Legacy of the Kwaaymii.
"This is where they lived and where they died and where they still live on, as far as memory is concerned," Carmen said. "They should not be forgotten." Carmen Lucas, 2004.

Carmen Lucas Fire Relief Fund
Carmen Lucas, Kwaaymii Laguna Band of Mission Indians elder, has lost her home, most of her belongings, outbuildings, two horses, one cat and the property at Lucas Ranch has burned in the Cedar fire near Julian and Cuyamaca Rancho State Park. Remarkably, the historic Tom Lucas cabin remains, untouched. She did not want the word to get out prior to her entering the property, seeing the devastation for herself and giving offerings.
Since the fire update: *Update Article from Kumeyaay.com*
Carmen has temporarily moved into the cabin Tom Lucas built. The place had been empty for a number of years. Most of the utilities were inoperative especially the water system. Ben Nance, Webmaster americanindiansourse.com, has undertaken to replace the pump, supply line and storage tank of the water system from the spring. He has also replaced the water heater and fixed many of the leaks, plugs and oddities in the house that accumulate after a period of non-use.
Carmen has indicated she will see what she can do regarding rebuilding after this winter.
Carmen has been the caretaker of this ancestral land for over twenty years, serves on many cultural preservation boards and has fought for the protection of Native sacred places. A fund has been established in the effort to help Carmen Lucas rebuild her home and life, acquire clothes and other personal items, buy new furniture and other essential household items and to make necessary repairs on the Ranch.
Checks can be made out to the "Carmen Lucas Fire Relief Fund" and mailed to: California Bank & Trust Scripps/Poway Branch
10605 Scripps Poway Pkwy San Diego, CA 92131

Questions regarding this fund can be directed to Elisa Fitzgerald, Financial Services Representative, California Bank & Trust (858-621-7275).

Thanks to Indian Voices for publishing this notice.