Keepers of the Circle New York

[mikoa]

Does anyone have any information on this "Keepers of the Circle" group in Schnectendy, New York?  Apparently they have a museum, a few acres of land,and are doing "teachings"?  any info would be appreciated and thank you, Mikoa

[educatedindian]

Everything I found on a group called Keepers of the Circle Inc. in New York showed them working with prisoners and alcoholics, also some them with writings on sovereignty and Indian Law. Nothing questionable. I couldn't find any group specifically located in Schenectdaty (or any similar spelling).

What is it that concerns you?

[Scott Brainard]

Found numerous tourism references to them in Schenectady County, NY.

From http://www.johnnymilleradventures.com/cserie.htm

"Nature Walk and Museum Tour

    * Sat 10 am-12pm, Sun 2pm-4pm
    * Donations Accepted, Rotterdam Junction
    * American and Cultural Center and Museum
    * Native Keepers Of the Circle Inc, (518) 371-6582
    * vljphd@nycap.rr.com
    * Description: Guided nature walk to explore the flora and fauna along the Canal and Tour of the on site Museum. Stories will be told about history of this area and Native American Customs.
    * Driving directions:  Exit 26 Proceed west on Rt 5S approximately 2 miles on the right.
    * Group size max:  12-15
    * Handicap:  Yes
    * Pre registration:  Yes
    * Gear:  Good walking shoes"

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From http://www.parkerinn.com/schenectady-attractions.htm

"Situated on a 29-acre site on the South bank of the Mohawk River in Rotterdam Junction. The center presently houses a museum, gift shop and classrooms to educate the public about American Indian culture, languages, arts and crafts. Future plans for the Center include a nature trail, boat dock, an American Indian Restaurant and an open-air theater. (518) 887-2590 http://www.keepersofthecircle.com"

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The keepersofthecircle website goes to a registrar page.

[mikoa]

good evening......hope I am doing this response correctly-to "educatedindian", thank you for your response......my concern is that I heard that "Spotted Wolf" AKA "Spotted Eagle" AKA "Buck" AKA "Alan Champney" was currently involved with this group as a "teacher". This individual has a poor reputation in the Native community here in the East (NH, VT, CT, MA),am concerned that he is moving on now perhaps to New York state...

[educatedindian]

If Champney is involved that's definitely reason to be worried.

http://muse.jhu.edu/journals/wicazo_sa_review/v020/20.1smith.html
"Two Wolves" Smith and Alan Champney "Spotted Wolfe" were also charged for sexually abusing girls during supposed "cleansing" ceremonies."

This charity website lists him living in Stoddard New Hampshire.
http://www.savingtheinnocents.com/Those_Who_Are_Helping.php (1/2 of the way down)

And as part of his work with that charity he's around children quite a bit.
http://www.savingtheinnocents.com/Journal.php
"Her cousin Allen Champney, who lives a bit off course in Stoddard, NH,  insisted he bring them for a stay at his place, and he picked up Heather, Badger and Tux.  They had a wonderful overnight with them.  He is an elder in an Indian tribe (or a "Medicine Man" as we might call him).  His Indian name is "Spotted Wolf".   He gave Heather an Indian name.  We may now refer to her as "One Who Walks With the Animals".   As for Matt, he was astounded by what  Spotted Wolf perceived about Matt's life.  He gave him a "reading" via an otherworldly communication with past spirits."


Perhaps the best approach would be to contact Keepers of the Circle directly and ask about Champney. If he's part of them, I'm sure the local Chamber of Commerce and local tourism boards would not be too happy to find someone like him around children.

[trenes]

Re information on the Keepers of the Circle. A group of people have decided to "squat" on that property. One of the people is Alan Champney aka Spotted Wolf. If you are interested in the organization, please sit tight and wait until these people are removed from the property and things are worked out. The information listed in the previous post with the email vljphd etc. is current.