DECEMBER 2023
WWW.OJIBWA.COM
ISSUE 14
KBIC NEWS
MANIDOO GIIZISOONS - LITTLE SPIRIT MOON
KBIC Primary Election Results: L'Anse District Votes, No Primary in Baraga L'Anse District community members voted in the primary election on Saturday, November 4, 2023 at the Zeba Hall. The top four candidates move on to the tribe's General Election. Primary Election Results for L'Anse District: Toni J. Minton: 62 Serent Gauthier: 40 Dale Goodreau: 44 Jerry Jondreau: 34 Gary Loonsfoot, Jr.: 30 Sam Loonsfoot: 49 Terri Swartz (Denomie): 22
PRESIDENT'S REPORT CEO'S CORNER MEET THE CANDIDATES ANISHINAABE DENTAL OUTREACH SPORTS HIGHLIGHTS SPORTS HIGHLIGHTS
Doreen Blaker, President Toni J. Minton, Vice President Elizabeth "Liz" Julio, Secretary Robert R.D. Curtis, Jr, Asst. Secretary Theodore "Austin" Ayres, Treasurer Eddy Edwards Everett Ekdahl, Jr. Sue Ellen Elmblad Randall Haataja Kim Klopstein Susan J. LaFernier Rodney Loonsfoot
Baraga District did not have a primary election. This was due
IN THIS ISSUE
2023 TRIBAL COUNCIL
to only four individuals submitting their names to the Tribal Council's Secretary for this year's election. All four individuals were approved as qualified candidates by Tribal Council, automatically advancing them to the General Election to be held on Saturday, December 16, 2023. Primary Election Results Associate Judge: Tashina Lee Emery: 129 Mark Smith: 112 Paul Smith: 50
for
The top two candidates move on to the General Election.
Office of the President Boozhoo Anin Gakina, For the month of November, the Tribal Council had five Special Meetings. The Tribal Council took action on the following items listed below. 11/01/2023 Special Meeting Approved the appointments of Matt Desrochers, Chris Swartz, Brent Waranka, Austin Ayres, Jeffrey Loman, Dylan Friisvall, David Madosh, Leann Tilson to the Natural Resources Committee. Approved a 3% employee raise for FY2024. Approved FY 2024 Budgets Approved the Ojibwa Casinos General Manager position description with changes. Approved the appointment of Beth Connor, Desiree Jermac, Gabrielle Picciano and Todd Pittsley to the Youth Committee
Approved the bid from Kleiman Pump and Well Drilling, Inc. to perform mechanical and chemical rehabilitation of Well 4 and Well 5 for the KBIC Natural Resources Department Cold Water Aquaculture facility in the amount of $71,900.00 as presented. 11/22/2022 – Special Meeting Suspended cultural leave policy pending further review effective November 22, 2023. Approved Resolution KB-064-2023 Land Acquisition. Approved Dr. Stevens FMV Lease Agreement for 15894 Marksman Rd. L’Anse MI. 11/29/2023 – Special Meeting
11/08/2023 – Special Meeting Amended the KBIC Personnel Policy to require approval of all cultural leave by both the employee’s supervisor and the CEO. Approved the bid from Michigan Technological University to perform research and analytics for PFAS in the tribal fishery as presented. Approved the sub-contractual agreement with ITC for the Mental Health and Delivery System for Native Americans as presented. Approved the sub-contractual agreement With ITC For Tribal Behavioral Health Implementation as presented. 11/15/2023 – Special Meeting Approved a donation to the Baraga County Shelter Home in the amount of $1,000.00. Approved the purchase of the 2023 Ford F-350 Super Duty 4WD Crew Cab truck from Bergstrom Ford in Green Bay for the amount of $70,839.80. Approved $100.00 Walmart Gift Cards for the Seniors, $100.00 Pines Gift Cards and $300.00 Christmas Bonus for employees. Approved the observed days off on December 22nd, 25th And 26th and for the 2023 Christmas holiday and days off on January 1st and 2nd for the New Year’s observed holiday. Approved a donation to Mark Soli in the amount of $1,000.00. Approved a donation in the amount of $500.00 for the Marquette fall feast.
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Approved the use of Spring 2024 2% funds in the amount of $25,469.00 for Baraga Area Schools Booster Club to purchase a 20-foot LED Crystal Series Scorekeepers Table with the provision of including free advertising for KBIC as discussed. Approved a donation for Dasan Hawkshield Smith in the amount of $2,500.00 for expenses related to participation in the All-American Bowl on December 21, 2023. Approved a donation of up to $6,500.00 to purchase 30 cushioned gymnasium sideline chairs with the KBIC logo for the L’Anse Area Schools sports programs. Approved KB-065-2023 Home Energy Rebate Program. Approved the Nurse Practitioner Employment Agreement with Shirley Courey. Approved the Tier IIB Agreement Kleiman Pump & Well Drilling, Inc. Approved the REI Services Agreement.
DECEMBER 2023
Office of the President
MANIDOO GIIZISOONS - LITTLE SPIRIT MOON
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CEO’s Corner December is here! It is hard to believe we are entering the last month of 2023. How do you feel your year went? Did you do everything you wanted to? Did you smash those goals you set in January or early ‘23? If not, you still have a little time to make some moves before we hit 2024. The updated website for KBIC was launched on November 20th! The different features you will see include: the updated Tribal Code feature, up to date and accessible Tribal Government information, the ability to know who is who within our Tribal Government leadership through up to date photos and contact information, our digital Newsletter and updated Events Calendar have their own pages, and last but not least you will notice more intention on our tribe and the story behind it. We provided meaning behind our brand seal, our values, and put a lot more focus on our culture. More upgrades to come include private access to the member portal and providing a place for Tribal Council meeting live streams. There is work on the back end to get this in motion so please be patient and understand the Community will be notified once this happens. For the month of November, I: Met with Woda Cooper Companies on the Black Rock Crossing development Attended a monthly update meeting with Johnson Controls, Inc. on the progress of our tribal building and facility improvements Held a Policy Review Workgroup meeting Attended the Baraga Schools Pow Wow Our housing development group (Housing, Marketing, SAP, CEO) met with OHM Advisors and Gundlach for a design review of the Baraga 40-acre development and to discuss the funding and future bidding status of the L’Anse 30-acre development.
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The CEO’s office met with our Business Service Specialists from the Baraga County Economic Development Corporation. We are working with them right now to identify tribal businesses and putting together a plan to provide resources and start meeting with the businesses and individuals to identify their needs. Held a Quarterly Department Head meeting Held an interview for a Director of Social Services candidate Attended a meeting with Syncurrent Attended a meeting about sponsorship of the 2024 Meijer State Games being held in Marquette Attended two meetings on the NTIA Broadband grant award funding with granting agency and officials Attended meeting with local DHS staff on utilizing MOU with Tribal Social Services and service assistance Attended meeting with Health Clinic staff to discuss program development opportunities for patients Met with staff from the US Endowment Fund and Keweenaw Community Foundation Met with Health Clinic, Tribal Court, and Police staff to discuss mental health grant funding and programming. Met with Baraga Telephone Company to discuss broadband grant Held individual monthly, weekly, and bi-weekly department update meetings throughout the month Attended four Tribal Council meetings Recent grant awards include: We were recently notified of a $500,000 grant award from the Michigan Health Endowment Fund for a Healthy Aging at Home for Tribal Elders project. This grant will address the limited home health support options for tribal elders in Baraga and Marquette counties by launching a culturally responsive at-home program with key community partners. This initiative will benefit over 1,200 Tribal Elders. KBIC is a recipient of Round 2 funding ($500,000) for the Tribal Broadband Connectivity Program. This Broadband Infrastructure Deployment project
DECEMBER 2023
CEO's Corner involves construction work extending nearby mainline existing fiber optic cable infrastructure to the premises and making additions to the network electronics at the nearest locations to serve the premises with FTTP technology. This will cover our Zeba housing development and associated homes and buildings in the area. Our partner on this project is Baraga Telephone. Below is a link to the press release. https://broadbandusa.ntia.doc.gov/news/latestnews/biden-harris-administration-announces-over744-million-internet-all-grants-tribal Government offices are closed Friday, December 22nd, Monday, December 25th, and Tuesday, December 26th for the Christmas holiday. Normal hours of operation resume Wednesday, December 27th to Friday, December 29th. We will then be closed Monday, January 1st and Tuesday, January 2nd for the New Year holiday. Here is your annual mental health check-in for the holiday season. The end of the year always seems to fly by, especially as the holiday season goes into full effect. Remember to “check-in” with yourself every once in a while, and not get so overwhelmed with the hustle and bustle that the holidays can create. It should ultimately be about spending time with loved ones and enjoying those little moments of joy before a brand-new year. If you are feeling stressed, here a few tips to consider to de-stress: Get some fresh air – step outside and take a deep breath! The coldness of the air will bring some energy and focus. Exercise! Go for a walk or do a quick stretch – anything to get those endorphins flowing! Take some time to yourself. It is ok to say no. Reach out to others! If being alone isn’t your thing, talk to someone or make plans with an old friend or family member you have been meaning to catch up with. Breathe. Relax and do some breathing exercises or practice mindfulness, it is sure to settle your brain and heart to get you back on the path to a more present you. Wishing everyone a safe and healthy holiday season, Brigitte
MANIDOO GIIZISOONS - LITTLE SPIRIT MOON
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Meet the Candidates
Baraga District Doreen Blaker Boozhoo Tribal Members, My name is Doreen Blaker, and it has been a privilege to serve on the Tribal Council as a Baraga District representative for the past three years. Background - I am the mother of five children and the grandmother to nine grandchildren. My educational background includes a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Social Science from Michigan Technology University and a Masters in Jurisprudence in Indian Law (MJIL) from the University of Tulsa College of Law. I have worked for the Tribe for nearly 30 years, served on various committees, and enjoy volunteering for community events and activities. Tribal Sovereignty is self-governance and the ability to create and enforce our laws within our territories. We exercise self-governance by managing our natural resources and creating tribal programs and services. KBIC utilizes selfgovernance to strengthen our cultural identity through language revitalization, powwows, and traditional teachings. Treaty Rights- Protection of our treaty rights and preservation of our natural resources is a cultural teaching that we have all been taught. Water is life, and we are connected to the land. Treaties enable us to create and maintain our tribal economy. It is important that we continue to work on ordinances that protect our treaty resources. Enterprises- Our tribal enterprises are recovering from the pandemic that affected the nation three years ago. The casinos have been renovated, phase two to develop an RV park in Marquette has commenced, and the motel planning is still
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underway. The C-stores are doing well, and we are developing a business plan for the former BP. Closing it wasn't easy; however, we will not jeopardize our water with an outdated fuel system. All businesses are expected to address any shortcomings seen in the previous year and will be monitored by the Council. Our People- We continue to invest in our youth and care for our elders with programs to improve their physical, spiritual, mental, and emotional wellbeing. This can be achieved through cultural and language teachings, expanding health services and educational opportunities. Our Needs- Substance abuse is a problem that needs a multifaceted approach. We need prevention programs for our youth and long-term programs to help tribal members suffering from substance abuse. Housing plans are being designed for an apartment building to help address the shortage of rental units, and infrastructure projects are being developed in both L’Anse & Baraga for potential homeowners looking to build. Transparency is a practice being done throughout the year. There are monthly reports from the CEO and President's Office in the monthly tribal newsletter. Our Indigenous Insights radio host has interviewed the Directors/Managers of tribal departments, the CEO, and the Tribal President to get updated information to the membership via social media sites. The Tribal Treasurer reported on the Tribe’s financial status by creating a "financial snapshot" and mailing it to the membership in their GWSP checks. Next year, the membership can log on to a "members only" site on the new KBIC website where all members can view the budget process. I enjoy being on the Tribal Council and take my role seriously. I appreciate the various perspectives and skills within our community that work together for the many goals we set in order to preserve, strengthen and prepare our Tribe for the future. Serving the KBIC for the past three years has been an honor. I am respectfully requesting your support to continue serving the community for another term.
DECEMBER 2023
Meet the Candidates
Baraga District Robert “RD” Curtis My Journey, Our Progress: R.D. Robert D. Curtis Jr. for Tribal Council Greetings to my KBIC community, I am R.D. Robert D. Curtis Jr., and I stand before you as a product of our heritage, a bearer of our traditions, and a dedicated advocate for our progress. As a member of the Bear Clan, I draw strength from the teachings of my family and friends. Their wisdom and support have shaped my commitment to serve our community with unwavering dedication and integrity. My life story speaks to the resilience that defines us. Overcoming personal trials, I've proudly celebrated 32 years of sobriety, a testament to the power of transformation and perseverance. At KBICSAP-Outpatient Dept, I've dedicated over two decades to serving us. I've poured my heart into educating and protecting our community, believing deeply in shaping a brighter future for us all. My family, the cornerstone of my life, has been a constant source of support. Helen M. Jondreau, my partner of over three decades, has stood by my side. Our sons, Ty D. Curtis and Robert James Curtis, embody the values I hold dear, fostering a legacy of resilience and tradition. Beyond personal commitments, I cherish our traditions and our land. Fishing, hunting, and the traditional harvest of "SAP" connect me deeply to our culture and our natural heritage. Running for Tribal Council, I'm a committed advocate for meaningful change. I champion the implementation of a long-awaited Code of Ethics, essential for fostering accountability and transparency within our governance. Moreover, I strongly support the will of our people, echoing the resounding call for term limits expressed in the December 2019 vote. My name, Kewatasay - Spirits All Around, symbolizes our shared spirit, resilience, and
MANIDOO GIIZISOONS - LITTLE SPIRIT MOON
dedication to our community's well-being and progress. My candidacy represents the unwavering determination and enduring strength that define us as a people. As I continue this journey, I ask for your continued support for the Baraga District Miigs. Join me as we embark on this journey together, toward a future that honors our past and paves the way for our generations to come.
Baraga District Alden “Auddie” Connor Boozhoo, my name is Alden Connor JR, my anishnabe name is Baibom Geshick which means “Thunderbird that travels in the sky” I belong to the Migizi (Eagle Clan). I am 52 years young and the son of Frances “Chosa” Drift and the late Lester Drift JR. I lived in Zeba most of my life and now reside in Baraga with my wife and my four younger children. I have eight siblings, eight children and six grandchildren. I spend most of my time with my children teaching them the stories of our people, dance regalia, coaching them in basketball and other sports. I work for KBIC as THPO and I am the Cultural Director. I am attending Keweenaw Bay Ojibwa Community College for a degree in Anishinaabe studies. I have been singing on the drum for 35+ years. I sing for ceremonies and powwows. My family and I are big on dancing and singing. We travel to powwows across the United States and Canada for big drum ceremonies, contests and traditional. I am fortunate enough to have grown up with the teachings, history, ceremonies stories and the ways
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Meet the Candidates of our Ojibwe people. I believe it is important not only to continue to practice but, to learn and bring back more of our teachings, language and ceremonies for our community. I know our community was once rich with Anishinaabe culture and I would love to see us there again as a whole. I was always told us Anishinaabe have to walk and be strong in two worlds! The one we came from and the one we live in today. To never forget who we are and our old ways but also to be strong in today’s world. We as a community need to find and keep that balance for us, our children, their children and their children’s children The reason I have decided to run for a seat on tribal council is my whole family lives here on the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community reservation. This is where I come from and where my ancestors come from. I feel it is my duty not only to protect it but, to help it flourish. Miigwech.
Baraga District Zelina L. Pittsley-Huhta My name is Zena (Pittsley) Huhta. I am an enrolled member of the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community (#4220) and have resided my whole life on the
how we learn and gather needed knowledge to address whatever issues face us in our community or our own lives. I also have been taking classes in Anishinaabe studies to learn the history of our people. BRAVERY-I know I have years more to learn and am willing to continue to gather knowledge so that I may use this in serving our people and our community. LOVE-We need to unite and work together not against each other. RESPECT- We need to support all departments within our tribe and help them to succeed. When these departments succeed the whole community benefits from this. WISDOM-Listen to our Elders and give them back a voice in the community I see the services that are much needed in our community - health care in home for our elders, More activities for our youth. I mentor youth through my work and this is the foundation of the future. (Next Seven Generations) Programs for our seniors/elders to participate in and keep them active. I also see many of our businesses that need change in order to provide better services to their patrons. TRUTH-I want fairness for all tribal members from employment to the services they are able to receive. HONESTY- I am running because I have lived here my whole life and watched closely what has been going on. I see what has worked and what is not working. HUMILITY- I want to again be a voice for the people. I feel that helping others in our community is the most gratifying thing one can do in life. It is not what one has but what one can do to help others that is the ultimate gift.
Baraga Reservation. I currently work for the KBIC NRD as the Lake Superior Program Coordinator under the Great Lakes Resources Department. I have attended NMU, Gogebic Community College, Michigan Technological University and our very own Keweenaw Bay Ojibwa Community College where I have obtained two Associate degrees, one in Liberal Studies, one in Business Administration. I am currently working on my Associate of Science Degree in Environmental Science. I feel that education is
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DECEMBER 2023
Meet the Candidates
L’Anse District Toni J. Minton Boozhoo KBIC Members, I am Toni Jo Minton from the L’Anse District. My Anishinaabe name is Geshiganungokwe and I am from the Migizi Clan. I am the daughter of Beverly and the late Adam Lussier, and the late James Minton. My grandparents were the late Evelyn and Ernie Holappa of Zeba. I am the mother of 2 daughters Danika and Hope. I am also blessed with 5 grandsons who are the joy of my life! I grew up traveling back and forth between Zeba, Boulder, Colorado and Red Lake, Minnesota. I moved back home permanently in 1989. I attended 3 years of college at the University of MinnesotaDuluth majoring in accounting. I also have a certificate from the Bay Mills Community College in Anishnaabemowin Immersion program. I worked for the Ojibwa Casino in the late 90’s early 2000’s as a Blackjack Dealer. I then worked for the KBIC for 6 years as a bookkeeper and then a Payroll Clerk. Next, I worked for the Baraga Correctional Facility for 27 years in their Accounting Department. I retired from there in March 2023 and I am now working for the KBIC in the Accounts Payable department.
Much has been accomplished during my tenure. We built a new casino in Marquette, renovated the resort in Baraga, built the Zeba Hall, built 2 cannabis dispensaries, bought a Marquette radio station, started a contest pow wow in Marquette, added a Pharmacy to our clinic, we continue to pursue our land claims in DC, we partnered with Golden Nugget for online gaming, we offer a $5,000 life insurance policy for all enrolled members, just to name a few. In the future, I would like to see a hotel waterpark built near our Marquette Casino and our cannabis grow up and running and supplying our dispensaries. I offer integrity, stability and experience. We strive to provide transparency to our membership. Our meetings are live streamed, we have a monthly newsletter, in which the Presidents lists all actions taken by Council, we have an official KBIC Facebook page and an updated KBIC website will be available soon. It will also include a Members Portal! I strive to ensure financial stability for the Tribe. We have had excellent independent audits for 20 years in the Government and 30 years at the Casino. Our audits are reviewed by the Federal Audit Clearinghouse and the National Indian Gaming Commission. With responsible budgeting, spending and saving we can ensure the present and future of our Tribe. Preserving our culture is very important to me. I volunteer at our Traditional Clinic each month. The next clinic will be held December 16-17 at the Cultural Center in Baraga. The Culture Committee will also be hosting a Midwinter Pow Wow on January 27 at the Niwiin Akea gym in Baraga. I humbly ask for your vote at the December 16 General Election. Miigwech!
In 2005 I was appointed to the Tribal Council when Council Member Ann Misegan passed away. I have been serving on the Council every year since, except 2014. I have served on the Executive Board as Treasurer, Secretary, Assistant Secretary and this year as the Vice-President. It has been an honor and a privilege to serve our community! I am currently a member of the Culture Committee. In the past I have served on the Enrollment Board, ICWA Committee, Pow Wow Committee, and the Title VII Committee.
MANIDOO GIIZISOONS - LITTLE SPIRIT MOON
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Meet the Candidates
L’Anse District Serene Gauthier Boozhoo, My name is Serene Gauthier Migizi Kwe (Eagle Woman) and I’m currently the Environmental Response Program Specialist for KBIC Natural Resources Department. My duties in this capacity involve addressing both historic and contemporary contamination on the reservation and within our ceded territory. My job responsibilities include remediation of illegal open dumps, brownfields sites and spill response. I work closely with state and federal agencies that have provided some great opportunities to the tribal community. Discharging my responsibilities that are necessary to protect our land for future generations to come is both rewarding and enlightening. Prior to obtaining my associates degree from Ojibwa Community College in 2016 I spent sixteen years in the Indian gaming industry and several other customer service jobs. I intend to use this experience to improve our businesses. I currently serve on the Housing Grievance Board, Waste Advisory Board, and the Culture Committee. I also volunteer in the kitchen at funerals, feasts and KBIC children’s parties. These involvements have helped me work in a group setting that have helped me make decisions resulting in better health and quality of life for our tribal community. As a young single mom at 16 I was unable to finish my education in the traditional manner because my children came first. Now that my kids are grown I’ve developed an appreciation for learning. I’m currently enrolled at Northern Michigan University part time and expect graduate with my bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science and Sustainability in 2024. This journey takes sacrifice, time management, and dedication. I believe that this new-found self-discipline and acquired problem solving skills makes me a perfect candidate to serve the people of the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community.
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Goals Fairness, decisions based on data and not who some tribal members are favored or related to Preserve and implement more access to language and culture We have many tribal businesses that members work tirelessly for, I believe if we have private shoppers we could access data and make improvements that will excel our tribal economy, working with employees not against them by creating incentive programs for those employees that will help excel our tribal businesses Improve our elderly and youth programs, I have spoken with these age groups and see the need to fill in these gaps Promote food security utilizing the community garden and practicing treaty rights Blood quantum is an issue, not with just our tribe but other tribal nations this needs to be looked into and find solutions My work experience, education, my selfless commitment to the community, resiliency, cultured ways of life are a valuable asset that will help me serve effectively on tribal council. Please feel free to contact me to chat or ask questions (906) 201-2007 I’m humbly asking for your support for the upcoming election on December 16, 2023. It will be an honor to be the voice for the tribal community to have everyone as an equal. Let’s make this community thrive financially, physically and culturally. Miigwech
DECEMBER 2023
Meet the Candidates
Associate Judge Tashina Emery Boozhoo, neighbor! My name is Tashina Emery, and I am currently the acting appointed Associate Judge for the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community Tribal Court. Clearing of the sky cloud woman. Misanaquadikwe, in Ojibwa, is my spirit name—the one who can clear a cloudy day. I am the daughter of Jeanne Emery. My mother and my current position teaching as the Liberal Studies Department Chair at our Tribal Keweenaw Bay Ojibwe Community College empowered my urgency to assist my people. I have always tried to find a space where people needed me most. I stepped up when my community needed another Judge in our Judicial Branch. I am interested in continuing to serve our community and acting as the Associate Judge. I would be honored to get the chance to support our people impartially and unbiasedly. My qualifications: I obtained my Bachelor’s of Art & Design from the University of Michigan in 2015. Then, I received my Master in Art and Public Policy from New York University while living in New York City for two years, always returning home to work for my people. Upon teaching at the KBOCC, I earned my second Masters in Creative Writing by attending the Tribal College Institute of American Indian Arts, which I graduated in May of 2022. My clan is of the Turtle, the knowledge keepers, the intellectuals, and the lawmakers. They are responsible for mediation, justice, and law-making. The turtle clan brings consensus and resolution to conflicts. They assist with decisions if there are disagreements between clans. Like the Earth, the turtle clan represents roots, growth, and stability. My Accomplishments As the actively appointed Associate Judge for the past five and a half months,
MANIDOO GIIZISOONS - LITTLE SPIRIT MOON
I have studied intensely under the Honorable Chief Judge Violet M. Friisvall Ayres. I have been running the Healing to Wellness Court as the Healing to Wellness Judge, coordinating a team of stakeholders and community steerers. I have recently attended the Healing to Wellness Court conference in Bar Harbor, Maine. This informative conference confirmed that our Tribal court is in a good place and moving in a good way with our Healing to Wellness Court. We already have had one graduate in my time on the bench and four participants working on their recovery and rehabilitation. This is the best part of my work at the court. I get to build a support system for those whose trauma has created unhealthy choices, and our team gets to ask them to try again, building their confidence in their community and finding their self-motivation to not give up. Hurt resonates, but love and care ripple. We look for progress for our participants every day, not perfection. Our team has been very adaptive and encouraging the new culturally integrated programming we are adding. I dream of further celebrating our past, present, and future graduates and all the success stories in between. Each and every accomplishment matters in recovery. Although, I have been very busy reinvigorating the Healing to Wellness Court, during its weekly on and off sessions. I also have eleven active criminal cases, ensuring defendant and community safety throughout the full court process. I have had five sentenced and resolved cases requiring compliance and accountability. I currently have four civil cases. I have one case that went to the appellate court, for which I have written an unofficial opinion if they request. Writing my first opinion was very educational, and I used and cited case law pertinent to KBIC. All of this was accomplished during my five months with the Tribal Court. I am so appreciative of the entire court staff and to be working with an amazing entity protecting our people and their rights. I have been soaking up everything I can learn from Chief Judge Ayres, the visiting and partnering attorneys, visiting other jurisdictions and ensuring to actively listen to our people's needs for healing. As current Professor Emery and appointed Associate Judge Emery, I am a connector, connecting our people to what they need to survive and heal. I am asking my people to allow me to continue to do my work and enhance our people's health and safety through the Judicial Branch. My mission is always to serve my people.
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Meet the Candidates My Priorities Inspire future Nation Builders Protect our land and our people's rights Create healthy & safe interventions as well as cultural preventions for our community Strengthen Tribal, Local, State, Federal, & Indian Country partnerships Teach our people their inherent sovereignty The Creator may have given me the darkest of skies and the loudest of thunders because I am strong enough to handle them. Clearing of the sky cloud woman. Misanaquadikwe. VOTE TASHINA EMERY GENERAL ELECTION SATURDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2023 in the Baraga and L’Anse District
Associate Judge Mark Smith Hello, My name is Mark Smith and I am seeking your vote in the upcoming general election for Associate Judge. I feel I should give you some history of who I am and where I come from. Sarah Smith is my mother and Judy Smith is my Grandmother. I graduated from Baraga High School in May of 2008. I then decided to join the Military as an infantryman in August of 2008. I served 4 years of active duty in the ARMY as a parachute infantryman and did two tours to Afghanistan during that time. I returned from the Military in August 2012 and went to the National Guard until August of 2020. During my time in the National Guard, I worked as a Pharmacy Technician at the Tribal Health Clinic for two years, from 2016 to 2018. In 2018, I applied to the Tribal Police Department and began working for Tribal Police in June. I have been working for Tribal Police since then. As a Veteran, I hope to bring some core values from the Military to our courtroom. Values such as Honor, Integrity, Personal Courage, Respect, Duty, Selfless Service and Loyalty. I believe our tribe could benefit greatly from a change of perspective. I implore each of you to go out and vote come Election Day. Thank you for your time and consideration!
Respectfully, Mark Smith
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DECEMBER 2023
Special Feature Family elk hunt shines a light on Ojibwe Values By Charlie Otto Rasmussen, Mazina’igan The phone call came as a revelation for the Brown family; their name was drawn following a lottery for a ceremonial bull omashkooz har vest permit in the Wisconsin Ceded Territory. “What an honor. What a blessing for our family to be chosen,” said Keweenaw Bay Indian Community citizen Kristin Brown. Wisconsin treaty elk (omashkooz) tags are very limited. Only four bull harvest permits in the Clam Lake Zone have been available to 10 GLIFWC member bands on an annual basis in recent years. Experienced deer hunters, Kristin and husband Scott swung into action planning what they saw as an opportunity of lifetime for their family, she said. The Ojibwe elk camp at Chippewa Lake, Wis was a 13-hour drive from their Lower Michigan home. The youngest two children would stay with Kristin’s parents in Baraga—dropped off enroute—while the boys aged 10, 12, and 14 rounded out the elk hunting crew. But first, there were school teachers to consult, coaches to inform, and camping gear to assemble. Plans fell into place and the Brown’s rolled into camp deep in the Chequa megon-Nicolet National Forest along with other tribal groups in time for the opening ceremony and hunter orientation on Friday September 22. GLIFWC wardens reviewed hunting regulations, biologists laid-out health sampling pro tocols for harvested animals, and Ojibwe groups from across the Ceded Territory drew up plans to fan out in the vast northern forest where mix-aged timber stands
of pine, popple, and hardwoods produced a mosaic of browse and cover favorable to elk. “At first, we’d see [elk] cows whenever we went out. One time they were right next to road,” Brown said. “We shared camp with other family groups from Lac du Flambeau. We traded information about where we saw animals.” The Lac du Flambeau hunters also included sameage boys as the Browns; before long, breaks from hunting evolved into pick-up football games between Flambeau and KB kids in the roughchopped grass at camp. Kids scooted down a rutted two-track road to kayak and fish in Chippewa Lake. The atmosphere at camp was outstanding, Brown said.And then it happened. Back in the wilds, near dusk on the third evening, the Browns worked their way along the edge of a permanent forestopening managed by the US Forest Service. Their pick-up truck was just up ahead along a primitive road. But before they could get there, four elk stepped into the opening, led by a 4X5 bull. The eldest boy, Scottie Brown, took a single shot. “It dropped on the spot,” Brown said. “Just wow. A pretty exciting thing for all of us. We’ve deer hunted plenty, but never hunted anything as big as elk before. Took over three hours to field dress it. Everybody was elbow deep.” A few days later, the Brown family shared their experience in-person with the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community tribal council in Baraga. “Hunting an elk for several communities was a huge honor, to be able to provide ceremonial meat for many people—people my children haven’t even met. The biggest gift was being able to give. That’s what our people are about: giving and sharing and helping,” Brown said. Most of the meat from the hunt is managed by GLIFWC staff for process ing and intertribal distribution in the new year. For the Browns, they returned to Lower Michigan with a pair of tenderloins and held a family feast for the boys and the bull elk that made itself available to them. “It wasn’t a trophy hunt, there was real meaning and real purpose behind the whole thing,” she said. “That made it special.”
Reprinted with permission Mazina’igan, Great Lakes Commisison https://glifwc.org/
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Indian
&
Wildlife
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Around the Community
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DECEMBER 2023
Current Job Postings
https://www.kbocc.edu/employment/openings/ MANIDOO GIIZISOONS - LITTLE SPIRIT MOON
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Around the Community
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DECEMBER 2023
Around the Community
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Around the Community
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DECEMBER 2023
Tribal Court Christian's Triumph: A Celebration of Recovery and Renewal with Healing to Wellness Court The Healing to Wellness Court celebrated Christian on November 21st, 2023 marking a beautiful new beginning in his recovery journey. Healing to Wellness program is an intensive probation, stricter then regular probation to prepare participants to thrive in our community. The Healing to Wellness court is comprised of a Healing to Wellness Team of diverse perspectives from our community from housing to police to outpatient. We provide the holistic healing from all avenues, sharing a full source of comprehensive services for any person entering the justice system for crimes committed due to substance use disorders. Some services our people, the participants have not had access too or had in a long time, by providing case management, peer recovery, therapies, inpatient/outpatient treatment, placement in permanent supportive housing, reintegration back into the community– a full on wrap around service approach to address recovery. Our team's goal is to restore adverse effects of addiction, broken relationships and try to come to mutual understandings and finding accountability to thrive. Christian's ceremony was well deserved with 18 months in the program focusing on his healing, sobriety and wellbeing. He put in the work. He completed 4 intensive phases of homework, receiving incentives for good actions and sanctions for concerns. He stuck it out readjusting his priorities, we couldn't be more proud of him. His sponsor said it correctly, "it doesn't end here, now the real work begins." We gave Christian with many tools and a support system as he continues through recovery.
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Health System
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DECEMBER 2023
Elders
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Education Baraga County Schools Release First Marking Period Honor Roll Baraga and L'Anse Area Schools have issued the grades for the first marking period of the 2023-24 school year. We congratulate the KBIC students who achieved honor roll, perfect attendance, or both. Keep up the excellent work!
Perfect Attendance C. J. Sullivan Elementary School
9th Grade Matthew Stein Autumn Durant
Kindergarten Xavier DeCota
10th Grade Keyden Goodbird Jaycee Maki
1st Grade Brody Voakes Malachi DeCota
11th Grade Dallas Moulden
2nd Grade Kennadie Forcia Khloe LeClaire 3rd Grade Drayden Forcia 4th Grade Sadie Voakes Kaylee Forcia Izaiah DeCota Dusk Bolo 5th Grade Hunter Picard Derek Dix Brady Curtis
Perfect Attendance L'Anse Jr/Sr High School 6th Grade Jordan Ekdahl Nathan Friisvall Navaeh Fish 7th Grade Alice Curtis Iziah Friisvall 8th Grade Breyelle Bowers Payton LeClaire Princess Pierre
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12th Grade Kiera Dakota
11th Grade Rayleigh Jacobs Dallas Moulden
Honor Roll Philip LaTendresse Elementary School
12th Grade Keira Dakota
4th Grade Reed Geroux Jacob Jokela
Perfect Attendance Philip LaTendresse Elementary School
5th Grade Kruze Ekdahl Aaliyah Loonsfoot
1st Grade Aleah Chosa Dalyla Francois
Honor Roll Baraga Jr/Sr High School
2nd Grade Kroy Ekdahl Jadyn Lauritsen 3rd Grade Austin Shelifoe 5th Grade Kruze Ekdahl Chayton Johnson Aaliyah Loonsfoot
6th Grade Adrianna Kyllonen Kadynce Loonsfoot Bently VanDyke Kevin McIntyre 7th Grade Madyson Evans 8th Grade Aiyanna Gauthier Caleb Smith
Honor Roll C.J. Sullivan Elementary School
Perfect Attendance Baraga Jr/Sr High School
9th Grade Noah Evans Layla Loonsfoot
4th Grade Sadie Voakes
6th Grade Dante Gauthier Adriana Kyllonen Kadynce Loonsoot
10th Grade Benjamin Ekdahl Jayla Isaacson
5th Grade Derek Dix Martin John
Honor Roll L'Anse Jr/Sr High School 6th Grade Xander Seppanen Nevaeh Fish 7th Grade Kiera Dix Michael Delih Iziah Friisvall
9th Grade Noah Evans 11th Grade Rylee Holm 12th Grade Destin Gauthier Kamrin Kahkonen Tyler Dakota
11th Grade Rylee Holm Jalisa Health 12th Grade Christina Anderson Dhanya Ekdahl Kamrin Kahkonen Darious Loonsfoot O’Dell Loonsfoot Thomas Rasanen
8th Grade Breyelle Bowers Payton LeClaire Anen Maki Princess Pierre 9th Grade Willow Rexford
DECEMBER 2023
Anishnaabe Dental Outreach International Day of Disabilities in December
Persons
with
December 3 is recognized as the IDPD, but let’s emphasize excellent dental care for these folks for the entire month of December. Disabled people include: Aging and elderly people Individuals with mobility issues Mentally disabled individuals Physically impaired folks People with behavioral or emotional conditions Those cognitively impaired Dental care for Persons with Disabilities starts in infancy.The care giver is instrumental in preventing dental problems. A visit to the dentist should take place as soon as the first tooth appears, between 6 and 12 months old. This is the time for caregivers to ask questions. The dental team will help with dietary tips and will teach the caregiver how to care for the teeth at home. Starting these practices early and consistently will prevent severe dental disease.
Excellent dental health enhances the quality of life and improves the overall health of all people in so many ways: Healthy food intake Speech development Emotional expression Comfort and psychological ease Patient acceptance of oral touching and manipulation Here are some tips to improve daily home care are: Use a power toothbrush with a small head if possible. Or a manual toothbrush with a large or modified handle and a floss holder can make brushing and flossing easier. If possible, use fluoride toothpaste and mouth rinse to prevent tooth decay and strengthen the enamel. For patients who cannot tolerate toothpaste, try diluting an acceptable mouth rinse and dip the toothbrush in that. Sometimes plain water is okay to use. Avoid sugary foods that can damage the teeth
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These patients should be offered only water or milk to drink. Drink plenty of water to keep the mouth moist and wash away food particles. ·Fun routines are beneficial.A few ideas include singing or counting during brushing; allowing a choice of the flavor of the toothpaste to be used. Always compliment when done with a hearty “Good job!” ·Here are positions which often are easier for cleaning another’s teeth: “hygiene in a Highchair,” “knee-to-knee” and laying a “swaddled baby: onto a soft rug with the caregiver behind the head. ·Clean the teeth in the same manner and at the same time and place every day. ·Model excellent oral hygiene yourself. If the patient is able to understand, do prepare the person for an upcoming dental visit. There are fun books to read about the dental office. Talk repeatedly about how nice the dental team is and explain that you yourself enjoy and like the dental team. Visit the office first, to make sure there is easy access into and out of the office. Ask the dental team if the disabled person can visit the reception area a few times. Just sit there and read or color with the child, to familiarize the person with the dental office. Ask the dental team to talk to the patient without a mask and white coats and goggles for a few minutes. Ask the dental team if the patient can visit “the back” and listen to the sounds of the office.
Schedule disabled patients for the first appointment of the day if possible. Early appointments can help ensure that everyone is alert and attentive and that waiting time is reduced. At the actual dental appointment, make sure that comfortable and loose clothing is worn.If there is a comforting blanket or toy, be sure to bring that along. Before the actual appointment, repeatedly tell the patient what will be happening, step by step. There are many books available about visiting the dentist. Before any appointment, determine how the patient will be transferred from wheelchair to dental chair.It is recommended that familiar adults do so.
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Anishnaabe Dental Outreach Providing dental care to individuals with disabilities does require increased awareness, attention and accommodation by the dentist and dental staff. Here are some of the things that the dental team might do: Emphasizing preventative measures such as fluoride varnishes, more frequent dental cleanings, and sealants. Consultation with other health care providers. An example of accommodation would be sugarfree medicines. The caregiver might be asked how to communicate with patients who have a sensory impairment. Patient accommodations. Behavior management techniques used at home can often be transferred to the dental office. Modifications to routine treatment procedures Placing pillows from home on both sides of the patient can provide stability. Shorter appointment times may be recommended. These require extra trips to the dental office.
https://social.desa.un.org/issues/disability/events/in ternational-day-of-persons-with-disabilities-idpd2022#:~:text=The%20annual%20observance%20of %20the%20International%20Day%20of,dignity%2 C%20rights%20and%20wellbeing%20of%20persons%20with%20disabilitie International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD) 2022 | Division for Inclusive Social Development (DISD) (un.org) Stay Strong, Jessica A. Rickert, DDS, Anishinaabe Dental Outreach 231-313-8407, jrickert@deltadentalmi.com jarickert@charter.net
Most general dentists will provide excellent care in their offices for all ages and abilities. Speak to your own dentist first. Sometimes there will be a referral to specialists. These include: Pedodontists for children Hospital dentists The University of Michigan School Of Dentistry Integrated Special Care Clinic We want disabled people to have the highest quality of life and overall health as possible. Therefore, let’s control those areas of our lives we can to enhance these goals. Excellent dental health is a good place to start.
https://penndentalmedicine.org/patientinformation/dentist-for-special-needs/peoplewith-disabilities-accessing-dental-care/ https://www.nidcr.nih.gov/sites/default/files/201709/practical-oral-care-intellectual-care.pdf https://www.yourdentistryguide.com/specialneeds/
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DECEMBER 2023
Around the Community
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Around the Community
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DECEMBER 2023
Sports The Smith Brothers Shine: Marquette Football Season Concludes with Top Honors and Future Pathways
as his sights set on going to college, is keeping his options open. When asked if he’ll play for Central as well, Talon stated, “Sure, I’ll play. But if I get an offer with a Big Ten, I think I might leave my brother in the dust”. However, Talon did say it would be cool to play alongside his brother again as he has attended several visits to Central Michigan with Dasan and the family.
That’s a wrap! The 2023 Marquette Football Season is over and the coaches, along with the UP Sportswriters and Sportscasters have made their decision on this year’s awards. “The Smith Brothers” have made the cut! The coaches for the Marquette Football program announced during their 3rd annual sports banquet that Talon Smith, (Jr) was recognized as their most improved player, and Dasan Smith (Sr) was recognized as their team's lineman of the year. On Wednesday, November 8th, 2023, the members of the All-UP Sportswriters and Sportscasters Association met and announced their selection of players to receive awards. A special award went to Dasan for receiving the Mitchell Snyder All-UP Lineman of the Year. Dasan was also selected for the Offensive Tackle All-UP Dream Team and AllState for Defense. Efforts by Talon were recognized as he received All-UP special mention for Offensive Guard. Additionally, on November 15th, the Big North Conference announced its awards, Marquette Football finished 2nd overall, and Dasan made All-Conference Offensive Line and Defensive Line, Talon achieved All-Conference Offensive Line. The football team made its first playoff appearance in over a decade, something their coach Eric Mason said, “It was great and upsetting all at once not being able to go the distance.” However, as the coaching staff explained how they are rebuilding the program, having Dasan and Talon side by side created an unique excitement that kept everyone on their toes, whether if they had good plays, or if one brother missed a block, the other brother was sure to make him aware. Dasan has committed to play Division-1 football at Central Michigan University next fall, and he will be signing his scholarship agreement later in December. Dasan also has the honor of representing the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community in this year’s Indigenous Bowl taking place in Soboba California. Talon, even though he h
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Sports
Jax Geroux of the 7th grade Baraga Vikings basketball team.
Easton is a Freshman on the Bay College Men’s Basketball team. Bay College is apart of the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) and currently ranked 1st in the Northern Conference of the Michigan Community College Athletic Association (MCCAA). The Norse began their season on November 3rd. Action shot from the Lindquist Classic held in Ironwood, MI on 11/25/23. Photo credit: RRNsports.com
Jax Geroux (center) of the 7th grade Baraga Vikings basketball team.
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DECEMBER 2023
Sports
Zoongide’ Rantanen, Keweenaw Bay Cougars 10u player, all smiles after his first hat trick of the season on December 3, 2023.
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Youth from L’Anse Middle School participated in a Middle School State Championship qualifying tournament in Gladstone, Michigan, on December 3. The team secured their invite to the State tournament in March, taking home first place. KBIC Youth included in the back row from left to right: Kwynn Voskuhl, Breyelle Bowers, Princess Pierre, and Alice Curtis. Front row from left to right: Payton LeClaire, Dalanna Connor, and Alayna Kinnuen.
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Around the Community
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DECEMBER 2023
Ojibwa Casino Promotions
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A low-interest, 30-year fixed mortgage (a fixed mortgage means your interest rate will stay the same over the full life of the loan). The current VA interest rate for NADLs starts at 2.5%. To find out what your interest rate will be, contact an NADL coordinator by email at NADL@va.gov or by phone at 888-349-7541 (TTY: 711). We’re here Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. ET.