The Keweenaw Bay Ojibwe (2018)

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WIIKWEDONG

DAZHI-OJIBWE

The Keweenaw Bay Ojibwe

Waabigwani Giizis – Flower Moon - May 2018

Keweenaw Bay Indian Community Tobacco Committee (KBICTC) and

Asemaa Wholesale and Distribution Company Grand Opening Held

Issue 166

Tribal Council Members:

Warren C. Swartz, Jr., President

Jennifer Misegan, Vice-President

Susan J. LaFernier, Secretary

Toni J. Minton, Asst. Secretary

Doreen G. Blaker, Treasurer

Robert R.D. Curtis, Jr.

Frederick Dakota

Randall R. Haataja

Michael F. LaFernier, Sr.

Gary F. Loonsfoot, Jr.

Rodney Loonsfoot

Elizabeth D. Mayo

SPECIAL POINTS

OF INTEREST



Michael F. LaFernier, Sr., Tobacco Board Vice Chair/KBIC Tribal Council Member and Jennifer Misegan,

Tobacco Board Chair/KBIC Vice President cut the ribbon at today’s Grand Opening event. Photo credit:

Katrice Perkins.

The Keweenaw Bay Indian Community

Tobacco Company (KBICTC) and the

Asemaa Wholesale and Distribution Company held their Grand Opening on Tuesday afternoon, April 17, 2018. Chair of the

Tobacco Board and KBIC’s Vice President, Jennifer Misegan, welcomed the

Community to the Grand Opening Ceremony. “The Tobacco Company is owned

by the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community,

and it is operated by a Tobacco Board.

KBICTC is actually the manufacture of the

tobacco products that we see at this facility. Today is also the official opening of

our Asemaa Wholesale Distribution Company, and this company is an enterprise of

the tribe, just like the Pines and the Radio

Station. This has been a long time coming

and it actually began in 2008 when a group

of us traveled to the Seneca Nation in New

York. We met Gary Sanden and Travis

Heron, the owners of the Seneca Manufacturing. It was during this visit that we

toured their production facility, and our relationship and friendship began. A few

years later, the Tribal Council purchased

their cigarette making machine, and it is

actually the one that we are using today. It

wasn’t until we had several seizures of our

cigarettes by the State of Michigan

that we were forced into the difficult

process of obtaining our federal license to manufacture tobacco

products. We applied for our license in March of 2017, and after a

lot of preparation, documentation,

and many lessons learned, our license was finally granted in November of 2017. We still had to

wait for clearance from the Federal

Trade Commission which seemed

to take much longer than expected.

The Keweenaw Bay Indian ComPicture by Lauri Denomie.

Left to right, (front) Jennifer Misegan (KBIC Council Vice munity could not have done any of

President/KBIC Tobacco Board Chair), Doreen Blaker (KBIC this without our extraordinary, sucCouncil Treasurer/KBIC Tobacco Board Secretary), Susan J. cessful, business partners at AlleLaFernier (KBIC Council Secretary), Michael F. LaFernier, gany Capital Enterprises (ACE) and

Sr. (KBIC Council Member/KBIC Tobacco Board Vice Chair),

Seneca Manufacturing, Gary SanRandall Haataja (KBIC Council Member), Ode Porter

(Seneca Manufacturing and Allegany Capitol Enterprises), den, Travis Heron, and Odie Porter.

(back) Rodney Loonsfoot (KBIC Council Member), Larry De- They have years of experience and

nomie III (KBIC CEO), Toni Minton (KBIC Tribal Council Asst. as Gary likes to say, have learned

Secretary), Warren “Chris” Swartz, Jr. (KBIC Tribal President/ the hard way of what not to do. We

KBIC Tobacco Board Treasurer), Gary Loonsfoot, Jr. (KBIC

are very grateful to them, and they

Council Member), and Travis Heron (KBIC Tobacco Board

have definitely become friends of

Member/Seneca Manufacturing).

the Keweenaw Bay Indian Commu-



April 7, 2018 Tribal Council

Meeting

KBICTC/Asemaa Grand

Opening Held

Asher Selected Editor’s

Choice

Loonsfoot Appointed to Veteran Affairs Agency Trust

Committee

BIA will hold Election for

Amendment to KBIC Constitution.

Criminal Report

Deepest Sympathy

To be added to the mailing list or to correct your

mailing address, contact

the enrollment office at (906) 3536623 ext. 4113.

Picture by Lauri Denomie.

Continues page two.

(1) Bezhig

Grand Opening continued:

nity. This venture isn’t just about cigarettes, although we are making an excellent quality product. It is much more

than that; it is truly about sovereignty the sovereignty of the Keweenaw Bay

Indian Community. It is about us determining our own destiny. It also isn’t just

an economic development project; it is a

method for us to provide for the needs

of our membership through employment

opportunities, and the revenues that it

provides. The endeavor will not only

fund our General Welfare Support Program, but a percentage of the revenue

will go to our Health Clinic for Tobacco

related programs.”

Picture by Lauri Denomie.

Jennifer Misegan (shown above) expressed appreciation of the dedicated

work from a number of individuals to

open these doors up today. “I want to

thank the Board for their commitment

and work on this project; the Tribal

Council and past Tribal Councils, and

Larry Denomie our CEO -he jumped

right in and did the majority of the work

needed to get our license. Also a huge

thank you to Michael Lahti, who is the

Assistant Manger of our gas stations.

Mike took on a lot of extra work and has

been amazing in learning the actual production, sales, and marketing. He is a

one-man show up here, and we do appreciate all he does. Vicki Dakota is our

first ever Tobacco Agent for the tribe,

and we want to thank her for accepting

that position. A thank you to Tashina

Emery for her very creative and impressive logos which she designed for each

company. Lastly, a definite Chi miigwech to our Public Works Department

for all the extra work they put into this

facility getting us ready for production.”

Picture by Lauri Denomie.

President Warren “Chris” Swartz, Jr.

(shown above) shared a few words at

today’s celebration as well. “This project

is a combination of work we’ve been doing since 2008. This project goes a long

way with our sovereignty; we are always

looking for ways to diverge our portfolio,

and this is one of the ways we get to

take that opportunity to exercise our

sovereignty and our culture. It is important for us that we don’t lean on Indian

gaming, look toward our sovereignty,

and find ways we can diverge from our

portfolio. This is one of those things that

(2) Niizh

will help the Keweenaw Bay Indian

Community do that. I’m proud of what

we’ve done here, and it has taken a

number of people working hard together. It was like they say, `Pull up

your boots, lace up your boot straps,

and get to work.’ That is exactly what

happened here. With the support of the

Council, forming of the Board, and our

partnership with ACE, we’re seeing the

fruits of our labor here today at our

grand opening. We are opening up to

the world today!

I look at our mission and value, and

normally every five or ten years we upgrade that. Some of the core values for

the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community

includes: a tribe that preserves the Anishinaabe culture, advances economic

diversity, provides outstanding opportunities to enhance independency, and

promotes the health and well-being of

our community. I think we are well on

our way of meeting some of those vision

statements. In addition to our vision

statement, we also have a mission

statement, and our mission here at the

Keweenaw Bay Indian Community is to

TRIBAL COURT

CRIMINAL SENTENCES

The Tribal Court has agreed to comply with the

request of the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community’s CEO’s office to publish criminal sentencing

on a routine basis.

Jodie Chosa, case #18-016, §3.904, Domestic animals – required restraints – 1st offense

Sentencing on 03/26/2018, #18-016, §3.904:

1. Fine $100.00.

2. Defendant is financially responsible for the costs of

lodging, and random drug and alcohol testing, if

any.

3. One to three months standard drug and alcohol

restricted probation with a $10.00 monthly fee.

4. The animal must be restrained at all times.

Jodie Chosa, case #18-035, §3.904, Domestic animals – required restraints – 2nd offense

Sentencing on 03/26/2018, #18-035, §3.904:

1. Fine $150.00.

2. Defendant is financially responsible for the costs of

lodging, and random drug and alcohol testing, if

any.

3. One to three months standard drug and alcohol

restricted probation with a $10.00 monthly fee

(concurrent with #18-016).

4. Defendant shall write a one page paper on what

you understand offense §3.904, Domestic animal –

required restraints to be. The paper must be completed prior to being released from probation.

5. Restitution shall be determined. The Defendant

reserves the right to object if the amount seems

unreasonable.

6. The animal must be restrained at all times.

Sandman Shelifoe, Minogheezhig, case #17-227,

§3.203(A)(3), Timing of registration – 1st offense

Sentencing on 03/26/2018, #17-227, §3.203(A)(3):

1. Fine $500.00.

2. One-hundred-eighty days jail, credit for 78 days jail

served, 12 days jail to be served, 90 days jail shall

be suspended pending successful completion of all

terms of probation. Defendant is financially responsible for the costs of lodging and any expenses

incurred while incarcerated.

3. Six months of standard alcohol and drug restricted

probation with a $10.00 monthly fee. Defendant is

financially responsible for the costs of drug and

PBT testing, if any.

4. Defendant shall obtain a substance abuse screening and shall comply with the recommendations of

the screening until successfully completed. Defendant shall be financially responsible for the cost of

screening, if any. Defendant shall sign a release of

information for the Court to monitor compliance.

This appointment is to be made within two-weeks

of being released from jail.

5. Defendant shall obtain a mental health assessment and shall comply with the recommendations

of the screening until successfully completed. Defendant shall be financially responsible for the cost

of the assessment, if any. Defendant shall sign a

release of information for the Court to monitor compliance. This appointment is to be made within two

-weeks of being released from jail.

6. Defendant shall report to the Probation Office

within 24-hours of being release from jail. If released on the weekend, Defendant shall report on

Monday morning.

provide exceptional services for our

membership, a safe and positive work

environment for our employees, and to

sustain economic prosperity while protecting our sovereignty and preserving

our culture for future generations. That

is exactly what we plan on doing here,

working on that mission and continue to

work for all member of the Keweenaw

Bay Indian Community and all members

of our surrounding Community. We are

a major player in the local economy, and

we are happy to contribute to that.

When we think about businesses, we

always think of the big home run, the big

one that is going to be big for the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community. It is a

struggle to figure out how to diversify

from our portfolio and come up with

some ways to assure an increase in the

revenue for our Community. This may

not be a grand slam right now, but hopefully, it will be a major home run someday. Maybe we can begin the run

around the bases now. We have a lot of

work to do, and we are committed to doing that work.”

~ Submitted by Lauri Denomie, Newsletter Editor

Sandman Shelifoe, Minogheezhig, case #17-234,

§8.901, Contempt – 1st offense

Sentencing on 03/26/2018, #17-234, §8.901:

1. Sixty days jail. Defendant is financially responsible

for the costs of lodging and any expenses incurred

while incarcerated. (Consecutive to #17-227).

Defendant is financially responsible for the costs of

lodging and any expenses incurred while incarcerated.

Lussier, Shiloh, case #18-001, §3.305, Disorderly

person – 1st offense

Sentencing on 03/28/2018, #18-001, §3.305:

1. Fine $250.00.

2. Twenty days jail, credit for 10 days jail served, 10

days jail shall be suspended pending successful

completion of all terms of probation. Defendant

shall be financially responsible for the costs of lodging and any expenses incurred while incarcerated.

3. Three to six months standard alcohol and drug

restricted probation with the $10.00 monthly fee.

Defendant shall be financially responsible for the

costs of drug and PBT testing, if any.

4. Defendant shall obtain a substance abuse screening within 10 days of sentencing and shall comply

with the recommendations of the screening until

successfully completed. Defendant shall be financially responsible for the cost of screening, if any.

Defendant shall sign a release of information for

the Court to monitor compliance.

5. The Defendant shall provide a valid prescription to

the Court for Buprenorphine.

Lussier, Shiloh, case #18-032, §8.901, Contempt –

1st offense

Sentencing on 03/28/2018, #18-032, §8.901:

1. Six to twelve months standard alcohol and drug

restricted probation with the $10.00 monthly fee.

Defendant shall be financially responsible for the

costs of drug and PBT testing, if any.

Tolonen, Tyler, case #18-005, §3.202, Assault and

battery (domestic) – 1st offense

Sentencing on 04/10/2018, #18-005, §3.202:

1. Fine $500.00.

2. One-hundred-eighty days jail, credit for 82 days jail

served, serve eight days jail, 90 days jail shall be

suspending pending successful completion of all

terms of probation. Defendant shall be financially

responsible for the costs of lodging and any expenses incurred while incarcerated, if any.

3. Defendant shall obtain a substance abuse screening within 14 days of being released from jail and

shall comply with the recommendations of the

screening until successfully completed. Defendant

shall be financially responsible for the cost of

screening, if any. Defendant shall sign a release of

information for the Court to monitor compliance.

4. Must obtain an anger management screening

within 14 days of being released from jail and shall

comply with all recommendations until successfully

completed. Defendant shall sign a release of information for the Court to monitor compliance.

5. Defendant shall obtain a mental health assessment

and shall comply with the recommendations of the

assessment until successfully completed. Defendant shall be financially responsible for the cost of

the assessment, if any. Defendant shall sign a

release of information for the Court to monitor compliance.

6. If the Defendant fails to comply with any of his probation orders, he will be ordered to serve the remaining 90 days immediately.

APRIL 7, 2018 TRIBAL COUNCIL MEETING

Concluding the presentation, Debbie Parrish said, “It has

been my honor to be a part of this Community and to serve

the members of our Community in various capacities. There

are a few things still in the works and will need Council’s

continued support, one of which is making the recognition of

the Indian Tuition Waiver a reality for our students here. At

the federal level, please remind Senator Stabenow and Congressman Bergman, the Title III, Part F is under consideration for elimination, and KBOCC needs to keep that grant to

support our student services, our construction, and our other

programs. We still need to work closely with the BIA on getting our land into trust for the L’Anse Campus. We’ve had

some issues, and we’d like to get Council’s support on those.

It actually surrounds Lute’s Store (located near the L’Anse

Campus) and because of the underground tanks they are on

the State List. We’ve tried to get them off the list, we’ve tried

to work with the BIA, and they’re just not budging. Thank

you for all of your support, and please remember to keep the

college in your budget each year because it is going to be

important as we move forward, and if we increase our student enrollment, it will help with all financial ability from the

Bureau of Indian Education. On another note, I’ve worked

with Fred since 1972, and it’s been a journey and a ride. I

will be around, so if you need anything let me know. I will

still be in the background working as a consultant on a few

projects. In the meantime I’m just going to relax, enjoy my

grandchildren, and do some hobbying.”

President Warren “Chris” Swartz, Jr., shared a draft letter

he’d written to the L’Anse Township Supervisor related to the

wind project. “Dear Supervisor LeClaire, as you are aware,

Renewable Energy Systems (RES), a global energy company with a 13 GW energy capacity portfolio, is engaging activities related to the construction and operation of up to 55

wind turbines, each up to 492 feet in height in L’Anse Township. We note the following statement in the Executive Summary on page 22 of the 2012 L’Anse Township Master Plan.

L’Anse Township, like many other communities should up

their zoning ordinance to include regulations to include wind

turbines to protect the health, safety, and welfare of the community. We agree that the L’Anse Township must have a

robust all encompassing ordinance that specifically applies

to utility grid wind energy systems in place prior to issuing

any special land use permit or any other approval for the

construction and operation of the project that RES is proposing. While this is a significant undertaking which will require

a complex and substantial effort, we want to assist in any

way possible because we believe the authority possessed by

municipal governments to take action to advance the public

health, safety, and welfare is very important. We also believe that the L’Anse Township Authorities have an obligation

to at least consider the cumulative impact of its decision that

includes the potential impacts to the treaty rights belonging

to our Community. Regardless to the stated purpose of this

proposed project with more than two dozen massive sulfide

deposits identified in this vicinity it could have the ability to

industrialize the southern flank of what would amount to the

largest district in the entire mid-western region. Therefore, I

strongly recommend that the L’Anse Township immediately

enact a moratorium on a temporary basis on the establishment, placement, construction, enlargement, and/or erection of wind energy conversion systems within the Township and

on the issuance of any and all permits, licenses, or approvals for any property subject to the L’Anse Township’s Zoning Ordinance for the establishment or use of wind

energy conversion systems, and that this

Ordinance shall apply to any applications

pending before any Township Board or

Commission including the Township

Board, Planning Commission, or Zoning

Board of Appeals. This will give L’Anse

Township the ability to exercise your obligations in full measure while we work together to discharge our responsibilities to

ensure that our communities, our collective

communities, are protected. Sincerely,

Picture by Lauri Denomie.

Warren Swartz, Jr., President of KePictured above is Debbie Parrish (center) with the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community Tribal weenaw Bay Indian Community.”

Council. Debbie was presented with a beautiful beaded necklace set designed by one of KBIC’s

Fran Whitman and Nancy Haun of

The Regular Monthly Tribal Council Meeting was held on

Saturday, April 7, 2018, at the Big Bucks Bingo Hall in

Baraga, Michigan. President Warren Swartz, Jr., presided

over the meeting with Jennifer Misegan, Susan J. LaFernier,

Toni Minton, Doreen Blaker, Robert R.D. Curtis, Jr., Fred Dakota, Randall Haataja, Michael F. LaFernier, Sr., Gary F.

Loonsfoot, Jr., Rodney Loonsfoot, and Elizabeth D. Mayo present.

President Swartz shared numerous Thank You and For

Your Information items addressed to Council.

President Warren “Chris” Swartz, Jr. gave the President’s

Report (page five), Vice President Jennifer Misegan gave the

Vice President’s Report (page nine), and Secretary Susan J.

LaFernier gave the Secretary’s Report (page eight). Council

approved the Department Head Reports for February 2018

and Council Meeting Minutes for March 1, March 3, and

March 8, 2018.

Under recognized scheduled delegation/individuals: Vice

President Jennifer Misegan initiated Council’s recognition for

KBOCC’s President Debbie Parrish’s Retirement. Vice

President Misegan said, “Debbie’s career began in 1972.

She was a legal secretary to Tribal Attorney Gar Hood. She

then went on to work as a secretary and administrative assistant for the Young Adult Community Corp (YACC) program; the Chairman’s Office with Fred Dakota; and she

worked as Don LaPointe’s Administrative Assistant. Debbie

worked with James Schutte on the Elderly Nutrition Programs; assisted with setting up the Ojibwa Seniors’ Gift

Shop; as a Program Coordinator for job training programs;

and in the Business Development Office. She also worked

with my dad, Mike Chosa, on the Ojibwa Lanes and Lounge

project, creation of the Ojibwa Industrial Park, and development of the Economic Development Corporation. Debbie

also volunteered in helping establish KBIC’s Big Bucks

Bingo at the Zeba Bingo Hall. She managed the Even Start

Program at its beginning and established the indoor Play

Center which later became part of the current Pre-Primary

Program.

Debbie served on the Keweenaw Bay Tribal Council in

1986 and 1987 and was the Council’s Secretary for many

years. She also served on many committees throughout the

years: Hiring Committee, Powwow Committee, Economic

Development Committee, Education Committee, Constitutional Task Force, Election Board, and Enrollment Board,

and she currently continues to serve on the Ojibwa Senior

Board and the Health Board.

Debbie’s legacy here will be her commitment and her

massive accomplishments with the Keweenaw Bay Ojibwa

Community College.

While serving as the President,

KBOCC became fully accredited by the Higher Learning

Commission; obtained Land Grant Status through USDA;

and recognition through the Bureau of Indian Education.

She then went on to expand the college to the old hospital

location, which is absolutely a beautiful facility and one this

whole Community is extremely proud of.

Debbie did all of this while being a devoted mom, grandmother, and a foster parent. Debbie Parrish has most definitely served our Community well, and we are very proud to

celebrate 46-years of dedicated service. Chi miigwech!”

most talented beaders, Frances Drift.

Continues page four.

(3) Niswi

Council Meeting continued:

the trees along there. Also there is drill

site where they have been doing ore

sampling within the highlighted area.

The L’Anse Township Board has the

final say in this. The Zoning Planning

Board makes the recommendation to

the L’Anse Township Board. I have

been to the last two meetings, and

these Boards have been bullied.

They’ve been yelled at by government

entities that want this to come in, like

the county government, the administration people, and the Road Commission. The Road Commission wants

them to come in as they will receive

$200,000 the first year. So there is a

lot of pressure. I am requesting that

your Council attend the Planning meeting and be supportive of the Township

officials. The next Township Board

meeting is on Wednesday, April 11, at

4:00 p.m. at the L’Anse Township Hall.

The L’Anse Board of Commissioner’s

meeting is on Tuesday, April 10, at

4:45 p.m. In a final note, I’d ask if the

Council would consider a Resolution or

a motion in opposition of the wind turbines.”

Motion by Susan J.

LaFernier to oppose the Summit

Lake Wind Project and for Council

to draft a Resolution stating so prior

to the L’Anse Township Board meeting, supported by Jennifer Misegan.

Eleven supported, 0 opposed, 0 abstained, motion carried.

Under new business: Treasurer

Doreen Blaker presented the April

2018 donation requests. Motion by

Friends of the Huron Mountains met

with Council in regards to these wind

turbines.

Ms. Whitman said, “We

wanted to come to the Tribal Council to

inform you of our concerns. This is a

British Company coming to put up

these wind turbines that are approximately 500 feet in height, and they will

take up a lot of room. They will affect

the whole environment, the wildlife, the

bats, the birds, etc. The roads will

have to be made wider, straightened,

and will open up a whole corridor.” A

map was distributed showing where

the turbines are proposed to be

placed, and another map showing annual average wind speeds. Fran Whitman continued, “The main winds are in

the middle of the U.S. We are in a

brown area on Lake Superior which

doesn’t have a lot of wind to support

the production of this electricity from

wind turbines. The RES British Company gets artifact subsidies to put

these there. The subsidy period will

expire in 2020, so they are in a rush to

get these placed. We’ve been passing

out petitions on this issue and have acquired over 300 signatures thus far,

and the majority of the people we have

spoken with do oppose this project.” In

regards to a third map distributed, Ms.

Whitman said, “The highlighted area is

reservation. This map shows a transmission line from the mine site to the

substation. They will be taking out all

Rodney Loonsfoot to approve April

2018 donations as: $250.00 to Clean

Water Action Organization Great

Lakes Awards Celebration honoring

Desmond Berry; $500.00 for the

L’Anse Senior Lock-in; $250 to the

Paulette Jordan for Governor of the

State of Idaho; $350 and use of a

tribal vehicle to Tina Durant for her

daughter’s (traveling) basketball

tournament; refer the donation request for the Warrior Relief Fund

American Legion Post 349’s Golf

Outing to the Ojibwa Casinos; and

for $1,000 and a gift basket to Holy

Cross Lutheran Church’s fund

raiser for Jackie Jones Budreau and

Jim Knuuttila medical expenses

(donations total of $2,350 plus a gift

basket), supported by Jennifer Misegan. Eleven supported, 0 opposed,

0 abstained, motion carried.

Council Member Elizabeth Mayo

discussed the Fourth of July Holiday

schedule due to scheduling proposes.

Motion by Rodney Loonsfoot to approve an additional day off for the

Fourth of July Holiday to include

July 5, 2018, supported by Randall

Haataja. Eleven supported, 0 opposed, 0 abstained, motion carried.

Council moved into closed session

with Attorney Danielle Webb with HUD

Monitoring Report on the agenda prior

to adjournment.

~ Submitted by Lauri Denomie,

Newsletter Editor

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Pre-Primary Building

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May 2018 Calendar



May 5:

Saturday Council Meeting at Big Bucks Bingo, Baraga,

at 9 a.m.

May 13: Happy Mother’s Day!

May 28: Memorial Day Holiday,

Gov’t Offices closed.

(4) Niiwin

MICHIGAN INDIAN ELDERS

ASSOCIATION 2018

SCHOLARSHIP NOTICE

The Michigan Indian Elders Association (MIEA) is

pleased to announce that it will make available (4)

$1,000 scholarships and (6) $500 scholarships. The

scholarships will be awarded to at least nine qualified

students with the $1,000 scholarships being awarded to

top three qualified students, as determined by committee

review and lottery, if necessary. Each student must be

currently enrolled in a course of study at, or have a letter

of acceptance from, a public college or university or

technical school and must meet the following qualifications.

QUALIFICATIONS – the student:

 Must be an enrolled member (copy of Tribal Card) or

a direct descendant of an enrolled member of one of

the MIEA constituent Tribes/Bands (must be verified

in writing by the Tribal Enrollment Department).

 Must have successfully completed and passed all

five General Education Development (G.E.D.)

equivalency tests with a minimum score of 40 and an

average score of 45 and must possess a G.E.D. certificate; or must have graduated from an accredited

high school with a 3.00 grade point average; or if currently enrolled at a college, university, or trade

school, must have an accumulated grade point average of 3.00.

 Must, except for special and extenuating circumstances, attend college, university, or trade school on

a full-time basis.

 Must complete the provided application form and

submit it with required supporting documentation,

and the mailing must be RECEIVED BY THE COORDINATOR postmarked no later than June 15, 2018.

(PLEASE NOTE, incomplete or late applications will

not be considered).

An application form can be downloaded by visiting

http://michiganindianelders.org/students.php on the web.

The application can also be obtained from the Tribal

Education Department of each of the constituent Tribes/

Bands (includes Keweenaw Bay Indian Community).

President’s Report for the Months of February and March 2018



The following is a summary of activities that occurred in the

Office of the President for the months of February and March

2018.



Early in the month of February, I attended a United Tribes

Meeting in Lansing, Michigan. I met with Tribal liaisons

from state departments and agencies, participated in a

meeting about the Line 5 pipeline agreement, and ate at

the annual legislative reception. At this meeting, we discussed support for the Native Farm Bill Coalition and annual funding for a functional State Geological Survey. A

resolution passed at the meeting to support both bills.

I attended a number of funerals on behalf of the community in Baraga, L’Anse, and Zeba.

I approved the Community’s Natural Resources Department to enter into another services agreement with White

Water Associates to complete a third year of sampling in

wild rice waters and develop a technical report summarizing all of the data collected allowing us to prioritize wild

rice waters for restoration in our region. White Water, under EPA funds, completed two years of sampling for KBIC

(2016 and 2017). For the results of the 2018 study to be

comparable to those of the previous two years, it is important to stick with White Water as the contractor completing

the field sampling and laboratory analysis.

I also approved the Village of L’Anse to utilize the road going through a parcel of land owned by the Community off

Pinery Road to apply bio solids to the pine trees on the Village’s property. Additionally, they said they will maintain

and widen the road.

Chris Miller from Merchant Solutions installed our debit/

credit card machine. We are now able to process credit/

debit cards at the front desk of the tribal center.

I received an update from Matt Johnson from Lundin Mining Company about proposed legislative changes to the

regulatory laws that affect Eagle Mine and the cededterritory resources for the Indians. Matt said in his view,

he felt the amendments are minor changes. He outlined

why they would like to see the changes to Part 632 and

Part 301. Proposed changes to part 632 include amendments to allow the MDEQ to determine whether a full permit review process is required. I think a full permit review

is required to determine the impacts to treaty-protected resources.

Tribal Chairman Rick Peterson from Red Cliff e-mailed me

and requested an informal meeting to discuss issues of

mutual concern or interest. This week at the GLIFWC

Board of Commissioner’s Meeting, I met with Chairman

Peterson to inform him that we are interested in talking

with him and his entire council regarding the issues. He

said he would inform his Council of the offer and get back

to me on some proposed meeting dates. I’m assuming he

would like to have a discussion on treaty rights for Lake

Superior.

The Community is informed about Indians from the Mole

Lake Tribe desire to come in our Home Territory with the

intention of harvesting Walleye in Worm Lake during the

upcoming spring spearing season. Worm Lake is also

known as Vermilac Lake located on the southern end of

our Home Territory. I informed Mole Lake Tribe that the

lake is within our Home Territory, and there are some Inter

-tribal discussions regarding regulation on Indians exercising treaty protected resources within our Home Territory.

To that end, Chairman McGeshick and his Council have

been issued an invitation to come to the Keweenaw Bay

Indian Community to address their request to come into

our Home Territory.

The Tribal Council approved a list of potential candidates

for the Board of Regents for the Keweenaw Bay Ojibwa

Community College as required by the MOA.

NAHASDA requires HUD to assess, at least annually,

each recipient’s performance under the Act regarding Indian Housing. We received a letter regarding the review of

the Annual Performance Report for the program year that

ended September 30, 2017. During the assessment, the

following measures were considered as to whether the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community:



carried out its eligible activities in a timely manner;

carried out its eligible activities;

has continued capacity to carry out activities;



complied with the Indian Housing Plan;

submitted an accurate Annual Performance Review

(APR).

The review determined that the APR is complete and the

community has complied substantially with the IHP in carrying out its eligible activities in a timely manner.

The National Park Service participated in an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) to address the wolf population at the Isle Royale National Park. The purpose of the

EIS was to determine how and when to bring wolves back

to Isle Royale. The EIS includes three alternatives to bring

wolves back to the isle as well as not bringing wolves to

the isle. The National Park Service preferred the alternative method to reintroduce 30 to 40 wolves over a three to

five year period of time at Isle Royale. The Grand Portage

Tribe Band and the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community expressed interest in a waiting period before action could be

taken. Since then, the National Park, within the last week,

issued a final EIS and will make it available. It is likely

they will have a final decision within 30 days.

I had the opportunity to meet with 109th District Representative, Sara Cambensy, in regards to the mascot issue of

Marquette High School. As you know, her opponent was

Rich Rossway, the President of the Marquette Area School

Board. I informed her that we need to work together to improve education for our Native American students who attend Marquette Area Schools. She indicated that she

would work with us, and I did follow-up with an e-mail to

Rich Rossway attempting to schedule a sit-down meeting

to discuss potential avenues that could be completed to

help improve education for our children at schools that

have demeaning mascots.

There have been some issues with the Half-way House

budget trying to stay within the money available. We’ve

looked at the schematic and design. Our Assistant CEO,

Sarah Smith, eliminated and modified a few areas, and we

are now within budget and will move forward with project.

I was contacted by Anne-Marie Griger from the Renewable

Energy Systems (RES) Group, related to the Summit Lake

Wind Project that is going to be occurring here. I participated in a telephone planning conference with a number of

L’Anse Township people in regards to the wind project that

is proposed to come here. I wanted to be more informed

on this project, so I participated in the conference. I was

surprised to hear the number of things that this proposed

wind project may or may not do. My biggest concern is on

the impact it will have on treaty protected resources, and

the offsets each one of these turbines displaces in regard

to land. During this call and subsequent calls, I have

learned that each windmill displaces about an acre to an

acre-and-a-half of land. If they have 33-100 windmills going up, imagine the amount of land that will be displaced.

All of this land is within the ceded territory reserve for the

Indians to utilize through the treaty resources. I am concerned about the taking of the land. Sooner or later all of

these takings are going to amount to standing maybe on

Isle Royale seven-generations from now. I’m concerned

with all of these accumulative impacts from industry corporations that are going to have an impact on generations to

come. There is a push to improve the infrastructure between here and Eagle Mine. There is a need for a new Pit

Lake and more power in the U.P. Look at what is being

built around us; the gas station being built here is going to

need an infrastructure line to get all of the power up to the

gas station. If there are windmills coming, and there is already a power plant here, a big long interconnection line to

connect all of this power together will be needed. When

they get that, then the infrastructure is here. I also think

there may be a mill or something going up between here

and Eagle Mine now. I am definitely concerned about this

matter.

Respectfully submitted,

Warren C. Swartz

KBIC SPRING CLEAN-UP, Curbside Pickup

Who: KBIC Tribal households within KBIC. No businesses or non-tribal

households included. L’Anse—May 14th and 15th, Baraga—May 16th

and 17th. Please put waste on the curbside at 7 a.m., we will not return.

No need to register. For more information call 353-8024.

(5) Naanan

Asher Selected Editor’s Choice – Inspiring Artist in the Western Art Collector Publication

Le’Ana Asher, a Keweenaw Bay Indian Community Tribal

Member, has been recently featured in the April 2018 issue of

the publication Western Art Collector for her paintings as an

emerging artist. Le’Ana was selected as the editor’s choice

special edition. (View www.westernartcollector.com.)

Le’Ana’s paintings are inspired in part by her Native American Indian culture, contemporary American culture, and her

classical fine art training. She examines cultural identity, tribal

symbolism, traditional storytelling, and contemporary Indian

life through the lens of a modern indigenous woman living in

two cultures.

Le’Ana said, “I was born and raised near Pontiac, Michigan.

I have been making art as long as I can remember. It has always been a part of me. Growing up I was confronted with living the diverse landscapes of my home reservation and my

suburban home near Chicago, Illinois. These dual perspectives helped shape who I am and where my art comes from. I

am both a citizen of the U.S. and my home reservation, at

times not feeling like I fit into either world. Art seemed to be

this place where I could go to process, lose myself, and find

myself all at the same time.”

Le’Ana Asher (above) and her brother Corey Asher are the children of

the late Ellery Asher. Her grandparents were the late John (Moose) Asher

and Gladys (Chix) Knapp Asher. Le’Ana’s mother is Anetia Nichols Pace,

a member of the Sault Ste. Marie Chippewa Tribe. Le’Ana lives near Chicago, Illinois, with her two children: Akiwan Banks and Nitaawe Banks.

Le’Ana is a first generation college graduate. After seven

years, three schools, and changing her minor three times,

Le’Ana received her Bachelor’s Degree in Fine Arts with a triple concentration in drawing, painting, and photography from

Eastern Michigan University, in 1999.

Le’Ana said, “My Artistic process includes traditional media

(acrylic, oil, and photography) as well as some mixed media. I

have experienced years of seemingly unproductive art then

followed by years of intense prolific art making. I’ve learned to

trust this process, and I’ve learned that taking breaks can be

just as important as pushing through. I keep coming back to

this desire to find my voice through art, connect to what is

meaningful, and live a more expansive life. My painting style

dances somewhere between realism and abstract expressionism. My mission is to help reshape the dominate cultural narrative we contemporary Indians live in. To help celebrate and

preserve Native American art, culture, and a way of life by using my paintbrush as my vision and voice to inspire others to

live the life they’ve imagined and desired. I am sharing my

story with the hope of inspiring other tribal members and giving some tribal pride.”

Le’Ana has a website displaying more of her talent which

are available as originals and prints at www.leanaasher.com,

or https://www.instagram.com/leanaasherart/.

~ submitted by Lauri Denomie, Newsletter Editor

Picture by Lauri Denomie.

(6) Ningodwaaswi

(7) Niizhwaaswi

Tribal Council Secretary’s Report for the Month of March 2018 to the Council/Community

ANIN! We honor the greatness in you.

Remember: “Indian Country Counts”

“Our People, Our Nations, Our Future”

We continue to recognize the richness of Native American contributions, accomplishments, and sacrifices to the political, cultural, and economic life of Michigan and the United

States.

“Earth Day” is April 22nd. Remember to help our “Aki” by

cleaning the debris by your street/road side and at your residence. Be watching for the Tribe’s annual spring clean/

pickup dates.

Many thanks to our Constitution Committee and all who

attended and gave their input at the Constitution Convention

held from February-May 2015 regarding the proposed

amendment to the Constitution-Article IX “Judicial Branch”.

It has taken three years after many letters to the B.I.A. to finally approve our request to hold a Secretarial Election for

the amendment. The Constitution Committee will be holding

the following community meetings to review the amendment:

May 15, 2018, at the Ojibwa Senior’s Center or Bingo Hall at

5:00 p.m. and on June 18, 2018, at the Zeba Hall at 5:00

p.m. Watch the mail for the instructions on how to vote for

this important amendment.

The Tribal Council has approved two attorneys as independent Appeals Officers who have heard four employee

grievances, appeals of dismissal or leave without pay from

the Government and Enterprises since December 2017. The

procedure is explained in the Personnel Policy/Employment

Manuals.

Mino-Bimaadizin “Live Well”

Respectfully, Susan J. LaFernier

During March, the Tribal Council held one Regular meeting on March 3, 2018, one Work Session on March 26, 2018,

and four Special Council meetings on March 1, 8, 15, 22, and

19, 2018. Following are the unapproved minutes. This report will be published in the KBIC “Wiikwedong Dazhi-Ojibwe”

newsletter, and the approved minutes may also be found on

the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community Website.

March 1, 2018 Special Count Meeting (unapproved):

 3rd Reading: Approved to amend proposed Ordinance

2018-01, The Tobacco Ordinance of 2018 (amending Title

3) and Title 21B of the Tobacco Ordinance of 2008.

Chapter 3.17 of Title 3 was re-named to Offenses Involving Alcoholic Beverages, Tobacco Products, and Controlled Substances and added 3.1707-3.1712.

 Approved the wholesaler fee for Fee Stamps at $14.35

per carton of cigarettes according to Section 21B.306 of

the Tobacco Ordinance of 2018.

 Approved the Guardian Ad Litem/Other Services Retainer

Agreement with Joseph P. O’Leary and Tribal Court.

 KBIC Housing Department: Approved the Useful Life and

Binding Policy (commitment affordability period to ensure

availability of affordable housing units and housing related

programs for qualified Tribal members.

 Approved the Emergency Assistance Policy (private

homeowner’s emergency assistance/repair for low income

members/families) and includes land contract owned

homes.

 Approved Resolution KB 008-2018 which ratified the Enrollment Board’s resolution to define descendant as a person who is the biological child of a member of the Community for purposes of determining who is eligible for services the Community provides.

 Approved Resolution KB 009-2018 (revises KB 042-2015)

which restates the need for a Secretarial Election to add

the Judicial Branch to its Constitution and requests that

the Secretary of Interior call for an election for the purpose of voting on Article IX Judicial Branch.

 Approved the Grand River Anishinaabeg, LLC Tier III Services Agreement ending June 30, 2019, for Consulting

Services to New Day Treatment Center for the new Halfway House Project.

 Approved the addendum to the Inter-Tribal Council of MI,

Inc. Memorandum of Cooperative Agreement for the Affordable Care Act, Tribal Home Visiting Grant Program

which added $43,800.00 to the original agreement for a

total of $146,000.00 September 30, 2017 – September

29, 2018.

(8) Ishwaaswi



Approved the bid from Personal Security Consultants

(PSC, LLC) for $13,300.00 for a three-day training session:

Employee Investigation and Adjudication Training Certification to comply with Public Law 101-630 (30 people) with

reimbursement from the B.I.A.

Approved Joanne Clement and Debra Parrish as candidates for the KB Ojibwa Community College Board of Regents slate.

Defeated a motion to terminate Ed Janisse’s (Eagle Radio

Station GM) contract effective April 2, 2018.

Denied a waiver request #001-2018 from KBIC Housing

Department (Pet Policy).

March 3, 2018 Regular Council Meeting (unapproved):

 Approved the Vice President’s Report (Jennifer Misegan)

February 2018 Report.

 Approved the Secretary’s (Susan J. LaFernier) February

2018 Report.

 Approved the CEO’s (Larry Denomie, III) February 2018

Report.

 Approved the Department Head Reports for January 2018.

 Approved the March 2018 Donations: $500.00 to the Diabetes Outreach Network Sponsorship; $250.00 to the

Grand Rapid Metro Ministry for the Native American Elders

Program; $1,000.00 requested by Brigitte and Mariah LaPointe-Dunham for the 6th Annual U.P. Home Health and

Hospice Dancing with our Stars Marquette County Style

Charity Event.

 Approved Resolution KB 007-2018 to join the Native Farm

Bill Coalition to ensure that federal agriculture policy seeks

to enhance the development of healthy, accessible, affordable, and nutritious food needed in Indian Country

March 8, 2018 Special Council Meeting (unapproved):

 Approved the January 25, 2018 and February 1, 2018

Tribal Council meeting minutes.

 Approved the renewal business license with Jody L. Pittsley for J.P. Transport January 3, 2018 – January 2, 2019.

 Approved the Head Start and Early Head Start Center to

be compliant with Public Law 101-630 to follow our background check policy, and the Tribe will cover the cost

(match).

March 15, 2018 Special Council Meeting (unapproved):

 Approved the February 3, 8, 15, 22, and 26, 2018 Tribal

Council meeting minutes.

 Approved the Real Property Acquisition Policies and Procedures (to effectively and responsibly carry out its charge

to regulate the uses, acquisition, protection, and preservation of Tribal property.

 Approved the KBIC NAHASDA Funds Investment Policy

(to be used for the investment of NAHASDA funds only).

 Approved to waive the 1st Reading of proposed Ordinance

2018-02 Title Four Juvenile Division Amendment to add

4.614 Permanency Hearing (to comply with Title IV-E of

the Social Security Act) and set the 2nd and 3rd Readings

for March 29, 2018.

 Approved the KBIC Housing Department Tenant Grievance Policy with the changes.

 Approved the KBIC Housing Department Home Owner Assistance Policy with the changes.

 Approved the Judge Pro Tempore Contract for KBIC with

Mark Esqueda, Tribal Court Judge (Lac Vieux Desert

Band) October 1, 2017 – October 1, 2020.

 Approved eight applicants and one applicant (pending his

report) for Commercial Fishing Licenses for 2018-19.

 Approved the Tier III Services Agreement with Shirley Recollet (Canada) for language immersion services March 1,

2018-August 31, 2018.

 Approved a new business license with Robert A. Ellsworth

as “Ellro & ProPal Carpet Cleaning (Shampooing) Services

– L’Anse, MI March 1, 2018-March 6, 2019.

 Approved the Physician’s Employment Agreement with Dr.

Rian David Mintek (Allegan, MI) April 2, 2018 – May 23,

2018.

March 22, 2018 Special Council Meeting (unapproved):

 Approved the revised Purchase and Procurement Policy

with the changes and implement the policy by the end of

this fiscal year or sooner after staff training. This policy

complies with the Native American Housing Assistance

and Self Determination Act of 1996, as amended, and the

implementing regulations at 24 CFR 1000, 24 CFR 1003,



the procurement standards of 2 CFR 200, and Section 7

(b) of the Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act.

Approved the Consolidated Tribal Government Program

(CTGP) B.I.A. Award contract documents for FY 2018

January 1, 2018 – December 31, 2020.

Approved the “Agreement to House Inmates” with the

Houghton County Sheriff’s Office/Houghton County, MI.

Approved the Tier III Services Agreement with Personal

Security Consultants, LLC to provide an Employee Investigation and Adjudication Training Certification April 3-5,

2018, for $10,500.00 for up to 25 attendees to comply

with Public Law 101-630.

Approved the renewal business license with Gerald Jondreau for “Traditional Treasures” (local, traditional foods)

August 18, 2017 – August 17, 2018.

Approved a donation of $8,000.00 Diamond Sponsor for

the 2018 Baraga County Lumberjack Days Committee

Fourth of July Fireworks.

Approved a request for free camping at the Park on September 3-9, 2018, events for September-Recovery Month.

Approved the new budget for 970 Asemaa Wholesale and

Distributing Company and the 510 budget modification for

the fee stamp revenue/fee stamp cost.

March 26, 2018 Work Session-Special Council Meeting

(unapproved):

 Drug Free Work Place Policy Review/Discussion with Assistant Tribal Attorney, Kevin Carlisle regarding random

drug testing. The Supreme Court held that random testing is permissible if it serves special governmental needs.

Council will review the list of government and non-gaming

positions to determine which may be tested.

 Continued review of the (Government) Personnel Policy

Page 23 5.0 Personnel Records to Page 27 6.7 Employee

Compensation.

March 29, 2018 Special Council Meeting (unapproved):

 Approved a contribution of $500.00 for a lunch reception

honoring U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow on April 3, 2018

in Marquette, MI.



Approved the KBIC Housing Department “Admission and

Occupancy Policy” with the changes, and it complies with

NAHASDA. The goal is to provide affordable housing in a

safe and healthy environment to qualifying members of

the KBIC to encourage financial self-sufficiency of the

community’s low-income families and to develop opportunities for home ownership.

2nd/3rd Reading: Approved proposed Ordinance 201802 Title Four Juvenile Division amendment to add 4.614

Permanency Hearing and approved Substitute #1 which

added H. Special Considerations.

Approved the Memorandum of Understanding with Lac

Vieux Desert Band of Lake Superior Chippewa Indians to

address a drug-abuse crisis in both Communities by entering into this cooperative MOU as to narcotics detection

and prevention with the use of a K-9 Unit Team for five

years.

Approved the Data Agreement Amendment with the

Michigan Department of Health and Human Services and

the KBIC Office of Child Support to add IRS Publication

1075 Exhibit 7 Contract Language for General Services.

Approved Fischer Biological Consulting, LLC as a single

source for services (hatchery improvements) for up to

$20,000.00.

Approved White Water Associates as a sole source for a

third year services agreement for sampling the wild rice

waters up to $40,000.00 for the Natural Resources Department.

Approved Resolution KB 010-2018 for the Phase Three

application to the Multicultural Intermediary for Collaborative Action for the Lighthouse Repair for $35,000.00/labor

match.

Approved the bid from Frei Chevrolet for the “Roll Into

Spring in a New SUV” giveaway promotion at the casinos

for two 2018 Chevrolet Equinox.

Respectfully Submitted,

Susan J. LaFernier

Vice President March 2018 Monthly Report



The KBIC Tobacco Company has been selling product to

Asemaa Wholesale and Distribution, and we now have our

products on the shelves at two of our locations. Jobs

have been posted, and posting will close on Monday, April

9. We intend to hire two Makers and two Packers. Eventually, we plan to begin training Operators once we get a

better handle on the production process. We will begin

another production run on April 16. Sales continue to be

very good. We have spent a lot of time and are having

weekly conference calls with ACE regarding the process

of placing an order and operations of the facility.

We are hosting a Grand Opening Celebration for both

KBICTC and Asemaa on Tuesday, April 17 at 2 pm. We

are planning a ribbon cutting, tours of the facility until 6

pm, and we will also be serving delicious cake.

We have been continuing to follow up with the Secretary

of the Interior’s Office regarding our Canal Land Claim.

Letters were sent to John Tahsuda, Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary of Indian Affairs, explaining our legal position and answering a question that they requested more

information about. I will be following up with him next

week.

Last month the Council approved Resolution KB007-2018

and joined the Native Farm Coalition. We are now official

members and can be found on the organization’s website

as members. We have been in contact with the coordinators and are awaiting additional information as to what we

can do to assist. I did send a letter to the Chairman and

the Ranking member of the Senate Committee on Agricul-



ture, Nutrition, and Forestry urging them to include our exclusion for general welfare benefits for Indian people for

the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program or SNAP.

The program provides the bridge cards.

The group working on updating our Controlled Substance

laws met on March 23. Unfortunately, everyone was not

able to make it. We did review what has been written so

far, and Kevin Carlisle is continuing to work on the draft.

The next meeting is scheduled for the morning of April 17.

This past week I attended Employee Investigation and Adjudication Training. The training was conducted by Personnel Security Consultants, Inc. and was organized by

Debbie Picciano. I had previously been to training regarding Public Law 101-630 background requirements, and it

was nowhere near as thorough and concise as this training. We learned that we are also required to comply with

Public Law 101-647 as well as 25 CFR 63, 25CFR 12, the

Law Enforcement Guidelines and the Gun Control Act for

our Police Officers. We also learned that while we are

complying with the statutory bars in the background process, we are not going far enough into the character requirements within those laws. We are doing many things

very well in the process and will need to adjust our policy

some to meet all of the requirements.

Respectfully submitted,

Jennifer Misegan

PUBLIC ANNOUNCEMENT

Is your charitable organization planning on holding a raffle or selling raffle tickets on the L’Anse Indian Reservation?

Federal law, through the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act, granted Tribes exclusive right to regulate gaming activity on Indian lands.

Even if you or the members of your organization are not tribal members, the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community Gaming Commission

has the authority to regulate your raffle. It is unlawful to game without a license.

Please contact the KBIC Gaming Commission Office at (906) 353-4222 or stop by the office located at the Tribal Center for an

application and a copy of the rules and regulations.

Application deadline for submission of ALL Class I Drawings is 30 days and Class II Raffles is 60 days prior to your event.

License Fee will be waived when the application is received within this timeline.

16429 Bear Town, Rd.

Baraga, MI 49908

(906) 353-4222

(9) Zhaangaswi

A brief history of our Constitution and

proposed amendment to the Constitution:

Article IX-Judicial Branch

FOOD DISTRIBUTION PROGRAM ON

INDIAN RESERVATIONS (FDPIR)

FY 2018 NET MONTHLY INCOME STANDARDS*

(Effective Oct. 1, 2017 to Sept. 30, 2018)

The Indian Reorganization Act of June 18, 1934, is an act to conserve and develop Indian lands and resources, extend to Indians the right to form businesses

and other organizations, establish a credit system for Indians, grant certain rights of

home rule to Indians, provide vocational education for Indians, and other purposes.

The L’Anse Reservation (and Ontonagon) voted on June 17, 1935, and approved

the terms of the act by a vote of 413 For/8 Against (558 total voting population).

Section 16 of the Act states that an Indian Tribe may adopt an appropriate constitution and bylaws. A constitution is a document organizing a government and articulates the fundamental rules by which a nation and its people intend to work together

to achieve their goals. It says who they are as a people, who has what rights and

authorities, how they will make decisions, and how they resolve disputes.

Our constitution was duly adopted by a vote of 239 For/18 Against (939 total

voting population) on November 7, 1936, and approved on December 17, 1936, by

the Secretary of Interior in accordance with the Indian Reorganization Act.

The Constitution Committee was established with Resolution KB 1804-2011 to

advance, organize, coordinate, and host Constitution Conventions, so recommendations may be submitted to the Tribal Council for their consideration within areas

of the Constitution and By-Laws of the KBIC for amendment.

The Tribal Court was formally established when the Tribal Council approved Title One of the Tribal Code - 1.101 The Tribal Court; Creation and Existence and

was approved by the Secretary of the Interior on October 17, 1974, to provide for

the maintenance of law and order and the administration of justice.

Resolution KB 044-2014 (October 23, 2014), formally called for a constitutional

convention to be held for the purpose of establishing a Judicial Branch within the

constitution to insure a system of checks and balances. A branch of government co

-equal with the Tribal Council must be created by The People of the Keweenaw

Bay Indian Community, not the Tribal Council. The convention began on February

3, 2015, with 33 people attending various meetings until May 5, 2015. Title One of

the Tribal Code was used as a guide for the proposed amendment to the Constitution Article IX – Judicial Branch (13 sections-five pages) which provides for a separate branch of government free from political interference and conflicts of interest.

The amendment was submitted to the Secretary of the Interior on September 24,

2015, per Resolution KB 042-2015 and again on March 1, 2018, per Resolution KB

009-2018, both requesting an election for the purpose of voting on this article to be

added to the Constitution. After years of various reasons and clarifications and

waiting for the Bureau to call for an election, a letter dated March 29, 2018, from

the Department of Interior requested that we send in a list of eligible voters who

meet the statutory requirements at which time they will call and conduct an election

with the regulations at 25 CFR Part 81 which will be by mail-in ballot. The initial list

of eligible voters was approved by the Tribal Council on April 19, 2018.

The Constitution Committee will be holding informational meetings to review Article IX-Judicial Branch and to explain the voting process at the Bingo Hall on May

15, 2018 at 5:00 p.m. and at the Zeba Community Hall on June 18, 2018 at 5:00

p.m. Also watch for posters, radio presentations, KBIC’s website/facebook, and

handouts for more information.

Respectfully submitted,

Constitution Committee Members: Sarah Smith, Michael Cardinal, Lori

LaFernier, Joe Eckerberg, Gretchen Emery, Elizabeth Koski, Susan J. LaFernier

KEWEENAW BAY INDIAN COMMUNITY

OFFICE OF VETERAN AFFAIRS

Rodney Loonsfoot, Tribal Council/Tribal Veteran

Service Officer

Keweenaw Bay Indian Community

16347 Ojibwa Industrial Park Rd, Baraga, Michigan 49908

veteranaffairs@kbic-nsn.gov

(906) 353-VETS Office (906) 201-4448 Cell

OFFICE HOURS; Mon, Tues, Wed, 9 am —12 pm

PLEASE CALL TO SCHEDULE

INDIVIDUAL APPOINTMENT

*The net monthly income standard for each household size

is the sum of the applicable Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) net monthly income standard and

the applicable SNAP standard deduction.

48 Contiguous United

States:

Household

Size

Use this

amount

SNAP Net

Monthly

Income

Standard

SNAP

Standard Deduction

FDPIR Net

Monthly Income Standard

$1,005

$160

$1,165

$1,354

$160

$1,514

$1,702

$160

$1,862

$2,050

$170

$2,220

$2,399

$199

$2,598

$2,747

$228

$2,975

$3,095

$228

$3,323

$3,444

$228

$3,672

Each additional member

+ $349

Alaska:

Use this

amount

Household

Size

SNAP Net

Monthly

Income

Standard

SNAP

Standard Deduction

$1,255

$273

$1,528

$1,691

$273

$1,964

$2,127

$273

$2,400

$2,563

$273

$2,836

$2,999

$273

$3,272

$3,435

$285

$3,720

$3,870

$285

$4,155

$4,306

$285

$4,591

Each additional member

FDPIR Net

Monthly Income Standard

+ $436

NOTICE OF

COMMUNITY

MEETINGS

The Constitution Committee will be

holding Community Meetings regarding the Amendment to the Constitution Article IX Judicial Branch. KBIC

Members are encouraged to attend

one of the sessions.

May 15, 2018, at 5:00 pm

Bingo Hall, Baraga, MI

June 18, 2018, 5:00 p.m.

Zeba Community Hall, Zeba, MI

Michigan Indian Legal Services

Free Legal Aid Clinic

For Low-Income Native Americans

Do you need advice or assistance with a pressing legal problem, and you think your income may fall lower than federal poverty guidelines? If so, come to the free legal clinic on:

Friday, May 25, 2018

9:00 A.M. TO 3:00 P.M. (No appointment necessary)

1st Floor Conference Room, KBIC Tribal Center

Issues may include (among others):

Wiikwedong Ogichidaa Society Monthly upcoming meetings, held at 6:00 pm — May 16, June 20, July 18, August 15, and September 19. Meetings are subject to

change. Special meetings for Powwows/funerals will be

announced.

— ANNOUNCEMENT FOR VETERANS —

Rodney Loonsfoot has been appointed by the State of

Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency as the Independent

member of the Baraga County Trust Fund Committee on

04/10/2018. Congratulations!

(10) Midaaswi



Family law



Treaty rights



Housing



Juvenile delinquency case



Child Welfare and ICWA



Garnishment and attachment

of per capita distributions

PLEASE MAKE SURE TO BRING ALL THE PAPERWORK