# The Keweenaw Bay Ojibwe (2017)

> Briefs, arguments, decisions, and more.

URL: https://www.frixlaw.com/law-library/documents/tribal%3Akeweenaw_bay%3A1cc1de969b32f409

## Record

- **Collection:** Tribal code
- **Document type:** Tribal code

## Text

WIIKWEDONG
DAZHI-OJIBWE
The Keweenaw Bay Ojibwe
Miinke Giizis - Blueberry Moon - August 2017

39th Annual Keweenaw Bay Maawanji’iding Held

Issue 157
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
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Picture by Lauri Denomie.

Grand Entry, Friday evening, July 21, 2017, at the Keweenaw Bay Maawanji’iding.

It was a beautiful weekend for the KBIC’s
39th Annual Maawanji’iding. The event was
held at the Ojibwa Powwow Campgrounds
in Baraga, Michigan, on July 21-23, 2017.
Participants and spectators enjoyed the
songS and danced with 18 registered
drums. There were an array of specials
events. Records indicate there were 614
dancers registered.
The onset of the weekend brought a
Sunrise Ceremony on Thursday, July 20,
2017, Traditional Teachings with Darrel
Kingbird, Ground Blessing and Feast, and
Jaiya John, a sponsored speaker, brought
to the Community by KBIC Youth Programs.
Kingbird and John continued their teachings
Friday morning and afternoon. Wiikwedong
Ogichidaa (KBIC Honor Guard) presented
the colors and led dancers into the arena for
all the Grand Entries held Friday at 7 p.m.,
Saturday at 1 p.m. and 7 p.m., and Sunday
at 1 p.m. Ray Cadotte honored KBIC as
their Head Veteran Dancer; Rodney Loonsfoot, KBIC, as Head Male Dancer; and Tina
Connor as Head Female Dancer. Darrell
Kingbird served as Arena Director; Little Otter as Host Drum; and there were four invited drums: Hay Creek, Four Thunders,
Summercloud, and Woodland Singers. Emcees John Teller, Jr. and Mike Sullivan, Sr.
did an awesome job keeping everyone informed about the events.
Friday evening brought a new Miss Keweenaw Bay and Junior Miss Keweenaw
Bay to our Community. Jaycie Forcia was
crowned as the 2017 Miss Keweenaw Bay,
and Starr Dunleavy was crowned as the
2017 Miss Junior Keweenaw Bay.
Saturday’s events began with fry bread
competitions. Michelle Webster (Noreen’s
Iroquois Kitchen) took 1st place in the adult

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39th Annual Keweenaw Bay
Maawanji’iding Held
15th Annual Kids Fishing
Derby Held
Maki Crowned Lumberjack
Queen
Sea Life Yoga 2017, with local KBIC Author
Education Incentive Awards
Announced
KBIC Gov’t Employee Picnic
and Employee Incentives
KBIC Court Report
Deepest Sympathy

Picture by Lauri Denomie.

Jailyn Renee Shelifoe, 2016 Miss Keweenaw Bay
(right) assists with crowning of Jaycie Forcia, 2017
Miss Keweenaw Bay (left).
Picture by Lauri Denomie.

Dr. Jaiya John (left) with Wabanungoquay M.
Alakayak (Sandman-Shelifoe), Youth Director
(right). Jaiya has shared inspired, soulful messages with over half a million people worldwide. He was born into foster care in New
Mexico, and is an internationally recognized
author, speaker, poet, spoken word artist, and
youth mentor. Dr. Jaiya John shared his inspired messages with our Community on
Thursday and Friday, July 20-21, 2017, at the
Ojibwa Powwow Grounds in Baraga, MI.

Picture by Lauri Denomie.

Starr Dunleavy, 2017 Miss Jr. Keweenaw Bay (left)
and Hannah Harvala, 2016 Miss Jr. Keweenaw Bay
(right) at the Friday evening princess crowning event.

division, and Sam Chosa (Rez
Robin’s) took 1st place in the youth
division. This year the Powwow Committee honored Ralph Eckerberg and
Agatha Cardinal as their Honored Elders, and an Honored Elders Song was
held after Grand Entry on Saturday
Continued on page six.

(1) Bezhig

15th Annual KBIC Kids Fishing Derby Held
The Community looks forward every year to a grand event held the last
weekend of June. The 15th Annual KBIC Kids Fishing Derby was held on
Saturday, June 24, 2017, at the Sand Point Pond near the Lighthouse in
Baraga, Michigan.
Derby Coordinator and KBNRD Fisheries and Wildlife Biologist, Gene
Mensch, with the help of Keweenaw Bay Natural Resources Department
(KBNRD) staff and many community volunteers, worked to make this
event a success.
Gene Mensch said, “ We had 414 kids (0-12) register this year. Even in
the rain, this is a huge turnout. I’d like to thank all the parents and kids
who came to the event, braved the elements, and worked with us to make
sure every kid was having fun! Fifty-eight Fisher-Kids registered fish from
the pond. Our champion is seven-year-old Ayana Morin, who hauled in
two fish that had the greatest combined length. She won the championship trophy, a $100 gift certificate compliments of the American Legion
Post 444, and a trip to the prize tent on a date to be determined. We were
forced to close down certain aspects of the event due to the driving and
persistent rains and a bunch of shivering Fisher-Kids. Prizes had to be
distributed over the course of the following days. Most of the prizes have
been awarded, but we still have some work to do regarding this.”

Top four winners: (left to right) Isaiah Merver (2nd place), Ayana Morin (1st
place), Michael Rothenberger (3rd place), and Kwynn Voskhul (4th place).

The annual event honors an individual who was or is a commercial fisherman. This year’s event honored Richard L. Semasky, Sr.
Richard “Smack” Semasky, Sr. was born in L’Anse, Michigan, to the
late Joan and Delia (Santeline) Semasky, on April, 17, 1937. He had two
sisters, the late Jean and Gracie, and three brothers, the late Harold,
Elmer, and Raymond. Richard was a member of the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community, VFW, and the Ojibwa Seniors. He loved hunting, fishing,
and enjoyed cooking and smoking fish. He was also a Green Bay Packers
fan.
Richard grew up in L’Anse and later joined the U.S. Air Force in 1954.
He was a long-time fisherman from Bay Mills, until he took a job as one of
the first law enforcement officers for the Bay Mills Indian Community. He
then moved back to L’Anse and took a job with the Great Lakes Indian
Fish and Wildlife Conservation (GLIFWC) in the mid 1980’s. Richard retired from GLIFWC (with over 25 years of service) as the supervisor of law
enforcement for all Tribes surrounding the Great Lakes for the entire Western District of Michigan.
The following story was provided by Richard’s daughter, Irene. “There
are a lot of stories I can recall, but I like this one. I believe that it impacted
my Dad’s life just enough for him to change the direction of his life. He
talked about when he and his good friend and fishing partner, Lehman
Teeple, were out on the Lake pulling in their nets. Several boxes were
loaded with fish to the point where their big steel boat was weighed down,
almost to water level. They were ecstatic about the amount of fish they
pulled in their nets. Back in the day, living on the Bay Mills Reservation,
there were not many job prospects. Fishing was the way of life for most of
our members and their families.
Just as my Dad and Lehman were finishing up and getting ready to
come in off the lake, a storm came up really fast. The darkness started to
take over in a matter of minutes. The Lake, that had been as calm as
ever, took on a new look. The ripples in the waves became bigger as the
wind blew harder. They were starting to take on water. With boxes loaded
and weighing the boat down close to the water level with every wave, they
thought they were going to sink. My Dad started the motor, and they
slowly and steadily pushed towards the shore a couple miles away. They
could not afford to lose this catch, so dumping the boxes of fish was not an
option.
The darkness took over, and with every gust of wind the rain, hard and
stinging poured down on top of them. The continuous waves were already
making their journey to the shore difficult with every swell, but they continued on. With one man working the motor the other bailed water out of the
boat as fast as he could bail. Their only means of direction was that of the
headlights from their truck on shore. This was a must to never forget to
turn on the headlights when they went out to set or pull their nets, since
the weather was very unpredictable.
Minutes seemed like hours as they maneuvered through the waves
slowly making their way back to shore. They could not believe how fast
that storm came on. Later that evening, after they packed the fish with ice,
they told their spouses about the adventure they had.
News had already spread about a ship that gotten caught in that storm,
and the distress calls that came from it. Unfortunately, neither that ship,
nor its crew, survived.
The boat that was used that day on the Lake was owned by my Dad. I
seem to remember that right after this happened he changed the course of
his life. By working hard he became one of Bay Mills Indian Community's
first police officers. He worked there until he had an opportunity to move
(2) Niizh

Gene Mensch handing out as many random gifts to fisher-kids as possible in the
rain Saturday. After 15 years of Coordinating this event, he tries to maintain high
energy and excitement for the kids.... but it is getting harder with the years and
challenges, and a reevaluation of staff roles in this event is underway. Gene is
pictured above with Dekkar Denomie.

back to his native reservation,
here in L’Anse, to start the next
adventure of his life. My Dad
had lots of adventures. We kids
loved listening to his life stories.
Many who know my Dad
have been to his house, and
maybe you never noticed, or
didn’t ask, but the boat that
changed the course of his life is
still there in his backyard.
The name of the Lake they
were on that day is Lake Superior, and the date was November
10, 1975. If you hadn’t already
guessed, the name of the ship
that went down with its crew that
day was the Edmund Fitzgerald.”
~ Submitted by Lauri Denomie,
Newsletter Editor.

KBIC Staff David Seppanen (foreground) and
Brent Waranka (background), patiently and
steadily working the Big Trout Tank for the kids
in a driving rain.

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.
Luann Jossens, case #16-040, §3.403, Malicious
injury to a structure – 1st offense
Sentencing on 06/19/2017, #16-040, §3.403:
1. Fine $100.00.
2. Restitution in the amount of $162.50 to be paid to
VOCA.
3. Ninety (90) days jail, 90 days jail suspending pending successful discharge from probation. Defendant shall be financially responsible for the costs of
lodging, and any expenses incurred while incarcerated.
4. Six to twelve months of alcohol and drug restricted
probation with a $10.00 monthly fee. Defendant
shall be financially responsible for the costs of drug
and PBT tests, if any.
5. Defendant’s Tribal General Welfare Benefit Distribution Check is to be garnished in full each year
until all Court obligations are paid in full.
6. Defendant will be required to report as directed by
the Probation Office and the Sentry System.
7. Defendant is to obtain a substance abuse screening and follow all the recommendations until successfully completed. Defendant is to sign a release
of information to allow the Court to monitor compliance. Defendant shall be financially responsible for
the costs of this screening.
8. Defendant is to obtain an anger management assessment and is to comply with the recommendations of the assessment. Defendant is to sign a
release of information for the Court to monitor compliance.
William Bowman, case #17-082, §5.15, Operating
under the influence – 1st offense
Sentencing on 06/21/2017, 17-082, §5.15:
1. Fine $500.00.
2. Ninety (90) days jail, credit for one day served, 89
days jail suspending pending successful discharge
from probation.
Defendant shall be financially
responsible for the costs of lodging, and any expenses incurred while incarcerated.
3. One to three months of alcohol and drug restricted
probation with a $10.00 monthly fee. Defendant
shall financially responsible for the costs of drug
and PBT tests, if any. Defendant is to report one
time a month and as directed by the Probation Office.
4. Defendant is to obtain a substance abuse screening and follow all the recommendations until successfully completed. Defendant is to sign a release
of information to allow the Court to monitor compliance. Defendant shall be financially responsible for
the costs of this screening.
Shiloh Lussier, case #17-100, §5.62a, License restrictions – 1st offense
Sentencing on 06/21/2017, 17-100, §5.62a:
1. Fine $125.00.
2. Defendant shall be financially responsible for the
costs of lodging, and any expenses incurred while
incarcerated.
3. Thirty to sixty days of alcohol and drug restricted
probation with a $10.00 monthly fee. Defendant
shall be financially responsible for the costs of drug
and PBT tests, if any.

previously given.
Caroline Picard, case #17-026, §3.1112, Shoplifting – 1st offense
Sentencing on 06/26/2017, #17-026, §3.1112:
1. Fine $150.00.
2. Restitution is to be determined by Probation Officer
and is to be paid to the Court for processing to
Ojibwa BP.
3. Defendant is to continue with her substance abuse
screening recommendations and the Healing To
Wellness Court requirements until successfully
completed.
4. Twenty (20) days jail, 20 days jail suspending
pending successful completion of Healing To Wellness Court. Defendant shall be financially responsible for the costs of lodging, and any expenses
incurred while incarcerated.
5. The Court transfers the case to the Healing To
Wellness Court.
Clay Overmyer, case #15-013, §3.1308, Disobedience of lawful court order – 1st offense
Sentencing on 06/26/2017, 15-013, §3.1308:
1. Fine $200.00.
2. Thirty (30) days jail, 30 days jail suspending pending successful discharge from probation. Defendant shall be financially responsible for the costs of
lodging, and any expenses incurred while incarcerated.
3. Three to six months of alcohol and drug restricted
probation with a $10.00 monthly fee. Defendant is
financially responsible for the costs of drug and
PBT tests, if any. Defendant is required to report in
person to the Probation Office a minimum of one
time a month, and as directed by the Probation
Office and the Sentry System.
4. Defendant shall obtain a substance abuse screening and follow all the recommendations until successfully completed, and sign a release of information for the Court to monitor compliance. Defendant shall be financially responsible for the costs of
the screening.
5. Defendant is to actively attempt to achieve a High
School Diploma or GED and is to provide proof of
his efforts to the Probation Office
6. Defendant is to report to the Probation Office a
minimum of one time per month and as directed by
the Probation Office.
7. Defendant is to report to the Probation Office when
released from his current jail sentence.
Joel DeCota, case #94-037, §3.202, Assault and
battery – 1st offense
Sentencing on 06/28/2017, 94-037, §3.202:
1. Fine $550.00.
2. One-hundred (100) days jail, credit for 50 days
served, 50 days jail suspending pending successful
discharge from probation. Defendant shall be financially responsible for the costs of lodging, and
any expenses incurred while incarcerated.
3. Six to twelve months of alcohol and drug restricted
probation with a $10.00 monthly fee. Defendant
shall be financially responsible for the costs of drug
and PBT tests, if any.
4. Defendant is to obtain a substance abuse screening and follow all the recommendations until successfully completed. Defendant is to sign a release
of information to allow the Court to monitor compliance. Defendant shall be financially responsible for
the costs of this screening.

5.

Defendant is to obtain an anger management assessment for a domestic violence program and is
to comply with the recommendations of the assessment. Defendant is to sign a release of information
for the Court to monitor compliance. Defendant
shall be financially responsible for the costs of this
assessment.

Chad DeCota, case #17-089, §3.206, Resisting arrest – 1st offense
Sentencing on 06/28/2017, 17-089, §3.206:
1. Fine $500.00.
2. Two-hundred-seventy (270) days jail, 90 days to be
served consecutively to current jail sentence, 180
days jail suspending pending successful discharge
from probation.
Defendant shall be financially
responsible for the costs of lodging, and any expenses incurred while incarcerated.
3. Six to twelve months of alcohol and drug restricted
probation with a $10.00 monthly fee. Defendant
shall be financially responsible for the costs of drug
and PBT tests, if any.
4. Defendant is to obtain a substance abuse screening and follow all the recommendations until successfully completed. Defendant is to sign a release
of information to allow the Court to monitor compliance. Defendant shall be financially responsible for
the costs of this screening.
5. Defendant is to obtain an anger management assessment for a domestic violence program and is
to comply with the recommendations of the assessment. Defendant is to sign a release of information
for the Court to monitor compliance. Defendant
shall be financially responsible for the cost of this
assessment.
6. Defendant’s Tribal General Welfare Benefit Distribution Check is to be garnished in full each year
until all Court obligations are paid in full.
Diana Carlson, case #17-124, §5.15, Operating
under the influence – 1st offense
Sentencing on 07/05/2017, 17-124, §5.15:
1. Fine $500.00.
2. Ninety (90) days jail, 90 days jail suspending pending successful discharge from probation. Defendant shall be financially responsible for the costs of
lodging, and any expenses incurred while incarcerated.
3. Three to six months of alcohol and drug restricted
probation with a $10.00 monthly fee. Defendant
shall be financially responsible for the costs of drug
and PBT tests, if any. Defendant is to call into the
Sentry call-in system as directed by the Probation
Office.
4. Defendant is to obtain a substance abuse screening and follow all the recommendations until successfully completed. Defendant is to sign a release
of information to allow the Court to monitor compliance. Defendant shall be financially responsible for
the costs of this screening.
Richard C. Loonsfoot, case #17-123, §16.513, Operation of improper registered vehicle – 1st offense
Sentencing on 07/10/2017, 17-123, §16.513:
1. Fine $125.00.
2. Defendant shall pay his fine to the Tribal Clerk’s
office within thirty days of sentencing.
3. Defendant shall be financially responsible for the
costs of drug and PBT tests, if any.

Shiloh Lussier, case #17-101, §16.513, Operation
of unregistered vehicle – 1st offense
Sentencing on 06/21/2017, 17-101, §16.513:
1. Fine $125.00.
2. Defendant shall be financially responsible for the
costs of lodging, and any expenses incurred while
incarcerated.
3. Thirty to sixty days of alcohol and drug restricted
probation with a $10.00 monthly fee. Defendant
shall be financially responsible for the costs of drug
and PBT tests, if any (concurrent with case #17100).
Mark Edwards, case #17-106, §5.14, Reckless driving – 1st offense
Sentencing on 06/21/2017, 17-106, §5.14:
1. Fine $100.00.
2. Thirty (30) days jail, 30 days jail suspending pending successful discharge from probation. Defendant shall be financially responsible for the costs of
lodging, and any expenses incurred while incarcerated.
3. Defendant is to write an apology letter to the victim,
Gerald Joe Kirkish, and the letter is to be submitted
to the Probation Officer for review and processing.
4. Defendant is to obtain an anger management assessment and is to comply with the recommendations of the assessment. Defendant is to sign a
release of information for the Court to monitor compliance. Defendant shall be financially responsible
for the cost of assessment.
5. Defendant is to obtain a health assessment and is
to comply with the recommendations of the assessment. Defendant is to sign a release of information
for the Court to monitor compliance. Defendant
shall be financially responsible for the cost of assessment.
6. Three to six months, non-alcohol restricted probation with a $10.00 monthly fee. Defendant shall be
financially responsible for the costs of drug tests

(3) Niswi

Sea Life Yoga 2017
Imagine yourself as ”a sea star reaching out to the sea….with
your legs further than hip width apart, reach your arms up into a V
shape. Open your fingers, gently bring your head back then stretch
and reach for the sky…HOLD.” Lisa Denomie, author of Sea Life
Yoga and KBOCC’s Early Childhood Education graduate, invites
her readers (all ages) on a journey to discover themselves through
the personal wellbeing that comes from taking care of your own
health.
Lisa took KBOCC on two yoga journeys. The first journey walks
us into the Early Childhood Department’s Health, Safety, and Nutrition class for our future teachers. As Lisa facilitated and guided students through her book, they learned about breathing, effective use
of energy, and taking care of themselves. Teaching can be stressful and overwhelming! Lisa modeled how to breathe more deeply
and fully to develop a sense of peacefulness in their bodies. She
explained how breathing and physical movement can enable them
to use their renewed energy to feel more relaxed, focused, and motivated. Lastly, as students and future teachers, we forget to take
care of ourselves. Lisa stressed to the students how important it is
to take care of themselves and that yoga is a great way to move our
bodies and feel healthy.
The second journey leads us to a family fun night with Migiizinsag’s (Little Eagles) children and parents (some of the parents were
students from our first journey). It is important for children to know
about their bodies. The sea creatures illustrated in the book,
nudges the children’s imagination. Visualizing and moving as a sea
creature builds an attitude of physical movement being enjoyable
while they learn how to move more freely and with greater ease and
awareness. Yoga tends to quiet the mind. This can assist with children building listening skills and teaches children to be the “boss” of
their own bodies by modifying or changing poses.
The National Association for the Education of Young Children
(NAEYC) says it best, “without the fundamental skills, many children
opt out of physical activities, thus becoming less fit, less skilled, less
comfortable with physical effort and challenge…., such children are

Author Lisa Denomie (background) as she reads to youth,
pictured with (r to l) Ari, Izi, Danica Jahfetson.

at greater risk for childhood obesity and
other health risks of insufficient exercise
(pg. 164). With the insight and support
from the Restorative Teaching Initiative,
this yoga experience is one of many
strategies that contribute to sustained
engagement resulting in improved learning opportunities and health benefits for
Native families and their children. The
beauty of yoga is that it is for all ages!
Copple, Carol, and Sue Bredekamp. Developmentally appropriate practice in early childhood
programs: serving children from birth through age
eight. Washington, D.C.: National Association for
the Education of Young Children, 2009. Print.

Lisa’s book was published in February by Niizikweg Creations and can
be purchase on Amazon https://www.amazon.com/dp/0998434809 or
Createspace https://www.createspace.com/6843722.
To Register for KBOCC Early Childhood Classes contact Cheryl
LaRose at 906-524-8404 or clarose@kbocc.edu. To Register for Migiizinsag (Little Eagles) contact Kim Swanson or Jackie Treaudeau at 906-5248513 or www.kboccchildren.org.
~ submitted by Cheryl LaRose, Keweenaw Bay Ojibwa
Community College, ECE Initiatives Project Director.

Brittanee Gauthier as she participates with the youth.

KBIC Sponsors — Responsible Fatherhood Day
Fun and a little healthy competition between kids and their fathers were in the air on Saturday, June 17, 2017, as the Keweenaw
Bay Indian Community held their third annual Responsible Fatherhood Day.
"The purpose of today is to honor our fathers and our moms
who are here to come together for a family event to promote family,"
said Rodney Loonsfoot, organizer and KBIC Tribal Council Member.
“It's also about putting sacredness back in to our families."
The day was filled with kickball, basketball, art, and food, and it
was free to participants. "We wanted all families to come in,
granted the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community is here, but we
wanted to open it up to the community because we are all one big
family community here," said Loonsfoot.
The event also offered other community services to inform the
public on foster and family issues. "We need to let everyone know
of the great need for foster care and foster parents is, not only at
the tribal level, but at the state level," said Director of Tribal Social
Services. "This is just one event to get these groups and partners to
the table."
"I work for the office of child support, so many moms and dads
aren’t together," added Laura Mayo, the outreach coordinator, "So
mom doesn’t get enough time with the kids and neither does dad.
Events like this get families together, while they spend the whole
day together, and just enjoy each other."
Saturday's event wasn’t the only day fatherhood is honored and
celebrated with the KBIC, they also offer programs to push the sacredness of parenting. "It is to teach fathers the traditional ways of
our culture that’s slowly is being lost," said Bryan VanDyke. "It was
(4) Niiwin

a good program that was fun, we learned stuff to pass to our kids,
so they can learn the traditions."
Rodney said, “This is the biggest turnout we've had so far for this
event, and we are excited to continue it on to next year’s Father’s
Day along with starting up some additional fatherhood and motherhood programs.”
The event was sponsored by the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community, KBIC Tribal Council, KBIC Health System, KBIC Healthy Start/
Family Spirit Program, KBIC Youth Program, BALAC Grant, Tribal
Social Services, KBIC Child Support Services, and the Native
American Fatherhood and Families Association.

Starr Dunleavy (above) just enjoying
the day.

EDUCATION INCENTIVE PROGRAM
AWARDS STUDENTS
The Keweenaw Bay Education Committee
offers the Education Incentive Program to local
KBIC tribal students. Monetary incentives are
awarded at the end of each of the four marking
periods of the academic year. Students must be
enrolled KBIC members, reside in Baraga,
Houghton, Ontonagon, or Marquette counties
and must attend a public or private school. A
student’s Honor Roll status is defined according
to the requirements of their school district.
The following fifty-six students were placed
on the Honor Roll for the fourth marking period of the 2016-17 academic year:
Baraga – Ireland Chosa, Robert Curtis, Richard
Geroux Jr., Bailey Harden, Jalisa Heath,
Rylee Holm, Steele Jondreau, Kamrin
Kahkonen, Keegin Kahkonen, Georgia Lofquist,
Angel Loonsfoot, Shawna Lussier, Steven Maki,

Lyndsey Mayo, Jenna Messer, Liliana Messer,
Makenzie Messer, Kylie Michaelson, Randy
Owens III, Presley Rasanen, Alana Schofield,
Amy Selden, Tyler Shalifoe, Javon Shelifoe, Katie Strong, Kayla Szaroletta, and Nathaniel
Welsh .
L’Anse – Dysean Allen, Deija Dakota, Keira
Dakota, Sara Dakota, Shay Ekdahl, Ti’ia Friisvall, Christopher Genschow, Robert Genschow
III, William Genschow, Robert Jacobs, Dallas
Moulden, Rowen Rexford, Grayson Roe, Brian
Spruce, Charles Spruce, Alicia Stein, Marianna
Teikari, Cassandra Zasadnyj, and Paige Zasadnyj.
L’Anse-Baraga Community Schools – Stacy
DeCota and Jeffrey Heath.
Marquette – Neebin Ashbrook-Pietila, Aden
Hamalainen, Zoe Hamalainen, Anna Lindgren,
and Brenden Lindgren.
Sacred Heart Catholic – Rachael Velmer.

Gwinn – Kaitlyn Shelafoe and Taylor Shelafoe.
The following thirty-nine students received
awards for achieving Perfect Attendance:
Baraga – Ethin Awonohopay, Kamerin Awonohopay, Robert Curtis, Lealynd Dunleavy, Starr
Dunleavy, Madyson Evans, Noah Evans, Destin
Gauthier, Richard Geroux Jr., Bailey Harden,
Rylee Holm, Steele Jondreau, William Jondreau
Jr., Kamrin Kahkonen, Keegin Kahkonen, Darius
Loonsfoot, O’Dell Loonsfoot, Steven Maki,
Nicholas Owens, and Nathaniel Welsh.
L’Anse – Tokala Chosa, Alice Curtis, Deija Dakota, Keira Dakota, Michael Delich, Rion Fountaine, Brendon Friisvall, Ti’ia Friisvall, Chase
Larson, Jaycee Maki, Dallas Moulden, Grayson
Roe, Cassandra Zasadnyj, and Paige Zasadnyj.
Gwinn – Kaitlyn Shelafoe, Kimber Shelafoe,
Taylor Shelafoe, Destinee Stanton, Lacie
Stanton
(5) Naanan

Maki Crowned 2017
Lumberjack Queen
Nicole Maki, daughter of Michelle and Jeff
Maki, was crowned the 2017 Lumberjack
Queen at the Baraga 4th of July Celebration.
She is a 2017 graduate of Baraga High
School. Nicole was sponsored by Wilkinson’s
General Store.
Carsyn Osterman, daughter of Dean and
Sheila Osterman, was the second runner-up.
Alex Jahfetson was the first runner-up, and
McKenzie Barrett was named Miss Congeniality.

Pictured are Nicole Maki (left) and Carsyn Osterman
(right).

2017 Maawanji’iding Continues:
afternoon (see separate article). The Hand
Drum contest was held Saturday between
grand entries. The results were: 1st place –
Dana Goulet; 2nd place – Niizhoo Sullivan; and
3rd place – Eric Mitchell. A grand feast was
held between grand entries as well.
Late Saturday evening, A Jingle Dress
competition was held with the following results:
1st place – Jamie Awonohopay, 2nd place –
Lisa Hill, and 3rd place – Delina White. A
Woodland Special competition was held with
the following results: 1st place – Vincent
Bender, 2nd Place – Gerald White, and 3rd
place – Russell Brownwigs. Saturday’s events
ended with the adult two-step competition with
the following results: 1st place – Brian and
Melissa Jackson, 2nd place – Jerome and
Rosawre Sawapaw, and 3rd place — Mark
Kingbird and Lavender Hunt.
Sunday afternoon brought the youth twostep competition where the crowd chose Starr
Dunleavy and Preston Oja as 1st place youth
two step champions.

Adult Two-Step Champs: Melissa and Brian Jackson.

(6) Ningodwaaswi

Continued on page seven.

Picture by Lauri Denomie.
Picture by Lauri Denomie.

Preparing for Saturday evening grand entry in Keweenaw Bay are: (left to
right), Ray Cadotte, Head Veteran Dancer; Jaycie Forcia, Miss 2017 Keweenaw Bay; Starr Dunleavy, Miss 2017 Jr. Keweenaw Bay; Tina Connor,
Head Female Dancer; and Rodney Loonsfoot, Head Male Dancer.

Picture by Lauri Denomie.

Jingle Dress Winners: (l to r) 1st place –
Jamie Awonohopay, 2nd place – Lisa Hill,
and 3rd place – Delina White.
To place an ad, submit an article, or relate
information, ideas, or possible articles
contact: Lauri Denomie at (906) 201-0263,
or e-mail: newsletter@kbic-nsn.gov.

Picture by Lauri Denomie.

Youth Two-Step Winners: Starr
Dunleavy and Preston Oja.

They’re all princesses to KBIC. Back row, (left to right): Jailyn Shelifoe, 2016 Miss
Keweenaw Bay; Jaycie Forcia, 2017 Miss Keweenaw Bay; Jeani Aho, Runner-up;
Aleeha Gauthier-Moulden, candidate; Alexandria Chosa Simmons, candidate;
Deija Dakota, candidate; Hannah Harvala, 2016 Miss Jr. Keweenaw Bay; (front)
Payton LeClaire, candidate; Adyson Moulden, candidate; and Kiera Dakota, candidate. Missing from photo is Lily Messer, Runner-up Junior category. Photo compliments of Stanley Spruce.

The Powwow Committee honored Ralph Eckerberg and Agatha Cardinal
as this year’s Honored Elders.

Ralph Eckerberg
“I was born in Iron County Michigan. I graduated from Stambaugh High School in 1955. I joined the Coast Guard when I was
18 and served for 23 years from 1955 through 1978 and retired as
an E9 Master Chief. I then enrolled at Michigan Technological University and graduated with a Bachelors Degree in Electrical Engineering in 1981. I went to work at Honeywell Defense Systems in
Minnesota and retired from there in 1991. I then moved to Crystal
Falls, Michigan, in 1992, and have now lived in Baraga for the last
four years. I was marred to Jean in 1956, and we have two living
children. I am a member of the Ogichidaa Society (KBIC Veterans)
and belong to the Ojibwa Senior Citizens. I own one worthless
share in the Packers Franchise, and I am a Packer Backer.”
Agatha Cardinal
“I am one of six daughters of James E. and Marcella Loonsfoot
(Shelifoe), and I have three brothers. So you can see just by the
sur names, I am related to a whole lot of the natives here on the
KBIC Rez. I was born and raised here, and I lived most of my life
here in this area. I am the mother of five daughters and the grandmother of twelve grandchildren.
I also have thirteen greatgrandchildren. I am married to an awesome man, my hubby, Michael Cardinal. I worked as a KBIC home school coordinator at the
Baraga Area Schools for 15 years, and I am currently retired from
that position. Most of my time was spent as a stay at home mother
raising my family.”
Wiikwedong
Ogichidaa
KBIC Veterans)
Meeting
The Wiikwedong
Ogichidaa Meeting
will be held on
Wednesday,
August
16, 2017,
1900 hours, at the
Wiikwedong Ogichidaa Building, KBIC
Industrial Park (off
M-38), Baraga, MI.

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
16429 Bear Town, Rd.
Baraga, MI 49908
event.
License Fee will be
(906) 353-4222
waived when the application is
received within this timeline.

KEWEENAW BAY INDIAN COMMUNITY

OFFICE OF CHILD SUPPORT SERVICES
472 N. Superior Ave. • Baraga, MI 49908
In Tribal Court Building
Phone: 906-353-4566 • Fax: 906-353-8132
• E-mail: ocss@kbic-nsn.gov

“Your Children…Our Priority”
We provide the following services:
 Establishment, Enforcement
and Modification of Child
Support Orders
 Paternity Establishment
 Location of Custodial and
Non-Custodial Parents
 Community Education

(7) Niizhwaaswi

(8) Ishwaaswi

Janet Marie Walker
(October 22, 1943—June 23, 2017)

Janet Marie Walker, age 73 of L’Anse,
MI, passed away on Friday, June 23, 2017,
at Bayside Village in L’Anse.
She was born October 22, 1943, in Detroit, MI, daughter to Roy and Mary (Morin)
Walker. At the age of two, Janet suffered
an accident that left her severely mentally
and physically disabled.
Despite her handicap, Janet retained a
positive outlook, an infectious sense of humor, and an iron will. Ice cream, puppies,
stuffed animals (especially chipmunks), and
visits from her brother always generated a
huge smile.
For the past 20 years Janet lived at
Aurora House in L’Anse, and the staff took
care of Janet as though she was family. In
a sense, I suppose she was. We greatly
appreciate their kindness and love for Janet.
Janet is survived by her brother Bill
(Ruthanne); nephews: Chris and Benjamin
(Jessica); and niece: Erin (Pete).
A private traditional burial ceremony for
family was held. The Jacobson Funeral
Home of L’Anse assisted the family.

James L. “Jimmy J” Emery
(April 25, 1962—June 25, 2017)

James L. “Jimmy J” Emery, age 55, of
L’Anse passed away unexpectedly Sunday,
June 25, 2017, at his home. He was born in
Chicago, Illinois, on April 25, 1962, the son
of the late James and Amelia (Maki) Emery.
Jimmy J attended school in L’Anse. He began fishing at a young age and made a career commercial fishing. He loved being on
his tugboats “Dough Boy” and “West Bay”.
Jimmy J was a member of the Keweenaw
Bay Indian Community and the Baraga
County Couple Pool League for the Side
Track Bar. The team were champs in 2016
and 2017. He enjoyed playing cribbage,
walking, helping people, carpentry, yard
work, teasing kids, and was an avid Bears
fan, but his true love was fishing.
Jimmy J is survived by his loving children: Daron Emery of Escanaba, Shawnee
Tolonen (Henry Smith) of Watersmeet, and
Kristyn Emery (Trevor Berger) of Escanaba;
grandchildren: Darryn, Joslyn, and Madelynn: brothers: Joseph Emery and Mark Emery both of Escanaba; sisters: Annette Emery (Ron DeCota) of Baraga and Aimee Emery (Jeff Owens) of L’Anse. Numerous
other family members also survive. He was
preceded in death by his parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, and great nephew
Jaden Forcia.
Visitation and services were held on Saturday, July 1, 2017, at the Zeba Community
Hall, Zeba, MI. A fellowship luncheon feast
immediately followed services, concluding
with an Interment in the Pinery Cemetery.
The Reid Funeral Service and Chapel of
L’Anse assisted the family.

pany, Haataja Truck’n. Work was his passion; it brought him great joy. Rudy also
enjoyed snowmobiling with his girls, boating, and ice fishing.
Surviving are his wife, Debra; daughters:
Katelyn and Autumn (Kyle Ahola); mother,
Joyce (Jim) Grgurich; brothers: Brian and
Jeff Haataja; and sisters: Cindy (Elwood)
Niemi and Kim LeClaire all of L’Anse. Numerous aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews,
cousins, and his special dog Lilly. Rudy is
also expecting his first grandchild, Ryker
Rudy.
He is preceded in death by his father,
Rudolph; and grandparents: Mary and Bill
Hannila, and Rose and Eino Haataja.
A celebration of Rudy’s life was held on
Thursday, June 29, 2017, at the Zeba Community Hall, Zeba, MI, for sharing of memories.
A fellowship luncheon was held
throughout the celebration. Burial followed
at the Pinery Cemetery with military rites
conducted by the Baraga County Area Veterans under the direction of the American
Legion Post 444. The Jacobson Funeral
Home of L’Anse assisted the family.

KBIC Enjoys a Farmer
Market Tour

Chalsea Smith and Laniceya Eagle
at Radicle Gardens.

the KBIC Health Systems (Donald A. LaPointe Medical Center) in Baraga, MI, and
returned late afternoon. Their destinations
included: 1) Baraga County Farmers Market
-- L’Anse Location. The group got to enjoy
the park and meet with local vendors. 2)
Radicle Gardens -- A local farm producing
organic foods. The group loved meeting
this little family who are making big
moves! Seeing their home and meeting
their family proves how amazing our community can be! Radicle Gardens gave an
amazing story and shared an incredible
story with the group of participants. 3) Bovine Food Stand -- It's always a great time
making a stop at the Bovine Food Stand! 4)
Marquette Farmers Marquette – People always appreciate the diverse vendors and
their day couldn't be better for walking
through and visiting each table. 5) Marquette Co-op Kitchen & Café – The group
was impressed by the fabulous work they
are doing, the beautiful facility, the tour,
and the class session. This was definitely
very informative!

Marquette Food Co-op Kitchen and Café.

A Saturday morning of fun! KBIC Health
invited all to tour our local farmers markets
and gardens. Tashina Emery, BALAC Coordinator, said, “We met farmers from all
over the U.P., learned something new at
each stop, which crops were in season, why
they choose to farm the way they do, and
eating healthy on a budget. We also got to
know our local artisans, bakers, and food
purveyors. Snacking throughout the day,
we were excited about making healthy food
choices by building a sense of connection to
the people who grow our food.”
The group of participants boarded a bus
on Saturday, July 8, 2017, at 8:45 a.m. at

Marquette Food Co-op class and tour.

Rudolph Eino Haataja, Jr.
(October 10, 1964—June 26, 2017)

Rudolph Eino Haataja Jr., age 52, of
L’Anse, MI, passed away on Monday, June
26, 2017, at Baraga County Memorial Hospital.
He was born October 10, 1964, in
L’Anse, the son of Rudolph and Joyce
(Springsteen) Haataja.
Rudy attended
L’Anse schools, was in the Army National
Guard for 10 years. He married the former
Debra Larson on August 12, 1995, in
L'Anse.
At a young age Rudy began working for
Local Roofing and Tribal Construction,
along with other odd jobs. He was with the
Baraga County Road Commission for 15
years. In 2002, he started his own com-

Shani Shelifoe and Mikah Pallas
shops at Marquette Food Co-op.

Vada Veker at Radicle Gardens.

To be added to the mailing list
or to correct your mailing address, contact the enrollment
office at (906) 353-6623 ext. 4113.
(9) Zhaangaswi

Keweenaw Bay Indian Community Holds Government Employee Picnic and Employee Incentives

Picture by Lauri Denomie.

Bean Bag Toss Tournament — 1st place winners: (left to right), Bradley Dakota and Steven
Denomie.

Picture by Lauri Denomie.

Employees recognized for ten years of services received $50.00 Pines Gift Card. Pictured (l to r),
Steven Denomie, Edward Bourdage, Robert Mayo, Jr., and Joseph Schutte. Missing from picture
are: Mark Fuller, Jean Jokinen, and Katherine Kruse.

Picture by Lauri Denomie.

Fishing Tournament —
1st place winners: (left
to right), Mary Dee
Shannahan, Elizabeth
“Popcorn”
Ma yo,
Michelle Maki, Heather
Wood-Paquet.

The Keweenaw Bay Indian Community
held their Annual Government Employee
Picnic in combination with an Employee
Recognition Event on Friday, June 30,
2017, at the Sandpoint Campground in
Baraga, Michigan.
The day began early morning with registered teams in a fishing tournament. Team
Thirty Sea Gals took first place. While the
fishing boats were out on Lake Superior, on
shore teams competed in a bean bag toss
competition. Steven Denomie and Bradley
Dakota took first place in the event. Meanwhile other employees and their guest participated in Bingo, Cribbage, and Yard
Yahtzee and won some really nice prizes.

(10) Midaaswi

Picture by Lauri Denomie.

Employees recognized for fifteen years of services received a $100.00 bonus. Pictured (l to r),
Jennifer Heath, Jerry Lee Curtis, Kim Klopstein, John Davis. Missing from picture are: Gregory
Loonsfoot, Sarah Maki, and Deborah Vizina.

Lucky 7’s catered Tacos and picnic
foods for the event. Strawberry shortcake
was served as well.
CEO, Larry Denomie III, thanked all
KBIC’s employees for everything they do in
their job which makes the government of-

fices run smooth and efficient, and each and
every position is an important. Employee
incentives were presented as described under the pictures.
~ Submitted by Newsletter Editor.

FOOD DISTRIBUTION PROGRAM ON
INDIAN RESERVATIONS (FDPIR)
FY 2017 NET MONTHLY INCOME STANDARDS*
(Effective Oct. 1, 2016 to Sept. 30, 2017)
*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

SNAP Net
Monthly
Income
Standard

SNAP
Standard Deduction

1

$ 990

+

$157

=

$1,147

2

$1,335

+

$157

=

$1,492

3

$1,680

+

$157

=

$1,837

4

$2,025

+

$168

=

$2,193

5

$2,370

+

$197

=

$2,567

6

$2,715

+

$226

=

$2,941

7

$3,061

+

$226

=

$3,287

8

$3,408

+

$226

=

$3,634

Employees recognized for twenty years of services received a $250.00 bonus. Pictured (l to r),
George DeCota, Jennifer St. George, Peggy Loonsfoot, and Carole LaPointe. Missing from picture are: Christine Beauchamp, Laura Cladas, Dale Goodreau, R. Brent Johnson, and Suzan Ollila.

FDPIR Net
Monthly Income Standard

Each additional member

+ $347

Alaska:

Use this
amount

Household
Size

Picture by Lauri Denomie.

Use this
amount

SNAP Net
Monthly
Income
Standard

SNAP
Standard Deduction

1

$1,237

+

$268

=

$1,505

2

$1,669

+

$268

=

$1,937

3

$2,100

+

$268

=

$2,368

4

$2,532

+

$268

=

$2,800

5

$2,964

+

$268

=

$3,232

6

$3,395

+

$282

=

$3,677

7

$3,827

+

$282

=

$4,109

8

$4,260

+

$282

=

$4,542

Each additional member

FDPIR Net
Monthly Income Standard

+ $434

Picture by Lauri Denomie.

Employees recognized for twenty-five years of services received a $500.00 bonus. Pictured (l to
r), Ruth Scott, Larry Denomie III, Jeanne Hirzel, Dale Dakota, Michelle St. George, and Doreen
Blaker.

Picture by Lauri Denomie.

Bean Bag Toss Tournament participants: (left to right) Nancy
Voakes, Lynelle Bolo, and Valerie
Voakes.

August 2017 Calendar


Aug. 5: Reg. Sat. Council
Meeting, 9 am, Ojibwa Casino Conference Room,
Baraga;
~ submitted by newsletter editor

Picture by Lauri Denomie.

Picture by Lauri Denomie.

Employees recognized for thirty years of services re- Employees recognized for forty years of services received a $750.00 bonus. Pictured (l to r), Duane Mise- ceived a $1,250.00 bonus. Pictured (l to r), Amy St.
gan and Arlan Friisvall. Missing from picture: Brenda Arnold and Susan J. LaFernier.
Brunk.
(11) Ashi bezhig

Tribal Council’s
July 2017 Donations
As the KBIC Tribal Council did not hold
a Saturday meeting during the month of
July, it is believed September’s issues will
outline the two-month reports. However,
donations were reviewed at the Thursday,
July 13, 2017 meeting. The unapproved
motion follows:
Motion by Susan J.

Picture by Lauri Denomie.

At the June 9, 2017 Regularly Scheduled Council meeting, Joe DeRocha visited with Tribal Council,
requesting support as he announced he was running for the state representative seat of the 109 th
District of the Michigan Legislature as a passionate Democrat. Right to left, (sitting) Treasurer Doreen Blaker, Vice President Jennifer Misegan, Assistant Secretary Toni Minton, Secretary Susan J.
LaFernier, (standing) Councilor Rodney Loonsfoot, Councilor Robert “R.D.” Curtis, Jr., President
Warren “Chris” Swartz, Jr., Councilor Frederick Dakota, Joe DeRocha, Councilor Gary Loonsfoot,
Jr., Randall R. Haataja, and Michael F. LaFernier.

Strong + Resilient,
We Rise Youth Coalition
A health resource to provide fun
for Native youth, by Native youth,
ages 11-18 years old.
MEETS BI-WEEKLY,
TUESDAYS 5 P.M.

Any questions or for more information,
contact Tashina Emery at
(906) 353-4515 or e-mail
temery@kbic-nsn.gov.

Follow on Facebook @
WeRiseKBICYouth
Add us on Snapchat —
@kbic youth

Ages 13-18, Meets bi-weekly as a health resource and to provide fun for Native youth, by
Native youth.

August 2-3, 2017
Wild Rice Camp
August 5-8, 2017
Cultural Camp
Meeting August 8, 2017,
5 p.m. Hiking River Walk
August 18, 2017
KBIC Youth Dance Fundraiser, Back to School
Meeting August 22, 2017,
5 p.m. Designing Your
Health, Back2School
Party
September 1-3, 2017,
Summer Youth Trip,
Bloomington, MN.

Permit No. 62

U.S Postage PAID

Big Rapids, MI 49307

Keweenaw Bay Indian Community
16429 Bear Town Rd-Baraga, Mi 49908-9210

PRE-SORT STANDARD

(12) Ashi Niizh

We have created Strong + Resilient, We Rise to:








Provide holistic adolescent health information,
Promotes positive youth development,
Share youth-friendly health media and current events,
Encourage healthy behaviors,
Reinforce positive messages, and
Increase cultural identity and pride.

Sponsored by KBIC Health and KBIC Youth, stiving to promote holistic health and positive
growth in our local community. Sharing the tools you need to get started shaping your
community in positive ways. By rising together, with one another, we can teach each other
lessons about self-confidence, self-respect, pride, courage, and spirituality.
Strong + Resilient, We Rise youth members:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.

Learn tips and tools to be an effective leader and change agent;
Make a positive difference in the community;
Amplify their voice and concerns through KBIC’s media channels;
Are the first to hear about opportunities for Native youth;
Travel to represent KBIC;
Generate ideas and provide feedback on new concepts for KBIC;
Boost their resume; and
Create a place where Native youth feel comfortable, empowered, and connected to
other Native youth.

LaFernier to approve the July 2017
donations as: $1,000.00 to Kalvin
Hartwig for the Anishinaabe Short
Film Project, $250.00 to the Life Outreach Center, $500.00 to the Baraga
County Fair, $380.00 to the Baraga
County Community Foundation for
the Tony Selkey Memorial Golf
Scramble, and $500.00 to Nancy
Pawlowski’s Baraga County Relay
For Life Team for a total of
$2,630.00, supported by Randall R.
Haataja.
Seven supported (S.
LaFernier, Minton, Blaker, Curtis,
Haataja, M. LaFernier, G. Loonsfoot), 0 opposed, 0 abstained, four
absent (Misegan, Dakota, R. Loonsfoot, Mayo), motion carried.

---

Source: Frix Law Library, https://www.frixlaw.com/law-library/documents/tribal%3Akeweenaw_bay%3A1cc1de969b32f409. Public record. Not legal advice.