All You Need To Know About The Keweenaw Bay Indian Community (2009)

GIIKENDAAM

CHIWIIKWEGAMAG

All You Need To Know About The Keweenaw Bay Indian Community

Onaabani Giizis - Crusty Snow Moon - March 2009

Issue 57

Tribal Council Members:

TRAGEDY, TOO CLOSE TO HOME

On many occasions as we visited the Donald

LaPointe Medical Facility, we were greeted by the

cheerful face of Chelsey LaFernier. This young

mother of two beautiful children certainly did nothing to deserve the terrifying life-ending event she

endured within her home. Twenty-three-year old

Chelsey LaFernier, a victim of domestic assault,

died in those evening hours on Thursday, January

22, 2009,at the hands of her significant other.

Chelsey, who was raised in the Keweenaw Bay

Indian Community, had the beginning of a promising career ahead of her. After working as a temporary clerk for the Community, shifts at the Pines

Convenience Store, and fulfilling a six-month temporary hire at the Donald LaPointe Medical Facility,

Chelsey had just been hired, the week prior to her

death, to a full time position as the Public Health

Nurse Secretary at the Medical Center. Her coworkers were happy to have her back on a regular

basis. Chelsey was ecstatic to have been chosen

in the permanent office position.

Chelsey had attended the Baraga Area

Schools, graduating from the alternative high

school. She worked at the Ojibwa Casino and attended Michigan Tech University for a period of

time before moving downstate to Grand Rapids,

where she was employed with AAA of Michigan.

She had relocated back to the reservation just last

year, and as she worked for the Community, she

attended classes at Gogebic Community College

working towards a better life for her and her children. These dreams came to a violent end, one

that will be remembered for a long time by family,

friends, and this community.

Words will never explain the pain her parents,

Harry LaFernier and Roberta Sheldon feel, and

continue to live with each and everyday. Her assailant, twenty-three-year-old Raymond Daniel Kejuan Silas, has left six-year-old Alexxus and threeyear-old Davohn to endure a childhood without the

mother who adored them.

On the evening hours of Thursday, January

22, 2009, Chelsey Lynn LaFernier was stabbed to

death. Raymond Daniel Kejuan Silas was the suspect of the crime. Michigan State Police attempted

to apprehend Silas shortly after the incident as the

vehicle he was reportedly driving was spotted on

US 41. According to press releases issued by the

Michigan State Police, the State trooper had pursued the vehicle for a short distance when the vehicle intentionally became involved in a head-on

traffic accident with another vehicle near the

Baraga Plains Road, just south of L’Anse, Michigan, on US 41. The suspect refused numerous

verbal commands made by the State Trooper

Carter who attempted to arrest the suspect. The

suspect, Raymond Daniel Kejuan Silas, lunged at

State Trooper Carter who then fired on Silas. Silas

was pronounced dead on arrival at Baraga County

Memorial Hospital.

Keweenaw Bay Indian Community Tribal Police

were assisted with the investigation by MSP Forensic Laboratory, MSP Calumet and Negaunee

posts, Baraga and L’Anse Village Police Department, Baraga and Houghton County Sheriff’s Department, and Bay Ambulance.

Warren C. Swartz, Jr., President

Susan J. LaFernier, Vice-President

Toni Minton, Secretary

William E. Emery, Asst. Secretary

Jennifer Misegan, Treasurer

Elizabeth D. Mayo

Michael F. LaFernier, Sr.

Elizabeth (Chiz) Matthews

Jerry Lee Curtis

Frederick Dakota

Gary F. Loonsfoot, Sr.

Isabelle H. Welsh

SPECIAL POINTS

OF INTEREST:

•

•

•

Chelsey LaFernier, died as a result of domestic

assault. She was brutally killed by her boyfriend.

She will be missed by family, friends, coworkers

and the Community.

•

•

•

DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AWARENESS

Tragedy Too Close To Home Domestic Violence Awareness

February 7, 2009, Tribal

Council meeting

Anishnaabek Healing Circle

Opens—ATR Program

Fifth Annual Mid-Winter

Powwow

Eat Right! In March: Ideas

For Building New Food Habits

Ojibwa Housing Authority

News

Drug Conviction Report

Aabinoojiiyens

New Employees

•

The act of a family member, partner or ex•

partner who physically or psychologically domi•

nates another is known as Domestic Violence

• Ojibwemowin

(domestic abuse, spousal abuse, or intimate

partner violence). Domestic violence is often re• Deepest Sympathy

ferred to as the violence between spouses, but

also includes cohabitants and non-married intimate partners. Domestic Violence occurs in all cultures. Perpetrators of Domestic Violence

are people of all races, ethnicities, religions, sexes and classes. Domestic Violence is perpetrated by both men and women. There are many forms of domestic violence, including

physical violence, sexual abuse, emotional abuse, intimidation, economic deprivation and

threats of violence. Domestic Violence is a criminal matter which includes physical assault

(hitting, pushing, shoving, etc.), sexual abuse, and stalking. Emotional, psychological and

financial abuse is not criminal behavior; they are forms of abuse and many times leads to

criminal violence.

Domestic Violence may begin with angry words, a shove or a slap. Few persons would

stay in a relationship if the first time they were together included being beaten. Courtship is

the time we are usually on our best behavior. We see the best in each other. We are taught

to overlook many characteristics that later on we see as flags (i.e., jealousy, keeping tabs on

each other, wanting to know where the other is at all times, very kind at one time and very

cruel at another time). Domestic Violence can also include hair pulling, name-calling, killing

of pets, threats, child abuse, rape, stalking, food thrown in the face… and it includes murder.

Many times domestic violence is kept behind closed doors. Victims want to believe that it

will never happen again. Abusers want to believe they won’t be violent again. Without intervention, the violence will continue and will get worse. Victims are unable to seek help, afraid

to seek help, psychologically believe there is no problem, or it (the violence) will go away

and everything will be alright. Victims believe, or hopefully think, things will get better, and

sometimes they do for awhile. Sometimes they don’t. Sometimes they end with a tremendously tragic ending. Domestic violence does not just stop.

Violence in families is often said to be inter-generational; meaning that it is passed down

Continued on page five.

(1) Bezhig

February 7, 2009 — Tribal Council Meeting

The Tribal Council held their regularly

scheduled Saturday Tribal Council meeting on

February 7, 2009, at the Ojibwa Casino Resort

Conference Room in Baraga, Michigan. Warren C. Swartz, Jr. presided over the meeting

with Susan LaFernier, William E. Emery, Jennifer Misegan, Jerry Lee Curtis, Michael F.

LaFernier, Sr., Gary F. Loonsfoot, Sr., Elizabeth “Chiz” Matthews, Elizabeth D. Mayo, and

Isabelle Helene Welsh present. President

Swartz shared numerous Thank You and For

Your Information items addressed to Council.

Warren “Chris” Swartz, Jr. gave the President’s report for January 2009. Swartz indicated he re-appointed Roger Duschene to the

Farm Bureau Committee. The President’s office was contacted by Stacey Tadgerson of the

Dept. of Health and Human Services regarding

an opportunity for the community to participate

in a government to government consultation

meeting regarding health issues. Ms. Tadgerson was advised to contact our Health Director, Carole LaPointe, to coordinate a meeting

date.

Council met with OCC President, Debra

Parrish, to work on a Memorandum of Agreement. At the end of January, the Memorandum of Agreement between the Keweenaw

Bay Indian Community and the Ojibwa Community College was approved.

Council has received notice that the Tribal

Court case titled Susan LaFernier, et. al vs.

Debra Williamson has been dismissed. The

Tribal Court issued an advisory opinion on Majority Vote.

Laura Rogers from the Department of Justice SMART Office has been advised that

Chief of Police, Dale Dakota, will be attending

training in Houston, Texas, regarding the

Adam Walsh Act. This is an ongoing training

being offered to tribes to help them comply

with the requirements of the Adam Walsh Act.

The President indicated he has advised the

attorney to request an extension regarding the

compliance time frame for the Adam Walsh

Act.

CEO Larry Denomie, CEO Assistant Sarah

Smith, and Tribal President Swartz attended

an Ojibwa Senior Citizens’ Council meeting

during the month of January at the request of

the OSC President, Sandra Pittsley, to help

resolve some ongoing issues with use of the

van and access to the building. These matters

have procedures in place and appear to be

working well.

At the request of William Carlson, Negaunee Township Supervisor, a meeting with the

Council and Mr. Carlson has been scheduled

for mid-February regarding the status of the

Casino project at the former Marquette Airport,

signage for the trail system at the Michigan

Mining Industry Museum and replacement of

boards around the hockey rink in the city of

Negaunee.

Commercial fishermen requested assistance to attend a workshop held downstate

which will help them market their catch, learn

about current trends in the market, and alternative ways to store and package fish. Council approved their request.

Sarah Smith, Attorney John Baker and

Tribal President Swartz, met with Baraga Village representatives, Pat Dompier, Paul Mayo,

Roy Kemppainen and others on the upcoming

waterline project planned for Old US 41 later

this year. On 02/06/2009, Tribal Council approved the agreement with the deletion of the

word “construction” in the agreement.

Sarah Smith and Tribal President Swartz

met with Dave Osmak of the BIA, to formulate

a yearly-plan for Council approval to spend ten

-percent monies from timber sales. Mr. Osmak suggested we have a plan to spend out

the account. Suggestions to the Council included: setting up scholarships in the forestry

field, wildland firefighter training and equipment, and staff wages for miscellaneous tim-

(2) Niizh

ber sales.

Attorney John Baker, Chuck Brumleve and

President Swartz attended a consultation

meeting with USEPA region 5 personnel in

Chicago, IL. Included in the discussions were

Kennecott Eagle Minerals Company (KEMC),

Eagle Mine Project Underground Injection

Control Permit, and the implementation of requirements under the National Historic Preservation Act. The Community respectfully disagrees that EPA does not need to complete

compliance with the NHPA’s requirements until the time EPA finally determines that a UIC

permit may be issued to KEMC. EPA has

taken the position that NHPA consultation and

compliance need not be complete at the time

EPA issues a draft permit and notice of a public comment period. This is incorrect and contrary to the express requirements of EPA’s

rules governing the processing and issuance

of UIC permits and applicable agency precedence. The meeting went well, and the Community had the opportunity to express its’ concerns.

Susan LaFernier gave the Vice President’s

Report. We all need to commit to do our part

to make a difference to protect our environment and change the world. Please keep

learning on how to save and conserve energy

to protect the Earth. Vice President LaFernier

continues to emphasize that every month is

“Energy Awareness Month,” and our theme for

the year will be a “Commit to Conserve” Campaign. There are everyday measures we can

do to reduce air pollution, conserve water, reduce/reuse/recycle/re-buy materials, and prevent pollution in general. All of this information

is available on the EPA.gov and energy.gov

websites, and our Natural Resource Department has given great tips in the newsletter.

Vice President LaFernier attended the Ingham County Circuit Court appeal hearing in

Lansing, MI, on whether the Michigan Department of Natural Resources made an error in

granting a land use permit to the Kennecott

Eagle Minerals Company for its proposed

nickel and copper mine on the Yellow Dog

Plains. They plan to construct surface facilities for the underground mine on 120 acres of

State land and they will have exclusive use of

the land for decades. Last February, the National Wildlife Federation, the Huron Mountain

Club, KBIC, and the Yellow Dog Watershed

Preserve filed suit in opposition to this permit.

Judge Manderfield stated she would be issuing a written ruling at the conclusion of the two

-hour hearing. She did not give a timetable for

her decision.

We have not yet been informed of the decision made by the administrative hearing officer

in our contested case hearing regarding the

mining permits for the Yellow Dog Plains. The

second reading of the Mineral Exploration and

Mining Regulatory Ordinance was held. The

purpose of the ordinance (78 pages in length)

is to regulate exploration and mining activities

within the territorial jurisdiction of the KBIC.

Revisions will be made prior to the final third

reading.

The DEQ has scheduled a Public Hearing

on the Humboldt Mill Permit Application for

public comments and for a question/answer

discussion on Wednesday, February 18, 2009,

at the Humboldt Township Hall in Champion,

Michigan. Kennecott submitted plans for the

proposed Mill permit application to the DEQ

back on December 26, 2008. They are proposing to reuse the existing facilities to process ore from the proposed mine to concentrate

and then ship the concentrate to Canada and

other places. The DEQ will accept written

comments on the application from interested

persons until March 18, 2009.

Vice President LaFernier asks all to remember to continue to pray for, and honor our

veterans and service men and women and

their families, for those who are ill, have lost

loved ones and for our economy struggles.

Susan LaFernier ended with a statement on

behalf of the Chelsey Lynn LaFernier family.

“There are not enough words to explain the

great passion and love we have felt from all of

you everywhere during the recent tragedy and

loss of Chelsey. I know that many, many

times we all have needed each other and

would not have been able to go on without our

friends and family.

Thank you for your

prayers, support, calls, hugs, food, flowers,

and the list goes on and on. We will never forget all of your acts of kindness and help. We

have a great Community and let us always

continue to love and care for others. Thank

you.”

Larry Denomie gave the CEO report for

January. The coming year will be one of the

most difficult and trying years most of us will

ever have to endure. It will require many disciplines, hard work, team approaches to problem solving as well as every staff member’s

involvement in overcoming the difficult times

we will face. The CEO’s office is committed to

achieving the goals and objectives set forth by

the Council. We will be working closer than

ever with every department to ensure that we

are doing everything conceivably possible to

not only survive the difficult times we face but

to become a stronger organization capable

and able to meet the demands of the world we

live in so that the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community continues to be a prominent figure in

Indian Country.

During the New Years Day Bingo session

there was some confusion and miscommunication in relation to the amount of the Bonanza

prize. Players were initially told that the

amount of the prize for that game was $1000.

After the game was played and a patron won,

only $100 was awarded. In a review of the

situation by enterprise management, it was

determined an error had occurred and the winning patron was paid the full $1000. Reasons

leading up to this mistake have been remedied, and it will not happen in the future.

As reported last month, Council accepted

the ICDBG Grant in the amount of $600,000

for the expansion of the Community Center

Project for the Early Childhood Education Facility. We have submitted this $3.8 million project for consideration of the plan to Obama’s

stimulus package as shovel ready. Other projects have been submitted under the stimulus

plan and for FY’2010 appropriations requests

from Congressman Stupak’s office and Senator’s Levin and Stabenow’s offices.

These

projects include four from the Economic office

for Renewable and Alternative Energy Projects

and Business Opportunities, four through the

Natural Resources Department for Hatchery

Upgrades, Silver River Baseline Data Collection, Sand Point Stamp Sand Cover and related work and Construction of a Waste Transfer Station. Two additional projects are being

submitted from the CEO’s office which includes upgrading the Village of Baraga Water

Intake System Infrastructure and Sand Point

Lighthouse Restoration.

Ojibwa Housing Authority has geared up for

additional funding through the stimulus and

appropriations plans and has posted 20 new

jobs. As of yesterday (02/16/2009) the stimulus package had passed the House and is expected to be voted on by the Senate in the

next few days.

A plan is being developed through the

Natural Resources Department in partnership

with the Superior Watershed to create a summer youth crew. The Superior Watershed

would employ a crew leader who will work with

a group from our summer youth workers to

educate them in the area of natural resources.

There will be classroom type work along with

hands on field training.

A more suitable environment for the toddlers served by our Pre-Primary Program will

Continued on page eight.

Anishnaabek Healing Circle Opens

Confidential, Toll-Free Call In Access Center

There is a new program to increase your chances for success in recovering from substance abuse and other addictions. Even if you have

struggled for years, there is new hope for recovery with the Anishnaabek Healing Circle “Access to Recovery” (ATR) program and its new,

confidential toll-free Call In Access Center, which you can reach at 1866-945-7332.

The Anishnaabek Healing Circle is a healing circle of friends, community members and substance abuse professionals who will walk with

you on a journey to wellness. If you or a loved one in your family is

struggling with drugs or alcohol, then you can get the help you need to

break the cycle of addiction.

With the Anishnaabek Healing Circle, you have more choices than

ever before to design a recovery program that is just right for YOU. You

receive personalized vouchers for the clinical treatment and recovery

support services you want. The program is confidential, and it’s free.

Recovery can include mental, physical, emotional, and spiritual support based on your individual needs. Maybe you think counseling will

help you. Perhaps working with a traditional healer would be most helpful. All these choices and many more, are now yours to make. You decide on the services you want. You choose the providers you want. You

decide what is best for you. And you can walk the journey to wellness

confidentially.

The Anishnaabek Healing Circle is a gift from the Creator to the

Three Fires People. The gift is now. With help from a federal Access to

Recovery grant, for which the Inter-Tribal Council of Michigan successfully competed with twelve federally recognized tribes, we have a threeyear period of time to do something about the disease of addiction, one

person at a time.

We have extra financial and human resources available through this

grant to make a difference, starting with YOU. Maybe now is your time

to move on to a happier life. You can do it!

Who is eligible?

All the enrolled members of the twelve collaborating tribes in Michigan (including ours) and other Native Americans residing in the tribes’

service areas are eligible for the Anishnaabek Healing Circle. Nonnative family members are also eligible. There is no charge to eligible

clients.

change. You make an appointment with the provider and receive services.

It’s as simple as that. You choose the services you think will be

most helpful in your recovery, and you choose the providers you want.

Some Interesting Facts

The ATR grant is for a little over $11.5 million over three years. The

12 tribes committed to this project include more than 55,000 enrolled

members living on or near reservations in 51 of Michigan’s 83 counties.

The target is to help 5221 people during the three-year period. So far,

over 1000 people have joined the Anishnaabek Healing Circle and more

are choosing to seek a happier life everyday. We have providers in the

system who are specifically trained to help people with methamphetamine, so if methamphetamine is affecting you or a loved one, please

don’t hesitate to join the Anishnaabek Healing Circle. Call the new, confidential toll-free Call In Access Center, at 1-866-945-7332.

How do I get started on the healing path?

There is no “wrong door” for entry into the Anishnaabek Healing Circle. You may refer yourself or be referred through a tribal program,

other network providers and other sources. The easiest way to get

started is to just pick up the phone and call the new, confidential tollfree Call In Access Center at 1-866-945-7332. You may also contact

your local tribal substance abuse program directly. All Michigan tribal

substance abuse programs are ATR Access and Care Coordination

Centers. Regardless of how you enter the program, you are not expected to enter the Anishnaabek Healing Circle alone. You will be assigned a Care Coordinator who will stay with you throughout your journey.

The Details

First, the Call In Center or your local Access and Care Coordination

Center will determine your eligibility by performing a brief screening. If

the screening shows a need for clinical treatment and/or recovery support services, you will be registered for the program and referred to a

certified addictions counselor to receive a full clinical assessment. If you

are only seeking recovery support services, you will also receive a brief

screening and be referred to an ATR authorized recovery support provider. Based on the level of care you need, you will receive a service

voucher and a list of service providers from which to choose. You will

also be assigned a Care Coordinator who advocates for you and helps

you navigate the system.

You select and make an appointment with the provider(s) of your

choice. You may work with several different providers during your time

in the program, depending on circumstances and as your needs

“TAXI”

BARAGA COUNTY RESIDENTS CALL:

(906) 231 3330

L.L. LYNX TRANSPORT IIC P.O. BOX 787 BARAGA, MI 49908

Reduced rate considerations for those needing

routine rides to class or work. Call for details.

•

WE ALSO PROVIDE VEHICLE LOCKOUT SERVICES DURING REGULAR

BUSINESS HOURS.

BUSINESS HOURS: 10 A.M. — 2 A.M. Mon-Sat/Sun 3 P.M. — 12 A.M.

1ST STEP COUNSELING SERVICE

If you are interested in starting or buying

a business and don’t know what

to do next…

Call Tina Durant @

(906) 353-2626 at

the Anishinaabe Anokii

Center.

She will set you up with an appointment

with a certified business counselor in the

Baraga County area. Sessions are free and

confidential.

To place an ad,

submit an article,

or relate information or ideas on

possible articles

contact: Lauri Denomie

at newsletter @ kbic-nsn.gov

or call 906-201-0263.

To be added to the

mailing list or

to correct your mailing address,

contact the enrollment office at

(906) 353-6623 ext. 4113.

(3) Niswi

Our Deepest Sympathy

Chelsey Lynn LaFernier

June 26, 1985— January 22, 2009

Chelsey Lynn LaFernier, age 23, of

Baraga was suddenly called to Heaven on

Thursday, January 22, 2009. She was

born in L'Anse on June 26, 1985, the

daughter of Harry LaFernier and Roberta

"Birdie" Sheldon. Chelsey attended

Baraga area schools and graduated from

L'Anse Alternative School. She worked at

the Ojibwa Casino and attended Michigan

Tech. Chelsey then moved to Grand Rapids for a short time and worked for AAA of

Michigan and attended college. She

moved back to Baraga to be near her family and to further her education. Chelsey

had worked at the Pines Gas Station and

was currently employed as a secretary/

receptionist at the Tribal Medical Center.

She was taking classes through Gogebic

College. She was a member of Keweenaw Bay Indian Community. Chelsey

dearly loved her children, and they were

always her #1 priority. She loved being

with them and doing things with them.

Chelsey enjoyed shopping, going to garage sales, camping and being with her

family.

Chelsey is survived by her loving family; children, Davohn A. LaFernier and

Alexxus T. DeCota, mother, Roberta

"Birdie" (Jim) Sheldon of Baraga, father,

Harry LaFernier of Baraga, sisters, Lily

Leinonen of Houghton, and Amber (Chris)

Weigel of Spring Lake, NC, step brother,

Jay Sheldon of Green Bay, WI., stepsister, Sara J. Sheldon of Green Bay, and

step-grandparents, William and Barbara

Sheldon of Ishpeming. Numerous aunts,

uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins also

survive. She was preceded in death by

her grandparents.

Funeral services for Chelsey were held

on Thursday, January 29, 2009, at the

Reid Funeral Service and Chapel in

L'Anse with Father George Maki officiating.

DRUG

CONVICTION

REPORT

In a continuous effort to reduce the

illegal use of controlled substances in our

community, the Drug Task Force has requested the publication of pertinent information regarding any convictions of the

Controlled Substances section of the KBIC

Tribal Code §3.1706. The Tribal Court has

agreed to comply with the Drug Task

Force’s request and will publish a Drug

Conviction Report on a routine basis.

Amber Soli, case # 08-385, Controlled

Substance (use) – 1st offense

Factual Basis: Defendant tested positive

for Hydrocodone with no prescription while

on drug restricted probation.

Sentenced on 01/09/2009 to:

1. $200 fine, of which $50 will be suspended pending successful completion

of probation.

2. 90 days jail, 70 days suspended and

credit for time 20 days served.

3. 12 to 24 months standard drug and alcohol restricted probation with the $10

monthly fee to run concurrent with case

#’s 08-363, 08-376, 08-377 and 08-384.

(4) Niiwin

Continued next column

4. Defendant is responsible for any lodging, drug testing, tether or PBT costs.

Robert Ekdahl, case # 08-289, Controlled Substance (possession) – 1st offense

Factual Basis: Defendant did have in his

possession the controlled substance marijuana when an arrest was made.

Sentenced on 01/30/2009 to:

1. $500 fine.

2. 12-24 months standard drug and alcohol

restricted probation with a $10 monthly

fee.

3. The Defendant is subject to random

PBT’s and drug testing and will be responsible for the cost of those tests and

any lodging fees.

4. 90 days jail, 80 days suspended pending successful completion of probation,

and the Defendant shall serve 10 days

jail.

5. The Defendant shall complete 10 hours

of community service.

6. A Conservator will be appointed and will

be responsible for the management of

the Defendant’s finances for the duration

of probation.

7. Probation for all cases (08-289, 08-324,

08-325 and 08-381) is to run concurrently.

Robert Ekdahl, case # 08-381, Controlled Substance (use) – 2nd offense

Factual Basis: Defendant failed a drug

test and admitted to using the controlled

substances marijuana and cocaine.

Sentenced on 01/30/2009 to:

1. $750 fine.

2. 12-24 months standard drug and alcohol

restricted probation with a $10 monthly

fee.

3. The Defendant is subject to random

PBT’s and drug testing and will be responsible for the cost of those tests and

any lodging fees.

4. 180 days jail, 150 days suspended

pending successful completion of probation, and the Defendant shall serve 30

days jail.

5. The Defendant shall complete 10 hours

of community service.

6. A Conservator will be appointed and will

be responsible for the management of

the Defendant’s finances for the duration

of probation.

7. Probation for all cases (08-289, 08-324,

08-325 and 08-381) is to run concurrently.

Travis Rajacic, case # 08-023, Controlled Substance (possession) – 1st offense

Factual Basis: Defendant did have in his

possession the controlled substance Hydrocodone.

Sentenced on 02/09/2009 to:

1. $500 fine.

2. 180 days jail, 90 days credit for time previously served, 90 days suspended.

Defendant is financially responsible for

lodging costs and any fees associated

while lodged, if any.

3. 6-12 months alcohol and drug restricted

probation with the $10 monthly probation fee. Defendant is financially responsible for drug testing and PBT’s, if

any.

4. The Defendant is to attain a substance

abuse screening and is to follow through

with the recommendation of that screening until successfully discharged.

Remembrance

Vanessa (Nessa) Joan Gauthier

2/13/08 – 3/8/08

If Tears Could Build A Stairway

If tears could build a stairway

and memories were a lane

We would walk right up to heaven

and bring you back again.

No farewell words were spoken

No time to say goodbye

You were gone before we knew it

and only God knows why

Our hearts still ache in sadness

and secret tears still flow

What it meant to lose you

No one will ever know

But now we know you want us

To mourn for you no more

To remember all the happy times

Life still has much in store

Since you'll never be forgotten

We pledge to you today

A cherished place within our heart

Is where you'll always stay

Author Unknown

Sadly missed by Mommy, Grandma &

Uncles--Josh, Tom, Dustin;

Grandpa DeRoche, Uncles

Aunties--Carmen, Nellie, Tricia, Sandy, and

Aunties

Special Friend Rusty

KBIC Health

Department

Patients:

Contract Health Service funds through

Indian Health Services have been depleted for: Hospital Fees, Physician

Fees, Emergency Room Fees, Ambulance Fees, Optical Fees, and Diagnostic Testing.

The KBIC Tribal Council has allocated

funds (The Tribal Health Fund) to cover

the above services for KBIC enrolled

members ONLY during this shortage.

*To be eligible for Tribal Health Fund

you must be a KBIC member and reside

within the Contract Health Services delivery area (CHSDA) which is on or near

reservation land located within Baraga,

Houghton, or Ontonagon counties.

Questions or concerns can be directed

to Becky Tussing, RN, Associate Director,

at 353-4521. Thank You.

Spring Ahead!

Daydreaming about

the warm rays of the sun? What better

way to beat the winter blues than by preparing for the upcoming planting season.

Whether you plan to grow a garden or just

like to care for your lawn, there are many

ways to make this spring your greenest

ever.

Growing food crops, herbs and flowers

from seed can be a rewarding experience,

renewing our connection to the earth. To

get started, choose organic seeds and

plants whenever possible. Why? Conventionally grown seeds are treated with heavier applications of synthetic fertilizer, insecticide and fungicide than even conventionally grown vegetables. Organic seeds are

produced on farms that do not use synthetic fertilizers and pesticides. Seeds are

grown under the strict guidelines for organic farming. Buying organic seeds sup-

Attention Baraga

County Veterans:

There is emergency funding

available for Baraga County

Veterans. For more information

contact Commander Richard

Geroux at the American Legion

Post 444 in Baraga (353-6235)

Or Charlie Sliger at the L’Anse

VA Office (524-5454).

KBIC HEAD START

ENROLLMENT

The KBIC Head Start and Early

Head Start will begin accepting applications for the 2009-2010 school

year beginning March 1, 2009, thru

June 15, 2009. Applications will be

available at the KBIC Tribal Center,

KBIC Health Clinic, and KBIC Head

Start and & Early Head Start Center.

Continued from page one—Domestic Violence

from one generation to the next, and that violence is learned in the home. While people

learn from experience, we can also use our

free-will and choose to be non-violent. Growing up in a home with violence may make violence more acceptable to some, but others

learn from being so close to abuse they commit themselves to a peaceful life. People can

choose!

The factors that push a person to be violent

have a lot to do with what happens outside the

home. This includes movies, the educational

and political systems, religious beliefs, music

and how people react when someone is violent. Do they laugh, find excuses, or applaud?

Or do they intervene, stop the abuser, and

support the victim?

Domestic violence also affects our children.

They watch, listen and often experience that

physical violence themselves. They learn that

verbal, physical and emotional violence are

ugly, but acceptable in family relationships.

Children are victims of domestic violence just

by being forced to live with it.

Wanda Seppanen is the Victims of Crime

Advocate (VOCA Worker) on the Keweenaw

Bay Indian Reservation. Wanda indicates that

Continued next column.

ports this farming practice, the seed growers, and an overall healthier environment.

Can’t find organic seeds at the local garden supply store? Local food co-ops often

have organic seeds. Organic seed companies are also readily available on the

internet.

When landscaping, purchase native

plants instead of exotic ornamentals. Native plants have adapted to their specific

region over a long period of time; because

of this, native plants have many benefits.

Native plants:

￭ Have low maintenance and upkeep.

￭ Do not need frequent watering or fertilizer applications.

￭ Are resistant to local pests and diseases.

￭ Provide habitat to wildlife.

￭ Are a link to the regions history and culture.

within the last decade (ten years) she has assisted/interacted with 2856 victims, many of

whom she has assisted on numerous occasions. The statistics for this decade of victims

include 120 survivors of child physical abuse;

326 survivors of child sexual abuse; three survivors of DUI/DWI; 1451 survivors of domestic

violence; 136 survivors of adult sexual assault;

60 survivors of elder abuse; 28 survivors of

adults who were molested as a child; one survivor of homicide; 32 survivors of robbery; 518

survivors of assault; 20 survivors of a violent

crime; 18 survivors of economic exploitation

and fraud; 41 survivors of harassment; seven

survivors of aggravated assault; and 45 survivors of malicious destruction of property.

As the VOCA (Victim’s of Crime Advocate)

Worker, the typical domestic violence case for

Wanda to respond to begins with a phone call

from a local police unit. But many of times,

she receives a telephone call from a victim

who just needs someone to talk with. Wanda

responds to assist women and men whom are

of many races and are Keweenaw Bay Indian

Community victims of crimes (589 white/

Caucasian survivors; eight Black survivors; 27

Hispanic survivors; one Asian survivor; and

2231 Native American survivors).

One such survivor, who wishes to remain

anonymous, stated in a recent interview, “In

light of what has happened this past month in

our Community and as a person who has personally been through and still to this day deals

with the effects of domestic violence, I see that

there is a need for us to become more active

with this crime as a Community to strengthen

the families who suffer from domestic violence

and for people who know someone who is being abused to learn what steps to take to get

them help.

What happened to Chelsey makes me realize how lucky I am to be alive. A little over a

year ago, I was a victim of domestic violence.

It was not my first time as a victim of domestic

violence but hopefully my last. Every now and

then I think and recall the moments of asking

God to get me home to my kids this one last

time, and I would never ask again.

Our community does not realize the statistics on domestic violence, but it is never too

late for us to develop the services needed to

help families like my own in order to stop the

cycle of domestic violence.”

There is help available to make you safe

and to help you get out of the abusive situation

you may find yourself in. Contact your local

shelter home. Baraga County’s Shelter Home

can assist you by calling the crisis line at 5247078. Wanda Seppanen can be reached by

calling her office at 353-4533 or cell 201-0200.

Look for native plants at local plant

nurseries and at annual conservation district tree, shrub and plant sales.

If fertilizing is necessary, try using organic fertilizers on your garden or lawn as

opposed to chemical containing varieties.

Chemical fertilizers tend to spur fast plant

growth leaving them more susceptible to

pests and disease. Chemical fertilizers

have added salt which kills beneficial microorganisms in the soil, and they are

more easily mixed with water which leads

to fertilizer nutrients washing away before

reaching plant roots. Organic fertilizers,

on the other hand, encourage soil microbes, release nutrients more slowly for

steady growth, and bind to the soil to reduce nutrient runoff. Some types of organic fertilizers are: compost, worm castings, manure and fish meal. If starting a

compost or worm bin is not an option,

many types of organic fertilizer are conveniently available to purchase.

NOTICE

Please contact Debra L. Picciano at the

Community Assistance Programs Office –

at [906] 353-8137 – if:

You need assistance with your heating or energy bill, or

weatherization - are a

member of a Federally

Recognized Indian Tribe and you live in the

counties of Baraga, Houghton, Keweenaw,

Ontonagon, Dickinson, Iron, Gogebic or

Marquette – you may be eligible for assistance through the income based KBICLIHEAP Program; Or

You need Priority I - Emergency Assistance with energy,

housing,

food,

prescription,

transportation - or Priority II –

GED Testing, or limited job retention services - and are a member

of a Federally Recognized Indian

Tribe and you live in the counties of

Baraga, Houghton, Keweenaw, Ontonagon,

Dickinson, Iron, Gogebic or Marquette –

you may be eligible for assistance through

the low-income based KBIC-CSBG Program; Or

You need Emergency

Assistance - are a KBIC

Tribal member and you

live in the counties of

Baraga, Houghton, Keweenaw, Ontonagon, or

Marquette – you may be

eligible for assistance with

– tires, auto repair, medical travel, dental/

braces, or other emergency through the

non-income based KBIC-Tribal Emergency

Assistance Program.

Other services provided – BIA General

Assistance Program; Senior/Disabled Heating Assistance; Senior/Disabled Assistance Program - Call if you 353-8137 if you

have any questions, need to request an application or just want to talk.

(5) Naanan

Fifth Annual Mid-Winter Powwow

The Keweenaw Bay Indian Community’s Cultural Committee organized their Fifth Annual Mid-Winter Powwow held on January 24, 2009, at

the Niiwin Akeaa Center. The day began with breakfast with the Council at 10 a.m., followed by a “Honoring Our Tribal Council” presentation

at 11 a.m., where current residing council members were honored and

presented with a gift of appreciation. A poem written by the late Adam

Leon Lussier was cited.

We need to create

a world where

people can peacefully live

and peacefully choose

like a world wide

Indian Reservation

that peacefully awaits.

The Keweenaw Bay Indian Community’s Cultural Committee recognized and honored Miss Keweenaw Bay, Tashina Emery Kauppila, and

two Keweenaw Bay Tribal elders — Matt Whetung and Barbara Mantila

within the scheduled events.

Grand entries occurred at 1 p.m. and 6 p.m. Afternoon attendees

enjoyed a hoop dancer (Megan Tucker), a Pink Shawl Honor Dance and

a Potluck Feast. Songs were provided by Woodland Singers (host

drum) and invited drums, Four Thunders, Summercloud, Bahweting

Singers, and Loon Travelers. Ted Holappa served as Master of Ceremonies, George Gauthier as Arena Director with Joe Jacker as Assistant Arena Director.

Honored Elder, Barbara Mantila

Tribal Council members left to right as they were presented

with a gift of recognition—President Warren “Chris” Swartz,

Jr., Secretary Toni Minton, Treasurer Jennifer Misegan,

Asst. Secretary William “Gene” Emery, Jerry Lee Curtis,

Elizabeth “Chiz” Matthews, and Isabelle H. Welsh. Missing

from photo: Vice President Susan J. LaFernier, Elizabeth

D. Mayo, Michael F. LaFernier, Sr., Frederick Dakota, and

Gary F. Loonsfoot, Sr.

Barbara Mantila was born on March 31, 1928, in Zeba, Michigan, and was raised

on the Keweenaw Bay Indian Reservation. Barb married Ed Mantila in 1944, and

together they raised six children. Due to medical conditions, Barb recently has

been residing in Minneapolis, Minnesota, with her daughter Mavis. Barb was unable to travel today to receive her recognition due to medical treatments. Barb's

family accepted honorarium gifts on her behalf. Barbara’s son, John Mantila, presented the Community with a message written by Barbara.

“I want to thank you from the bottom of my old heart for the honor you have bestowed on me today. I would have loved to be there but the chemo treatment I had

on Friday has left me too tired. I want to tell you that I have lost my hair! What a

sight! Now besides false teeth, hearing aids, walkers and eyeglasses, I have added

a wig to all of this. And they call this the golden years! Don’t believe it! It is really

the “aids” years—with all of the aids you need to get along.

One thing I’d like to mention, and I really want to emphasize to the women here

today, listen to your body. Ovarian cancer is often diagnosed too late. The major

symptoms are bloating, feeling full quickly, abdominal pain and other gastrointestinal problems. Don’t hesitate to question or even change doctors. If you can’t push

for yourself (being assertive and demanding) think of your daughters and granddaughters and do it for them! Be your own advocate! Let no one dismiss your concerns. Be tenacious in being heard and getting help. If you think something is

wrong and don’t get the answer that seems right, try another doctor and another

doctor. Us Indian women must be more demanding with our health care providers.

I will be seeing you all soon and thank you again. I love all of you.”

~ Barbara Spruce Mantila

Honored Elder, Matt Whetung

Family of Barbara Mantila as she was honored as a Keweenaw Bay

Indian Community Elder.

KEWEENAW BAY INDIAN COMMUNITY

OFFICE OF CHILD SUPPORT

SERVICES

427 N. Superior Ave. • Baraga, MI 49908

In Tribal Court Building

Phone: 906-353-4566 • Fax: 906-353-8132

• Email: ocss@kbic-nsn.gov

“Your Children…Our Priority”

We provide the following services:

• Establishment, Enforcement and

• Location of Custodial and

Modification of Child Support Orders

Non-Custodial Parents

• Paternity Establishment

• Community Education

tp://www.kbic-nsn.gov/html/ocss.htm

(6) Ningodwaaswi

Matthew Hail

Whetung

was

born on July 5,

1923, to Joseph

and

Charlotte

( B l a k e r )

W hetung

in

Curve Lake, Ontario, Canada.

Matt never married, however he

had loads of

n e p h e w s ,

nieces, and lots

of cousins. Matt

worked for 50 years in logging camps as far back as crosscutting was used. Matt is

an avid Detroit Lions, Red Wings and Detroit Tigers fan. His motto is “You support

the teams from the state you live in.” Matt is a member of the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community and the Ojibwa Senior Citizens. Matt is a great hunter and fisherman. He had the eye of an eagle and taught his relatives how to hunt, except for

Myrtle who could not see or hear. There were nine siblings in the family (five from

the first family and four from the second family). “We could go on and on about our

brother Matt as he is a joy to all of us. If there are relatives or friends who would

like to speak with Matt, drop in anytime and visit him at BaySide Village in L’Anse.”

Meet Jadyn Chaudier, born

12/08/08, to Diana and Jason

Chaudier. Jadyn weighed 8

lbs. and was 20 ½ inches long

at birth.

Meet Willow Anne Rexford,

born 01/15/09, to Betsy and

Chris Rexford. Willow weighed

8 lbs. 7 oz. and was 20 ½

inches long at birth.

Meet Joshua Stump, born

11/01/08, to Alicia Jacker and

Steven Stump, of Baraga, MI.

Joshua weighed 8 lbs. 5 oz.

and was 21 ½ inches long at

birth. He is now four months

old and his Indian Name is Eyabay (Head Male).

Meet Robert Elijah Joseph

Mongozid, born 01/16/09, to

Charlotte Loonsfoot and Ron

DeCota. Robert weighed 8

lbs. 12 oz. and was 19 inches

long at birth.

The University of Michigan Medical School

Summer Science Academy

June 14-27, 2009

(left to right) - Junior Head Female Dancer, Jade Chaudier;

Head Female Dancer, Summer Cohen; Head Male Dancer

Donald Shalifoe Sr.; and Junior Head Male Dancer, Robert

Voakes Jr.

Pictured above is Miss Keweenaw Bay, Tashina Emery Kauppila (left), as she acknowledges the Eagle Staff carried by Head Veteran, Stanley Spruce (center). Spruce (also

pictured below) led the KBIC Color Guard in Grand Entry.

Men’s Traditional Dancer

Summer Science Academy (SSA) is a two-week residential summer

enrichment program sponsored by the University of Michigan Medical

School (UMMS) Diversity and Career Development Office

(DCDO). SSA brings together highly motivated current 10th and 11th

grade high school students throughout Michigan to experience campus

and medical school life. Current medical students and SSA program

alumni serve as student leaders and mentors. During the two-week session, the student leaders stay in the dorm with participants and provide

classroom tutoring, intellectual and social stimulation, one-on-one and

small group mentoring, and insight into college and medical school life.

During the day, SSA participants attend classes taught by experts in the

field and participate in fun-filled evening events highlighting cultural diversity, self-development, and the arts.

The Diversity and Career Development Office is committed to increasing the diversity – in the widest and most inclusive sense – of medical

school enrollments and thereby helping to create a well-trained, diverse

physician workforce committed to working with underserved and disadvantaged populations to reduce health disparities. All students with an

interest in medicine and health disparities are encouraged to apply. In

keeping with its goal of increasing the diversity (broadly defined) of medical school enrollments, DCDO particularly encourages applications from

students who come from groups that are underrepresented in medicine.

For instance, some applicants may come from economically disadvantaged backgrounds or from racial and ethnic groups that historically have

been underrepresented in medicine, or may attend schools with largely

socio-economically disadvantaged or underrepresented student bodies.

Other applicants may come from parts of Michigan (such as rural areas)

whose residents historically have been underrepresented in medicine or

lacked access to medical services.

The University of Michigan Medical School takes great pride in SSA

and in the program’s ability to increase the opportunities for high school

students to gain valuable exposure to the world of medicine.

For more information contact:

Yolanda Campbell, Health Career Programs Manager

Telephone: (734) 764-8185

Fax: (734) 615-4828

Email: umms.ssa@umich.edu

Application deadline is March 13, 2009.

For application,

see website: http://www.med.umich.edu/medschool/ssa/\\

Fancy Shawl Dancers

Grass Dancers

Women’s Traditional

(7) Niizhwaaswi

February 7, 2009 Council Meeting continued from page two.

soon exist. Lisa Denomie, Director of PrePrimary, and Tyler Larson, Youth Coordinator,

have developed a plan to move the PrePrimary Program into the Community Center

next week. This move will put the young children and dedicated staff into an environment

more suitable to meet the goals of the program.

The renovation of the hallway between the

entrance to the President’s office and the Legal office has been completed for the new

Tribal Council Records Room. Plans are underway to relocate the Police and Conservation Departments to the former KBIC Tire

Shop. Plans on how to use their current space

are under consideration at this time.

Amy St. Arnold, Education Director, has

been on medical leave for a period of time.

She is expected to return on February 16,

2009. The CEO’s office has been handling

her duties. CEO Larry Denomie thanks Sarah

Smith, Executive Assistant, for her hard work

and dedication during this time. Ms. Smith did

indicate that Amy’s organization within the department made the task much easier, and she

is to be commended for this factor.

Council has passed a motion to move forward with the renovation project of the Donald

A. LaPointe Health Center. This renovation

will expand the facility and services by including additional office space, patient care and a

pharmacy. The approximately $850,000 project is funded in large part by an ICDBG Grant

in the amount of $600,000 with the rest coming from Maintenance and Improvement funds

through the Indian Health Service. The project

is also being submitted for consideration under

the Obama Stimulus plan.

Misuse and abuse of the internet has been

a growing and concerning problem within the

organization. Several departments have had

to deal with the issue and have reported how

time consuming it is. The Tribe does have a

policy regarding internet use but since dealing

with the issue with these departments, CEO

Larry Denomie stated it is necessary to take a

proactive measure. The CEO’s office will be

holding a department head meeting and will

provide some training to help them understand

how counter-productive the activity is and how

to deal with it.

CEO Larry Denomie, Sarah Smith and

President Swartz attended a Ojibwa Senior

Citizens’ meeting to assist in a conflict between the Director and the Seniors’ group relating to access to the building and van use.

The problems were resolved by passing along

the Tribe’s Vehicle Use Policy and creating a

manner for individuals who needed access to

the building the ability to gain access while still

maintaining security.

Plans are being made to bring forward a

proposal regarding life insurance coverage

which has the potential of covering every

Tribal member regardless of where they live.

The policy would, after analyzing current costs

will support it, replace the Burial Expense and

Grave Marker funds. A similar one was

brought forward last year to consider, however, this one has fewer conditions and is less

expensive.

The Memorandum of Agreement between

the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community and the

Ojibwa Community College has been approved.

This agreement allocates nearly

$600,000 to the College in moving forward

with their plans to gain Candidacy Status and

Accreditation.

The College did request

$120,000 more but due to financial obligations

throughout the Tribe, they received the same

amount that was allocated last year.

The Tribe’s Language Program recently

experienced a change but is moving forward

as planned. Gary Loonsfoot, Jr., has been

appointed Interim Language Coordinator. Earl

Otchingwanigan has made final selections for

the apprentices and the mentors. The six apprentices are: Joanne Racette, Lisa Denomie,

Joe Dowd, Liz Julio, Terri Denomie and Dale

Shalifoe. The six elder mentors are: Beverly

Lussier, Loretta Hugo, Shirley McKasey,

Janice Shalifoe, John Jacker and Peggy Dunn.

Two classes under the direction of Earl have

occurred after some adjustments to the program were made to come in line with the written and approved goals and objectives of the

program. Interim Director Gary Loonsfoot, Jr.

and CEO Larry Denomie met with Earl and are

very encouraged and honored with Earl’s commitment and gift of the program to the Community.

On February 3, 2009, Vice President

LaFernier, Becky Tussing, Assistant Health

Director, and CEO Larry Denomie met with a

group from our current property and liability

insurance company in an attempt to gain a

better understanding of the nuts and bolts of

Wellness Programming. A Wellness Program

is much more than they initially thought it

would be. One of the first steps will be to form

a team or committee to work on getting the

program organized.

CEO Larry Denomie traveled with Vice

President LaFernier, Treasurer Misegan, and

Council members Chiz Matthews and Jerry

Lee Curtis to a conference facilitated by the

Michigan State University Extension titled

Tribal Governance which was held at the Turtle Creek Casino and Hotel in Williamsburg,

Michigan. Nearly all Michigan Tribes attended

and were provided with the opportunity to

learn and network with others. Some of these

skills will be shared with the department

heads.

President Swartz read the Secretary’s Report on behalf of Toni Minton. During the

month of January 2009, the Tribal Council had

one regular meeting and three special meetings. The regular Tribal Council meeting was

held on January 10, 2009, and is reported in

the February 2009 Tribal Newsletter. The following actions occurred during the special

meeting held on January 8, 2009: approved

minutes of February 24, 2006, October 9,

2008, and October 29, 2008; appointed Roger

Duschene to the Farm Service Agency Committee: agreed to accept the $600,000 ICDBG

Grant for an Early Childhood Education Expansion Project and to seek other funding to

cover the $3.8 million in additional costs; approved the Women’s Retreat Contract with

Michigan Tech; denied Tribal member request

KB01-09; amended the Emergency Funding

Policy to include moving expenses for Tribal

members not currently in our service area who

are moving back to the reservation; approved

the Independent Contractor Agreement with

Chuck Brumleve; approved Tribal member request KB02-09 for $531.07; approved an extension of the agreement with Richard Tuisku

better known as “Dick Storm”; and agreed not

to review request KB03-09 as it was already

reviewed by the Ojibwa Housing Board. The

following actions occurred during the special

meeting held on January 9, 2009: approved

Resolution KB1648-2009 application for Historic Preservation Grant Category I and Resolution KB1649-2009 application for Historic

Preservation Grant Category IV; and approved

the Fiscal Year 2009 budgets. The following

actions occurred during the special meeting

held on January 15, 2009: approved the installation of five IGT Participation games in Marquette; approved the removal of two obsolete

games in Baraga; agreed to remove all participation games from the Pines Slots and replace

them with Tribally owned games; donated

$3000 for Tribal fishermen to attend the Commercial Fishing Workshop in Mackinaw City;

approved the Service Agreement with UP Engineers and Architects for installation of a new

monitoring well at the former Pines Gas Station; and approved the US Department of the

Interior US Geological Survey Joint Funding

Agreement for stream gauges on the Yellow

Dog Plains.

Jennifer Misegan presented the Treasurer’s Report for January 2009. Treasurer

Misegan indicated she attended a Tax Management for Tribes Seminar in Minneapolis,

Minnesota, on January 26-27, 2009. She received a large amount of information and has

shared the handouts with Council regarding an

overview of both Federal and State Tax Laws,

legal incidence of applicable taxes and tax exempt financing bonds.

The signature cards for all bank accounts

have been received,

and

Council is currently in the process of completing them. Check signing is more than what it

sounds. It is an actual approval of the disbursement and requires both the knowledge of

the accounting policy as well as the basic discernment of each department’s budget.

Council met on February 6, 2009, with

Francis LaPointe, CFO, Patricia Gerard, Pines

Manager, Gerald Cadeau, Slot’s Manager,

John Mantila, Casino General Manager, and

Sarah Smith, Assistant CEO to discuss the

slot machines located at the Pines. After a

thorough financial review, Council has agreed

Renovation project plans for the Donald A. LaPointe Health Center will expand the facility and services by including additional office space, patient

care and a pharmacy. Shown above is a 3-D view of the renovated facility plans.

(8) Ishwaaswi

February 7, 2009 Council Meeting continued from page eight.

to remove the slot machines operations at the

Pines. The machines are not performing as

initially projected. We are all aware of difficult

financial times, and unfortunately it does not

appear that a change will take place soon. If

the future economy picks up, Council will consider this venture at that time.

Treasurer Misegan spoke of the conference she attended, Tribal Governance, with

Vice President LaFernier, Council members

Chiz Matthews and Jerry Lee Curtis, and CEO

Larry Denomie. (Details were covered in the

CEO report.)

Vice President Susan LaFernier requested

a meeting be scheduled to revisit the Comprehensive Plan with the Community for comments.

President Swartz requested Vice

President LaFernier to coordinate dates to

meet on moving forward with the Comprehensive Plan and receiving involvement from the

Community.

Council member Gary Loonsfoot, Sr., requested information on committee openings.

There are currently six committees which will

have openings this year in reference to those

committee’s by-laws. Consensus of the Council was to have committees submit their board

meeting minutes to the Council monthly.

Committee’s Chairs and/or representatives will

be asked to attend alternating Saturday Meetings for public awareness and to give updates

on what is happening with each Committee.

Vice President LaFernier will organize a calendar.

President Warren “Chris” Swartz, Jr.,

brought forward a request for Resolution KB1651-2009, Reaffirmation of GLIFWC’s 638Contract Participation. Motion by Jennifer

Misegan to postpone Resolution KB-16512009, until the Council has further discussion, supported by Gary Loonsfoot, Sr.,

eight supported (S. LaFernier, Misegan,

Curtis, M. LaFernier, Loonsfoot, Matthews,

Mayo, Welsh), 0 opposed, one abstained

(Emery), motion carried.

Treasurer Jennifer Misegan brought forth

the need to subscribe to the Bureau of Indian

Affairs Budget Reports by Michael D. Hughes,

Indian Affairs Consultant. Motion by Michael

LaFernier, Sr., to approve $1200 per year

subscription to Bureau of Indian Affairs

Budget Reports, supported by Susan

LaFernier, nine supported, 0 opposed, 0

abstained, motion carried.

Council passed Department Head Reports for December 2008; and Meeting Minutes for November 6, 2008, and November 7,

2008. Council entered into closed session

with, CEO Larry Denomie, President Warren

“Chris” Swartz, Jr., and Treasurer Jennifer

Misegan (donations) on the agenda. A motion

was made when Council returned to open session. Motion by Elizabeth Mayo to approve

the January 2009 donations to the Baraga

Booster Club Elementary Bouncers for

$500; the Pallone for Congress campaign

for $500; and the American Cancer Society

for $1000, supported by Gary Loonsfoot,

Sr., nine supported, 0 opposed, 0 abstained, motion carried.

NOTICE:

Council

Meeting

Closures—due

to inclement weather, will follow the

Baraga Area Schools. If Baraga school is

closed and there is a Council Meeting

scheduled for that day, the meeting will be

cancelled and held the following day. If

there is a delay, such as a two-hour delay,

and there is a Council meeting scheduled

for 9:00 a.m., then the meeting will be delayed until 11:00 a.m. If you have any

questions, please call Peggy Minton, Recording Secretary at 353-6623, ext. 4112.

WIC PROGRAM

WIC PROGRAM Federal Regulations require that state agencies establish procedures to

ensure that the public has an opportunity to

provide comment on the development of the

WIC Program State Plan of Operations.

The Michigan Department of Community

Health will accept written comments regarding

the operation of the WIC Program in Michigan

between March 1, 2009, and April 30, 2009.

Comments may be related to any aspect of the

operation of the WIC Program in Michigan.

These comments will assist the Department to

constructively review WIC operations and

make improvements in the operation of the

WIC Program in Michigan. Comments should

be mailed to:

WIC Division

Michigan Department of

Community Health

Lewis Cass Building

320 S. Walnut

Lansing, MI 48913

or emailed to: MichiganWIC@Michigan.gov

In accordance with Federal law and U.S. Department of Agriculture policy, this institution is

prohibited from discriminating on the basis of

race, color, national origin, sex, age, or disability.

To file a complaint of discrimination, write

USDA, Director, Office of Adjudication and Compliance, 1400 Independence Avenue, SW, Washington, D.C. 20250-9410 or call (800) 795-3272

(voice) or (202) 720-6382 (TTY). USDA is an

equal opportunity provider and employer.

Seeking Princess

Candidates

The KBIC Pow Wow Committee is

seeking essays from young women who

are interested in representing the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community as Princess for 2009-2010.

Eligible Young Women:

• Must complete application;

• Must be an enrolled KBIC member

(enrollment card required);

• 13-18 years of age;

• A good role model (socially and

academically);

• A traditional, jingle, or fancy shawl

dancer;

• Alcohol and drug Free.

The essay must be written by the candidate and contain each of the following:

• A biography about yourself;

• Your future plans;

• What our culture means to you;

• Why would you like to represent the

tribe as its Princess;

• What you do/can do for the tribe

(community involvement)

Essays may be typed or neatly handwritten, must be signed and include

your address and telephone number.

Applications are available at the

Tribal Center. Applications must be

submitted by Monday, March 16, 2009.

Submit your essay to the Tribal Center addressed to the Pow Wow Committee. Essays will be accepted until 4:30

p.m. on Wednesday, April 15, 2009.

Diabetic Foot Care Clinic

Care includes nail trimming

and foot exam.

Fridays in the KBIC Dental Clinic.

March 6th ~ April 3rd ~ May 1st

Tribal Dept. of Health &

Human Services

Upstairs Conference Room

11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

Lunch is provided.

Thursday, March 19th : Nutrition Therapy

Thursday, April 23rd : Monitoring

Learn how you can earn a prize

valued at $20 or greater!

For more information about these

or other events sponsored by the

KBIC Diabetes Program

please contact Kathy, 353-4519

or Heather, 353-4546.

Mark your calendars!

“We are all related.

It’s time to come together.”

31st Keweenaw Bay

Traditional Pow Wow

July 24, 25 & 26, 2009.

For more information call Tracy Emery at

(906) 353-7117 or

e-mail: temery04@hotmail.com

Schedule your visit with

Dr. Dale Schmeisser

the KBIC-DHHS Dietitian today.

There appointments available:

March—17th, 19th, 31st

April—2nd, 14th, 16th

Call 353353-8700.

(9) Zhaangaswi

Mission: To provide affordable and attractive housing opportunities in a safe

“The Keweenaw Bay Ojibwa Housing Authority recognizes the

and healthy environment to qualifying tribal members of the Keweenaw Bay community’s need when it comes to safe, healthy and affordable

Indian Community, encourage self-improvement of the community’s low in- homes. We recognize that many low income families pay a large

come families and provide employment opportunities.

share of their income to utilities because homes are not as efficient as they could be. We recognize that some tribal member

Programs and Services provided by the KBOHA:

owned homes need repairs. We recognize that tribal members

• Low income rental homes and apartments

could use some help becoming more self-sufficient. The list of

1. 158 Homes/apartments in Baraga

needs goes on. The housing authority’s mission is to provide a

2. 50 Homes in Zeba

broad range of housing opportunities for qualified tribal members

3. 40 Homes in Marquette/Harvey

while at the same time increasing their self sufficiency and provid• Supportive housing/transitional housing to help address family issues;

ing employment opportunities.

The housing authority’s strategy to meet the needs of the

• New, custom built, super-insulated homes for homeownership on Beartown

community

is to acquire as much funding as possible and create

Road;

new programs to try to meet these needs of the community. We

• Home buyer training to prepare members for home ownership;

are very aggressive when it comes to grant writing. We have

• Financial literacy training to improve members’ financial skills;

been very successful writing and obtaining additional grant funds

• Home maintenance training to improve members’ ability to maintain from many different grant sources. We have even created our

homes;

own non profit corporation to stand besides housing to better po• Home rehabilitation program to improve the condition of member-owned sition ourselves for other grant opportunities. We created the Kehomes;

weenaw Bay Ojibwa Housing & Community Development Corpo• Home emergency assistance program to remedy negative conditions in the ration last year, and we have utilized that corporation for addihome;

tional grants from HUD. In addition, the corporation can apply to

• Individual development account program – a 4:1 matched savings program other grant sources that are not available to tribal entities.

The housing authority has also been aggressive about creatfor member goals that include:

ing

employment opportunities for the community. Housing cre1. Down payment assistance for home purchase;

ated two businesses, the Ojibwa Building Supply and Ojibwa

2. College tuition and expenses for residents;

Builders, in order to create employment opportunities but to also

3. Business expansion/start-up expenses;

create revenue that can used for housing programs. Both busi4. Home repair for member-owned homes;

nesses have been profitable for the last two years since opening.

5. Credit repair for homeownership;

We have used those revenues to create our elder and disabled

6. Vehicle purchase for work/school.

prescription subsidy program that helps pay the costs of prescrip• Low cost home improvement loan program for qualifying tribal members;

tions. We have also used the funds to support our individual de• Low cost tax preparation program for residents and tribal members;

velopment account program, which provides matching funds for

home repair, vehicle purchase for work or school and credit re• Surplus FEMA mobile home program for tribal members;

• Stipend program covering mileage and child care expenses for residents pair. All these programs are used extensively by the community,

and we have waiting lists to serve more. That is why we are agattending college;

gressive in our efforts to bring in as much funding as possible.

• Affordable curbside trash service for residents and members;

That is why we continue to look for ways to provide employment

• Prescription subsidy program to reimburse tribal elders and disabled opportunities and revenues for housing programs. You might

households for prescriptions purchased;

have heard by now that housing is looking into purchasing and

• Ojibwa Building Supply Do It Best- providing tribal employment, quality af- operating the Bayshore BP gas station, car wash and Laundrofordable building supplies and profits for housing programs;

mat in Baraga. We are doing so because we believe it might be

• Ojibwa Builders construction company- providing tribal employment, quality a good way to create employment opportunities and revenues for

affordable construction, and profits for housing programs;

housing programs. We have a good business model that pro• Market rate rentals - five rental properties in Baraga and one in Negaunee- duces good results, and we believe we can do even more for the

community. Regardless of what happens with Bayshore BP gas

providing profits for housing programs.

station, we will continue to be aggressive about providing for the

needs of our community.

Student Writers

Last year Keweenaw Bay Ojibwa Community College had four students enter The Tribal

College Journal’s student writing competition

for their creative writing class. This year, even

though there is no creative writing class offered, KBOCC has six entries for the student

writer’s competition from four students.

Ryan Koski entered twice in poetry with the

poems “Ellipsis” and “Small Town Tragedy”. Ryan also entered an essay in the

memoir/narrative category called “A Birthday

Present” about how he became the Green

Bay Packer fan he is today.

Gary Loonsfoot, Sr. entered an essay in

memoir/narrative titled “Building and Bonding”

about his and Gary Jr.’s experience building

an outhouse for camp.

Georgenia Earring entered an essay in

memoir/narrative titled “Loss of a Language—

Forgotten through Time” about how she lost

her Lakota language when she went to

school.

Chris Chosa entered a story in the short

story category which says it all in the title…”Reservation Survival Guide”. Winners

will be announced by Tribal College Journal in

March.

(10) Midaaswi

Ojibwa Housing Authority

Financial Session

The Ojibwa Housing Authority will hold a two part Financial Session on March 4th and 11th,

from 5p.m. to 8p.m. at the Ojibwa Housing Authority conference room. The session will cover

areas such as tracking spending, budgeting and reviewing credit reports. This session is mandatory for anyone entering the Individual Development Account (IDA) savings program. Those interested in signing up are asked to call Natalie Mleko or Christine LaPointe at 353-7117.

Keweenaw Bay Indian Community

Employment Opportunities

For current job listings, complete job announcements, applications and closing dates contact: KBIC Personnel Department,

16429 Bear Town Road, Baraga, MI 49908-9210 or 906-3536623, ext 4176 or 4140 or visit: www.ojibwa.com.

On Call positions:

* LPN

* RN

* Unit Manager

* Account Executive/Sales

* Cashier

* Receptionist/Clerical Worker

* Pre-Primary Teaching Assistant

* Youth Program & Facility Attendant

Adult Education Teacher—closes March 6, 2009

Public Health Nurse/Case Manager, open until filled

Clinical Psychologist, open until filled

http://www.kbic-nsn.gov/html/personnel.htm

EAT RIGHT! In March: Ideas For Building New Food Habits

By: Dr. Dale Schmeisser

This year’s National Nutrition Month®

theme is EAT RIGHT! What exactly does

that mean? Well, it means different things

to different people, and for each of us, it

also means something different from one

day to the next. What’s right for a high

school football player isn’t right for an

elder, and what’s right for a busy workday

wouldn’t be right for a special holiday, for

example. But there are some general principles in choosing foods that can help

each of us get it “right” for building healthier bodies, healthier outlooks and even

healthier families and communities.

Build a good “base” eating pattern.

The foundation of any meal is carbohydrate, fat and protein foods. They provide

you with energy and the components for

building and repairing body tissues. But

your choices can affect how strong you

feel through the day, how soon you’ll be

hungry again after you eat, and how

healthy you’ll feel tomorrow, next week

and ten years from now.

As many people have discovered, all

carbs are not created equal. Whole grains

(whole wheat bread, wild rice, wheat

flakes, oatmeal, etc) will fill you up on less

calories, will keep you feeling full longer,

and will provide more vitamins than refined

grains (white bread, cornflakes, wraps,

etc). Take advantage of this for your everyday meals; try to keep half or more of

your grain choices as whole grains. And

remember, sugar and high fructose corn

syrup are the most refined carbohydrates

ever devised—use them sparingly.

As it turns out, fats are not all created

equal either. It’s true that they are all high

calorie—butter, cooking oils, regular margarine and shortening all have around 100

calories per tablespoon, so we all need to

keep the total amount in check. Some fat

in a meal is useful for absorbing vitamins,

adding flavor, and keeping you full longer

after you eat. But hard fats like butter,

regular margarine and shortening are

more likely to raise cholesterol and thus

clog your arteries than liquid fats such as

olive, canola, soy and corn oil. So again,

it’s a matter of choosing wisely. Skip the

margarine and sour cream on the potato

(try pepper or herb seasonings) but have a

little oil-based dressing on the salad.

Most Americans get plenty of protein

foods in their diet. Most of the problem

with protein foods comes from the amount

(and type) of fat that is also in the food.

Keeping meats lean (well-trimmed, removing skin on poultry, and seriously limiting

sausages, hot dogs and fast food burgers,

etc) can go a long way to decreasing calorie intake as well as cholesterol and

clogged arteries.

Consider meatless

meals several times per week—beans are

great sources of protein, and have the advantage of being high in fiber and easy on

the budget.

Go Green. It’s the slogan for improving

the planet’s environment, and from a different angle, it makes a great slogan for

improving your internal environment too.

Plenty of green veggies—or orange, red,

purple or blue for that matter—help every

body part from your hair to your toenails.

Veggies fill you up on less calories, they

are power packed with vitamins and miner-

als, and they add delicious flavors, textures and colors to a meal. The latest research suggests filling half your plate with

veggies and fruits, with the rest of the plate

divided between a protein and a starch

item. If you’re not used to eating many

veggies, try mixing them in casseroles and

sauces, adding extra veggies to canned

soups and stews. Shoot for 2 ½ to 3 cups

of vegetables daily.

Enjoy good food with others. Families who sit down to a meal together tend

to eat healthier foods, and they have all

sorts of other surprising benefits—the kids

are less likely to have problems in school,

they use less drugs, they maintain better

communication between the generations.

Although it may seem like an effort, it

makes parenting easier—from healthier

kids (because they eat better foods) to

less stress in the long run. Family members who eat in front of the TV or on the

run tend to eat faster. They eat more calories, more fat and sugar and fewer vegetables and fruits. And what do you suppose

watching a cop show does for digestion?

Remember, all foods can fit. Eating

is one of life’s great pleasures, so like all of

life’s pleasures, enjoy it wisely. In everyone’s life there is room for some of those

higher calorie treats. The trick is to remember that they ARE treats: plan them

and really enjoy them when it’s time. Having a good diet “base” helps control how

often and how much you want to indulge,

and to some extent, even how much you

are able to enjoy them.

For more information on National Nutrition Month®, some delicious recipes celebrating the Eat Right program, and sound

information on healthy eating, go to

www.eatright.org, the website of the

American Dietetic Association.

March 2009

Calendars Events

March 4 — Ojibwe Language Table;

Ojibwa Housing Authority Financial Session.

March 6 — Diabetic Foot Clinic.

March 7 — Regular Saturday Tribal

Council Meeting, 9:00 a.m., Chippewa

Room.

March 8 — Daylight savings time starts.

March 11 — Ojibwe Language Table;

Ojibwa Housing Authority Financial Session.

March 14 — “Learning to Walk Together" 17th Annual Traditional Pow

Wow

March 16 — Deadline for Miss Keweenaw Bay Applications.

March 18 — Ojibwe Language Table.

March 19 — Diabetic Talking Circle and

Education Luncheon.

March 20 — Think Spring! First day of

Spring.

March 25 — Ojibwe Language Table.

Events occurring throughout KBIC are

welcome to be listed on the Calendar of

Events. Contact newsletter@kbic.nsn.gov

to list your events. Events are more detailed FYI within the newsletter. For up-today event listings, visit www.ojibwa.com

and click on calendar. For Youth events,

see @ www.ojibwa.com, click on youth

club, or contact 353-4643/Main Office at

Youth Club, or 353-4644 for the facility attendants or the Kitchen/craft rooms.

The language page was designed from

reference of “A Concise Dictionary of

Minnesota Ojibwe” by John D. Nichols

and Earl Nyholm.

OJIBWEMOWIN

Onaabani Giizis — Crusty Snow Moon — March

i

g a a g i

i

d i z i

a i

b z d i

a i

z h a z h i

g k h i

o j

d o g

mo k a g j

i b i

t a m

q a a p k d t h a d

s i

w n w z w i

a i

q d t a z d hd a r o g

i

b a w p a k i

o i

k g z o i

h k o

a a z m d j

n s g j

o h i

k n s n a a s t

z o k a a g i

w d h q i

r i

ba i

b d w g s h r a mb h j

q n p a mi

i

t a d n k o

o b

r h j b mw g o

n a gp a i

o s b o z i

w g a i

i

t n

mw a

t dr a a o h

k b o mh a pn o w g s

Word Search

Fill-in-the-blanks

(sick) a a _ _ _ i

(sleepy) _ i i _ i i _ i n g w a s _ i

(sore) g a _ _ i i d _ z i

(spoiled) _ _ _ a a _ a d

(startled/surprised) g _ _ h k _ k a _

(stingy) z _ z _ _ g i _ i

(strong) m a _ _ k a w _ z _ i

(stubborn) z _ _ z h i _ b i _ a m

Word list

goshkokaa

banaadad

giikiibingwashi

aakozi

gaagiidizi

zazaagizi

zhazhiibitam

mashkawizii

2009 WINTER SCHEDULE

LAUGH AND LEARN — OJIWBE LANGUAGE TABLE

Wednesday Nights 7—8:30 pm,

Ojibwa Casino Resort Motel Conference Room

This is an informal learning opportunity for all ages.

Attend when you can.

For more information contact: Gary Loonsfoot, Jr. 353-4178

(11) Ashi bezhig

Earn your GED/High School Diploma

Early Childhood Programs for children

Improve parenting skills

Incentives for participation

Transportation and childcare available

Even Start is free to all Tribal

and Non-Tribal members with children

under the age of eight or

who are expecting

Call 353-8161 to register

KBIC EVEN START Family

Literacy Program

755 Michigan Avenue—Baraga, MI 49908

"Learning to Walk Together"

17th Annual Traditional Pow Wow

Saturday, March 14, 2009

Vandament Arena

(inside the Physical Education & Recreation Facility)

$3 for the day; NMU student / children 12 and under are FREE

Grand Entry 12 noon and 6 p.m.

Traditional Feast Meal and 8th Annual Hand Drum Competition

Saturday at 4 p.m., D.J. Jacobetti Center

(12) Ashi Niizh

Permit No. 5

Calumet, MI

PAID

Keweenaw Bay Indian Community

16429 Bear Town Rd-Baraga, Mi 49908-9210

U.S Postage

PRESORTED STD