The Keweenaw Bay Ojibwe (2019)
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WIIKWEDONG
DAZHI-OJIBWE
The Keweenaw Bay Ojibwe
Gashkadino Giizis – Freezing Moon - November 2019
Issue 184
Tribal Council Members:
10th Annual KBIC Domestic Violence Awareness Walk Held
Warren C. Swartz, Jr., President
Gary F. Loonsfoot, Jr., Vice-President
Susan J. LaFernier, Secretary
Toni J. Minton, Asst. Secretary
Doreen G. Blaker, Treasurer
Robert R.D. Curtis, Jr.
Dale Goodreau
Randall R. Haataja
Kim Klopstein
Michael F. LaFernier, Sr.
Rodney Loonsfoot
Elizabeth D. Mayo
SPECIAL POINTS
OF INTEREST
Picture by Lauri Denomie.
On Saturday, October 5, 2019, community members gathered at the corner of
McGillan and Lyons Street, a location near
the residence where Chelsey LaFernier’s
life was taken by her domestic partner on
January 22, 2009. October is National Domestic Violence Awareness Month, and
KBIC’s annual event has been named in
memory of Chelsey LaFernier. The event is
held to increase domestic violence awareness in the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community and surrounding neighborhoods.
Registration opened at 11:00 a.m. Participants received an event tee-shirt when
they registered for the event. Tribal Council Member Rodney Loonsfoot welcomed
the Community. “I appreciate everyone being here today and taking time out to participate in spite of some rain that we might get
as we go up the hill. There has been a lot
of planning done to put this event together,
and there will be a ceremony after our walk.
I’m going to share a couple of songs as we
walk up the hill. The songs I want to sing
are from when I was a little boy. One of our
lead singers, Ted Holappa, who has just
walked on to his journey, taught us these
songs. We sing these in memory of him,
domestic violence victims, and their families, whom we’ll keep in our thoughts and
prayers.”
As Rodney Loonsfoot drummed and
sang, participants walked down Lyons
street, up M-38, and onto Bear Town Road,
a 1.7 mile walk from the registration corner
to the Niiwin Akeaa Facility. At the conclusion of the walk, Four Thunders Drum gave
a welcoming song as the ceremony began.
First on the agenda was a shawl ceremony
narrated by Carole LaPointe, Team Lead,
KBIC Niimigimiwang Transitional Home Programs and Services.
“Before we begin, we ask that you all
please take a moment to reflect and remem-
10th Annual Domestic Violence
Awareness Walk Held
Harvest Feast Held
Honoring Foster Parents
Shelafoe Named Marquette Veteran of the Year
3rd Quarterly Tribal Council
Meeting Held
Criminal Report
Deepest Sympathy
Fall Chainsaw Safety Class Held
Picture by Lauri Denomie.
ber how violence has in the past and continues today to impact our nation, our state,
our community, our families, and ourselves.
It is through each of these shawls that we
collectively acknowledge those who have
been and those who continue, to be negatively impacted by violence.
Today we remember (Alexxus DeCota
placed the yellow shawl) from the eastern
direction those who represent all that is
new. We remember our children who have
suffered from abuse and neglect and are
exposed to violence within their homes.
The innocent ones are gifts from the Creator. Protect our children from harm as they
are our future.
Today we remember (Wanda Seppanen placed the red shawl) from the southern direction those who represent understanding. We remember the women survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. Women are the backbones of our
families, the givers of life. We will not judge
why she stays, why she does not report.
When she does report, we will not ask why
she does not cooperate with prosecution.
We will instead offer unconditional support
with the understanding that she is the expert
about her path of life. We honor those sexual assault survivors who made the difficult
decisions to raise their voices and share
their stories. We support those who have
chosen not to share. We will teach our children to respect other living things and also
to know the meaning of consent. We will
believe survivors and will not tolerate victim
blaming.
Today we remember (Keenan Quaderer
placed the gray shawl) from the western
direction those who represent change. We
remember who our men are also victims of
violence. They are warriors, providers, and
protectors who are strong and resilient. We
will no longer promote gender stereotypes
such as ‘big boys don’t cry.’
Today we remember (Lori Jump placed
the blue shawl) from the northern direction
those who represent positivity. We remember our elders... the wisdom keepers of the
past, and the legacy of our future generations. We remember our elders who never
realized how strong they were until they had
to forgive those who were not sorry. We
honor our elders and all that they have sacrificed for the sake of our people and the
next seven generations.
Today we remember (Joey Loonsfoot
placed the purple shawl) our LGBTQ/two
spirited who are the gifted keepers of both
the male and female spirits. We remember
they are often times abandoned or ignored.
We stand beside them in unity. We offer
acceptance instead of judgment.
Continued on page two.
(1) Bezhig
Domestic Walk continues:
Lastly, today we remember this empty chair.
We remember those who have passed from this
earth too soon. We remember those who remain unfound and pray for their safe return. We
remember those who were sent to the Indian
Residential Schools and never returned. We
remember those who did return that were never
the same. We stand together and demand that
no more communities experience the loss of
their people.
Each and everyone of us present here today
is a single thread who forms our community
shawl that holds the POWER TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE. Until our community is free from
ALL violence, THIS chair will remain empty and
we must continue to weave our threads of support every second of every minute of every day.
Help one another. Believe survivors. Be the
change. Miigwech.”
Picture by Lauri Denomie.
(Above) is guest speaker, Alexxus DeCota,
who is the daughter of Chelsey LaFernier.
“My brother and I lost our mother, Chelsey
LaFernier, to domestic violence. She was murdered by her boyfriend ten years ago. Sadly
we’re not the only ones who have lost our
mother this way. I want to break the silence of
domestic violence which has shattered our lives
loudly and violently.
In one fatal moment, after a series of beatings, my mom was hurt for the last time. She
never woke up. I’ll never hear my mother’s
sweet voice again. She’ll never walk through
the front door, never hold me or my brother, or
ever say ‘I love you,’ again. She’ll never get to
see us grow into adults, graduate, marry, have
children, or succeed. When my mom passed
away, I was six and my brother was three. We
weren't there that night she died because she
sent us to Papa Harry’s for the night.
The role I had to always take in the house
during the abuse was to always protect my little
brother. I remember the energy in the house
was tense. Mom told me not to tell anyone, especially Papa Harry. The night she was murdered, he called and told my papa about it. Her
boyfriend said he was going to kill himself. That
is when my papa called the cops. One thing I
remember, after I had realized what had happened to my mom, was that I used to hide under
my desk in second grade because I was scared
he would come and kill me next, or he would
hurt me again because I did not realize he was
dead.
The biggest impact of my mother’s death
was that my brother and I were separated. All of
my big life events became incredibly hard to
celebrate.
Growing up around the abuse
changed me physically and emotionally.
I
started having nightmares, recurring at age eight
and later as a pre-teen. I began oversleeping.
Now I have insomnia, anxiety, and depression.
When I was younger, I had a fear of failure
which caused me to feel the need to be perfect.
I was and still am very introverted, yet I am an
overachiever. As a child and pre-teen, I always
looked to people and objects to replace what I
had lost and now lacked. I was always trying to
look for parent figures. In my pre-teen years, I
lost hope which caused me to have disbelief
towards god.
In the past two years, I was stuck in an emotionally abusive relationship, and it sent
flashbacks of what had happened to my mom.
Shortly after the two-year anniversary, I finally
realized I did not deserve it, and I should not be
been obedient to failure or take all the blame,
and think that I deserved it because in all reality
no one deserves it.”
Alexxus also sang a heart-filled song.
(2) Niizh
Picture by Lauri Denomie.
(Above) is guest speaker Lori Jump, a representative of Strong Hearts, Native Helpline.
“We all know the damage done when people
experience violence, and we want it to stop not
just for ourselves but for our community. The
only way for this is to happen is to hold events
like today’s and talk about violence that we are
experiencing. It is hard to get up and say you
have been a victim of someone you loved and
cared about. It is really hard for our relatives to
reach out for help when they are experiencing it.
I started my career back in 1989. I worked
for the Sault Tribe for 26 years offering support.
I worked for Uniting Three Fires Against Violence which is a statewide tribal domestic violence and sexual assault coalition serving the
tribes located in Michigan. Today I am a representative of Strong Hearts Native Helpline which
is a national helpline for victims of domestic violence. We launched in March 2017. There was
a need for a cultural based specific helpline. We
had known it for years. When I was working
back in my community, we knew there were so
many of our relatives who live in areas where
they don’t have the help like you have here and
my community had. These people felt there
were not people to whom they could reach out;
they needed to have a place to call. Even
though there has been a national domestic violence helpline for 20 years, we also knew that
our people were not calling that helpline. We
lobbied long and hard to get one for us. We
looked at how jurisdiction is different in Indian
County, and how tribes don’t have the ability to
prosecute people, and the feds don’t pick up our
cases. It makes us feel like we don’t matter.
We do matter! We deserve to have someplace
to call when we need someone who is going to
understand, who is going to know what it is like
to live in Indian Country, and who knows what it
is like to not have the resources they need, and
who can respond in culturally appropriate ways.
This is what Strong Heart Helpline tries to do
every day. Since March of 2017, over 5,000
people have called the helpline. Our advocates
connect with them and give them the place to
tell their story. We have made 2,000 connections to resources these callers need. We currently operate seven days a week, 7 am to 10
pm. We know we are still missing calls and are
working to go 24/7 soon. We applied for a grant
earlier this year, and we have just received notice that we have been granted.
I think having Alexxus here is so important.
She is so courageous to have stood up here and
talked to you today, to have told her story, and
to have knowledge that the pain she has experienced.”
Picture by Lauri Denomie.
(Above) is guest speaker Keenan Quaderer,
Male Survivor of Sexual Assault.
“This is my first time speaking on my childhood sexual abuse, especially to a crowd.
Some of the points I want to bring up for me personally is that these kind of things are very un-
comfortable to acknowledge. If you look at statistics around the country, it’s insane how many
people go through violence and abuse. It makes
me very uncomfortable with the state of the
world in all honestly. It is up to a community to
really support people who have gone through
this abuse.
I nearly ran away from home. When I was
17, I did run away, and it took me nearly nine
years to come back to Michigan just because of
what I went through. I was ashamed that I ran
away. Confronting sexual abuse takes a good
deal of courage because victims may or may not
wish to open up about these kinds of incidents.
One reason is their trust in others is shattered.
You lose trust in people. I lost trust in a lot of
people. For a very long time, family meant nothing to me. What only mattered to me were people who proved to me that they could be trusted,
and these are people I have met across the
country. I moved all the way down to Miami,
Florida. That was as far south as I could go to
get away. Sexual abuse puts one into a long
emotional and mental stress that can really deteriorate someone’s perception of reality. For example, I did not really believe any of my family
would have believed me, they would have been
there for me, or they would helped me, so I
moved away. I ran away. Fortunately some
wonderfully beautiful people came into my life
and have been there for me constantly, and
have let me speak about these kinds of things;
it’s crazy. Sometimes we find family out there in
the world.
In witnessing or experiencing sexual abuse,
there are many different ways children express
these things. Children take in everything around
them; things adults don’t. Things that terrify
them: traumatic things. When heated arguments happen in the household of a child, they
don’t understand what is being argued about,
but they understand the anger. I don’t expect a
child under the age of seven to understand why
their mother and father are arguing so bitterly. A
home is supposed to be where a child comes to
feel safe and uncomfortable. When these kinds
of things happen in household, it becomes
somewhere they no longer feel safe. If a child
can’t feel safe in their own home, there is no real
place for them to feel safe. So it is up to not just
the parents, but for the community to speak with
children and understand them. Look around for
signs. If the child becomes unusually jumpy or
shy, it may be an indicator that something is going on; something’s not right. I’m probably just
speaking for myself, but children can get very
rambunctious, making trouble. For a long time, I
gave my mom a lot of hell. When the abuse
started, that completely changed. For me it was
different, my sexual abuse was a result of
grooming.
My mom married when I was about sevenyears-old. For the first time, I met a male role
model who actually cared for me, who gave a
damn, who would sit and talk with me, and who
would work with me. He had an extraordinary
amount of patience with me because I was a
very wild child. I wanted a father; I wanted attention; I would act out. At first it was great, at
last I had a father who cared about me. If I had
questions, he was knowledgeable about, he
would teach me. I was close to him, and he was
close to me. I was doing good, getting good
grades, and I was no longer picking fights like I
used to do. That was the hidden danger. Then
this man switched the dynamic of the relationship I had with him. It started out with just a normal pat on the back, sitting on his lap as a
young child, before it escalated to more touching. It really took many years of grooming until
the actual abuse started. There was a division
that he created between myself and my mother
where I was to keep secrets.
I think it is important to tell children that it is
okay to tell secrets. It is okay to open up. They
need people in the community who they feel
safe and who they can open up with.
I was living off the reservation for most of my
life, and I really didn’t have many friends or people I could reach out and talk with. There was
nobody who I felt close to. Isolation was one of
his weapons. He kept my mother busy and me
at home. I trusted this man. I trusted my father,
and he betrayed that trust. He molded me to
what he wanted me to be and because I felt I
had no one to talk to that was it. I couldn’t reach
out and I couldn’t speak. So like I said, it is very
important in a community that children have a
voice, and people listen and try to understand
what children are going through, and why a child
may be acting out. The child may be going
through something similar to what I did and may
not want to talk to anyone.
After my mom finally took me out of the
household, she was still unaware of what was
going on. We moved to Chassell, and she attended college. At that point of my life, I had
endured about seven years of sexual abuse on
almost a weekly basis. Once I was out of that
household and away living with just my mother,
our relationship was still strained. I still felt like I
couldn’t talk to her because of the conditioning
he put me through. The things he wanted me to
be were still there. My grades at the beginning
of middle school were of an ‘A’ student, and at
the end of middle school, I was a ‘C’ student.
When I moved to Chassell, I was a ‘F’ student,
and I dropped out in ninth grade. When this
condition started to unravel, I began to realize
what he had been doing to me for all of those
years. What he taught me was that this was
normal. When I had finally got out in the world
and had started experiencing things through my
own eyes, I started realizing exactly what he had
done. I went completely numb. I was numb for
a good year-and-a-half where I didn’t feel joy,
sadness, or anything. It was at that point that
my grandfather moved up close due to some
family complications, and I really started to open
up when my grandfather was there.
One of the foolish things grandfather did was
to show me where the key was to his gun cabinet. If any of you own guns, make sure they are
locked up, and only you know where the key is!
The length of numbness that I felt led me to try
to take my own life. I hadn’t felt anything for a
long time, so I took my grandfather’s old revolver, and I decided to play Russian Roulette
out of depression. I was a boy, and I just
wanted to see if I could do it. It was the stupidest thing I have ever done, and it still haunts me.
I hate myself for that, but it did crack me open
and I started to feel things again, but nothing
helped me.
My relationship with my mother further deteriorated, and when she was finally completed
her education, I started to develop a new relationship on-line with people all around the world.
No one knew who I was, just my user name, just
a tag. I moved from a very abusive and toxic
relationship with my stepfather to a very emotional, abusive, and toxic relationship with a
woman. This was the reason why I moved
away. It was my way out, and I took it. I ran
because once again I had no one to talk to but
this woman, and it didn’t work out. I was in that
relationship for about a year-and-a-half. I stayed
that long because I felt I didn’t deserve any better; I couldn’t do any better, and this was as
good as it was going to get.
Then I started meeting my real friends, the
people whom I now consider my family; I’m still
working on this family thing still trying to rebuild
everything. When I met my family, they were
urging me to leave this relationship as it was
extremely toxic, not only for myself but for her.
There were times when she’d leave me with a
black eye because we’d get into an argument.
One thing I want to bring up is many man are
abused too. I knew my own strength. I knew
what I could do to someone who was a foot
shorter than me and about 100 pounds lighter.
I knew I couldn’t hit her back so I decided to take
that abuse, and that was wrong. I’m a firm believer everyone has the right to defend themselves, but it is very important to understand
how to work things out in a non-violent manner.
While I was struggling in this relationship in a
non-violent manner, I was still being abused. It
wasn’t until the relationship turned completely
toxic that I decided to move out on my own. The
woman who is now my wife, was a friend at the
time, told me to move back to Michigan; however, I had not yet told her about my abuse, or
that my abuser was up in Michigan. I decided to
try to survive where I was, with no money to my
name, no place to stay, and no car. I had a very
low paying job, yet I would have lived and died
under a bridge than come back here at that time.
It was at this point my wife had come into my
life. When she started working with me, there
came that point when I felt someone is there for
me, that I could talk to, someone I could trust.
She had been there from the start of that toxic
relationship in Miami. She was there for me
every single day and I finally started opening up
to her. I also started to open up to a neighbor,
who is like a brother to me. When it came to
opening up about what I felt, what I have gone
through, it took an incredible amount of courage
because of what I said before about witnessing
or being abused, seeing how violence warped
me, warped my perception, and warped my
trust. Even though he was something like a
brother to me, someone who had never betrayed me, I remember when I first opened up to
him and my wife, I would shake, because I felt
nothing but fear of being rejected. Because
what that man did to me was still lodged in me,
his conditioning of me and what I had to say
could still rip my family apart. I believed I was
responsible and I should carry the shame. It is
because of how he programmed me that I believed I was doing the right thing. I thought I
was protecting my family by moving away and
staying quiet. That is not the case at all. I struggled very much and continued to open up; however, once I started talking about this, one friend
turned into two friends, two friends turned into
three friends, three friends turned into four
friends, and soon I had a network that supported
me. I was shocked to learn how many people I
could actually talk and speak with and that they
had been there the entire time.
It wasn’t all a walk in paradise because at
that time I also foolishly started to chug alcohol.
One of the stupidest thing I did was to think liquor gave me courage. I thought alcohol gave
me the strength to deal with the abuse. It didn’t.
It only numbed the pain that I felt and although it
was for a very short period of my life, it was still
very intense. My friends would have to watch
me all night because of mental anguish. I’m not
particularly proud of these confessions, but there
were nights when I literally just collapsed to the
ground, and they would have to pick me up because I was sobbing so hard. It was not the
right way. The right way is opening up to people
and dealing with this one step at a time, when
you feel comfortable and that it is okay. I did not
take that approach. I forced it out with alcohol
and I really paid for that, yet I survived.
After I finally realized that the problem laid
with me, deep inside, I stopped drinking for a
good six-months to a year. It was enough time
to help me seek professional help at the urging
of my friends. I struggled with the stigma of seeing a psychiatrist, psychologist, or a therapist,
would make me crazy, weird, or prove there was
something wrong with me. There was nothing
wrong with me as a person. It was the damage
that I held on to that was holding me back. It is
important that if you need someone to talk to,
reach out to a friend or a professional; don’t
carry this for as long as I did.
When I came back to Michigan, I finally told my mother what
had happened. It did tear my
family apart, but for good reasons, for the right reasons. I had
called out someone who had betrayed our trust and destroyed my
sense and her sense of family. It
was brought to trial. I remember
how hard that was, it wasn’t a
very pleasant time of my life because once again my life was put
on standstill as the legal processes worked their way, and it
was finally put on trial. I remember having to go on the stand
which was the absolute most degrading thing that I’ve felt, but it
was worth it.
It always gets
worse before it gets better.
It takes courage and strength
that everyone really does possess. I’m just a lost little boy
wandering around the
world and I believe there
are a lot of people out
there that have a lot more
strength than I do. I think
that this is something that
should be brought to light.
Silence is a predator's
best weapon and the
longer we stay silence
about these things, the
more the predators get
away with it and this is
unacceptable to me.
These things should not
be forced; they should
come out when they need
to come out, but we can’t
let this continue. I’m just
one story, and after the
trial, a lot of family memPaid political ad
bers who went through
similar things confided in me. Some of my elders told me they had carried the shame for decades. I only suffered through this for 14 years
and it boggled my mind how someone could live
with this for their entire life. While this is an uncomfortable conversation to have, it is something everyone should take very seriously and
work together. One phrase my wife taught me
that I’ve hung on to is it takes a village to heal a
person, it doesn’t take one person; it doesn’t
take two; it takes a whole community to help
one person. As long as help each other, we can
get through this; we can stop this.”
24-hour Transitional Home Helpline
(906) 353-4599
Toll-free (855) 202-8375
Strong Heart Native Helpline
(844) 762-8483
HARVEST FEAST HELD
Picture by Lauri Denomie.
Following the Domestic Violence Ceremony,
the Community held their Annual Harvest Feast.
The feast was held on Saturday, October 5,
2019, 3 p.m. in the former Big Bucks Bingo Hall
in Baraga, MI. The KBIC Powwow Committee
hosted the feast which was funded through the
Keweenaw Bay Indian Community. There were
a number of community volunteers as well.
President Warren “Chris” Swartz, Jr. welcomed
the community as Donald Chosa, Jr. prepared
the spirit plate. Attendees visited with one another while feasting on a delicious traditional
meal.
(3) Niswi
November 2019 Calendar:
Nov. 1 — Constitution Committee Meeting, 10:00 a.m., Tribal
Center;
Nov. 11 — Veteran’s Day, Gov’t. offices closed;
Nov. 28 — Thanksgiving Day, Gov’t. offices closed;
Nov. 29 — Native American Heritage Day, Gov’t. offices
closed.
~ submitted by newsletter editor
Shelafoe named Marquette’s
Veteran of the Year
Peter Shelafoe, a resident of Marquette County and a Keweenaw Bay
Indian Community Member, was named the 2019 Marquette County Veteran of the Year. Pete is an outstanding individual and member of Post
44 who is always willing to help his fellow Veterans. Pete served in the
U.S. Army from 1954-1959 where he received the National Defense Service Medal. He received his award on Saturday, October 12, 2019, at the
Elks Lodge. Pete received additional awards from distinguished guests:
Representative Sara Cambensy, Karen Anderson, Representative for
Jack Bergman, and Rodney Loonsfoot, Wiikwedong Ogichidaa Society
(KBIC Veterans).
Pete’s accomplishments include: volunteering regularly at the Jacobetti Home for Veterans; instrumental in beginning the sponsorship for the
Marquette Junior Hockey Travel Team; counseling Veteran inmates at the
Marquette Branch Prison; and one of the senior leaders within the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community Military Honor Guard.
“This is an honor that I don’t think anyone could ever say how they feel
about it. I mean it’s something unexpected and I’m just thrilled,” said
Shelafoe.
Pete Shelafoe (in uniform) with his family. Photo by Rodney Loonsfoot.
OCTOBER 12, 2019 TRIBAL COUNCIL MEETING
The Regular Quarterly Tribal Council Meeting was held on Saturday,
October 12, 2019, at the Harvey Community Center in Marquette, Michigan. President Warren Swartz, Jr., presided over the meeting with Gary F.
Loonsfoot, Jr., Susan J. LaFernier, Toni Minton, Doreen Blaker, Robert
R.D. Curtis, Jr., Dale Goodreau, Randall Haataja, Kim Klopstein, Michael
F. LaFernier, Sr., Rodney Loonsfoot, and Elizabeth D. Mayo present.
President Swartz shared numerous Thank You and For Your Information items addressed to Council.
President Warren “Chris” Swartz, Jr. gave the President’s Report (page
five), Vice President Gary F. Loonsfoot, Jr., gave the Vice President/KBIC
Cannabis Development Report (page ten), Secretary Susan J. LaFernier
gave the Secretary’s Report (page eight), and CEO Sarah Smith gave the
CEO Report (page ten). Council approved the Department Head Reports
for August 2019.
Recognized scheduled delegation/individuals: Sandra Carlson was on
the agenda with three concerns. 1) Enrollment. Who controls enrollment?
Council advised that there is an Enrollment Board. Jennifer Misegan, Enrollment Director, and Diana Chaudier, Enrollment/Licensing Coordinator,
gather the information and presents the information to the Board. They
follow an Enrollment Ordinance, Title XVII, Membership.
2) Voting in Marquette. Who controls who can vote? Sandra expressed concerns with not allowing members to vote in the Tribal Elections
who reside off of the Trust Land. Sandra also suggested that there be
term limits for Council seats. President Swartz advised that would require
a change to the Constitution. There is a Constitution Committee Meeting
the first Friday of every month at 10:00 a.m. at the Tribal Center. The
Constitution Committee has two available alternate seats open and have
expressed to the Community to bring their concerns to that committee regarding Constitution changes.
3) Christmas checks. Sandra asked if the amount was determined for
this year’s Christmas checks. Council explained what she is referring to as
Christmas Checks are now considered the General Welfare Exclusion
Checks and are funded through the Tribe’s tobacco business’ stamps.
The CFO reported recently to Council that this amount will be between,
$1,000 to $1,100 this year. Concerns from the audience questioned why
the amount was so low this year as last year $2,000 was distributed.
(4) Niiwin
President Swartz indicated, “A lot of people have quit smoking, and even I,
myself, have smoked all my life and I have quit smoking in the last year. I
hear you want us to sell more cigarettes and we are trying to create a
brand people want to buy, but it doesn’t happen overnight. It takes a marketing effort to happen and people have to get used to it. We are marketing it in a way that promotes the increase sales, but it just hasn’t happened.”
Council indicated they have asked Francois LaPointe (Hosh), CFO, to
look at credit card fees and all of the funds. President Swartz stated, “We
just talked to him last week and you know the distribution of the checks is
coming up soon. We want to gather all monies that we can and redistribute it to the Tribal members.”
Sandra and others expressed concerns about enrolled members whom
are couch surfing and those who are in Great Lakes Recovery or the
County Jail and the difficulty they have to pick up their General Welfare
Exclusion Checks. Council explained there are General Welfare Exclusion
Program Guidelines that are followed and there is a Committee who decides if the individual qualifies by their residence. If an individual falls into
a homeless status, the Program Guidelines clarifies what they should do.
President Swartz suggested, “Get a hold of the Benefits Coordinator
with these questions. Ask those questions because they are the ones who
deal with that on a consistent basis. At the Council level, we approved the
Guidelines and passed them along to somebody to administer that kind of
benefit. Jennifer Misegan, the Enrollment Director, is the Benefits Coordinator.”
Glen Bressette, Sr. is a representative of Toys for Tots and sought a
donation from the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community for Christmas gifts for
Marquette area children in need. Motion by Gary Loonsfoot, Jr. to approve $500 donation to the Marquette County Toys for Tots, supported by Doreen Blaker. Eleven supported (G. Loonsfoot, S.
LaFernier, Minton, Blaker, Curtis, Goodreau, Haataja, Klopstein, M.
LaFernier, R. Loonsfoot, Mayo), 0 opposed, 0 abstained, 0 absent,
motion carried.
Under new business: Larry Denomie III, Ojibwa Casinos General Manager, had five items on the agenda. 1) Mr. Denomie gave Council an update on the Capex Funding Budget. The Capex budget is the source of
funds used to purchase all of the furniture, fixtures, and equipment not included in the $40 million construction costs associated with the casino projects. We are approximately $120,000 to the good. I’ll go into more detail
at Council’s next meeting. 2) Mr. Denomie sought Council action to purchase four new black jack tables for Baraga and six new black jack tables
for Marquette ($4,929.50 each) plus a new pit podium for both casinos
($4,351.00 each) plus freight shipping. These are Capex Fund expenditures. Motion by Gary Loonsfoot, Jr. to approve $66,397.40 for black
jack tables and pit podiums, supported by Toni Minton. Ten supported (G. Loonsfoot, S. LaFernier, Minton, Blaker, Curtis, Goodreau,
Haataja, Klopstein, M. LaFernier, Mayo), one opposed (R. Loonsfoot),
0 abstained, 0 absent, motion carried. 3) Mr. Denomie sought Council
action for the purchase of Slot Bank and Core Switches. These are also
Capex Fund expenditures Motion by Doreen Blaker to approve
$30,941.00 (LASCO proposal) for the purchase of Slot Bank and Core
Switches, supported by Randall Haataja. Ten supported (G. Loonsfoot, S. LaFernier, Minton, Blaker, Curtis, Goodreau, Haataja, Klopstein, M. LaFernier, Mayo), one opposed (R. Loonsfoot), 0 abstained,
0 absent, motion carried. 4) Mr. Denomie indicated the Data Financial,
Inc. Bid he provided in their packet is for a currency sorter for Marquette.
The current system is 16-years-old and has failed. Everything is currently
being sorted manually. This is not a Capex Fund expenditure and will
come from the Operational Funds. Motion by Randall Haataja to approve the expenditures related to Data Financial Bid regarding the
currency sorter in the amount of $24,476.00, supported by Kim Klopstein. Eleven supported (G. Loonsfoot, S. LaFernier, Minton, Blaker,
Curtis, Goodreau, Haataja, Klopstein, M. LaFernier, R. Loonsfoot,
Mayo), 0 opposed, 0 abstained, 0 absent, motion carried. 5) Mr. Denomie sought action for a NAV Camera Change Order for the Marquette Casino. Additional changes are needed based on the locations to have better
coverage within the Casino space within surveillance. This is an additional
Capex Fund expenditure. Motion by Doreen Blaker to approve NAV
Camera Change Order expenditure ($13,641.63), co-supported by Michael F. LaFernier, Sr. and Toni Minton. Ten supported (G. Loonsfoot, S. LaFernier, Minton, Blaker, Curtis, Goodreau, Haataja, Klopstein, M. LaFernier, Mayo), 0 opposed, one abstained (R. Loonsfoot),
0 absent, motion carried.
Doreen Blaker, Treasurer, presented the October 2019 donations. Motion by Rodney Loonsfoot to approve $500 donation for the Baraga
Fire Department’s Baraga Village (Children's’) Christmas Party, cosupported by Robert R.D. Curtis, Jr. and Gary Loonsfoot, Jr. Eleven
supported (G. Loonsfoot, S. LaFernier, Minton, Blaker, Curtis,
Goodreau, Haataja, Klopstein, M. LaFernier, R. Loonsfoot, Mayo), 0
opposed, 0 abstained, 0 absent, motion carried.
Council moved into closed session (open to KBIC Members) for
FY2020 Budget Review. Council moved into closed session with two additional items on the agenda: 1) Robert R.D. Curtis, Jr. with a donation request; and 2) Gary Loonsfoot, Jr. with a personnel issue. Upon returning
to open session, Council made the following motions: Motion by Doreen
Blaker to approve FY’2020 Budget as presented, supported by Robert
R.D. Curtis, Jr. Ten supported (G. Loonsfoot, S. LaFernier, Minton,
Blaker, Curtis, Goodreau, Haataja, Klopstein, M. LaFernier, Mayo), 0
opposed, one abstained (R. Loonsfoot), 0 absent, motion carried.
Motion made by Robert R.D. Curtis, Jr. to appoint the Deli Lead position to Shawn Lamson, supported by Gary F. Loonsfoot, Jr. Seven
supported (G. Loonsfoot, Blaker, Curtis, Goodreau, Haataja, Klopstein, M. LaFernier), four opposed (S. LaFernier, Minton, R. Loonsfoot, Mayo), 0 abstained, 0 absent, motion carried.
Council and participants were invited for a walk through tour of the new
Marquette Casino II. Opening of the new casino is slated for mid to lateDecember, 2019. Stan Karzmarak and Peter Dupis of Gundlach Champion, Inc., the projects General Contractor, conducted the tours
~ Submitted by Lauri Denomie, Newsletter Editor.
Continues (pictures) on page six.
President’s Quarterly Report for the Months of July, August, and September 2019
The following is a summary of activities that occurred in the Office of the
President for the months of July, August, and September 2019.
The Community participated in the GLIFWC’s Healing Circle Run. The
purpose of the run was an opportunity for people to come together to
pray for healing for themselves, their families, their communities, their
nation, Mother Earth, and all their relatives. The event began at the
lighthouse in Baraga, Michigan, and our segment ended at the Northern Waters Casino in Watersmeet, Michigan. The event was a huge
success, but we did have discussions on how we could improve it.
We suggested having the Healing Circle Run start at Baraga next
year, and perhaps we will have a discussion with Lac Vieux Desert to
follow the old Lac Vieux Desert Trail from Keweenaw Bay to LVD. I
met with THPO Officers to see if this is something we could do next
year. There have been issues with running along the major highways,
and we want to make sure the runner’s safety is of the upmost importance. There may be concern about artifacts located near that trail
though.
I approved the slot documents related to the Casino Renovation. By
waiting a few months, we were able to save a few percentage points
on the loan. We saved about 18 points and were able to lock it in at
4.83 percent.
NRD (Natural Resource Department) staff and I participated in the
Michigan Statewide Public Advisory Council (SPAC) meeting at the
Great Lakes Research Center in Houghton, Michigan. Reasons for
attending the SPAC meeting was to state our positions on Torch Lake
and discuss how we were going to factor Treaty Rights in this collaborate effort to save Treaty Protected Resources. The meeting agenda
included a number of updates from OGL (Office of Great Lakes) regarding funding, grants, and collaborative efforts with the University of
Michigan. NRD staff toured the area of concern known as Torch Lake
and returned to the center for dinner.
I met with Baraga County Democrats to educate them on our treatment as a state applicant for water and air quality standards. We
should work with any group to educate the public about why we want
to set our own water quality standards. It was a great opportunity for
us to meet with the Baraga County Democrats and discuss these issues.
I attended funerals of a number of Tribal Members. These celebrations of their lives were mostly held at the Zeba Community Hall.
I participated in the monthly conference call with the Governor’s office.
The Tribal Liaison informed us of an upcoming meeting to discuss environmental issues with them and the Bay Mills Indian Community.
The meeting will be held in late October. Some of the issues we would
like to discuss are our water quality standards, our treatment as a
state, our concerns regarding that issue, and opportunities to collaborate with other tribes to create these concentric circles of environmental protection. We will continue to participate in these educational
sessions.
I talked with Desmond Berry, the new Director of 7th Legacy. He sent
out a letter to all 12 tribes requesting consultation on behalf of Enbridge. I told him we stand in support of those tribes who call for decommissioning Enbridge’s Line 5 under the straits of Mackinaw. I requested the same information that is being shared with the State of
Michigan in regards to the condition of Line 5 throughout Michigan’s
Upper Peninsula. Desmond Berry is a Native American who was very
active in the Line 5 meetings and camp meetings which were held
close to the bridge. He was trying to raise awareness about the negative environmental consequences Line 5 would have. Enbridge finally
got to him and asked him to create this new environmental program
where he would be the conduit for tribes; however, a number of the
tribes did not take that too well as he jumped to the other side. He
called us. I told him we still stand in support of those 12 tribes, and we
are still opposed to Line 5, and we are looking for the decommission of
Line 5.
We supported United Tribe’s Resolution 065-2028, United Tribe’s of
Michigan Support for American Indian Exemption for Workforce Engagement Requirements. We are concerned that: 1) Mandatory workforce engagement requirements will create a barrier to access Medicaid that is unique to Indian Health Service’s (IHS) beneficiaries who
reside in areas of Michigan where employment opportunities are limited or seasonal at best. 2) Imposition of additional qualifying requirements for American Indians will preclude much needed Medicaid reimbursement use for operation and administration of our readily grossly
underfunded tribal health facilities. Michigan Senate Bill 363 amending Public Act 208, introduced by Mike Shirkey, and passed by Senate
to force Federal Recognized Tribes an opportunity to continue their
advocacy and for United Tribes to add a collective voice in support of
an exemption for American Indians from the workforce engagement
requirements.
I also participated in monthly Governor’s Telephone Conferences. I
asked the Governor’s office to consider granting a waiver to Tribal
Members to State Parks where we are required to have a recreational
passport sticker affixed to our vehicles. I asked if we were engaged in
a Treaty Protected activity or entering for prayer, if they would consider
a waiver. Winona LaDuke, Tribal Liaison for the Governor’s office,
said they would look at it and refer the matter to Trevor VanDyke. I
haven’t heard back from Mr. VanDyke on this request.
I attended the Senior Banquet.
I attended the GLIFWC Board of Commissioner’s meeting.
I attended VOIGHT meetings.
I attended the Line 5 Summit.
I signed a sub-contractual agreement with an Indian Tribal Council for
the Workforce Adult Program with (WIO), Workforce Initiative Opportunity.
NRD staff and I participated in an event regarding Buffalo Reef near
Gay, Michigan. We took the opportunity to discuss and inform those
present about the importance of fish, commercial and sport fishery,
genetic diversity in Lake Superior, and its associated habitat. We discussed goals for funding, alternative analysis status, and heard about
big decisions going forward. Some decisions need to be considered
including which alternative to use. How much Stamp Sand to get and
over what timeframe and funding of the cleanup. We visited the site
near Gay, Michigan, and looked at the dewatering area, discussed the
approximate extent of the revetment, and drove to what was left of the
original pile. It was quite the sight to see. I could only imagine the
original size of the pile of Stamp Sand which we were told was already
over 95% gone. Our big concern, as always, has been its impact on
Treaty Protected Resources. Some key messages are that Buffalo
Reef is a crucial part of Lake Superior’s habitat, Buffalo Reef is an
area of high consequence, an important Tribal fishing area, and a
spawning area for White Fish and Lake Trout. Buffalo Reef needs to
be protected from Stamp Sands. Stamp Sands fill spaces between
Reef Rocks where fish lay eggs.
I had the opportunity to recognize our employees at both of our casinos. We handed out certificates of appreciation and enjoyed cake and
ice cream with the employees. It was an honor to be present at the
recognitions of both casinos’ employees.
Recently, I was appointed by Governor Whitmer to the U.P. Energy
Taskforce. The taskforce was not formed to decide the fate of Line 5
or the potential tunnel in the Straits of Mackinaw. The taskforce is to
look at potential policy proposals and the overall energy picture of the
Upper Peninsula. Could the U.P. be used as a place to test some of
the alternative energy possibilities? Folks clearly want alternatives.
How can we help support that? To a certain extent, hopefully to a larger extent, public comments are informing what the work taskforce is
doing: concerns about energy services, costs of heating, intergenerational justice, other resources that are being distributed, and resilience.
For a future session, having a primer on Treaty Rights which might
help was suggested by multiple taskforce members. There are a number of tribes in Michigan and Wisconsin who have an opinion on alternative energy sources. It would be a value to the taskforce to hear
those opinions. It was suggested that Tribal Attorneys be invited to
present Treaty Rights. We also discussed the economics of using
Propane versus other options as a heat source with a focus on residential to gain an understanding of the comparable BTU’s and efficiency of use for wood, electricity, natural gas, and what the costs are
for those fuels as a comparable heating supply. Energy waste reduction and energy efficiency needs would be helpful to form a summary
in Upper Peninsula Energy efficiency opportunity to reduce Propane
usage. What I did find out, and the more research I do on the energy
needs of Western U.P., is that the Western U.P. and the Baraga area
are not dependent on Line 5. In fact, they get all of their Propane
trucked from Wisconsin. The nearest area to obtain Propane is in the
Rapid River area. I haven’t had the time to reach out to the local Propane dealers in Marquette, Michigan, but I assume they obtain it the
same way that most of the people in the Western U.P. obtain Propane
by going to Wisconsin because it is cheaper. I asked a local area Propane businessman why he does that and he said, “Number one, it is
not very reliable, and it costs more because to get the Propane out of
Line 5, they have to use the railroad from Rapid River, and Rapid
River is the last stop throughout the U.P.” So it is neither efficient, nor
is it reliable. I told other tribes at the United Tribe’s meeting a couple
of weeks ago that it is one thing to say we are opposed to Line 5, but
it’s another thing to say here are some solutions; here are some alternatives to Line 5. I think these is what the Governor is looking for...
some alternatives to Line 5. The more I find out, the more I know the
energy companies are tied together from UPPCO to big Oil. Enbridge
is the largest consumer of UPPCO’s electricity, and if they decided to
pull out, UPPCO said it may not be feasible to provide electricity in the
U.P. If they did pull out, they would have to double the price of electricity. So it is a double edged sword, and I just want to reach out to the
Governor and say these are the alternatives to Propane. In addition,
the largest consumers of Propane are in the Eastern Upper Peninsula,
and they are Tribal Members from the Sault Ste. Marie Tribe. We will
continue to watch this and give the Governor, hopefully, some alternatives to Line 5.
I was invited to a meeting to look at opportunity zones in Indian Country. An Opportunity Zone is an economically distressed community
where new investments may be eligible for certain tax benefits. Opportunity Zones were created under the Tax Cut and Jobs Act of 2017
as a tool to spur economic development and job creation in eligible low
-income areas which have difficulty attracting new businesses and
jobs. There are 362 Opportunity Zones spread throughout Indian
Country. I am planning to attend a November 8, 2019, meeting at a
place to be determined in Baraga County. One of the Baraga County
Commissioners reached out to me as there are Opportunity Zones
right here in Baraga County and suggested we meet and discuss an
opportunity to take an advantage of some of the tax advantages that
are available and partner up with another Capital Project that is looking
to invest its capital. If they invest their capital for up to ten years, there
are tax incentives available for them. I just started researching these
possibilities last week.
Recently in Michigan, there was news out of Lansing that the Tuition
Waiver increased from 3-million to 12-million dollars. With this news, I
asked at the United Tribes meeting last week if they would make it a
priority to help meet the education needs of the Keweenaw Bay Ojibwa
Community College. I would like them to work on a pass through for
the KBOCC to be eligible for the Tuition Waiver assistance monies. A
number of Indian Colleges are eligible for these funds now in Michigan
and KBOCC is not eligible for these Tuition Waivers. I did speak with
Continues on page eight.
(5) Naanan
Council Meeting/Walk Through Ojibwa Casino II continues:
Picture by Lauri Denomie.
Above—Gaming area. Below—Snack bar.
Picture by Lauri Denomie.
Picture by Lauri Denomie.
Above—Lounge bar. Below—Event Center
Picture by Lauri Denomie.
Fall Chainsaw Safety Class
A KBIC Chainsaw Safety Class was
held this October, free for Community
members who currently cut firewood and
timber stand improvement (TSI) projects,
and those who want to learn to use a
chainsaw. The class was given at the
KBOCC Wabunung Campus, and Reservation forestland, by a local chainsaw
safety trainer and expert from L’Anse,
Michigan. Nine students attended the
eight-hour training.
The class consisted of a half-day classroom portion, and an outdoor field exercise
in the afternoon practicing chainsaw skills.
If you are interested in future chainsaw
training opportunities, from beginner to advance skill levels, please contact the KBIC
Forester at rmcdonald@kbic-nsn.gov or
(906) 353-4591, and you will be contacted
as opportunities become available.
(6) Ningodwaaswi
Keweenaw Bay Indian Community
wishes our Ojibwa Seniors who are
80-years and older this month a very
Happy Birthday!
List includes October
Birthdays which may
have been missed last
issue.
Please let our
Enrollment
Office know if
someone was
missed or inLaurel M. Ballingall
formation is
Robert Funke
Colette M. Gemignani incorrect by
calling (906)
Rose Mary Haataja
Agnes J. Hueckstaedt 353-6623, ext.
4111.
Aurelia A. Hull
~ Miigwech
Gertrude A. Jones
Albert W. Matthews
“The more you
Eva G. Miller
and
Emily K. Rastello p r a i s e
celebrate
your
Richard J. Shalifoe
life,
the
more
Mervin F. Tody
Jeanette I. Waller there is in life to
celebrate!”
~ Oprah Winfrey
KEWEENAW BAY
INDIAN COMMUNITY
REGISTERED VOTERS
CULTURE
DRIVEN
The Primary Election will be held on Saturday, November 2, 2019.
Voters residing in the Baraga District will
vote at the Ojibwa Senior Citizens Building. Polls for those voters in the L’Anse
District will be at the Zeba Community
Hall. The Polls will be open from 10:00
a..m. until 6:00 p.m.
PLEASE VOTE
RODNEY
LOONSFOOT
BARAGA
ONLY REGISTERED VOTERS WILL BE
ELIGIBLE TO VOTE
(Per Election Ordinance)
Paid political ad
Tribal Council/Baraga District
Rodney Loonsfoot (Inc.)
Agatha M. Cardinal
Donald L. Chosa, Jr.
Larry Denomie III
Gerald H. Friisvall
Michael P. Lahti
Carole L LaPointe
Jerry Magnant “Mayo)
Don Messer, Jr.
Debra L. Picciano
Jacqueline Swartz
Dianne M. Waara
Tribal Council/L’Anse District
Gary Loonsfoot, Jr. (Inc.)
Joseph Dowd
Eddy Edwards
Lyndon Ekdahl
Dylan Friisvall
David Haataja
Jean Jokinen
Jennifer Misegan
Evelyn Ravindran
Paid political ad
Associate Judge
Violet M. Friisvall Ayres (Inc.)
Tyler Larson
Corey R. Pietila
(7) Niizhwaaswi
President’s Report continued:
Martin Reinhardt, who said he would work with me, and also Aaron
Payment, who was successful with getting the Bay Mills Indian Community College eligible to receive Tuition Waiver Funds. We will be
meeting with the President of Northern Michigan University and see if
they can offer some assistance to KBOCC as a pass through to receive these Tuition Assistance monies.
Recently racism has reared its ugly head at Marquette Senior High
School again. I called the President of the School Board, Rich Rossway, and asked if he would meet with me to discuss this issue again.
President Rossway agreed with me this time to change the mascot
and create an environment that will promote a quality education for
students at Marquette Senior High School. President Rossway contacted the school principal, and we will be meeting early next week on
how to fund the changing of their mascot. There are funds available
through the Native American Heritage Fund, and they have been very
successful in removing some mascots here in Michigan. I want to reintroduce President Rossway and the School Board to this Native
American Heritage Fund as there is money available to help change
their mascot. When President Rossway was first hired to the Marquette Senior High School Board, one of his campaign promises was
he would retain the mascot. Since then he has changed his mind, and
he is willing to work with the Community. I have always said, “Every
Indian child should have the ability to receive a quality education as
everyone else.” When there are these racism and mascot issues in
the schools, the people tend to crawl into a little shell; we have all
been through that. Enough is enough, and we are going to try to get
that mascot changed once and for all.
At the end of the month, I plan to participate in a State/Tribal Summit
which will take place at the Soaring Eagle Casino and Resort in Mount
Pleasant, Michigan. It is an opportunity for meaningful conversation
between Tribal Leaders, the Governor, and Representatives of Michigan to discuss the most important matters affecting our relations.
Respectfully submitted,
Warren C. Swartz
Tribal Council Secretary’s Quarterly Report for
the Months of July, August, and September 2019
Anin! We honor the greatness in you.
Remember: “Indian Country Counts”
“Our People, Our Nations, Our Future”
We continue to recognize the richness of Native American contributions, accomplishments, and sacrifices to the political, cultural, and economic life of Michigan and the United States.
We wish everyone a blessed fall season!
Mino-Bimaadizin “Live Well”
Respectfully, Susan J. LaFernier
Our Regular Saturday Council meetings are now held quarterly. The
Regular meeting was held on July 13. There were four Special Meetings
during July with a Work Session on July 30. There were five Special Meet(8) Ishwaaswi
ings during August with a Work Session on August 13. September was
very busy with five Special Meetings and seven FY 2020 Budget Meetings. The Council met with approximately 25 Department Heads who
administer Tribal Support Budgets.
We invite you to visit and take a stroll on our completed non-motorized
trail from Sand Point (Lighthouse) to the Baraga Marina. It is beautiful,
and we look forward to the continuance of the trail to Zeba. I enjoyed
walking in the “Healing Circle Run/Walk” held on July 15, 2019, with other
Tribes. We began at the Lighthouse, and KBIC’s portion of the walk was
82 miles.
Remember to vote in the Primary Election on November 2, 2019, and
the General Election on December 14, 2019. Voting is a crucial, meaningful way to express yourself and support the issues you are about. Voting is your choice. It is your opportunity to back the candidates you think
can effect the changes you desire. Whether or not you participate in the
elections, you can be sure that the political officials elected into office and
the policies they implement will impact your life in the future.
Our voter turnout at the General Elections since 2012 has ranged from
54% to 78%. Voting is the expression of our commitment to ourselves,
one another, our Community, and our World.
For your information: New pocket size Tribal Constitutions with the
Judicial Amendment are available at the Enrollment Office. The Constitution Committee is continuing to work on proposed amendments, and we
urge everyone to become more familiar and informed on our Constitution.
This report will be published in the KBIC “Wiikwedong Dazhi-Ojibwe”
newsletter, and the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community Website.
July 30, 2019 Tribal Council Work Session
Enterprise Employment Manual: Employees years of service adjustments were approved retro to the February 2019 payroll.
Reviewed the 2019 Enterprise Wage Compensation Study and Recommendations..
Reviewed the Enterprise Proposed Organizational Chart.
August 13, 2019 Tribal Council Work Session
Discussion/reviewed Enterprise Employment Manual proposed
amendments: Temporary Employee Definition, Job Descriptions, Job
Postings, and Promotions..
Discussion/reviewed Government Personnel Policy proposed amendments: 4.0 Personnel Selection and Probation—Reviewed Job Descriptions, Job Postings, Transfers, Promotions Sections, and Internal Job Postings/Promotions Policy for the Enterprises/Government.
VOTE
DONALD L. CHOSA, JR.
BARAGA DISTRICT
TRIBAL COUNCIL
Paid political ad
Kids learn healthy eating through gardening
Boys & Girls Club of Greater Green Bay teaches kids real-world skills beyond Club
GREEN BAY, Wis. (Date) – The Boys & Girls Club of Greater Green Bay’s Health &
Life Skills Program teaches kids how to grow their own fresh foods, while instilling the importance of gardening, how it affects the environment and real-world marketing skills.
Health & Life Skills Coordinator Shantell Ekdahl created the Enviro Team Project this
past summer for kids to gain hands-on experience on gardening, which includes proper
weeding, watering and harvesting, identifying which insects and animals both benefit and
detriment the growing process, and how to market and sell their own produce at a
Farmer’s Market.
Ekdahl says, “Often times, we would come across certain vegetables from the garden
that kids were unaccustomed to. We used that as a learning opportunity to teach about
new vegetables and how to incorporate them into snacks and delish dishes, so that they
would be more apt to eat that vegetable again.”
In addition to learning how to use gardening equipment safely, the project encouraged
kids to have fun by getting “down and dirty” in the garden, hunting for caterpillars, making
art from nature, designing their own marketing materials to attract customers, handling
money, and selling their vegetables outside the Clubhouse.
Youth who participated in the program knew how to identify different herbs and vegetables 47% more than before they participated in the program. There was a 34% increase
of youth who claimed they now know how to properly weed and take care of a garden after participating.
The Enviro Team Project won the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Green Bay 2019 Impact
Award, a local programming excellence competition, out of four other outstanding projects.
All nominated programs demonstrated impact on youth that also addressed local community needs. The winner receives funding to support future implementation of their program.
The guest judges who served on the panel were: Vice President of Administration and
Operations of Base Companies, Karen Klevesahl; Manager of Career Services at Northwestern Technical College, Jennifer Parks-Tigert; and Executive Director of Secondary
Teaching and Learning at the Green Bay Area Public School District, Mike Friis.
FOOD DISTRIBUTION PROGRAM ON
INDIAN RESERVATIONS (FDPIR)
FY 2018 NET MONTHLY INCOME STANDARDS*
(Effective Oct. 1, 2018 to Sept. 30, 2019)
*The net monthly income standard for each household size
is the sum of the applicable Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) net monthly income standard and
the applicable SNAP standard deduction.
48 Contiguous United
States:
Household
Size
Use this
amount
SNAP Net
Monthly
Income
Standard
SNAP
Standard Deduction
FDPIR Net
Monthly Income Standard
1
$1,005
+
$160
=
$1,165
2
$1,354
+
$160
=
$1,514
3
$1,702
+
$160
=
$1,862
4
$2,050
+
$170
=
$2,220
5
$2,399
+
$199
=
$2,598
6
$2,747
+
$228
=
$2,975
7
$3,095
+
$228
=
$3,323
8
$3,444
+
$228
=
$3,672
Each additional member
+ $349
Alaska:
Use this
amount
SNAP Net
Monthly
Income
Standard
SNAP
Standard Deduction
1
$1,255
+
$273
=
$1,528
2
$1,691
+
$273
=
$1,964
About Boys & Girls Club of Greater Green Bay
3
$2,127
+
$273
=
$2,400
The Boys & Girls Club of Greater Green Bay, 1400 Lombardi Ave. STE 60, believes every
child deserves to be in an environment that brings out the very best in them. For more
than 50 years, the Club has provided youth aged 7-18 with a safe place to learn and grow
during out-of-school hours, while also opening the door to positive relationships with caring adult professionals and life-changing opportunities through educational programs. The
Club has six locations throughout greater Green Bay where memberships are available for
only $10 per year. For more information, please visit www.bgcgb.org. You can also find us
on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter!
4
$2,563
+
$273
=
$2,836
5
$2,999
+
$273
=
$3,272
6
$3,435
+
$285
=
$3,720
7
$3,870
+
$285
=
$4,155
8
$4,306
+
$285
=
$4,591
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.
4.
5.
6.
Allyson Denomie, case #19-126, §3.206, Resisting arrest –1st offense
Sentencing on 09/23/2019, #19-126, §3.206:
1. Sixty hours of community service in lieu of a
fine.
2. Ninety days jail, credit for 8 days jail served,
52 days jail shall be served, 30 days jail
suspended pending success completion of
probation. Defendant shall be financially
responsible for the costs of lodging and any
expenses incurred while incarcerated.
3. Defendant shall obtain a new substance
abuse screening and follow the recommendations of the screening until successfully
discharged.
4. Defendant shall obtain a mental health assessment and follow the recommendations
of the assessment until successfully discharged.
5. Defendant shall sign a release of information for all service providers to allow the
Court to monitor compliance.
6. Six to twelve months standard alcohol and
drug restricted probation with a $10 monthly
probation fee. Defendant shall be financially responsible for the costs of drug and
PBT testing, if any.
Allyson Denomie, case #19-134, §8.901, Contempt of court –4th offense
Sentencing on 09/23/2019, #19-134, §8.901:
1. One-hundred hours of community service in
lieu of a fine.
2. One-hundred-eighty days jail, credit for five
days jail served, 145 days jail shall be
served, 30 days jail suspended pending
success completion of probation. Defendant shall be financially responsible for the
costs of lodging and any expenses incurred
while incarcerated.
3. Defendant shall obtain a new substance
7.
abuse screening and follow the recommendations of the screening until successfully
discharged.
Defendant shall obtain a mental health assessment and follow the recommendations
of the assessment until successfully discharged.
Defendant shall sign a release of information
for all service providers to allow the Court to
monitor compliance.
Six to twelve months standard alcohol and
drug restricted probation with a $10 monthly
probation fee. Defendant shall be financially
responsible for the costs of drug and PBT
testing, if any.
Defendant shall write a letter of apology to
Officer Chaudier and any other officer involved, Probation Officer Meghan Maki, and
Deputy Court Clerk Emily Evans.
Lizabeth Ekdahl, case #19-133, §8.901, Contempt of court – 2nd offense
Sentencing on 10/01/2019, #19-133, §8.901:
1. Fine $250.00, suspended in lieu of three to
five hours of community service.
2. Thirty days jail, 30 days jail suspended
pending successful completion of probation.
3. Probation will remain in effect until community service is completed with a $10 monthly
probation fee. Defendant shall be financially
responsible for the costs of drug and PBT
testing, if any.
Danika Strong, case #19-123, §3.412, Illegal
entry upon lands – 1st offense
Sentencing on 10/07/2019, #19-123, §3.412:
1. Fine $250.00, suspended in lieu of 20 hours
of community service.
2. Thirty days jail, credit for 20 days jail served,
10 days jail suspended pending successful
completion of probation.
Defendant shall
be responsible for the cost of lodging and
any expenses incurred while incarcerated.
3. Defendant shall obtain a new substance
abuse screening and follow the recommendations of the screening until successfully
discharged.
4. Defendant shall obtain a mental health assessment and follow the recommendations
of the assessment until successfully discharged.
5. Defendant shall sign a release of information
for all service providers to allow the Court to
Household
Size
FDPIR Net
Monthly Income Standard
Each additional member
+ $436
monitor compliance.
6. Three to six months of standard alcohol and
drug restricted probation with a $10.00
monthly probation fee. Defendant shall be
financially responsible for the costs of drug
and PBT testing, if any.
7. No contact with victim.
Danika Strong, case #19-130, §3.412, Illegal
entry upon lands – 2nd offense
Sentencing on 10/07/2019, #19-130, §3.412:
1. Fine $500.00, suspended in lieu of 40 hours
of community service.
2. Sixty days jail, credit for eight days jail
served, 52 days jail suspended pending successful completion of probation. Defendant
shall be responsible for the cost of lodging
and any expenses incurred while incarcerated.
3. Defendant shall obtain a new substance
abuse screening and follow the recommendations of the screening until successfully
discharged.
4. Defendant shall obtain a mental health assessment and follow the recommendations
of the assessment until successfully discharged.
5. Defendant shall sign a release of information
for all service providers to allow the Court to
monitor compliance.
6. Three to six months of standard alcohol and
drug restricted probation with a $10.00
monthly probation fee. Defendant shall be
financially responsible for the costs of drug
and PBT testing, if any.
7. No contact with victim unless waived by victim.
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.
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
CEO’s Quarterly Report for the Months of July,
August, and September 2019
1. MISSION STATEMENT: To provide exceptional services for our
membership; a safe, positive work environment for employees; and
sustained economic prosperity while protecting our sovereignty and
preserving our culture and natural resources for future generations.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
VISION STATEMENT: A Tribe that preserves the Anishinaabe culture, advances economic diversity, provides opportunities to enhance
independence, and promotes the health and well-being of our Community.
Updates: During the past quarter, I worked on obtaining training
through KBOCC for the department heads in order to provide education on Tribal Government, Language, and Business Communications. As you know, funding was not approved for this. Thus, I will
be pursuing a different source that may fund the option of training
being provided in a different manner other than as CEU’s. The travel
policy, youth activity fund, and selection and probation policies were
also worked on during this past quarter. Held an interview with Eagle
Radio and the L’Anse Sentinel and submitted an article to the Tribal
Newsletter article on the 1.7 mile non-motorized trail recently constructed in the Baraga Area. Also worked with the Tribal Attorney,
Housing Director, Realty Officer, NRD, CCISD, Village of Baraga,
and HUD on the construction of a new home project of students at
Baraga Schools at Lot 14 – 110 Noodinowmiikaahns (Windy Way
Road).
Meetings/Conferences: Held one Department Head meeting, one
strategic plan meeting, and two budget trainings. I attended the mandatory Reasonable Suspicion training required for supervisors. Had
weekly progress meetings with Housing Department, Natural Resource Department, and accounting department on the Mold Grant.
The Housing Department successfully completed all tasks related to
mold remediation in all identified homes. There remained extra funding after completion of required mold remediation and education
through the HUD Mold Remediation Grant to purchase new windows,
insulation, fans, and doors for all the low income housing homes that
were not originally part of the remediation. There remains some work
to be completed by KCO Construction for the drain tile and swails.
Housing staff has worked diligently on this project, along with our accounting office and Natural Resource Department, to complete this
project and is to be thanked for all their hard work to successfully
complete this.
Employee Changes: During this past quarter, there was one change
that directly reports to the CEO’s office. Kathy Mayo was hired as
the Health Administrator after the policy changed for the selection
and probation policy, so the government could do an internal posting.
The internal versus external posting within the selection and probation policy has been challenging and may need to be revisited. In
addition, I participated in two on-call pharmacist interviews and in the
negotiation of three provider contracts. Also, I participated in one
appeal of dismissal hearing. The dismissal was upheld. The government currently has 303 employees, with 219 Native American, as
of September 29, 2019. The reports of changes is provided as requested.
Statistical Data/Case Load Information: Requests for quotes have
been sent to LaCourt and Ferrel Gas for the upcoming heating season for the Senior/Disabled heating program. I expect something by
next week. I reviewed nine revised position descriptions, approved
22 budget modifications, and signed 23 Tier I and Tier II agreements.
Financial Update: During this past quarter, our office organized the
governmental budgets to be presented for Council approval. The
government budgets submitted were comprised of funding from
grants, fees or other revenue, and Tribal Support or revenue from the
Enterprises. Each year the Tribal Council is challenged with the balancing of the budget. This has taken approximately 11 meetings. A
final summary is being presented today with a projected excess of
revenues over expenses in the amount of $493,087.00.
The Tribe has been notified of the following awards since my last report on September 5, 2019.
1. EPA CERCLA 128(a) Small Technical Assistance Grant Program for KBIC (GIS) — $20,000.
2. Support for Adam Walsh Act Implementation Grant Program in
the amount of $298,735.
3. DOJ OJP OVW Tribal Victim Services Set-Aside Program in the
amount of $720,000.
4. DHHS Indian Health Service Compact — $4,858,161.
5. BIA Fire Agreement Fuels Funding — $47,200 +$10,000 Preparedness +$5,000 Prevention.
6. ITC Healthy Start — $85,000.
7. DHHS ACF Title IV-D Advance Planning Document for the installation of the Model Tribal System — $85,500.
8. DHHS ACF Title IV-D Enforcement $489,725.
9. State of MI WIC — $68,297.
10. State of MI Tribal Victim Services — $129,431 + additional
$67,290 for Van, furnace, refrigerator, stove, carpeting, etc.
11. State of MI Public Health Emergency Preparedness — $17,698.
12. BIA Baseline Monitoring Project for waters of existing and potential Wild rice stands — $40,500.
13. USFWS White Nose Syndrome Grant — $15,000.
14. State of MI EGLE Rural Electronics Recycling Grant — $4,000.
15. State MI DNR Wild rice — $80,000.
16. DHHS Title IV-E $45,622 +$54,461 +$47,308 for Foster care
reimbursements.
17. BIA Forestry Contract Support Costs — $12,982.
Respectfully submitted, Sarah Smith, CEO
(10) Midaaswi
Vice President/KBIC Cannabis Developer’s 3rd
Quarterly Report for the Months of July, August,
and September 2019
Cannabis Adventure
We held a Community meeting outlining our new plans. Approximately 25
members attended. We recently met with contractors, engineers, and the
grower at the terminal building in Negaunee, Michigan. The engineers are
developing plans for the grow, both mechanical and electrical. We still
have some obstacles with our dispensary, but we are working on that as
well.
Cultural
Although I am no longer THPO Director, I still assist with cultural activities.
Alden Connor, Jr., John Hebert, and I drove to Clam Lake, Wisconsin, and
participated in the second annual Elk Harvest. We bagged an 800-pound
Elk. The following day we butchered it, and we got about 400 pounds of
meat stacked in the freezer down in the Cultural House. You will be able to
sample some of that today courtesy of Rodney Loonsfoot.
THPO was recently contacted by Earl Evans. Mr. Evans represents Gray
and Pave, whose client is Dayton Power and Electric. DP&E recently discovered ancestor remains in Southern Ohio. They are requesting our presence for re-interment of said ancestors back to the Earth. We are still negotiating the terms for travel and stay.
Debbie Picciano, TERO Director, located training for Cultural Resource
Monitoring. Three KBIC Tribal Members attended said training. This training has opened the doors to monitoring construction projects, one of which
we just finalized an agreement with, SEMCO for the Marquette Gas Line
Project. Two of the trainees are from Marquette Township and one trainee
is from Baraga.
Miigwech, Gary F. Loonsfoot, Jr.
HONORING FOSTER PARENTS
Picture by Lauri Denomie.
Colleen and Paul Holcraft, Olivia and Robert Rajacic, Debra Parrish, Laura
and Michael Lahti, Ann and Pat Degenaer, Hope and Dale Dakota, Debra
LaPointe, Beth and David Dix, Peggy Loonsfoot, Cindy Curtis, and Cindy
Theirry. There are many KBIC foster parents that were not present for the
picture.
The KBIC Tribal Social Services and ICWA Committee holds a Foster
Parent Recognition Dinner annually to show support and appreciation to
these families who open their doors for KBIC children in need of care. Today we have 40 kids in care and 21 homes. Those 21 homes include licensed, unlicensed relative, borrowed homes from other agencies, and
adoptive homes.
This year’s dinner was held on Tuesday, September 24, 2019, at the
Zeba Community Hall. Foster families received a gift card after the event.
Julia Van Alstine, Tribal Social Services Specialist, (below) was the
guest speaker. Mrs. Van Alstine said, “Good evening ladies and gentlemen. It is a privilege to honor you this evening and convey our profound
appreciation for everything you do. When I was younger, I was removed
due to my parents faults, went into foster care, and was placed in a few
placements until I was lucky enough to have found my forever home that
has impacted the person I am today, greatly. Being a former foster child
and growing up with parents who did foster care until recently, I am aware
of all your hard work, sacrifices, and dedication.
Today is all about you, and I want to thank you for making such positive
imprints on our foster children’s lives. You have turned your homes into
sanctuaries, safe havens, and classrooms for our children and youth in
care. Thank you for having the courage to welcome a child into your home
with little to no knowledge of who they are and what impact they will make,
for being driven by the hope and faith that you can make a difference in the
life of a foster child. It is individuals like yourself who take on the root of our
children’s trauma and make an effort to help them heal. So thank you!
Most importantly, thank you for putting your family stability, harmony,
and relationships at risk for the sake of a child not your own, for going to
battle with schools, doctors, social workers, and neighbors in order to advocate for your child. For nights of little to no sleep as you have served as a
comforter, consoler, or watchdog. Thank you for
altering your home in order to comply with licensing and safety regulations. For being the
first responders to the multiple crisis and emergencies for your child. Thank you for being a
counselor, tutor, coach, and role model. For
being the most significant lifelong influence that
our children in care might encounter. Thank you
for going the extra mile when you didn’t need
too, for helping our foster children live the life
they deserve. Most importantly, thank you for
putting yourself second, so that your foster child
Picture by Lauri Denomie.
could be put first.”
SENIORS: YOU MUST
FILL OUT THE FORM
YEARLY TO STAY ON
THE PLOWING LIST!
Theodore Reuben Holappa
(February 28, 1945—September 30, 2019)
Theodore Reuben Holappa "Jiinggogiizhik", age 74 of Kincheloe, MI,
passed away on Monday, Sept. 30, 2019, at Bayside Village in L'Anse, MI.
He was born February 28, 1945, in Zeba, MI, the son of Theodore and
Evelyn (Spruce) Holappa. Ted grew up in Zeba and graduated from
L'Anse High School in 1962. He received a Bachelor Degree from University of Wisconsin-Stout and also studied the Anishinaabemowin Language
at Bay Mills Community College. Ted worked as a teacher at UCLA and in
Boulder CO. He was KBIC's first elected judge, serving from 1974-85, in
the newly established Tribal Court System. Ted was also a Tribal Council
member and has helped establish many KBIC programs that are still being
used to this day, including the first tribal health system, the first Traditional
Medicine Program integrated into a tribal health delivery system in the
U.S., and the first Anishinaabemowin Immersion Institute in the U.S. He is
one of the founders of the annual powwow and helped write the first grant
to establish a Tribal drum at KBIC. Ted retired from Sault Ste. Marie Tribe
of Chippewa Indians as the Program Director of the Traditional Medicine
program.
Ted married his love of 27 years, Peggy Hemenway on September 11,
2010, in Lake Lena, MN. He was an avid Packer fan, and enjoyed golfing,
bowling, and running.
Surviving are his wife: Peggy of Kincheloe, MI; children: Cheyenne
Holappa of Sault Ste Marie, MI, Brenda (Wolf Pipestein) of Tulsa, OK,
Tashima Hemenway of Sault Ste. Marie, Eric Hemenway of Harbor
Springs, MI, and John Paul Montano of Sault Ste Marie; grandchildren:
Amber, Kyle, and Kyan; sisters: Peggy Dunn of Zeba, Beverly Lussier of
Baraga, Diane Charron of Baraga, and Gerry (John) Mantila of L'Anse;
and numerous nieces and nephews.
Preceding him in death are his parents; and two infant brothers:
Stephen and Kenneth.
Ted's wake began on Wednesday, October 2, 2019, at 6:30 p.m. at
the KBIC Zeba Hall and continued until Thursday, October 3, 2019, at
10:00 a.m. It was a Mide Funeral Ceremony with Skip Churchill officiating.
Burial followed in the Indian Pinery Cemetery. A feast/luncheon followed
the services. The Jacobson Funeral Home assisted the family.
Cathy L. Kelly
(January 9, 1964—September 30, 2019)
Cathy L. Kelly, age 55, of Gwinn, MI, passed away on Monday, September 30, 2019, at her home surrounded by her family and under the care
of Lake Superior Life Care & Hospice.
She was born January 9, 1964, in Laurium, MI, the daughter of Ronald
and Betty (Penrose) Gardner. She was raised in Negaunee, MI, graduated
from Negaunee High School in 1982, and earned a Bachelor’s degree
from NMU.
Cathy worked as an aide at Marquette County Medical Care Facility for
19 years. She then was employed at KBIC Public Health in Baraga, and
finally as a secretary at Gwinn United Methodist Church.
She volunteered her time as a grant writer for the KBIC and gave of
herself in other philanthropic ways to many including Helping Hands and
Habitat for Humanity. She was a member of the Keweenaw Bay Indian
Community and the AICC (American Indian Coordinating Council).
Cathy enjoyed gardening, organic farming, stamp collecting, beading,
and leather work.
She is survived by her husband, Kevin Kelly, whom she married in Marquette, MI, on October 10, 2006; children: Jordan (Meaghan) Bugge of
Gwinn, MI, Daniel Bugge of Kalamazoo, MI, and Brandy (Matt) McNally of
Munising, MI; 10 grandchildren; siblings: Charlene (Guillermo) Gonzalez of
Ishpeming, MI, Ron Gardner of Cadillac, MI, and Paul Gardner of Luther,
MI; and nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents;
sister: Christine; and infant daughter: Crystal.
A memorial service was held on Friday, October 4, 2019, at the Gwinn
United Methodist Church. The Canale-Gwinn Funeral Home assisted the
family.
ANNOUNCEMENT
HACCP Certification Course
(Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point)
Sponsored by GLIFWC, in partnership with MSU Sea Grant
This training is for fishermen, processors, regulatory personnel, and
others to identify and evaluate food safety risks, learn seafood rules and
regulations, and how to develop a HACCP plan for the safe handling and
processing, including smoking and freezing of seafood and seafood products, including treaty harvested fish, that will be sold commercially. After
completing the three-day course, participants will receive a HACCP Certification from the Association of Food and Drug Officials (AFDO).
Where:
Keweenaw Bay Ojibwa Casino and Resort,
16449 Michigan Ave. (M-38), Baraga, MI
When:
December 10th, 11th, and 12th, 2019
Registration:
Contact Owen Schwartz, (715) 685-2147 or
ohschwartz@glifwc.org by November 19th.
Hotel:
Contact Zoongee Leith-Mayotte, (715) 6852138 or zleith@glifwc.org by November 19th.
GLIFWC will pay the $135 HACCP Registration fee (which includes the
course book), provide hotel rooms, and food and mileage reimbursements*
for the following qualified participants:
Any Lake Superior commercial fisherman licensed by Red Cliff, Bad
River, Keweenaw Bay, or Bay Mills.
Adult family members of any Red Cliff, Bad River, Keweenaw Bay or
Bay Mills licensed fisherman currently working at a family’s fish shop.
Any enrolled member from any GLIFWC member tribe (i.e. enrolled
members of Fond du Lac, Mille Lacs, Red Cliff, Bad River, St. Croix,
Lac Courte Oreilles, Lac du Flambeau, Sokaogon, Lac Vieux Desert,
Keweenaw Bay, and Bay Mills). This includes subsistence fishermen
and those active in harvesting and processing fish.
If monies are available after the reimbursement of tribal fishermen and
members, the costs for Tribal fisheries and conservation staff of
GLIFWC member tribes may also be covered.
Participants must attend all three days to obtain the HACCP certificate and have their travel costs reimbursed by GLIFWC. *After participants complete the three-day class, they will sign a GLIFWC travel form
for mileage and per diem (meals) reimbursement based on Federal GSA
rates. Reimbursements will be mailed to participants after being
processed by GLIFWC’s accounting office.
(11) Ashi bezhig
2019 KBIC Seasonal Flu
Vaccine Clinics in November
KBIC Health Dept. 2nd Floor
8:30 AM – 4:00 PM, Tuesdays
November 5
November 12
November 19
Walk-in Basis ~ While Supplies Last
Keweenaw Bay Indian Community
Office of Child Support Services
P.O. Box 490, Baraga, MI 49908
Phone: 906-353-4566
Fax: 906-353-8132
“YOUR Children … OUR Priority”
We provide the following services:
• Paternity Establishment
• Establishment of Child Support
• Outreach Services
• Mediation
Bring your insurance card
if you have one.
Sponsored by KBIC Department of Health
and Human Service
Take control of the devices you use every day and save.
AFRAID YOU’RE USING TOO
MUCH ENERGY? WE CAN HELP.
Keweenaw Bay Indian Community
16429 Bear Town Rd-Baraga, MI 49908-9210
Youth 18 and under should contact (906)
353-8700 and schedule a nurse visit to obtain
the influenza vaccine.
For more information contact Dawn
at (906) 353-4521.
Permit No. 62
U.S Postage PAID
Big Rapids, MI 49307
PRE-SORT STANDARD
(12) Ashi Niizh
Vaccine is available for Tribal
Members, descendants, non-native
household contacts and employees.
Phantom load — the electricity consumed while appliances or electronics are turned
off but still plugged into an outlet—can result in significant energy loss. To avoid it,
plug these energy sucking “vampires” into smart power strips rather than wall outlets,
and then hit the off switch on the strip when not in use.
This is a copy of a public record, reproduced as it was published. It is not legal advice, and it may not be the version a court would rely on. Check the official source before you cite it.