# All You Need To Know About The Keweenaw Bay Indian Community (2010) > Briefs, arguments, decisions, and more. URL: https://www.frixlaw.com/law-library/documents/tribal%3Akeweenaw_bay%3Ae450c430379f8519 ## Record - **Collection:** Tribal code - **Document type:** Tribal code ## Text GIIKENDAAM CHIWIIKWEGAMAG All You Need To Know About The Keweenaw Bay Indian Community Gichi Manidoo Giizis - Great Spirit Moon - January 2010 Issue 67 Tribal Council Members: KBIC ELECTIONS HELD DECEMBER 12TH Warren C. Swartz, Jr., President KBIC held their annual General Election on Saturday, December 12, 2009. KBIC registered voters residing in Baraga cast their ballots at the Ojibwa Senior Citizens building in Baraga, while those residing in the L’Anse district cast their ballots at the Zeba Methodist Church. The Primary Elections held October 31, 2009, put the top four candidates from each district on the General Election ballot. Baraga District candidates were Jerry Lee Curtis (incumbent), Warren “Chris” Swartz, Jr. (incumbent), Debbie Parrish, and Donny Shalifoe, Sr. L’Anse District candidates were Susan J. LaFernier (incumbent), Jennifer Misegan Newsletter photo (incumbent), Eddy Michael Edwards, and JoAnne Racette. Chief Judge position candidates on the ballot were: Bradley T. Dakota (incumbent) and Paul Smith. Preliminary counts were announced by the election workers, immediately following closing of the polls on Saturday, December 12, 2009. In the Baraga District, Jerry Lee Curtis received 229 votes, Warren “Chris” Swartz, Jr. received 273 votes, Debbie Parrish received 205 votes, and Donny Shalifoe, Sr. received 190 votes. Jerry Lee Curtis and Warren “Chris” Swartz, Jr. have secured a three year term in the Baraga District. In the L’Anse District, Susan J. LaFernier received 271 votes, Jennifer Misegan received 159 votes, Eddy Michael Edwards received 294 votes, and JoAnne Racette received 177 votes. Susan J. LaFernier and Eddy Michael Edwards have secured a three year seat in the L’Anse District. For the Chief Judge position, Bradley T. Dakota received 336 votes and Paul Smith received 135 votes. Bradley T. Dakota secured the three year term of Chief Judge for the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community for his eighth consecutive term. Election results are on the agenda to be considered for certification by Tribal Council at the meeting scheduled for January 9, 2010. Following certification, the twelve seat council will make nominations and vote on their executive ~ submitted by newsletter council. KBIC Holds Christmas Parties The Keweenaw Bay Indian Community held a number of Christmas Parties this year. The Baraga little kids’ party was held on December 12, at the Niiwin Akeea Center. Santa and Mrs. Claus attended along with over 150 Tribal families. Pizza, Taco dip, veggie and fruit trays were served to all. The older children’s party was held later that same day where the teens enjoyed bingo and many won nice prizes. There was a good turnout for the Community Teen Dance held after their party. The KBIC Youth Programs would like to thank everyone who helped out or brought goodies to the party. We couldn't have made this year’s party a success without you! The Ojibwa Senior Citizens held their Christmas Dinner on Friday, December 18. The seniors enjoyed a meal of Prime Rib, baked potato, veggies, salad, rolls and desserts. The seniors listened to carols by Kristy Clish. A group of musically inclined seniors also provided festive Christmas music. All seniors received gift cards. 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: • • • • • • • • • • December 5, 2009, Tribal Council meeting KBIC General Election Results DHHS Superior Spirit Award Winner for December Even Start begins new program KBIC Christmas Parties Lanczy wins snowshoes KBTNRD—January is Radon Action Month New Employees Aabinoojiyens Deepest Sympathy Picture by Shellie Denomie ~ submitted by newsletter editor Photo by Lisa Denomie Youth club photo Youth club photo Parties continue on page six. (1) Bezhig December 5, 2009 — Tribal Council Meeting The Tribal Council held their regularly scheduled Saturday Tribal Council meeting on December 5, 2009, at the Ojibwa Casino Resort Conference Room. Warren (Chris) Swartz, Jr., presided over the meeting with Susan LaFernier, Toni Minton, William E. Emery, Jennifer Misegan, Jerry Lee Curtis, Fred Dakota, 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. Reports were given for November 2009, by President Swartz (see page two), Vice President Susan LaFernier (see page three), Secretary Toni Minton (see page five), Treasurer Jennifer Misegan (see page four), and CEO Larry Denomie (see page eleven). Council passed Department Head Reports for October 2009. Jennifer Misegan addressed Council under old business regarding the quote and the stamp design for the Tribe’s tobacco stamp. Motion by Toni Minton to approve the quote of $12,175 from Meyer Corp. Revenue for the Tobacco Stamp, supported by William E. Emery, ten supported, one opposed (M. LaFernier), 0 abstained, motion carried. President Swartz stated, “This is an exercise of sovereignty, and we are going to regulate that trade.” Councilman Dakota further explained, “It is the Tribe’s stamp that will go on the bottom of the cigarette packs sold on this reservation.” Frederick Dakota requested an additional $1,280 on behalf of the KBIC Ojibwa Senior Citizens. They were approved at an earlier date for $5,000 for their Christmas party, (dinner, gifts for those in attendance and home bound). They need a total of $6,280. Motion by Jerry Lee Curtis to approve the donation of $1,280 for the Ojibwa Senior Citizens Christmas Party, supported by Jennifer Misegan, eleven supported, 0 opposed, 0 abstained, motion carried. Debbie Parrish addressed Council under new business regarding Ojibwa Community College grant assistance. An MOA addendum was presented for grant assistance to relieve the need of coming back to Council every time the grant assistance was needed. Motion by Gary Loonsfoot, Sr., to approve the MOA addendum between the Community and the College, supported by Jerry Lee Curtis, eleven supported, 0 opposed, 0 abstained, motion carried. Mrs. Parrish gave updates of happenings at OCC. A survey was conducted resulting with computer training being requested. OCC will begin this month with basic keyboarding and follow that up with word processing. In January, they will begin with basic Excel, and then advanced Excel. The college plans on offering Access Database, Publisher, and PowerPoint throughout the year. Research and Report Writing, Writing in the Work Place, and Public Speaking were also requested. These courses will be offered as CEU’s (shorter workshop training rather than a 15 -week course). Anyone who wants a 15week course can enroll in one of the semester classes beginning in January. They are inviting the high school art students to bring their art work to display at the College in the spring. We have a lot of talented high school artists who had their work on display at the Galley 325 art show. Susan LaFernier. on behalf of Lauri Denomie, requested funeral expenses for a family member, William R. LaFernier, who recently passed on. Mr. LaFernier had been away from this Community for many years, but his roots are from the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community. The funeral bill includes returning his remains to the Community. Motion by Isabelle Welsh to approve the amount of $1,520 to assist the family for the funeral expenses of William R. LaFernier to be paid out of the funeral expense fund, supported by Frederick Dakota, eleven supported, 0 opposed, 0 abstained, motion carried. Jennifer Misegan on behalf of Lisa Denomie, Pre-primary Director, requested a donation for $25 per child for 22 children for Christmas gifts for the children enrolled with Pre-primary, for a total $550. Motion by Jennifer Misegan to donate $550 for Christmas gifts for the children at the Preprimary Program, supported by Susan LaFernier, eleven supported, 0 opposed, 0 abstained, motion carried. ~ submitted by newsletter editor PRESIDENT’S REPORT FOR THE MONTH OF NOVEMBER 2009. Activities Reported by the President, Warren (Chris) Swartz, Jr., for the month of November. On Thursday, November 5, 2009, President Obama hosted the White House Tribal Nations Conference. As part of President Obama’s sustained outreach to the American people, this conference provided leaders from the 564 federally recognized tribes the opportunity to interact directly with the President and representatives from the highest levels of his Administration. Each federally recognized tribe has been invited to send one representative to the conference. The President delivered opening and closing remarks and participated in an interactive discussion with tribal leaders. Other interactive discussions in the areas of economic development and natural resources; public safety and housing; and education, health and labor, were led by representatives from the highest levels of the Administration. On behalf of the Community, I congratulated Chairman Skibine for assuming the important position of acting chairman for the National Indian Gaming Commission. I informed him of a number of issues that should be brought to his attention. We believe that NIGC, as a commission within the Department of Interior, should follow the administrative rules and executive orders that are followed by federal agencies including the Department of Interior. Secondly, because NIGC has refused to comply with the normal rules for federal (2) Niizh agencies, some of its regulatory rulemaking processes have been defective. For example, the facility licensing rules were promulgated with only a 45 day comment period and should be withdrawn, revised to be consistent with the IGRA, and re-issued for consultation with Indian Tribes. Thirdly, the NIGC should use Indian preference in hiring in accordance with the Indian Reorganization Act. The NIGC is a federal agency serving Indian country and intended to promote Tribal selfgovernment and strong Tribal governments. Two of its three commissioners must be Indian, so NIGC should use Indian preference in hiring and employment consistent with the IGRA and the IRA. Finally, given the fact that Congress amended the IGRA in 2006, to increase NIGC fees and provide for training and technical assistance, it is appropriate to review NIGC’s mission. The NIGC should consult with Indian tribes concerning its mission of promoting Tribal economic development, economic self-sufficiency, strong Tribal governments, and safeguarding Indian gaming as a means of generating essential Tribal government revenue. I participated in a celebration at the Niiwin Akeaa Center to celebrate the recent achievement of candidacy status for initial accreditation. The event was well attended, and everyone at the College pitched in to make this celebration a success. I attended a feast hosted by the LVD THPO in Watersmeet. We discussed preservation and protection of the cultural and natural resources around the proposed mine by Orvana Minerals. Charles Brumleve discussed the mechanics of the proposed mine and its potential effects on the environment. Cynthia Stiles presented information on historic preservation responsibilities and identifying important resources in the mine area. Orvana Minerals is a low-cost gold producer. Orvana owns and operates the Don Mario Mine in Bolivia. Additional information is available at their website. The United Tribes of Michigan met on November 12, in Manistee, MI. Prior to the meeting, the Executive Officers met and reorganized. Larry Romanelli was elected to serve as President of the organization for the next year. He will be taking the position over from Chief Fred Cantu of the Saginaw Chippewa Indians. Also elected at the annual meeting were: Chairperson Laura Spurr of the Nottawaseppi Huron Band of Potawatomi Indians as Vice Chair; Chair Chris Swartz, Keweenaw Bay Indian Community is Secretary, and Chairman D.K. Sprague of the Match-E-Be-Nash-She-Wish Band of Pottawatomi Indians is Treasurer. We responded to a questionnaire given to us by the CITGO heating oil program and hopefully we will be funded again this year. Last year we received a good amount of money from CITGO, and we used the donation to help low income people pay their heating bills during the winter months. Respectfully submitted, Warren (Chris) Swartz, Jr., President VICE-PRESIDENT’S REPORT FOR THE MONTH OF NOVEMBER 2009. Activities Reported by the Vice President, Susan LaFernier, for the month of November 2009. We all need to commit to do our part to make a difference to protect our environment and change the world. I hope that you have been learning how to save and conserve energy to protect our Earth if you are able. I have emphasized all year that every month is “Energy Awareness Month,” and our theme for the year was “Commit to Conserve.” There are simple, everyday conservation measures we can all easily commit to. There are also everyday measures we can do to reduce air pollution, conserve water, reduce/reuse/recycle/rebuy materials, and prevent pollution in general. Once again, October was Energy Awareness Month! This year’s theme, “A Sustainable Energy Future— Putting All the Pieces Together” encourages you to see yourself as a piece of a large puzzle of shaping our energy future and moving our nation toward energy independence. All of this information is available on the EPA.gov and energy.gov websites. There was a nice celebration/presentation on November 13, given by the KBOCC Board of Regents, Faculty, and staff for their recent accomplishment of candidacy status for initial accreditation. We congratulate all of you and thank you for honoring past and present Council members and others on that day. Thank you to Ojibwa Housing Authority and KBIC for the two day presentation on permanent supportive housing on November 23 and 24. Two representatives from the Corporation for Supportive Housing (CSH/Michigan and Minnesota) presented various topics regarding homeless services and that technical assistance, training, and advocacy is available to develop permanent supportive housing (housing that is affordable and includes services) for homeless individuals and families. Also thank you to everyone in our community who filled out the Confidential Supportive Housing survey on Christmas gift check day. We received 472 surveys that will help immensely with determining your current housing needs. The Supportive Housing Development Team also met on November 30, after the two day meeting to discuss future developments and possible sites for a center. We are still asking if anyone has information regarding forgotten graves and information on graves that do not have any identification at the Pinery Cemetery to please call me or Summer Cohen if you can help. The map will be completed shortly, and we will then meet to discuss the information that is still needed or missing. We continue to have monthly meetings with our employee wellness group and our Blue Cross representative. Thank you to this new group; they have been enthusiastic and have many great ideas that employees will be seeing in the near future such as healthy cooking recipes, weight management and stress reduction programs, fitness memberships/ discounts and healthy options in our vending machines. We held the wellness program naming contest as was announced last month and we thank Lauri Denomie for finishing the wording into the medicine wheel logo. Our official name is W.H.I.P.P. (Wellness, Health, Intervention, Prevention Program) Task Force. The members of the task force developed a mission statement that reads: “The Keweenaw Bay Indian Community Wellness, Health, Intervention, Prevention Program (W.H.I.P.P.) is dedicated to improving and maintaining the general health and well being of our employees, dependents, and community members. Our goal is to provide information, activities, motivation, services, and recognition to enhance the ability of people to better manage their own health, improve their quality of life and reduce their risk of disease and in- jury. Positive lifestyle choices develop a culture that is focused on celebrating and improving the quality of life for all.” It is never too late to encourage positive lifestyles changes that will help us live longer, healthier, happier lives. As we know, on August 18, 2009, the administrative law Judge Patterson issued a proposed decision in our contested case hearing regarding the Kennecott’s mining permit and groundwater permit for the Yellow Dog Plains. He held that “the excavation and drilling in the immediate area of Eagle Rock and fencing it off will materially affect its use as a place of worship. This should in some manner be accommodated and would best be done so by relocating the access to the mine to a location that will not interfere with that function.” This decision was sent to Steven Chester, and our written exceptions/comments regarding this decision were also sent on October 2, directly to Mr. Chester, who considered the comments and has now made a request for more information regarding Eagle Rock and the legality of the judge’s decision. This information will need to be filed by December 7, when he will make a final determination and order on the permits. Chuck Brumleve, our Mining Specialist gave comments on December 1, in Ishpeming at the public hearing for the four permits on the reuse and opening of the Humboldt Mill site for an ore processing facility. Please continue to call/write your elected officials and tell them that the short term benefits are not worth the harmful long term effects on our health, rivers, Great Lakes, woods, and wild places because of the great potential for acid mine drainage. Please call me or write if you would like to review the National Wildlife Federation’s DVD “Mining Madness, Water Wars: The Great Lakes In The Balance.” I have also been attending the Employee Christmas Party Task Force meetings, and the wonderful party will be held tonight. A big thank you to the task force; so much work goes into the planning and preparation of these parties, and we all appreciate the work that they do! Thank you also to our Eagle Radio employees and communities for donating to the annual TV6 can-a-thon this past week. All proceeds go the local food pantries. Remember to continue to pray for and honor all of our veterans, service men and women, and their families. Welcome home to the 1431st! Also remember those who are ill, have lost loved ones, (there have been many in the last year) and for our economic struggles. Tell someone you know three good things that you like about them during the holiday season. Let us be thankful for our beautiful area, and we pray that you have a wonderful Christmas, (remember the reasons for the season) and a blessed New Year. We also 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. Remember the Drug Tip Line number is 353-DRUG or 353-3784. You will be seeing yellow banners around the reservation with this drug tip line number displayed. Miigwetch, Susan LaFernier, Vice President MIIGWETCH! Thank you to all who voted in the December Tribal Council Election. I appreciate your continued support. Greatness can be achieved when we work together for the good of our Tribe. Peace and good health to you and your family in this New year! ~ Susan J. LaFernier The DHHS Superior Spirit Award Winner for December Brenda Brunk is the DHHS Superior Spirit Award winner for December. Brenda was nominated by two pat ients who stated: "Brenda is always pleasant and a team DHHS photo player. She will help you any way that she can, even if she is filling in for someone. She will go out of her way to help you. Brenda has worked for the Tribe for many years, and she has earned this recognition.“ “Brenda is very efficient in her job when you are requesting medical records or copies. She will make sure you get what you need with fast, prompt, efficient service! She always makes me feel welcome at the Heath Center. ‘Hi, how you doing?’ This is an important thing when you are sick.” Brenda received a beaded lanyard for her name badge and is able to park in the spot specifically designed for the DHHS Superior Spirit Award winner. Congratulations, Brenda! WINNER! NOVEMBER’S SNOWSHOE GIVEAWAY Congratulations to Kathy Lanczy! She was the November winner of the snowshoe giveaway. Michelle and I hope you have a wonLibrary photo derful holiday with your family and friends. Reminder: Every time you use the library, you may put your Name in for the drawing to win snowshoes. If you've never been to the library, now is your chance to get a library card which entitles you to two chances immediately for the snowshoes. Good Luck! ~ Mary Bergerson, Library Director W.H.I.P.P. (Wellness, Health, Intervention, Prevention, Program) Task Force Mission Statement: “The Keweenaw Bay Indian Community Wellness, Health, Intervention, Prevention Program is dedicated to improving and maintaining the general health and well being of our employees, dependents, and community members. Our goal is to provide information, activities, motivation, services, and recognition to enhance the ability of people to better manage their own health, improve their quality of life and reduce their risk of disease and injury. Positive lifestyle choices develop a culture that is focused on celebrating and improving the quality of life for all.” There are 12 employees on the Task Force (nine government and three enterprise). We also have 58 employee volunteers. On January 19, 20, 21, 2009, our Blue Cross representative will be reviewing the benefits that are available from each plan to eligible employees. We will especially focus on the “Preventative Care Services” that are available (be watching Continued on page twelve. (3) Niswi NOVEMBER 2009 TREASURER’S REPORT. Tribal Council approved the following donations for the month of November: • Baraga County Regional Interagency Consumer Committee, Christmas party— $1,000. • Bart Stupak, re-election campaign— $1,000. • American Cancer Society, annual match campaign—$5,000. • Eagles Club/Ladies Auxiliary, Christmas donations for distribution through FIA and shelter home—$500. • Tribal Social Services, Christmas gifts for children in foster care—$2,000. This month, the second of two yearly 2% distributions were made to local units of government per our 1993 consent judgment. The amount distributed for our Baraga Casino was $152,608.40 and the Marquette amount was $173,313.65. The calculation is based on the net win of class III gaming or slot machines. The breakdown is as follows: Baraga County: Baraga Area Schools— Baraga Township— Bay Ambulance— Village of Baraga— L’Anse Area Schools— L’Anse Township— Village of L’Anse— $42,268.26 $14,143.14 $25,000.00 $10,872.61 $21,096.13 $ 2,377.93 $ 1,740.77 Marquette County: Charter Twp of Chocolay— Fire Department— Marquette County U.P.S.E.T.— Aging Services— Health Dept.— Gwinn Area Com. Schools/ Title VII Nat. Am. Educ.— City of Marquette NMU Center for Native Am. Studies— NMU Native Am. Student Assoc.— Superiorland Soccer Assoc.— U.P. Children’s Museum— Women’s Center— Marquette. County History Museum— Marquette Area Public School /Title VII Nat. Am. Educ.— Forsyth Township— Sands Twp. Fire Dept.— $35,000.00 $26,145.65 $10,000.00 $ 7,500.00 $ 7,500.00 $ 3,000.00 $ 8,000.00 $ 9,200.00 $ 5,000.00 $10,000.00 $25,000.00 $ 4,000.00 $ 6,218.00 $5,000.00 $11,750.00 Our 8% payments were also made this month. These payments are made pursuant to the 2000 Consent Judgment or stipulation that was entered into between the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community and the State of Michigan in order to keep our Marquette Casino open. The Marquette amount was $693,542.61. The amount for the Baraga Casino was $610,433.59. I was very busy preparing for the Christmas Gift Check distribution for Baraga and Marquette Counties. The total of the distribution was $869,600 with 1,087 people receiving the $800 payment. Thank you to all who helped, including Sheila Ekdahl, Violet Friisvall, Sharon Brunk, Diana Chaudier, and Linda Rabitaille as well as the Gift Check Committee. We have received the year-end financials for all but one Tribal Enterprise. Our businesses faired very well in fiscal year 2009 considering the state of the economy. The Pines Convenience Center Net Income was up 253% from last year. The Radio Stations Net Income also increased by 73%. The Baraga Casino finished up just $38,500 under projections. Marquette on the other hand didn’t do as well, coming in $778,548 under projections. Finances are closely monitored and will continue to be in the areas that are performing poorly. We operate a great number of programs and services for our members. We do the best we can with the money that we have while always trying to develop ways to bring in additional income. Contrary to what some may have heard, our Tribe makes approximately $12.5 million dollars per year and it all goes back into those programs and services. Last year we helped 296 households with $116,875 in the Emergency Funding program; 178 Seniors and Disabled members received a monthly pension totaling $431,400; the heat was paid for 168 Seniors and disabled members in the amount of $206,879; this was all done with Tribal monies. We also reimbursed parents $60,089 for expenses for their children, paid out $70,800 to our college students to help them purchases text books, spent approximately $450,000 in healthcare…and none of these amounts include any of the grants dollars that are also maintained and operated here. Of course this isn’t an all inclusive list. There are still many other programs. At the end of November, we had 276 employees in the government (including the Pines and Radio Station), 30 more than three years ago when the economy was much better. There are also 397 people employed in our casinos. All of these employees receive sick and annual time as well as the opportunity to contribute to the 401 (k) plan which is matched up to 6% by the Tribe. I would like to take this time to say welcome home to Chris Voakes, Alan Rajacic and Dennis Gerard who just returned from their deployment to Afghanistan and Iraq, as well as Mark Smith who is home on leave. If you see any of them, be sure to thank them for their service and continue to keep the others who are still there in your thoughts and prayers. As always, if there are any questions, comments, or concerns, please feel free to give me a call, stop by my office, or send me an email. Respectfully submitted, Jennifer Misegan, Treasurer Our Deepest Sympathy William R. LaFernier January 4, 1930—November 14, 2009 William Raymond LaFernier, age 79, a resident of DeQueen, Arkansas, died Saturday, November 14, 2009, in the DeQueen Medical Center, DeQueen. He was born on January 4, 1930, in Keweenaw Bay, Michigan, to John and Emma (St. Arnold) LaFernier. He left Michigan as a young man for work. He traveled with the harvest and never returned. His family did not know where he was but often thought of him; he was missed by his siblings and they wished for his return. “Bouncer,” as his family knew him, had come to DeQueen on (4) Niiwin a train, looking for warmer weather and work. He became sick and wasn’t able to return North. He had worked in Oregon. Mr. LaFernier had been a resident of Brookwood Nursing and Rehab Center for several years. He was preceded in death by his parents, a brother, Edward, and three sisters, Myrtle Gauthier, Annabella Jacker, and Florence Lofquist. He is survived by a sister, Susie LaFernier of Covington, Michigan, and several nieces and nephews in Michigan. A memorial service was held in DeQueen, Arkansas. “You Make The Difference”®, Will begin at Even Start Beg inning this month, KBIC EVEN START Family Literacy Center will be hosting a new Parent - Child Interaction Program with a focus on building language and literacy in the home. This parent education series of nine workshops will be led by two licensed program staff, Christine Awonohopay and Gail Juntunen. Entitled “You Make The Difference”®, (YMTD) the program is based on 30 years of experience through the Hanen Centre and is currently used world-wide. KBIC EVEN START began using the Native American/First Nations edition of the parent guide last year with positive response from participating families. Eager to expand this framework, Gail and Christine completed a regional training this past September in Chicago. Newly licensed, both presenters are planning to pilot and colead the YMTD program with their program families on Thursday, January 7, 2010. Although enrollment will be limited to KBIC Even Start participants initially, plans are underway to offer the workshops for other family service organizations in the near future. When asked why KBIC EVEN START selected this parent education curriculum for their family literacy program, coordinator Gail Juntunen responded, “Research has shown that a young child’s language, social, and literacy development depends on positive parent-child interactions that effectively engage the child at the proper ages and stages of development. The You Make The Difference program is a down-to-earth resource that gives parents easy strategies using everyday types of routines to promote their child’s early learning and language.” “The workshops will focus on ways to help parents learn how to interact with their children using the practical “3A approach.” Lessons will include ways to ‘Allow’ the child to lead, ‘Adapt’ to share the moment, and ‘Add’ new experiences and words,” Juntunen explained. Utilizing parent-friendly resources, the YMTD team will provide a very “hands-on” learning environment for parent and child learners. Each session will consist of parent learning time while children participate in guided activities in the KBIC EVEN START Center’s new family activity area. Later, parents will practice key activities with their children under the guidance of trained staff and have the opportunity to create a video memory book. Toys and resources will also be provided to extend the activities into the home. The YMTD program is designed to help parents develop a responsive communication style. “This means,” stated Juntunen, “that parents become ‘tuned-in’ to their child more effectively with early learning opportunities. This helps to build a child’s communication skills and confidence which, in turn, helps prepare that child for school.” “What I like best about this program is the practical ways it can help parents foster and enrich their young child’s learning through everyday routines and activities. We’re looking forward to bringing You Make The Difference to Baraga County parents!” concluded workshop co-presenter Awonohopay. For more information on how you or someone you know may benefit from family literacy, please call the KBIC EVEN START Center at 353-8161. ~ submitted by Gail Juntunen To place an ad, submit an article, or relate information or ideas on possible articles contact: Lauri Denomie at newsletter@kbic-nsn.gov or 906-201-0263. SECRETARY’S REPORT FOR THE MONTH OF NOVEMBER 2009. In November 2009, the Tribal Council had one Regular Tribal Council Meeting and five Special Council Meetings. The Regular Council Meeting was held on November 7, 2009, and is covered in the December 2009 Tribal Newsletter. At the council meeting held November 5, 2009, following actions were taken: • Approved the addendum to the Land Use Planning Consultant Contract with UP Engineers; • Approved Resolution KB1717-2009 Sylvia Murphy Allotted Interest Acquisition; • Approved the purchase of a 2006 Silverado in the amount of $19,000.00 from Kissel’s to be leased to the Natural Resources Department; • Certified the October 31, 2009, Primary Election results; • Approved the purchase of a server for the Radio Station; • Approved the Professional Services Agreement with Ron Gnadinger for maintenance and repair services for the radio stations; • Approved a donation of up to $2,365 for William Chosa for a furnace pending funding from LiHeap and Ojibwa Housing (Community Assistance Programs were able to assist); • Agreed to move forward with two Childcare Centers (one in L’Anse and one in Baraga) and to pursue subcontracting with ITC; • Awarded the Contract for the Donald A. LaPointe Health & Education Facility Renovation and Expansion to Ojibwa Builders in the amount of $1,248,521. At the council meeting held November 6, 2009, following actions were taken: • Approved a donation of $250 for the Four Thunders Drum Group for their trip to Gwinn; • Approved Resolution KB1694-2009 Timber • • • • • • • Salvage Harvest on Pinery Road; Approved the Christmas Gift Check Guidelines; Approved the purchase of eight gas pumps with TV’s for the Pines in the amount of $220,663.88; Approved an addition to the Personnel Policies for a Proclaimed Illness for all Tribal Entities; Approved the License Renewal of the PrePrimary Education Program; Approved October donations; Agreed to re-evaluate Substance Abuse Request #002-09 once treatment and aftercare are completed; Agreed to move forward with obtaining bids and clearing property in L’Anse for the new gas station. At the council meeting held November 12, 2009, following actions were taken: • Agreed Council will receive monthly financials from all entities; • Continued review of the Comprehensive Plan; • Agreed to hold the Tribal Government Christmas Party at the Big Bucks Bingo Hall; • Approved the bid and contract in the amount of $36,800 of MD Contracting for installation of new hydrants and replacement of existing hydrants in Zeba and Baraga; • Approved the Services Agreement with Dale Schmeisser for WIC; • Donated $300 in supplies for the Mary Geroux benefit dinner; • Required the Ojibwa Builders to supply a letter of credit for the Health Center Renovation; • Held the 2nd Reading of Proposed Ordinance 2009-03 – Amendment to Ordinance 2004-001 KBIC Hunting, Fishing, Trapping, and Gathering Code. T.E.A.M. COMPLETED IN LOCAL SCHOOLS The Teaching Educating And Mentoring (T.E.A.M.) Law Enforcement School Liaison Program has been completed in the Baraga and L’Anse Area Schools. T.E.A.M., which is one of the programs that has been implemented as part of the KBIC Weed & Seed Initiative, was presented to approximately 190 fourth and fifth grade students in Baraga and L’Anse. T.E.A.M. is a proactive effort to make schools and communities safer by promoting an understanding of social rules, the consequences of unlawful behavior, and students’ responsibilities as good citizens. Weed & Seed Director Chris Gerard states, “One of the most important goals of the Weed & Seed Initiative is to develop positive, working relationships with community stakeholders. When researching programs to implement as part of the KBIC initiative, we try to focus on programs that will have the greatest impact on a large part of our community. To be able to implement a program that will have positively impacted 190 fourth and fifth graders is a great feeling for all of us involved. We’re extremely happy to have developed a positive relationship with our area school districts and we plan to continue this program in the future. When you develop a positive relationship with a school district, it allows that connection between administrators, staff, students and parents; all of these individuals are important pieces of our communities.” The elementary T.E.A.M. curriculum is a seven week program that teaches basic safety rules such as bicycle and pedestrian safety, the proper use of 911, fire and gun prevention, and being safe on the internet. The program was taught by Officer Tyler Larson of the Keweenaw Bay Tribal Police Department. Larson attended a week long T.E.A.M. officer training at the Michigan State Police Academy and was certified in August to teach personal safety lessons in schools. Photo compliments of Barry Drue, L’Anse, Senti~ submitted by Chris Gerard. nel. At the council meeting held November 13, 2009, following actions were taken: • Met with Gary Sanden of the Seneca Nation; • Approved the Memorandum of Agreement with the Ojibwa Community College. At the council meeting held November 19, 2009, following actions were taken: • Approved the meeting minutes of June 22, 2009, June 25, 2009, and July 9, 2009; • Approved the list of registered voters; • Approved Resolution KB1720-2009 – Damien Swartz Recreational Lease; • Approved Resolution KB1721-2009 Baraga 2% Distribution; • Approved Resolution KB1722-2009 Marquette 2% Distribution; • Donated $15,000 in fuel from the Pines to the Baraga County Convention and Visitors Bureau for their groomers; • Approved the Business License of Ojibwa Plumbing and Heating; • Denied the request of Tom Darcy, Jr. for down payment assistance for a home in California; • Held Employee Appeal of Termination Hearing Case #016-09; • Agreed to use $90,000 of Army Corp of Engineering Assistance for the Baraga Water Intake Proposal; • Agreed to pay the Building Inspector $176 for the Kwik Lube permit fees and to work on a fee schedule for future inspections; • Agreed to postpone the decision on the Appeal of Termination Hearing until the next meeting; • Accepted the resignations of Gaming Commissioner Jim Rasanen, effective immediately, and of Gaming Commissioner Dale Shalifoe, effective Jan. 1, and to post the positions. Respectfully submitted, Toni Minton, Secretary GEROUX’S KWIK LUBE HOLDS GRAND OPENING Richard Geroux held a grand opening for his new Kwik Lube business on Friday, December 11. Kwik Lube, located on M38 in Baraga, offers a quick way to get an oil change in the ten-minute Photo by Stan Spruce. drive through Shown above is young Richard Geroux b u s i n e s s . helping to promote his dad’s new business. Geroux offers a basic service including up to five quarts of oil and a filter change. Full service includes oil, filter, lube, a 21point vehicle inspection and topping off of fluids. A premium service option is available with bottled oil. Geroux also indicated that synthetic oil and a diesel service is available at the Kwik Lube. Kwik Lube, located on M38, is open MondayFriday 10 am—6pm; Saturdays 10 am—3 pm, and no appointments are necessary. Geroux plans on expanding his business to include auto customization, detailing, audio systems and special order items (lift kits and oversize tires). Questions can be directed to 353-KARS. ~ submitted by newsletter editor (5) Naanan KBIC Christmas parties continue. The Marquette parties began with a Senior Christmas Dinner held on Friday, December 18, at the Marquette Ojibwa Community Center. Seniors enjoyed a dinner of turkey, ham, mashed potatoes with gravy, and a variety of desserts. Marian Abbot made the flower arrangements for the tables which were given away during the drawings. Pete Shalifoe donated a tin man he created for the drawings. The Teenage Dance was held on Saturday, December 19, at the Marquette Ojibwa Community Center. Music was provided by a rental from Jim’s Music. Pizza was served, and the teens each received a gift card. A Chi Miigwetch to Officer Tony for attending and keeping the dance safe. The youth party was held on Sunday, December 20, at the U.P. Children’s Museum. The children visited with Santa, received gifts and enjoyed a carriage ride provided by Nathanial Luttenton. Carrie Ashbrooke states, “When planning these parties it takes people and time. Your comments have been well received and the Community is urged to participate in planning next year’s parties. Watch the newsletter next October and November for the 2010 Christmas party planning and development dates.” ~ submitted by newsletter editor Photo by Carrie Ashbrooke Photo by Carrie Ashbrooke Newsletter photo Newsletter photo Newsletter photo Newsletter photo Newsletter photo Newsletter photo Newsletter photo KBIC GOV’T CHRISTMAS PARTY KBIC held their annual government employee Christmas Party on Saturday, December 5, 2009, at the Big Bucks Bingo. Employees enjoyed a delicious dinner cooked and presented by Migizi Wadiswan (Eagle’s Nest) Restaurant. The evening began at 5 p.m. with a social hour and dinner was served at 6 p.m. “The Tree of Christmas Fortune Trivia Giveaway” game was held after dinner. All employees had an even chance of winning VISA cards ranging from $75-$500, or a consolation gift card from the Pines Convenience Center. Julie Raby won the Packer tickets. All employees received a $50 Pines gift card and $25 Pat’s Foods card for this year’s Christmas bonus. The event was planned by the Christmas Party Task Force. Everybody enjoyed the festive evening. ~ submitted by newsletter editor Newsletter photo Susan LaFernier presents the Tree of Christmas Fortune. Socks contained VISA cards for the winning Trivia contestants. Newsletter photo Contestant Lynn Aho with CEO Larry Denomie, who hosted the Christmas trivia game. (6) Ningodwaaswi ATTENTION: ALL TRIBAL COMMERCIAL FISHERMEN Applications for Small Boat and Large Boat Commercial Fishing Licenses for the Year 2010-2011 Commercial Fishing Season are available at the KBIC License Department located in the KBIC Tribal Center. The new license year will begin: May 1, 2010. Applications must be returned to the Licensing/Motor Vehicle Office by: Friday, February 12, 2010. All applications for licenses will be reviewed and selected by the Tribal Council. The license fees are: $75.00 for Small Boat-On Reservation; $200.00 for Small Boat-Off Reservation; and $500.00 for Large Boat-Off Reservation. All tribal members who apply must have completed the required U.S. Food and Drug Administration Hazard Analysis and critical Point (HACCP) training and present a copy of the certificate with the application. A Boat Safety Fishing Vessel Examination with a certified official must be completed and that documentation must be provided with the application. The application also requests fishing vessel information including the vessel name, number & length. For Boat Safety Inspections contact: Officer Tim Tilson/KBIC Conservation 353-6626 Officer Dale Goodreau/KBIC Conservation 353-6626 U.S. Coast Guard/Hancock 482-1520 Newsletter photo New Schedule/Ojibwe Language teachings Apprentice teachings: JoAnne Racette—TBA; Lisa Denomie—10am daily at Pre-primary/ daycare building; Terri Denomie—2 pm Fridays at EHS/HS building in Zeba; Joe Dowd— 6 pm Tuesdays at his residence in Zeba (temporary); Liz Julio— 3:30 pm Tuesdays at Ojibwa Community College; Dale Shalifoe— 6 pm Mondays at OHA Senior’s Complex (Commons area) Wednesday night Language Table: Chippewa Room #1, Ojibwa Motel 7 pm. The public is welcome to attend any of these teachings. Lisa and Terri’s teachings occur with the children of their respective programs. Keweenaw Bay Indian Community Employment Opportunities http://www.kbicnsn.gov/html/ personnel.htm ∗ On Call positions: * Community Service Supervisor * LPN * RN * Unit Manager * Account Executive/Sales * Cashier * Family Aide * Receptionist/Clerical Worker * Pre-Primary Teaching Assistant * Youth Program & Facility Attendant Dental Hygienist—January 6, 2010 For current job listings, complete job announcements, applications and closing dates contact: KBIC Personnel Department, 16429 Bear Town Road, Baraga, MI 49908-9210 or 906-353-6623, ext 4176 or 4140 or visit: www.ojibwa.com. OJIBWEMOWIN KEWEENAW BAY INDIAN COMMUNITY Gichi Manidoo Giizis — Great Spirit Moon—January W e l c o m e Alexander Vincent Madosh-Green born 10/27/09, to Lisa Madosh and Eugene Ben Green. Alexander weighed 9 lbs. 1 oz. and was 21 ½ inches long at birth. The language page was designed from reference of “A Concise Dictionary of Minnesota Ojibwe” by John D. Nichols and Earl Nyholm, and from the Freelang Ojibwe/English on-line ~ Designed by newsletter editor dictionary. biiwan aagimag agoodwaaganen 1 gawajiwinan boodawaaganan waaboozwaaboo anwebi 2 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 3 1 2 3 4 Across 1. snare 2. snowshoe 3. blizzard Down 1. rabbit soup 2. fireplace 3. freezing 4. rest a _ _ _ _ i (rest) a _ _ _ d w _ _ _ _ n _ n (snare) g _ w _ _ i _ i _ _ n (freezing) b _ _ _ _ n (blizzard) a _ _ _ m a _ (snowshoe) b _ _ _ a w _ _ _ a _ a n (fireplace) w _ _ b _ _ z w _ _ _ o o (rabbit soup) VOAKES RETURNS HOME FROM AFGHANISTAN KBIC member Christopher Voakes was amongst the soldiers of 1431st Sapper Unit who returned home to the Copper Country on November 24. These Soldiers headed out of the Copper Country on November 30, 2008, to Mississippi for training. They were deployed to Afghanistan where they searched for improvised explosive devices and served in a number of other areas. During the past two weeks, the soldiers returned stateside for debriefing at BUILDERS Residential Building Specialists 353 353--7127 KBIC EVEN START Welcome Maddan Charles Owens born 12/07/09, in Milwaukee, WI, to Jami and Randy Owens, Jr. Maddan weighed 8 lbs. 6 ozs. and was 20 inches long at birth. Family Literacy Center “2010 Open Enrollment” Parent Workshop begins January 7th! Call to sign up today! 353-8161 Camp Shelby. While serving his term, Christopher Voakes received a purple heart for injuries received from multiple direct IED explosions disabling the vehicles. Christopher Voakes is greeted by his daughter Josilyn Rose. Photo complimentary of the L’Anse Sentinel, Chris Ford. ~ submitted by newsletter editor BUILDING SUPPLY PLUMBING & HEATING For all your building supplies For all your maintenance needs. 353 353--8850 New ess Busin 353 353--6967 Keweenaw Bay Ojibwa Housing Authority "Owned and operated by the Ojibwa Housing Authority. All proceeds go to affordable housing activities in our community." Newsletter editor designed ad (7) Niizhwaaswi How Clean Is Your Air? January is RADON ACTION MONTH—Test Your Home Today!! The KBIC Natural Resources Department is distributing FREE self-test kits to Tribal Members during Radon Action Month. Contact Char Spruce at (906) 524-5757, ext. 14, for more information. What is radon? Radon is a radioactive gas. It is colorless, odorless, tasteless, and chemically inert. Unless you test for it, there is no way of telling how much is present. Radon is formed by the natural radioactive decay of uranium in rock, soil, and water. Naturally existing, low levels of uranium occur widely in Earth's crust. It can be found in all 50 states. Once produced, radon moves through the ground to the air above. Some remains below the surface and dissolves in water that collects and flows under the ground's surface. Radon has a half-life of about four days—half of a given quantity of it breaks down every four days. When radon undergoes radioactive decay, it emits ionizing radiation in the form of alpha particles. What health effects are associated with radon exposure? The Surgeon General has warned that radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States. There are currently no conclusive data on whether children are at greater risk than adults from radon. No specific subtype of lung cancer is associated with radon exposure. Only smoking causes more cases of lung cancer – if you smoke and have long-term exposure to radon, your chances of getting lung cancer are greatly increased. Radon gas decays into radioactive particles that can get trapped in your lungs when you breathe. As they break down further, these particles release small bursts of energy. This can damage lung tissue and lead to lung cancer over the course of your lifetime. Breathing radon does not cause any shortterm health effects such as shortness of breath, coughing, headaches, or fever, so it is not possible to know if you have been exposed right-away. What is the "acceptable" level of radon in air? The EPA states that any radon exposure carries some risk; no level of radon exposure is always safe. However, EPA recommends homes be fixed if an occupant's longterm exposure will average 4 picocuries per liter (pCi/L) or higher. How often is indoor radon a problem? Nearly one out of every 15 homes has a radon level EPA considers to be elevated—4 pCi/L or greater. The U.S. average radon-in-air level in single family homes is 1.3 pCi/L. Because most people spend as much as 90 percent of their time indoors, indoor exposure to radon is an important concern. How does radon get into a building? Most indoor radon comes into the building from the soil or rock beneath it. Most of the gas moves through cracks and other openings. Once inside, the radon can become trapped and concentrated. Openings which commonly allow easy flow of the gases in include the following: • Cracks in floors and walls • Openings around sump pumps and drains • Gaps in suspended floors • Cavities in walls • Joints in construction materials • Gaps around utility penetrations (pipes and wires) Radon may also be dissolved in water, particularly well water. After coming from a faucet, about one ten thousandth of the radon in water is typically released into the air. The more radon there is in the water, the more it Eating Green: Beyond Spinach What does it mean to eat green, and why is it important? Industrial agriculture relies heavily on synthetic chemical pesticides and fertilizers, the use of fossil fuels, and concentrated operations such as feedlots, factory farms, and crop monoculture. These practices place a burden on the environment and human health. As consumers we have the choice of more sustainable, green options. Reduce Meat Consumption Reducing the consumption of meat produces the greatest benefit to both human health and the environment. Meat is the most resource intensive food requiring large amounts of water, grain, land, and chemical inputs including hormones, pesticides, fertilizers, and antibiotics. Moreover, animal based diets that are high in saturated fat and protein are linked to heart disease; colon, breast, and prostate cancer; and type II diabetes. David Pimentel, Professor of Ecology in Cornell University's College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, found some interesting facts:  The seven billion livestock animals in the United States consume five times as much grain as is consumed directly by the entire American population.  Each year an estimated 41 million tons of plant protein is fed to U.S. livestock to produce an estimated seven million tons of animal protein for human consumption.  On average, animal protein production in the U.S. requires 28 kilocalories (kcal) for every kcal of protein produced for human consumption. Beef and lamb are the most costly, in terms of fossil fuel energy input to protein output at 54:1 and 50:1, respectively. Turkey and chicken meat production are the most efficient (13:1 and 4:1, respectively). Grain production, on average, requires 3.3 kcal of fossil fuel for every kcal of protein produced.  U.S. agriculture accounts for 87 percent of all the fresh water consumed each year. Every kilogram of beef produced takes 100,000 liters of water. Some 900 liters of water go into producing a kilogram of wheat. Potatoes are even less "thirsty," at 500 liters per kilogram.  More than 302 million hectares of land are devoted to producing feed for the U.S. livestock population.  About 90 percent of U.S. cropland is losing soil -- to wind and water erosion -- at 13 times above the sustainable rate. Go Organic Organic farming is a form of agriculture that relies on crop rotation, green manure, compost, biological pest control, and mechanical cultivation to maintain soil productivity and control pest, excluding or strictly limiting the use of synthetic fertilizers and synthetic pesticides, plant growth regulators, livestock feed additives, and genetically modified organisms. When you eat organic, you are not only can contribute to the indoor radon level. The average outdoor air level is about 0.4 pCi/L, but it can be higher in some areas. While radon problems may be more common in some geographic areas, any home may have an elevated radon level. New and old homes, well- putting healthy food in your body but supporting a healthy ecosystems and workers who are safer from chemicals. Buying organic can be more expensive. The Environmental Working Group created a guide to help consumers choose which fruits and vegetables to buy organic to reduce pesticide exposure. Below is a list of the dirty dozen (those you should buy organic) and the clean 15 (those that have less pesticide residues). Dirty Dozen 1. Peach 2. Apple 3. Bell Pepper 4. Celery 5. Nectarine 6. Strawberries 7. Cherries 8. Kale 9. Lettuce 10. Grapes (imported) Clean 15 1. Onion 2. Avocado 3. Sweet Corn 4. Pineapple 5. Mango 6. Asparagus 7. Sweet Peas 8. Kiwi 9. Cabbage 10. Eggplant 11. Carrot 12. Pear 11. Papaya 12. Watermelon 13. Broccoli 14. Tomato 15. Sweet Potato Buy Local Buying or harvesting seasonal, local food reduces the amount of energy required for food production because of the closer distance from farm to plate. According to the Leopold Center for Sustainable Agriculture, food, on average, travels 1,500 miles to get to your local grocery store. Buying local also supports the local economy and puts more money in the farmers’ pocket by not having to spend so much on packing, processing, refrigeration, marketing, and shipping. Better yet try to grow your own garden (organically of course) to bring the food even closer to home. Other Ideas Look for unpackaged or minimally packaged foods, instead of buying foods that come in excessive packaging (most of which is petroleum-based plastics). Experiment with bringing your own containers and buying in bulk, or pick brands that use bio-based plastic packing. And of course, try and recycle or reuse any packaging you end up with. Buy less, waste less. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, food leftovers are the single-largest component of the waste stream by weight in the United States. Over 12 percent of the total municipal solid waste generated in American households was food scraps and less than three percent was recovered. The rest was thrown away and disposed in landfills or combusted in incinerators. Composting leftovers will ease the burden on the landfill, and give you a great organic fertilizer for healthy garden soil. If you have any questions or would like more information, contact the Natural Resources Department at 524-5757. ~ submitted by Katherine Kruse sealed and drafty homes, and homes with or without basements can have a problem. Homes below the third floor of a multi-family building are particularly at risk. January has been declared as National Radon Action Month by the Environmental Protection Agency (U.S. EPA) as an effort to take action against radon by educating people on the risks of exposure, testing, and mitigation. Learn more at http://www.epa.gov/radon/ nram/. ~ submitted by Char Spruce (8) Ishwaaswi L’Anse Reservation Well Abandonments Update In 2004, we received funding from the Bureau of Indian Affairs Environmental Management program to Unused well needing abandonment. abandon unused Tribal member wells on the L’Anse Reservation. To date we have abandoned 17 wells that were no longer in use. Unused wells pose a risk to drinking water sources by providing a potential pathway for contaminants to be released directly to groundwater. Abandoning unused wells by sealing them with cement or bentonite eliminates this potential risk and helps ensure groundwater aquifers are protected. Well abandonments have been contracted out to Rhinelander Well Drilling and Larson Well and Pump Company. Tribal Construction Company has sealed some shallow, dug wells located on-Reservation. Well abandonment is just one of the many ways your Natural Resource Department is working to protect human health and environmental quality on the Reservation. If you have knowledge of an unabandoned well or have any questions, please contact Micah Petoskey, Water Resources Specialist, KBNRD at 524-5757 ext. 15 or mpetoskey@kbic-nsn.gov. ~ submitted by Micah Petoskey COLLEGE PREP MEDICINE High school students from across Michigan visited Northern Michigan University in Marquette recently for the College Prep Medicine Wheel Academy. The academy was the brainchild of two women in the NMU Center for Native American Studies: faculty member, Adriana Greci Green and director, April Lindala. They realized there were limited opportunities for Native American high school students in the region to obtain an in-depth campus experience (unlike middle school students who attend a summer leadership program at NMU). They also recognized that there was little Native American representation in the health sciences, particularly nursing. The two-year program was funded by the NMU Wildcat Innovation Fund and the NMU College of Arts and Sciences. Several partners from Marquette General Health System, along with faculty and students from the university’s School of Nursing and Clinical Sciences Department, contributed to the success of the program. “We have been hearing very positive and enthusiastic feedback from the youth who visited with us and their chaperones, as well as from the faculty who participated,” said Greci Green. “We are grateful to the NMU students who ran the workshops, mentored these high school students, and shared their own personal passions about their chosen fields. It was engaging, informational, and fun. I don't think the youth were ever bored or disinterested; tired, perhaps, but definitely into it. We also had community participation in the karaoke/drum social and some special time at the fire site with my colleague Kenn Pitawanakwat, who brought it all back to center.” Niim Reinhardt, a senior from Gwinn, participated in the College Prep Medicine Wheel Academy. She said it opened her eyes to the variety of health-related career choices available. “I now know that health care doesn’t always have to mean being a doctor or nurse,” she added. “There are many people who go into fields like speech, physical therapy, and hear- The Ojibwa Community Library is excited about the newest addition to the library. PII, patron initiated interlibrary loan, is now available for those patrons who have internet at home. Visit the library to learn how to use this service. Also ask about MeL, Michigan electronic library, this gives you access to journals, magazines, newspapers, and books on nearly every topic imaginable. A great resource for everyone. ~ Mary Bergerson, Library Director Photo by NMU, Center for Native American Studies ing. This is a great way to introduce the health field to those who aren’t interested in it only because they know nothing about it. It’s also a great way to get more background information on the career you choose because you actually get to see what it is that those people do for a living and that influences your choice a lot.” Betsy Trudeau, a senior at Hannahville Indian School, said, “It made me want to be a doctor even more. My favorite part of the pro- gram was when I got to watch open-heart surgery at the hospital during my shadowing. I also learned about the prefusionists and what role they have in the operating room. I would suggest this program to other students who are interested in the health field, only because there aren't many opportunities to go and visit inside a hospital and to meet the people we did.” When asked if the program changed their viewpoints about the health field, Manistique junior Felicia Reid wrote, “I learned more about what I would like to work in medical field and how competitive it is.” One student commented in the anonymous survey that the best part of the program was being at the Center for Native American Studies fire site and learning more about Anishinaabe culture. The next session of the College Prep Medicine Wheel Academy will take place in midMay of 2010. Anyone interested in learning more should call the NMU Center for Native American Studies at 906-227-1397. ~ submitted by April Lindala (9) Zhaangaswi website: www.kboha.com Mission: To provide affordable and attractive housing opportunities in a safe and healthy environment to qualifying tribal members of the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community, encourage self-improvement of the community’s low income families, and provide employment opportunities. Programs and Services provided by the KBOHA: • Low income rental homes and apartments 1. 158 Homes/apartments in Baraga 2. 50 Homes in Zeba 3. 40 Homes in Marquette/Harvey; • Supportive housing/transitional housing to help address family issues; • New, custom built, super-insulated homes for homeownership on Bear Town Road; • Home buyer training to prepare members for home ownership; • Financial literacy training to improve members’ financial skills; • Home maintenance training to improve members’ ability to maintain homes; • Home rehabilitation program to improve the condition of memberowned homes; • Home emergency assistance program to remedy negative conditions in the home; • Individual development account program – a 4:1 matched savings program for member goals that include: “Good day! My name is Timothy A.E. Fillmore, most call me Tim. First of all, I would like to thank the KBIC for inviting me to work and be a part of their community as a member of Tribal Social Services Department. As the Foster Care Title IV-E Project Director, I will be assisting the KBIC in implementing a strong and supportive program for the families and youth of the KBIC. A little about myself, I’m a father of three awesome kids; Jack (7), Eileen Dawn (4) and baby Llewellyn (1½) and married to Kyra Ziomkowski-Fillmore. My life revolves around them, and when I’m not with them, I’m here! I attended Grand Valley State University and received a Bachelor of Science in Biology and Psychology (2000) and decided to spend a year in rural Alaska (2000-2001), where I taught secondary science in the Yup’ik speaking village of Chefornak. From here I completed a Master’s degree in Environmental Policy at Michigan Technological University (2003) where I continued my research with the Yup’ik aiding them in documenting their ethnographic history for their Traditional Council. Upon completion of my Master’s degree I worked for a year at KBOCC as Dean of Science and Math helping with their Environmental Science Program. I then took a job with the Bay Mills Indian Community where I taught secondary science classes for a year at their Ojibwe Charter School (2004-2005). Finally, I made way back to Marquette, where I started my Social Work career at Great Lakes Recovery Centers, where I worked for two years as a substance abuse counselor (20052007). Recently, I have spent the past two years working for Teaching Family Homes as a Family Specialist. I am currently finishing a Clinical Master’s Degree in Social Work from Michigan State University with the hope that knowledge through that program, the Creator, and KBIC will aide me in successfully serving your community.” (10) Midaaswi 1. Down payment assistance for home purchase; 2. College tuition and expenses for residents; 3. Business expansion/start-up expenses. • Low cost home improvement loan program for qualifying Tribal members; • Low cost tax preparation program for residents and Tribal members; • Surplus FEMA mobile home program for Tribal members; • Stipend program covering mileage and child care expenses for residents attending college; • Affordable curbside trash service for residents and members; • Prescription subsidy program to reimburse Tribal elders and disabled households for prescriptions purchased; • Ojibwa Building Supply Do It Best—providing Tribal employment, quality affordable building supplies and profits for housing programs; • Ojibwa Builders Construction Company—providing Tribal employment, quality affordable construction, and profits for housing programs; • Market rate rentals—five rental properties in Baraga and one in Negaunee- providing profits for housing programs; • Ojibwa BP, Car Wash and Laundry- providing Tribal employment, superior products and service, and profits for housing programs. A m b e r Franti has been hired as an Information Technology Support Technician. Amber graduated from Michigan Tech in 2006, with a Bachelor’s Degree Newsletter photo in Mathematics/Statistics. Amber states, “I recently worked at Terex Handlers in the materials department, performing IT support on the side from regular duties. I was born and raised in Baraga County, and I am excited that I could find a job in the area with the tough economy, so I could raise my family here. I have a three-year-old son, Logan, and we currently reside in Covington. I enjoy playing softball, hanging out with family and friends, camping, and recently joined the bowling league.” Waste Management services provided by the Ojibwa Housing Authority will be separated between Wednesdays and Thursdays starting in 2010. Baraga housing residents and those located on Mission 41 will receive pick-up on Thursdays. All other Baraga households and L’Anse residents will continue Wednesday services. Contact OHA at 353-7117, ext 101, with any questions. Happy Holidays! KBNRD Assistance from Ottawa Sportsman’s Club Members of the Ottawa Sportsman’s Club spent two days assisting KBNRD in marking >30,000 lake trout and brook trout for stocking into local streams. The size of fish ranged from four inches to eleven inch adult brook trout. As part of a typical hatchery operation protocol, fish that are to be introduced into the wild from a hatchery should be marked in a way that makes them identifiable as hatchery origin. In this case, 30,000 fish needed to have two of their fins “clipped” leaving a permanent mark for later survival research purposes. This is time consuming work, and we appreciate the efforts of the Ottawa Sportsman’s Club! Thanks! (Miigwetch!) Assisting were: Tim Bennett, Harm and Otto Bennink, Josh Dufek, Bill Lahti, Anthony LaPlante, Sr., Arnie Putala, Mike Roth, Harlan Tollefson, and Russ Weisinger. ~ article and pictures submitted by Evelyn Ravindran Did you know? Facts about the Ojibwa Senior Meal Program • Congregate Meals are available at the Ojibwa Senior Center five days a week for seniors age 55 and up. • Home Delivered Meals (HDM) are available to *qualified persons five days a week. (see below criteria) In addition to providing nutrition services to older Indians, a Tribal organization may: 1. Provide nutrition services to the spouse of older Indians; 2. Provide nutrition service to non-elderly handicapped or disabled Indians who reside in housing facilities occupied primarily by the elderly, at which congregate nutrition services are provided; 3. Offer a meal, on the same basis as meals are provided to older Indians, to individuals providing volunteer services during meal hours; 4. Provide a meal to individuals with disabilities who reside in a non-institutional household with and accompany a person eligible for congregated meals under that part. Criteria for home delivered meals include: 9.2.3.10 Title III C: A. Individuals eligible to receive congregated meals and nutrition support services include: 1. any person age 55 or older and his/her spouse regardless of age; or 2. any handicapped or disabled individuals, who have not attained 55 years of age, but who reside in housing facilities occupied primarily by elderly persons at which congregated nutrition services provided; or 3. Individuals, regardless of age, providing volunteer services during meal hours based on procedures established by each area agency; or 4. Individuals with disabilities, regardless of age, who reside at home with or accompany eligible, older individuals, are eligible based on procedures established by each area agency, which allow nutrition providers the option to provide such services. B. Individuals eligible to receive home delivered meals and nutrition support services include those individuals, age 60 or older, who have been determined to be in need of home delivered meals based on an assessment of need, developed by the state agency and area agencies, which assesses functional ability, adequate support systems, and risk. 1. Area agencies must insure that each nutrition program uses written eligibility criteria to assess the need for service. At a minimum, the following criteria must be included: a. an older individual must be homebound, that is unable to leave home due to disabling physical emotional or cognitive impairment; b. an older must be unable to participate in a congregate meal because of impairment or lack of appropriate transportation; c. an individual is unable to obtain food and prepare a nutritious meal; d. an individual has no family, friends or community support able and willing to assist in meal preparation. 2. Depending on the individual’s condition, the eligibility status must be reevaluated on a regular basis but not less frequently than once every six months; 3. Priority shall be given to emergency requests in which home delivered meals are started as soon as possible after the determination of urgent need. * Please see Philly Ekdahl or call 353-6096. CEO’S REPORT FOR THE MONTH OF NOVEMBER 2009. Activities reported by the CEO Larry Denomie for the month of November 2009. Last month I reported on a grant opportunity for the Tribes Wellness Program. Unfortunately, there wasn’t enough time to complete the grant application,and we conceded to have the Inter-Tribal Council of MI apply on our behalf. If ITC is funded, there may be a possibility that KBIC will have a wellness coordinator funded. The award notices are expected in early 2010. In October of this year, I attended the two language programs the Tribe offers which are coordinated by Gary Loonsfoot, Jr. I was very impressed with what is taking place through the two programs, and our Community should be very proud of the accomplishment. I encourage everyone to stop by and see for themselves the outstanding progress that is taking place. The first program I visited is under the instruction of Earl Otchingwanigan. The nearly three hour class is held every Thursday at the Tribe’s Cultural Center located adjacent to the campground. The six apprentices and Earl are to be commended for their efforts and dedication to the program. It was clearly evident that progress is being made and acquisition of our language is occurring. The six apprentices; Lisa Denomie, Joe Dowd, Liz Julio, Terri Denomie, Dale Shalifoe and JoAnne Racette are all committed and are making a difference in the revitalization of our language. The second program I visited was the Bay Mills Pane Immersion Program. That program is also showing success and is also conducted at the Cultural Center. Their classes take place one weekend per month totaling 24 hours and there are five sessions per semester. While partaking in the class, I was able to easily identify students who have been in the program longer that others such as Peggy Minton, Bev Lussier, Toni Minton, Peggy Dunn and others I didn’t know. The instructors, Barbra Nolan and Rose Trudeau did an outstanding job with engaging the nearly 20 students who were in attendance in their all native language skits. Again, all of the students taking part in the program are to be commended for their part in revitalizing the language. Both programs are very thankful for the Tribal Council’s support of their programs and will in the near future attend one of your meetings to share their gift and experiences. On November 13, the Ojibwa Community College hosted a celebration in light of their accomplishment of attaining initial candidacy status from the Higher Learning Commission. I wasn’t able to attend the function but do extend congratulations to the Board of Regents, President Parrish and all of the staff and faculty who worked very hard to reach their goal. During the month of November meetings were held to further design and plan the Communities Solid Waste Transfer Station. Grant funds through the Indian Health Service totaling $500,000 will be used to construct the facility in the Tribes Industrial Park. A business plan is being developed to operate the facility. Once operational, the business will create two to three new jobs. On November 23rd and 24th, I participated in a comprehensive project development and capacity building initiative for a supportive housing program for the Tribe. The opportunity was planned and organized by Vicki Dompier of the Ojibwa Housing Authority. Two presenters involved with the Corporation for Supportive Housing led the full and half day sessions. The sessions took the group of KBIC and Ojibwa Housing Authority staff through a planning process which will aid us in formally putting together a plan. A small team of staff from both entities has been formed to further work on the project and we will be reporting to Council in the coming months. The annual Christmas Gift Check distribution for Baraga and Marquette Counties took place on the 24th and 25th respectfully. The distribution totaled approximately $800,000 which is going directly back into the local economies of surrounding communities through purchases being made by our members. During the distribution we were able to acquire additional information through a short survey for the Supportive Housing Project, collect birthdays, anniversaries and memorials for a Tribal Community Calendar, complete subscriptions for the Tribe’s monthly newsletter, and sign children up for the annual youth Christmas Parties. We are hoping that none of the members who participated felt bombarded with the extra effort. The information gathered will be very useful, and we are very thankful for their time – we do apologize if anyone was inconvenienced. I want to include some statistics relating to jobs created by the Tribe in this month’s report. Over the past three years, the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community, through its enterprises, governmental operations and chartered entities, has created over 100 new jobs. That total doesn’t include the many jobs created or sustained through many projects funded by the Tribe through Tribal and grant funds and awarded to local businesses. The Tribe has been and continues to be an integral part of reviving the local and regional economy. The upcoming projects and business opportunities under consideration will further work toward creating and sustaining needed jobs. As always if anyone has questions, concerns or issues the CEO’s office can assist with, please don’t hesitate to stop by, e-mail or call. Miigwetch, Larry J. Denomie III, CEO NOTICE: To all Tribal Seniors 55-years of age and older, and permanently physically handicapped persons: SNOW PLOWING REQUIREMENTS 1. Keweenaw Bay Tribal member; 2. Head of household; 3. Reside on reservation (Baraga Co.); 4. Address and phone number; 5. Proof of age and/or PERMANENT physical disability; 6. Sign up at the front desk at the Tribal Center with proof of each item listed above or mail information to: Tribal Maintenance Department, 16429 Bear Town Road, Baraga, MI 49908. Are you missing your Giikendaam Chiwiikwegamag in the mail? • • You may still request being added to the updated mailing list by contacting the Enrollment Office at 906-353-6623, ext. 4113, or by e-mail to one of the following - dianas@kbicnsn.gov, jennifer@kbic-nsn.gov, or jeanne@kbic-nsn.gov and state that you wish to continue to receive the Tribal newsletter by mail, please spell your name and give your mailing address. Or drop a note to: KBIC Newsletter Mailing List, Attn: Enrollment Office, 16429 Bear Town Road, Baraga , MI 49908 (11) Ashi bezhig Newsletter editor designed ad January 2010 Calendars Events Jan. 1 — Tribal Gov’t offices closed, New Years Day Jan. 9 — Regular Saturday Council Meeting, 10 a.m. Jan. 18 — Tribal Gov’t offices closed, Martin Luther King, Jr. Day ~ submitted by newsletter editor Events occurring throughout KBIC are welcome to be listed on the Calendar of Events. Contact newsletter@kbic.nsn.gov to list your events. Some events are more detailed FYI within the newsletter. For up-to-date 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. W.H.I.P.P. continued: for the times). Remember that the Walk & Talk Program is in progress until April. The OCC gym is available for walking from 10:30 am—1:30 pm each day with prizes every ten times you walk. Contact Heather or Kathy at the Donald A. LaPointe Health & Human Services from more information. Also January is National Blood Donor Month. Blood is traditionally in short supply during the winter months due to the holidays, travel schedules, inclement weather and illness. Every day in our country, approximately 39,000 units of blood are required in hospitals and emergency treatment facilities for patients with cancer and other diseases, for organ transplant recipients, and to help save the lives of accident victims. Be watching for the next blood donor drive in our community and we encourage you to donate. Thank you to all who donate throughout the year, every year to save lives. A very Happy, Healthy, New Year to all! (12) Ashi Niizh ~ submitted by Susan LaFernier Permit No. 5 Calumet, MI PAID Keweenaw Bay Indian Community 16429 Bear Town Rd-Baraga, Mi 49908-9210 U.S Postage PRESORTED STD --- Source: Frix Law Library, https://www.frixlaw.com/law-library/documents/tribal%3Akeweenaw_bay%3Ae450c430379f8519. Public record. Not legal advice.