# All You Need To Know About The Keweenaw Bay Indian Community (2009) > Briefs, arguments, decisions, and more. URL: https://www.frixlaw.com/law-library/documents/tribal%3Akeweenaw_bay%3Aeeb13f86ac316e62 ## Record - **Collection:** Tribal code - **Document type:** Tribal code ## Text GIIKENDAAM CHIWIIKWEGAMAG All You Need To Know About The Keweenaw Bay Indian Community Manoominike Giizis - Rice Making Moon - September 2009 Issue 63 Tribal Council Members: 31st Annual Keweenaw Bay Maawanji’iding Warren C. Swartz, Jr., President The 31st Annual Keweenaw Bay Indian Community Maawanji’iding was held July 24-26, 2009, at the Ojibwa Powwow Campgrounds in Baraga, Michigan. This year’s theme was “We Are All Related, it’s time to come together.” With 443 registered dancers and 14 registered drums, approximately 3,500 participants and spectators enjoyed a delightful weekend of song and dancing. Tribal President, Warren Chris Swartz, Jr., gave the welcome following Friday evening’s grand entry. The Powwow committee honored the following four elders this year, Shirley McKasy, Lena Kuopus, James Welsh and Tom Chosa, Sr. Sixteen-yearold Jade Evelyn Chaudier was crowned Friday evening as Keweenaw Bay’s Royalty for the 2009 term. Jade is the daughter of Aimee Emery and Durwyn Chaudier of Baraga. Jade was one of three candidates eligible for this year’s crown. Little Otter, Minnesota Ojibwa, honored Sixteen-year-old Jade Evelyn Chaudier was crowned Friday evening, July 24th, as Keweenaw Bay’s Royalty for the 2009 the Community as host drum along with term. Smokey Town, Wisconsin Menominee, as co-host drum. The Community was also honored by: Donald Chosa, Sr. (Keweenaw Bay Ojibwa) as Head Veteran Dancer, Vince Bender (Lac du Flambeau Ojibwa) as Head Male Dancer, Lori Muhlig (Keweenaw Bay Ojibwa) as Head Female Dancer, Leon Chosa (Keweenaw Bay Ojibwa) as Head Youth Male Dancer, Tiana Drift (Keweenaw Bay Ojibwa) as Head Youth Female Dancer. Ted Holappa (Keweenaw Bay Ojibwa) and Wabino Awonohopay served as emcees, Stanley Spruce (Keweenaw Bay Ojibwa) as Arena Director, Robert Rajacic (Keweenaw Bay Ojibwa) as Assistant Arena Director, George Gauthier (Keweenaw Bay Ojibwa) as Specials Arena Honored elders—(left to right) Shirley McKasy, Lena Kuopus, Director, and Donald Stolp (Ojibwa KeJames Welsh and Tom Chosa, Sr. weenaw Bay) as Head Firekeeper. Cultural 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: August 15, 2009, Tribal Council meeting 31st Annual Keweenaw Bay Maawanji’iding Protect the Earth 2009 Even Start Literacy Grant KBIC Weed & Seed and KBIC Tribal Police crime prevention efforts Child Identification Offered at Kids’ Day August DHHS Superior Spirit Award Winner • Aabinoojiiyens • New Employees • Deepest Sympathy teachings were delivered by Paul Halverson (Keweenaw Bay Ojibwa). Ten-year-old Jerome Muson of Keshena, Wisconsin, won the junior fry bread championship; and Levi Rosebear of Minneapolis, Minnesota, won the adult division fry bread championship. Two-step championship winners for the youth division were Megan Tucker (Watton) and Raistlin Awonohopay (Baraga) whose team name was Team 2 Cute, and in the adult division winner were Roseann and Jerome Sanapad (Appleton, WI) whose team name was Newberry Stompers. Saturday events included a drum competition: 1st place went to Smokey Town, 2nd place went to Woodland, and 3rd place went to Ditabisin. The hand drum competition was also held with 1st place going to MLB drum, 2nd place went to Little Otter, and 3rd place went to Pipe Stone. The family of Lester Drift held a Lester Drift Memorial Men’s Traditional Dance Competition with the following results: 1st place—Assinis Larson, 2nd place—Lawrence Williams, 3rd place—Vincent Bender. A pink shawl presentation was held during Sunday’s events. Honored Elder Biographies: Shirley McKasy—Shirley was born April 4, 1933, and is 76-years-old. She has been married to Tony McKasy Continued on page six. (1) Bezhig August 15, 2009 — Tribal Council Meeting The Tribal Council held their regularly scheduled Saturday Tribal Council meeting on August 15, 2009, at the Ojibwa Senior Citizens Center. Warren C. Swartz, Jr. presided over the meeting with Susan LaFernier, Toni Minton, William E. Emery, Jennifer Misegan, Jerry Lee Curtis, Fred Dakota, 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 July 2009, by President Warren C. Swartz, Jr., (month of June 2009, as it was unavailable at last month’s meeting, see page three.), Vice President Susan LaFernier (see page eight), Secretary Toni Minton (see page ten), and CEO Larry Denomie (see page nine). President Swartz indicated that he’d prepare a report for July in conjunction with his August report for the September 2009 meeting. Debbie Parrish, Tribal College President, gave an update on the accreditation process. The next step in this chain of events will be a Review Committee meeting held in Chicago in September, and a Full Board meeting in October. OCC President Parrish and Treneice Marshall plan on attending the Review Hearing meeting. Debbie Parrish informed the Tribal Council that the College has applied for a grant to add on to the College. This addition will house a Community Computer Lab which will allow the Community access to computers and the internet, and will also allow funding for broadband connectivity. Council passed Department Head Reports for June 2009, prior to moving into closed session with KBIC members present for the FY2008 Financial Report given by Jennifer Misegan. Larry Denomie, CEO, was also on the agenda for a closed session matter. speeches were given while Summer Cloud hosted the drum. Fran Van Zile from Mole Lake led a “gathering of the waters” from significant lakes, rivers, and streams that were then poured on the roots of a tree at the base of Eagle Rock. Speakers representing KBIC were Tribal Vice-President, Susan LaFernier, and Yale grad student, Jessica Koski. LaFernier spoke at the spot which she said there was “no greater place for us to appreciate, remember, and honor our great lakes and rivers, our sacred Migizi Waasin, and our ancestors.” LaFernier said that “taking care of our earth and allowing it to take care of itself is not just a responsibility, it is a privilege bestowed upon all of us.” She went on to speak of the ceded territory that was originally part of a gift of land “freely given [to the Ojibwe] by the Great Spirit,” in which “no person had any right to control such a gift,” and where tribes “continue to hunt, fish, and gather…and that is still our destiny today.” She asked that we continue to “pray that our beautiful water and land remain free of contamination” and told us that “people everywhere can save the earth!” Brumleve, the KBIC’s mining specialist, has “just really lit a passion inside me.” She is already proving herself to be a hard-working, active, ogichidaakwe. KBIC Tribal member, Jessica Koski, a Yale grad student, spoke from the heart on behalf of her Tribe’s responsibility and desire to protect the mother earth. Photo credit—Gabriel Caplett. * Please join us next year in helping to make Protect the Earth even stronger. And please do what you can so that we can all continue to experience mino-bimaadiziiwin (living the good life) in this beautiful water-rich area. Miigwetch. Protect the Earth 2009 by Barb Bradley The Protect the Earth Great Lakes Community Gathering was held on August 1-2, 2009. Protect the Earth began in Wisconsin, in 1986, (on the Mole Lake Reservation), when northern Wisconsin was being considered as the site for a nuclear waste dump. In 1987, the focus of Protect the Earth changed, due to Kennecott’s mine proposal in Ladysmith and Exxon’s proposed Crandon Mine project. To this day, metallic sulfide – and now uranium – mining has been given prominent attention. For the past two years, Wisconsin has lent Michigan the responsibility of hosting Protect the Earth. The late Roscoe Churchill (nicknamed “Grandfather of WI’s sulfide mining opposition”) described these gatherings as an event “where Natives and non-Natives hook up for the earth and for each other.” This year nearly 200 people gathered from around the Great Lakes to strengthen alliances, strategize, rekindle old friendships and make new ones, while honoring Mother Earth. A large number of ogichidaag (veterans of foreign mining company wars) came from Wisconsin to speak and just to be amongst other (old and new) earth protectors. Many Great Lakes First Nations were represented – including the Little River Band of Ottawa Indians, Lac du Flambeau, Keweenaw Bay Indian Community, Mole Lake Sokaogon Chippewa, Lac Vieux Desert, and Wikwemikong Reserve, Manitoulin Island. The first day’s activities (at Northern Michigan University) included workshops, music, hoop dancing, and movies. The second day took place on the Yellow Dog Plains with a walk from the Yellow Dog River to Eagle Rock. At Eagle Rock, a pipe ceremony was held and (2) Niizh Continued next column. Vice President Susan LaFernier spoke on behalf of KBIC at Protect the Earth. Photo credit—Lisa Denomie. Introducing herself at Eagle Rock, Jessica Koski said that she was born in L’Anse and grew up in Wisconsin, but came back to “our wonderful tribal college.” During her college years [she] “reunited with my Ojibwe tribe” and “learned about our beautiful tribal culture and our values for the land.” Through her college career, Jessica has worked on research projects and given presentations on two of the biggest issues facing her tribal community – the protection of the land and water and protection of sacred sites in particular, Eagle Rock - from international mining interests. She is concerned not only with the environmental impacts, but the cultural impacts that metallic sulfide mining would have on the Anishinaabeg. Koski spoke of the Anishinaabe prophecy of how we will be facing two roads, “either the road to technology and progress or the road to spirituality.” She told us, “I think we’re really faced with that question…” She said that the sacred sites of many tribes [in this country and around the world] are being threatened by outside interests that want to use this sacred land for recreation, mining, and logging. Her speech became an education to those who may not have realized that Native Americans do not have equal protection to practice their religions under the U.S. Constitution. “I think it is difficult for people to understand because religion and culture and land are all interconnected.” Koski said that speaking with members of her community about the mining issue, with special help from Susan LaFernier and Chuck Walk from the Yellow Dog River to Eagle Rock. Photo credit—Lisa Denomie. U.S. DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION ANNOUNCES EVEN START FAMILY LITERACY PROGRAM 2009 GRANTS FOR INDIAN TRIBES AND TRIBAL ORGANIZATIONS The Department is pleased to announce the awarding of $774,984 in grants for the FY 2009 Even Start Family Literacy Program Grants for Federally Recognized Indian Tribes and Tribal Organizations. Expert peer reviewers reviewed applications submitted by the closing date of May 4, 2009. The Department made a total of four awards to the following: Keweenaw Bay Indian Community (Michigan); Salt River PimaMaricopa Community Schools (Arizona); San Pasqual Band of Kumeyaay Indians (California); and Local Indians for Education, Inc. (California). To view abstracts for the four programs visit http://www.ed.gov/programs/evenstartindian/ awards.html An Open House is planned for October 2009. Watch for flyers. Back to School Some tips for the Coming Flu Season If you’re a parent, you need to add one more item to that back-to-school checklist: what to do if someone in your family gets the flu. This fall—as every fall—we not only have to plan for a new version of seasonal influenza, but in addition, another potentially serious strain, the 2009 H1N1 virus. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) continue to report higher than normal levels of flu-like illness and actual H1N1 outbreaks in some parts of the country. That’s very unusual at this time of year. Similar to seasonal flu, with H1N1 you’ll get a fever, cough, sore throat, stuffy nose, achiness, headache, chills and fatigue. Sometimes H1N1 causes diarrhea and vomiting. Just like seasonal flu, it can be severe and potentially deadly. H1N1 can be dangerous for a person with an underlying medical condition—such as asthma or diabetes—or pregnancy. So far, it’s been most contagious among children and young adults aged six months to 24 years. Health care workers, emergency responders, and people caring for infants should be on guard. Scientists believe this virus could worsen with the arrival of school. But if we prepare for the virus now, it does not have to happen. Some of these precautions are simple and personal. • Make it a routine to wash your hands often with soap and water. • Cough into your elbow or into a tissue, not in your hands. • Stay home if you’re sick, and start planning now in the event that one of your kids gets the flu. Ask yourself these questions: If you work, have you made arrangements for child care? Have you talked with your employer about what to do in case you need to be out? Get the vaccine when it’s available. No one knows what the impact of the fall flu season will be until we’re in the middle of it. But how severe the flu becomes this fall will depend on how seriously each of us takes action to reduce the risk now. If you want more information, please visit www.cdc.gov or www.michigan.gov/flu . The sites provide guidance to prepare for, prevent, and respond to an outbreak. The KBIC Health Department will have plenty of vaccine when it becomes available. Orders have been placed in August. Please watch for further newsletter announcements, Meet Kayah Marie Loonsfoot, born 06/02/09, to Tiara Drift and Gavin Loonsfoot. Kayah weighed 7 lbs. 11 ozs. and was 19 ½ inches long at birth. PRESIDENT’S REPORT MONTH OFJUNE 2009. • • • • • • • FOR THE Activities of the Office of the President for the month of June 2009. At the beginning of the month, I approved sending Council member Dakota to Wisconsin, to research a possible economic development opportunity. Councilmember Dakota had discussions with Tribal leaders of the Boise Forte and Fond du Lac Band of Indians. Council member Dakota has reported to Council on this matter. I worked with Powwow Committee Chairman, Tracy Emery, and the Personnel Officer, Pauline Spruce, to produce a list of workers needed for the powwow. A number of positions were identified and were able to be filled to help in this successful event. We approved Tribal Construction to help out a Tribal member with their sewer/ septic system. I have been in contact with representatives of M3 Insurance Company trying to resolve issues regarding Tribal Construction’s bonding abilities. This is an ongoing issue and I will continue to monitor to see when there is an opportunity for TCC to get needed bond. I wrote thank you letters to the agencies that helped during the forest fire near Pinery Lakes. I called our legislative leaders and asked them to become an original co-sponsor of the Indian Health Care Improvement Act (IHCIA). This message included: • Health Care Reform is the top priority for Congress but Indian Country must not be forgotten. • The IHCIA is Indian Country’s Health Bill and must be passed this year. • Shortly after the call to action, the House of Representatives introduced the IHCIA Reauthorization Bill as HR 2708, introduced by Congressman Frank Pallone, Chairman of the House Energy and Commerce Health Subcommittee, with 16 original cosponsors. • The bill’s substance results from the diligent work of the Tribal National Steering Committee, with Tribal Leader representation from all 12 areas with support from National Tribal organizations, Area Indian Health • • • • • • • • • • Boards and Tribal advocates around the nation including members of the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community. I attended a meeting in Sault Ste. Marie for the Michigan United Tribes. • We met and discussed a number of issues including the Employee Free Choice Act, healthcare reform, tuition waiver protocol, Census 2010, and we heard a presentation from Sally Kniffen. She talked about the impacts of mercury on Great Lakes fish. I attended the Annual Tribal State Summit held in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan. One of the purposes of the meeting was to have Tribes sign the Climate Accord. KBIC chose not to sign the Accord at this time. I attended a Gaming Commission meeting on June 23, 2009. We are looking into the feasibility of using wind generated energy as a supplemental source of power for the hatchery. I sent out letters of support for Matthew Fletcher, a Native American Indian, to serve on the Federal Bench. I sent letters of support for the Drug Court to Senators Levin and Stabenow. We have received authorization to bid from Indian Health Service on the Old US 41 Water Project. This is good news, and hopefully, customers will have water in the near future. I continue to work with Indian Health Service regarding the Knipp site in Zeba. Currently Tribal Construction is determining the evaluation of the bedrock at the site. Work should be completed by the end of July. I’ll continue to monitor the Internal Revenue Service. They would like to tax health care benefits that Tribes provide their members. I’m concerned since we are just trying to help out our Tribal members by supplementing inadequate Federal Health Care and other services. Our Tribal members should not be taxed for supplementing inadequate Federal Health Care. The Community received a decision in the Sixth Circuit Court in the Sale Tax Case. The Court affirmed in part, vacated in part, and remanded the case back to the Federal District Court for further consideration. Respectfully submitted, Warren Chris Swartz, Jr. CHILD IDENTIFICATION OFFERED AT KIDS DAY PROGRAM Saturday, August 15, 2009, Kid’s Day was held at the Baraga Marina with participating agencies Michigan State Police, Baraga County Sheriff Department, Keweenaw Bay Tribal Police and Conservation Departments, and the KBIC Weed and Seed Program. Besides fun and food, this year a free child identification Chris Gerard, KBIC Weed program was offered and Seed Director, assists where each child reCooper Parker with the fin- ceived a dental imgerprinting program. pression as well as a CD containing a photo, video, digital fingerprints and their vital information. The Michigan Masonic Child ID Program provides the family with everything needed for the Amber Alert System. Cindy Curtis with her young charges, back row—(left to right), Dana Thierry, Lexi ChosaSimmons, front row—Shantell Simmons, Keyshia Supanich. Baby on lap—Quintan Supanich. Below—Dana Thierry chooses a face painting blue heart from Kid’s Day staff, Margo Bier. (3) Niswi The Education Department is pleased to announce the following three KBIC college graduates for the Summer 09 semester of the 2008-09 academic year: • Kristin Mantila Brown, Western Michigan University, Business Administration/ Management, M.B.A. • Andrea Leonard, Northern Michigan University, Sports Science, B.S. • Paul Pouttu, Michigan Technological University, Civil Engineering/Business, B.S. Congratulations to our graduates. We are very proud of you and your accomplishments! NOTICE: The KBIC Council is comprising a list of Keweenaw Bay Tribal Members who are currently serving in the armed forces and have been deployed. Please provide names and addresses to the Enrollment Office at (906) 353-6623, ext. 4113 or 4111 or e-mail Jennifer@kbic-nsn.gov. The Keweenaw Bay Indian Community placed third in the Tribe to Tribe Walking Challenge, sponsored by Grand Traverse. Over the time frame of May 19, 2009 July 16, 2009, KBIC had 16 people complete the challenge with a total average of 564,673 steps per individual. 3rd much of his time with his friends and family. He had a passion for caring and helping others. He loved telling stories and playing practical jokes. Being with his children was what he cherished and enjoyed most in life. Michael is survived and greatly missed by two wonderful daughters Cassandra Marcotte of Chicago, IL, and Genevieve Corbett of Escanaba, MI; three sisters Patsy Tuschen of Chicago, Shirley Corbett of Chicago, and Clara Corbett of Bark River, MI; nieces and nephews, Eddy Gray of Baraga, Steve Gray of Chicago, Christopher Corbett of California, Andrea Corbett of Chicago, and Garrett Corbett of Chicago; four grandkids, Aviana Metzger of Escanaba, Adrienne, Joshua, and Jason Marcotte of Chicago; many aunts, uncles, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents; brother James Corbett and loving son Michael Thunder Corbett. A funeral service was held on Wednesday, July 29, 2009, at the Ojibwa Senior Center, Traditional Ceremonial Room. The Jacobson Funeral Home of L’Anse assisted the family. Friends may sign Mike’s guest book or send condolences at www.jacobsonfuneralhome.com. Anita Lynn White May 6, 1971—July 25, 2009 Anita Lynn White, age 38, of Hancock and formerly of L'Anse passed away suddenly Saturday, July 25, 2009, in Hancock. She was born in Bismarck, North Dakota, on May 6, 1971, the daughter of Edward T. and Bernadette (Perreault) White. Anita attended school in Baraga. She was a member of Blessed Kateri Church and the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community. Anita enjoyed playing on the computer, visiting and traveling. She loved going to the PowWow and enjoyed walking and spending time with her niece. Anita is survived by her parents Edward and Bernadette White of L'Anse, brother, Tim White of L'Anse, sisters, Kathy White of Baraga, and Juanita White of Ann Arbor, three aunts, niece Brenda Malmgren, and nephew Otis Malmgren both of Baraga. Graveside services for Anita were held on Friday, July 31, 2009, at Assinins Cemetery with Father John Longbucco officiating. Louella Mae Wood June 26, 1940—August 4, 2009 Our Deepest Sympathy Patrick Michael Corbett March 17, 1951—July 25, 2009 Patrick “Mike” Corbett, age 58, of Covington, MI, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, July 25, 2009, at Marquette General Hospital. He was born March 17, 1951, in Chicago, IL, son of Francis and Genevieve (Loonsfoot) Corbett. Michael moved from Chicago to Baraga in 1980. He then began his career as a Child Protective Service Worker for the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community. He enjoyed his job very much and helped many people in his years working there. Eventually he moved to Escanaba, MI, and then cofounded and directed the Three Fires Halfway House in Hannahville, MI. Mike worked there for many years; he then took time off to continue his education at the Northern Michigan University and Lake Superior State University in Sault Ste. Marie, MI. He happily became a wonderful and loving father to three wonderful children, Cassandra Marcotte, the late Michael Thunder Corbett, and Genevieve Corbett. Mike was a very well known and greatly respected member of the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community. He was very kind, loving, caring, and generous man. A wonderful father, friend, son, brother, uncle and grandfather. He was a proud respectful and traditional Native American man. He enjoyed nature, traveling to spiritual gatherings, Native American singing and dancing, and also spending (4) Niiwin Louel la Mae Wood, age 69 of L’Anse, MI, walked on following a lengthy illness on Tuesday, August 4, 2009, at her home with her family by her side. She was born on June 26, 1940, in L’Anse, MI, a daughter to the late Archie and Margaret (Shelifoe) Knapp. Louella grew up in L’Anse. She married Richard B. Wood in April 1962, in Indiana. They lived all over the Midwest states until retirement when they moved back to L’Anse in 1992. She worked for five years at the Lawrence School System in Lawrence, MI, while her children were growing up. Louella was a member of the United Methodist Church in Zeba, Eastern Star, Skanee Wilderness Riders, and Ojibwa Senior Citizens. She loved spending time with her family, four-wheeling, and playing computer games. Surviving are her sons Richard Wood of L’Anse, James Wood of Lawton, MI; daughter Cindy Knapp of L’Anse; former daughter-inlaws Linda Wood and Tina Owens both of L’Anse; sisters Nancy Haataja of L’Anse, Margaret Rowloff of Sidnaw, Brenda McKittrick of Baraga, and Mary (George) Geroux of Baraga; grandchildren, Heather (Aaron Paquet), Landis, Blaine, Michelle, Jessica, Jimmy, and Taylor Wood, Theresa Sirrine, Joseph, Jason, Jacob, John, and Joshua McMahan; great grandchildren, numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins. Preceding her in death are her parents; husband Richard B. Wood in 1994; daughter, Ruthie Knapp; brothers, Archie Jr., William, John, Wallace, and Eugene Knapp. A funeral service was held on Saturday, August 8, 2009, at the United Methodist Church in Zeba, with Rev. John Henry officiating. The Jacobson Funeral Home of L’Anse assisted the family. Friends may sign Louella’s guest book or send condolences at www.jacobsonfuneralhome.com. We would like to thank everyone who helped with the luncheon, sent flowers or donations. Everything is greatly appreciated. Chi Miigwetch. ~ The family of Louella Wood. Nellie C. LeMaire August 2, 1910—August 9, 2009 Nellie C. LeMaire, age 99, of Marquette, walked on into eternal life Sunday morning, August 9, 2009, at home. Nellie was born August 2, 1910, in Baraga, a daughter of August and Margaret (Forcia) Madosh. She was raised in Baraga and moved to Marquette with her family as a young girl. In Marquette, she helped care for her younger siblings and this was to set the tone for her future years when she was a caregiver to her husband, other family members, and friends. At age 17, Nellie was employed for a time as a seamstress, sewing for government projects. Following her marriage to Henry LeMaire, Nellie worked at the former Holy Family Orphanage as a housekeeper for many years. Nellie lived during a time when Native American traditions and culture were suppressed. She took great pride in her Native American Indian heritage and sought to learn more about it. Later in life, she would learn the traditions and customs and pass them on to her relatives and friends, thus becoming an Anishinaabe culture-bearer. In 1954, St. Christopher Parish was formally established in Trowbridge Park by the Catholic Diocese of Marquette. The first church was situated where the Bonanza Family Restaurant now stands. Nellie was among the first charter members who worked vigorously to support the new church and make provisions for construction of a larger facility. Countless dinners, bazaars, rummage sales, and promotions were held to support the church and Nellie was at the helm of most of them. For many years she was president of the altar society and coordinated dinners, funeral luncheons, bazaars, receptions, pasty sales, and assisted with fish bakes. She and her ladies could always be depended upon for excellent service. The church would not be where it is today were it not for the efforts and sacrifices of early members like Nellie. Today, Leonard Bur and Hazel Hulverson remain as the last surviving charter members. In addition to her membership at St. Christopher Church and its altar society, Nellie was a member of the Kateri Tekakwitha Circle, and the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community. Since 1963, Nellie had been a member of the St. Anthony of Padua Fraternity of the Secular Franciscan Order. She enjoyed craftwork and belonged to the Knit Wits, a group at church composed of Sr. Gloria Schultz, Cindy Fassbender, Verna Bur, Estelle Brisson, Dorothy Lainhart, and Teresa Feltner who met to knit and crochet items for church fund raisers. After the second meeting, the group escalated into doing whatever needed to be done for the church from decorating, cleaning, organizing, etc. A loved and well respected elder of her community, Nellie is survived by greatgrandsons, Robbie (Theresa) Garrow of Channing, Roger (Marge) Garrow of Randville, and Michael Garrow of Sagola; several great great Continued on page five. Continued from page four. and great great great-grandchildren; her niece, Hazel Hulverson of Marquette; numerous nieces and nephews; and her caregiver and special friend, Corrine Britton of Marquette; and many other relatives and friends too numerous to mention. In addition to her parents and husband, Nellie was preceded in death by her sisters, Mary Honcharuk and Genevieve Spruce; and brothers, Jacob Cadotte, Leander, Richard, and Peter Madosh; and many other family and friends. Services were held at St. Christopher Catholic Church on Wednesday, August 12, 2009. The Secular Franciscan Order held a prayer service and Native American Ceremonies with drumming followed. A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated with Rev. Lawrence Gauthier celebrant, with The Most Rev. Alexander K. Sample, bishop of the Diocese of Marquette in attendance. Burial services were held in the Holy Cross Cemetery with Robbie and Roger Garrow, Dave Croschere, George, Leander, and Peter Madosh serving as pallbearers. Memorials may be directed to St. Christopher Catholic Church, 2372 Badger Street, Marquette, MI 49855. The Fassbender Funeral Home assisted the family. KBIC Weed & Seed and KBIC Tribal Police continue youth crime prevention efforts with Tribal Police Athletic League and T.E.A.M. School Liaison Program KBIC Weed & Seed and KBIC Tribal Police in Baraga and Marquette continue their collaborative efforts in youth crime prevention through the Tribal Police Athletic League (TPAL). Tribal Police officers have started the 2009 paintball league and have seen a rise in the number of participants this year. Chris Gerard, KBIC Weed & Seed Coordinator states, “The Tribal Police Athletic League was implemented as part of the Weed & Seed Initiative to promote crime prevention efforts between law enforcement and area youth. It is a goal of ours to lessen the number of criminal incidents involving youth. The Tribal Police Athletic League is one of our programs that has been put into place to help achieve this goal. The Tribal Police Athletic League allows our law enforcement officers to interact with area youth in a positive and fun setting.” The paintball league has proven to be very popular and will continue through the end of summer. The schedule for paintball events is dependent upon the officers work schedule, so there are no set dates. The best way to find out about future paintball event dates is to contact Sgt. Duane Misegan or Sgt. Dale Goodreau at the Tribal Police Department (906) 353-6626. The Tribal Police Athletic League is also starting up in Marquette and will be lead by Officer Anthony Carrick. Contact Officer Carrick for future paintball event dates at (906) 249-0901. KBIC Weed & Seed and the KBIC Tribal Police are excited to continue their working relationship with the Baraga Area Schools during the 2009 school year. Chris Gerard, KBIC Weed & Seed Coordinator states, “Last year we implemented the Gang Resistance Education And Training (GREAT) school liaison program. This year because of familiarity with the program, we decided to send Officer Tyler Larson to the Teaching Educating And Mentoring (T.E.A.M.) officer training at the Michigan State Police Training Academy. Officer Larson will teach the elementary T.E.A.M. curriculum to the fourth and fifth grade students at Baraga Area Schools. It is possible that this program will also be taught in the fourth and fifth grades at L’Anse Area Schools during the 2009 school year.” The T.E.A.M. law enforcement school liaison program can be taught at any of the three levels of education – elementary, middle school or high school. The elementary curriculum teaches students basic safety rules such as bicycle and pedestrian safety, the proper use of 911, fire and gun preContinued bottom next column. CDC Advisors Make Recommendations for Use of Vaccine Against Novel H1N1 The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) met recently to make recommendations for use of vaccine against novel influenza A (H1N1). The committee met to develop recommendations on who should receive vaccine against novel influenza A (H1N1) when it becomes available, and to determine which groups of the population should be prioritized if the vaccine is initially available in extremely limited quantities. The committee recommended the vaccination efforts focus on five key populations. Vaccination efforts are designed to help reduce the impact and spread of novel H1N1. The key populations include those who are at higher risk of disease or complications, those who are likely to come in contact with novel H1N1, and those who could infect young infants. When vaccine is first available, the committee recommended that programs and providers try to vaccinate: • • • • • pregnant women, people who live with or care for children younger than six months of age, health care and emergency services personnel, persons between the ages of six months through 24 years of age, and people from ages 25 through 64 years who are at higher risk for novel H1N1 because of chronic health disorders or compromised immune systems. The groups listed above total approximately 159 million people in the United States. The committee does not expect that there will be a shortage of novel H1N1 vaccine, but availability and demand can be unpredictable. There is some possibility that initially the vaccine will be available in limited quantities. In this setting, the committee recommended that the following groups receive the vaccine before others: • • pregnant women, people who live with or care for children younger than six months of age, • health care and emergency services personnel with direct patient contact, • children six months through four years of age, and • children five through 18 years of age who have chronic medical conditions. The committee recognized the need to assess supply and demand issues at the local level. The committee further recommended that once the demand for vaccine for these prioritized groups has been met at the local level, programs and providers should begin vaccinating everyone from ages 25 through 64 years. Current studies indicate the risk for infection among persons age 65 or older is less than the risk for younger age groups. Therefore, as vaccine supply and demand for vaccine among younger age groups is being met, programs and providers should offer vaccination to people over the age of 65. The committee also stressed that people over the age of 65 receive the seasonal vaccine as soon as it is available. Even if novel H1N1 vaccine is initially only available in limited quantities, supply and availability will continue, so the committee stressed that programs and providers continue to vaccinate unimmunized patients and not keep vaccine in reserve for later administration of the second dose. The novel H1N1 vaccine is not intended to replace the seasonal flu vaccine. It is intended to be used alongside seasonal flu vaccine to protect people. Seasonal flu and novel H1N1 vaccines may be administered on the same day. Mary P. Macqueen, MSA Public Health Emergency Preparedness Coordinator and Manager, Bioterrorism Preparedness and Infrastructure Development Section, Michigan Department of Community Health Office of Public Health Preparedness, 201 Townsend Street Lansing, MI 48913 Office: 517-335-9401 Cell: 517-331-2393 Fax: 517-335-9434 macqueenm@michigan.gov 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. To be added to the mailing list or to correct your mailing address, contact the enrollment office at (906) 353-6623 ext. 4113. Paintball continued: vention and being safe on the internet. Gerard states, “This is a way to form and continue partnerships with schools, parents, communities and law enforcement agencies which help promote safety for all area youth.” The DHHS Superior Spirit Award Winner for August 2009 Zena Huhta is the DHHS Superior Spirit Award Winner for August 2009. Zena was nominated by a patient who stated, “Zena has always been pleasant and very willing to help out with any of my needs. She does this with a pleasant smile and f r i e n d l y tone. When I deal with Zena, I don't ever feel like I am bothering her no matter how small my need or question is." Zena received a beaded lanyard for her name badge, and is able to park in the awardees’ parking spot August 14—Sept 14. Congratulations Zena! (5) Naanan 31st KBIC Maawanji’iding continued: for 20 years. Shirley has three children, Deb, Myron, and a daughter Lynn who has passed on. Shirley has nine grandchildren and eight great grandchildren. Shirley has a college degree in social work. She worked many years at a factory in St. Paul, Minnesota. Shirley is very active with the Ojibwa Senior Citizens and had previously served as their president. She loves gardening, reading, taking daily walks, and she swims several times a week. She also loves knitting, sewing, and after living on a farm for eight years, canning. Lena Kuopus— Lena was born on June 1, 1928, and is 81-years-old. She had previously worked at the Big Bucks Bingo for ten years. Elvera Lantz presents Joe Riley (a talented Lena is very active with the Ojibwa Senior Citiyoung artist) with a gift on behalf of the KBIC Otter Lake, Host Drum zens and a active member of the Zeba MethPowwow Committee. odist Church. Lena loves to read and make quilts. James Welsh—Jimmy was born on February 13, 1939, and is 70-years-old. He is the son of the (late) Herbert and Helene Welsh, and was born and raised in L’Anse, Michigan. Jimmy has worked many years in our community. He was an educator at the New Day Treatment Center, a bus driver and dispatch for the Baraga Public Transit, a welder for Bob Selkey, and he once worked at the Wigwam in Zeba, Michigan. Jim has a degree in small business from Michigan Tech and he also attended school in Oakland, California. His many interests include playing cards, fishing, Team 2 Cute, Youth Diviriding his lawn mower and visiting with his sion, two-step championship many family and friends. Elvera Lantz presents Fry Bread Awards to (left) Jerome Muson of winners—Megan Tucker Tom Chosa, Sr.—Tom was born on April 9, Keshena, Wisconsin, who won the junior championship; and (right) Levi (W atton) and Raistlin 1944, and he is 65-years-old. Tom has four Rosebear of Minneapolis, Minnesota, won the adult division championship. Awonohopay. children and 17 grandchildren. Tom is a four year Navy veteran, and he served in the Vietnam war. Tom worked for the BIA for sixteen years. He has a degree in Forestry from Michigan Tech. Most recently, Tom worked for the Ojibwa Builders under their senior program. Tom loves hunting, fishing, and music. He also loves to read. His special hobby is making traditional bows. Trash Talk: 2009 Spring Cleanup Collects 45 Tons of Waste Each year, KBIC holds Spring Cleanup, a free waste collection event as a way to provide a convenient disposal service and to reduce the cost of waste disposal to enrolled tribal members. This service is also provided in hopes of preventing some open dumping of waste which helps protect the environment. This annual event, sponsored by the KBIC Tribal Council and KBIC Natural Resources Department, collects bulky waste, such as furniture, toys, and bagged trash, from Tribal households. Prior to 2008, KBIC cosponsored the Village of Baraga Spring Cleanup, whereby residents hauled their waste to a designated drop-off site. Since then, we have coordinated our own Spring Cleanup offering curbside collection which has proved to be very successful. This year, Spring Cleanup successfully collected and properly disposed of approximately 45 tons of waste from Tribal households within the L’Anse Reservation, including the Villages of Baraga and L’Anse. The Natural Resources Department coordinated the event, and Tribal Construction Company provided waste collection and hauling. The Natural Resources Department also conducted visual waste volume and characterization in order to help determine the type of wastes present in the KBIC waste stream. Knowing what type of waste is in the waste stream helps us identify recycling and reduction opportunities. Recycling could help lower future disposal costs and keep waste out of landfills. Metal was the highest waste type at 27% followed by plastics at 19%. The results are presented below: (6) Ningodwaaswi Lori Muhlig (Keweenaw Bay 0jibwa), Head Female Dancer, and Vince Bender (Lac du Flambeau Ojibwa), Head Male Dancer. Women’s Traditional Tiana Drift (Keweenaw Bay 0jibwa), Head Youth Female Dancer, and Leon Chosa (Lac du Flambeau Ojibwa), Head Youth Male Dancer. Men’s Traditional Newberry Stompers, Adult Division, two-step championship winners—Roseann and Jerome Sanapad (Appleton). Donald Chosa, Sr. (Keweenaw Bay Ojibwa), Head Veteran Dancer. We also compared the waste volume with previous Spring Cleanup waste volumes. The waste volume data shows that the bulky waste collected from tribal households has decreased over time. The annual waste volumes are presented in table on page eleven. Our Spring Cleanup once again proved to be a successful event, resulting in proper waste management, and it appears to be reducing the overall annual KBIC waste stream. If you have questions or comments, please call us at the Natural Resource Department (524-5757). Continued page eleven. KEWEENAW BAY INDIAN COMMUNITY OFFICE OF CHILD SUPPORT SERVICES Dr. Dennis Beaufait is the new Clinical Psychologist for KBIC Health & Human Services program. As to an introduction to the Community, Dr. Dennis Beaufait states, “I am relocating to the community from the mountains of Colorado where I have been working as a Clinical Psychologist for the Prouder Valley Hospital. I graduated with my Doctoral Degree from Western Michigan University in Kalamazoo, in 1992. I have been practicing Psychology since 1976, in a variety of settings in both Michigan and in the Southwest (Arizona & Colorado). I have specialized in working with individuals who have relationship problems and other adjustment issues (i.e., depression/anxiety, grief/loss, interpersonal/family conflict, men's issues, marriage problems, school/academic problems, and other wellness issues). I like working with all age groups -- I offer individual, couple, and family counseling. I am especially interested in spiritual issues and in American Indian Culture. I ‘love’ the outdoors -- I enjoy hiking in the mountains and the woodlands in the summer and x-country skiing and snowshoeing in the winter. I enjoy music, art, and dancing too! I am looking forward to working with Keweenaw Bay Indian Community and to be of help when people are struggling with various problems in living. I can be reached by calling the Department of Health and Human Services @ 906/353-8666, ext. 4535 to set up an appointment— Looking forward to meeting you." Dr. Dennis M. Beaufait Licensed Clinical Psychologist Licensed Professional Counselor New Employees continues on page eight. 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 DARE TO DREAM Enroll Today! — Call 353-8161 755 Michigan Avenue, Baraga (7) Niizhwaaswi New employees continued. Tyler Larson, a KBIC member, has recently been hired as the newest member of the KBIC Tribal Police Department. Tyler recently served the Community as the KBIC Youth Director after graduating from Northern Michigan University with a Bachelors of Science in Criminal Justice. While in Honorable Violet M. Friisvall Ayres, Associate college, T y l e r Judge, presents the Oath of Office to newly hired played football for KBIC Tribal Police Officer Tyler Larson. NMU and served on the Student Athletic Advisory Committee. Tyler states, “Criminal Justice is something that has always interested me and to be able to take advantage of this opportunity is very exciting. I hope that I can offer to the KBTPD everything that is expected from me and more.” Welcome aboard, Officer Larson. VICE-PRESIDENT’S REPORT FOR THE MONTH OFJULY 2009. Activities Reported by the Vice President Susan LaFernier for the month of July 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 will continue to emphasize that every month is “Energy Awareness Month” and our theme for the year will be a “Commit to Conserve” Campaign. There are simple, everyday measures we can do to reduce air pollution, conserve water reduce/reuse/recycle/re-buy materials, and prevent pollution in general. All of this information is available on the EPA.gov and energy.gov websites. On July 6, 2009, I attended the sentencing of Robert Genschow in the U.S. District Court in Marquette for the theft and unlawful cutting of trees in Ontonagon. On July 8, 2009, a very important meeting was held with various persons from the BIA, the Bureau of Land Management, and Keweenaw Bay in regards to acquiring federal land on Manitou Island. We are very interested in protecting the natural and cultural resources on these public lands. We are in the process of reviewing options in acquiring this property. Thank you to everyone who attended, sponsored, and gave gifts to the Fourth Annual Denise Marth Fun Run on July 11, 2009. The Baraga County Community Foundation looks forward to next year’s run as we remember and honor her life passion and philosophy for everyone to have a better life and better heath. It is also a way to help raise money for the Foundation’s operations and programs, and the Tribe’s donation is and was greatly appreciated. On July 22, 2009, I participated on our “Keep It In The U.P.” radio show with Gabriel Caplett and Jack Parker, Rock Mechanics/ Mining expert who is world renown and has worked on many mines around the world and in the U.P. He talked about the rock mechanics issues and his concerns with the proposed mine on the Yellow Dog Plains. We also gave information regarding the 2nd “Protect The Earth” Great Lakes Community Gathering that was held on August 1-2, 2009, at NMU and at Eagle Rock. (More information will be in the August report). It was another wonderful 31st Powwow this year, and congratulations to our honored elders: my Aunt Lena Kuopus, Shirley McKasy, Tom Chosa, Sr., and James Welsh. On July 31, 2009, I participated on a conference call with John Baker and Todd Warner (8) Ishwaaswi Cheryne (LaPointe) Clements — Youth Director. Cheryne’s introduction states, “I am a KBIC member and have recently moved back to the area after living in Marquette for the last four years. I attended Northern Michigan University and received my Bachelor's Degree in Management of Health and Fitness. I am very excited to have been hired as the Youth Director for the KBIC. I hope I can provide the opportunity for the youth to have fun and to also have a positive impact in their success as they grow. In my spare time I enjoy being with my family and working out.” regarding developing a Great Lakes multi-year Restoration Action Plan that is part of President Obama’s initiative. Meetings have been held at various sites in Michigan and other states. The President’s 2010 budget proposes $475 million for the U.S. EPA to lead the initiative which will target the most significant environment challenges in the Great Lakes Basin with the strategy to restore and protect the Great Lakes. The five major focus areas are: toxic substances and areas of concern, invasive species, near shore health and nonpoint source pollution, habitat and wildlife protection and restoration, and accountability, monitoring, evaluation, communication, and partnerships. “It is our responsibility—Tribes, residents, municipalities, businesses, and visitors to protect and restore the quality of Lake Superior’s (and all of our lakes) waters, land, and wildlife. The lakes have always been and always will be important to the quality of our lives.” Gene Emery and I toured our new Walleye Ponds on July 31, 2009, in L’Anse with Todd Warner and Gene Mensch. I must say they are a work of art, and our Natural Resources Department staff has done a wonderful job. The ponds are very unique. We saw where the water comes from, where it goes, and how they capture the walleye to transplant them. We are planning to map the Pinery Cemetery the week of September 21, 2009. We are asking if anyone has information regarding forgotten graves and information on graves that do not have identification to please call me or Summer Cohen if you can help. You will also see landscape changes because of the May 20, 2009, fire that consumed 685 acres around the Pinery Lakes area and Linden Creek. It is still not know how many trees will be lost. The results of the wellness interest survey that was taken at the employee meeting on June 24, 2009, have been compiled and a condensed version of the results and the winners of the survey will be included in the employee’s paychecks next week. We will also be having another task force meeting to discuss the next steps and recommendations now that the survey has been completed. It is never too late to encourage positive lifestyle changes that will help us live longer, healthier, happier lives. We also still have not yet been informed of a decision from the administrative hearing officer in our contested case hearing regarding the mining permits for the Yellow Dog Plains. A proposed decision on the Humboldt Mill application has also been delayed a third time until late Summer or Fall because we understand more information was required and is being reviewed by the DEQ. Under Kennecott’s reuse proposal, the Humboldt Mill would process 1,500 tons of ore per day from the Eagle Mine. 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, 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.” Remember to continue to pray for and honor all of our veterans and service men and women and their families. Also remember those who are ill, have lost loved ones (there have been many in the last few weeks) and for our economy struggles. Let us be thankful for our beautiful area and the warm Summer days… and have a safe Labor Day weekend. Remember the Drug Tip Line number is 353DRUG or 353-3784. Miigwetch. Susan LaFernier, Vice President EDUCATION INCENTIVE PROGRAM The Keweenaw Bay Education Committee offers the Education Incentive Program to local KBIC tribal students. Monetary incentives are awarded at the end of each of the four marking periods of the academic year. Awards are given for Honor Roll and Perfect Attendance. Students must meet the following criteria: 1. Must be enrolled KBIC members. 2. Must reside in one of the following four counties: Baraga, Houghton, Ontonagon or Marquette. 3. Must attend a public or private school. A student’s Honor Roll status is defined according to the regulations of their school district. Students in grades four through twelve are eligible to receive this award. Perfect Attendance follows the school policy also but time for doctor or dental appointments and funerals may be allowed. Please contact the following people for more information: • L’Anse Area Schools – Shellie Denomie 524-0367 shdenomi@laschools.K12.mi.us • Baraga Area Schools – Helen Jondreau 353-6661 hjondreau@up.net • All others contact Amy St. Arnold 353-4117 amy@kbic-nsn.gov Houghton, Ontonagon and Marquette students must provide a copy of the student report cards. If attendance is not noted on the card, please have a school official document by signature. Report cards may be mailed to Keweenaw Bay Tribal Center, Education Office, 16419 Beartown Rd., Baraga, MI 49908. SEPTEMBER IS NATIONAL CHOLESTEROL EDUCATION MONTH! About half of Americans have elevated cholesterol levels—either high or borderline-high, according to the American Health Association. Artery-clogging cholesterol is a major risk factor for heart disease, the #1 killer of American men and women. But because there are often no symptoms, many people with high cholesterol may not know they have it. Call you physician’s office and schedule a cholesterol checkup today! CEO’S REPORT FOR THE MONTH OF JULY 2009. Activities Reported by the CEO Larry Denomie for the month of July 2009. Fiscal year 2010 budget preparation season has begun. All Tribal departments, governmental and enterprise, received notice regarding the timelines for preparing and submitting their budgets. If all goes as planned, Council will be meeting to review and approve budgets by mid-September. The Anishinaabe Anokii Business Center located in the Tribe’s Industrial Park had closed temporarily in July. The grant that funded the program ended the end of June but a special request was approved by Council in mid-July to fund the continuation of the program through the remainder of the fiscal year which runs through the end of September. Gregg Nominelli, Economic Developer, and staff of the business center are continuing to seek grant funding to continue the program beyond September. On July 17, 2009, bids submitted for the Old US 41 water main extension project were opened. The project has been awarded to Danielson Contracting. The project has come in under budget, and the grant award leaves just over $100,000 in excess funds that must be utilized for other needy water projects by the end of the fiscal year. A list of potential projects will be brought before Council at their meeting on August 20, 2009, for consideration. An organizational change has taken place within the Tribe. After review and consideration of demand for internal HVAC and Electrical staff, if was determined that a reduction of one full time employee would occur. Additionally, there were two departments operating separate of one another where they have been now condensed into one. The HVAC and Electrical department now fall under the Maintenance Department at both the Casino and Governmental operations. The new Early Childhood Education Center project continues to be worked on. Terri Denomie, Head Start Programs Director, presented at last month’s regular Council meeting options in moving forward with an alternate project. We have met internally and continue to work on options for the proposed addition onto the Community Center in Baraga as well as the option of expanding the current Head Start facilities in Zeba. The Inter-Tribal Council of Michigan has applied for expansion grants to have the ability to serve additional children as well as upgrading the facility in Zeba to accommodate the increase. Since the initial meeting, we have learned that KBIC has been awarded an additional $600,000 ICDBG grant through stimulus funding but was denied a $2M grant application through the Native American Housing Block Grant. The additional funding received puts a total of nearly $1.3M toward the project. At the direction of Council, we have formally requested the ability to utilize the awarded funds to expand at the Zeba location. Additionally, the Inter-Tribal Council has not received word yet whether their grants have been approved. Once we know the outcome of their request, we can better decide on which option to move forward with. The Tribe’s Grant Office has been working very hard to meet demanding deadlines for numerous grant opportunities. They are to be commended for their efforts and congratulated on the number of grants they have been able to get out and also get approved. Along with the additional $600K ICDBG grant approved for the Early Childhood Education project, they have recently worked on and successfully written grants totaling in excess of $2M. Some of the grants haven’t been officially noticed yet, so I am not able to list them specifically. We will provide a list to Council at their next meeting and will formally report to the Community next month. The Health Center has a new addition to staff. Dr. Dennis Beaufait has been hired as the Psychologist and began office hours the week of August 10, 2009. Tyler Larson who served as the Tribe’s Youth and Facilities Coordinator has transferred to the Tribal Police Department. Shellie Denomie was hired as Interim Coordinator and will continue in the position through the end of August to complete the annual youth trip which this year is to the Chicago area. Cheryne LaPointe Tolonen Clements was hired by Council as the permanent coordinator at their meeting on August 13, 2009. Cheryne will begin her new job on August 17, 2009. 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. Ojibwa Community Library News Come into the library and check out the MEL (Michigan "e" library) databases that are available on-line. You can research any topic that is in printed form, i.e. books, magazines, newspapers, articles in journals. Once you find what you need, the information can be printed for $.10 a page. Once again, I am offering amnesty (late fines are waived) on books, movies, etc. that have been checked out of the library and are grossly overdue. This offer is good for one month, anything returned after September 30, 2009, will be billed. These items can be dropped off at the book drop bin at the entrance to the college. Remember to be courteous when checking out items, return them on time so others can enjoy them too! ~ Mary Bergerson, Library Director Miigwetch. Larry J. Denomie III, CEO (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: SECRETARY’S REPORT FOR THE MONTH OF JULY 2009. In July 2009, the Tribal Council had one Regular Tribal Council Meeting, two Special/ Finance Meetings and four Special Council Meetings. The Regular Council Meeting was held on July 11, 2009, and is covered in the August 2009 Tribal Newsletter. The first Finance/Special Council Meeting was held on July 9, 2009. Actions taken: • Approved funding projects with the US Department of Agriculture Natural Resources Conservation Service for Sand Point capping and building the walleye ponds; • Approved the bid of Fischer Biological Services for Hatchery Improvements Feasibility Analysis; • Approved Resolution KB1695-2009 – Community Service Block Grant American Recovery and Reinvestment Act Plan; • Renewed the Property & Liability insurance with M3 effective July 1, 2009; • Finance – Reviewed audits of Government, Casino’s, Businesses, Tribal Construction and Ojibwa Housing. A Finance council meeting was held on July 14, 2009. Council: • Financed – Reviewed financials of Casino’s, Businesses and Government; • Reviewed the FY 2010 Budget timeline; • Agreed to close the Wildcat Fence checking account and to put the balance towards the payroll funds due; • Agreed to post the Youth Director position. The next special council meeting was held 1. Down payment assistance for home purchase; 2. College tuition and expenses for residents; 3. Business expansion/start-up expenses; 4. Home repair for member-owned homes; 5. Credit repair for homeownership; 6. Vehicle purchase for work/school. • • • • • • • • • 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. on July 16, 2009. Council: • Approved the meeting minutes of March 12, 19, 20, and 26, 2009; • Approved the bid of WRR Environmental in the amount of $3,621.40 for the Clean Sweep Household Hazardous Waste Collection Event; • Approved the bid of Larson Pump Co. in the amount of $19,000 for 2009 well abandonments; • Approved Resolution KB1696-2009 – Title IV-B Grants for Social Services; • Overturned the termination in Case #01509 and stipulated the employee have six months probation and attend EAP; • Agreed to move forward with a News Program for the Radio Stations and to have the General Manager temporarily appoint a News Director and develop a job description. Council met next on July 17, 2009. Actions taken: • Agreed to apply for and ICDBG grant for a gas station in L’Anse; • Approved a budget modification in the amount of $25,000 for funding of the Anokii Center through September 2009; • Approved the HVAC job description changes and reassigned the HVAC employee and Electrician from the Enterprises to the Government; • Approved the Service Agreements with Joe Brazeau, Building Inspector and Dominic Picciano, Electrical Inspector. • On July 23, 2009, a special council meeting was held. Actions taken: Respectfully submitted, Toni Minton, Secretary • • • • • • Approved the bid of Danielson Contracting for the Old 41/Mission Road Water Main Extension Project; Donated $100 and a tank of gas to Courtney Swartz for funeral travel; Donated $300 to Mary Campioni for medical travel assistance; Donated $250 to the Superior Alliance fundraiser; Agreed to open a new account at Superior National Bank for the Guaranteed Loan Program; Approved the M3 Insurance Consultant Agreement for $30,000; Agreed to move forward with a CLEC. The final special council meeting was held on July 30, 2009. Council: • Approved the meeting minutes of June 3, and June 8, 2006; • Reviewed the draft of the Code of Ethics; • Approved the purchase of the Voyager Plus Carpet Extractor for the Casino in the amount of $9,125.00; • Approved Resolution KB1698-2009 – ICDBG grant application for a gas station in L’Anse; • Renewed Morin Fireworks Permit; • Approved the Employment Agreement of Dr. Beaufait; • Approved July donations totaling $1,500.00; • Approved the Consultant Agreement with the 106 Group, Ltd. 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. (10) Midaaswi HEALTH CARE FOR AMERICA NOW! Brownfield Program Environmental Property Assessment Natural Resources Department Brownfield Program staff recently completed environmental site investigation and underground storage tank removal activities on a KBIC-owned property located on Keweenaw Bay across from the intersection of US 41 and Third Street in Baraga. A property assessment revealed past ownership by Standard Oil and interviews with knowledgeable people found that a gas station once occupied this property. A geophysical survey of the property was conducted by Environmental Protection Agency staff in 2008, to attempt to locate any buried materials of the property. Following the geophysical survey, a scope of work was prepared to complete an environmental investigation at the property. The scope of work included completing excavations in select areas to see if buried wastes or underground storage tanks from the former gas station were present. Tribal Construction was then hired to complete the excavations. Excavation activities began in June 2009, and uncovered a point well, scrap metal debris, and two small underground storage tanks. The tanks were investigated, emptied of liquid contents, and removed from the property. A waste disposal firm was hired to pump out storage tank contents which consisted mostly of water with trace amounts of petroleum product and to remove a small amount of contaminated soil found during the tank removal. After the tank removal, soils remaining in the excavation were sampled for laboratory analysis. Down gradient groundwater and surface waters were sampled for laboratory analysis. Laboratory testing of samples collected after all tank removal activity was completed, indicated that contaminants were not a concern in the tank excavation, and no further actions were required. The excavation was then filled in with clean fill. The Brownfield Program in the Natural Resource Department is supported using funds from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. For more information on the Brownfield Program please contact us at 524-5757 or visit the Brownfield Program website at: http://www.ojibwa.com/html/NR/ERP/erp.htm 2009 Spring Clean Up continued. Year 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 Event Unit VOB Spring Cleanup VOB Spring Cleanup VOB Spring Cleanup VOB Spring Cleanup KBIC Spring Cleanup VOB Spring Cleanup KBIC Spring Cleanup 474 (loads) Total (tons) 180 410 (loads) 160 359 (loads) 158 320 (loads) 200 80 (households) 40 97 (members) 60 116 (households) September 2009 Calendars Events Sept. 3 — OCC orientation 5pm. Sept. 7 — Labor Day—Tribal Gov’t businesses closed. Sept. 8 — KBIC Head Start/Early Head Start Open House 11am-2pm; first day of classes at OCC. Sept. 9 — First day of classes at KBIC Head Start/Early Head Start. Sept. 12 — Saturday Council Meeting, 9am. Sept. 25 — Michigan Indian Day—Tribal Gov’t businesses closed. 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-today event listings, visit www.ojibwa.com and click on calendar. For Youth events, see @ www.ojibwa.com, click on youth club, or contact 353-4643/Main Office at Youth Club, or 353-4644 for the facility attendants or the Kitchen/craft rooms. Thanks for taking time to stand up for a guarantee of quality, affordable health care for all. Call 1888-436-8427 to be connected to your members of Congress. Don’t forget to call three times, one for your Representative and once for each of your Senators. Please be polite. Ask to talk with someone who can speak to the Senator or Representative’s position on health care. Samples of what to say: If your member of Congress has not decided which side he or she is on: Encourage them to declare their support by using the following example. “I am calling as ask (Senator/Representative _____) to support health care reform that guarantees quality, affordable health care for everyone. I want a choice: to be able to keep my private insurance, or join a public insurance plan based on a family’s ability to pay. I also want rules to regulate the insurance industry so that health coverage would actually be there when I need it. If your member of Congress is with us: Give thanks and reinforce your support by using the following example text when you call. “I am calling to thank (Senator/Representative ____) for standing up for real health care reform. Please let him/her know I am glad to hear that (Senator/Representative _____) is with us for a guarantee of quality, affordable health care for all in 2009.” If you member of Congress is with the insurance company: Share your disappointment and encourage them to join us for quality, affordable health care for all by using the following example test when you call. “I have heard that (Senator/Representative _____) is opposed to a comprehensive health care solution that makes quality, affordable health care for all. Please let (Senator/Representative _____) know that private insurers have dominated the health care debate for too long and their solutions don’t work. Don’t leave Americans alone to fend for themselves in the bureaucratic, unregulated private insurance market. We want a choice to keep our private plans with fair rules to protect us from being denied, or to choose a public plan that is affordable and accessible to all.” Ten Reasons To Support The Health Care Reform Bills The health reform debate is in full swing, and proposals are taking shape. Even though key decisions are still being made, it is clear we have gained significant ground. There is much to be excited about it these proposals. Millions more people will gain health insurance, coverage will be more affordable, and people will have access to the health services they need. These provisions will improve the lives of millions of Americans and give us the peace of mind that comes with knowing that we have coverage no matter what. But the road ahead will not be easy. We must continue to work for improvements and we must ensure that we do not lose the gains we have made so far—they are worth fighting for. Below are some highlights in the health care reform proposals. What we’ll get from heath reform: 100 45 1. A major expansion of Medicaid coverage—fully Bowling is starting at the Pressbox. Join a league! New bowlers/teams are welcome. Call the Pressbox for information 353353-9904. Keweenaw Bay Indian Community Employment Opportunities On Call positions: Board Operator (Sept. 4) On-Air Announcer (Sept. 4) * Community Service Supervisor * LPN * RN * Unit Manager * Account Executive/Sales * Cashier * Receptionist/Clerical Worker * Pre-Primary Teaching Assistant * Youth Program & Facility Attendant For current job listings, complete job announcements, applications and closing dates contact: KBIC Personnel Department, 16429 Bear Town Road, Baraga, MI 499089210 or 906-353-6623, ext 4176 or 4140 or visit: www.ojibwa.com. http://www.kbic-nsn.gov/html/personnel.htm federally funded—for millions of low-income working families who currently fall through the cracks. 2. A regulated marketplace that clamps down on insurance company abuses so people can no longer be denied coverage. 3. Requirements that insurance companies spend more of the premium dollars they collect on patient care. 4. Sliding-scale subsidies so middle-class, working families can afford the coverage they need to keep their families healthy. 5. A strong public plan option that will provide choice, stability, and an honest yardstick to keep costs down. 6. Limits on out-of-pocket spending, giving Americans real health security and peace of mind. 7. Much-needed relief for small businesses so they can afford to offer coverage to their employees. 8. Improvements to Medicare that will help seniors and people with disabilities afford their drugs and their cost sharing. 9. Better access to coverage for uninsured children so they can get the care they need. 10. Long overdue steps to modernize the system, improve the quality of care provided, and curb unnecessary spending, so our American health care system delivers the best possible care. (11) Ashi bezhig Making friends... 353 353--7127 "Owned and operated by the Ojibwa Housing Authority. All proceeds go to affordable housing activities in our community." (12) Ashi Niizh Permit No. 5 Calumet, MI PAID Keweenaw Bay Indian Community 16429 Bear Town Rd-Baraga, Mi 49908-9210 U.S Postage PRESORTED STD --- Source: Frix Law Library, https://www.frixlaw.com/law-library/documents/tribal%3Akeweenaw_bay%3Aeeb13f86ac316e62. Public record. Not legal advice.