A Monthly Chronicle of the White Earth Nation (2026)

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Anishinaabeg Today

A Monthly Chronicle of the White Earth Nation

Vol. 31 No. 1

White Earth, Minn.

2026 Elections

today@whiteearth-nsn.gov

Wednesday, January 7, 2026

White Earth makes trade with Prairie Band Potawatomi

Eligible candidates can begin

filing for office on January 9

The White Earth Reservation Business Committee hereby

announces that a General Election will be held June 9 on the White

Earth Reservation.

This General Election provides for a March 31 Primary

Election in the event there are more than two eligible candidates for

the open position.

Elected positions to be filled are as follows:

A. Secretary/Treasurer – White Earth Reservation Business

Committee – for a Four (4) Year Term.

B. District I Representative- White Earth Reservation

Business Committee – for a Four (4) Year Term

C. District II Representative - White Earth Reservation

Business Committee – for a Four (4) Year Term

Candidates shall file during regular business hours beginning

Jan. 9 at the White Earth Compliance offices located in the

Shooting Star Casino north parking lot at 779 East Jefferson Ave.,

in Mahnomen. Filing will close on Jan. 20 at 4:30 p.m. Eligible

candidates will be certified by Feb. 9. Challenges to certification

matters will be due by Feb. 11.

The Election Ordinance provides that if a candidate receives

more than half of the votes cast for

that position in the primary, that

candidate is the winner and no further election is required for that

position.

ECRWSS

Postal Customer

PRESORTED

STANDARD

US POSTAGE

PAID

Detroit Lakes MN

Permit NO 14

A copy of the 2026 election

calender is available on Page 24.

More election information will be

available in future editions of the

Anishinaabeg Today, White Earth

website at www.whiteearth.com

and the White Earth Facebook

page.

Prairie Band Potawatomi tribal leaders

recently made a 12-hour trip from Kansas

to the White Earth Reservation to meet

with White Earth leaders and staff. While

here, the two tribes traded 500 pounds of

buffalo meat for 400 pounds of wild rice.

The Prairie Band Potawantomi visited

last summer and toured White Earth’s

cannabis operation and the two sides

agreed on the buffalo/wild rice exchange.

Leaders also discussed tribal sovereignty

and additional current and future projects.

Top: The two tribes make the exchange

at the Agricultural building in Mahnomen.

Left: Potawatomi Tribal Council members

Ronald “Tony” Wahweotten Jr., and Lorrie

Melchior load wild rice from White Earth.

Photos by Gary W. Padrta

WE welcomes

Commissioner

The White Earth Tribal

Council and key staff

met with Minnesota

Department of Corrections

Commissioner Paul

Schnell, holding support

dog leash, and DOC Tribal

Relations Director Wendy

Spry (White Earth), second

from right, on Dec. 30 at

Tribal Headquarters.

Some of the topics

discussed involved tribal

supervision, updated

legislation, and 1115

Waiver Considerations.

Photo by Richard Hanks

Anishinaabeg Today

The Anishinaabeg Today (AT) is the official publication of White Earth Nation and is published once a

month. Editorials and articles appearing in the AT are

the responsibility of the authors and do not necessarily

reflect the opinion, attitude or philosophy of the AT

staff or the White Earth Nation Reservation Business

Committee.

The submission of articles and photos is encouraged, however, they are subject to editing for grammar,

length, malicious, and libelous content. Submission

does not guarantee publication. The Editor reserves the

right to reject any advertising, material, or letters.

Deadlines are strictly enforced! Deadline dates are

printed below in each issue.

The AT is distributed at no charge to all postal

patrons living on White Earth Reservation and by mail

to White Earth Nation members (who request the

newspaper) living within the United States or at military instillations overseas. One paper per household.

The cost of a newspaper subscription is $12 per year

for non-members (including descendants) living off the

reservation. Current and past issues of the AT can

be read online for free at www.whiteearth. com.

For more information call 218-935-3569, email:

today@whiteearth-nsn.gov, fax: 833-607-0776, or

write to:

Anishinaabeg Today

PO Box 418

White Earth, MN 56591

Memberships

v Indigenous Journalist Association

v Minnesota Newspaper Association

WER Business Committee

Michael Fairbanks

Chairman

Michael LaRoque

Secretary-Treasurer

Henry George Fox

District 1 Representative

Eugene Sommers

District 2 Representative

Laura Lee Erickson

District 3 Representative

Editor

Wednesday, January 7, 2026

Pine Point wants more control over cost/future of energy

By Winona LaDuke

It was like that movie Back to the Future. I traveled to

a meeting with White Earth Tribal representatives and 8th

Fire Solar to meet with some energy industry professionals

in Minneapolis at OATI (Open Access Technology

International). OATI supplies software to manage the grid

which moves electrical power around the country and

around the world. We discussed renewable energy, the

future, and how local communities’ utilities and rural cooperatives are moving towards the sun and the wind for the

future of power.

After the meeting, I traveled back to the reservation in

a Ford Lightning electric truck. I was in the back seat and

two of my sons were in the front seat. That’s the future.

What is the future of energy?

What do you want it to be?

Pine Point village on White Earth decided it wanted to

have a little more control over the costs and future of energy. This fall, Pine Point Elementary School, with l0 Power,

8th Fire Solar and Ziegler Energy, installed 480 kw of solar

power for the school -- that’s a school that is l00% electric

and serves one of the poorest communities in Minnesota.

Their electric bill is whopping! Scheduled to come online

by January of 2026, the project could provide l00% of the

school’s energy, and with battery backup power, that school

will keep the power going till the grid comes back up after

it goes down. What’s wrong with that?

For now, most of the power used by the school and the

White Earth community has been coming from some dirty

coal plants in North Dakota, which have been spewing

nasty stuff towards Minnesota, and a few big dam projects

in Manitoba, which are destroying that northern river.

That’s where fish and migratory birds live. I’d like to move

along.

On what my ancestors called the Scorched Path, these

types of outdated power production will cause the bills to

get bigger and the problems worse. For 100 years or so,

economists and all have been saying Big is Best. But more

power outages, long inefficient transmission lines and generation -- which waste about 61% of the energy between

point of origin and use -- are not a very reliable future.

That’s why we need local power.

The White Earth tribal officials from the Tribal

Utilities Commission and tribal planners went to see OATI,

sort of the gurus of electric grid management. Simply stated, utility power producers and transmission entities need

to move power around, turn off and on switches, “manage

loads” and such. Computers and smart people operate the

“smart grid.”

With customers like Great River Energy, Ottertail

Power, Xcel and others “OATI provides solutions for the

operational challenges of energy providers in an industry

that is constantly changing. Changes in technology, market

demand, and regulations require utility companies to constantly adapt…” it says on their website. That’s the future.

That’s being adaptable, or their words -- having interoperability.

The White Earth tribal staff and community members

from 8th Fire Solar and Akiing listened to these guys talk

about the grids of the future. That future grid for them

though is mostly renewable energy and distributed energy –

and not all from centralized power plants. That’s local generation, wind in a farm field and community units called

micro grids.

The writing is on the wall, and we all just need to read

it. This fall, the Federal Energy Regulatory Council reported some 68% of the energy coming online in our region is

solar, with wind and batteries pushing that higher. And the

majority of what’s getting retired is coal. This region is

called MISO (Midcontinent Independent System

Operators), and MISO is changing.

Despite attempts by the Trump administration to

change the course of history, keeping a 50-year-old plant

that wastes lots of energy on life support doesn’t make any

sense. It sure doesn’t make any sense for our communities.

Why should we pay for monopolized fossil fuel industries,

when we can each bask in the sun? And, by the way, solar

is a third less expensive to put in than new coal, or some

crazy mini-nuclear plants on the Missouri River to feed a

data center.

Over there in OATI land, they had all sorts of charts

and graphics, and what seemed clear is that the future is in

these changes, and that most of the energy industry is

embracing them. But what’s even better is the idea of using

less energy. That’s what 8th Fire Solar is working on -reducing home heating bills by implementing simple solar

thermal panels, installed on a south-facing wall. Heating

bills using solar thermal can be reduced by up to 30% and

considering that almost 40% of energy bills this time of

year are heating, well that’s some significant savings.

As the longest night of the year comes upon us, the sun

will return, and I want to be ready. Let’s all work together

to make a good future. These rural cooperatives who serve

us all can be part of making that future, and I think that

these smart grid ideas and community-scaled projects are

the power of the future.

Pine Point and OATI are talking about the future of

energy, right along with 8th Fire Solar. And as I sat there in

the back of that electric Ford Lightning, headed back to the

reservation, I realized that I want to be part of that future.

Gary W. Padrta

Future Issues *

Deadline

Issue Date

February 25

March 4

January 28

March 25

April 29

May 28

February 4

April 1

May 6

From left are

Gwekaanimad

Gasco, Nick

Bellrock, Jon

Martin and

William Sayers

with the Ford

Lightning truck at

the 8th Fire Solar

shop.

June 3

* Deadline and issue dates subject to change

Photo by

Winona LaDuke

Wednesday, January 7, 2026

Getting a Tribal ID

or Renewal

If you don’t have your old Tribal ID,

you MUST first go to Enrollments

for a CDIB.

To change your address on a Tribal

ID you MUST have something in

your name showing your new

address.

White Earth DMV Licensing

Anishinaabeg Today

News From Chairman Michael Fairbanks

Aaniin

Boozhoo

Gaa-waabaabiganikaag

Niminwendam Waabaminaan!

Gichi-Manidoo-Giizis!

Aaniish inaa akawe ninga-gaagiizomaag aadizookaanag.

Weweni-sago-na

Greetings White Earth Nation I am Happy to See

You!

It is already January the Great Spirit Moon!

Everyone Be Safe.

Many moons ago, our Anishinaabe ancestors

journeyed here from the eastern edge of Turtle Island,

North America following the waters from the Atlantic

coast on up through the St. Lawrence River and the

Great Lakes, through Mashkiki-Ziibiing, meaning

Medicine River but the colonizers deemed it Bad

River like many other sacred places we have.

Mashkiki Ziibiing is the heart of Turtle Island. I have

ancestors from there; Bad place was never bad to us;

it was made “bad” only by those who did not understand its power strength to us.

Our relatives remain scattered along that great

water road, bound together by blood, memory, and

language. We were taught long ago that no force could

ever erase us as long as we continued to speak our

words and tell our stories, passing them down from

gichi-aya'aag gagwewinan gagwejitoonan miinawaa

gagwewidamawinan – teachings that are carried and

remembered, abinoonjiinyag, elders to children hand

to hand, breath to breath, and generation to generation.

We are still here because our ancestors knew this.

Our old teachings were written on wiigwaas,

birchbark scrolls, and actually some of those sacred

records have found their way home again to

Gaawaabaabiganikaag Ishkoning, White Earth Nation

a few years ago. That return did not happen by accident. It came at the right time, because we now walk

in the era of the Seventh Fire which is being ignited by

our children and grandchildren, the Oshki Ogimaag

who came here just to do just that.

It is said they are the ones who will heal us all and

take us out of Historical Trauma. They are igniting the

Eighth and Final Fire as we speak and it is prophesized they are the ones who will take us up and out of

Historical Trauma. My grandma said, “Those 8th Fire

babies weren’t created like us or our ancestors they

come here as healers not affected by their elders’ history.”

Each fire marks a chapter of our Anishinaabe history, before the arrival of the gichi-mookomaanag,

long knife people (White race) - to these modern days,

reminding us of what our people endured and how we

survived. These teachings slow us down, steady our

hearts, and remind us who we truly are as

Anishinaabeg.

White Earth State Forest / Tamarac Refuge

We have been working hard for the return of the

160,000-acre White Earth State Forest to the White

Earth Band of Anishinaabe. White Earth Nation’s goal

is the management and return of the White Earth State

Forest to protect the resources in an environmentally

positive manner for the benefit of present and future

generations and to ensure the forest lands on the White

Earth State Forest are managed in an environmentally

sensitive, sustainable, and economically viable manner. And manage the forest land in balance with the

conservation of natural, aesthetic, and our own

Anishinaabe cultural values.

We have made great strides in clarifying the

White Earth Band’s treaty rights and regulatory

authority in the entirety of the Tamarac National

Wildlife Refuge, including both the portion located

within the White Earth Nation and the portion within

the 1855 Treaty Territory. The Tamarac National

Wildlife Refuge encompasses approximately 42,724

acres. A little over half of the Refuge (24,162 acres) is

located within the White Earth Band of the Minnesota

Chippewa Tribe’s Reservation, and the rest of the

Refuge is located within the 1855 Treaty Territory

wherein the Band retains hunting, fishing and gathering rights.

Elder Tiny Homes

In an increasing need for Elder housing, White

Earth Builders completed and turned over the keys to

Elder Tiny Homes in Rice Lake (10), Naytahwaush

(6), White Earth (4) and Pine Point (2). These homes

were proudly manufactured by Dynamic Homes of

Detroit Lakes, a company owned by Ho-Chunk Inc.,

the award-winning economic development corporation of the Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska.

White Earth Buys Land Near Moorhead

The White Earth Band recently purchased 280

acres east of Moorhead at the intersection of Interstate

94 and Highway 336 at a local land auction. This purchase is part of our broader efforts to support the longterm economic and cultural sustainability of our people. As stewards of our own future, we are continuously exploring opportunities to diversify our economic

initiatives, which may include but are not limited to

housing, education, environmental preservation, business development, and cultural enrichment.

Bison Program

The White Earth Bison Program continues to

move forward with our goals and initiatives. The program recently expanded its herd with the arrival of 45

new bison, which includes yearlings, mature cows and

two cow and calf pairs. The program welcomed its

first calf to its breeding herd near Naytahwaush. This

historic birth marks a new chapter in our ongoing

efforts to restore the bison to Anishinaabe lands. We

are very excited about continuing to move this program forward and anticipate further requests related to

the program. Whether those requests are for meat/consumption or for any ceremonial purposes or items

(hides, bones, skulls, etc.) we look forward to doing

our best to accommodate these requests and leading in

a good way.

Waabigwan Mashkiki Celebrates Historic

Grand Opening

On May 24 in Moorhead, Minn., we made history

as the first tribal cannabis dispensary to operate offreservation in the state of Minnesota. This moment is

not only a step forward for White Earth but a strong

message of sovereignty and vision for all of

Anishinaabe Country. A second dispensary was

See Chairman Page 24

Anishinaabeg Today

News From Secretary-Treasurer Michael J. LaRoque

Boozhoo White Earth Nation,

As we begin a new year, I want to share several

updates from December that impact Tribal members

both on and off the reservation. This update highlights recent meetings, community events, and yearend activities that reflect our continued commitment

to transparency, strong financial management, and

the well-being of our people.

Meetings and Travel Updates

In December, I attended the Minnesota Indian

Affairs Council (MIAC) Quarterly Meeting at the

Lower Sioux Community in Morton, Minn. The

meeting included an Executive Session with Tribal

leaders and MIAC staff, along with presentations and

updates from Minnesota state commissioners.

Tribal leaders and staff also participated in our

annual consultation with the Minnesota Department

of Human Services. Commissioner Shireen Gandhi

and her staff attended in person to discuss shared

Tribal and DHS priorities.

We also met with the United States Fish and

Wildlife Service at the Tamarac National Wildlife

Refuge building to discuss negotiations and timelines

for the annual co-land management funding agreement.

In addition, Tribal leaders and staff took part in

a two-day action planning work session with the Blue

Stone Strategy Group, sharing priorities and challenges to help guide long-term planning for White

Earth Nation.

Lastly, we held our annual consultation with the

Minnesota

Department

Corrections.

Commissioner Paul Schnell and Tribal Liaison

Wendy Spry attended in person to discuss culture and

language in correctional settings, Tribal supervision,

and budget considerations. A key focus was the

Assistant Tribal Probation Officers Program, which

White Earth Nation has successfully operated for

five years and is now being recognized as a model by

other Tribal Nations.

Holiday Event Updates

I had the opportunity to attend several holiday

events throughout the month. I joined our Elders at

the White Earth Elders Christmas party held at the

Shooting Star Event Center. It was wonderful to visit

with Elders from both on and off the reservation. The

event included entertainment, drawings, dinner, and

a $30 gaming coupon for each attendee. Due to an

incoming storm, the event ended early to ensure

everyone returned home safely, but it was still an

enjoyable event for the elders.

I also attended the White Earth Employees

Christmas Party at the Shooting Star Event Center.

This event included games, entertainment, dinner,

and time to visit with employees and their spouses.

Everyone in attendance also received a $30 gaming

coupon, and I appreciated the opportunity to connect

with staff and their families.

In addition, I attended the annual New Year’s

Sobriety Powwow at the Naytahwaush Sports

Complex. This event continues to bring together

Tribal members from across the state. I want to thank

the Powwow Committee members who dedicate

their time during the busy holiday season to make

this event meaningful for our communities.

Looking Ahead: Reelection Announcement

As we enter 2026, I also want to share that I will

be seeking re-election as Secretary-Treasurer of

White Earth Nation.

Serving in this role has been an honor, and I am

proud of the work we have done together. Over the

past term, I have focused on responsible financial

leadership, improving transparency, and advocating

for benefits that directly support our members—

especially Elders, families and urban members.

This includes supporting member and elder disbursements when our finances allowed, strengthening communication and access to financial information through Tribal Council–approved processes, and

ensuring White Earth Nation maintains a strong

voice in state and federal consultations. I have also

worked to support culturally grounded programs and

initiatives that reflect our values and strengthen our

sovereignty.

I am grateful for the trust you have placed in me,

and I respectfully ask for your continued support so

we can continue moving White Earth Nation forward

together.

New Year’s Message to White Earth Nation

I wish everyone a happy and safe New Year.

Thank you to our membership for contributing to a

successful year, and I look forward to building on

that momentum in 2026. Together, we can continue

to do great things for our Nation.

Miigwech,

Mike LaRoque

Secretary-Treasurer

White Earth Nation

Wednesday, January 7, 2026

Anishinaabeg Today

Wednesday, January 7, 2026

News From District 2 Rep. Eugene Sommers

Boozhoo Anishinaabe,

Health and Safety Disbursement

At the November RBC meeting, a $300 Health

and Safety disbursement for Tribal members was

approved. To qualify, applicants must be enrolled

members of the White Earth Band of Ojibwe and 18

years of age or older. Applications were accepted

through Dec. 31, 2025.

White Earth Natural Resources is hosting a Youth Snowmobile

Safety Riding Performance Course on Jan. 11, starting at 1 p.m.

at the Mahnomen Natural Resources Office. Open to ages 11–15,

with a class limit of 25 participants. All attendees must complete

the online course prior at snowmobilecourse.com and bring the

printed certificate to the field day. Contact Zoe Keezer at Natural

Resources to register: Zoe.Keezer@whiteearth-nsn.gov

RBC Christmas Party

The RBC Christmas Party was very well attended this year. Chi-Miigwech to all the employees who

attended and helped coordinate the event. The White

Earth Nation now employs more than 2,100 employees, and that number continues to grow.

DHS Consultation

Tribal leaders and staff met this week to address

several priorities affecting health care services and

reimbursement for the White Earth Nation. The discussion centered on ensuring tribal programs can

continue delivering behavioral health and recovery

services while remaining compliant with state and

federal Medicaid requirements.

Topics included Medicaid billing compliance,

credentialing and licensing rules for tribal health

providers, and documentation standards for peer

recovery support services. Participants also reviewed

reimbursement timelines and rates for outpatient

mental health services, including those provided in

specialized treatment settings, as well as requirements under MinnesotaCare for submitting claims to

managed care organizations.

The meeting also addressed telehealth policy,

with a focus on reimbursement for audio-only services, which remain critical for serving patients in

rural areas with limited broadband access. Tribal representatives emphasized the importance of clear

guidance and fair reimbursement to support access to

culturally appropriate, community based care.

USFWS Consultation

The White Earth Nation recently participated in

a consultation with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife

Service (USFWS) regarding the Tamarac National

Wildlife Refuge. The Tribe is pursuing a larger role

in managing portions of the refuge through a formal

agreement with USFWS.

Using federal law that allows tribes to carry out

certain governmental functions, the Nation is seeking

authority and funding to help manage water

resources including the protection of wild rice along

with forestry, cultural, and visitor services. This

effort is about strengthening Tribal stewardship, honoring cultural connections to the land, and building a

long-term partnership that reflects the Tribe’s historical ties to the area.

Contacts

Eugene Sommers

Email: Eugene.Sommers@whiteearth-nsn.gov

Office Phone: 218-935-6250

Christopher Vanwert Jr.

Email: Chrstopher.Vanwert@whiteearth-nsn.gov

Cell Phone: 218-850-2533

Minwaajimowinan – Good Stories

Naytahwaush artists featured in Bemidji art exhibit

An exhibit entitled Minwaajimowinan – Good

Stories is coming to the Watermark Art Center in

Bemidji, Minn. This exhibition remembers and highlights community members who have served the

Naytahwaush community for many years and recalls

their stories of growing up in this small village in the

heart of the White Earth Reservation.

This exhibit also showcases artists and their

families with roots in Naytahwaush. Kent Estey,

who is the guest curator for this exhibit, is showcasing families of artists and their artwork to the forefront. “Oftentimes, the only news we hear about our

little villages on the reservation is bad news,” says

Estey. “We are so much more than the bad things

that happen to us. Our woods are full of amazing

artists who do beautiful work, and their artistry

deserves to be shown in galleries and art centers.

Watermark is a place where we can show our

artistry,” Estey added.

The first edition of this show was on display at

the Gizhiigin Arts Incubator during the summer of

2024. During that show, more than 600 people

attended the exhibition to learn about Naytahwaush

and view the artistry of community members. “Our

village is full of talented people who paint, carve,

weave, bead, sew, and create music. I hope to intro-

WE Natural Resources hosting

Youth Snowmobile Safety Course

duce you to these families of artists who have been

creating all their lives,” Estey added. Families featured in the show include Estey, Robinson, LaVoy,

Bunker, Keahna, Burnette, Mason/Roy, and

Littlewolf. More than 30 artists’ work will be featured in this exhibition, showcasing basketry, beadwork, blankets, contemporary and traditional fashion, paintings, and more.

Minwaajimowinan – Good Stories will open

Friday, Jan. 9 and be on display until March 28. The

community is invited to stop in to see the exhibit and

attend the artist reception on Feb. 14 from 3-5 p.m.

Singer and songwriter Doyle Turner will share one of

his new songs about Naytahwaush, and pianist Jayme

Littlewolf, another Naytahwaush musician, will play

during the reception.

Minwaajimowinan-Good Stories is sponsored

by Paul Bunyan Communications.

Public Notice

All outdoor warning sirens will be tested on

the first Wednesday of every month at 6 p.m.

These are routine tests only —please do not

be alarmed. Thank you for your cooperation!

Anishinaabeg Today

News From District 3 Rep. Laura Lee Erickson

Warm holiday greetings to our tribal members,

families and communities. I hope this message finds

you in good health as we prepare to welcome a new

year 2026. May the coming year bring strength and

prosperity to our Nation.

12-15 Prairie Band Potawatomi tribal leaders

traveled to the White Earth Reservation to meet with

White Earth leaders and staff, strengthening intertribal

relations through the exchange of buffalo meat for

wild rice. Leaders also discussed tribal sovereignty

and additional current and future projects.

12-17 Tribal leaders and staff convened with U.S.

Fish and Wildlife personnel to discuss the Tamarack

Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) and outline

the next steps in the collaborative process. The meeting fostered productive dialogue and shared commitment toward advancing our mutual goals.

12-18 &19 Tribal leaders gathered with Blue

Stone Strategy partners for a strategic planning session focused on strengthening tribal governance and

progressing toward our long term goals. We are eager

to review the upcoming report which will outline the

actionable steps and insights gained from this collaborative effort.

12-21 I had the opportunity to attend the

Callaway Community Council’s Christmas event that

included a visit from Santa Claus, Mrs. Claus and the

Grinch. Families enjoyed hot cocoa, reindeer food and

gifts. Miigwech to the Community Council for organizing this wonderful event and bringing joy to families in our community.

Update and Upcoming Event

On Dec. 29, the Elbow Lake Boys and Girls Club

officially opened its doors. Youth interested in joining

can register by completing a simple application. If you

have any questions or need additional information,

please feel free to contact Unit Lead Kaelyn

Snetsinger at 218-570-9795. We look forward to welcoming young members and providing a positive

space for growth and activity.

Tribal offices closed for holiday

White Earth RBC offices will be closed on Monday,

Jan. 19 for Martin Luther King Jr. Day and will reopen on

Tuesday, Jan. 20 at 8 a.m.

Modified services will still be available.

12-4 I had the pleasure of joining the Iron Range

Community Council at their annual Christmas celebration. We enjoyed a delicious potluck meal, drawings, guest speaker and update about proposed project.

12-5 White Earth RBC Employee Christmas

Party was a blast, filled with laughter, good food, great

show: Mastermind Colin Cloud (check out his facebook page). A heartfelt miigwech to the amazing staff

who put so much time and care into coordinating this

event. To all of our employees: Thank you for the hard

work you put in each and every day for our people and

our community. Your commitment strengthens our

Nation and we are grateful for everything you do. And

a special shout out to the team members who kept

things running and continued working during the celebration, your service does not go unnoticed.

Wednesday, January 7, 2026

Reminder: Callaway Boys and Girls Club is now

open. Youth interested in joining, can register by completing an application.

The Minnesota Chippewa Tribe TEC meeting is

scheduled to be hosted by Leech Lake on Jan. 26-27.

Miigwech to all of our community councils and

administration for their time and commitment in

assisting with the Toys for Tots program. This program helps bring joy to our children and families.

A heartfelt thank you to all of our dedicated

employees across various organizations including

Shooting Star Casino, White Earth Housing, White

Earth Business Products, and other entities. Your hard

work and commitment this past year are truly appreciated and play a vital role in serving our community.

We recognize and commend your efforts in making a

positive difference every day.

We have received inquiries regarding the expiration date of the elder Christmas gift cards. Please note

that these gift cards are valid for one year from the

date of issuance.

If anyone would like to visit or discuss any concerns or ideas, please do not hesitate to contact us. We

are here to listen and offer support in any way we can.

Contact information:

Laura Lee Erickson

Office: 218-935-6238

Cell: 218-401-1153

laura.erickson@whiteearth-nsn.gov

Facebook: Laura Lee For District 3

Assistant for District 3

Tiffany Swiers

Office: 218-935-6235

Cell: 218-997-9124

tiffany.swiers@whiteearth-nsn.gov

Miigwech

Wednesday, January 7, 2026

Anishinaabeg Today

Giiwedinong Museum seeks oral histories

40th Anniversary of the White Earth Land Settlement Act

By Winona LaDuke

In 1986, Congress passed the White Earth Land

Settlement Act. Returning l0,000 acres of land to the

White Earth Anishinaabe and $17 million in settlement funds to the White Earth Tribe. What was this

for? How did this happen? Was it just?

The Giiwedinong Museum will be exploring the

history of land loss on the White Earth reservation,

and those who fought to protect our land- from the

1800s to the l980s. We’ve collected a lot of historical

information and interviewed people involved with

the 2415 investigation into land loss on the White

Earth Reservation. We want to talk to those who

remember and participated in meetings, demonstrations and the formation of Anishinaabe Akeeng, a

community organization, along with groups like

White Earth Heirs and Allottees Association to seek

justice.

The museum will be hosting a set of community meetings to record oral histories of land loss on the

White Earth reservation and the contemporary struggles of those in the l980s and beyond who sought

return of land. Those meetings will begin in January,

and the museum will work with community people to

prepare exhibits and materials from historic and present oral histories. We will hold meetings in White

Earth village, and in Minneapolis.

How did this happen?

“… the lands so held by any Indian shall be

exempt from taxation and sale for debt and shall not

be alienated except with approval of the Secretary of

Interior and in no case to any person not a member of

the Chippewa...” Article 7 of the 1867 Treaty. That

treaty was signed by President Andrew Johnson, and

was the basis for many of the Anishinaabe Chiefs to

move their people to the reservation, including

Mezhukegiizhig, who moved to the Rice Lake area,

Bad Boy (Pine Point and Tamarac Refuge area),

Wadena, whose family is today largely in

Naytahwaush, and of course Wabunoquod, or White

Cloud who became one of the principle leaders of the

Anishinaabe of White Earth.

The Problem

From an initial reservation area of 829,444

acres, in 1983 there were only 54,125 acres in tribal

hands, and 1,953 under allotment on the White Earth

Reservation. The Nelson Act, Clapp Act and

Steenerson Act stripped land and trees from the

Anishinaabe, followed by land takings like the

Tamarac National Wildlife Refuge and the White

Earth State Forest. It was devastating for our people,

and illegal. That is how the urban Anishinaabe came

to be - by the 1920s, three quarters of all tribal members had moved off reservation - refugees in our own

land. The museum will explore this historic record,

and the impacts on our people.

Then we will talk about resistance: A 1974

Minnesota Supreme Court decision and the actions

of George Aubid the heir of ZayZah, opened a door

for the beginning of land recovery by the White Earth

band, underscoring what would become a national

investigation.

The federal 2415 investigation began on White

Earth in l979 and was intended to review the allotments and the land transactions which had resulted in

the illegal transfer of lands. The investigation found

that there were several ways in which land had been

transferred illegally - tax forfeiture (ZayZah case),

forced fee patents, minor sales, full blood sales and

more. The initial investigation by the 2415 found at

least 99,350 acres of land were tied up in 947 disputes. The 2415 investigation was closed before

completion, but many of the researchers concluded

that if the 2415 study had been completed, two or

three times as much real estate could have been

claimed. Interviews with John Morrin, an initial

researcher for 2415 Claims, and others helped reveal

the injustices.

White Earth tribal members organized to inform

others about the land rights and the 2415 investigation. Tribal members formed groups like Anishinaabe

Akeeng, and the White Earth Coalition of Heirs and

Allottees. They held meetings, met with the tribal

council, and testified at state and federal hearings.

Initial legislation proposed in 1983 would have

“cleared land title,” in return for $3 million. This

was opposed by the community and later the tribal

council. There was a bitter battle, ending in the 1986

White Earth Land Settlement Act which was passed

in Congress under a suspension or the rules, and very

few legislators in the room, another theft of land.

The White Earth Land Settlement Act told a

story of what had happened to our people, but much

of the story was omitted, and there were clear denials

of due process and just compensation. This law was

opposed by many allottees and their descendants,

who filed two federal cases - Manypenny V. US and

Little Wolf V. US seeking return of land and due

process. These cases, filed in Washington, D.C., were

dismissed.

In l989, some members of Anishinaabe Akeeng

formed the White Earth Land Recovery Project and

were able over the course of 20 years, to secure 1,300

acres of land on which they farm, harvest maple

syrup, hold ceremonies, and created a radio station Niijii Radio (KKWE) in one of the facilities, the former Callaway Elementary School. That’s the legacy

and there is more.

The quest for justice on White Earth continues.

We hope to have a display commemorating the 40th

Anniversary of WELSA, and what it means in these

times, up for the summer.

Please email winona@giiwedinong.org if

you’ve got stories to tell and want to help organize

informational meetings!

White Earth Council of Elders

By Lucille M. Silk, Chairperson

White Earth Nation Council of Elders

The White Earth Nation Council of Elders has new leadership as of Dec. 1, 2025. The results were announced at the Dec.

2 meeting held at the Naytahwaush Elder Nutrition site. We

hope that a smooth transition can be upheld so that we can proceed with our goals, which is to advocate for all Elders of the

White Earth Nation to improve conditions and better health

care for Elders. We hope to continue to work with all programs

that are attempting better roadways for safe, healthy, and profitable outcomes for our Elders.

Our thanks to all the Elders that did come out to vote, and

here are the results: Chairperson: Lucille (Teedo) Silk, CoChair: Lawrence (Sam) Crowell, and the Treasurer: Pamela

Aspinwall. Unfortunately, no one applied for the Secretary nor

the three District Representative positions. Since we have an

elected quorum, we will proceed forward so as not to delay services to Elders. In the same manner that was conducted for the

Executive Board positions, we will use Facebook,

Anishinaabeg Today newspaper, Elder Nutrition sites, and

more importantly by way of the ‘Moccasin Telegraph.’ Please

consider applying for the remaining positions by contacting any

one of the current board members.

The next TEC meeting is Jan. 19-20 at Northern Lights in

Walker, Minn. This was the date given to us and if it is not correct, please call RBC to verify. With all the bad weather recently, we were unable to attend the TEC meeting that was held in

Minneapolis.

We want to wish everyone a healthy New Year. It is important to heed all our members of the White Earth Nation to be

very careful on the ice and snowy roads. The cold weather is

another factor that we must consider and dress accordingly.

Always check your weather resources before traveling and

make sure you are prepared for any emergency.

We are once again mourning the deaths of several members

from our Reservation and we must remember to pray and be

supportive to their families at this time.

Thank you for the monetary gifts we have received from

our Reservation Business Committee. Also, many thanks for

the programs that fed us, provided shelter needs, safety, and

materials to protect us during the cold winter.

Grief is like the ocean; it comes on waves ebbing and flowing. Sometimes the water is calm, and sometimes it is overwhelming. All we can do is learn to swim.

Valley View Manor

Valley View Manor in Ada has 1

bedroom units for rent.

Rent is based on 30% of your adjusted monthly

income calculated per HUD guidelines up to a

contract rent of $750 and includes: Water, Sewer,

Garbage and Heat.

For more information contact DW Jones Management.

218-547-3307 or apply at www.dwjonesmanagement.com

Deidra Berg

Anishinaabeg Today

Wednesday, January 7, 2026

White Earth Tribal and Community College Student Spotlight

White Earth Tribal and Community College

(WETCC) proudly honors a student each month who

exemplifies academic excellence, resilience, and personal growth. Students are nominated by staff who

recognize the unique and exceptional qualities within

our student body.

This month’s Student Spotlight is on Deidra

Berg.

Deidra’s story is one of courage and transformation. At just 14 years old, she began using drugs—

starting with meth and eventually heroin. Addiction

consumed her life for years, but on Nov. 26, 2019,

she made the life-changing decision to get sober.

Today, Deidra celebrates six years of sobriety, a milestone that reflects her strength, determination, and

commitment to building a better future.

When asked about her happiest moment, Deidra

didn’t hesitate: “The birth of my children. They are

my reason for everything. I want them to see that

anything is possible.” Her children inspire her daily

to keep moving forward and to show that perseverance pays off.

Getting accepted to WETCC was another turning point. Since enrolling, Deidra has accomplished

things she never imagined—like traveling to

Washington, D.C., speaking before state representatives, and sharing her story in a way that made a difference.

Deidra defines success by her achievements, and

the list is impressive.

She will earn her

Business Management

Certificate this semester, has made the

President’s List once

and the Dean’s List

multiple times, and has

served in leadership

roles,

including

Student

Senate

President, SecretaryTreasurer, and now

Senator. She has also

represented WETCC at AIHEC conventions, earning

recognition as High Spirit Point Woman for Hand

Games and helping her team secure second place in

2025.

Looking ahead, Deidra plans to decrease her

credit load next term as she prepares to welcome a

baby girl this spring. “I chose WETCC to learn about

my cultural heritage—something I never had growing up. This college has given me that opportunity

and the resources to prepare for my future.” While

her long-term plans are still unfolding, Deidra is

grateful for the unwavering support she’s received

and excited for what’s ahead. Her journey is a testament to resilience, community, and the power of education.

The White Earth Land Recovery Project

(WELRP) is pleased to announce it has been awarded

$10,000 through the Arts Midwest Gig Fund to support Indigenous artists participating in the 2026

Great Lakes Indigenous Farming Conference. This

funding will directly honor artists for their time and

knowledge while covering lodging, meals, and related costs that allow them to fully engage in the conference.

“This funding allows us to honor Indigenous

artists in a meaningful way,” said Margaret Rousu,

Executive Director of the White Earth Land

Recovery Project. “Artists are culture bearers. Their

teachings connect generations and remind us that

food sovereignty, land stewardship, and the arts are

deeply intertwined. By investing in artists, we are

investing in the strength and continuity of our communities.”

WELRP receives Arts Midwest Gig Fund Award to

support Indigenous Artists at Regional Conference

Held annually, the Great Lakes Indigenous

Farming Conference brings together Indigenous

farmers, knowledge keepers, artists, youth, elders,

and community members from across the region.

Scheduled for March 5–8, at Sugar Lake Lodge in

Cohasset, Minn., the conference serves as a vital

gathering space to celebrate traditional foodways,

land stewardship, and cultural revitalization.

Through workshops, demonstrations, and hands-on

learning opportunities, participants strengthen connections between land, food, art, and Indigenous

identity.

The Arts Midwest Gig Fund award will support

the participation of 10 Indigenous artists who will

share their talents through demonstrations, workshops, and cultural teachings. These artists represent

Anishinaabe and Lakota communities from White

Earth, Red Lake, and beyond, and work across disciplines including beadwork, porcupine quillwork,

birchbark arts, clay, moccasin making, storytelling,

painting, jewelry, traditional foods, and Indigenous

plant medicines. Their presence enriches the conference experience while ensuring artists are properly

compensated and supported for the cultural knowledge they carry.

In addition to artist honorariums, the project

budget reflects WELRP’s broader commitment to

accessibility and equity. Conference registration,

travel support, and lodging are structured to reduce

barriers for participation, particularly for artists and

community members from underserved and historically marginalized communities. WELRP will also

contribute matching funds to ensure the full scope of

the project is supported.

Founded with the mission to recover the original

land base of the White Earth Indian Reservation

while preserving traditional practices of sound land

stewardship, language fluency, and cultural heritage,

WELRP has long centered Indigenous-led solutions

and community-based knowledge. The integration of

artists into the Great Lakes Indigenous Farming

Conference reflects this mission by elevating creativity as an essential component of cultural resilience

and community well-being.

The White Earth Land Recovery Project extends

its gratitude to Arts Midwest for recognizing the

importance of Indigenous artists and for supporting

opportunities that honor cultural expression, intergenerational learning, and community connection

across the Great Lakes region.

Reminder from White Earth

Natural Resources

Remove all waste from the ice and keep in mind it’s illegal

to leave litter on the ice. Minnesota’s “Keep It Clean” law

— which makes it illegal to place garbage and waste on or

under the ice of Minnesota’s lakes and rivers — was

signed into law in May 2023.

Examples of covered waste include garbage, cigarette

filters, litter, fireworks debris, dead animals, sewage,

and other waste left outside your shelter, vehicle, or

container on the ice.

Wednesday, January 7, 2026

Event Hosted by the White Earth Constitution Reform Delegates

Anishinaabeg Today

Winter foot care tips for people with diabetes

1. Inspect Feet Daily

Use a mirror or ask for help to check for cuts,

blisters, redness, or swelling. Cold weather can mask

symptoms, so daily checks are crucial.

2. Keep Feet Warm, Not Hot

Wear thermal socks, but avoid heating pads or hot

water bottles—diabetic neuropathy can reduce sensation, increasing burn risk.

3. Moisturize, But Not Between Toes

Apply lotion to prevent cracking, but skip the

spaces between toes to avoid fungal infections.

4. Choose Proper Footwear

Insulated, waterproof shoes with a wide toe box

help prevent pressure points and keep feet dry and

warm.

5. Avoid Walking Barefoot

Even indoors, wear slippers or socks with grips to

prevent injury and maintain warmth.

6. Trim Nails Carefully

Cut straight across to avoid ingrown toenails,

which can become infected more easily in winter.

7. Change Wet Socks Immediately

Dampness from snow or sweat can lead to fungal

infections and cold-related skin issues.

8. Exfoliate Gently

Use a pumice stone or gentle scrub to remove

dead skin and prevent painful cracks.

9. Stay Active

Movement improves circulation, which is especially important in cold weather when blood flow to

extremities decreases.

Hydrate and Eat Well

Good nutrition and hydration support skin health

and circulation, both vital for foot care.

Best Sock Materials for Diabetics

1. Bamboo Fiber

• Naturally antimicrobial and moisture-wicking

• Soft/breathable, reducing friction and irritation

2. Merino Wool

• Excellent at regulating temperature

• Wicks moisture away while keeping feet warm

in winter

3. Acrylic Blends

• Durable and moisture-wicking

• Often blended with other fibers for added softness and stretch

4. Cotton (with caution)

• Only if blended with moisture-wicking fibers

• Pure cotton retains moisture, which can increase

infection risk

5. Spandex or Elastane (in small amounts)

• Provides gentle stretch without constriction

• Helps socks stay in place without tight bands

Key Features to Look For

Seamless toes – Prevents rubbing and blisters

Non-binding tops – Avoids restricting circulation

Padded soles – Adds cushioning and reduces

pressure

Moisture-wicking – Keeps feet dry to prevent

fungal infections

Antimicrobial properties – Helps reduce odor

and infection risk

Submitted by:

White Earth Nation Tribal Public Health

Anishinaabeg Today

New Year’s Sobriety Powwow features moccasin games

Photo by Brent Murray

Moccasin games were featured at the New Year’s Sobriety Powwow at the Naytahwaush Complex. The

event was hosted and sponsored by Brent Murray. There were three teams that participated - a team from

White Earth, a team from Red Lake, and a team from East Lake. The games were long and brutal with East

Lake (ezigaag) and Red Lake ending up in final match with Red Lake winning the game! A prize of $500

was awarded, winner take all!

Wednesday, January 7, 2026

NOTICE TO ALL TRIBAL LAND LESSEES,

ASSIGNEES, AND ANY OR ALL OTHERS

UTILIZING TRIBAL LANDS

The White Earth Land Office will be conducting periodic

inspections of all sites, assignments, leases and contracts for

any compliance issues on Tribal Land.

Please call to update your contact information with our office

as soon as possible. If you have any questions regarding compliance inspections or need to update your information, you may

contact the White Earth Land Office at 218-983-4650.

Wednesday, January 7, 2026

Anishinaabeg Today

Submitted photo

Lisa Braun with Paul’s Passion teamed up with Tim Rindahl at the White Earth Food

Shelf, and together delivered a donation of 2,000 pounds of Swheat Scoop litter to be

shared across nine reservation communities. Families most in need now have one less

worry when caring for their pets.

An unexpected gift

Swheat Scoop donation helps reservation cats

By Lisa Braun

Paul’s Passion

Sometimes the most meaningful support arrives when you least expect it. Paul’s

Passion recently received a surprise donation of cat litter from Swheat Scoop, thanks

to Rob—who remembered our rescue and

reached out. His thoughtfulness set into

motion a chain of collaboration that will

benefit families and pets across the White

Earth Reservation.

As soon as we learned of the donation,

our team sprang into action. We scheduled

pick-up and began brainstorming how best

to distribute such a gift. By chance, we

crossed paths with Tim Rindahl, who runs

the White Earth Food Shelf, and the idea to

join forces quickly took shape. Together,

we realized that this donation could reach

far beyond our immediate circle.

Paul’s Passion picked up and delivered

over 2,000 pounds of Swheat Scoop kitty

litter to the food shelf. From there, the litter

will be distributed across nine communities

on the reservation, ensuring that households most in need will be getting access.

For many families, caring for their pets is a

source of comfort and companionship, and

this donation helps ease the burden of providing for them.

This collaboration is a reminder of

what’s possible when community organizations work hand-in-hand. A simple act of

kindness, being thought of...turned into a

wide-reaching effort that will support both

people and pets across the reservation.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to

Swheat Scoop, to Rob for hooking us up,

and to Tim and the White Earth Food Shelf

for their partnership. Together, we’ve

shown that compassion multiplies when

shared.

You can reach the newspaper at today@whiteearth-nsn.gov or 218-935-3569

NEWE Community Council toy giveaway

Submitted photo

The Northeast White Earth Community Council held their Toy Giveaway on Dec.

18 at the White Earth Family Office in Cass Lake, Minn. In addition to the toys,

community members were treated to popcorn and coffee.

Anishinaabeg Today

White Earth Food Shelf

January 2026 Delivery Schedule

Wednesday, January 7, 2026

Anishinaabeg Today

Retiring Dan Gunderson on decades covering

Native American tribes in northwest Minnesota

Minnesota Public Radio / Minnesota Now

With Nina Moini, Leah Lemm and Dan Gunderson

MPR News reporter Dan Gunderson recently

retired. He spent decades reporting Native American

stories in the Fargo-Moorhead region.

Dan has highlighted many community members

from the White Earth Nation, including artists, tribal

leaders and those working on land return efforts. He

was at Standing Rock, reporting from the camp during

the 2016 pipeline standoff in North Dakota. He also

covered many other stories including boarding school

history, wild rice harvests and cultural reclamation.

Native News editor Leah Lemm spoke with Dan

Gunderson about his reporting on tribal nations as a

non-Native journalist.

Audio transcript

NINA MOINI: Well, reporter Dan Gunderson

retires this week. He spent decades reporting Native

American stories in the Fargo-Moorhead region. Dan

has highlighted many community members from the

White Earth Nation, including artists, tribal leaders,

and those working on land return efforts. He was at

Standing Rock, reporting from the camp during the

2016 pipeline standoff in North Dakota. And he covered many other stories, including boarding school

history, wild rice harvests, and cultural reclamation,

including this story about traditional ways of Ojibwe

people in Minnesota.

Native News editor Leah Lemm spoke with Dan

Gunderson about his reporting on tribal nations as a

non-Native journalist. He reflects on the necessary

and long-term work of building trust.

LEAH LEMM: Can you tell me a bit about the

start of your career and how you got into chatting with

Native people?

DAN GUNDERSON: I was looking around my

geographic area that I cover, and I have the largest

reservation in the state in my area. And I'm thinking,

nobody's covering this. So that was really the start of

it, was just thinking, these are voices that are not being

heard. My job is to get out there and try to give them

an opportunity to be heard.

LEAH LEMM: So you started in 1987. When

was that realization of that need to expand over to

White Earth?

DAN GUNDERSON: I would say probably

around 1990 is when I started doing more of that. And

I mean, I have to say, it took several years. There was

a lot of going there and being frustrated, and finding

people didn't trust outsiders and didn't want to talk to

me. And there were many times I went to White Earth

and came back without a story. But eventually I

Photo by Evan Frost | MPR News file

MPR reporter Dan Gunderson.

earned some trust, enough to get people to talk to me.

LEAN LEMM: Can you tell me a bit about leadership, like MPR leadership at that time, and how supportive they were of your going out to White Earth

and not coming back with a story? How supportive

were they?

DAN GUNDERSON: Well, initially, when I told

my editor I wanted to start doing stories in Indian

Country, my editor said, well, if anyone’s going to do

it, it’ll be you, so go for it. And there was an understanding that those stories would take longer and be

more challenging. And there was occasionally pushback, like, that’s taking a long time to get that story,

kind of thing. But no one ever said, stop doing it.

LEAH LEMM: How did you do it?

DAN GUNDERSON: I'm a persistent person.

[LAUGHS] Not easily deterred. And so I just kept

going back until I began to make some inroads with

people, and the more people-- I think a couple of people, really, in a sense, almost took me under their wing

and thought, maybe this guy's OK. George Fairbanks

was one. And he was influential in the White Earth

community.

And then Andy Favorite was, at the time, the tribal historian, and I would go sit in Andy’s office and he

would lecture me for hours. And he educated me a lot.

He taught me a lot of history. Of course, I grew up and

went to school in Minnesota. I didn’t learn the real history, right? So I had to learn all of that in order to

understand, and be able to ask the right questions and

have the right perspective.

LEAH LEMM: What did you find worked for

you to make a connection, and be able to do effective

reporting in Indian Country and particularly White

See Gunderson Page 18

Ice safety is important this time of year

What should you do if you fall through the ice?

First, try not to panic. This may be easier said than

done, unless you have worked out a survival plan in

advance. Read through these steps and be prepared.

1. Don’t remove your winter clothing. Heavy

clothes won’t drag you down, but instead can trap air

to provide warmth and flotation. This is especially

true with a snowmobile suit.

2. Turn toward the direction you came. That’s

probably the strongest ice.

3. Place your hands and arms on the unbroken

surface. This is where a pair of nails, sharpened screwdrivers or ice picks come in handy in providing the

extra traction you need to pull yourself up onto the ice.

4. Kick your feet and dig in your ice picks to

work your way back onto the solid ice. If your clothes

have trapped a lot of water, you may have to lift yourself partially out of the water on your elbows to let the

water drain before starting forward.

5. Lie flat on the ice once you are out and roll

away from the hole to keep your weight spread out.

This may help prevent you from breaking through

again.

6. Get to a warm, dry, sheltered area and re-warm

yourself immediately. In moderate to severe cases of

cold water hypothermia, you must seek medical attention. Cold blood trapped in your extremities can come

rushing back to your heart after you begin to re-warm.

The shock of the chilled blood may cause ventricular

fibrillation leading to a heart attack and death!

Anishinaabeg Today

Wednesday, January 7, 2026

Anishinaabeg Today

Wednesday, January 7, 2026

Highlights of the New Year’s Sobriety Powwow

Photos by Gary W. Padrta

More than 230 dancers and 13 drums gathered for the New Year’s Sobriety Powwow Dec. 31-Jan.1 at the Naytahwaush

Complex. The event featured a Moccasin Tournament and many specials. The new Sobriety Powwow royalty are Ayden

Zornes (Brave) and Gabriella Lague (Princess).

Wednesday, January 7, 2026

Anishinaabeg Today

Photo by Shannon Eck

Elder shares his recovery journey

By Sherald Hanks

My drinking problem was intense from

the start, blackouts were normal, without a

blackout I was not successful. I worked at

committing suicide via the bottle. After 10

years of failure, I tried sober life.

I went from attempted suicide to

attempted life! I had an epiphany, an

answer to my nightmares, my lost loved

one were with me - not lost. I started working with others that needed a direction,

within my first year of sobriety. Working in

a program structured toward sobriety certainly helped and those that I helped. I

worked 40 years in recovery programs,

spoke at countless events, and traveled

countless miles to speak or council those in

need. This is and extremely short article

about by journey of enlightenment and

recovery but I will tell in more detail if

asked, so ask...

I am extremely proud of my sobriety,

which I never thought would happen. I will

be more than happy to share my journey

and accomplishments in my recovery.

Recovery is possible, I can and will attest to

that. I am currently celebrating my 50+

years of sobriety, a day at a time. Thank

you for your time, feel free to talk to me.

It was a full house at the annual White Earth Elder’s Christmas Party

The

White

Earth

Elder’s

Christmas Party was held Dec. 9

at the Shooting Star Casino.

Almost 450 Elders and caregivers

enjoyed a meal, socialization,

door prizes, and an Ugly Sweater

Contest. The annual event was

hosted by the White Earth Elderly

Nutrition Program.

Photos by Gary W. Padrta

Gunderson from Page 13

Earth?

DAN GUNDERSON: I think the things I learned

reporting in Indian Country that made me a better

journalist was humility, learning to listen, and learning

to go into a situation with the intention of earning the

respect of the people that I was going to be talking to.

I remember one of the first times I went there and

came back without a story, George Fairbanks, he said

to me, white people come here for two reasons. They

come to take something or to fix us. So why are you

here?

And I thought about that for days after that. So

that was an influence on me thinking about, yeah,

here’s the perspective that the people I’m talking to

have of me, right? I need to overcome that. He’s also

a person who said to me, you should come here when

there’s a good story to tell.

LEAH LEMM: Mm-hmm. Did you figure out

your purpose, why you were approaching them, why

you were approaching folks from White Earth?

DAN GUNDERSON: Well, just because I felt

like their voices should be heard. People sometimes

said to me-- in those earlier days, we’d sit down to do

an interview, and they’d be like, why is a white guy

here doing this? And I would say, well, who’s telling

your story? Do you think it’s important for your story

to be heard? And they would usually say, yeah, I think

it is. So here’s an opportunity for you to tell your story.

I guess it was pretty simple for me. I didn’t have

any real agenda or anything. It was just like, these are

voices in my coverage area that are not being heard, so

it's my job to go in and try to tell their stories.

LEAH LEMM: Well, you talked about listening,

demonstrating that you’re listening, and gaining trust.

How do you go about demonstrating good listening

and gaining trust?

DAN GUNDERSON: Sure, I think so. It was

partly learning communication styles. Andy Favorite

taught me a lot about that. I had said something to him

about-- because someone had blown me off for an

interview or something and I was complaining about

it, probably. And he said, if you want people to talk,

you have to learn to listen. And I said, well, of course

I listen. I’m a journalist, right? He said, no, you’re listening to ask your next question. You have to listen to

understand.

And he said, Native people aren’t communicating

the same way people you’re used to talking to are,

Anishinaabeg Today

right? It might be a circular conversation, but it comes

back to the main point. But they want you to know the

history and the background, and you’ve got to listen.

So that was also pretty influential for me, because I

realized he was right. Like a lot of journalists, I was

thinking about my next question as I'm listening.

And so I learned to listen with an open mind.

There's the saying, come with a good heart, and that’s

a nonjudgmental, open approach to listening. So I

think that's something I learned. I also learned to be

patient. Like, I can remember going and sitting under

a tree in the shade and just waiting for someone to

decide they were ready to talk to me.

LEAH LEMM: I was going to ask, then, if there’s

a way that your reporting at White Earth or other tribal

nations has affected you personally beyond your

work.

DAN GUNDERSON: Yeah, I think so. I mean, I

think it’s made me more aware of humility, and the

value that has as a person. I think it’s made me, in general, more patient, and probably more respectful in

general too of people. Like always thinking of other

people's perspective, that everybody has a perspective.

LEAH LEMM: Any other reflections?

DAN GUNDERSON: When I think about all the

people who trusted me with their stories-- and some of

them were really, really painful stories for people to

tell-- and having someone trust you and believe that

you will respect that story, because it’s not my story.

It’s their story. I’m just the person who’s sharing it

with a wider audience. I just would say I just feel really honored to have been accepted in a culture that I

didn’t know anything about or understand.

LEAH LEMM: Well, what would you say to the

next Moorhead reporter?

DAN GUNDERSON: The things I would say to

any young reporter goes back to the fundamentals of

listening and being respectful, and doing your homework, and just making sure you do the best work possible. That’s how you earn respect, I think, is by

always doing your best work. And even if you make a

mistake, well, it will happen, right? You will make

mistakes. This is a fast-moving business. But if people

understand that you’re giving it your best shot every

time, they’re going to, I think, respect that effort.

NINA MOINI: That’s reporter Dan Gunderson

talking with Native News editor Leah Lemm. Dan is

retiring after 38 years with MPR News.

Wednesday, January 7, 2026

Valleyview Commons

Valleyview Commons in Mahnomen has

immediate openings for 1 bedroom units for

persons 62 and older or with a verified disability.

Rent is based on 30% of your adjusted monthly

income calculated per HUD guidelines up to a

contract rent of $615 and includes water, sewer

and garbage.

Tenant is responsible for electric and heat.

For more information contact DW Jones Management.

218-547-3307 or apply at www.dwjonesmanagement.com

In need of septic pumping

If you need your sewer system pumped call the White

Earth Water and Sewer Department at 218-935-6276.

Tribal Enrolled Elder (55 years of age or older) - $25

Tribal Enrolled Member (54 years or younger) - $80

White Earth Business - $115

Non-enrollee (any age) - $185

Courtesy of Minnesota DNR

These recommendations are based on average equipment weight and assume solid, clear ice. You are

responsible for knowing the weight of your vehicle, equipment, and bodies. Temperature, snow cover, currents,

springs and rough fish all affect the relative safety of ice. Ice is seldom the same thickness over a single body

of water; it can be two feet thick in one place and one inch thick a few yards away. Before traveling on ice let

someone know where you are going and when you expect to return, evaluate ice conditions and possible hazards, know your plan of escape and have your safety gear accessible, and measure ice thickness.

Businesses - $225

(You must reside on the White Earth Reservation)

You can reach the Anishinaabeg Today

at 218-935-3569 or email

today@whiteearth-nsn.gov

Wednesday, January 7, 2026

Anishinaabeg Today

White Earth Constitution Reform Delegate Report – January 2026

Boozhoo, Minnesota Chippewa Tribe (MCT)-White

Earth Members,

The White Earth Constitution Reform Delegate Group

continues to share and update all Tribal Members with factbased information. We do not share personal or political

opinions; this is reserved for each tribal member to make.

The topic of January is the development of the

“Transition” from the current Constitution to revise and/or

new constitution.

Within the MCT-Constitution Reform Group, a subcommittee titled Drafting Committee has produced a copy

of a “Temporary Interim Council”.

DRAFT*** TEMPORARY INTERIM COUNCIL ***DRAFT

(To replace the role of the Secretary of the Interior in

Article XII)

The Tribal Executive Committee (TEC) shall authorize

the Interim Council to oversee the constitutional amendments and tribal election processes.

When providing oversight and acting as a liaison (partnership), consider the impact of TEC amendments to the

constitution on fiscal responsibility, the preservation of traditions and culture, sustainability, the rights of citizens,

social justice, and the rights of nature. Consult constituents

before making decisions or offering suggestions related to

amendments to the constitution.

The TEMPORARY Interim Council Representative

shall understand, but not be limited to, the following:

1. The Revised Constitution and Bylaws of the

Minnesota Chippewa Tribe.

2. The roles and responsibilities of the Temporary

Interim Council.

3. The roles and responsibilities of the TEC and the

Reservation Business Committee (RBC)

4. Ordinances and Resolutions, Interpretations

5. Universal Tribal Election Ordinance

PURPOSE:

The Temporary Interim Council shall exercise an oversight and liaison role.

1. To bridge the gap between the TEC and the people.

2. To create a stable and effective intermediary

between the TEC and the community, ensuring that concerns and information flow in both directions.

3. To focus on oversight roles, the constitution, and citizen engagement.

SECTION 1. COMPOSITION

1. The Temporary Interim Council shall comprise three

(3) representatives from each Nation and one alternate.

2. Each band shall determine the manner of how to

select its three (3) representatives and alternates. (appointment, volunteer, elections).

3. Upon the removal of a Temporary Interim Council

representative, the alternate will fill the position.

SECTION 2. THE OVERALL FUNCTION OF

THE INTERIM COUNCIL

1. To oversee amendments and Tribal elections.

(a) To report to the respective Nation about proposed

TEC amendments, resolutions, and ordinances and elections.

(b) To ensure that citizens are formally informed of

proposed amendments to the constitution, related resolutions and ordinances, and the proposed Uniform Tribal

Elections through

1. Amendments to the Constitution, related resolutions, and ordinances are posted publicly (Newspapers,

websites, Facebook, etc.).

2. The written and posted notices that indicate the citizens are given aspecific period to submit comments (i.e.,

two weeks).

3. The document is amended and opened up for

review again before it is finalized.

2. When deemed necessary, research and educate citizens on select topics.

(a) Assist with transparency and citizen inquiries.

(b) Be given access to relevant documents, via subpoena-like power.

SECTION 3. THE TERM OF THIS LIMITEDTERM POSITION.

The Temporary Interim Council shall serve during the

interim period from when the Secretary of the Interior is

removed from Article XII AMENDMENT until after the

Universal Tribal Election on the New Governing Structure

is certified/approved.

SECTION 4 REMOVAL FROM POSITION

1. Any Temporary Interim Council is subject to

Removal if they are

(a) Unable to fulfill role due to mental or physical illness

(b) Failure to conduct Roles and Responsibilities

Ethics, and Conflict of Interest

(d) Unable to complete their term and make a personal decision to leave their position voluntarily.

2. Grounds and procedures for Removal or recall are

outlined in the REMOVAL AND VACANCIES PROCEDURES.

SECTION 5. COMPENSATION

The Temporary Interim Council representatives shall

be given reasonable compensation for their position. Where

the money comes from is TBD.

SECTION 6. MEETINGS

To facilitate meetings, the Temporary Interim Council

shall select a Spokesperson, a Co-spokesperson, and a secretary. The Spokesperson shall preside over meetings of the

Interim Council. The Co-spokesperson shall preside over

meetings in the Spokesperson's absence. The Secretary

shall take minutes and record votes. The Secretary shall

transmit the minutes to their respective Nation.

SECTION 7. SCHEDULED MEETINGS

1. The Temporary Interim Council shall hold quarterly

meetings.

2. The meetings shall be informational and responsive

to citizens’ questions and concerns.

SECTION 8. SPECIAL MEETINGS

1. The Temporary Interim Council may call for Special

Meetings

2. The meetings shall be informational and responsive

to citizens’ questions and concerns.

SECTION 9. OPEN MEETINGS

All meetings of the Temporary Interim Council shall

be open to citizens.

Role of the Temporary Interim Council

OVERSIGHT OF THE CONSTITUTIONAL

AMENDMENT AND THE RELATED RESOLUTION,

AND ORDINANCES PROPOSED BY THE TEC

1. Communicate information between the TEC and

their respective Nation.

2. Maintaining a thorough knowledge of the activities

of the TEC and their impact on the Nations.

3. Provide regular reports to their respective Nation.

4. To inform their respective Nation about proposed

amendments to the constitution, resolutions, and ordinances.

5. Attend TEC meetings, TEC sub-committees, and

RBC meetings.

(a) Quarterly and special TEC meetings

(b) Subcommittee meetings

1. Administrative

2. Education

3. Finance, if not closed

4. Human Services

Elections

1. Monitor and educate the citizens, including but not

limited to the following:

(a) The eligible voters' list

(b) The registered voter list

days of the elections

(d) All time limits

(e) Activity at the polling sites

(f) What documents go into the voting packet

(g) Date by which the citizens can submit challenges

to the election process

(h) Counting of the ballots

Open Transparent Meetings

Responsibilities of the Spokesperson, CoSpokesperson, and Secretary of the Interim Council

(Selected by the tribal representatives of the Temporary

Interim Council)

1. SPOKESPERSON

(a) Preparing for the meeting:

1. Prepare an agenda.

2. Post the agenda for the meeting.

3. Send a reminder to all attendees before the meeting, if necessary.

4. Arrange a meeting room and prepare it accordingly.

5. Schedule a Zoom meeting and post the details.

6. Ensure presentations, electronics, and other

devices are set up and tested beforehand.

7. Prepare any food or drinks needed for the meeting.

8. At the start of the meeting, explain the ground

rules to make attendees aware of expectations.

9. The meeting will start on time.

10. Participants must treat one another with respect.

(b) During the meeting, review the meeting structure

and rules, follow the agenda, maintain order, and ensure

everyone is involved. Those who wish to speak will be

allowed to do so within a 15-20 minute time limit. If the

meeting goes off-topic, it is the Spokesperson’s responsibility to guide the conversation back to the agenda and stick

within the time constraints of the meeting.

together the points discussed and reach a decision. If there

are different points of view, summarize each. Before moving to the following agenda item, the Spokesperson should

clarify and confirm the conclusions.

(d) The Spokesperson may delegate any of the above

duties to the Co-spokesperson.

2. Co-Spokesperson

(a) Assist the Spokesperson with preparing for a

meeting, and assume any responsibilities the Spokesperson

delegates, and ensure that the meetings run smoothly.

(b)Be attentive to the Chat and “raised hands” if there

is a Zoom meeting.

3. SECRETARY

(a) Take the minutes of the meeting.

(b) Record the participants' discussion and any decisions reached.

and who will be responsible for completing the activity.

(d) Attached to the minutes are any documents discussed or presented during the meeting.

See Report Page 26

Anishinaabeg Today

Wednesday, January 7, 2027

Anishinaabeg Today

Adam Webster

Obituaries

Adam Webster, 24, died on Dec. 14, 2025.

Adam Webster was born on March 21, 2001, in Minneapolis to Tanya Eischens and

Robert Webster. He was raised between the Minneapolis and Ponsford communities, both

of which helped shape his life. In recent times, he had returned to the White Earth

Reservation, where he was beginning a new chapter filled with reflection and hope.

Adam attended several schools before earning his GED. He

was hardworking and driven, often pursuing various ventures and

opportunities throughout his life.

Family was deeply important to Adam. He shared close bonds

with his siblings and cousins, many of whom were also his closest

friends. He was a devoted and loving father to his daughter,

Aubrianna, and looked forward with great anticipation to the birth

of his son, expected in March 2026. He found special joy in spending time with his young nephews, Waawaate and Legend, who held

a meaningful place in his heart.

Adam cherished being surrounded by those he loved, whether

spending time with his close cousin, Chuck, or with his many

friends, including Erika Bellanger. He will be remembered for the pride he held for his

loved ones, his strong presence, and the warmth he brought wherever he went.

Adam is survived by his mother, Tanya Eischens; daughter, Aubrianna Webster; sisters, Nakita (Shaun) Eischens and Kianna Eischens; brothers, Matthew (Makayla) Webster

and Edward Moran Jr.; and his bonus family: Amanda (Luis) Eischens, Alisha Bloom,

Xzania, Analecia, and Luis Jr. He also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles,

cousins, and friends who became family.

He was preceded in death by his father, Robert Webster; grandparents, Eugene and

Florence Eischens; uncle, David Eischens; and cousins, Frank Ortley and Tammara

Eischens.

Adam’s time with us was brief, but the love he shared lives on—through his daughter,

the son he eagerly awaited, and the memories held by all who loved him. As he begins his

journey, may he walk in peace, guided by love, prayer, and those who came before him,

and may those left behind find comfort in knowing he is never far, carried in heart, memory, and spirit.

All-night wake services began on Dec. 18 and continued until the time of a traditional

service held Dec. 19, both at the old Pine Point School.

Interment: St. Theodores Catholic Cemetery at a later date.

Arrangements: Anderson Family Funeral Home of Mahnomen.

Online: www.andersonfamilyfh.com

Albert Francis Estey

Albert F. Estey, 79, lifelong resident of Kelly Lake, Minn., died Dec. 19, 2025, at

Aspirus St. Luke’s Hospital in Duluth, Minn. He was born May 28, 1946, to William and

Elvina (Norris) Estey in White Earth. Albert was employed with the City of Hibbing,

Minn., as an equipment operator. He was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed hunting and

fishing with his family over the years. He was an avid racing fan who only missed two

race nights in his entire lifespan. He also really enjoyed attending

his grandchildren’s sporting events.

Albert had been a member of AA for the past 47 years. This

organization and gatherings were an enormous part of his life. He

touched the hearts and helped countless individuals overcome

addiction through his tireless dedication at the ALANO Club in

Hibbing. Albert’s family would also like everyone to know that he

gave the precious gift of donation with Life Source so others could

benefit from the gift of tissue donation.

He is survived by his children: Michael Estey of Kelly Lake,

Kelly (Wendy) Estey of Kelly Lake, Lisa (Jeff) Estey-Swick of

Pengilly, Minn., and Carrie (Tommy) Estey-Dix of Shoreview,

Minn.; siblings: Dennis (Sharon) Estey of Hibbing, Yvonne Estey of Ogema, and Beverly

Hills of Waubun; grandchildren: Steven (Harley) Estey, Zach (Kendra Tidemann) Wohlers,

Skeeter Estey, Samantha Olsen, Mack (Maddi Kubena) Estey, Dillon (Diana Clement)

Samsa, Shay Rabbers, and CJ Estey-Dix; 10 great-grandchildren; and many nieces,

nephews, great-nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, William and Elvina; brother, William Estey;

and brother-in-law, Norman Hills.

Funeral services for Albert where held Dec. 26 at the Dougherty Funeral Home of

Hibbing, with Rev. Dave Aho officiating. Memorials are preferred to the ALANO CLUB,

3725 1st Avenue, Hibbing, MN 55746.

Arrangements: Dougherty Funeral Home of Hibbing.

Online: www.doughertyofhibbing.com.

Wednesday, January 7, 2026

Shirley Lenore Hagen (nee Donnell)

Shirley Lenore Hagen (née Donnell), 90, of Blaine, Minn., passed away peacefully on

Dec. 5, 2025.

Shirley was born on Nov. 17, 1935, in Mahnomen to Frances Donnell and grew up

with a deep love for family, faith, and community. She married the love of her life, Leo

Hagen, in 1956, and together they shared 62 wonderful years filled

with laughter and love.

Shirley was known for her warmth, generous spirit, and for

making everyone around her feel welcome. She touched the lives

of countless students and colleagues during her 20 years working

as the lunch lady at Eisenhower Elementary in the AnokaHennepin School District, always spreading kindness and friendliness. She also volunteered with the SGT John Rice VFW Post 6316

Auxiliary in Blaine, where she helped serve food at funeral luncheons and holiday events. Shirley and Leo were also longtime

members and volunteers with the Lake Itasca Region Pioneer

Farmers and were named king and queen of their annual event in

2018.

She is survived by her sister, Carolyn Blaser (David) of Sibley, N.D.; brother, Earl

Donnell of McGregor, Minn.; daughter, Joanne Hoska (Mike) of Lexington, Minn.; sons,

Durk (Sandra) of Andover, Minn., and Scott of Blaine; five grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; along with many nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends who will forever hold

her memory in their hearts.

She is preceded in death by husband, Leo; mother, Frances Donnell (née Kirsch);

grandson, Joe Hagen; sister, Darlene Paul; and brother, Dick Donnell.

Memorial services were held Dec. 19 at Gearhart Funeral Home in Coon Rapids,

Minn.

Interment: Morningside Memorial Gardens.

Arrangements: Dignity Memorial

Online: www.dignitymemorial.com

Herbert Eugene Libby Jr.

Herbert Eugene Libby Jr., Band member of the White Earth Nation, of the Bear Clan,

85, of Cass Lake, Minn., began his spiritual journey on Dec. 21, 2025, at his home in Cass

Lake. He was born on Sept. 6, 1940, in White Earth, the son of Herbert Sr. and Thelma

(Thompson) Libby.

For the past 10 years, Herbert lived in Cass Lake with his daughter, Sherri and her

family after the passing of his wife, Sandra. He enjoyed going to the casino and playing

cards. He loved spending time with his grandchildren and greatgrandchildren. Herbert specialized in roofing and sheet rocking in

his career. He was also a Golden Glove champion in boxing. The

greatest peace he had was sitting in the yard in his office listening

to music, drinking his BC’s and smoking Pezi.

The family that Herbert joins again are his grandparents,

George Libby Sr. and Mary Parker Libby; parents, Herbert Sr. and

Thelma; first wife, Darlene McDougall; second wife, Sandra Jo

(Norcross) Libby; siblings: Richard Libby, Robert Libby Sr.,

George Libby Sr., Phyllis Libby, Janice Persian, Lola Dodd, Mary

Sue Shaugabay, infant sisters, Carolyn and Gloria Libby; and

beloved cousin, Jack Parker.

Those he leaves behind to cherish his memory are his daughters, Sherri (Mick)

Newago and Julie (special friend Eugene Anderson) Lufkins; sons: Daniel Lee Libby,

Donald Libby Sr. and Mark (Chase Baker) Libby; brothers: James (Beverly) Libby Sr.,

William Ike Libby Sr., Jerry Lee Libby, and Thomas Libby Sr.; step sons, John and Paul

Larson; grandchildren: Joey Libby, Leroy Pacheco, Ashley Pacheco, Jordan Newago, Siera

Pacheco, Marcella Libby, and Donnie Libby Jr.; and great grandchildren: Nathan Libby,

Analiya Pacheco, Ariel Pacheco, Lorenzo Lavato, Omari Reeves, Sonny “Beebs” Reeves,

Jordan Newago Jr., Irie Libby, Ollie Pacheco, and Liam Pacheco.

A traditional service was held at Dec. 26 at the White Earth Community Center. An

overnight wake followed the service until the Journey song was played on Dec. 27. Allen

Hardy was the spiritual advisor.

Pallbearers were Jim Libby, Jerry Libby, Mark Libby, Mark Foster, John Larson, Tom

Libby Jr. and Bill Losh. Honorary pallbearers were Jordan Newago, Leroy Pacheco,

Ashley Pacheco, Sierra Pacheco, Marcella Libby, Donnie Libby Jr., Raymond Clark,

Keagon Goodman, Tacia Beauchamp, Laura Larson, Brandon Larson, Jess Larson, Anton

Larson, Mick Larson, along with 25 other grandchildren.

Interment: Calvary Cemetery in White Earth in the spring.

Arrangements: Northern Peace Funeral Home of Walker, Minn.

Online: www.northernpeace.com

Wednesday, January 7, 2026

Nicholas “Nick” Lee Buck

Anishinaabeg Today

Obituaries

Nicholas “Nick” Lee Buck, 44, of Mahnomen, passed away Dec. 5, 2025, at his home

surrounded by family and under the care of HIA Hospice.

Nick was born July 13, 1981, to Merton R. “Butch” and Patricia “Patti” (Vizenor)

Buck. He grew up on the shores of Ice Cracking Lake near Ponsford. When his parents

divorced, Nick chose to live with his dad until he completed his schooling in Detroit Lakes,

Minn. He then began working in produce at County Market then

Central Market for over eight years.

Nick moved to Mahnomen in 2009 and worked for

Bruggeman’s Super Valu as produce manager before beginning at

Auto Value. He enjoyed his job until COVID 19, and that is when

his health started to fail. Nick was diagnosed with Stage IV throat

cancer in early 2024. He underwent radiation and chemo treatments until going on Hospice in October 2025.

Nick enjoyed the outdoors: hunting, fishing, and searching for

mushrooms. He especially enjoyed sitting around a campfire with

his many friends. In recent years, he found a love for gardening,

planting flowers (some he grew from seeds), shrubs and trees.

Some of his other hobbies were drawing, dabbling in the stock market, watching world and

local news and keeping an eye on wildlife from the numerous trail cameras near his house.

Nick was the proud parent of his daughter, Brooklynn Buck of Fargo, N.D., and his

son, Nicholas D. Buck of Mahnomen.

Nick is survived by his parents, Patti (Mike) Vizenor and Merton R. “Butch” Buck;

daughter, Brook Buck; son, Nicholas D. Buck; brother, Brian (Ashley) Buck; sister, Jana

Buck; grandmother, Pauline Vizenor; and nieces and nephews: Hannah, Daniel, Emry and

Aiden.

He was preceded in death by his maternal grandfather, Don Vizenor; paternal grandparents, Joan Sullivan and Merton H. Buck; uncles: Daniel Buck, Michael Buck, and

Douglas Buck; aunty, Judy Buck; cousin, Adam Savaugeau; and many dear friends.

Blessed be the memory of Nicholas L. Buck.

A memorial service was held Dec. 11 at Anderson Family Funeral Home in

Mahnomen.

Arrangements: Anderson Family Funeral Home of Mahnomen.

Online: www.andersonfamilyfh.com

Leonard A. Smith

Leonard A. Smith, 88, of White Earth, died Dec. 24, 2025, at his home.

Leonard Allen, affectionately known by many as Honeycutt, was born Sept. 11, 1937,

in White Earth, the 4th child of John Henry and Evelyn (Carl) Smith. Growing up,

Honeycutt attended White Earth Mission School and spent most of his childhood in the

Detroit Lakes, Minn., area. He met the love of his life, Mary Bevins, and the two were

united in marriage on Nov. 5, 1971, in South Dakota. They moved

to White Earth to make their home and raise their family.

Over the years, Honeycutt worked as a roofer. He worked for

many years with his uncles and then with his sons, Tim and Mike,

under the name Red Roofers and Sons. Leonard retired at age 69

after tearing off his last roof!

He enjoyed hunting, cutting wood, going to the casino and his

scratchies! Most of all, Honeycutt loved family gatherings, playing cards and poker at birthday parties and on holidays. He treasured the time spent with his children and all his grandchildren.

He loved each and every one of them but had a unique bond with

Cheyenne and Jarred.

Leonard is survived by his wife of 54 years, Mary, of White Earth; children: Karen

(Doug Statley) Manypenny of Bagley, Minn., Pauline Manypenny of White Earth, Donna

Manypenny of White Earth, Diane (Ronald) Chilton of Strawberry Lake, Sherri Bevins of

White Earth, Michael Smith of White Earth, Timothy (Lori) Smith of White Earth, and

Cheyenne Manypenny also of White Earth; numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren; one great-great granddaughter; sister, Edith Chaberlain of Dearborn Heights, Mich.;

and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; granddaughters, Haley Rayne Smith and

Rylee Ann Jackson; brothers, Carl Smith and Dennis Smith; and sisters: Connie Bevins,

Janice Morley, Patsy Roy, Evelyn “Diddies” Cox, and Phyllis Torgerson.

Blessed be the memory of Leonard Allen “Honeycutt” Smith.

A visitation and ceremony began Jan. 5 and continued until the time of the funeral service on Jan. 6, both held at the White Earth Community Center

Interment: Calvary Cemetery in White Earth in the spring.

Arrangements: Anderson Family Funeral Home of Mahnomen.

Online: www.andersonfamilyfh.com

Beverly Ann Craig

Beverly Ann Craig, 72, of Ogema, passed away Dec. 15 at Essentia Health St. Mary’s

in Detroit Lakes, Minn., surrounded by her family.

Beverly was born on Jan. 14, 1953, to the late Howard Jackson and Martha (Wilson)

Sanders in White Earth.

Bev spent her days doing her favorite things such as watching TV, bird watching and

making future plans to go camping up north. She loved her children

and grandchildren so much and enjoyed making plans to spend

time with them as much as she could. She adored her sisters; and

appreciated all their help when she needed to go shopping, run

errands or get things done around her apartment. Bev will be greatly missed by her children, sisters and friends.

Bev is survived by her children: Renee Fosmark (Olson),

Chester Retz, Stella Hazelton, David Retz and Tina Retz; sisters:

Patricia (Dan Englund) Clark of Detroit Lakes, Dorothy (Larry)

Zima of Ogema, and Loretta (Pat) Solmon of Ogema; along with

20 grandchildren, whom she adored so much; and many nieces,

nephews, extended family and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Howard and Martha; stepfather, Patrick

Clark; brothers, James and John Clark; nephew, Jimmy Clark; sister, Judy Snoball; and a

daughter, Theresa Richter (Olson)

A private memorial service for family and the Biimaadiiziiwiin apartment residents

was held Dec. 27 at the Biimaadiiziiwiin Apartments in Ogema.

Everyl Jean Fineday

Everyl Fineday, 67, of Ogema, passed away on Dec. 29, 2025, at Essentia Health St.

Mary’s Hospital in Detroit Lakes, Minn., following a courageous battle with cancer.

Everyl Jean Fineday was born on July 10, 1958, in Detroit Lakes, Minn., to George

Sr. and Laura (Butcher) Fineday. She grew up in the Ponsford area and attended school in

Pine Point and Park Rapids, Minn. Following school, Everyl

worked various jobs over the years.

Family was the center of Everyl’s life. She was a proud and

devoted mother and grandmother who cherished every moment

spent with her family. She especially enjoyed cooking meals for

them and was always willing to try new recipes. She spent many

hours caring for her grandchildren and enjoyed time shared with

her siblings and extended family.

Everyl loved the outdoors, particularly fishing, and could often

be found thrift shopping or browsing rummage sales in search of a

good deal. She enjoyed gambling and playing bingo. Trips to

Duluth, Minn., were always a favorite and a place her called her

second home. Known for her strong will, quick wit, and sense of humor, she was always

ready with a joke and a smile. Everyl will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved

her.

Everyl is survived by her children: Georgia “Joe” Davis (Lee), Eugene (Brittney)

Davis, Alex Petite, and Robbie (Alicia) Fineday; siblings: Herbert (Mary) Fineday Sr.,

Nancy (Tim) Fineday, and Judith Fineday; many beloved grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

Everyl was preceded in death by her parents; daughter, Robin Davis; brothers: Lester

“Spud,” Douglas, Gordon Jr., JayCee, Denis, George “Coonie;” and sister, Laurie Hvezda.

A memorial service will be held at Monday, Jan. 5 at Everyl’s Residence.

Arrangements: Anderson Family Funeral Home of Mahnomen.

Online: www.andersonfamilyfh.com

Debra Sargent

Debra Sargent, 72, of Mahnomen, passed away on Dec. 22, 2025, at Sanford Health

Center in Fargo, N.D.

Memorial services will be held at a later date.

Arrangements: Anderson Family Funeral Home of Mahnomen.

Online: www.andersonfamilyfh.com

You can reach the Anishinaabeg Today at

218-935-3569

or email

today@whiteearth-nsn.gov

2026 Election Calendar

Jan. 5 : Last day for a sitting RTC member to give notice of resignation to

file for vacated RTC seat.

Jan. 8: Election Announcement

Jan. 9: 8 a.m. - Opening of period for filing for office

Jan. 20: Close of filing period

Jan. 27: Selection of Election Court of Appeals Judge

(For certification of candidate)

Feb. 9: Deadline for Notice of Certifications to TEC

Feb. 11: Challenge certification or non-certification to MCT by 4:30 p.m.

on the second business day following receipt of certification.

Feb. 12: Deadline for appointment of Election Boards.

Feb. 12: Deadline for appointment of Election Contest Judge and alternate

Election Contest Judge.

Feb. 13: Complete record of all documents related to challenge submit to

Minnesota Chippewa Tribe by 4:30 p.m.

Feb. 13: Answer to challenge from the person whose certification is being

challenged to the MCT by 4:30 p.m.

Feb. 13: Answer to challenge from the person whose certification is

being challenged to the MCT by 4:30 p.m.

Feb. 13: Submit all materials to Tribal Election Court of Appeals at expiration of aforementioned deadlines.

Feb. 17: Deadline for the Decision of certification or non-certification by

Tribal Court of Appeals

Feb. 20: Notice of Primary Election and Posting

Feb. 24: TEC provides ballots for Primary Election

March 30: Deadline to notify MCT on choice of appellate forum

March 31: Primary Election

(Polling place open from 8 a.m. until 8 p.m.)

April 1: General Reservation Election Board certifies Primary Results.

(Prior to 8 p.m.)

April 2: General Reservation Election Board publishes Primary Results.

April 6: Deadline for Request for Recount. (Filed with General Election

Board prior to 5 p.m.)

April 6 Deadline to Post Regular Election Notice without Primary.

April 7: 4:30 p.m. - Deadline for Contest of Primary Election. (Filed with

Reservation Election Judge and Executive Director of the Minnesota

Chippewa Tribe).

April 13: Deadline for Decision on Request for Recount and Results of

Recount, if allowed. (If allowed or 11th or 12th if earlier request)

April 17: Deadline for Decision on Contest

April 20: 4:30 p.m. - Deadline for Appeal to Court of Election Appeals.

Filed with the Executive Director of the Minnesota Chippewa Tribe and with

Reservation Tribunal rendering Decision. (Or within 3 days of decision on

Contest)

April 22: Record of Contest forwarded to Court of Election Appels. (At

least 2 days prior to the hearing date)

April 27: Last Day for Hearing on Appeal. (Hearing within 7 days of

appeal)

May 7: Last Day for Decision on Appeal. (10 days from hearing on appeal).

May 8: Notice of General Election (or earlier if no appeal)

May 8: TEC provides ballots for General Election (or earlier if no appeal)

June 9: General Election

(Polling Place open from 8 a.m. - 8 p.m.)

Anishinaabeg Today

Chairman from Page 3

opened on July 2 in St. Cloud, Minn. This is

only the beginning. As we move forward ahead

of any tribe in Minnesota, we remember that

true growth takes patience.

White Earth Public Transit Building

A groundbreaking ceremony was held this

spring for a new Transit building in Waubun.

This building will house a bus wash bay,

mechanic bays, bus storage, indoor transfer and

passenger waiting area, administrative offices

and dispatch center. Transit looks forward to

serving the people of White Earth and surrounding areas with your transportation needs. The

building is expected to be completed in early or

late fall of 2026.

Severe Thunderstorm Damage

A powerful wind storm swept through the

White Earth Reservation on the evening of June

20, leaving widespread damage in its wake. The

severe thunderstorm brought down trees, disrupted power lines, and left many residents

without electricity—some for days. White Earth

Emergency Management, in partnership with

White Earth Public Safety and White Earth

Conservation, led efforts to assist affected residents. Emergency generators were delivered to

Elders and individuals with medical needs, and

water was provided where service had been disrupted.

Highway 59 Homes

It’s with deep pride and hope for our future

that I share exciting news about a new initiative

that is not only rooted in economic growth, but

in service to our people: Highway 59 Homes.

Wednesday, January 7, 2026

pounds at $6 per pound, totaling $862,824.

These figures not only highlight the economic

significance of the Manoomin harvest but also

underscore the importance of making sure this

valuable food source is accessible to our tribal

membership.

In addition, several major infrastructure

projects were also completed this year at Lower

Rice Lake through a collaborative effort involving several programs. At Ponsford and Bush

Landings, wood corduroy walkways with gravel

overlays were installed, providing improved

access to the water’s edge. Boulders were strategically placed at the start of each walkway to

prevent damage from ATVs and UTVs. Parking

areas were also expanded to improve traffic flow

and accommodate more vehicles. The old channel at Big Bear Landing was reopened after

years of overgrowth, allowing ricers to travel

directly from the parking area to the lake. All

four landings are now equipped with poles that

will support solar-powered lights and navigation

flags.

Ojibwe Language Immersion

As council we are really pushing for our

future Ojibwe Gaawaabaabiganikaag Language

immersion school. Our Language and Culture

Director Rob Tibbetts is making headway. I

talked to him recently at the Naytahwaush

Sobriety Powwow; he said, “Yes, but it will be

very difficult.” So as council I will keep you

updated with his progress. Rob is our Spiritual

Advisor at many of our programs and events

also.

These aren’t just structures—they are fresh

start for young families, a dignified downsizing

option for our elders and a real path to homeownership for those who’ve long waited for the

chance.

White Earth Health System and 638

Process

We are excited our Health Board will be

running our own health clinics on June 1, 2026.

(Self-Governance) of the Indian SelfDetermination and Education Assistance Act

(ISDEAA), Public Law 93-638, which allows

tribes to assume control and management of IHS

health programs, offering greater flexibility than

Title I contracts, though often used alongside it

for broader self-determination in healthcare

delivery. It’s a key legal framework for tribal

self-governance, enabling us as White Earth

Nation (WEN) to operate federal health services

directly, moving from federal administration

(IHS) to our own control.

Wild Rice

We had another record breaking year for

purchasing wild rice! The 2025 manoomin harvest season has been a remarkable year for our

community. White Earth purchased a total of

320,699 pounds of manoomin from ricers, making this the largest year for rice purchasing in

our history. This year, White Earth compensated

ricers with a total payout of $1,747,299. WENR

purchased 176,895 pounds of rice at $5 per

pound, amounting to $884,475, and 143,804

Chairman Michael Fairbanks

This new tribally owned business is more

than a home dealership—it’s a bold step forward

in our mission to create opportunity, stability,

and prosperity for our families. Located in

Waubun, this project is a product of the Nation’s

business arm, Mississippi Pillager LLC, and it

stands as another example of what we can

accomplish when we invest in ourselves.

Highway 59 Homes will offer high-quality,

affordable manufactured homes.

Child Care Building / Library

A brand-new Child Care building located

near the White Earth RBC building opened for

business. This beautiful learning facility will

provide more opportunities for our children in

their early stages of development. These children are our future. In addition to the new building, the library was relocated on site and is

expected open to the community in the summer.

As we enter into 2026, I’d like to thank

everyone for your support and the most successful year ever - 2025! Looking back last year

we dealt with land issues, addressed housing

concerns, moved forward with our Waabigwan

Mashkiki business, expanded our Bison heard,

created Highway 59 Homes, bought land in

Moorhead for the future casino - plus so much

more!

excited

for

Gaawaabaabiganikaag Ishkoning- White Earth

Nation.

Chi-miigwech bizindawiyeg miinawaa

anooj ninda-gikinoo’amaadiwin

Gigawaabamininim naagaj.

Take it easy.

Thank you for listening to me to learn

together.

See you all later.

Wednesday, January 7, 2026

Warren Justin Brown

Anishinaabeg Today

Obituaries

Warren J. Brown, 32, of Pine Poin, died Dec. 24, 2025, in Moorhead, Minn.

Warren Justin Brown, the son of Donovan Brown and Pamela Ellis was born Dec. 2,

1993, in Detroit Lakes, Minn. He grew up in the Pine Point area and attended school at

Circle of Life Academy in White Earth. After graduating from high school with honors in

2012, Warren joined the Minnesota National Guard. He returned to the Pine Point area

where he kept busy working various jobs. Warren has spent the last

few years going between the Fargo-Moorhead area and the White

Earth Reservation. He also enjoyed many trips to South Dakota to

see family and friends.

Warren will be remembered for his great sense of humor, kind

heart and genuine smile. He enjoyed joking and teasing with

friends and family, watching sports on television and his wide

variety of music he listened to. Above all, he loved spending time

with family especially his children. He will be greatly missed by

all who knew and loved him.

Warren is survived by his children and their mothers: Keyian,

Ahnna, Shyleah, and Melissa Brown; parents, Pam Ellis of

Ponsford and Donovan Brown of Bullhead, S.D.; brother, Frank Thompson of Detroit

Lakes; sisters: Ondrea (Michael Croud) Brown, Alexandria (Uriah Liebl) Brown and Talia

Brown all of Ogema, Jeron (Zhaawanong Warren) Butcher of Strawberry Lake, and Jerrial

Ellis also of Ogema; and several aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents; uncle, Deron Elli; and a special cousin,

Shyleah Steele.

Traditional funeral services were held Dec. 30 at the old Pine Point School.

Arrangements: Anderson Famiy Funeral Home of Mahnomen.

Online: www.andersonfamilyfh.com

Marlys “Babe” Bjergo

Marlys “Babe” Bjergo was born on Aug. 13, 1937, and passed away surrounded by her

family at New Brighton (Minn.) Care Center on Nov. 30, 2025.

Babe graduated from Mahnomen High School in 1955. She married her beloved LeRoy

Bjergo in 1957 and they raised six children together. She enjoyed bingo, taking trips to the

casino, and dancing. Babe will be lovingly remembered for her

smile, which she was never without.

Babe was preceded in death by her parents, Al and Verle

Goodwin; husband, LeRoy “Butch” Bjergo; sons, Ralph and Wade

Bjergo; siblings: Albert Jr. “Bunny,” Raymond, Mary Kay and Jay

Goodwin.

Babe will be deeply missed by her children: Desiree Nelson,

Bart (Ramie) Bjergo, Suzette (Paul) Younggren, and Rochelle

(Braun) Woods; grandchildren: Alisha, Jessica, Don, Joseph,

Matthew, Benjamin, Justine, Derek, Kyle, Samantha, Lindsay,

Codey, Kaden, Jesse Jane; great-grandchildren, Elaina, Alexis,

Boston, Donnie, Greg, Dylan, Stevie, Medina, Aspen, Elimina,

Kennedy, Charlotte, Cash, Senad, Cade, Mason, Simon, and Lainey; siblings: Nancy

Pemberton, Bruce (Wanda) Goodwin, David (Shelly) Goodwin, and Mark (Noreen)

Goodwin.

Services were held Dec. 8 at Miller Funeral Home in Fridley, Minn.

In lieu of flowers, consider planting a tree in Babe’s memory.

Arrangements: Miller Funeral Home.

Online: www.millfuneralfridley.com

William “Billy” Scott

William “Billy” Scott, 69, of St. Francis, Minn., died on Dec. 23, 2025, at his home

under the loving care of his family and Moments Hospice.

William Joel Scott was born on Nov. 16, 1956, in Minneapolis, to Alvin and

Jacqueline “Jackie” (Casey) Scott, one of eight children. He grew up in Bejou, where he

attended school. Billy traveled to Wyoming, where he worked in the mines for a short time,

before returning to Minnesota where he worked a variety of jobs.

One of those jobs led him to the Sweep family farm and the love

of his life, Debra Sweep. The two were married on May 3, 1980,

celebrating 45 years of marriage this year. The couple made their

first home in Bejou.

Over the years, the Scott family lived in several communities

including Crookston, Minn., where Billy worked at American

Crystal; Thief River Falls, Minn., where he attended Thief River

Falls AVTI, graduating in Auto Mechanics; Cottage Grove, Minn.,

where he worked for Good Year and later District 833 as a mechanic and bus driver and eventually settling in St Francis, Minn.,

where he worked for Metro Transit as a bus mechanic.

Billy was an avid outdoorsman who loved deer hunting, fishing and golf. He was a talented, self-taught carpenter and made several changes to their home in St. Francis. Friends

and family could always count on him to lend a hand whether it be carpenter work or fixing

vehicles, which he did a lot with his sons. Billy had a couple of favorite nieces, Katie to

whom he lovingly called “Boy” and Nicky whom he provided several printed directions

while she was visiting and he loved to joke with her, especially about his stinky pits! He

looked forward to the horseshoe and later “bags” tournament each year at this sister

LeAnn’s backyard BBQ’s and enjoyed watching football at family gatherings but above all

Billy enjoyed spending time with the people he loved most, his family.

Though Billy loved his children, he was over the moon when he became a papa. He

was blessed with nine grandchildren: Jace, Kiera, Braedon, Evelynn, Charlotte, Cash,

Henry, RaeLynn and Archer, whom he called “Archie.” Many memories were made

between Billy and his grandchildren. Whether it was trips to South Dakota or riding on the

4-wheeler, there was always laughter. A highlight each year was “Boys Weekend,” a cherished tradition of camping, fishing, and tubing with his sons and grandsons. While tubing,

he would always try to get someone to fall off but would always have the look of innocence

on his face that he did not do that on purpose. Billy had a soft spot for his granddaughters

and every year at Christmas the girls would either get a necklace, earrings or a bracelet that

he personally picked out. The grandkids would always come to him to fix things that were

broken and he not only fixed it, but taught them how to fix it as well.

Billy is survived by his loving wife, Debra, of St. Francis; children: Darcy Scott of

LeSuer, Minn., Billy Scott of St. Francis, and Kyle (Sam) Scott of Isanti, Minn.; grandchildren: Jace, Kierra, Braden, Evelyn, Charlotte, Cash, Henry, RaeLynn, and Archer; siblings:

Leo Scott of Bejou, James (Debra) Scott of Frazee, Minn., and LeAnn (Mark) Halland and

Beverly Mazzucco of Crookston; in-laws, Darrell (Nancy) Sweep of Casselton, N.D.,

Karol (Wes) Mills of Byron, Minn., Karen (Richard) Tadych and Kathy (Stacy) Stene both

of Gary, Minn.; several nieces and nephews, many cousins and lots of friends.

Billy was preceded in death by his parents, Alvin and Jacqueline; sister, Kathryn

Hedlund; brothers, Dennis and Wayne Scott; nieces: Karen Quam, Crystal Scott and

Wendy Eggl, and nephew, Jamie Scott.

A funeral service was held Saturday, Jan. 3 at Anderson Family Funeral Home in

Mahnomen.

Interment: Will be held in the spring.

Arrangement: Anderson Family Funeral Home of Mahnomen.

Online: www.andersonfamilyfh.com

Jesse Peter Bardwell

Jesse Peter Bardwell, 62, of Trail, Minn., passed away unexpectedly on Dec. 1, 2025.

Jesse spent much of his life in public service. He worked as a

police officer in Bagley, Clearbrook, and Gonvick, Minn., and

took great pride in his years serving Clearwater County. He later

worked at the Oak Park Heights Prison in Minnesota before returning to a role he truly valued and loved with the Leech Lake

Ambulance Service.

Jesse was a private man, but those who knew him understood

his steady presence, his selflessness, and his unmistakable sense of

humor. He had a talent for making people laugh, whether it was

simple jokes or well-planned pranks, he brought a genuine smile to the people around him.

In his free time, Jesse enjoyed fishing, watching NASCAR, following wrestling and WWE,

and listening to music, especially his favorite singer, John Prime.

Jesse is survived by his wife, Maurittia Bardwell; children: Amanda, Bobbie Kate,

Jacob, Alex, and Ashley; granddaughter, Ailey; siblings: Diane, Warren and Wayne; as well

as numerous nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Russell and Ruby; grandson, Jotham; and many

other family members.

A celebration of Jesse’s life will be held at a later date.

Online: www.ceasefuneralhome.com

The White Earth Nation Primary Election is Tuesday, March 31 - polls will be open from 8 a.m to 8 p.m.

Anishinaabeg Today

WE TRIBAL COURT

TRAFFIC COURT

WE TRIBAL COURT

TRAFFIC COURT

In the Matter of Dustin James Johnson, DOB:

08/28/1993

In the Matter of Dustin James Johnson, DOB:

08/28/1993

Court File No. T2025-00145

Court File No. CO2025-00014

Summons to Appear in Court

YOU ARE HEREBY notified that on January

28, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. a Continued Initial

Hearing on the traffic citation will be held at

the White Earth Tribal Court at 35500 Eagle

View Road Ogema, MN 56569. If you fail to

appear for this hearing, the Court may find you

in default and/or held in contempt of Court.

You may contact Court Administration at (218)

983-3285.

YOU ARE HEREBY notified that on January

28, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. a Continued Initial

Hearing on the conservation citation will be

held at the White Earth Tribal Court at 35500

Eagle View Road Ogema, MN 56569. If you

fail to appear for this hearing, the Court may

find you in default and/or held in contempt of

Court. You may contact Court Administration

at (218) 983-3285.

WE TRIBAL COURT

TRAFFIC COURT

WE TRIBAL COURT

TRAFFIC COURT

Dated: November 18, 2025

In the Matter of Nakoa Neeland, DOB:

09/16/1978

In the Matter of Jameson Lee Jackson Sr.,

DOB: 05/24/1985

Court File No. CO2025-00021

Court File No. T2025-00144

Summons to Appear in Court

YOU ARE HEREBY notified that on January

28, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. a Continued Initial

Hearing on the conservation citation will be

held at the White Earth Tribal Court at 35500

Eagle View Road Ogema, MN 56569. If you

fail to appear for this hearing, the Court may

find you in default and/or held in contempt of

Court. You may contact Court Administration

at (218) 983-3285.

YOU ARE HEREBY notified that on January

28, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. a Continued Initial

Hearing on the traffic citation will be held at

the White Earth Tribal Court at 35500 Eagle

View Road Ogema, MN 56569. If you fail to

appear for this hearing, the Court may find you

in default and/or held in contempt of Court.

You may contact Court Administration at (218)

983-3285.

WE TRIBAL COURT

TRAFFIC COURT

WE TRIBAL COURT

TRAFFIC COURT

Dated: November 18, 2025

In the Matter of Charles Louis Hanks, DOB:

10/17/1975

In the Matter of Austin L. Johnson, DOB:

07/14/1995

Court File No. T2025-00180

Court File No. CO2025-00040

Summons to Appear in Court

YOU ARE HEREBY notified that on January

28, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. an Initial Hearing on

the traffic citation will be held at the White

Earth Tribal Court at 35500 Eagle View Road

Ogema, MN 56569. If you fail to appear for

this hearing, the Court may find you in default

and/or held in contempt of Court. You may

contact Court Administration at (218) 9833285.

Dated: December 18, 2025

Report from Page 19

(e) Within ten (10) days of the meeting, the Secretary shall distribute a draft of

theminutes to the Spokesperson, the CoSpokesperson, and the other Interim Council

representatives for review. Make any suggested revisions. Distribute thecorrected

minutes to their respective Nation.

(f) In the event of an Application for

Removal of one or more of the Temporary

Interim council representatives, the

Secretary shall accept those Applications for

the Removal, in accordance with the

Procedure for Removal of Temporary

Interim council representative, and shall:

1. File-stamp the application with the

Summons to Appear in Court

YOU ARE HEREBY notified that on January

28, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. an Initial Hearing on

the conservation citation will be held at the

White Earth Tribal Court at 35500 Eagle View

Road Ogema, MN 56569. If you fail to appear

for this hearing, the Court may find you in

default and/or held in contempt of Court. You

may contact Court Administration at (218) 9833285.

Dated: November 18, 2025

date and sign it as the person who received it.

2. Distribute the Application to the

Temporary Interim Council member.

3. Generate a file to keep all documents, letters and decisions.

White Earth Members, your voice is

needed in this proposed process. The White

Earth Constitution Reform Delegates is presenting this information for the White Earth

Members to decide.

White Earth will be hosting the MCT

Constitution Reform Convention meeting on

Jan. 16 at the Shooting Star Casino from 9

a.m .- 4 p.m. We hope to hear input from

members attending in-person and virtually.

Wednesday, January 7, 2026

WHITE EARTH TRIBAL COURT

CHILDREN’S COURT

In the Matter of the Welfare of the Children of:

Miquela Lorene Marchaud, and

Brian Ward

Summons of Petition and Hearing Notice

Court File No. CP2025-00017

WHITE EARTH TRIBAL COURT

CHILDREN’S COURT

In the Matter of the Welfare of the Child(ren) of:

Ashley Martin,

Summons of Petition and Hearing Notice

Court File No. CP2023-00026

YOU ARE HEREBY notified that on October

23, 2025, a Suspension of Parental Rights

Petition was filed with the White Earth Tribal

Court regarding your child in file CP202500017. A Pretrial hearing on the matter is

scheduled for January 21, 2026, at 9:00am. You

are asked to contact White Earth Tribal Court

Administration located at the RTC in White

Earth, Minnesota at 218-983-4648. If you fail

to appear for this hearing, the Court may find

you in default and enter an order.

YOU ARE HEREBY notified that on October

21, 2025, a Petition for Suspension of Parental

Rights was filed with the White Earth Tribal

Court regarding your child in file CP202300026. An Admit-Deny Hearing on the matter

is scheduled for February 10, 2026, at 9:45

A.M. You are asked to contact White Earth

Tribal Court Administration located at the RTC

in White Earth, Minnesota at 218-983-4648. If

you fail to appear for this hearing the Court

may find you in default and enter an order.

WHITE EARTH TRIBAL COURT

CHILDREN’S COURT

WHITE EARTH TRIBAL COURT

CHILDREN’S COURT

Dated: December 23, 2025

Joy Parker

Attorney for White Earth Indian Child Welfare

In the Matter of the Welfare of the Child(ren) of:

Troy Sirjord,

Summons of Petition and Hearing Notice

Court File No. CP2024-00019

YOU ARE HEREBY notified that on August

19, 2025, a Petition for Transfer of Permanent

Physical and Legal Custody was filed with the

White Earth Tribal Court regarding your child

in file CP2024-00019. A Pretrial Hearing on

the matter is scheduled for January 30, 2026, at

9:45 A.M. You are asked to contact White Earth

Tribal Court Administration located at the RTC

in White Earth, Minnesota at 218-983-4648. If

you fail to appear for this hearing the Court

may find you in default and enter an order.

Dated: December 30, 2025

Tammy J. Swanson

Attorney for White Earth Indian Child Welfare

Dated: December 30, 2025

Tammy J. Swanson

Attorney for White Earth Indian Child Welfare

In the Matter of the Welfare of the Child(ren) of:

Randall Basswood,

Summons of Petition and Hearing Notice

Court File No. CP2024-00034

YOU ARE HEREBY notified that on

November 5, 2025, a Petition for Long Term

Foster Care was filed with the White Earth

Tribal Court regarding your child in file

CP2024-00034. A continued Admit-Deny

Hearing on the matter is scheduled for January

26, 2026, at 9:30 A.M. You are asked to contact

White Earth Tribal Court Administration located at the RTC in White Earth, Minnesota at

218-983-4648. If you fail to appear for this

hearing the Court may find you in default and

enter an order.

Dated: December 30, 2025

Tammy J. Swanson

Attorney for White Earth Indian Child Welfare

Wednesday, January 7, 2026

Anishinaabeg Today

Wednesday, January 7, 2026

Anishinaabeg Today

Howah Ads

Happy 32nd Birthday

Dad!

Happy 5th Birthday

Cooper Kivi

Love, Liam & Lindy

January 12th

Love, Grandma Helen

Happy 12th Birthday

Happy 19th

Birthday

Molly Kivi

Love, Grandma Helen

Jacob Robert

Littlewolf

From mom, dad,

Jayme, and Julisa

January 4th

You can reach the

Anishinaabeg Today

218-935-3569

WE Urban Office

The White Earth Urban Office is located at 1730

Clifton Place, Suite 100 in Minneapolis.

612-813-1590

Office hours are 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Anishinaabeg Today

ELDER WINTERIZATION

2025-2026

Thank You

From the family of Vernon R. Anderson.

We would like to send a Thank-you to all those who

helped console our hearts in the passing of our dear Vern.

We would like to send a special Thank-you to the White

Earth Home Health nurses for their wonderful care they

provided. We would also like to thank Dr. Johnson and his

staff at IHS.

We appreciate everyone that was able to attend the

funeral, shared kind words and memories of Vern, sent

cards, stopped by to visit, and offering to help in so many

ways. We are grateful for all those who brought food for

the wonderful meal and to those worked in the kitchen. We

are blessed to have so many friends and family that shared

in the joy of knowing Vern. He will forever be in our

hearts and his warm hugs and big smile will always be a

memory we all share.

Sincerely,

Bonnie Anderson and family

Attention New Homeowners

& Existing Homeowners

If you are in need of a Well & Sewer system for

your house/trailer home, you can contact the White

Earth Water & Sewer Department

Requirements to qualify for the grants are:

- White Earth Tribal enrolled member

- Reside on the White Earth Reservation

- Proof of the Land in which you own, Fee land

(Land Deed/ Warranty Deed or Tribal Trust Land

(Tribal Trust agreement)

- Proof of home ownership

- Eighteen (18) years of age or older

- Must have electricity, heat source and interior

plumbing to the home

The St. Benedict’s Calvary Cemetery Committee

would like to extend a big Thank You to everyone that

came together to make our first Toy Bingo a huge success

in December! There were many local businesses/individuals who donated or sponsored the event, people who baked

goods, people who volunteered their time to work the

event and make the event happen, and everyone who came

to play bingo. It was a huge success overall. All funds

raised will directly offset the costs of maintaining/upkeep

and/or expansion of the St. Benedicts Calvary Cemetery.

Be on the lookout for an Easter Bingo!

Thank you tons!

Heather Berry

Our family would like to thank all the people that

helped and supported is with the loss of our family member. We are deeply grateful to all the family and friends

who donated food for the wake and funeral.

We also want to thank all the family and friends in the

Cass Lake area for all their help and support. Thanks to

Allen Hardy for doing the wake and funeral. A special

thanks to Laura Lee who helped is get lodging so our family and friends who traveled from a long distance so they

could attend the wake and funeral.

We know we might have missed thanking someone.

You are all appreciated. We are deeply grateful for your

love and support.

Wednesday, January 7, 2026

INJURED? C

A LL

L L J OE

O E.

Personal Injury, Work Comp., Wrongful

Death, Car Accidents, Medical

Malpractice, Construction Accidents,

Slip & Falls, and Dog Bites

218-736-5673

Family of Darrin “Tony” Fineday

Accepting Bids

The White Earth LTCC program is accepting bids for a bath

modification that includes the installation of a walk-in tub to be

done at an individual home located on the White Earth

Reservation. Construction must be performed by a Minnesota

licensed contractor and per MN State Code. All contractors

must pass both White Earth RTC background and drug testing.

Construction must follow State guidelines, including cost

effectiveness. Payment will be made in full after final inspection, review of receipts, and approval of completed job. Bid

specifications and locations are available at the White Earth

Tribal Health Building, 26246 Crane Road, White Earth, MN

56591. All BIDS submitted MUST include a diagram/blueprint of the proposed project and a list of materials, labor,

equipment, etc. or they will be considered incomplete and will

not be accepted. Due to client confidentiality, the bid description must be picked up in person at the White Earth Tribal

Health Building. We are open Monday-Friday 8:00am4:30pm. Bids will be accepted until 4:30 pm on Feb. 6,

2026. For more information contact Angela Soyring at 218983-3286 or angela.soyring @whiteearth-nsn.gov

Lake Grove Township

Monthly Meeting Notice

Notice is hereby given to the citizens of Lake Grove

Township, County of Mahnomen, State of Minnesota,

that the monthly Township meeting will be held on the

3rd Tuesday of each month. The meeting will commence

at 7:30 p.m. at the Eugene Tibbetts residence.

Lori Tibbetts

Clerk, Town of Lake Grove

Wednesday, January 7, 2026

Anishinaabeg Today

Sugar Bush Township Residents

Notice of Township Filing

Notice is Hereby Given to the residents of Sugar Bush

Township that the annual filing for election of officers

opens Dec 19, 2025, and continues through January

13, 2026. The following positions are to be filled at the

election on March 10, 2025

SUPERVISOR / 3-YEAR TERM

If you wish to file for candidacy, please file with the

township clerk at her Residence in the evenings or by

appointment. If you would like to make an appointment

or need further information call 651-302-1479. The

clerk’s office is (33724 County Road, 143 Ogema, MN

56569) and will be open for filing starting January 2,

2026, from 1 until 5 pm.

Deb Chilton, Clerk

Sugar Bush Township

LAKE GROVE TOWNSHIP RESIDENTS

Notice of Filling

Notice is hereby given to the residents of Lake Grove

Township that the annual filing for election of officers

opens on December 31, 2025. The following positions

are to be filled at the election on March 10, 2026.

COMBINDED CLERK/TREASURER– 2 YEAR TERM

If you wish to file for candidacy please file with the township clerk at her residence or call for further information

at 218-841-4963. The deadline for filing is January

13, 2026 at 5 PM. The clerk’s home will be open for filing

on January 14, 2026 from 1-5 PM.

Lori Tibbetts, Clerk

Lake Grove Township

Waubun School Forest

- Ski Trails and Sledding Check Facebook page (Waubun School Forest Information)

to find when the hut is open and trails

are ready. Located at 2541 State Hwy 113.

Iron Range Area CC

The Iron Range Area Community Council holds a

meeting on the first Thursday of each month at at 6:30

p.m. the Greenway Township Hall in Marble, Minn.

PP School Meeting Minutes

Pine Point Regular School Board Meeting

Monday, November 5, 2025 @ 4:30 p.m.

Pine Point School Staff Room

1. Roll Call – Meeting called to order by Chairman John

Swan at 4:35 p.m.

Members present – Marva Aitken, Michael Swan, Gerald

Roberts, Allison Jones, John Swan

Members absent – Sara Hunt

2. Recognition of Visitors – Bonnie Meeks

3. Approval/Amendment of Agenda – Motion by Marva

Aitken to approve the agenda as presented, seconded by

Gerald Roberts. All in favor. Motion carried

4. Approval/Amendment of Minutes – Motion by Michael

Swan to approve the September 8, 2025 minutes as presented,

seconded by Allison Jones. All in favor. Motion carried.

5. Finance

a. Treasurer’s Report – Motion by Marva Aitken to

approve Treasurer’s Report for September/October 2025, seconded by Michael Swan. All in favor. Motion carried.

b. Payment of Bills & Electronic Funds Transfer & Debit

Card Transactions – Motion by Michael Swan to approve the

payment of bills for the month of September/October 2025 in

the amount of $109,669.89 for check #34507 through check

#34616 and the EFT for Federal/State/TRA/PERA Payroll Tax

& Debit Card Transactions, seconded by Allison Jones. All in

favor. Motion carried.

6. Unfinished Business

a. No unfinished business

7. New Business

a. IOwA Designation – Motion by Marva Aitken to designate Christopher Schulz to act as the Identified Office with

Authority for Pine Point School District #25, seconded by

Michael Swan. All in favor. Motion carried.

b. Canvassing Election Results – Motion by Allison Jones

to approve the November 4, 2025 election results as submitted,

seconded by Gerald Roberts. All in favor. Motion carried.

8. Principal’s Report – Discussion on Culture Family Fun

Day; School Pictures; DL Pow Wow; Student Presentations;

Student Showcase; Thanksgiving Feast/Break; Christmas

Movie; Christmas Feast/Break; Teacher Inservice; Tribal

Consultation; Audit; Solar Panels. No action needed.

9. Public Participation – Toys for Tots; Community

Christmas Party; Halloween Party; School Pictures

10. Adjournment – Motion by Michael Swan to adjourn the

meeting at 5:05 p.m., seconded by Gerald Roberts. All in

favor. Motion carried.

Anishinaabeg Today

Wednesday, January 7, 2026

Submitted photo

Elbow-Tulaby Lakes Fire Department representatives from left are

Paul Gerving, Jake Folstrom, Ken Wittmann and WREC’s

Operation Round Up Secretary/Treasurer Rick Morris.

Wild Rice Electric Cooperative

helps local firefighters gear up

Wild Rice Electric Cooperative (WREC) recently donated

$5,000 to the Elbow-Tulaby Lake Volunteer Fire Department

through its Operation Round Up® program. The donation will help

buy turnout gear for several new volunteers who have joined the

department.

Fire Chief, Paul Gerving, said the funding couldn’t have come

at a better time. “This is a huge help for our department,” Gerving

said. “Getting new volunteers properly equipped makes a big difference, and we’re extremely grateful to Wild Rice Electric and its

members for supporting us.”

Operation Round Up lets WREC members round up their electric bills to the nearest dollar, with the extra change going into a

fund for local projects and community needs like keeping firefighters safe and ready to serve.

“Supporting local first responders is just one of the ways we

give back to our communities,” said Rick Morris,

Secretary/Treasurer of WREC’s Operation Round Up Trust Board.

2026 Sobriety Powwow Royalty

Photo by Becky Howard

The New Year’s Sobriety Powwow was held Dec. 31-Jan. 1 at the

Naytahwaush Sports Complex. The new Sobriety royalty are Ayden

Zornes (Brave) and Gabriella Lague (Princess).

Photo by Becky Howard

From left are Jamie Wirth, Shari Korte, Raegan Hendrickson, Chairman Michael Fairbanks, Margaret

Eischens, Anna Nessman, and Liz Fairbanks. Not pictured: Merrilu Crandall and Stacy Zima.

WEN Child Support Program receives honors for

their dedicated service to families and community

The White Earth Nation Child Support program

received the “Spirit of the People Award” at the

Minnesota American Indian Chamber of Commerce

37th Annual MAICC Awards Dinner on Dec. 11,

2025, at the Hinkley Resort and Casino. This recognition reflects the exceptional dedication, hard work,

and significant impact White Earth Nation Child

Support Program has made in the community and in

the Indigenous landscape.

White Earth Nation Child Support program staff

members attended the awards banquet to accept the

award. “We are honored to receive such a prestigious award, thank you to MAICC, board members,

sponsors, and everyone in attendance for the recognition,” said Raegan Hendrickson, Manager of White

Earth Nation Child Support Program. “We would

also like to thank the White Earth Tribal Council and

leadership for their commitment and ongoing support

and to our communities for allowing us to serve

you.”

Annual RBC Employee Christmas Party

Photo by Gary W. Padrta

The annual White Earth RBC Employee Christmas Party was held Dec. 5 at the Shooting Star Casino in

Mahnomen. More than 800 employees and guests played games, had a chance at door prizes, enjoyed a

meal, and were entertained by Mastermind Colin Cloud. (above)

This is a copy of a public record, reproduced as it was published. It is not legal advice, and it may not be the version a court would rely on. Check the official source before you cite it.