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. 5
White Earth, Minn.
today@whiteearth-nsn.gov
Wednesday, May 6, 2026
The White Earth Nation
General Election is June 9
Meet the candidates moving on to the big show
The candidates are set for the White
Earth General Election slated for Tuesday,
June 9.
Incumbent Michael “Mike” LaRoque
and Jacob McArthur will battle it out for
Secretary-Treasurer. LaRoque received 474
votes and McArthur gathered 616 votes in
the March 31 Primary Election.
Incumbent Henry G. Fox edged out
Andy “Jack” Auginaush in the District 1
race. Fox received 152 votes and
Auginaush brought in 131.
In District 2, Representative Eugene
Sommers did not re-run for office. Eight
candidates filed and Alrick “Son” Accobee,
270 votes, and Sheri Kay Snetsinger, 127
votes, will move on to the June General
Election.
The official White Earth Nation
Primary Election results can be seen on
Page 9.
The order of the how the candidates
will be placed on the ballot was determined
by a lottery drawing that was open to the
public and streamed live on White Earth
YouTube on April 13 at RBC building
lower conference room. The names of the
following candidates are how they will
appear on the ballot:
Secretary-Treasurer
Michael “Mike” LaRoque (Incumbent)
Jacob McArthur
District 1 Committeeperson
Andy “Jack” Auginaush
Henry G. Fox (Incumbent)
District 2 Committeeperson
Sheri Kay Snetsinger
Alrick “Son” Accobee
All candidates were given the opportunity to submit an article stating their views,
platforms, and a photo for this issue. To
read what they have to say turn to Pages
27-29.
More election information can be
found on Page 25.
Early Voting Begins
Monday-Friday
8 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
Additional Hours
Saturday, May 9 (10 a.m.-2 p.m.)
Monday, May 25 (8 a.m.-4:30 p.m.)
Saturday, June 6 (8 a.m.-4 p.m.)
Location
White Earth Election Board
Shooting Star Casino RV Park
Mahnomen, Minn.
If you have election questions you can
contact the White Earth Election Board at
218-936-5622, toll free at 1-866-211-9154
or via email at electionboard@whiteearthnsn.gov
ECRWSS
Postal Customer
PRESORTED
STANDARD
US POSTAGE
PAID
Detroit Lakes MN
Permit NO 14
The White Earth Mother’s Day Powwow is May 9-10 at Shooting Star
Sweet deal!
White Earth Natural
Resources Parks and Rec
in collaboration with the
Waubun School Forest
recently finished the maple
syrup season. They had a
total of 680 youth from
seven school districts and
two local youth organizations
from on and off the
reservation who were able
to travel to the Waubun
School Forest. Students
learned about maple
tapping, tree identification,
phenology and the
evaporation/boiling process.
Students collected 600
gallons of sap that made 18
gallons of syrup, a 33 to 1
ratio!
Photo by Zoe Keezer
Anishinaabeg Today
2
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
Gary W. Padrta
Future Issues *
Deadline
Issue Date
June 24
July 1
May 27
July 29
August 26
September 30
June 3
August 5
September 2
October 7
* Deadline and issue dates subject to change
Do Not Forget
Wednesday, May 6, 2026
Memorial Day honors men, women who have fought in many wars
By Budd Parker
White Earth Community Veteran
Spring is here and Memorial Day is around the corner.
Once again, we are called to remember and show the
respect of a grateful nation to the fallen men and women
who died in the many wars that our country has suffered
through, as well as to those who made it home but have
since passed away. Daily we lose veterans who served our
country during these all too frequent times of trial.
Here in our own communities, only recently, we’ve
lost our dear friend Darwin “Boy Boy” McArthur - one of
the kindest, decent, and most unassuming veterans here in
White Earth, as well as one of our honored female veterans,
Rita (Vizenor) Boriin, formerly of Pine Point.
Armistice Day - renamed Memorial Day in 1954 - was
not proclaimed a national holiday in order to glorify wars
or battles, rather that it would keep the sacrifices, horrors,
and senselessness of war ever present in our memories in
hopes that we would ever strive to find alternatives to prevent future wars. Absolutely, it is entirely appropriate and
incredibly important to honor and celebrate the countless
heroics performed by so many in battle and in the war
efforts.
However, a main purpose was to continually recall,
honor, and contemplate the millions slaughtered and to
remind citizens of the overwhelming mass destruction and
carnage of war, particularly World War I and 22 years later
World War II - that Americans would never forget or minimize the depravity that occurred every single day, on land
and at sea, in nearly every corner of the world for six long
years. This national holiday was set apart to remember and
honor those who died fighting to defeat authoritarianism,
mass murder of millions of innocents, and to preserve the
democratic values and liberties that are the foundation of
the United States of America.
Eighty years and several generations later we can no
longer entirely grasp, nor fully appreciate the enormity of
what these previous generations endured and sacrificed.
Not only the millions of service men and women who lost
their lives, but the anguish of millions of mothers, fathers,
and spouses that lost their young men and women in the
prime of their youth - of the millions of children that went
through life having never known their fathers or mothers or at best, having only a faint memory of them. And of
course, the soldiers and sailors that endured lifelong emotional damage witnessing unimaginable atrocities that
haunted so many of them to their dying days.
Let us all take time this Memorial Day to honor our
fallen veterans and to be ever mindful and grateful for the
countless benefits and liberties we enjoy, and too often take
for granted, because of their sacrifices.
Over the winter, we learned of five more soldiers and
one sailor from our reservation that died in service and of
several more of our female veterans. These are brief
accounts of what little we’ve been able to learn of them, as
well as to recall exploits of one airman that have been
largely forgotten and absolutely should not be.
We still have not found pictures of many of our men
that died in wartime: Spanish-American War - Joseph
Vizenor; World War I - James Bear, Isaac Bunker, Peter
DeFoe, Mike Kiplin, Louis LeQuier, Wm Mitchell, Joseph
Paul; and World War II - Eddie Brown, George Burnette,
Harry Lewis, William Potter, Charles “Buster” Smith,
Emery St. John, and Charles “Sonny” Wadena.
If readers know of photos of any these veterans, please
email faircox@arvig.net or whiteearthhistory@gmail.com
or write to: Calvary Cemetery Sexton, PO Box 57, Ogema,
MN 56569.
World War I
James Joseph Bear [no photo found]
Corporal, Co. K, 4th Engineer Training Rgt., 4th Div.,
U.S. Army Engineers Corps. After attending Morris Gov’t
Indian School, he joined the Army Engineers Corps enlisting under the name James Beare and was soon promoted to
Corporal. He was removed from the overseas list and
selected for officer’s training. While there, James contracted influenza and pneumonia and died at the Base Hospital,
Camp A. A. Humphreys (now Ft. Belvoir), Virginia Oct. 3,
1918 at the age of 33. James became the second known
Chippewa of the White Earth Reservation to be buried in
Arlington National Cemetery.
Michael E. “Mike” Kiplin [no photo found]
Pvt., Co. E, 23rd Inf., 2nd Div., U.S. Army. Due to his
cool nerve, courage and experience with firearms he soon
qualified for the extremely hazardous position of sharpshooter. In July 15-22 at Chateau Thiery, the 2nd Div.
arrested the Germans’ drive to Paris and went on to attacking their forces at Belleau Wood followed by fierce engagements at Fère-en-Tardenois and Soissons. In the thick of
combat throughout July, they were relieved briefly to
regain full divisional strength before being sent to the
Champagne front where the 2nd took a leading role in the
Champagne-Marne offensive Aug. 22-Sept. 2 and then the
Saint-Mihiel offensive Sept. 12-16. They were then sent
back to the Champagne sector Oct. 1, where the 2nd was
used as shock troops in the first phase of the MeuseArgonne offensive which was destined to end the war. The
2nd broke through allowing other units to consolidate and
capture the strong held position of Blanc Mont. The 23rd
Reg’t. relieved the 165th Inf. and attacked at 5:30 a.m.,
Nov. 1 on a two-kilometer front. They captured Landres-etSt. Georges, Bois Hazois and Bois l ‘Epasse. Advancing
continuously from Nov. 1 to the 5, the 23rd captured Fosse,
Letanne and Beaumont. Six days later on Nov. 11 1918, the
Armistice took effect and ended the war.
After the fighting ended, Mike’s family heard nothing
from him or about him for nearly two months until Dec. 31
when his mother Elsie received word from the War
Department that he had been severely wounded in action
Nov. 5. Desperately trying every avenue to learn where her
son was and of his condition, she repeatedly contacted
Mike’s company officers, the War Dept., and the Home
Service Department of the Red Cross, but still Elsie could
get no answers. Despite all her efforts, it wasn’t until one
year and four months later on March 1920, that the Adj.
General’s Office notified Elsie that her boy had been Killed
in Action on Nov. 5, 1918. Mike was 24 years old. His
remains were brought home the following year and on April
4, 1921, Mike was laid to rest in St. Michael’s Catholic
Cemetery in Mahnomen.
William Mitchell [no photo found]
Pvt., Co. L, 6th Inf., 5th Div., U.S. Army. From
Naytahwaush, he entered the service and was sent to
Jefferson Barracks, Missouri Aug. 9, 1918. High numbers
of casualties on the front led the Army to ship many enlisted men to Europe before completing their training - many
with only three weeks of instruction before going into combat. The commander of the 307th Inf. informed the 1st
Army's inspector general that 90% of his 850-900 replacements he received just before going into the Argonne had
never fired a rifle or thrown a grenade. Some officers "had
to teach their new men how to load their weapons and don
See Veterans Page 36
Wednesday, May 6, 2026
Tribal offices closed for holiday
White Earth RBC offices will be closed on May 25 for
Memorial Day and will reopen on May 26.
Modified services will still be available.
Anishinaabeg Today
News From Chairman Michael Fairbanks
Aaniin
Boozhoo
Gaa-waabaabiganikaag
Niminwendam Waabaminaan!
Zaagibagaa-giizis-Giizis!
Aaniish inaa akawe ninga-gaagiizomaag aadizookaanag.
Weweni-sago-na
Greetings White Earth Nation I am Happy to See
You!
It is already May!
Everyone Be Safe & Stay Safe,
Omagakiig gaye binesiiwag iwide agwajiing
noongom! The frogs and birds are outside today!
Ziigwan has finally sprung. As we all know when all
the goon, snow has melted and the lakes and rivers
wake up, it is then the time we cannot tell our sacred
Creation Stories, aadizookaanag so, we must ask to
borrow different ones from our local membership
family stories or other tribe’s. So, this month I have
one from our Haudenosaunee relatives this month.
In a large village where all nine clans lived
together, each family kept its own longhouse, marked
by a carved symbol above the doorway. One evening,
an old man emerged from the forest and wandered
into the village. He looked worn from travel—his
clothes torn, his moccasins thin, his hair all snarled
up. Hunger gnawed at him, and he hoped only for a
warm place to rest and a little food.
He approached the first longhouse, where a wolf
was carved above the door. He knocked, and the Wolf
Clan Mother appeared. The old man asked gently for
shelter and something to eat. She looked him over
with disgust and snapped at him to leave, pulling a
deerskin across the entrance.
He moved on to the next house, marked by a
hawk. Before he could even speak, the Hawk Clan
Mother drove him away, blocking her doorway with
a stick. And so, it went from one longhouse to another the Deer Clan, the Beaver Clan, the Heron, the
Snipe, the Eel each turned him away. Some mocked
him, others simply shut him out. With every refusal,
he bent lower, his steps slower, his hunger sharper.
At last, at the far edge of the village, he came
upon a small, worn longhouse with a bear carved
above the door. Smoke drifted from a single fire.
With little hope left, he knocked.
The Bear Clan Mother opened the door and saw
him clearly—his frailty, his hunger, his exhaustion.
Her expression softened. “Grandfather,” she said,
“you should not be out in the cold. Come inside and
warm yourself.” She brought him in, sat him on her
best furs, and offered what little food her family
had—a bowl of corn soup, given freely.
When the old man asked why she would help a
stranger, she answered simply: “It is what we are
taught. We honor our elders and care for those who
travel.”
That night, as he slept, she quietly mended his
worn moccasins.
In the morning, the old man awoke with a harsh
cough. The Bear Clan Mother insisted he stay until
he recovered. In return, he offered her a gift. He
described a tree in the forest and asked her to bring
back its leaves. She found it just as he said. He
showed her how to make a tea, and when he drank it,
his cough disappeared. “Remember this,” he told her.
“These leaves are medicine.”
The next day, he woke with a different ailment.
Again, he guided her to a plant, and again she learned
how to use it for healing. Day after day, this contin-
3
ued. Each illness brought a new lesson, each remedy
a new piece of knowledge. She listened carefully and
promised to remember and share what she learned.
After many days, the old man rose, fully well,
ready to leave. Before he departed, she went to gather
strawberries for his journey. But when she returned,
she saw a brilliant light shining from her longhouse.
Fearing fire—or worse—she rushed forward.
In the doorway stood a young man, glowing with
a gentle radiance. As she trembled, he spoke calmly:
“Do not be afraid. I am the Creator. I came to your
village in the form of that old man. I sought kindness,
but only you welcomed me. Because you remembered your teachings, I have given you a gift—the
knowledge of medicine.”
He told her to carry this knowledge to her people, to heal and to teach others.
From that day on, the Bear Clan became known
for their understanding of medicine—a gift born
from compassion, humility, and the simple act of
welcoming a stranger.
The White Earth Nation General Election will be
held on Tuesday, June 9 from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. This
issue of the Anishinaabeg Today includes articles
from the top two candidates for the SecretaryTreasurer, District 1 and District 2 representative
positions. I encourage everyone to read carefully
what each candidate has to say. Ask questions, and
reflect before deciding who you feel will best represent you, your family, and our Nation.
This issue also contains important information
on who can vote, polling locations, an absentee ballot
request, and contact information if you have election
questions.
Early voting is currently open at the election
office, located behind the Shooting Star Casino.
They are open Monday-Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30
p.m. They will also be open for additional hours on
Saturday, May 9 (Mother’s Day Powwow) from 10
a.m. to 2 p.m., May 25 (Memorial Day) from 8 a.m.
to 4:30 p.m., and June 6 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. You
can reach the election office at 218-936-5622 or electionboard@whiteearth-nsn.gov
Current and updated election information will be
shared through the White Earth website, White Earth
Facebook page, the Anishinaabeg Today, and the
election office. Also consider attending upcoming
candidate forums in your area to help in making
informed decisions.
Miigwech and thank you to everyone who takes
See Chairman Page 6
4
Anishinaabeg Today
News From Secretary-Treasurer Michael J. LaRoque
Aanin Boozhoo!
Greeting White Earth Members, I am honored to
serve as the Secretary/Treasurer for the White Earth
Tribal Council. This is my 2nd fiscal year 2026 quarterly report, ending March 31. Our fiscal year runs
from Oct. 1, 2025, to Sept. 30, 2026.
Overview of the Tribe’s Financial Position
(Q2 Financial Report)
As of the close of Q2 FY2026, the Tribe remains
in a strong and stable financial position, supported by
robust enterprise performance and healthy fund balances across key governmental and programmatic
accounts. Shooting Star Casino continues to provide
a solid financial foundation, with total assets of
$125.1 million, unrestricted cash of $66.4 million,
and total fund equity of $115.1 million, reflecting
strong liquidity and sustained asset growth. In addition, major Tribal funds—including Behavioral
Health, Health, ARPA, and Youth & Elder Funds—
maintain adequate cash reserves to support ongoing
operations and approved investments. Within the
General Fund, $16.28 million has been expended
against the FY26 approved budget of $31.26 million,
leaving $14.98 million available to support remaining FY26 operations and approved initiatives.
Collectively, these results demonstrate sound financial management, sufficient liquidity, and the capacity to advance the Tribe’s strategic priorities while
maintaining long-term financial stability.
Shooting Star Casino – Financial Overview
As of March 31, Shooting Star Casino, Hotel &
Event Center remains in a strong financial position.
Total assets decreased by $10.2 million, reaching
$125.1 million, driven primarily by a distribution of
10.6 million, to the tribal government. Unrestricted
cash and cash equivalents declined by nearly $12.1
million, because of the distribution to the tribe and
continued investment in remodeling of the casino.
Current assets decreased to $73.7 million, while
net property and equipment grew by $673,000,
reflecting ongoing capital investment and maintenance of facilities. On the liability side, total current
liabilities decreased by $2.0 million, largely attributable to lower gaming-related accruals and accounts
payable, reflecting normal operational activity and
timing of expenses.
Fund equity remains strong at $115 million.
While retained earnings decreased by $8.1 million
during the quarter a result of the tribal distribution,
overall equity levels remain robust and continue to
support the Tribe’s long-term financial stability and
strategic priorities.
Through the first half of the fiscal year, Shooting
Star remains ahead of budgeted net income on revenues of over $54.5 million and net income of over
$4.6 million.
*Total fund equity is the residual value of a company’s assets after all liabilities are deducted, representing the net worth belonging to shareholders. It is
found on the balance sheet and calculated as Total
Assets – Total Liabilities. This figure indicates the
amount returned to owners if the company were liquidated.
Wednesday, May 6, 2026
Behavioral Health, Health, Youth & Elder,
ARPA Funds Report
As of the close of Q2 FY2026, selected major
funds continue to maintain stable cash positions sufficient to support ongoing operations and approved
expenditures. Cash balances remain strongest within
the Behavioral Health Funds, reflecting the scale of
services and funding streams supporting these activities.
The ARPA Fund reflects revenues exceeding
expenses for the quarter, consistent with the planned
and phased use of time-limited federal resources.
Health Funds show expenses modestly exceeding
revenues for the period, consistent with normal timing differences between expenditures and reimbursements. Youth & Elder (Y&E) Funds reflect smallerscale activity with cash balances aligned to current
operational needs.
Overall, these funds remain financially stable
and continue to support the Tribe’s operational and
strategic priorities.
General Fund Overview
As of the close of Q2 FY2026, $16.28 million
has been expended, leaving $14.98 million available
to support remaining FY26 operations and approved
initiatives.
Waagigwan Mashkiki Financial Update 2nd
Quarter Report
Consolidated revenue for Mahnomen,
Moorhead, St. Cloud, Wholesale Sales, and all other
sources of revenue for the 2nd Fiscal Quarter of
FY2026, ending March 31, was $6.6 million. The
consolidated total expenses for the Quarter were $4.0
million. Consolidated net income for the quarter was
$2.6 million.
The total employees as of this quarter is 175
employees that range from Cultivation Technicians,
Dispensary Technicians, Post Harvest Technicians,
See LaRoque Page 31
Iron Range Area Community Council
The Iron Range Area Community Council holds a meeting on
the first Thursday of each month at 6:30 p.m. at the Greenway
Township Hall in Marble, Minn.
Wednesday, May 6, 2026
Anishinaabeg Today
News From District 3 Rep. Laura Lee Erickson
As April comes to a close, this coming month
will be filled with celebrations including graduations
that mark milestones in the lives of our young people. Graduation is a time to honor the hard work and
dedication of our students as they move onto the next
chapter of their lives. Congratulations to all the graduates and their families.
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.
4-15 Tribal leaders visited Tamarac National
Wildlife Refuge. Naytahwaush Community Charter
School students arrived to engage in environmental
education. We continued a meeting Friends of
Tamarac members to discuss ideas, collaboration
ideas.
4-20 Consultation with EPA regarding decision
to rescind the 2024 “Tribal Reserved Rights Rule,”
which had aimed to protect tribal treaty rights regarding water quality standards. There was a short comment period. White Earth staff and tribal leaders provided comments along with clarification how EPA is
going to comply with and recognize existing federal
law regarding treaty rights. This decision makes it
harder to protect aquatic resources.
4-27 MCT Tribal Executive Subcommittee
meeting’s in Hinckley, Minn.
4-28 MCT Tribal Executive Committee meeting
in Hinckley. Minn.
Project Updates
We remain dedicated to various projects and initiatives throughout the Reservation and District 3.
Our ongoing efforts focus on improving the quality
of life for our community members, supporting
development and ensuring that our district continues
to grow and thrive.
White Earth
White Earth was awarded funding to complete
design and environmental review activities for a proposed shared use path. The project will extend from
the White Earth Tribal Headquarters to Highway 34,
and then continue along Highway 34 to the intersection near the former Circle of Life School.
The project will be delivered in two phases. The
first phase will focus on the segment connecting the
Tribal Headquarters to Highway 34 while the second
phase will continue the path along Highway 34 to the
identified intersection. Phasing the project allows for
a more manageable approach to design, environmental clearance and future construction, while also positioning the Tribe to pursue additional funding as
needed.
This shared use path is intended to improve
pedestrian and bicycle safety, enhance connectivity
between community destinations and provide a safe,
accessible transportation option for residents.
Pine Point
The Tribe completed a Tribal Transportation
Safety Plan in 2024 which identified priority safety
projects throughout the community. One of the key
projects identified in the plan is the Pine Point Shared
Use Path. A consultant was engaged to develop preliminary design concepts and cost estimates for the
proposed trail which would extend from the newer
housing area along the curve and continue through
the village. These cost estimates were used to support
a Tribal Transportation Program Safety Fund
(TTPSF) grant application submitted earlier this year.
The application requests funding to support preconstruction activities, including design, environmental review, and right-of-way acquisition. Award
announcements are anticipated in July or August. As
outlined in the application, all pre-construction activities are expected to be completed by the end of
Valleyview Commons
Tenant is responsible for electric and heat.
For more information contact DW Jones Management.
218-547-3307 or apply at www.dwjonesmanagement.com
2027. After this step, Construction funding will need
to be secured. The current project schedule assumes
construction would begin in 2029. It would be ideal
to advance the project to 2028.
The Pine Point Community has an existing softball field that requires updates and repairs to ensure
it is safe, functional and suitable for community use.
Tribal leaders approved funding to repair the outfield, fix the infield and provide softball bases to
restore the Pine Point Community softball field to
safe and usable condition.
Elbow Lake
The new Boys and Girls Club building is scheduled to be set on July 27.
A contractor for the Big Elbow Lake Park swim
area project was secured last fall. Plans to break
ground will be determined by spring thaw and road
restrictions. The contractor is scheduled to start as
soon as possible this spring.
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
2026 White Earth General Election
Tuesday, June 9 / 8 a.m.-8 p.m.
Monday-Friday / 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
Early Voting is Now Open!
Additional Hours
Saturday, May 9: Mother’s Day Powwow / 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
(Open) Monday, May 25: Memorial Day / 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
Saturday, June 6: 8 a.m.-4 p.m.
Location
White Earth Election Board Building (Mahnomen)
218-936-5622
5
Anishinaabeg Today
6
Wednesday, May 6, 2026
A Message from the Tribal Council
The White Earth Reservation Business
Committee is strongly condemning recent federal
action to overturn protections for the watershed surrounding the Boundary Waters Canoe Area
Wilderness, calling the decision a dangerous step
backward for environmental protection and Tribal
sovereignty.
“For the Anishinaabe people, this is not a political issue. It is a sacred responsibility,” said Chairman
Michael Fairbanks. “These waters are our relatives.
They sustain manoomin, our culture, and our way of
life. To put them at risk for short-term extraction is to
abandon that responsibility.”
The Senate vote to reverse a long-standing mining withdrawal opens the door to sulfide-ore mining
in one of the most pristine freshwater ecosystems in
the world, a move the Committee says ignores both
science and treaty obligations.
“Sulfide-ore mining in this watershed is not a
manageable risk. It is a permanent one," Fairbanks
said. "Once these waters are contaminated, they cannot be restored. This is not development. It is irreversible damage.”
The Committee also criticized federal leadership
for failing to uphold its trust responsibilities to Tribal
Nations.
“This vote represents a failure to honor treaty
rights and a willingness to sacrifice Indigenous lands
and waters for corporate gain,” Fairbanks said.
“Respect for Tribal sovereignty is not optional. It is a
legal and moral obligation.”
For the Anishinaabe people, protecting these
waters is not optional. It is a responsibility carried
forward for the generations yet to come.
“We are taught to think seven generations ahead.
This decision does the opposite,” Fairbanks said. “It
places profit today over the survival of tomorrow.”
The White Earth Reservation Business
Committee is calling on federal leaders to reverse
course and engage in meaningful government-togovernment consultation with Tribal Nations.
“We will not stand by as our waters are put at
risk,” Fairbanks said. “We will defend manoomin.
We will defend these lands. And we will uphold the
responsibility given to us by our ancestors.”
The White Earth Division of Natural Resources
is providing the opportunity to obtain bison parts for
personal or ceremonial use. To ensure a respectful
and orderly process, the following guidelines outline
the eligibility requirements, scheduling, and procedures for receiving bison parts.
Eligibility Requirements
To request and receive bison parts you must be
an enrolled member or descendant of the White Earth
Nation.
Harvest Schedule and Pickup Process
Two bison are harvested monthly at B&T Meats
in Waubun. The harvesting date may vary month to
month based on scheduling and herd management
needs.
Bison parts must be picked up on the same day
as the harvest. Upon arrival, recipients are required
to complete an acknowledgment letter before receiving any materials.
How to Request Bison Parts
Eligible applicants may call the White Earth
Division of Natural Resources at 218-935-2488.
Requests are fulfilled in the order received. If
demand exceeds availability during a given harvest,
applicants will be added to the list for the following
month’s harvest.
the time to stay informed and getting involved, by
casting your vote for the future of our Nation.
Chi-miigwech bizindawiyeg miinawaa anooj
ninda-gikinoo’amaadiwin
Baamaapii wiingezin.
Miigwech bizindawiyeg.
Gigawaabamininim naagaj.
Thank you for listening and continuing to learn
together
Take it easy.
See you all later.
Chairman Michael Fairbanks
Guidelines for obtaining bison parts for ceremonial, personal use
Chairman from Page 3
WE Tribal Public Health sponsors Medicare 101 event
White Earth Tribal
Public Health
recently sponsored
a Medicare 101
event at the
Shooting Star
Casino. Attendees
could visit several
vendors and attend
an informational
lecture by Anne
Larson, an
Outreach Specialist
with Minnesota
Aging Pathways.
Lunch was also
provided.
Photo by
Gary W. Padrta
Did You Know?
2026 White Earth General Election
Tuesday, June 9 / 8 a.m.-8 p.m.
Monday-Friday / 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
Early Voting is Now Open!
Additional Hours
Saturday, May 9: Mother’s Day Powwow / 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Monday, May 25: Memorial Day / 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
Saturday, June 6: 8 a.m.-4 p.m.
Location
White Earth Election Board Building
Shooting Star Casino RV Park (behind casino)
Mahnomen, Minn.
218-936-5622
Wednesday, May 6, 2026
Anishinaabeg Today
Important updates on future healthcare
services at White Earth and Naytahwaush
Dear White Earth Community Members,
We want to share an important update about the
future of healthcare services at White Earth and
Naytahwaush. As we work to bring the IHS clinics
under White Earth self-governance, our goal is to
keep you informed, answer questions, and ensure our
community understands what this transition means.
Why is This Happening?
White Earth’s self-governance efforts reflect a
long-term commitment to improving health care
through tribal leadership, community voice, and
stronger local control. While this work has moved
through different phases over time, the overall goal
has stayed the same: to prepare White Earth for a
stronger, more effective, and tribally guided health
system for future generations.
White Earth’s IHS program is currently operating at about a 50% vacancy rate, and staffing shortages are affecting patient care. White Earth sees this
as a critical point for stepping in and strengthening
local control of clinic operations.
White Earth has been planning for this transition
since 2016, following direction from Tribal leadership. Over the past several years:
The Tribe partnered with Dr. Don Warne and the
NDSU American Indian Public Health Resource
Center in 2016-2017 for technical assistance on 638
compacts and tribal readiness. This team addressed:
• A full community-informed SWOT (Strengths,
Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats) analysis. In
2017 this piece was completed.
• Elders and community member concerns and
considerations. Members of the community identified tribal politics as a key concern and outlined the
need to establish a health system that could operate
independently.
• In response, a Health Board structure was created to ensure separation from the Reservation
Business Committee (RBC).
• A Health Board has met with other Title V
tribes, continued planning for White Earth Title V
assumption, thought out community concerns and
identified key strategies to move forward.
Two current members of the Interim Health
Board have served since its original formation in
2016. The Board learned from other Tribes who have
completed similar transitions to learn from their
experiences.
White Earth has continued investing in this
effort, including the joint venture for the
Naytahwaush clinic, and after nearly nine years of
planning, we are now moving forward.
How Tribal Management Improves
White Earth has already successfully managed
federal healthcare funding through agreements with
Indian Health Service. This has allowed us to expand
services far beyond what would have been possible
under federal control. For at least 20 years White
Earth has operated Title I services under an annual
funding agreement, providing health and behavioral
health services under Tribal governance.
Examples include:
Within the Tribal Health Division, if we solely
relied upon the IHS annual funding agreement, it
would support:
• 3 Public Health Registered Nurses
• 10 Community Health Representative (CHR)
drivers
• 1 Emergency Medical Services (EMS) staff
member
• 4 full-time Registered Nurses and 13 part-time
Registered Nurses
However, under tribal assumption we’ve been
able to grow our Tribal Health program to:
• 48 nurses within the Health Division
• 24 EMS staff
• 20 CHR staff
These positions exist today because of Tribal
management of healthcare funding and are part of the
services our community relies on.
Substance Use Disorder Services:
• Under IHS the tribe receives only about
$500,000 in funding, supporting limited staff. If the
tribe had not assumed this service area, there would
be very limited CD (substance use disorder) services.
• Under Tribal control we have been able to
expand programs such as Women’s Wellbriety, Oshki
Manidoo youth treatment, Acute Care men’s treatment, Strawberry Lake family treatment, outpatient
and MAT services, and First Thunderbeing youth
programs. We employ roughly 278 staff across all
our inpatient and outpatient programs, serving our
membership on reservation, Bemidji, and the Twin
Cities.
Mental Health Services:
• Under IHS there would be funding for approximately 1 psychiatrist or 3 therapists.
• Since coming under Tribal control, the past 15
years we have expanded services in all communities,
including 5 psychiatrists and about 70 providers on
the reservation, in Duluth, Bemidji, and the Twin
Cities.
This is the impact of Tribal self-governance. We
are bringing our experience and abilities to grow and
expand services that our membership needs.
Why Now?
We are at a critical point:
• The current IHS system is operating at approximately 50% vacancy.
• There have been fewer people applying for
open positions.
• This directly impacts patient care.
At the same time, White Earth already successfully supports approximately 600 employees across
Tribal Health and Behavioral Health programs. We
believe that we have more resources to successfully
support and assist the overall health system to attain
healthy staffing levels and ultimately improve service access.
With this transition, we will:
• Hire a healthcare CEO to oversee clinic operations.
• Ensure that experts are administering the programs and advising the health board.
• Provide a stable and supportive work environment.
• Streamline hiring processes to avoid hiring
delays and maintain healthy staffing levels.
• Offer competitive salaries and benefits to
existing employees and new hires.
• Improve recruitment and retention.
See Updates Page 18
7
White Earth Council of Elders
By Lucille M. Silk, Chairwoman
White Earth Nation Council of Elders
We trust that everyone had a very Happy Easter and are
now looking forward to spring, or will we have to bypass it
again this year. We are getting a variety of weather that goes
from a nice warm day to extremely cold with winds galore. It
creates havoc on our Elder bodies, so please take good care of
yourselves to prevent colds and flu.
The first meeting for the Elder Council was held April 7 in
White Earth at the Congregate complex. The meeting renewed
the purpose of this Council which is to do all that we can to
advocate for better living conditions, health care, enough food,
safety, and to check on homebound Elders. We try to answer all
calls and make the appropriate referrals to programs that deal
with their issues.
The Wisdom Steps quarterly meeting was held at Black
Bear Casino on the Fond du Lac Reservation. These folks are
busy planning for the annual conference at their facility on June
2-4. Board members represent the 11 Tribes in Minnesota,
which includes Minneapolis, Duluth and Bemidji urban. These
board members are endorsed by each Tribe and urban areas.
White Earth has 16 members that have completed their requirements to attend the conference. The Elder bus will transport
most of the members and some will be driving their own vehicles. Wisdom Steps is a great health prevention program that
has been in existence for 26 years. We encourage others to join
by checking with your health provider to get the needed
requirements and beginning an exercise routine that would be
marked weekly for steps or miles walked. We hope to send
more Elders to the conference in 2027, so we ask that you begin
now.
There was a conference on April 21-22 at Northern Lights
in Walker, Minn., that was available for Elders to attend but no
one signed up for it. The Elders decided at the April meeting
that if WECOE funds were to pay for Elders to attend meetings
or conferences during the same month that they had to choose
one or the other, so that in all fairness others could have the
opportunity.
There were nine members that attended the Tribal
Executive meeting on April 29-30 at Grand Casino in Hinckley,
Minn. It was a good meeting with lots of information and questions about Tribal members rights to be informed on the issues
of concern, with the right to have a referendum vote.
The Reservation Business Committee for White Earth held
their quarterly meeting on April 24 at the Shooting Star. A
report was given by the Elders Council and other councils
throughout the Reservation and urban areas. All Tribal Council
members gave their individual reports to those in attendance. A
three-minute question time was allowed for members to ask
their concerns about sovereignty and when the need for a referendum vote of the people was asked of the RBC Council. One
of the big issues of concern was the 638 of Indian Health
Service, which is the transfer of management to the Tribe. It
was stated that not enough education was given to membership
about this process.
Missteps, pauses and detours are part of every journey.
They don’t erase progress—they shape it. Stay patient with
yourself. Your dreams are still within reach, and you’re closer
than you think.
Peace to all.
Lucille Silk, Chair
218-204-0112
You can reach the newspaper at today@whiteearth-nsn.gov
Anishinaabeg Today
8
Elders Commission Election Notice
The White Earth Elders Commission hereby
announces the General Election will be held Aug. 11,
2026, for the following positions;
Two (2) - District representatives for District I
Two (2) - District representatives for District III
Filing dates are 8 a.m. Monday, June 1 to 4:30
p.m., Thursday, June 18.
Those wishing to file for candidacy can do so
with the Filing Agent - White Earth Compliance
Division 779 E Jefferson Ave, Mahnomen, MN
56557. Please contact Christie Haverkamp at 218935-3962 or Email Christie.Haverkamp@whiteearth
-nsn.gov.
Candidates wishing to file for must meet the following eligibility criteria per the White Earth Elders
Commission By-Laws.
• Is an enrolled member of the White Earth Band
of the Minnesota Chippewa Tribe
• At least fifty-five (55) years old on or before
the date of the Election.
• Must reside within the exterior boundaries of
the White Earth Reservation and
• Must be a resident of their District for a least
12-month period immediately preceding the date
established for the election.
• Must be able to pass the background check and
meet background eligibility* according to the
approved By-laws of the Elders Commission.
White Earth Tribal and Community College
(WETCC) is proud to announce the launch of a fully
online Associate of Arts (AA) degree program,
expanding access to higher education for students
across the region and beyond.
This new online option allows students to complete their AA degree with greater flexibility, making
it possible to balance education with work, family, and
community responsibilities. The program reflects
WETCC’s ongoing commitment to providing accessible, community- centered education rooted in
Anishinaabe values.
“WETCC’s new fully online AA degree program
option opens doors for students who may not be able
to come to campus but still want a meaningful, culturally grounded college experience,” said Allen Derks,
Ph.D., Interim President of WETCC. “Through distance education, WETCC can support White Earth
members and other learners across the region, in the
Twin Cities, and out of state, helping them earn a college degree while strengthening their connection to
Anishinaabe culture, language, and community.”
The online Associate of Arts (AA) degree in
Humanities, Arts, and Social Sciences provides a
strong foundation in critical thinking, communication,
creativity, and problem- solving—skills that are essential in today’s workforce. Graduates of liberal arts programs pursue careers across a wide range of fields,
including business and administration, communications and marketing, education and human services,
government and public service, healthcare support
roles, and data and analytical fields. Because of its
broad and adaptable skillset, the AA degree prepares
students for diverse career pathways across many
industries. The program also serves as a strong acade-
mic foundation for students planning to transfer, as it
meets the general education requirements for
Minnesota State Colleges and Universities four-year
institutions, creating a seamless pathway to a bachelor’s degree. Courses are designed to reflect
WETCC’s emphasis on cultural knowledge, community engagement, and student support, ensuring that
online learners remain connected to the college’s mission and values while pursuing their education from
anywhere.
Enrollment for the online AA degree is now open
for in-state and out-of-state students.
Enrollment Information
Students interested in enrolling in the online AA
program can get started today. Phone: 218-935-0417
or apply online: www.wetcc.edu/apply
For additional support, prospective students can
connect with:
• Admissions Office – admissions@wetcc.edu
• Student Services – Amber Fox, 218-935-0417
Ext. 8330, amber.fox@wetcc.edu. WETCC staff are
available to guide students through the enrollment
process and help them take the next step in their educational journey.
About White Earth Tribal and Community
College
White Earth Tribal and Community College is
located in Mahnomen. The college provides higher
education that integrates academic excellence with
Anishinaabe culture, language, and values. WETCC
serves students through degree programs, certificates,
workforce training, and community education.
Contact Information
White Earth Tribal and Community College 218935-0417 or www.wetcc.edu
White Earth Community Cleanup 2026
Election: Aug. 11, 2026
Regular Election Polling Places:
District 1 - Rice Lake Community Center
9 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Mahnomen Veterans Center / 2 - 6 p.m.
District 3 - Pine Point Community Center
9 a.m. -1 p.m.
White Earth Community Center / 2 - 6 p.m.
White Earth Tribal and Community College
launches fully online Associate of Arts Degree
WE Housing Authority 2025 annual report available
The White Earth Housing Authority (WEHA),
TDHE, would like to share with our community that
the 2025 Indian Housing Block Grant (IHBG)
Annual Performance Report (APR) has been completed.
This report reflects the work, progress, and services provided over the past year to support our families and communities. We believe in keeping our
Wednesday, May 6, 2026
people informed and welcome anyone who would
like to review it.
Copies are available at the front desk of the
White Earth Housing Authority, or you can call 218473-4663 to request one be emailed.
Miigwech for your continued support, and the
White Earth Housing Authority Team wish you all a
safe and grand day.
White Earth Community Cleanup 2026
Notice
St. Columba Episcopal Church Cemetery Clean Up
The Cemetery Clean-up will be in effect
May 1 through Memorial Day.
Families are responsible for cleaning loved one’s graves. The
cemetery is maintained on a volunteer basis. The majority of
maintenance is completed by a number of elders, if you are able
to assist, please feel free to do so.
We will have a dumpster on site for disposal of old flowers and
memorials. If you see a grave that is not being maintained, please
be neighborly and clean it if you are able. Thank you for your
assistance.
St. Columba Bishop Committee
Wednesday, May 6, 2026
Anishinaabeg Today
9
Oshki Manidoo Center celebrates with spring feast
Photo by Carla Dahl
The Oshki Manidoo Center in Bemidji, Minn., recently held their annual spring feast. The day was filled with
games to include bingo, bags and volleyball, and everyone enjoyed a nice meal. Speaking at the event is
Chairman Michael Fairbanks as Secretary-Treasurer Michael LaRoque, center, and Oshki Manidoo Center
CEO Jeremy Syverson look on. The Center provides a safe and supportive environment for culturallybased healing and recovery.
10
Anishinaabeg Today
Wednesday, May 6, 2026
White Earth Reservation
Enrolled Elder Lawn Mowing Program
Wednesday, May 6, 2026
Anishinaabeg Today
11
There are things we can do to support
and strengthen mental health wellbeing
May is Mental Health Awareness
Month. Mental health is our ability to navigate our thoughts, emotions, relationships,
and the world around us. It affects how we
think, feel, and act every day. Just like
physical health, there are things we can do
to support and strengthen our mental wellbeing.
When your mental health is strong,
you’re better able to handle stress, face
challenges, build meaningful relationships,
and feel more confident in yourself.
Everyone experiences ups and downs,
tough days and tough seasons are part of
life. The key is learning to recognize what
supports your well-being and taking steps
to care for it, even when things feel “okay.”
Paying attention to your mental health
helps you understand what impacts you and
what tools, supports, or resources may help
when you need them. Small, consistent
actions can make a big difference. Taking
care of your mental health isn’t just selfcare, it’s an investment in your overall wellbeing and future.
A mental health condition (or mental
illness) refers to symptoms that are identified by a healthcare provider. These conditions can affect emotions, thinking, and
behavior. For some, it may look like ongoing sadness or anxiety. For others, it may
include difficulty concentrating, withdrawing from others, or experiencing things that
others do not. Mental health conditions are
common, treatable, and recovery is possible.
Mental health is not just individual; it’s
also shaped by our communities.
Connection, culture, support systems, and
access to resources all play an important
role in our overall well-being. Creating
spaces where people feel supported,
respected, and connected strengthens mental health for everyone.
If you or someone you care about
needs support, please reach out to White
Earth Mental Health.
24/7 Mental Health Crisis Line:
218-850-HELP (218-850-4357) or dial 988
WR Electric awards $1,000 grant to COLA
Wild Rice Electric Cooperative
(WREC) recently awarded a $1,000
STEAM Grant to Circle of Life Academy
to support a new hands-on learning project
in their 6th grade classroom.
The funding will be used to develop an
indoor garden, where students will study
plant growth, test different growing mediums, and participate in activities such as
plant dissection. The project also includes a
creative component, with students designing and decorating their own pots.
WREC is pleased to support classroom
projects that provide practical learning
opportunities in science, technology, engineering, art, and math.
WREC looks forward to seeing the
impact of this project as it gets underway.
Submitted photo
Wild Rice Electric Cooperative recently awarded a $1,000 STEAM Grant to Circle of Life
Academy.
You can reach the Anishinaabeg Today
at 218-935-3569
or today@whiteearth-nsn.gov
12
Anishinaabeg Today
Wednesday, May 6, 2026
Wednesday, May 6, 2026
Anishinaabeg Today
Stop by the Mahnomen True Value store and see Ryan
and Paige or give them a call at 218-935-5148.
You can reach the newspaper at today@whiteearth-nsn.gov or 218-935-3569
13
14
Anishinaabeg Today
Wednesday, May 6, 2026
Wednesday, May 6, 2026
Anishinaabeg Today
15
Follow simple rules to keep bears away
By White Earth Conservation Law Enforcement
As some are already aware, black bear encounters
have been on the rise in many of our communities and
villages. Although most bears are not comfortable
around people and leave when encountered, some
have become a nuisance by lingering around homes
and public areas. Please remember that bears are wild
animals-always remain cautious.
The White Earth Wildlife Department and
Conservation Officers offer the following suggestions
on how not to attract bears.
Garbage
• Don’t let your garbage pile up in a vehicle or
garage/shed.
• Reduce odors
• Store in a bear-proof container
• Wash out garbage cans
• Don’t put your garbage out for collection the
night before, do it in the morning of pick up. Make
sure it’s in a container and not just in garbage bags
lying at the end of your driveway. That not only
attracts bears but other wildlife as well, including raccoons and skunks.
Bird Feeders
• If you feed birds into the summer, consider
bringing the feeders in at night. Bears love sunflower
seeds and suet. This includes humming bird feeders.
Nectar is a great bear attractant.
Pet Food (dog or cat food)
• Keep inside at night or any time there is a bear
sighting in the area.
Outdoor grills and picnic areas
• Keep clean
• Bears like grease inside the grill or the little
grease traps underneath.
Fruit trees, gardens, and honey bees
• Use electric fencing if possible
Animal or fish carcasses and leech bait
• Don’t clean fish or leech bait in your back yard,
unless you clean it up afterwards.
• Boxes from leech bait should be disposed of
properly.
• Rinse out the buckets/pails used for transporting leeches.
Boats and canoes
• Rinse out the inside of canoes and any containers used for fishing or leeching.
• Rinse out the live well and inside of the boat.
If you do come in contact with a bear:
- Don’t panic
- Don’t shoot
- Don’t approach
- If a bear is in a tree, leave it alone. It should
come down and leave when it feels safe.
- If a bear is treed by your dogs, place the dogs
in the house or garage until the bear leaves the area.
The White Earth Conservation Officers have a
policy in place for setting up a live trap. The follow-
ing procedure should be followed: (This will be done
only after the above listed recommendations have
been followed.)
- Call White Earth Dispatch at 218-983-3201
with the complaint. Leave your name and contact
information.
- A Conservation Officer will contact you for the
complaint info and any recommendations they may
have for getting rid of the bear problem.
- If the above listed recommendations are followed and the bear continues to hang around for a
week or more afterwards, then the live trap will be utilized.
- When the live trap is set up, please choose a safe
location away from children and pets. The trap door
is very heavy and dangerous for them.
- Keep children and pets away from the trap,
whether it’s empty or has a bear in it. This is not a
toy! It’s very dangerous.
- Contact White Earth Dispatch immediately if a
bear is seen inside the trap. Do not approach the
trap!
- You may see a Conservation vehicle in the area
checking on it on occasion during this process.
The trap will not be used if the recommendations
aren’t followed or if the nuisance bear has cubs. There
is nothing worse than catching a cub and having to
deal with the mama bear on the outside of the trap, or
vise-versa.
The only time a nuisance bear can be shot is if
they are threatening to humans or if they are attacking
a person’s domestic animal: cats, dogs, or livestock.
You cannot shoot them if the food sources are not
eliminated from the property and the bear continues to
come in to eat. A wounded bear is more dangerous
than a bear coming in to eat “free food.” Any bear
destroyed must be reported to the White Earth
Conservation Department. Call dispatch immediately
to report any bears that are shot or found dead.
And finally, for those who live out in the country,
please remember that it is expected to have some type
of encounter with the animals inhabiting the surrounding area, whether it be squirrels, skunks, or bears, etc.
Please use common sense and follow the guidelines
recommended above when needed.
Please note that like any animal, bears are sacred
and should be treated with respect; just as one would
a beaver, eagle, hawk, etc. Try putting out asemaa
(tobacco) and say a little prayer with good thoughts.
Thank you from the White Earth Department of
Natural Resources and Conservation Officers.
Forestry has wood available for Spirit Fires
Did You Know...
You can read the current and past issues of the Anishinaabeg
Today online at www.whiteearth.com for free! The online issues
feature more color and you can read them right away when the
paper comes out on the first Wednesday of each month.
The White Earth Tribal Forestry office has firewood available for Spirit Fires when there is a passing in our communities. This firewood is cut and
split, and can be delivered to families on the reservation that may be going through the grieving process.
There are a few special considerations:
v This firewood is available for a tribal member
passing only.
v Firewood deliveries will be limited to one pickup
load per Spirit Fire/passing.
v The firewood will be delivered to families within
the reservation boundary.
v This firewood may be used only for Spirit Fire
purposes.
We hope to continue to offer this service as
much as we can in the future. Please contact the
White Earth Tribal Forestry Office in Naytahwaush
for this service at 218-935-5967. After business
hours and during weekends, call White Earth Police
Dispatch at 218-983-3281.
16
2026 Election Calendar
Anishinaabeg Today
Wednesday, May 6, 2026
June 9: General Election
(Polling Place open from 8 a.m. - 8 p.m.)
June 10: General Reservation Election Board certifies results of
Election. Prior to 8 p.m.
June 11: General Reservation Election Board publishes Election
results.
June 12: Deadline for Request for Recount. (Filed with General
Election Board prior to 5 p.m.).
June 16: 4:30 p.m. - Deadline for Notice of Contest. (Filed with
Reservation Election Judge and Executive Director of the
Minnesota Chippewa Tribe).
June 17: Decision on Request for Recount and Results of
Recount, if allowed (or June 16 if request for Recount is filed
before deadline).
June 26: Deadline for Decision on Contest for General Election
June 29: 4:30 p.m. - Deadline for appeal to Court of Election
Appeals. Filed with Executive Director of the Minnesota
Chippewa Tribe and Reservation Tribunal rendering Decision (or
within 3 days of decision of Contest).
July 1: Record of contest forwarded to Court of Election Appeals
(at least 2 days prior to the Hearing date).
July 6: Last Day for Hearing on Appeal. (Hearing within 7 days
notice of appeal).
July 14: Winning candidates assume office by operation of law,
unless sooner seated, or the election is subject of appeal to the
Court of Election Appeals.
July 16: Deadline for decision of Court of Elections Appeal. (Or
10 days from Hearing on Appeal)
Day following Decision of Appeal: Winning candidate prevailing
on appeal takes office.
GENERAL ELECTION WILL BE HELD JUNE 9, 2026
Protecting your feet and legs if you have diabetes
By Lisa Braun, RN
White Earth Nation Tribal Public Health
Why Foot and Leg Care Is Important
If you have diabetes, taking good care of your
feet and legs is essential. Diabetes can damage blood
vessels over time, making it harder for blood to circulate throughout your body. Poor circulation in the
legs and feet can cause pain, slow-healing sores, or
infections. Detecting and addressing these issues
early can help prevent serious complications.
The Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI) Test
One effective way to monitor your foot and leg
health is by getting an Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI)
test. The ABI test is a simple and painless procedure
that compares the blood pressure in your ankle to the
blood pressure in your arm. This comparison allows
doctors to assess how well blood flows in your legs.
The test is quick, safe, and does not require needles or surgery. A blood pressure cuff is placed on
your arms and ankles, and the results are then compared. Despite its simplicity, the ABI test provides
valuable information about your health and can
uncover circulation problems before you experience
any symptoms.
Benefits of Early Detection
The ABI test is an important tool for preventing
serious complications in people with diabetes. If circulation problems are detected, your doctor may suggest lifestyle changes, medications, or treatments to
improve blood flow. Taking these steps can reduce
your risk of infections, ulcers, or even amputations,
which are higher risks for individuals with diabetes.
Take Action for Your Health
Getting an ABI test is a small step that can have
a significant impact on your health. If you have diabetes, consider discussing this test with your doctor.
It can help keep your legs and feet healthy, give you
peace of mind, and prevent problems before they
start.
This service is offered by White Earth Nation
Tribal Public Health. You can call and ask for a nurse
in public health or email public.health@whiteearthnsn.gov. The team will be happy to assist you in making an appointment at a location near you.
Four community locations are available: White
Earth, Naytahwaush, Rice Lake, and Pine Point.
The White Earth Nation General Election is Tuesday, June 9 to 8 p.m.
Wednesday, May 6, 2026
Anishinaabeg Today
17
18
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
Anishinaabeg Today
Wednesday, May 6, 2026
WE Constitutional Reform Delegate Report
Aaniin, Boozhoo.
This month’s Delegates Report will continue to
provide information to White Earth Members regarding the Secretarial Election Process.
Why is this topic so important? For the people
of the Minnesota Chippewa Tribe (MCT) to make
changes to such areas as Membership, authorities of
the Tribal Executive Committee, or Tribal Elections,
etc., the current language must change.
Presently, the language is as follows: “This constitution may be revoked by Act of Congress or
amended or revoked by a majority vote of the qualified voters of the Tribe voting at an election called
for that purpose by the Secretary of the Interior if at
least 30 percent of those entitled to vote shall vote.
No amendment shall be effective until approved by
the Secretary of the Interior. It shall be the duty of the
Secretary to call an election when requested by twothirds of the Tribal Executive Committee.”
What this means is the Secretary of the Interior
has the authority to “approve” any/all amendments.
The White Earth Delegates are working jointly with
the other five MCT Reservation Delegates on this
matter. There is strong support from the Bureau of
Indian Affairs (BIA), Tribal Executive Committee
(TEC) and Reservation Business Committees (RBC)
and MCT Membership to remove the Secretary from
Article XII. There is even a stronger voice by all to
ensure this change is the people’s voice. A consistent
focus of these changes surround Checks and Balance,
Transparency and Accountability.
When removing the Secretary from Article XII,
we do remove a “Separation of Powers” Duty. The
Secretary has the duty to ensure and approve amendments or changes are within our constitution.
Allowing this duty to remain with the Secretary of
Interior is not allowing us to govern ourselves.
This is an important step we are taking, moving
forward with caution and attentiveness to the new
language is extremely important. The MCT
Delegates have been working on language for the
MCT Citizen Tribunal/Oversight Committee and
MCT Uniform Tribal Election Ordinance.
To improve communication, involvement and
accommodation for members but not taking up the
entire evening, please join us on a Zoom GetTogether on May 19 from 5-6 p.m. This will be held
once a week, for one hour and one topic of information pertaining to the Constitutional Reform.
Meeting ID: 892-6209-8227 Passcode: 569227
• The goal is more providers, shorter wait times,
and better care.
• The system will be locally controlled and
responsive to community needs.
• Eligibility for on-site services will remain the
same.
will be reviewed with the health board and answered
expediently. Please note that the health board will not
be able to answer questions about your current
patient care or PRC referrals at this time. The purpose of this is solely to answer questions about the
assumption process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Will I still be able to see my current provider?
A: Our goal is continuity of care. We are working to retain providers while also adding new ones.
Sincerely,
White Earth Tribal Health Systems Health Board
Updates from Page 7
Important Dates
• Targeted assumption date is October 1, 2026.
• Community information sessions will be
announced.
• CEO hiring is in process.
Giga-waabamin miinawaa/I’ll see you again,
White Earth Constitutional Reform Delegates
We understand this is an important change, and
we are committed to transparency every step of the
way.
We appreciate your support as we move forward
together to strengthen healthcare for our community.
Q: Will services change or be reduced?
A: No. The goal is to expand services and
improve access.
Q: Will this affect my benefits or eligibility?
A: No changes to patient eligibility are expected.
Services will continue to be available.
Q: Why is this better than staying with IHS?
A: Tribal management allows faster hiring, more
services, and care that reflects our community’s
needs.
Q: Who will be in charge of the clinics?
A: A healthcare CEO will be hired to oversee
operations, reporting to the Health Board.
Q: How can I learn more or share input?
A: Community information will be provided
electronically through WE social media accounts,
and the Anishinaabeg Today newspaper. You can also
contact the health board through email at healthboard@whiteearth-nsn.gov or you can call interim
health board member Nakoa Graff (218) 935-3818.
All questions regarding the assumption status
You can reach the Anishinaabeg Today at today@whiteearth-nsn.gov
Wednesday, May 6, 2026
Anishinaabeg Today
19
Photo by Sage Thompson
The White Earth Agricultural Department welcomes four new ‘Red Dogs’ to the bison family. They can be
seen at the Spence Farm near Naytahwaush.
White Earth Agriculture Department
offers mushroom hunts, welcomes four new bison
The White Earth Food Sovereignty and Security
Initiative (WEFSI) has been moving right along with
the seasons!
Now that the time in the sugar bush has passed,
our Food Sovereignty Coordinator, Nicole M.
LaFrinier, is planning Morel mushroom hunts, seed
distribution for individuals and community, offering
tilling services, and a limited number of raised beds.
If you have interest in learning more about Food
Sovereignty programming and events or would like
to know how WEFSI can help support your food projects, Nicole can be reached at 218-935-3562.
The White Earth bison herd is flourishing as
well. With our larger herd size and the increase in
snowpack over the past two years, we implemented a
new method for our supplemental winter hay feed-
ing. This past winter we used a hay processor and
found the results to be very successful yielding less
hay loss and better distribution of the feeding disturbance. By spreading the feeding over a broad area,
our soil will benefit from the returned nutrients producing healthier grass and healthier bison.
In conducting our twice per week herd and fence
inspection our Technician Jordan Brown and Bison
Foreman Jack Heisler discovered that the herd was
blessed with four new arrivals in April. The first calf
was born on April 17, and the second on April 23,
and the third on April 27, and the fourth on April 28.
Please, drive by the old Spence Farm bison pasture
and see if you can spot the ‘Red Dogs.’ The bison
family is now up to 44 members with more arrivals
expected, so you’ll need to look.
20
Anishinaabeg Today
John Clark Jr. inducted into the Minnesota
Football Coaches Association Hall of Fame
White Earth member John Clark Jr., was recently inducted in to the Minnesota Football Coaches
Hall of Fame during a banquet at the Doubletree
Hotel in Minneapolis. He was one of five coaches
selected for the High School Division.
“I feel honored and thankful to be inducted into
the Hall of Fame. I know I get the recognition, but
this is an award that goes to our entire football program. So many people have impacted the success of
our football team over the years that it's impossible to
thank all of them,” said Clark. “But I must say that
our program has been blessed with some of the best
coaches in all levels of our program, from varsity
level to junior high to elementary coaches and I thank
them all. My assistant coaches deserve as much credit as I do for this award.”
Clark is currently the Dean of Students at
Mahnomen High School and is head coach of the
Thunderbirds football team and the boys basketball
team. He was also Athletic Director for 20 years.
He is a 1990 graduate of Waubun High School.
He attended Northland Community College and then
Moorhead State University. He participated in four
sports at Northland: football, basketball, golf and
baseball. While at Northland, he won two JUCO state
titles, one in basketball and an individual golf title.
He is a member of the Northland Athletic Hall of
Fame. He graduated from Moorhead State with a
degree in Elementary Education and a minor in
Coaching.
Clark has coached a variety of sports at
Mahnomen High School. These include football, basketball, golf, and summer youth baseball. He was
head girls basketball coach for two years before
becoming the boys basketball coach for the past 23
years. His teams have one state tourney appearance
in basketball. He holds the school record for winning
percentage in a season with a record of 21-1 in the
2020-2021 season.
Clark coached junior high football in 1999, was
an assistant coach on the varsity in 2000, and took
over head coaching duties in 2001. In 25 seasons as
head coach, he has compiled a record of 238-48. His
teams have won 17 Section titles, three State titles
(2012, 2013, 2018), with one State Runner Up finish
(2011). The 2018 State Championship was extra special as his dad, Bomber, and brother, Paul, were
assistant coaches. He has been named Class A Coach
of the Year twice. John had the honor of being selected to coach twice in the Minnesota All Star game
under coaches Dwight Lundeen and Jeff Ferguson.
He has been married to his wife Jackie for 29
years. They have three children: Hallie, Sydney and
Carter. John and Jackie greatly enjoy spending time
with their kids, but two grandchildren (PJ and
Amiyah) rule the roost now.
When not coaching, you will find him on the
golf course or in a boat trying to catch walleyes with
his father. Clark feels extremely blessed with the
great coaching staff that he has, most have been there
for over 20 years. He says without hesitation that he
would not be here without them. They are life-long
friends, and he cherishes the camaraderie that they
have together.
“The biggest credit without a doubt goes to all of
the players past and present! Without all of their hard
work and dedication, this award does not happen.
Lastly, a heartfelt thank you to my family for all of
their support, sacrifice and patience allowing me to
be a coach!”
Wednesday, May 6, 2026
Ptown is in the House!
Submitted photo
White Earth Nation was represented at the recent Gathering of
Nations Pow Wow, “Last Dance” in Albuquerque, N.M. Pine Point
was in the house! Pictured from left are Linda Buckanaga, Vince
Beyl (emcee) and Patti Vizenor - all White Earth enrolled members. Vince gave us a loud shout out! This was the last Gathering
of Nations Pow Wow after 43 years.
Bio Girls complete 5k run
Photo by Jackie Haugo
Photo by Hallie Clark
White Earth member John Clark Jr. was recently inducted into the Minnesota Football Coaches Association
Hall of Fame. He was one of five coaches selected for the High School Division. Celebrating with Clark at
the induction banquet are his football coaches Steve McMullen, from left, Bob Larson, Todd Johnson, John
Clark Jr., Vize Bevins, Josh Kemper, and Jon Starkey.
The Mahnomen Chapter of Bio Girls completed their 5k run on
April 25 starting at Mahnomen Elementary parking lot. Bio Girls
(Beautiful Inside and Out) is a non-profit organization dedicated to
improving the self-esteem and mental health of girls in grades 26. The girls complete a 12- session program that combines mentorship, faith-based values, character building lessons and noncompetitive physical activity. Congratulations to all the girls and
their mentors, they completed the walk/run and proved that they
can do hard things. White Earth Tribal Public Health provided the
water, snacks and prizes for the girls after the race.
Anishinaabeg Today
Wednesday, May 6, 2026
Photo by Abby Fostveit / Detroit Lakes Tribune
Jayson Belland and Amera Annette at Detroit Lakes High School.
Jayson Belland and Amera Annette honored by
the Minnesota Indian Education Association
By Abby Fostveit
Detroit Lakes Tribune
Two Detroit Lakes seniors, both of the White
Earth Nation, have earned statewide honors from the
Minnesota Indian Education Association, each crediting their success to a blend of cultural identity, discipline and community support.
Amera Annette, a senior at the Detroit Lakes
Area Learning Center, was named Outstanding
Student of the Year by the MIEA Board of Directors.
Jayson Belland, a senior at Detroit Lakes High
School, was recognized as Male Student Athlete of
the Year, recognizing a career spanning four sports,
music and academic clubs.
Leadership and resilience shape Annette’s path
Holmquist, the college and career facilitator
with the American Indian Education Department at
Detroit Lakes High School, said Annette’s leadership
stands out among her peers.
“(Annette's) peers appreciate her energy and
enthusiasm as well as her passion for her Ojibwe culture. I would consider Amera a leader amongst her
peers, leading with a kind heart,” Holmquist wrote in
a recommendation letter.
Annette’s path to the Outstanding Student award
was anything but easy. She completed a certified
nursing assistant program while working, juggling
coursework and job schedules.
“It was super busy, but it was also worth it in the
end, because I was able to buy myself a vehicle and
get all that stuff done,” she said, adding that her mom
was one of her biggest motivators.
Annette has attended the ALC since her sophomore year and said receiving the Outstanding
Student of the Year recognition came as a surprise.
“It was really unexpected, but it felt really
good,” she said.
Her future plans build on that same drive.
Inspired first by her mother, who is a nurse, Annette
initially considered nursing before finding a more
specific interest in dental hygiene.
“My mom's a nurse, and she works in a nursing
home in Mahnomen, and she told me about the CNA
job and it interested me,” Annette said. “I did want to
do nursing, but I want to be a dental hygienist now.”
Part of that interest, she admitted, comes from
how seriously she takes her own oral health.
“I really like to take care of my teeth,” she said,
emphasizing the importance of oral hygiene for overall health.
Annette plans to complete her prerequisites
through M State in Detroit Lakes, if the campus
remains open , before transferring.
“I want to do my prerequisites through M State
here in Detroit Lakes. … (Holmquist) brought us on
a really nice tour to M State Moorhead, and that's
where I want to go and get into their program.”
Her motivation is also deeply tied to her Ojibwe
identity. Annette said her dad gave her her Ojibwe
name, Memengwaa, meaning butterfly.
She spent time both in Pine Point and Detroit
Lakes and grew up regularly attending ceremonies.
Her pride in her culture is evident in her participation
in the American Indian Student Council and extends
into how she teaches and learns alongside family.
“I’ve taught a lot of my younger cousins and my
friends, and it's fun when they teach me too,” she
said, noting that her older brother works at White
Earth Tribal and Community College and is fluent in
Ojibwe.
Ceremonies like powwows and pipe ceremonies
are especially meaningful to her. She mentioned
Mike Swan, a pillar of the community and longtime
cultural liaison for Detroit Lakes Public Schools,
who died Feb. 9, as a beloved mentor.
“Pipe ceremonies were really fun when (Swan)
was leading them in Pine Point,” she said.
Dedication, balance define Belland’s achievements
For Belland, the Male Student Athlete of the
Year award recognizes a high school experience
See Students Page 22
“No matter how far someone falls,
it is always possible to rise again”
21
Matthew Bowstring Sr. knows what it means to lose everything
and what it takes to build it back.
At one point in his life, Matthew was battling a meth addiction
and living in a tent outside his parents’ home. Those were some of
his darkest days, marked by instability, hardship, and the weight of
difficult choices. But even in that place, something in him refused to
give up. He made the decision to change his life.
Sobriety became his foundation, and with it came the long, difficult process of rebuilding. Matthew committed himself to growth
not just for his own future, but for his children. He is a proud father
of three children from Leech Lake including his twin daughters and
his oldest son, who has since made him a grandfather and two young
boys in White Earth. Rebuilding those relationships has been one of
the most meaningful parts of his journey. Today, he is present in their
lives, working to be the father and role model they deserve, creating
new memories and strengthening bonds that once felt out of reach.
Coming to White Earth from Leech Lake, Matthew didn’t know
what to expect. What he found was more than a fresh start he found
a community. Along the way, he built lifelong friendships with people he now considers family, relationships he holds close to his
heart. He believes that without coming to White Earth, he would not
be the person he is today.
Along the way, Matthew also found love and support in his
partner, Raven, who has been an important part of his journey forward. Together, they are building a life grounded in stability, healing, and hope.
Today, Matthew is focused on his future. He is nearing completion of his current studies and has been accepted to attend Bemidji
State University this fall. His journey from homelessness and addiction to higher education reflects not only determination, but a deep
commitment to growth, leadership, and giving back. Those who
know Matthew describe him as someone who leads with heart, stays
grounded in his values, and uses his story to inspire others who may
be facing similar struggles.
Matthew Bowstring Sr.’s story is one of sobriety, perseverance,
and second chances a reminder that no matter how far someone falls,
it is always possible to rise again. I live this motto everyday of my
life and that motto is “one day at a time” aho many miigz.
Photo by Shannon Eck / Lens Lilly Photography
22
Students from Page 21
defined by participation across courts, fields, tracks
and stages. At one point, he balanced boxing, soccer, track and cross-country at the same time.
“It would get hectic a lot, balancing three
sports at one time,” he said, adding that the recognition, which came with a scholarship, was a validating moment. “Getting the award, getting a $500
scholarship was really nice, and it shows how that
dedication is really, really rewarding.”
From childhood, Belland said he gravitated
toward staying active. He spent much of his time
outdoors and eventually channeled that energy into
sports, joining baseball, basketball and especially
soccer teams. Over time, he added track, as classmates encouraged him to try it. Basketball
remained in the picture for eight years, but soccer
has been the longest-running thread — he said he
has played for nearly 14 years.
The schedule behind that level of involvement
required intentional structure.
“Valuing that downtime and making sure
you're using all of that downtime you have to
regroup is important,” he said. “I started scheduling
my day, and that has really helped a lot more. But
this year is a lot busier for me with sports and activities.”
Belland is also an accomplished musician, having picked up the saxophone in elementary school.
“I just grew up around a lot of music,” he said.
“My uncle used to have a guitar collection, and I've
always been around music with my mom blasting
music, same with my uncle.”
Anishinaabeg Today
Looking ahead, Belland plans to play soccer at
the University of Minnesota Morris while preparing
for a business career. The financial support available to enrolled tribal members was a major factor.
“I want to do accounting or finance when I'm
older, if soccer doesn't get me anywhere,” he said.
Belland also traces much of his motivation
back to his Ojibwe culture and family traditions.
“Ever since I was young, my mom would take
me to powwows,” he said. “All the funerals I've
been around have been the traditional Ojibwe
funerals. I got my Ojibwe name when I was about
nine or 10, I think, and that's a ceremony, too.”
His name was given to him by Swan: Giniw,
meaning golden eagle.
“I gave him tobacco. He dreamt of a golden
eagle flying around, and he knew that was probably
for me,” Belland said.
Belland stays connected through activities like
the Native American Quiz Bowl team, which helps
spread culture and language throughout the district.
“When we do (Quiz Bowl) meets, that spreads
our Ojibwe culture. We welcome anybody to
attend, and we also go to the younger kids to have
them join,” he said. “You don't have to be Native or
Ojibwe or anything. We want people to keep joining, to keep spreading the culture.”
He also looks forward to marking graduation
with the Eagle Feather ceremony.
“Being able to wear (an eagle feather) to graduation on your cap is really significant,” he said.
Wednesday, May 6, 2026
Wednesday, May 6, 2026
White Earth Food Shelf
May 2026 Delivery Schedule
Anishinaabeg Today
Applications are available at Community Centers, ENP sites and Naytahwaush Complex
Hours are subject to change due to weather and holidays
Feel free to contact the White Earth Food Shelf at 218-935-6313 or 218-935-6314
Please note you may go to any of our stops to pick up a food box, you don’t have to reside in that area
White Earth Food Shelf Hours are 10 a.m. to noon
DDP helps reinstate driver’s license
The Minnesota Department of Public
Safety Driver Diversion Program (DDP)
was developed to support participants in
paying outstanding citations and fulfilling
state designated requirements necessary to
reinstate a driver’s license.
- Judgments must be paid to enter program
- Fleeing an officer
- Canceled IPS (Inimical to Public
Safety)
- 5th degree felony
- Theft of motor vehicle
- DUI or DWI - before hard revocation
is complete
Minimum requirements
- Approved by Driver and Vehicle
Services (DVS)
- Payment plans for fines and fees
- Participate in training
- Acquire and maintain insurance
- Must not have any major violations
while in program
WE General
Election Board
To determine if you are eligible to participate, contact Diversion Solutions:
Phone: 651-385-4341
Website: www.diversionsolutions.net
Mail: 301 South 4th Ave, #670-N,
Minneapolis, MN 55415
Program ineligibility
- Cannot be enrolled in Partial Pay
Program to be eligible for DDP
- Criminal Vehicular Operation (CVO)
- Owe child support without payment
plan
White Earth Election Office
777 SE Casino Drive
Mahnomen, MN 56557
electionboard@whiteearth-nsn.gov
218-936-5622 or 1-866-211-9154
Hours: Monday through Friday
8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Absentee Ballot
PO Box 99,
Mahnomen, MN 56557
23
24
Anishinaabeg Today
Wednesday, May 6, 2026
Wednesday, May 6, 2026
(Sample)
Anishinaabeg Today
GENERAL ELECTION NOTICE
White Earth
Absentee Ballot Request Form
A General Minnesota Chippewa Tribal Election of the White Earth Reservation Business
Committee a/k/a Tribal Council will be held on June 9, 2026 to fill the following positions:
Full Name:__________________________________________
CANDIDATES FOR DISTRICT I COMMITTEEPERSON - 4 Year Term
Henry G. Fox (incumbent), and Andy “Jack” Auginaush
Please send an Absentee Ballot for the upcoming White
Earth election set for June, 9, 2026
Date of Birth:_______________________________________
Email:_____________________________________________
Phone:_____________________________________________
Address: ___________________________________________
___________________________________________________
District 1________ District 2__________ District 3_________
FIRST TIME VOTERS; you may select a District.
If you choose not to select a District, you will receive a ballot to
vote for only the at-large position.
* Once your district is declared you cannot change your District
until you move back to the new district 30 days prior to the election, until then you will only be allowed to vote in the District you
select. The Enrollment Office has an Address Request Form you
will need to fill out. The boundaries are listed as follows:
District 1: North of State Highway 200
District 2: From State Highway 200 to State Highway 113
District 3: South of State Highway 113
Signature:__________________________________________
Printed Name:_______________________________________
IMPORTANT INFORMATION:
*Absentee voters in the Primary Election will automatically be
mailed a ballot for the General Election held on June 9, 2026.
Send submissions to:
White Earth Election Board
PO Box 99
Mahnomen, MN 56557
Contact:
electionboard@whiteearth-nsn.gov
218-936-5622
Toll free: 866-211-9154
White Earth
Election Board
218-936-5622 / Toll-free: 866-211-9154
Email: electionboard@whiteearth-nsn.gov
Or by mail at:
White Earth Election Board
PO Box 99, Mahnomen, MN 56557
The Election Board is located behind the Shooting Star
Casino in the old RV Park building.
Election Board Hours
Monday-Friday:
8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
25
CANDIDATES FOR SECRETARY-TREASURER - 4 Year Term
Michael “Mike” LaRoque (incumbent), and Jacob McArthur
CANDIDATES FOR DISTRICT II COMMITTEEPERSON - 4 Year Term
Alrick “Son” Accobee, and Sheri Kay Snetsinger
White Earth General Election Board
Shooting Star Casino RV Office, 777 SE Casino Drive, Mahnomen, MN 56557
Phone: 218-936-5622 / Toll Free: 866-211-9154 / email: electionboard@whiteearth-nsn.gov
ABSENTEE BALLOT VOTING
PO Box 99, Mahnomen, MN 56557
Absentee Request cards may be sent to: electionboard@whiteearth-nsn.gov
POLLING PLACES:
DISTRICT I:
Bejou - Community Center, Main Street
Pine Bend - Church Parking Lot, 320th Avenue
Rice Lake - Community Center (Rice Lake Village) County Road 35
DISTRICT II:
Mahnomen - Tribal College, 2250 College Road
Naytahwaush - Fire Hall, County Road 4
Waubun - Community Center, 1004 Central Avenue
DISTRICT III:
Callaway - Community Center, Highway 59
Ogema - VFW Hall, Main Street East
White Earth - Community Center, Martin Drive
Elbow Lake - Elderly Nutrition Center, (Elbow Lake Village)
Pine Point - Communuity Center (old school)
MARBLE, MN
Marble City Hall (Community Center)
302 Alice Avenue
MINNEAPOLIS
American Indian Center
1530 East Franklin Avenue
CASS LAKE, MN
White Earth Family Office
220 2nd Street NW
POLLS OPEN: 8 a.m. / POLLS CLOSE: 8 p.m.
Voting eligibly for White Earth Primary Election
1.6(A) Judging Qualifications
Each Band governing body will be the sole judge
of the constitutional qualifications of its voters and
may, by official action, delegate this responsibility to
its General Reservation Election Board.
1.6 (B) Eligibility to Vote: Generally
Eligible voters are enrolled members of the Tribe,
18 years of age or over. All Eligible voters shall vote
by secret ballot. To be eligible to cast a ballot a voter
must meet all constitutional requirements. In addition,
to be eligible to cast a vote for Committeeperson, a
voter must have resided within that district for at least
thirty (30) days immediately preceding the election,
unless the voter casts an absentee ballot as permitted
by this Ordinance.
1.6 (C) Eligibility to Vote: Absentee
Whenever, due to absence from the reservation,
illness or physical disability, an eligible voter is not
able to vote at the polls and notifies the General
Election Board consistent with this Ordinance, he/she
will be entitled to vote by absentee ballot in the manner and under the procedures as provided by Section
2.2(B). To cast an absentee ballot for
Committeeperson, an eligible voter must have resided
within that district for a period of at least thirty (30)
days as his/her last reservation residence. In the event
an eligible voter has never resided on the reservation
of his/her enrollment, he/she must declare in his/her
request which district has been selected in which to
cast the ballot for Committeeperson.
If an eligible voter does not and has not previously designated a district, that eligible voter may cast an
absentee ballot that includes only the at-large positions up for election.
Once a voter has resided in or declared a district,
the voter may not thereafter change his/her district for
absentee voting purposes without actually residing
within a different district on his/her reservation of
enrollment for at least thirty (30) consecutive days
immediately preceding the election.
Anishinaabeg Today
26
Wednesday, May 6, 2026
Application and Participant Rules for
Junior and Senior Princess and Brave Contests
158th Annual White Earth Celebration
June 12, 13 and 14, 2026
Deadline for submission of completed applications with documentation is
12 p.m. (noon) on Monday, June 8, 2026 to allow for verification of eligibility
● All portions of the princess and brave contests will begin at the 1 p.m. Grand Entry on Friday, June 12,
2026.
● This includes but is not limited to interviews, verification of eligibility, self-introduction at Powwow, and
dance competition scoring. Please note that an introduction in our language is beneficial to the contestants.
● All applicants and their parents/guardians agree, through submission of their signed application, that the
contestant:
1. Pledges to live a crime, drug and alcohol-free lifestyle at all times prior to and during their reign as
princess or brave, including but not limited to their social media presence.
2. Continues with successful academics and maintains a positive role within their school and community, including social media.
3. Is unmarried, may not have any pregnancies past, present or during the year that the participant holds
the title of princess or brave.
4. Is an enrolled member or descendant of White Earth Reservation, documentation required.*
5. Resides on or within 25 miles of the White Earth Reservation presently and during the reigning year,
documentation required.**
a. If a princess or brave moves, it is the family/guardian’s responsibility to contact the committee
immediately.
6. Is age 9-12 for Junior title, or age 13-17 for Senior title.
7. Is willing to represent the White Earth Reservation throughout the reigning year by traveling to and
dancing at other powwows.***
8. Cannot hold any other title of royalty while applying for or holding the title of White Earth Princess
or Brave.
9. Will only be awarded the title of White Earth Celebration Princess or Brave once in their lifetime.
10. Will immediately relinquish his or her title to the first runner-up if White Earth Pow Wow
Committee finds the princess or brave to violate these rules. Relinquishment includes returning of crown
and/or sash to the White Earth Pow Wow Committee.
● Applications are available at the White Earth RBC Headquarters, via email, and in the Anishinaabeg
Today newspaper.
● Application and documentation materials must be filled out completely and submitted to Jon Weaver
by noon on Monday, June 8 to be verified by the White Earth Pow Wow Committee and White Earth
Enrollment Office.
● Please mail completed application and documentation to White Earth Pow Wow Committee, PO Box 418,
White Earth, MN 56591. Contact Jon Weaver at jon.weaver@whiteearth-nsn.gov (218-936-3698) or Brian
Clark, Powwow Committee Chairman, at brian.clark@whiteearth-nsn.gov with questions or concerns. Do
not rely on social media for communication.
5 Sr. Princess
5 Jr. Princess
5 Sr. Brave
Please Print Clearly
5 Jr. Brave
Full Legal Name________________________________Birth Date________________Clan_______________
Address__________________________________________________________________________________
Street (and PO Box if used for mailing purposes)
City
Zip Code
Phone number____________________________Additional phone number_____________________________
School_______________________________________________________Grade in 2025/26______________
Enrolled Contestant’s White Earth enrollment #________________________________________________, or
Descendant Contestant’s Enrolled Parent or Grandparent:
Thank You
The Dave Caspers Memorial Scholarship Banquet Committee
extends its sincere gratitude to the many generous donors who made our
April event a tremendous success. Thanks to your support, we have
awarded more than $20,000 in scholarships to our Waubun graduating
seniors - an investment in their futures that reflects the very best of our
community.
We are truly fortunate to be part of such a caring and supportive
community. Your generosity makes a lasting difference.
Please mark your calendars for next year’s event:
April 17, 2027
Ogema Community Center
Thank you!
_________________________________________________________________________________________
Full Legal Name
Birth Date
WE Enrollment #
I, ___________________________________________________ understand and comply with the above-stated
conditions for application to the White Earth Princess/Brave title. My parents/guardian and I understand and
agree to have the above information verified by the White Earth Pow Wow Committee. This form gives the
above-named school and the White Earth RBC permission to release and verify information entered on this
form. I also agree that all information above is true and correct to the best of my knowledge.
___________________________________________________________________________
Participant Signature
Printed Name
Date
_______________________________________________________________
Custodial Parent/Guardian Signature
Printed Name
Date
WEPC Only: 5 Verified eligible by WE Enrollments:___________________________ Date:__________
Wednesday, May 6, 2026
Anishinaabeg Today
27
Meet the Candidates for White Earth Secretary-Treasurer
Michael “Mike” LaRoque (Incumbent)
Boozhoo White Earth Nation,
Since June 2022, the Tribal Council has taken steps to
strengthen financial management, expand direct benefits to
members, and advance Tribal sovereignty through land, natural resources, and infrastructure
development. I want to share some
of the work that has been completed
during this term.
White Earth maintained balanced budgets for two consecutive
years (2024–2025) without requiring amendments. This has allowed
programs and services to operate
consistently while supporting longterm planning. As a result of that
work, the Nation was able to provide
a $300 health and safety distribution to every enrolled adult
tribal member in 2025.
Support for elders has also been expanded. In 2025,
elder benefits included a $100 yearly holiday gift, $50
monthly casino credits, free trash service, and $25 monthly
food coupons.
In November 2025, the Tribal Council adopted a formal
financial data request procedure. This process allows members to request information securely while protecting sensitive business data.
Support for urban members has continued as well.
Transportation assistance was provided to help members
attend community events, and annual funding was directed
to off-reservation community councils to support youth programming and cultural activities.
The Nation has also made progress in land recovery and
natural resource management. Since 2021, White Earth has
purchased over 4,500 acres of land, including both on-reservation and off-reservation acquisitions.
In February 2026, the Nation entered into a co-management agreement with the Minnesota Department of Natural
Resources for the White Earth State Forest, with additional
work underway related to the Tamarac National Wildlife
Refuge.
The Reservation Business Committee also established
the White Earth Regional Taskforce to address water monitoring and enforcement across a seven-county region. In
addition, the Tribal Utilities Commission was established to
oversee electric, gas, and telecommunications infrastructure
within reservation boundaries.
Economic development and infrastructure projects have
continued across multiple sectors. White Earth Builders
completed several major projects, including the Men’s Acute
Care Facility, Pine Point Clinic, and multiple Elder Tiny
Homes in Rice Lake, NayTahWaush, White Earth, and Pine
Point.
At the March Reservation Business Committee meeting,
the Council updated the Tribal TERO prevailing wage to
support tribal member-owned businesses and strengthen the
local economy. The Nation has also supported workforce initiatives such as Bam’idizowigamig Creator’s Place in Pine
Point, which provides hands-on training and employment for
tribal members in areas like construction and small business
development. Programs like this help remove barriers to
employment and support long-term economic stability for
individuals and families.
The Nation also continued to expand its business operations, including Waabigwan Mashkiki and the Mashkode
Bizhikii (bison herd). During the 2025 wild rice season, over
300,000 pounds of manoomin were purchased from local
harvesters, returning more than $1.7 million to the community.
Investments in infrastructure and technology have also
been made, including new phone systems, server updates,
and expanded Wi-Fi access at the NayTahWaush and White
Earth powwow grounds. A new public transit facility is also
under development.
In the area of community services, the Nation opened
the first tribally operated Child Advocacy Center in
Minnesota and expanded childcare facilities. During the
COVID-19 response, the Nation coordinated emergency
operations and provided approximately $2.8 million in rental
and utility assistance to more than 800 households.
Cultural preservation efforts have also continued,
including Ojibwe language signage and support for traditional healing and language programs.
At the state and federal level, the Nation secured funding for tribal programs and supported efforts to expand tribal
land rights.
Over the past four years, the Tribal Council has worked
together in a collaborative and respectful way to move projects forward and make steady progress for the Nation. When
leadership is able to communicate and stay focused, it allows
programs to grow, infrastructure to develop, and long-term
plans to take shape. Continuity in leadership plays an important role in maintaining that progress. As this work continues, it is important to keep moving forward in a way that
builds on what has already been accomplished and avoids
unnecessary setbacks that can come with disruption or delay.
Boozhoo! I want to say miigwech to all who supported
me in the primary election where I emerged as the top candidate for Secretary Treasurer. I am so grateful for all your
support. Let’s keep this momentum
going into the general election in
June! I encourage you all to vote
early, and to request your absentee
ballots as soon as you can. For those
who voted for other candidates, I ask
that you give me another chance to
change your mind. Together we can
affect positive change and bring
back transparency, sound financial
stewardship, and open government
to White Earth.
About Me
I am Jacob “Giniw” McArthur and I am a lifelong resident of the Naytahwaush community, where I was raised by
my mother, Darla Kier, and my aunt and uncle, LaVerne and
Dennis Hisgun Sr. I am a dedicated father of two, Jacob and
Hazel, and I am an avid outdoors enthusiast and photographer.
Education
I graduated from Waubun High School and subsequently continued my education at the White Earth Tribal and
Community College (WETCC), obtaining an Associate of
Arts degree in 2020. In 2021, I earned both a Bachelor of
Business Administration and a Master of Business
Administration (MBA) at Bemidji State University. During
this period, I gained a deep understanding of the importance
of higher education and its broader implications for the
future of our band.
Work and Leadership Experience
My work experience began at the Shooting Star Casino,
after which I joined the White Earth RBC, where I was
employed for 16 years from September 2007 to August
2023. During my tenure, I gained experience in tribal housing, human services, RBC IT, WETCC IT, and served most
recently as Economic Development Director from
September 2022 to August 2023. I then transitioned to the
University of Minnesota Crookston (UMC), where I held a
dual appointment as Director of the University EDA Center
and Associate Director of the Veden Center for Rural
Development. In this leadership role, I drove economic and
workforce development in the state's northwest region by
building partnerships and innovative programs for students,
entrepreneurs, businesses, rural communities, and tribal partners. I am excited to bring my business and finance experience to this elected position.
In addition to my professional background, I possess
extensive experience serving on tribal, regional, state, and
national boards. For the past three years, I have held the
position of Vice-Chair for the White Earth Tribal Utility
Commission, and I’ve also represented White Earth on the
State Department of Commerce’s Tribal Advisory Council
on Energy. My previous board experience includes membership on the WETCC Board of Trustees, West Central
Initiative Board of Directors, White Earth Enterprises and
Waabigwan boards, and other appointments.
I have served as a Student Ambassador for the American
Indian College Fund, and I've also had the distinction of
being a member of the Native Governance Center's Native
Nation Rebuilders Cohort 12. These were both formative
and invaluable multi-year experiences that have helped
shape me into the leader I am today.
My Platform and Priorities
My platform is rooted in a commitment to honest financial stewardship, open communication with our people, creating opportunities for others, and bold investments in our
tribe’s future. I stand for trust, transparency, and tribal prosperity. I will ensure that every dollar is accounted for, that
tribal members have clear access to financial information,
and that we prioritize budgets and policies that support:
• business development and job creation
• education and youth program development
• elder, workforce, and transitional housing
• healthcare
• renewable energy
• sustainable food systems
• cultural revitalization
• safe and vibrant communities
Open government: We will put out full agendas for our
monthly RBC meetings and that include time for public
comments and minimizing the use of closed-door executive
sessions. This includes community engagement meetings
and requests for public comment when it comes to making
big decisions that affect our band.
Transparency: I support our membership’s right to
know the band’s financial position. What is the state of all
tribal enterprises, including Waabigwan? What is the return
on our investment into these businesses? How are decisions
Miigwech,
Michael (Mike) LaRoque
Secretary-Treasurer
Jacob McArthur
See McArthur Page 35
Anishinaabeg Today
28
Wednesday, May 6, 2026
Meet the Candidates for White Earth District I Rep.
Andy “Jack” Auginaush
BOOZHOO Everyone,
Andy “Jack” Auginaush here with a update,
I want to say Miigwetch to everyone who supported
and voted for me in the primary election. I truly appreciate
all of you including all those who helped in different areas.
As we move forward to the general election, I hope to
continue building support from our
members. Please feel free to reach
out with any questions or concerns,
I am always open to listening and
learning. My contact information is
listed at the bottom.
My passion for running is to
serve ALL our District 1 members
and ensure our people have a voice
at the table and that our members
are treated equally and fairly in all
areas and that our elders are heard.
We may be the smallest district, but I will make sure our
voices are heard, both on and off the reservation, while
respectfully working with the council as a whole for the
betterment of the White Earth Reservation.
Adocating for Rights, Transparency & Accountability
• Upholding the MCT Constitution and protecting
Article 12 and Article 13 member rights
• Defending members’ rights to access information and
transparent decision-making
• Advocating for public agendas, meaningful participation, and open monthly RBC meetings
• Speaking out against unconstitutional amendments
that weaken member voice
• Standing up for members when voices are challenged
at RBC meetings
• Supporting strong checks and balances in tribal government
• Advocating for working-class members to attend
RBC meetings and exercise Article 13 rights without fear of
retaliation
• Supporting amending the employee policy and
removing the “At Will Policy”
Transportation & Access
• Advocating for a tribal driver’s license support program
• Helping members overcome licensing and transportation barriers
• Expanding transportation options for work, school,
medical care, and off-shift workers
• Reservation Uber Drivers
• Strengthening transit services, including advocating
for 24/7 transit routes
Advocating for Community, Culture & Opportunity
• Protecting treaty rights to hunt, fish, gather, and rice
• Supporting member-driven input on regulations
• Strengthening Ojibwemowin language and cultural
curriculum
• Supporting elders, youth, veterans, and working families
• Advocating for a monthly per capita support for
elders and disabled Adults
• Ensuring access to traditional foods for elders
Wild Rice Advocacy
• Fair treatment and pricing for harvesters
• Protecting wild rice as a treaty resource
• Supporting stronger markets for future generations
• Advocated in 2019 that sparked the market for a top
price on rice for our members
Economic & Community Support
• Fair access to tribal economic opportunities including
band members to join the cannabis industry or any other
industry our tribe establishes (Article 13 – equal participation in our economic resources)
• Better member discounts at our dispensaries
• Expanded use of community centers
• Support for members returning from treatment/incar-
ceration
• Expanded childcare and prevention programs
• Supporting community gardens
Open Door Commitment
“Representation does not end after Election Day or
after 4:30 pm. If you have a concern, need help, or are facing an emergency, I will listen and do my best to help or
connect you with the right resources.” – open door policy
• Held over 100 support groups in District 1
• Helped Established PRESS pages for transparency,
accountability and outreach
• Pending constitutional challenges for member rights
• I take pride in being an ojibwemowin hymnal singer
• Established community clean ups with adults and
youth
Our members have constitutional rights to access information, understand decisions being made, and participate in
meaningful ways especially our elders. “Our tribal businesses are our band members businesses.”
Transportation continues to be a barrier for many, I
support efforts to expand transportation options and help
members overcome challenges related to licensing and
mobility so that our members have that extra advocacy to
help our members overcome transportation barriers. This is
essential.
Protecting our culture and supporting our adult and
youth is a priority. Our treaty rights to hunt, fish, gather,
and rice must be respected and protected for future generations including helping implement more culture based
activities in our youth and adult programs. I support
strengthening Ojibwemowin language in our schools,
including the Minnesota Chippewa tribe constitution and
By laws to be taught to our kids in our schools. Ensuring
that our elders, youth, and working families feel supported
and valued. “Our elders carry knowledge and deserve
Boozhoo, as the tribal election approaches, I, Henry
Fox, the current District 1 Representative, am seeking
reelection with a continued commitment to serving our
community and strengthening the future of our tribe.
Building on my time in office, I
want to highlight the work I have
accomplished while continuing to
move forward with a vision focused
on accountability, service, and community well-being. During my candidacy and throughout my time in
office, I have made it a priority to
help community members in any
way I can. I have worked to remain
accessible and responsive, connecting directly with individuals and
families to ensure their needs are heard and addressed. I
believe in taking a hands-on approach and stepping in to
find solutions whenever possible, because leadership
means being present and involved.
One of my key accomplishments during my first term
was working with Dynamic Homes to successfully place
and fill 10 elder tiny homes within our community. This
effort provided safe and comfortable housing for our elders,
ensuring they have a secure place to live while staying con-
nected to the community. I believe housing remains a critical need, and I am committed to continuing efforts that support stable and accessible living options. I have also been
actively involved in the Elder Homeowner Repair Program.
Through this program, I have helped many elders improve
the condition of their homes by addressing necessary
repairs and ensuring safer living environments. Supporting
our elders in maintaining their independence and quality of
life is something I take great pride in. In addition, I have
worked to help many families repair or replace furnaces so
they could stay warm during the winter months.
I continue to stress the importance of investing in both
our youth and our elders. I support expanding programs that
create opportunities for young people while maintaining
strong support systems for elders. Our youth are our future,
and our elders are the foundation of our culture and knowledge. Strengthening both is essential to preserving our identity and building a stronger future.
In addition to my role as District 1 Representative, I
have served on the 1855 Treaty Board as Vice-Chair since
2023 and on the Mash-Ka-Wisen Treatment Center
Advisory Board since 2022. I am honored to represent our
people in these roles and to advocate for their needs, rights,
and well-being.
Economic development remains an important part of
my platform. I support responsible growth that creates job
opportunities while respecting our tribal values and land.
By encouraging local entrepreneurship and building strong
partnerships, I aim to help create a more sustainable and
self-sufficient economy.
See Auginaush Page 35
Henry G. Fox (Incumbent)
Transparency and communication are central to how I
lead. I am committed to keeping community members
informed and involved in decision-making. I believe leadership should always be accountable and reflective of the
people it serves, and I will continue to prioritize open communication.
I also recognize the importance of addressing social
challenges within our community. I support initiatives
focused on mental health, substance abuse prevention, and
family wellness, and I believe building strong support systems is essential to our overall well-being.
I am honored by the trust community members have
placed in me and will continue working hard to serve
District 1. As election day approaches, I encourage all eligible voters to participate. With proven experience and dedication, I am seeking reelection to continue the work we
have started and help build a stronger future for our community.
Miigwech
Anishinaabeg Today
Wednesday, May 6, 2026
29
Meet the Candidates for White Earth District II Rep.
Sheri Kay Snetsinger
• Naytahwaush Community Charter School FullService Team - 2025-2026 (Current)
• Lived Experience Advocacy Network member –
2025-2026 (Current)
• Northwest Mn Continuum of Care – 2026 (Current)
Our culture, traditions & ways of life will thrive if we
stand by the fact that Tribal Sovereignty is non-negotiable.
Treaty rights & Indigenous rights must be applied and
upheld so that all Indigenous peoples, children, and Elders
are able to live a full life free from violence, intimidation
and fear on & off reservation. We must work towards stopping the pandemic of MMIR. Our Indigenous
LGBTQIA2S+ relatives must be treated with dignity & free
from targeted violence & discrimination. I am currently
consulting with the Dept of Public Safety because we need
to be at every table that affects our lives advocating for justice & our safety. I will always push for mandatory trainings, additional funding & investigations.
I will work to restore traditional matriarchal leadership
in community health and development through community
programming. Our women are sacred & we must strengthen
our connection to the caregivers of our community, who
paved the way for resilience and strength for our survival.
Respecting our grandparents as they hold the knowledge of
generations past means protecting them, safely housing
them, providing healthcare to fit their needs, community
engagement, providing adequate/affordable transportation,
and financial planning. Developing Elder hubs & housing
in communities for our aging members to connect with supports & programming is key.
Boozhoo, Gaa-Waabaabiganikaag Anishinaabeg,
My name is Sheri Kay Snetsinger, and I am asking for
your informed vote at the polls this General Election – June
9, 2026. I will respectfully serve the voices & values of
District 2 and the White Earth Band
with not only my heart but with my
honesty, dedication and moral
courage. While building strong
relationships alongside our community, Tribal, state and federal leaders, I will strive to create safer,
healthier communities throughout
the reservation & our urban spaces.
I have experience at the local,
Tribal and state level advocating for
our people, housing, & justice. I
believe in open communication, open doors and honest
accountability. As your representative, I will always:
• Defend Tribal Sovereignty
• Advance Safety & Justice
• Respect & Support Elders
• Empower & Educate Youth
• Honor & Secure LGBTQIA2S+ Rights
• Preserve & Protect Language & Culture
• Advocate for Unsheltered & Housing Stabilization
• Promote Entrepreneurship & Economic Development
• Protect Sacred Sites, Niibi, Lands & Natural
Resources
• Support Prevention, Treatment & Ongoing Recovery
Wellbriety
Due to my employment at the Shooting Star Casino,
working as Student Success Coach at the White Earth
Tribal Community College and my 10+ years within the
White Earth RBC Human Service Dept, I am fully aware of
the programs which are assisting, which need adjustments
to better serve our members, and which supports need to be
developed. I am aware that we as a tribe do not have all the
answers, but I know how to listen & serve our members
who are navigating these difficult times. I regularly network with staff to learn more about programming, funding
opportunities and the resources needed to best serve our
membership. I will support their safety, work-life balance,
professional development & competitive pay while providing key mentorship opportunities, a positive, inclusive
environment and supportive management. Staff will also
have an open-door policy with me.
Aside from working full-time for the Tribe, I’m dedicated to supporting & empowering our families as a volunteer in our communities. Identifying & addressing public
concerns aimed at improving our quality of life increases
our pride in ourselves as well as strengthening our sovereignty. My past & current volunteer positions include:
• Mahnomen County Salvation Army Board - 20182026 (Current)
• Naytahwaush Community Council – 2020-2026
(Current)
• Boys & Girls Clubs of Detroit Lakes & Perham volunteer - 2018-2026 (Current)
• Boys & Girls Club of White Earth Reservation Board
– 2023-2026 (Current)
• Twin Lakes Township Board Supervisor B – 20242026 (Current)
• White Earth Program & Community Advisory Board
– 2025-2026 (Current)
Boozhoo,
My name is Alrick Accobee; most of you know me as
Son. My parents are Rick and Kitty (Londo) Accobee of
Naytahwaush. I am a proud father of four children and one
grandson. I am a life-long resident of White Earth
Reservation and I currently reside in Naytahwaush. For the
past 16 years, I have been employed
at
Naytahwaush
Community
Charter School where I have taken
on various roles including classroom para, building operations
manager, boiler operator, redirect
room supervisor, and currently,
Indian Education Coordinator. This
experience has given me knowledge
into the daily challenges our families face. Outside of work, I am passionate about the outdoors and
enjoy sharing our cultural traditions with younger generations. I hope to create more opportunities for our youth and
elders to connect with our heritage.
I am running for District II because I believe our community deserves consistent, accountable, and strong representation at the RBC level. It is key to have someone who
is dedicated to listening to the concerns of our members and
advocating for their needs.
If elected as your District II Representative, I’d like to
address:
1.) Monthly meetings - I would like to have monthly
informational meetings with District II members to inform
them on upcoming projects. Members can voice their concerns at these meetings and I can bring these concerns to
the RBC. With smaller meetings in the communities, members may feel more comfortable sharing concerns.
2.) Tribal expenditures - Members should be
informed of any big expenditures BEFORE they are spent;
they shouldn’t have to find out from media outlets. Our
elected officials should be taking the time to inform members as these decisions affect everyone.
3.) Casino employment - Our members often get
overlooked for promotions. I would like to address this
issue. Let’s show our employees that we believe in them
and we trust that they can get the job done. I would also like
to see a program set up that teaches our members key skills
needed to be successful in their interviews. Honestly, so
many of our people struggle with interviews.
4.) Housing - We need to come up with a plan to renovate the boarded-up houses in every community. Vacant
homes do not benefit our homeless population or families
in need of housing.
5.) Natural Resources - I would like to establish a
program using natural resources to supply traditional foods
for our members during funerals, pow wows, naming ceremonies and other cultural events.
6.) Native preference - The issue of native preference
should not be up for debate; it should be standard practice
across our reservation. After discussions with community
members, it has become increasingly concerning to hear
See Snetsinger Page 35
Alrick “Son” Accobee
that our native-owned businesses are often overlooked for
tribal job opportunities, sometimes not even allowed to
submit bids. This must come to an end.
7.) Communication - I will vote against entering
Executive Session for Tribal Business, except in cases concerning Personnel or Enrollment matters. In my opinion,
Tribal Business should be conducted openly in front of our
members, as this represents true transparency.
8.) Elders - Every election cycle we hear about the
elders, however, once elected, they often become overlooked. It would be great to have a dedicated community
center for elders in all communities on the reservation.
9.) Youth - We must collaborate to create programs for
all youth, recognizing their interests in activities like basketball, softball, baseball, hunting and fishing. It is essential
to offer a variety of options that resonate with them, as they
represent our future.
10.) Land Purchasing - It is crucial for us to acquire
as much land as possible that becomes available on the
reservation. This land is vital as it offers essential resources
for our community's well-being and sustainability. If we
fail to purchase this land, it is likely that others will, leaving
us with little to no opportunity to buy it in the future.
Taking steps now is key to securing our resources for our
future generations.
11.) Waabigwan Mashkiki - This has been a hot topic
lately and there are a number of issues that need to be
See Accobee Page 35
30
Anishinaabeg Today
Dave Snetsinger Sr. earns American Red Cross award
Submitted photo
White Earth member Dave Snetsinger Sr. was awarded the American Red Cross Serving Northern and
Central Minnesota ‘Leadership Volunteer of the Year’ award recently at an event at Cedar Lakes Casino in
Cass Lake, Minn. At the event one year prior, he was honored for 35 years as a Red Cross volunteer.
Presenting the award is Dan Williams Executive Director, American Red Cross Serving Northern and
Central Minnesota.
Wednesday, May 6, 2026
Wednesday, May 6, 2026
Anishinaabeg Today
LaRoque from Page 4
Security, Extraction Lab, Kitchen, Custodian.
Maintenance. This also includes all Administration
Staff.
31
Upcoming General Election and Candidate
Acknowledgement
I want to acknowledge and congratulate all candidates who have moved forward in the White Earth
Nation upcoming general election scheduled for June
9. Putting one’ss name forward to serve our people is
a meaningful commitment, and I respect every individual who is willing to take on the responsibility of
leadership on behalf of our Nation and our families,
both on and off the reservation.
I have worked collaboratively with the entire
Tribal Council to address complex challenges,
strengthen financial stewardship, advance strategic
initiatives, and respond decisively when our members needed leadership. I believe that progress is
made when we work together with transparency,
accountability, and respect for Tribal sovereignty. I
respectfully ask that all Tribal members get out and
vote and make your voice heard in this general election.
Miigwech!
Michael “Mike” LaRoque
Secretary-Treasurer
218-849-1140
The White Earth Nation General Election is
Tuesday, June 9 - polls will be open from 8 a.m to 8 p.m.
Anishinaabeg Today
32
Wanda Alvarado
Obituaries
Wednesday, May 6, 2026
Ronald “Ron” Bellcourt
Wanda Alvarado, 79, of Naytahwaush, died on April 4 at her home.
Wanda was born on Oct. 6, 1946, in White Earth, to Charles and Pearl (Cain)
Folstrom. She was raised in the Naytahwaush area, where she attended school and built the
roots of a life centered on family and community.
As a young woman, Wanda worked at the Naytahwaush sewing factory while beginning her greatest and most cherished role of being a mother. In 1966, she was united in
marriage to Ramiro Alvarado Jr. Though their marriage later ended
in 1983, they remained good friends throughout the years. Wanda
found her greatest joy in her family. She deeply loved being a
mother and treasured every moment spent with her grandchildren.
She lovingly helped raise and babysat for many of her grandkids,
always offering a steady, gentle presence and a heart full of love.
Known for her quiet and kind nature, Wanda was a sweet and
gentle soul who would help anyone in need. She enjoyed visiting
with family and friends and could often be found spending hours
on the phone catching up with loved ones. In her quieter moments,
she enjoyed reading and watching westerns. She also had an eye
for antiques and loved searching for hidden treasures while thrifting. Wanda will be remembered for her warmth, her kindness, and the love she gave so
freely to those around her.
Wanda is survived by her daughters: Gina Alvarado, Lori Alvarado, and Kristian
(Chad) Elliott; sons, Jesse Alvarado and Shiloh Folstrom; brothers: David (Kim) Folstrom
of Manteca, Calif., Albert (Diana) Folstrom of Las Vegas, Robert Folstrom of Gonvick,
Minn., Lawrence Folstrom of Mahnomen, and Harry Folstrom of Naytahwaush; sisters,
Myrtle (Earl) Reed of Moatsville, W.V., and Rose (Jack) Thebo of Traverse City, Mich.; 18
grandchildren and many great grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Charles and Pearl; sister, Edna Marie
Merritt; brothers, Jim Merritt and Walt Biggness; great grandson, Kane Miller; as well as
many extended family members.
Funeral services were held April 10 at Samuel Memorial Episcopal Church in
Naytahwaush.
Arrangements: Anderson Family Funeral Home of Mahnomen.
Online: www.andersonfamilyfh.com
Ronald “Ron” Bellcourt, 70, of Minneapolis, died March 30 at Fairview Southdale
Hospital in Edina, Minn.
Ronald Eugene Bellcourt was born on Dec. 18, 1955, in White Earth to Joseph and
Grace (LaChappelle) Bellcourt. He attended school in White Earth, and following his
father’s passing, his family relocated to Minneapolis. Ron moved back to the White Earth
area for several years and during that time, he had one of the
proudest moments of his life - becoming a father to his son, Joseph.
Ron later moved back to the Twin Cities area. Over the years, he
worked a wide range of jobs in many different roles, earning a reputation as a true jack-of-all-trades.
Ron will be remembered for his upbeat spirit and the joy he
brought to those around him. He had a way of lighting up a room
and was often the life of the party. He loved telling long, drawnout jokes that always ended with a great punchline, much to the
delight of his family. Time spent together meant everything to Ron,
and he especially enjoyed family gatherings. In recent years, he
cherished living with his sister, Donna, and the time they shared.
Ron was always willing to lend a hand to anyone in need. He also enjoyed playing cards—
whether it was a quiet game of solitaire or a lively round of poker with others.
Ron is survived by his son, Joseph Azure; significant other, Linda Azure; stepsons:
Tom, Robert and Craig Azure; siblings: Raymond (Deb) Bellcourt, Donna Manypenny
(Steve Wright), and Sharon (Simon) Day; and many nieces and nephews.
Ron was preceded in death by his parents; siblings: Leroy “Delray” Bellcourt, Wayne
Bellcourt, Diane Bellcourt, and Richard Bellcourt; grandson, baby Roberts; and several
extended family members.
An all-night wake was held on April 7 and continued until the funeral service on April
8, both at the White Earth Community Center.
The minister was Lowell Laudert and the pallbearers were Marvin Bellcourt,
Raymond Bellcourt Jr., Jeff Azure, Mike Azure, Dean Manypenny, Lonnie Bellcourt, Tom
Azure. Honorary bearers were Joe Azure, Robert Azure, Derick Manypenny, Gordie
Bellanger, Bentley Jackson, Buddy Day, and all of his friends and family.
Arrangements: Anderson Family Funeral Home of Mahnomen.
Online: www.andersonfamilyfh.com
Lucille Ellen Sweet Nylund, known lovingly as “Dolly,” passed away on March 26 in
Crescent City, Calif., after a battle with cancer. She was 88 years old.
Dolly was born on May 14, 1937, in Cloquet, Minn., to Harold and Veronica Sweet.
She grew up in the northern woods and lakes of Minnesota. She graduated from high
school in Virginia, and went on to marry John Nylund, with whom she had five children.
After her divorce, Dolly demonstrated the remarkable strength and determination that
defined her entire life, working four jobs; delivering newspapers,
magazine editor, furniture upholstery, and dinner theater waitress,
simultaneously while returning to college to earn her Master of
Science in Business Administration. It was a testament to the fierce
resolve that everyone who knew her came to admire. Dolly was
strong-willed, practical, and endlessly hardworking. She was steadfast in her beliefs, sometimes stubborn in holding them, and she
never shied away from standing up for what was right. Her passions
were many and rich.
She was an avid bird watcher who kept her feeders full and her
binoculars close. In her younger years, she harvested wild rice from
canoes from the lakes of northern Minnesota, rode horses, and
spent tie camping. She traveled to Puerto Rico, Germany, and Austria. Living near the
ocean in later years, she treasured her walks on the beach, lunch dates and gambling at the
casino with daughter Janelle, and spending time with grandchildren and great-grandchildren when able. Dolly was a mother first and foremost and was always there for her children.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Harold and Veronica Sweet; brothers, James
and Buddy Sweet; and sister, Shirley Taapa.
She is survived by her children: Joyce Bennett (Jerry Bennett), Tracy Nylund, John
Nylund (Connie Nylund), Janelle Sweet, and Barbara Nylund-Ramos; sisters, Patsy Moyle
and Rita Bodas; brother, Butch Sweet; as well as numerous grandchildren, extended family
members, and friends whose lives she touched deeply.
In lieu of services, Dolly made the generous decision to donate her body to science
through UC Davis in California, a final act of giving that reflects the practical and purposeful spirit she carried throughout her life. The family asks that those who wish to honor her
memory consider spending time outdoors, feeding the birds or planting a tree in her honor.
Thomas “Big Top” Giard Jr., 41, of Naytahwaush, died unexpectedly on April 2 at the
Mahnomen Health Center following health complications which began last fall.
Thomas John, the oldest child of Thomas Sr. and Loretta “Pebbs” (Bush) Giard was
born on Sept. 25, 1984, in Detroit Lakes, Minn. He grew up in Naytahwaush where he
attended grade school.
Following high school in Mahnomen, Big Top joined the
workforce. He worked as a cook for the Shooting Star Casino
in Mahnomen for many years. Big Top was a wonderful cook,
and he thoroughly enjoyed his time spent in the buffet department. In 2009, he was blessed with a son, Thomas, easily
becoming the highlight of his life. A few years later, Big Top
moved to Ohio where he worked a variety of jobs and independently made a life for himself. He returned to Naytahwaush in
2024, to be closer to family.
Big Top, big in stature, including his heart was so giving.
He enjoyed cooking for his family, driving people to and from
and was always willing to lend a helping hand when he could.
He enjoyed family get-togethers, working on cars and listening to all genres of music, but
some of his favorite tunes were by ICP (Insane Clown Posse). He will be greatly missed
by many.
Thomas is survived by a son, Thomas (Alex Tibbetts) Porter of Naytahwaush; sisters:
Iris Giard of Fargo, N.D., Mariah Giard of Shakopee, Minn., and Claire (Cliff Sargent)
Giard of Naytahwaush; brothers, Sonny Porter of White Earth, and Joe (Jenni Wichern)
Keezer of Naytahwaush; grandma, Mavis Bush of Naytahwaush; several aunts, uncles,
nieces, nephews, cousins; and good friends, Charles Littlewolf of Mahnomen and Rob
Goodwin of Naytahwaush.
He is preceded in death by his grandparents: Joe Bush, William and Helena Giard; parents, Tom and Loretta; brothers, Jesse “Jed” Giard and William “Chill” Giard; sister, Mavis
Giard; and many extended family members.
An all-night wake began April 8 and continued until the time of the funeral service on
April 9, both at the Naytahwaush Sports Complex.
Arrangements: Anderson Family Funeral Home of Mahnomen.
Online: www.andersonfamilyfh.com
Lucille Ellen Sweet Nylund
Thomas John “Big Top” Giard Jr.
Wednesday, May 6, 2026
Porsha Lorraine Keezer
Obituaries
Porsha Keezer, 19, of rural Waubun, died unexpectedly on April 23 at her home.
Porsha Lorraine Keezer was born Sept. 25, 2006, in Detroit Lakes, Minn., the youngest
daughter of Shana and Jeffrey Keezer. Her elementary years started in Mahnomen, followed by Waubun-Ogema Elementary and she entered high school in Waubun. During
high school, Porsha excelled at both volleyball and basketball until a devastating car accident in 2021 almost took her life. Throughout her trials and tribulations, Porsha fought hard
to recover. With the loving help and support of her family, she
remained steadfast in her recovery. Porsha was able to get back to
school her junior year and proudly graduated from Waubun High
School with the Class of 2025.
In her pre-teen years, Porsha enjoyed being outdoors. She
loved going on 4-wheeler rides, swimming and attending the activities at the yearly Hope Camp in Elbow Lake Village. Porsha was
pretty savvy on her phone with one of her favorite apps being Snap
Chat. She was always snapping her friends and family keeping her
streaks going. She also enjoyed playing a variety of games on her
phone. When she wasn’t on her phone, Porsha could be found just
hanging out and chillin’ with her family. She was exceptionally
close with her dad, Jeffrey. She will be missed by so many people who loved her dearly.
Porsha is survived by her mom, Shana Keezer; sisters, Brenna Keezer and Brooke
(Vinny) Keezer; brothers, Devan (Zeegwunikay Warren) Keezer and James Goodman;
grandmas, Susan Keezer and Pauline Keezer; aunt, Terrie Sue Keezer; uncles: Rodney
(Cassie) Keezer, Tyson (Misty) Keezer Sr. and Kenneth “Beep” (Lois) Keezer Jr.; and
many great aunts, uncles and cousins.
She was preceded in death by her dad, Jeffrey Keezer; grandpas, Kenneth Keezer Sr.
and LeRoy Fairbanks Jr.; brother, Derek Keezer; uncles: Timothy Keezer, Robert Keezer,
and Matthew Fairbanks; and special friend, Kylia Jackson.
All-night wake services were held April 29 at her home and continued one hour prior
to the funeral service on April 30 at Elbow Lake Lutheran Church.
Interment: Vernon Anderson Memorial Cemetery in rural Waubun.
Arrangements: Anderson Family Funeral Home of Mahnomen.
Online: www.andersonfamilyfh.com
Saige Adam Londo
33
Anishinaabeg Today
Saige Londo, 26, of Fargo, N.D., formerly Naytahwaush, died unexpectedly on April 3.
Saige Adam, the son of Brooke Londo and Lee Oppegard, was born on Feb. 2, 2000, in
Detroit Lakes, Minn. He was raised in Naytahwaush, where he made his home with his
grandparents, Corvin and Arlene, who played an important and loving role in his life. Those
early years helped shape Saige into the kind, grounded, and caring person who many came
to know and love.
From a young age, Saige felt a deep connection to the outdoors.
He found peace and purpose in nature, spending countless hours ricing, leeching, hunting, and fishing. Whether walking through the
woods or sitting quietly by the water, Saige was most at home surrounded by the beauty of the natural world.
Saige recently moved to Fargo where he was building his life
and making his home. No matter where he lived, he carried with him
the values and connections of his upbringing. He was known for his
generous heart and his willingness to help anyone in need, never
hesitating to lend a hand or offer support. He found meaningful
work as a personal care attendant as he had a natural ability to connect with people. He took the time to listen, to visit, and to truly see
others. His kindness was quiet but powerful, leaving a lasting impression on those he cared
for and those fortunate enough to know him.
Saige will be remembered for his gentle spirit, his caring heart, and the way he made
others feel valued and heard. Though his time here was far too short, Saige’s memory will
live on in the hearts of his family and friends.
Saige is survived by his parents, Brooke Londo and Lee Oppegard; grandparents:
Corvin and Arlene Londo, Gwendolyn Sargent, and Uncha Pong; sisters: Doreen,
Dominique, Mikaih, Victoria, and Elsie; brothers: Terry, Dayton, Antione, and Lee Jr.; and
uncles and aunties: Dillon, Simone, Serena, Dawn Lee, Michelle, Clifford, Emilita,
Shawnee, Mike, Gene and Wanez. He was preceded in death by his grandpa, Michael
Keezer; aunts: Harriett Londo, Loraine Londo, and Melissa Keezer; uncle, Adam Bunette;
and several great aunts, uncles, and cousins.
A visitation and prayer service was held on April 23 and funeral services were held on
April 24, both at St. Anne’s Catholic Church in Naytahwaush.
Interment: St. Anne’s Cemetery in Naytahwaush.
Arrangements: Anderson Family Funeral Home of Mahnomen.
Online: www.andersonfamilyfh.com
Darwin “BoyBoy” McArthur
Darwin “BoyBoy” McArthur, 87, of Ogema, passed away peacefully on April 1 at his
home.
Darwin was born on April 30, 1938, in White Earth, to Samuel and Margaret (Andersen)
McArthur. As a young boy, he attended White Earth Mission School and later Waubun High
School. In his youth, he delivered the Grit newspaper to more than 60 households and served
as the batboy for the White Earth baseball team, where he was given the nickname
“BoyBoy,” a name that stayed with him throughout his life.
At the age of 17, he convinced his father to sign for him, and he
enlisted in the United States Navy. He proudly served four years
aboard the USS Valley Forge aircraft carrier. Following his service,
he returned home and married Marge Teiken on Aug. 1, 1959, at St.
Benedict’s Church in White Earth. Together they shared nearly 65
years of marriage until Marge’s passing in 2024.
BoyBoy worked a variety of jobs throughout his life, including
Lakes Plumbing and as a bartender at the Ogema Liquor Store. He
later began a long and dedicated career with the Becker County
Highway Department, where he worked for 35 years. During that
time, he also served as a heavy equipment instructor at the Detroit
Lakes Vo-Tech while also volunteering for the Ogema Fire
Department. Even after retirement, Darwin continued to stay active, operating a road grader
during the summers for Teiken (Bud Teiken) Road Maintenance.
He found great joy in hunting, fishing, wild ricing, and playing Old Timers softball.
BoyBoy also spent time running a small hobby farm and took immense pride in maintaining
his home—whether mowing the lawn or plowing snow.
BoyBoy and Marge raised four sons: Darwin “Darb” (Jean), Joseph (Diane), John
(Lisa), and David (Natalie), all of Ogema. He is also survived by former daughter-in-law
Theresa (Bud) Teiken of Waubun; sister-in-law MaryAnn Teiken or Ogema; as well as
numerous grandchildren: Tanya (Travis) Gary, Tracy (Jesse “Horn”) Lhotka, Justine (Jason)
Wambach, Marie (Mike) Brevik, Kellen (Julia Heim) McArthur, Ryan McArthur, Caitlin
(Jordan) Johnson, Rachael (Max Pinske) McArthur, Rylee McArthur, Cora McArthur, Lucas
(Amy) McArthur, Chelsey (Keith) McArthur-Warren, Jordan (Paulette) McArthur, Maggie
(Dylan Thompson) McArthur, Jenna McArthur (CJ Manning), and Dylan McArthur. He was
further blessed with 40 great-grandchildren and four great-great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Marge; parents, Samuel and Margaret;
brothers, Eugene “Didums” McArthur and Samuel “Bud” McArthur; and sisters” Catherine
“Ainee” Clark, Gloria Berry, and Marcella “Doll” Berry.
Darwin will be remembered for his dedication to his family, his strong work ethic, and
the pride he took in his home and community. His legacy lives on in the many lives he
touched.
The family would like to thank HIA Hospice; nurses Joanna and Maia, White Earth
Home Health; nurse Veronica Kuhlmann; and all of the family and friends for their sincere
care of BoyBoy in the last months of his life. Extended thank you to White Earth ENP and
drivers Connie and Chico for the daily meals he received.
Arrangements: David-Donehower Funeral Home of Detroit Lakes, Minn.
Online: www.daviddonehower.com
Anishinaabeg Today
34
Simon Dean Zornes
Obituaries
Simon Zornes, 55, of Bagley, Minn., died unexpectedly on April 15.
Simon Dean Zornes was born on April 30, 1970, to Charles Sr. and Suzanne (Oppegard)
Zornes. He was given his Ojibwe name Genaawandang Ishkodekan, meaning “Keeper of the
Fire.” He attended Flandreau Indian School and graduated in 1989. After high school, Simon
spent time traveling and visiting friends before attending college in Moorhead, where he
earned a degree in agriculture in the early 1990s.
In his younger years, Simon was devoted to raising his blended family. He was married
in 2000 to Carol Brook in Las Vegas and the couple later separated.
Throughout his life, Simon held a variety of jobs including work at
Shooting Star Casino, White Earth Land Recovery, with a traveling
carnival, and as a firefighter. His favorite work, however, was anything that allowed him to be outdoors. He especially enjoyed wild
ricing and collecting maple syrup, proudly carrying on the traditions
of his ancestors and sharing that knowledge with younger generations. He worked at the rice mill at Mahkonce with his uncle Sunfish
and Bob Shimek for many years.
Simon was a talented artist whose work can be found throughout northern Minnesota, and he was featured in articles and documentaries highlighting his creativity. He created many beautiful rock
and wood carvings. He hosted the coolest booth at the farmers market, showcasing his many
passions, and he loved to share his talents with friends and family. He also enjoyed canning,
and playing guitar and singing while enjoying the sunset. Simon will be remembered for his
laid-back, friendly nature, and his deep knowledge and passion for sharing it with others.
Simon is survived by his mother, Suzanne Zornes; children: Ellie Mae (Jose) Ramirez,
Marissa (Anthony John Strong) Whirlwindsoldier, Miranda Whirlwindsoldier, Travis
Walker, Jericho Zornes, Eon Zornes, and Marcus Lagarde; grandchildren, Siara Sargent and
Jose Ramirez Jr.; siblings: Charles Zornes Jr., Tracy Zornes, Lisa (Sam Wadena) Zornes,
Samantha (Mike Ray Littlewolf) Zornes, and Ann Zornes; grandpups, Wuppy and Peewee
Baby; mothers of his children: Tammy Peterson, Christine Thauvin Colin, Angela
Whirlwindsoldier, Zelda “Bee” Sargent, and Carol Brook; and many extended family.
Simon was preceded in death by his grandparents; father, Charles Zornes Sr., son,
Peyton Zornes; grandson, Steven Warren; and many special aunts and uncles.
All night wake services began on April 22 and continued until the time of the funeral on
April 23, both held at the Naytahwaush Sports Complex.
Arrangements: Anderson Family Funeral Home of Mahnomen.
Online: www.andersonfamilyfh.com
Deloris Peterson
It is with heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our beloved mother, grandmother,
great-grandmother, and great-great-grandmother on Jan. 8 at the Mahnomen Care Center,
enveloped by the love of her family.
Born on July 4, 1935, to John and Emma Kier. She had four brothers and five sisters all
of whom predeceased her. Deloris grew up on the Island Lake area with her grandparents
where she met and married James Fisher of Lengby, Minn., to which they have five children.
When widowed, she was united in marriage to Glen Peterson of
Bagley, Minn., where they resided, together they have five children.
Deloris had various types of employment throughout her life,
most notably known for her work as a CNA at the Bagley Care
Center and the McIntosh Care Center. She was known for her quick
wit and sense of humor, she loved to laugh. She loved spending time
with family camping, fishing, and attending pow wows. She was an
excellent cook and baker, she also gave the best hugs when entering
or leaving her home.
Deloris was predeceased by her first husband, James Fisher, her
second husband, Glen Peterson; son, Robert (Bobby) Peterson;
grandchildren: Jeffery Fisher, John April and Leigh Sawyer; and
great grandson, Torrin Peterson.
Her legacy of love and laughter lives on through her surviving children, John (Deb)
Fisher of Lengby, Jim (Vicki) Fisher of Lengby, Jean (Mike) Philbin of Victor, Mont., Julie
(Tom Rambeck of Thief River Falls, Minn., Joan Fisher of Arkansas, Terry (Jody) Peterson
of Fosston, Minn., Charles Peterson of Ebro, Minn., Vicki Peterson of Bagley, David
Peterson (Rebecca Flaherty) of Woodbury, Minn.; 22 grandchildren; 37 great-grandchildren;
and five great-great-grandchildren, as well as numerous nieces and nephews.
In our hearts, Deloris Mae Kier will forever remain a beacon of warmth, love, and
laughter.
A celebration of Deloris’s life will be held on June 6 with a 1 p.m. gathering at the
Samuel Memorial Church in Naytahwaush.
Arrangements: Cease Family Funeral Homes of Bagley
Online: www.ceasefuneralhome.com
Wednesday, May 6, 2026
Renae Rebekah Pugh Graham
Renae Rebekah Pugh Graham, 61, of Tryon Courthouse Road, N.C., passed away
April 1 at Caromont Regional Medical Center. She was born May 20, 1964, in Hennepin
County, Minn., to the late John Pugh and late Dolores Loretta Mahalick Pugh Schrieber.
Renae was a member of the White Earth Nation – Band of the Chippewa. She was a
graduate of Cardinal Newman High School of West Palm Beach, Fla., – Class of 1982.
During her high school years, she was very athletic and played
both basketball and volleyball.
In 1986, she met her future husband, Greg, through an ad that
he placed in the local paper. After she and Greg were married and
had children, Renae became very active with her children. She was
a Cub Scouts Den Mother and a Girl Scouts Troop Leader. Renae
was very artistic and enjoyed crafts and painting. Renae was a true
social butterfly who never met a stranger. She genuinely loved
people and will be deeply missed by those who knew her.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her
brother-in-law, Roland Graham; sisters-in-law, April Buonamici,
and Elaine Graham; and her fur babies, Legend and Kagney.
Survivors include her husband of 39 years, Gregory Forrest Graham; children: Forrest
Graham (Katherine) of Greenville, N.C., Bryan Graham of Cherryville, N.C., Dr. Lauren
Nichols (Asa) of Los Alamos, N.M., and Jacob Graham of Greenville; grandchildren,
Grayson and Evelyn Graham; brothers, Michael Pugh (Susan) of Oceanside, Calif., and
John Pugh (Amber) of Independence, Va.; sisters, Eileen Schwartz (Glen) of Buckeye,
Ariz., Marylou Rodgers (Steve) of Oceanside, Calif., twin sister, Lenae Stokes of Lenior,
N.C., and Sherri Larsen of Black River Falls, Wis.; and numerous nieces and nephews.
All services will be private.
Condolences may be made to www.carpenterporter.com
White Earth Nation has a Facebook page!
www.facebook.com/WhiteEarthNation
Anishinaabeg Today
Wednesday, May 6, 2026
WHITE EARTH TRIBAL COURT
CHILDREN’S COURT
WHITE EARTH TRIBAL COURT
CHILDREN’S COURT
In the Matter of the Welfare of the Child(ren) of:
In the Matter of the Welfare of the Child(ren) of:
Notice of Petition and Hearing
Notice of Petition and Hearing
Fawn Roy,
Court File No. CP2026-00003
YOU ARE HEREBY notified that on January
13, 2026, a Petition for Child in Need of
Protection and/or Services was filed with the
White Earth Tribal Court regarding your child
in file CP2026-00003.
A continued
Admit/Deny Hearing on the matter is scheduled for May 28, 2026, at 10:15 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: April 29, 2026
Tammy J. Swanson
Attorney for White Earth Indian Child Welfare
WHITE EARTH TRIBAL COURT
CHILDREN’S COURT
Dale Warren Jr.,
Court File No. CP2024-00035, -00036
YOU ARE HEREBY notified that on
December 12, 2025, a Transfer of Permanent
Physical and Legal Custody was filed with the
White Earth Tribal Court regarding your children in file CP2024-00035, -00036. A continued Admit/Deny Hearing on the matters is
scheduled for May 28, 2026, at 10:00 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: April 29, 2026
Tammy J. Swanson
Attorney for White Earth Indian Child Welfare
WHITE EARTH TRIBAL COURT
CHILDREN’S COURT
In the Matter of the Welfare of the Child(ren) of:
In the Matter of the Welfare of the Child(ren) of:
Notice of Petition and Hearing
Notice of Petition and Hearing
Dale Warren Jr.,
Court File No. CP2024-00035, -00036
YOU ARE HEREBY notified that on
December 12, 2025, a Transfer of Permanent
Physical and Legal Custody was filed with the
White Earth Tribal Court regarding your children in file CP2024-00035, -00036. A continued Admit/Deny Hearing on the matters is
scheduled for May 28, 2026, at 10:00 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: April 29, 2026
Tammy J. Swanson
Attorney for White Earth Indian Child Welfare
WHITE EARTH TRIBAL COURT
CHILDREN’S COURT
In the Matter of the Welfare of the Child(ren) of:
Any Man Coming Forward as the Father of
the Child of Monica Crowell,,
Notice of Petition and Hearing
Court File No. CP2024-00035, -00036
YOU ARE HEREBY notified that on
December 12, 2025, a Transfer of Permanent
Physical and Legal Custody was filed with the
White Earth Tribal Court regarding your children in file CP2024-00035, -00036. A continued Admit/Deny Hearing on the matters is
scheduled for May 28, 2026, at 10:00 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: April 29, 2026
Tammy J. Swanson
Attorney for White Earth Indian Child Welfare
Lacy Clark,
Court File No. CP2026-00001
YOU ARE HEREBY notified that on February
12, 2026, a Petition for Child in Need of
Protection and/or Services was filed with the
White Earth Tribal Court regarding your child
in file CP2026-00001. A Pretrial Hearing on
the matter is scheduled for May 28, 2026, at
10:30 A.M. You are asked to contact White
Earth Tribal Court Administration located at
the RTC in White Earth, Minnesota at 218-9834648. If you fail to appear for this hearing the
Court may find you in default and enter an
order.
Dated: April 29, 2026
Tammy J. Swanson
Attorney for White Earth Indian Child Welfare
McArthur from Page 27
35
being made regarding large expenditures,
such as land and real estate? I will call for a
full forensic audit that will answer these
questions.
TERO: I will ensure that the economic
rights of our tribal members are protected
through strict TERO compliance across all
tribal entities. When it comes to tribal jobs
and contracts, let’s keep it local!
IHS 638: This process that affects
something as important and fundamental as
our healthcare should have been brought
before the people of White Earth before it
was ever put into motion. We need community meetings and the opportunity for tribal
members to learn about the process and be
heard before anything is finalized.
I ask for your support in the election on
June 9th. If you would like any additional
information on my experience and qualifications, or have any questions for me where I
stand on the topics and issues of the day,
please reach out using any of the following
channels:
(218) 401-0945
Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram
respect, and our youth deserve guidance
and opportunity.”
Economic opportunities - I support
opening up our land base for members to
start small businesses within our reservation and strengthen our local economy. I
also understand the importance of supporting members returning from treatment or
incarceration and the need to maintain
strong support systems. Looking into further childcare for working families is
important, as many of our communities are
in need of reliable childcare so our members can work to provide for there families.
I want to recognize all the candidates
who ran in the primary election. It takes
courage to step forward and serve, and I see
leadership in everyone who chose to run.
I respectfully ask for your continued
support as we move towards the General
Election on June 9th, 2026
Investing back into our communities
includes hiring local, hiring with Native
preference and purchasing local. Creating a
prosperous local economy is our responsibility to our ppl. We cannot thrive in poverty. Investing & building our tribal portfolio
provides us opportunities in the future. To
support local vendors, I admin a page, share
funding/vendor opportunities, create gift
certificates & help file for their Tribal LLC.
I want to promote our tribal economic
growth by diversifying our industries &
exploring globally. We need to branch out
from gaming into industry, arts, media,
energy, tribal food sovereignty, and entrepreneurial supports.
Investing into our future leaders
includes developing year-round youth pro-
grams. They belong at planning tables &
deserve leadership development programming. I want to see our young lobbying for
change with elected officials & policymakers. Their voices should be heard & respected.
If my values align with yours, please
Vote Sheri Kay Snetsinger on June 9th as
your future District 2 Representative. To
learn more about me & my intensions,
please reach out to me at:
Facebook: Sheri Kay for District 2
(https://www.facebook.com/SheriKayforDi
strict2WEN/)
Email: SheriKayforD2@gmail.com
Chi-miigwech,
Sheri Kay Snetsinger
Candidate for White Earth District 2
addressed moving forward. Let’s get the
numbers out there for our people to see. I
understand that we face competition and
may not be able to disclose everything, but
it is crucial for our members to have insight
into what is happening. These are OUR dispensaries, not the RBC’s.
Please keep in mind that these are only
topics for discussion. I welcome any additional ideas and conversations.
I urge all members to get out and vote
in the General Election on June 9. Early
voting is open at the RV Park behind the
casino from 8:00-4:30 PM.
If you seek change, let your voices be
heard.
Miigwech!!
Alrick “Son” Accobee
District II Representative Candidate
218-204-0517 alrickaccobee2@gmail.com
Auginaush from Page 28
Snetsinger from Page 29
Accobee from Page 29
Miigwech,
Jacob McArthur
Miigwetch,
Andy “Jack” Auginaush
(10 years without drugs and alcohol as
of April 20th)
Contact Infomration
Phone: (218) 368-2055
Email: auginaush4@gmail.com
Facebook: Jack Andy Auginaush
Website: https://andyauginaushdistrict1.netlify.app
Anishinaabeg Today
36
Veterans from Page 2
gas masks just before the novices went into combat. The
poor preparation of replacements often led directly to tactical failure and unnecessarily high casualties.” William
deployed to Europe on Sept. 26, 1918, going into combat in
the Meuse-Argonne offensive where he was Killed in
Action Oct. 13 or Nov. 9, 1918 at the age of 22 in France.
His remains were returned to Mahnomen County in August
1921 however, his grave has not been located.
Joseph David Paul [no photo found]
Pvt., Co. L, 23rd Inf., 2nd Div., U.S. Army. In June
and July, 1918 during the Aisne-Marne Defensive, the 23rd
was engaged in the Battle of Chateau Thierry, then at
Soissons in the Aisne-Marne Offensive followed by the St.
Mihiel Offensive by Sept. 12. The 23rd engaged in heavy
combat in the Battle of Champagne during the MeuseArgonne Offensive. On October 3 the 23rd Inf. attacked as
part of the 4th French Army under General Henri Gouraud.
They supported the 9th Inf. to the Medeah Farm Objective
- Blanc Mont Road and then passed through them, storming
the heights southeast of St. Etienne-aux-Arnes, France. The
resistance was strong and the fighting more bitter than in
any other engagement. It was in this advance that Joseph
was Killed in Action on Oct. 5, 1918 at the age of 24. Joe
is buried in Holy Cross Catholic Cemetery in Bemidji.
World War II
Richard Edgar Magnon
PFC, Co. L, 315th Inf., 79th
Div., U.S. Army. The 79th landed
across Utah Beach on June 14, 1944;
attacked toward Cherbourg on the
19th capturing Fort du Roule June
26. They pushed down the west
coast of the Cotentin Peninsula JulyAug. taking La Haye-du-Puits,
Lassey, Laval, and then Le Mans
where they established a bridgehead
near Mantes-Gassicourt over the
Seine. The 79th crossed the Belgian border Sept. 1-2, 1944
- the first American division to do so in WW II - and concentrated in the Joinville area with the 315th seizing
Neufchâteau Sept. 13 in one of the fiercest attacks of the
war. Despite intense assaults by the Germans from the Forêt
de Parroy, the 79th moved forward with the 315th Inf. losing, then recovering, part of Lunéville Sept. 22.
The following day in heavy combat, the division
entered the densely wooded Forêt de Parroy where the
Germans had heavy cover. An all-out divisional assault
forced a German withdrawal from the dense forest. The
79th next took Emberménil and battled for the high ground
east of town Oct. 15-22. After 127 consecutive days in
combat, the 79th spent the next 16 days at Lunéville, to rest
and recover then 314th and 315th Inf. returned to attack out
of the Mignéville-Montigny, département Meurthe-etMoselle area. In this advance, Magnon was gravely
wounded and died six days later on Nov. 18, 1944 at age 24
at the 9th Evac. Hosp. in the Lunéville vicinity. He is
buried in Épinal American Cemetery, France.
Fred Theodore Littlewolf
Pvt., U.S. Army Air Corps.
Fred was a waist gunner & radio
operator on a B-17 Flying Fortress a four engined heavy bomber. Fred
spent several months with the 8th
Air Force conducting submarine
patrols along the west coast of
England before taking part in the
1st all-American raid over France.
Taking Fred’s suggestion, their
Fortress was named “Thunderbird.”
Sent to north Africa, the crew on Thunderbird engaged
in 50 combat missions. In a raid on a massively defended
Wednesday, May 6, 2026
German bomber airdrome Castel Benito near Tripoli,
Libya, both her port engines were shot out. At a dangerous
list, the crippled Thunderbird attempted to return to their
base. A mountain range lied between them with the lowest
pass documented at 1,600 feet. Desperately trying to gain
altitude, the crew only managed to gain about 1,500 feet.
With no other options, the crew chanced it miraculously
making it through with only feet to spare. Though thought
to be impossible, the crew kept Thunderbird airborne 4½
hours with a dangerous list while the crippled fortress
limped an incredible 500 miles to their home airdrome near
Biskra, Algeria landing with one fuel tank empty and only
20 gallons remaining in the other.
This exploit of Thunderbird and her crew reached legendary status across the U.S. and Europe due to having
been documented by the famed WWII correspondent, Ernie
Pyle. This story was one of President Eisenhower’s favorite
wartime stories, and it even inspired the wartime hit song
“Comin’ In On a Wing and a Prayer” by the Song Spinners,
later recorded by other big name artists Kate Smith, Bing
Crosby, Vagabonds, and Gene Autry.
After surviving over 50 combat missions in Europe and
north Africa, Fred transferred back stateside only to be
killed along with all nine other crewmen onboard their
Flying Fortress when it crashed on a training mission May
26, 1944 near Anthon, Iowa. Fred was 23 years old. He is
buried in St. Anne’s Cemetery, Naytahwaush.
Vietnam
Clinton “Boy” Louis McArthur Jr.
Machinist’s Mate 2nd Class,
U.S. Navy. From Ponsford, “Boy”
enlisted in the Navy on June 24,
1958. He was first stationed on the
destroyer USS Charles P. Cecil
(DDR-835) and saw deployments
during the Cuba missile crisis and
throughout the Mediterranean.
Clinton re-enlisted in Naples, Italy
and later transferred to the aircraft
carrier USS Benington (CVS-20) in
the Pacific and later to shore duty at NAS Atsugi, Japan.
There he met and married Kinue Yumi Oka. He reenlisted
a second time but within a year developed the rapid onset
of a severe illness. “Boy” was admitted to the U.S. Army
Hospital, Camp Zama, Japan where he died five days later
on Sept. 12, 1967 at age 26. Clinton is buried in Calvary
Catholic Cemetery in White Earth.
Women Veterans
Gertrude McAthur
US Coast Guard / WWII
Marie Broker
Army Nurse / WWI
Irene Broker
Navy / WWII/Korea/Vietnam
Ruth Bunker
Army / WWII
Audrey Carr Willia
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