(Moon of the Leaves Turning Color)

Tribal code

Ask Donna

What actually matters in this document.

Text

SEPTEMBER

2026

Waaibibagaa-Giizis

(Moon of the Leaves Turning Color)

Working Together For Our Future

Saginaw

Chippewa

Powwow

results

Page 7

www.sagchip.org/tribalobserver

Volume 37

SCTC

Mshiikenh

5K Run/Walk

RezBall

Basketball

tournament

Page 11

Page 16

Issue 9

Features

Entertainment

SCTC

Elders

Calendar

Classifieds

SCTC secures grant renewal to expand “Nanda-Gikendan” Adult Education

Program with focus on cultural math modules and mentorship

Saginaw Chippewa

Tribal College

MOUNT PLEASANT, Mich.

– Saginaw Chippewa Tribal

College is honored to announce

a $45,000 grant renewal from

the American Indian College

Fund’s

Native

Students

Stepping Forward: Dollar

General Adult Education

Program.

This vital funding, generously sustained by the Dollar

General Literacy Foundation,

will allow SCTC to deepen and

expand its community-centered adult education project,

Nanda-Gikendan (Seek to

Learn), for the 2026-2027 academic term.

Building directly upon the

foundations laid in previous

terms, this renewal shifts the

program from a maintenance-focused approach to a dynamic

model designed to measurably boost student retention

and High School Equivalency

(HSE) graduation rates.

Over the new grant term,

which runs through June 30,

2027, SCTC will continue utilizing the Seven Grandfather

Teachings as an active operational and evaluation framework to holistically nurture

adult learners.

“This grant renewal empowers us to evolve our support systems and address the real-world

obstacles our students face,”

said Amanda Flaugher, dean

of students. “By continuing to

weave traditional Anishinaabe

storytelling, local history, and

Indigenous pedagogy into core

subjects, we are breaking historical educational barriers

and honoring our community’s

worldview as a tool for contemporary academic mastery.”

Key initiatives funded

under this renewed cycle

include:

• Contextualized

math

learning: Partnering with

SCTC faculty to co-design

and deliver two distinct, culturally tailored mathematics

tracks to reduce academic

anxiety and accelerate student

self-efficacy.

• “Teachings in Practice”

mentorship: Expanding community-driven support by

engaging five tribal leaders

or local professionals to conduct monthly motivational circles, aiming to lower student

drop-out rates by 15 percent

year-over-year.

• Pre-college and workforce

bridging: Launching a new

six-week “pre-college” introductory module to introduce

advanced learners to collegiate digital platforms, alongside formalized institutional

The interior of the Saginaw Chippewa

Tribal College is photographed.

bridge policies with SCTC’s

Student Services, Land Grant

and Academic programs.

The Nanda-Gikendan project continues under the direction of Flaugher as the project

administrator, with key support

from HSE Program Tutor Lori

Vincent and Student Services

Assistant Millie Thomas.

Beyond core academic

instruction,

the

renewed

funding extends to community

open houses, career transition

fairs, and intensive test-preparation boot camps. Additionally,

the program will provide essential student resources – including bus passes and daily nutritional support – to enhance

classroom engagement, foster

well-being, and alleviate common structural and transportation barriers.

Tribal Member health plan open enrollment: Sept. 1-30, 2026

Open enrollment is your once-a-year chance to adjust your

health plan coverages. Upon electing benefits, you will not be

able to make changes until the next open enrollment period,

unless you experience a qualifying life event.

Please note: It is important for everyone to complete an enrollment

to retain their coverage. If enrollment is not completed by

Sept. 30, benefits for 2027 will not be available.

YO u r E n r O l l M E n T T i M E l i n E

9/1

9/30

1/1

Enrollment

begins

Enrollment

ends

Benefits

effective

Tribal

Team Member Health

health Plan

plan Open

open Enrollment:

enrollment: Sept.

Oct. 1-31,

1-30,2026

2026

Open enrollment is your once-a-year chance to adjust your health

plan coverages. Upon electing benefits, you will not be able to

make changes until the next open enrollment period, unless you

experience a qualifying life event.

Please note: it is important for everyone to complete enrollment

to retain their coverage. If enrollment is not completed by

Oct. 31, benefits for 2027 will not be available.

YO u r E n r O l l M E n T T i M E l i n E

10/1

10/31

1/1

Enrollment

begins

Enrollment

ends

Benefits

effective

Review benefit choices

Share options with family

Mark your calendar

Be on the lookout for more information about your benefit offerings and how to enroll.

For additional information, please contact the Benefits Hotline at 989-775-5770

Obituaries

Tribal Observer | September 2026

Niizh | 2

Deborah L. Krupiczewicz

Tyrone Edward Rios Jr.

Rindaldus Scicluna III

Deborah L. Krupiczewicz, 56,

passed away peacefully, on Tuesday,

May 12, 2026, at her home in Grand

Rapids, Mich.

Deborah, the daughter of Stanley

and the late Judith (Lammers) Buyze

was born May 19, 1969, in Mount

Pleasant, Mich. She graduated from

Oostburg High School 1987 before

attending Reformed Bible College and

later earning an associate degree in

writing from Grand Valley State University.

Debbie was an avid writer of many things, including fictional stories. She also enjoyed sharing her political insights

on her YouTube channel. She had an amazing sense of humor,

and was a lover of all things patriotic.

Debbie is survived by her daughter Taneshia Marie

Krupiczewicz of Grand Rapids, Mich.; father Stan (Ann) Buyze

of Hingham; brother Jonathan (Kim) Buyze of Gibbsville and

his children Markie-Lee and Nolan; step-sisters Nancy (Steve)

DeJong, Jill (Doug) Rozendal and Stacy (Andy) Kerwin; dear

friends Amanda Turner, Lisa Wrightsman and Debra Cole; other

extended relatives and friends.

She is preceded in death by her mother Judith, and grandparents Alfred and Jeverna Lammers and Adrian and Marian

Buyze.

A private family burial took place at Hingham Cemetery. A

reception gathering was held from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday,

June 6, 2026 at Hingham Church.

Memorials are suggested to Bethany Christian Services in

(901 Eastern Ave NE., Grand Rapids, MI 49503).

Tyrone Edward Rios Jr. of Mount

Pleasant, Mich. passed away on Aug.

22, 2026, at the age of 24.

Ty was born in Mount Pleasant,

Mich., on Dec. 26, 2001, the son of

Tyrone Sr. and Louanna (Bruner)

Rios. He took great pride in being

from the Saginaw Chippewa Indian

Tribe and was a proud member of

the Nottawaseppi Huron Band of

Potawatomi Indians.

Ty graduated from Mt. Pleasant High School, where he was a

member of the varsity basketball and football team.

He was a huge sports enthusiast. Ty attended sporting events

with the goal of getting on the jumbotron. He was also a loyal

Detroit Lions fan, and all are encouraged to wear Lions apparel

to his service.

Ty is survived by his parents, Tyrone (Mia) Rios Sr. and

Louanna (Tim Mills) Bruner; siblings, Scott (Angie Brown)

Sheahan, Jenna Rios, Alec Mills; grandmother, Paula Keith;

aunts, Dorie Rios, Nickole Keith, Mariesha Keith; uncles, Derrick

Day, Brian (Trish) Rios; special cousins, Josev (JoJo) Keith,

Amber Day, Langston Day, Diop Harris II, Dyami Harris, Journi

Wilson, Christopher J.R. Wilson, Avrian “Duke” Keith, Ameris

Keith, Michael Corbin, Jaelen West, Jahsir Love, Preston Day.

A funeral service was held at 11 a.m. on Monday, Aug. 31,

2026, at the Charles R. Lux Family Funeral Home in Mount

Pleasant. Visitation took place Sunday, Aug. 30, 2026, from 4 to

7 p.m., as well as one hour before Monday’s service. A second

service will be held at 1:30 pm on Tuesday, Sept. 1, 2026, at Pine

Creek Community Center, 1488 Mno Bmadzewen Way in Fulton,

Mich. Interment will immediately follow Tuesday’s service at

Indian Cemetery.

Arrangements were entrusted to the Mills Funeral Home,

Shelly-Odell Chapel in Eaton Rapids.

Rindaldus Scicluna III, age 36 of Mount

Pleasant, Mich., passed away unexpectedly at McLaren Central Michigan on

Tuesday, Aug. 4, 2026.

Rinaldus was born in La Jolla,

Calif. on Jan. 23, 1990, the only son of

Rinaldus and Joane (Mercer) Scicluna.

He graduated from Chippewa Hills

High School with the Class of 2008.

Rinaldus was married to Shala Lynn

Stevens at the Little Flower Barn in

Lake Isabella on Oct. 30, 2022. Altogether, they had four children.

Rinaldus worked for Soaring Eagle Casino, beginning as an

usher at the age of 18, then for the past 14 years as a security officer.

Rinaldus was big in the gaming community and loved to play

tabletop games including Magic: The Gathering at the Gaming

Cantina and Calico Games in Mount Pleasant. He was also

known to many by the name “KronikViking” as a podcaster and

streamer. He enjoyed painting in his spare time.

Rinaldus is survived by his loving wife, Shala, their children,

Rinaldus Valentino “Tino”, Aria Ann-Marie, Raylin Amore, and

Ezran Rose, his parents Rinaldus (Melanie) Scicluna of Seagrove

Beach, Fla., Joane Scicluna (Kim Alrich) of Lake Isabella and

mother-in-law, April Stevens, of Mount Pleasant as well as extended

family members and friends.

Rinaldus was preceded in death by his grandmother, Betty

Mercer, Pamela Gaffner, Jeremy LaLone.

A funeral service was held at Clark Family Funeral Chapel at 1

p.m. on Tuesday, Aug. 18, 2026 with Joshua Hagerman officiating.

Visitation was held from 11 a.m. until the time of service.

Memorial contributions may be made to the family’s wishes in

care of Shala Scicluna.

Dec. 26, 2001 – Aug. 22, 2026

May 19, 1969 – May 12, 2026

January 23, 1990 – August 4, 2026

Saginaw chippewa tribal college

Cost: $15 per vehicle

• Parking can be purchased starting two hours before the

concert starts up until one hour after.

• Must remove vehicles from property by 5 p.m. the next day.

• Must place paid parking ticket visibly in front windshield.

• Free Premium Play will be given while supplies last.

- Proceeds will support our events and programming.

- To check for a shuttle ride to the casino, please call 989-775-0007.

Concert

Start

Time

Purchase

Timeframe

Sept. 11 – NE-YO

8 p.m.

6-9 p.m.

Sept. 12 – Kane Brown

8 p.m.

6-9 p.m.

Sept. 19 – Alanis Morissette

8 p.m.

6-9 p.m.

New extended hours

Normal Hours: M-F, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Tribal Member: Free

Non-Tribal Member

day pass: $10

Basketball shooting

machine available:

• Non-Tribal Member fee:

$20 per hour

*Payments are cash only*

• South gym available

for community

• Check in at the

Recreation office

• Weight room available

• Youth in grades 5th

and under need to be

accompanied by an adult.

Extended Hours:

If you are interested in serving, please

submit a resume and a letter of interest

explaining how you meet the criteria to:

Dr. Gena Qualls

Saginaw Chippewa Tribal College

Dean of Institutional Advancement

5805 E. Pickard St.

Mt. Pleasant, MI 48858

Email: gequalls@sagchip.org

D E A D L I N E F O R S U B M I T TA L :

F r i d ay, O c t. 2 , 2 0 2 6

QUALIFIcATIONS OF REgENTS:

1. An enrolled member of the Saginaw Chippewa Indian

Tribe of Michigan (SCIT) or another federallyrecognized tribe, band or group. If a member of SCIT

of Michigan must adhere to the tribal policy regarding

committee membership.

2. Attainment of at least twenty-five (25) years of age.

3. Significant education or work experience related to the

process of higher education or vocational training or

the administration of education or vocational training

institutions and programs.

4. Any specific requirements of organizations providing

financial or other benefits to SCTC or providing

accreditation of SCTC programs.

• Youth in grades 5th

and under need to be

accompanied by an adult.

Available at Office of

Tribal Licensing & Regulations

 Online at saginaw.ploud.net

 Or by scanning the QR code 

Inside the Saginaw Chippewa Tribal College.

5805 E. Pickard, Mt. Pleasant, Mich.

Monday-Friday, 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.

989.317.4789 | saginaw.ploud.net

Contact: 989.317.4770 or AHeidemann@sagchip.org

EntERED tO

wIn P R I Z E s !

Just for showing

up for your

appointments.

For all patients that show up to their

appointments starting Oct. 1, 2026.

P R I Z E s D R Aw n E A c H q u A R t E R :

To receive your fuel and tobacco discount you

need to have your physical loyalty card.

(3x) Oral B iO Electric Toothbrush Kits

with two refill brush heads

i f yo u h av e M i s p l a c e d yo u R c a R d :

(1x) Waterpik ION Professional Cordless

Water Flosser for each quarter

You can replace it at the Office of Tribal

Licensing & Regulations for a $5 fee.

office of tribal licensing & Regulations

Wii Maajiikwad/Recreation Center

7500 Soaring Eagle Blvd.

Mt. Pleasant, MI 48858

Contact: Recreation@sagchip.org

• Phone: 989-775-4122

• Email: OTLR@sagchip.org

2875 Gikendasso Way, Mt. Pleasant MI, 48858

Come in anytime during the month of September

to sign up, update your account or use your

card and be entered to win a prize!

R t M l o ya lt y c a R d s

Resident tRibal MeMbeRs (RtM):

Wednesdays: 5:30-7:30 p.m.

• Two basketball courts

available: one 5-on-5, and

one open court.

• Open weight room

B OARD V Ac ANcy

Ziibiwing Center: Front grand entrance lobby

Weekdays: Oct. 1-9, 2026 from 9 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

Accepting donations now through Sept. 14

Items can be dropped off at:

Ziibiwing Center Gift Shop

8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m., Monday – Friday

Contact: ChRiley@sagchip.org or 989.775.4756

Four winners drawn every quar ter

• The first entry period will go from

October to December.

• Winners will be notified by phone.

• One entry per quarter, per person.

Drawing: Wednesday, Dec. 30, 2026

How to enter:

• All patients have to do is show up to their dentist

or cleaning appointment.

• Patients will have their name removed from the drawing

if they fail to show up to any appointment in the quarter.

Appointment cancellations:

Any appointment can be canceled within 10 minutes of the

appointment, just call or text 989-775-4657 to let us know.

contact: SZondlak@sagchip.org or 989-775-4611

Public Notices

September 2026 | Tribal Observer

3 | Nswi

2027 Annual Reports

Forms available now

Deadline: Friday, Oct. 30, 2026

Tribal Clerk’s Office hours:

Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.

“ WO RK I N G TO G E TH ER F O R O UR F U T UR E ”

Notarization is required

• Forms available by mail, email and at www.sagchip.org

• No postdated forms, emails or faxes accepted

Attention Tribal Members

Tribal Council Regular

Session Meetings

are held at 9 a.m.

Regular Tribal Council Sessions

 First Tuesday of each month at 9 a.m.

 Inside the Council Chambers of the

Black Elk Government Complex

• Meetings are open to Tribal Members

• Anyone wanting to be added can call 989-775-4004

Presented by the Bureau of Indian Affairs

and the Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe

Nov. 9 & 10, 2026

• Oct. 6

Registration is now open

 Please visit:

https://www.eventbrite.com/

e/7th-annual-opioid-summittickets-1991503007104

 Or scan QR code to the right

Contact: 989.775.4805 or Carjackson@sagchip.org

 Table Games

 Bingo

 Finance

 Slots

 EVS Facilities

 Guest

Experience

 Inventory

Control

F & B

 Marketing

 Hotel

 Security

Open to SCIT Tribal Members:

• Applications online at: www.sagchip.org/careers

• Must obtain and maintain a gaming license

• Must have high school diploma or GED

• Wage: $14 an hour, full-time

- Four spots available for this program

- Learn line level skills in order to be a successful employee

- Discover which department is the best fit

For more information, please contact:

Human Resources at 989.775.5600

Board of directors Vacancy

Attention Tribal Members:

The Ziibiwing Center is seeking interested

individuals to serve on its Board of Directors.

The Ziibiwing Center is a distinctive treasure created to provide

an enriched, diversified and culturally relevant educational

experience. This promotes the society’s belief that the culture,

diversity and spirit of the Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe

of Michigan and other Great Lakes Anishinabek must be

recognized, perpetuated, communicated and supported.

• Nov. 3

These positions will be rotated

around the following departments:

For more information, please contact:

The Tribal Clerk’s Office at 989.775.4051

SECR Entertainment Hall

Regular Council Session Dates

• Sept. 1

Your 2027 Annual Report MUST be filed before/

with submitting a Tribal Loan Application.

University of Detroit Mercy School of Law students, along

with volunteer attorneys, will be conducting a FREE EXPUNGEMENT CLINIC.

Individuals will have their ICHAT (Michigan criminal

record) reviewed, be advised on eligibility for expungement, and if eligible, be provided with assistance preparing

the Application to Set Aside Conviction, along with directions for filing and next steps.

Qualifications of Members:

Please note this imPortant information:

1: A person with more than three felony convictions is NOT

eligible for expungement under Michigan Law.

2: To be eligible for an expungement: Seven years must have

passed for a person with more than one felony conviction;

Five years must have passed for a person with one felony

or a serious misdemeanor; or three years must have passed

for one or more misdemeanors, since the completion

of probation, discharge from parole, or completion of

incarceration, whichever is later.

3: Not all criminal convictions are eligible for expungement

under Michigan Law.

Requirements of Members:

Pre-REGISTRATION CLOSES: Friday, Nov. 6, 2026 at 5 p.m.

friday, nov. 13, 2026

In selecting members of the Board of Directors, with the

exception of the Ziibiwing Center curator/operations manager,

adherence shall be given to the following qualifications:

• Enrollment as a Tribal Member of the Saginaw Chippewa

Indian Tribe of Michigan;

• Attainment of at least 18 years of age.

• Financially support the Ziibiwing Center while serving on

the Board of Directors by securing and maintaining a current

Ziibiwing Center membership;

• Attend and participate in Board of Directors meetings on a

regular basis;

• Volunteer to work at least two Ziibiwing Center events per

calendar year.

Deadline: Sept. 9, 2026 at 5 p.m.

Interested members need to:

• Meet once a month on a Wednesday at 2 p.m.

• Implement the ZCS’ purpose to enlighten and educate Tribal

and community members and all other people of the world

to the culture, heritage, history and goals of the Saginaw

Chippewa Indian Tribe of Michigan.

10 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. | sCit Public safety Building

For more information, contact

and send letters of interest to:

for more information, Please Call:

William Johnson, Curator/Operations Manager

6954 E. Broadway Rd., Mt. Pleasant, MI 48858

Detroit Mercy Law Clinical Program at 313.596.0262

WJohnson@sagchip.org | 989.775.4730

Mail:

S C IT H o u s i n g D e pa r t m e n t u p d at e

ZC Board of Directors Committee

c/o William Johnson

6650 E. Broadway, Mt. Pleasant, MI 48858

Seeking Tribal

Members/Descendants

Currently seeking individuals that can

provide guided tours of the Ziibiwing

Center’s Permanent Exhibit

We are pleased to inform the community that the Otto Park project

is progressing smoothly. Attached is the most recent concept design

(approximately 60 percent complete), with a ground breaking

planned for later this year.

We look forward to sharing further project milestones as

development advances.

Planned site enhancements:

• Dedicated public parking lot

• Upgraded basketball court

• Paved walking path

• Modern playground structure

• Outdoor pavilion

• Audience: mostly K-12 school groups

• Stipends: $25 for one guided tour and $40 for two guided

tours tours daily.

• Training: We will provide free training and call a few days

before the guided tour is needed.

• Scheduled on an as-needed basis.

• The guided tour includes two pre-recorded shows one

about creation and the other is about tribal identity.

I f I n t E r E s t E d, P l E a s E C o n ta C t:

• William Johnson, Curator/Operations Manager

WJohnson@sagchip.org | 989-775-4730

• raymond Cadotte, Visitor Services Representative

RCadotte@sagchip.org | 989-775-4757

Public Notices

Tribal Observer | September 2026

Niiwin | 4

Tribal Council

Chief

Luke Sprague | District One

Sub-Chief

Craig Graveratte | District One

Secretary

Christina Otto | District One

Treasurer

Alice Jo Ricketts | District One

Sergeant-at-Arms

Bringing Your Health Home:

CHR Medication Delivery is Here!

Open to District 1 & 2 SCIT elders,

ages 60 and older

Jennifer L. Wassegijig | District One

Skip the trip to the clinic and let us come to you. The

Nimkee Clinic Community Health Representative

(CHR) team is now offering free medication delivery to

our community members.

Council Member

How it works:

Frank J. Cloutier | District Three

Chaplain

Brad Bennett | District One

1: Call the Nimkee Pharmacy to refill your prescription.

2: Request CHR Delivery through Public Health.

Tim J. Davis | District One

3: A trusted CHR will bring your meds right to your door!

Council Member

• Delivery is subject to service area boundaries and

medication eligibility.

• Exclusions apply to controlled substances and specialized

prescriptions.

• Contact Nimkee Pharmacy for details.

Council Member

Shirley Houle | District Two

Council Member

Mary Quigno | District One

Council Member

Gayle Ruhl | District One

The Seven Grandfather

TEACHINGS

Nbookaawin – Wisdom

To live with wisdom is to acquire and use experiences

as guides for making equitable and mature decisions.

Zaagidowin – Love

To live our lives with love is to understand our capacity

to realize, empathize, and nurture the needs of others.

Minaadendamoowing – Respect

To live with respect is to give mutual consideration for

shared and differing ideas as well as for the world around us.

Zoongide’ewin – Bravery

To be brave and have courage is to recognize our moral

and mental strength and to do what is appropriate.

Gwekwadiziwin – Honesty

To be honest is to recognize that we have the ability

to live our lives with honor and integrity.

Dibaadendiziwin – Humility

To live with humility is to recognize that we are all

equal, we all make mistakes, we all like to have our

success rewarded and to put others before ourselves.

Debwewin – Truth

To live in truth is to recognize the difference between right

and wrong and to be faithful to ourselves as well as the world

around us even when the right way is not the easiest way.

FUNDRAISER

Sept. 21-25, 2026

9 a.m. - 5 p.m. | ACFS Lobby

(2585 S. Leaton Rd., Mt. Pleasant, Mich.)

 Shirts: $25

Council Member

Ronald F. Ekdahl | District One

ORANGE SHIRT

*Choice of black or orange shirt

 Large decal: $9

 Small decal: $5

Contact: Nkahgegab@Sagchip.org or 989-775-4901

Whether it’s a busy schedule or a lack of transportation,

we’re here to make sure you never miss a dose.

Call 989-775-4695 to get started!

Let’s Stay Connected

The Right Way!

We love serving our community, and we want to make

sure your medical questions get the attention they deserve

via an approved and secure means of communication.

Why the change? We are experiencing higher volumes of

communication that are coming into the clinic via emails

and text messages that aren’t encrypted. To keep your

“PHI” (Protected Health Information) safe from prying

eyes, Nimkee staff will only communicate anything PHI

related through authorized, encrypted channels.

Free to Tribal Members who reside within

the IHS service area: Isabella, Clare, Midland,

Arenac, Missaukee counties

If you are experiencing problems

with your well or septic, please

contact the Planning Department.

*You must own your home.

To make an appointment, please contact:

Planning Department at 989-775-4014.

PLeaSe uSe THeSe

“GReen LIGHT” MeTHODS:

1: Patient Portal:

2. Clinic Phone: 989-775-4679.

Call us during business hours.

Monday-Friday; 8:00 am – 5:00 pm.

Note: If you’ve sent a text or an email to a staff member’s personal

account and haven’t heard back, it’s because we are protecting your

privacy! Please call the office or use the portal so we can assist you

properly. If you need assistance setting up your portal, call our

office and a staff can assist!

The Ziibiwing CenTer

w o u l d l i k e To g i v e

D r . Ro ck y S pe n c e r

for being A

2591 S. Leaton Rd., Mt. Pleasant, MI 48858

Open: Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Phone: 989.775.4600

www.sagchip.org/nimkee

P r e m i e r l ev e l m e m b e r!

Tribal Observer Adver tising

Boozhu! The Tribal Observer, a monthly newspaper,

is published on the first of each month.

• To contact Tribal Observer staff, please call 989-775-4096 or email observer@sagchip.org.

• To change your mailing address, please contact the Tribal Clerk’s office at 989-775-4055.

• Community advertisements will not be accepted over the phone.

Submissions from the Tribal community

are encouraged and can be sent to:

Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe

c/o Tribal Observer

7500 Soaring Eagle Blvd.

Mt. Pleasant, MI 48858

Subscription rates are $30 per year.

Story ideas, articles and photographs from the community are always welcome. The Tribal Observer reserves

the right to edit and/or refuse any submissions or advertisements for publication. The Tribal Observer is

published by the Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe of Michigan and is subject to an editorial review process.

The views expressed within the Tribal Observer do not necessarily reflect the views of the Tribal Observer, the

Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe, the Saginaw Chippewa Tribal Council, Soaring Eagle Casino & Resort or its

employees or any other enterprise of the Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe. The Tribal Observer works to uphold

the highest integrity in news reporting and supports the Indian Civil Rights Act of 1968.

To place an advertisement, please contact the Tribal Observer

at 989-775-4096 or Observer@sagchip.org for more information.

Announcements - Including birthday, wedding, engagement, congratulations, etc.,

costs $10 and is open to Tribal Members, community members and employees.

Double-sized announcements are $20.

Political ads - All political ads will be 1/4 page and have a red border stating as such.

The cost is $250. Political ads may include, but are not limited to, any opinion or

advertisement that is political in nature and/or any Letter to the Editor that does

not conform to guidelines.

Tribal Obser ver Subscription Form

Please send $30 for the annual subscription. Make checks out to SCIT.

Name: ___________________________________________

______________________

Address: _______________________________________

_____________________

City: _____________________

______________ State: ________ Zip: ___________

Please mail form to:

Contact Information:

Tribal Observer

7500 Soaring Eagle Blvd.

Mt. Pleasant, MI 48858

• Phone: 989-775-4096

• Email: Observer@Sagchip.org

www.Sagchip.org/TribalObserver

Public Notices

September 2026 | Tribal Observer

5 | Naanan

2 0 2 6 - 2 0 2 7 Yo u t h

CounCil ElEC tionS

SCIT B u r I a l B e n e f I T

eligibility: all SCIT Members

Elections held: nov. 19 & 20, 2026

Where: Native American Offices

For more information, contact:

Paul Walker at PWalker@sagchip.org

Small Game Season 2026

Per Tribal Ordinance 11, Section 106 subdivision 3 the

2026 Small Game Season within the exterior boundaries

of the Isabella Indian Reservation and on designated

Tribal Trust Lands outside the exterior boundaries of the

Isabella Indian Reservation shall begin Sept. 1, 2026, and

will close on March 31, 2027, unless ordered otherwise.

The 2026 Small Game Season will allow for the bag

limits as listed:

• Pheasants shall be limited to male pheasants only with

a limit of five per day.

• Badger, beaver, muskrat, mink, pine martin, fisher and

otter are all closed to small game hunting.

• Badger, beaver, muskrat, mink, pine martin, fisher and

otter will be open for Trapping Season. Bag limits per

Trapping Season Order.

• Bobcat is limited to two tags only whether hunting,

trapping or combination of seasons.

Small game species are defined in Tribal Ordinance 11,

Section 103 subdivision 66.

Licenses are available now at the Office of Tribal

Licensing & Regulations. $10 per license.

• “Other Indians” may not hunt on Tribal Trust or Tribal owned

Fee Land. Other Indians as defined in Tribal Ordinance 11,

Section 104 subdivision 52.

• Please Refer to the Ordinance 11 on the Saginaw Chippewa

Indian Tribe website for rules and regulations.

Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe

Community Engineer Donald L. Seal, Planning Department

Migratory Bird Season 2026/2027

Per Tribal Ordinance 11, Section 109 Subdivision 3 the

2026/2027 Migratory Bird Season within the exterior

boundaries of the Isabella Indian Reservation and on

designated Tribal Trust Lands outside the exterior

boundaries of the Isabella Indian Reservation shall

begin Sept. 1, 2026, and will close on Jan. 31, 2027

unless ordered otherwise. The 2026/2027 Migratory

Bird Season will allow for the bag limit as listed.

Non toxic shot only.

Migratory bird season daily bag limit:

• Ducks: 20*

• Canada Geese: 20**

• Mergansers: 10***

• Woodcock: 10

• Common Snipe: 16

• Mourning Dove: 25

• Coots & Gallinules: 20

• Sandhill Cranes: one

• Sora and Virgina Rails: 20

* Ducks 20 per day, including no more than five each of

the following species: hen mallard, wood duck, redhead,

scaup, black duck, pintail and canvasback. Possession

limit is not to exceed two times the bag limit.

** 20 per day Canada Geese aggregate. Coot, gallinule,

sora and Virginia rail is 20 in the aggregate.

***No more than five hooded mergansers in the aggregate.

A small game license is also required as per Tribal

Ordinance 11, Section 109, Subdivision 2.

Licenses are available now at the Office of Tribal

Licensing & Regulations. Fee is $10 per license.

• “Other Indians” may not hunt on Tribal Trust or Tribal owned

Fee Land. Other Indians as defined in Tribal Ordinance 11,

Section 104 subdivision 52.

• Please Refer to the Ordinance 11 on the Saginaw Chippewa

Indian Tribe website for rules and regulations. Hunters must

observe all other basic Federal Migratory bird hunting

regulations in 50 CRF part 20.

Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe

Community Engineer Donald L. Seal, Planning Department

Saginaw C

higan

Meetings are held the first

Tuesday of each month at

6 p.m. at the Ziibiwing Center.

a Indian Tr

• SCIT Tribal Member

• Must be 12-20 years old

• Five signatures are required from

youth of a federally-recognized Tribe U T H C O U N C

VeterAn memberS

Mic

Requirements

Anishinabe Ogitchedaw Veteran

and Warrior Society is in need of

*Only allowed to vote once

Packets available: Oct. 1, 2026

• Visit Native American Office or Tribal Clerk’s Office

Packets due: Nov. 2, 2026 by 5 p.m. NO EXCEPTIONS!

• To the Tribal Clerk’s Office

• Must have five signatures

Swearing in: Dec. 8, 2026 at 4 p.m.

• Council Chambers, Black Elk Building

P r o c e s s : The personal representative and/or the heirs of

the deceased tribal member shall be responsible for promptly

notifying the Tribe of the member’s death by contacting the

Tribal Clerk’s Office at 989.775.4051

After initial contact with the Clerk’s Office, a burial packet

will be available for pick up or overnight mail for those

residing outside Isabella County.

for more information regarding the

breakdown of the Burial assistant

Program, please contact:

Tribal Clerk’s office at 989-775-4051

For more information, email: youthcouncil@sagchip.org

www.sagchip.org/youthcouncil

Fall Wild Turkey Season 2026

Per Tribal Ordinance 11, Section 105

subdivision 6(B), the 2026 Fall Wild Turkey

Season within the exterior boundaries of the

Isabella Indian Reservation and on designated

Tribal Trust Lands outside the exterior

boundaries of the Isabella Indian Reservation

shall begin Sept. 15, 2026, and will close Oct.

31, 2026, unless ordered otherwise.

The 2026 Fall Wild Turkey Season will allow

for the harvest of one Turkey, either sex.

Licenses and harvest tags are available now

at the Office of Tribal Licensing & Regulations

at $10 per tag. Only one tag allowed.

• Other Indians” may not hunt on Tribal Trust or Tribal owned

Fee Land. Other Indians as defined in Tribal Ordinance 11,

Section 104 subdivision 52.

Per Tribal Ordinance 11, Section 105 subdivision

5(B) animal harvest must be reported within 72

hours of take by phone, email or online.

• Please refer to Ordinance 11 on the Saginaw Chippewa Indian

Tribe website for rules and regulations.

Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe

Community Engineer Donald L. Seal, Planning Department

Special Elder and Mentored

Youth Deer Hunt 2026

Per Tribal Ordinance 11, Section 105 subdivision 6(B) the

2026 Special Elder and Mentored Youth Deer Hunt within

the exterior boundaries of the Isabella Indian Reservation

and on designated Tribal Trust Lands outside the exterior

boundaries of the Isabella Indian Reservation shall begin

Sept. 1, 2026 and will close on Sept. 6, 2026, unless ordered

otherwise. Further restrictions shall be as follows:

• Tribal Member youth for the purpose of this hunt are

defined as ages 10 to 17 years of age.

• Youth participants ages 14-17 must be accompanied

by a tribally-licensed adult mentor, at least 21 years of

age, under Tribal Ordinance 11.

• Youth participants ages 10-14 must be accompanied

by a tribal licensed parent or guardian.

Pursuant to Ordinance 11, Section 105, Subdivision

2(B): under 14 years of age must be accompanied by

a licensed parent or guardian.

• The mentor is not allowed to carry any hunting

device (firearm, bow or crossbow) in the field while

accompanying the youth hunter.

• Ages 10-14 years are only eligible to use a bow for

this hunt.

• Ages 14-17 years are eligible to use a bow or firearm

for this hunt.

• Tribal elders for the purposes of this hunt is defined as

50 years of age or older. The license for this hunt may

not be assigned to a proxy hunter.

The 2026 Special Elder and Mentored Youth Hunt will

allow for the harvest of one deer. Licenses and harvest

tags are available now, at the Office of Tribal Licensing

& Regulations at $10 per harvest tag. Only one tag is

allowed for this special hunt.

• All other portions of Tribal Ordinance 11 must still be followed.

• Please Refer to the Ordinance 11 on the Saginaw Chippewa

Indian Tribe website for rules and regulations.

• Hunter orange is in accordance with Tribal Ordinance 11, Section

104 subdivision 5 and harvest reporting is to be in accordance

with Tribal Ordinance 11, Section 105, Subdivision 5(B)

Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe

Community Engineer Donald L. Seal, Planning Department

Deer Season 2026

Per Tribal Ordinance 11, Section 105 subdivision 6(B)

the 2026 Deer Season within the exterior boundaries

of the Isabella Indian Reservation and on designated

Tribal Trust Lands outside the exterior boundaries

of the Isabella Indian Reservation shall begin Sept.

7, 2026, and will close on Feb. 1, 2027 unless ordered

otherwise. Further restrictions shall be as follows:

• Sept. 7, 2026 - Oct. 31, 2026 shall be bow only

• Nov. 1, 2026 - Feb. 1, 2027 shall be bow or gun

The 2026 Deer Season will allow for the harvest of

five deer as follows:

• Three antlerless* Antlerless gives the ability to take an

anterless deer or a deer with antlers less than three inches in

length (Ordinance 11, Section 103, Subdivision 2.)

• One restricted (restricted to four or more one inch

minimum points on one side)

• One antlered (any size antlered)

Licenses and harvest tags will be available starting Aug.

25, 2026 at the Office of Tribal Licensing & Regulations

$10 per harvest tag. Only five tags are allowed.

• “Other Indians” may not hunt on Tribal Trust or Tribal owned

Fee Land. Other Indians as defined in Tribal Ordinance 11,

Section 104 subdivision 52.

Per Tribal Ordinance 11, Section 105, Subdivision 5(B).

Animal harvest must be reported within 72 hours of

take by phone, email or online.

• Please refer to the Ordinance 11 on the Saginaw Chippewa

Indian Tribe website for rules and regulations.

• Hunter orange is in accordance with Tribal Ordinance 11, Section

104 subdivision 5 and harvest reporting is to be in accordance

with Tribal Ordinance 11, Section 105, Subdivision 5(B)

• Tribal lands designated for hunting are provided by the map

located at the Tribe’s Planning Department or Office of Tribal

Licensing and Regulations.

Tree stands/blinds are only permitted on Tribal

property one week before the start of deer season as

stated above and must be removed one week after

deer season close date as stated above; remaining

items will be confiscated. No screw-in tree steps,

spikes, etc. are permitted except bow/gun hooks. Tree

stands/blinds must have name and address affixed in

a visible area, or they will be subject to confiscation.

Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe

Community Engineer Donald L. Seal, Planning Department

Trapping Season 2026

Per Tribal Ordinance 11, Section 108 subdivision

2, the 2026 Trapping Season within the exterior

boundaries of the Isabella Indian Reservation and

on designated Tribal Trust Lands outside the exterior

boundaries of the Isabella Indian Reservation shall

begin Oct. 15, 2026, and will close April 29, 2027,

unless ordered otherwise.

• Badger and otter limit two per season (tag included with license).

• Bobcat1 is limited to two tags only whether hunting, trapping or

combination of seasons.

• Muskrat, mink, beaver, raccoon, fox1, coyote1, skunk, weasel and

opossum will not have a bag limit for the trapping season.

• No conibare style traps larger than 220 size (7”x7” jaw) may be used

on land unless made inaccessible to cats and dogs at ground level.

Licenses will be available starting Oct. 1, 2026 at the

Office of Tribal Licensing & Regulations. Fee is $10

per license.

*Other Indians” may not hunt on Tribal Trust or Tribal owned Fee Land.

Other Indians as defined in Tribal Ordinance 11, Section 104

subdivision 52.

Please refer to Tribal Ordinance 11 on the Saginaw

Chippewa Indian Tribe website for rules and regulations.

Small Game License required to hunt bobcat, coyote and fox.

Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe

Community Engineer Donald L. Seal, Planning Department

Tribal Community

Tribal Observer | September 2026

Ngodwaaswi | 6

Two-day 12th annual Soaring Eagle Open held on two Mount Pleasant golf courses

Natalie Shat tuck

Editor

It was the 12th annual year for the Soaring Eagle

Open, a two-day golf tournament, played between

the Mount Pleasant Country Club and PohlCat Golf

Course in Mount Pleasant, on Aug. 15-16.

The overall champions this year were Beard,

Butler and Caliguri with 114.

This year saw four flight winners.

There was a 9 a.m. shotgun start both days and

lunch at the turn.

An awards banquet dinner was held in the Soaring

Eagle Casino & Resort’s Black River and Swan

Creek ballrooms at 4 p.m. that Sunday.

A portion of this year’s sponsorship proceeds went

towards the funding of $1,000 scholarships for local

high school and college students.

The scholarship recipients were: Tyson Faber,

Allex Leaureaux, Jackson Vance and Quinten Etcher.

“The fourth Friday in September of each year shall be

known as Michigan Indian Day. This date is not to be

construed as a legal holiday.”

Although Michigan Indian Day was enacted in 1974, it

did not gain momentum until 2007 when the House of

Representatives resolved the following:

Michigan Indian Day is an excellent opportunity for Michigan

citizens to better understand and appreciate the many

contributions that people of Native American descent have

made to our state.

The State of Michigan has the ninth largest population of

American Indians in the country − more than 125,000.

Native American people have made vast contributions to the

landscape, culture, history, politics and economy of Michigan.

Today, Native American people significantly contribute to

environmental protection by setting an example of good

stewardship, intergovernmental and international accord to

oppose diversion of Great Lakes Basin waters.

Michigan should designate a day to focus attention on the many

cultural and historical contributions of Michigan’s Native

American community.

As a sovereign nation the Saginaw Chippewa Indian

Tribe of Michigan recognizes and celebrates this as an

established Tribal Holiday.

Information provided by: Ziibiwing Center of Anishinabe Culture & Lifeways

Wednesday, Sept. 9, 2026 • 7 a.m. - 7 p.m.

Thursday, Sept. 10, 2026 • 7 a.m. - 12 p.m.

In preparation for open enrollment, which will be held from Oct. 1-31, 2026.

SECR Entertainment Hall

6800 Soaring Eagle Blvd. Mt. Pleasant, MI 48858

Open to all team members

( TOPS/SECR/SELC/MIGIZI)

Win door prizes!

To qualify for the drawing, please visit

at least 75 percent of the attending

vendors. All eligible par ticipants will be

entered into a drawing for a variety of

door prizes and gift cards.

 The Benefits Fair is designed with you in mind;

to empower you to make informed decisions about

your health and wellness.

 This is your opportunity to learn about the various

benefits available to you and get your questions

answered directly by our vendor partners.

 Take control of your health and financial future

in one convenient event! We encourage you to take

full advantage of this event.

Featured Vendors:

• UMR: Learn about your Medical TPA

benefits and discover your medical

network options.

• RxBenefits: Explore your Pharmacy

Benefit Manager services.

• Delta Dental: Understand your dental

coverage.

• Symetra: Find out about life, disability,

and ancillary products offered at SCIT.

• Delta Vision: Find out more about the

offered vision benefits.

• Family Advantage Health Plan:

Learn more about the new offering FAHP.

• HealthCheck360: Engage with our

wellness partner.

• Saginaw Chippewa Benefits Team:

Stop by and visit with your very own

Benefits team! Ask questions and

prepare for open enrollment.

• And many more attendees!

For more information, please contact: Benefits Hotline at 989-775-5770

Tribal Community

September 2026 | Tribal Observer

7 | Niizhwaaswi

Nimkee, community celebrate retirement of Dr. Eisenmann after 34 years of service

Mat thew Wright

Staff Writer

The Nimkee Memorial Wellness

Center hosted a retirement

celebration for Dr. Deborah

Eisenmann, M.D., on Friday

Aug. 21.

Tribal Council members,

Nimkee staff and community

members came together to celebrate a life well worked and

a future well earned from 3 to

5 p.m. at the Native Farmers

Market Pavilion.

The celebration featured fellowship, music, and cake and

cupcakes, along with an honor

song provided by community

drummers.

“It has been my pleasure to

work at Nimkee for the last 34

years,” Eisenmann said. “The

growth in size and services

provided at Nimkee in that

time have been an asset to the

SCIT community, and I appreciate having been a part of that

growth. Although I will miss

our staff and patients, it is time

Tribal Council members, Nimkee staff and community members come together to celebrate the retirement of

Dr. Deborah Eisenmann (seventh from left, front) on Friday, Aug. 21 at the Native Farmers Market Pavilion.

A cake for Eisenmann’s

retirement.

to move on to the next phase of

my life with August 28 being

my last day here.”

An honor song is performed

during the celebration.

Dr. Eisenmann (center) is presented a pendleton

blanket for her 34 years of service by Chief Luke Sprague

(left) and Council Member Brad Bennett (right).

Drum Contest

POWWOW

R E S U LT S

Platinum Age

Men

Women

Albert King Sr.

Reg Pettibone

Mike King

Greg Morsaw

LadyBird Jack

Lorriane Shananaquuet

Edwina Tortalitta

Katherine Rapheal

Traditional

Combined

Anne Marie Prue-White

Lisa Passinault

Stephanie Antone

Teresa R.

Dolly Pucan

Joyce Petoskey

Donna Pinnance

Dawn Shenoskey

Golden Age Men

Traditional

Combined

Johnson T.

Jef Keeble

Jefferson Bellew IV

Walker StoneFish

Kevin Kingbird

Russ Blackbird

Gary Gibson

Grass

Fancy

Traditional

Adam Tsosie Nordwall

Lee Jack Jr.

Darryle Bolton

Loren Warner

Nigel Schuyler

Wesley Cleland Sr.

William M.

Brando Jack

LittleMan Quintero

Cruz Perez

Wesley Hale

Fancy

Jingle

Traditional

Star Whiteeye

Katy Isennock

Autumn Hart

Danielle Gibson

Sheena C.

Jovelle Schuyler

Heather Syrette

Stephanie Nordwall

Alexa Rae Day

Wassay Pyawasit

Brenda Wabanimkee

Judy Robinson

Junior Adult Women

Grass

Fancy

Traditional

Chad Star

Marshall Baker

Adam Bodie Nordwall

Payton Mingo

Chaske Hill

Bubba C.

Albert King Jr.

Dawson Grignon

Nodin Aguash

Darian Benmo

Giizhik Bressette

Skyler Alsup

Fancy

Jingle

Traditional

Lara Lasley

Tavian Star

Maniyee Jack

Decora Monoessy

Raena Lasley

Asalia Quigno

Shay Hale

Kayla Dreaver

Nichole Nordwall

Liliana Mars

Dezirea Monoessy

Kimora Okimosh

Teen Boy

Teen Girl

Grass

Fancy

Traditional

Aydian Day

Jarvis Bear Jr.

Aspen D.

Braden Locklear

Dennis Whiteye

Wam Marshall

Erich Lehman

Dazer Pitawanakwat

Anthony Monoessy Jr.

Jesse Bear

Braycee Gibbs

Fancy

Jingle

Traditional

Haliee Pinnance

Kisay Dreaver

July Hunter

Kaliyah Sword

Keshina Jack

Niizh Wemigwans

Kathryn Avilies

Faye Wemigwans

Ne'Naya Jack

Keya Taylor

Miskomin Wesaw

Marley Aisup

Junior Boys

Meskwaki Nation

Cinnamon Bear

ScuffleTown Society

Ribbon Town

Woodland Stream

The Platoon

Senior Adult Women

Junior Adult Men

Golden Age Women

Senior Adult Men

Junior Girls

Grass

Fancy

Traditional

Niigaanii Star

Jonas Miller

Kane Patterson

August Grant

Lawarence Shock

Albert King III

Dyami Whiteye

Keaton Kingbird

Aziel Shananaquet

David Pitawanakwat

Holls Williams Perez

Makai Dwyer

Fancy

Jingle

Traditional

Jozzlyn Shomin

Lilyana Rapheal

Waashonenhs Recollet

Joslyn Gervais

Hazel Hale

Nyla Pyawasit

Eyaska Taylor

Joey Jimenez

Cedar Gibbs

Camille Nordwall

Autumn Aviles

Aliyah Velez

Entertainment

Tribal Observer | September 2026

Nshwaaswi | 8

The Lumineers, Josiah and the Bonnevilles bring folk-rock hits to SECR

Mat thew Wright

Staff Writer

The Soaring Eagle Casino

& Resort welcomed The

Lumineers and Josiah and the

Bonnevilles on Sunday, July

19, as part of the Outdoor

Summer Concert Series.

The Lumineers delivered an

emotional, warm, energetic and,

overall, crowd-friendly performance. The band has a real talent

for turning large concert venues

into what feels like an intimate

communal folk-rock sing-along.

Their set began with the

hits “Same Old Song” and

“Flowers in Your Hair.”

Next up was the soft acoustic

guitar and piano-infused melody

of “Angela,” followed by “A.M.

RADIO” and “Gale Song.”

Lead

vocalist

Wesley

Schultz encouraged the audience to sing along to the hit

song “Ho Hey,” leading to one

of the highlights of the night.

Next up was “Dead Sea,”

followed by the fan favorites “Ophelia,” “Sleep on the

Floor,” and “Gloria.”

The band performed all of

their major favorites including

“WHERE WE ARE,” “April”

and “Salt and the Sea.”

The communal feeling was,

again, on full display during the

performance of “Big Parade.”

The Lumineers perform on the Soaring Eagle Casino & Resort’s outdoor stage on Sunday, July 19.

Each band member took turns

singing the verses of the song.

The Lumineers brought

the night to an end with

“Submarines,”

“Cleopatra”

and “Stubborn Love.”

Opening for The Lumineers

was indie folk band Josiah and

the Bonnevilles.

Lead singer Josiah Leming’s

gravelly, bluesy vocals led

the way alongside a full band

accompaniment.

The band played many of

their biggest songs including

“Stolen Love,” “Good Boy,”

“Carolina Heart,” “Ghost,”

“Red Line,” “Blood Moon”

and “Going Gone.”

Josiah and the Bonnevilles lead singer Josiah Leming (left) is joined on stage by his bandmates.

Exclusive Tribal Member

Opportunity

LIFT-ME is an exclusive business incubator program intended

to nurture, support, and grow Tribal Member Entrepreneurship

in the Great Lakes Bay Region. LIFT-ME is a cohort-based

program hosting up to 12 participants and will last 5–7 months

focusing on early-stage business development such as •Business Model Refinement

•Legal and Entity Structuring

•Accounting and Bookkeeping

•Financial Planning

•Branding and Marketing

•Website Development

•Certification, Licensing, and/or Compliance

•Strategic Planning, Implementation, and Support

•Networking events and personalized one-on-one guidance

•Connection to state and federal small business programs

Each cohort is limited to 12 enrolled

Members of the Saginaw Chippewa

Indian Tribe of Michigan. For further

information, visit Migiziedc.com or

CMURC.com to review and begin your

LIFT-ME application process today.

Apply Now!

Entertainment

September 2026 | Tribal Observer

9 | Zhaangswi

Jonas Brothers, Boys Like Girls perform hit songs that helped shape younger generation

Natalie Shat tuck

Editor

Three musical brothers, one

hometown tour, and one

screaming crowd. The Jonas

Brothers, with special guests

Boys Like Girls, brought their

“JONAS20: Greetings from

Your Hometown Tour” to

the Soaring Eagle Casino &

Resort’s outdoor stage.

The Wednesday, Aug. 5

Soaring Eagle show was featured as one of the tour’s encore

performances. The tour celebrated Jonas Brothers’ 20th

anniversary tour, and relived

the nostalgic hits that shaped

the younger generation.

The American pop-rock band

performed a 75-minute set,

beginning at about 9:15 p.m.

Brothers Kevin, Joe, and

Nick Jonas confidently brought

the dynamism and displayed

solid stage presence.

Their concert kicked off

with a greetings video intro,

followed by “Love Me to

Heaven,” “Shelf,”

“Only

Human,” “S.O.S.,” “Sucker,”

“That’s Just the Way We Roll”

and “Play My Music.”

Jonas Brothers (left to right: Nick, Joe and Kevin) perform on

the Soaring Eagle outdoor stage during their “Greetings from

Your Hometown Tour” stop on Wednesday, Aug. 5.

The brothers’ first record

made its release on a Disneyowned record label which

gained popularity on the

Disney Channel. From there,

Jonas Brothers were featured

on their own shows on the

channel.

Acoustic performances of

“Gotta Find You,” “This Is Me”

and “Introducing Me” were

performed that lovely summer

evening. “Turn Right” and

“Rollercoaster” were the acoustic fan requests performed.

Collectively, the brothers

have produced many hits. In

their musical careers, each of

them have also launched solo

careers.

Some of those songs produced from their solo careers

were also performed including:

DNCE’s “Cake by the Ocean,”

Michael Ekdahl (fourth from left) and his

mother, Rosemary, share a backstage

moment with Boys Like Girls.

Nick Jonas’ “Jealous,” and

Kevin Jonas’ “Changing.”

Jonas

Brothers

ended

their spectacular show with

“Burnin’ Up,” “When You

Look Me in the Eyes” and

“Leave Before You Love Me.”

Prior to Jonas Brothers,

Boys Like Girls performed a

60-minute set, beginning at

about 7:45 p.m.

What a way to open the

show – with anthemic hits, high

energy and screaming fans.

During the smash hit “Love

Drunk!” specifically, the

crowd was notably loud and

appreciative. Boys Like Girls

were the perfect band to set

the tone for the liveliness that

evening.

On Aug. 16, Jonas Brothers

announced their nationwide

“Burning Up Tour All Over

Again,” which will begin soon

– in the Fall 2026.

Eric Church, Ashley McBryde deliver high-energy country music performances

Mat thew Wright

Staff Writer

Country musicians Eric Church

and Ashley McBryde brought

their hits to the outdoor concert stage of the Soaring Eagle

Casino & Resort. The Friday,

Aug. 14 event was part of

the venue’s Summer Outdoor

Concert Series.

Eric Church has gained

a huge following with his

gritty, often rebelliously-spirited blend of modern country

rock. His music is driven by

distorted guitars, southern

swagger, anthemic choruses,

and raspy vocals.

He began with the hit

song “Cold One,” before

transitioning in to a cover of

Queen’s “Fat Bottomed Girls.”

Church kept the good

times rolling with “Pledge

Allegiance to the Hag,” “Hell

of a View,” “Stick That in Your

Country Song” and “Bleed on

Paper.”

The crowd buzzed with the

rowdy, feel good hit “Drink in

My Hand” followed by “Mr.

Misunderstood,” “Round Here

Buzz,” “Country Music Jesus”

and “Desperate Man.”

Next up was the heartfelt

single “Homeboy” followed

by “Smoke a Little Smoke,”

“Creepin’,” “Talladega” and

“Some of It.”

Church changed it up with

a cover of The Rolling Stone’s

“Gimme

Shelter”

before

transitioning into his hit songs

“Give Me Back My Hometown”

and “Record Year.”

The set ended with the nostalgic hit song “Springsteen.”

Opening for Eric Church

was

GRAMMY®,

CMA

and ACM award-winning

singer-songwriter

Ashley

McBryde. She thrilled audience members with her powerful, gritty voice.

Her set began with the

hard-driving country rock hit

“Arkansas Mud,” followed

by “Water in the River,”

“One Night Standards” and

“Behind Bars.”

Next up was the gritty,

southern-rock infused hits

“Rattlesnake Preacher” and

“Creosote.”

McBryde played many

more fan favorites that

night including “Brenda Put

Your Bra On,” “What If We

Don’t,” “El Dorado,” “Hand

Me Downs” and “Lines in

the Carpet.”

Her set came to a close

with “Girl Goin’ Nowhere,”

“Ten to Midnight” and “Tired

of Being Happy.”

For more information on

upcoming shows, please visit

the Soaring Eagle Casino

& Resort website at www.

soaringeaglecasino.com.

Ashley McBryde (left) performs on

the outdoor concert stage.

Representing Home Buyers & Sellers

TRIBAL MEMBER-FOCUSED REAL ESTATE

Connect with a Realtor® who honors your

traditions and goals.

CALL TODAY!

NICK BONSTELLE

989-600-9806

TRIBALREALESTATESALES.COM

Eric Church (right) lifts his drink to the audience during his Friday, Aug. 14 Soaring Eagle concert.

Brokered by Partners Real Estate Professionals, P.C. | 810.220.7653

Tribal College

Tribal Observer | September 2026

Midaaswi | 10

If there’s a will, you better believe there’s an Ojibway

SCTC Student

Success Center

Say yes to college success

- Gashi’ewiziwin: It is my

great pleasure to welcome you

to Saginaw Chippewa Tribal

College. We are committed to

providing an education that

prepares students to think critically, creatively, and guided by

our Seven Grandfather teachings. We provide opportunities

to obtain business, liberal arts,

sciences associate, or Native

studies degrees. We strive to

provide all students with the

support necessary to excel in

college and life.

Life happens – Time for

Oshkaabewis: Ever feel lost?

Do you want to know the

secrets to college success? Our

success coaches are here for

you. They know what it takes

to be successful at the Tribal

College Success Coaches - Joe Genia and Jayme Green

5805 E. Pickard St. Mount Pleasant

Saginaw Chippewa Tribal College

Saginaw Chippewa Tribal College is a tribally controlled land grant institution that reflects and promotes the unique culture of the

Anishinaabek Community, designed with educational excellence to empower learners to reach their educational goals.

College. Your coach will help

you plan for the future and give

you peace of mind.

Why success coaches Nikanihk

Nikanihkewin:

Students are advised to meet

with a student success coach

at least once per semester. The

success coaches engage students in conversation to help

them explore their passions,

goals, and campus opportunities

while empowering them to succeed at SCTC.

During our meetings, we

co-create success plans, identify

obstacles and support networks,

help strategize solutions and

next steps. We use the Seven

Grandfather Teachings as a

basis for a success plan. Our

evidence shows meeting with

a success coach at least once

during the semester - results in

86 percent retention rate.

For more information about

the success coaches or success

plan, contact Jayme Green

jagreen@sagchip.edu

and/or

Joe Genia at jogenia@sagchip.

edu or call 989-317-4821.

Editorial: Tribal College hosts Big Campus Bash

steAM Ag student Organization & Connected Community Coalition

*This is a drug and alcohol free event*

saturday, Oct. 10, 2026

1-4 p.m. | Seventh Generation (7957 E. Remus Rd.)

Competition check in begins: 12 p.m.

Competition portion: 1-2 p.m.

Open mic: 2:30-4 p.m.

Rules:

• Five-minute limit

• PG rating

• Participants have to sign a liability

waiver and picture release forms

PRIZes:

Adult Category (ages 18 and up): $100

Youth Category (ages 12-17): $100

Audience Pick (all contestants): $50

W h At t O e x P e C t:

Food trucks

Vendors:

$10 per table

• A day of poetry, songs, recitals,

instrumental, dance, etc.

• Bring your own lawn chair

t O R e g I s t e R , C O n tA C t:

• Jonna@comm-works.org

• TLawson@sagchip.edu

Saginaw Chippewa

Tribal College

What an incredible Big Campus Bash at the

Saginaw Chippewa Tribal College last month!

We are so grateful for the amazing turnout and for every student, staff member, and

community guest who joined us on campus.

Your energy, presence, and support truly

made this event something special for our

SCTC family.

At SCTC, events like this remind us

what community is all about—coming

together to connect, learn, celebrate, and

support one another. Thank you for being

part of that spirit.

A heartfelt thank you goes out to our dedicated SCTC team. Your hard work, teamwork, and commitment behind the scenes

made this event possible, and we appreciate everything you do to uplift our campus

community every day.

We are proud of what we accomplished

together and even more proud of the strong,

connected SCTC community we continue to

build. Thank you for making this year’s Big

Campus Bash a success!

I m p o r ta n t D at e s & E v e n t s

• Sept. 7 | Labor Day (campus closed)

• Sept. 14 & 28 | STEAM AG Student

Organization Meeting| 12-1 p.m.

• Sept. 25 | Michigan Indian Day

(campus closed)

• Oct. 10 | Open Mic Night | 1-4 p.m.

Seventh Generation

• Oct. 30 | Last day to withdraw

• Nov. 25 | Thanksgiving break

(campus closes at 5 p.m.)

*No night classes

50/50 raffle

Donations are

appreciated

Join the SCTC Land Grant Office for the annual Manoomin

Camp to learn about the importance of one of our sacred foods.

Participate in harvesting, parching, jigging, winnowing,

cleaning, toolmaking and cooking Manoomin.

Harvest Manoomin:

Sept. 21, 2026

7 a.m. - 7 p.m. | Tawas Lake

• Departing SCTC at 7 a.m.

(5805 Pickard Rd., Mt. Pleasant, Mich.)

• Transportation provided for 12 people

on a first come, first serve basis.

• If you have your own transportation and would like

to follow, please meet at the Tribal College at 7 a.m.

• Snacks and lunch provided

• Water ceremony held before harvesting.

• Limited to first 20 people to sign up.

• Bring: push pole, knockers, cooper cup,

and skirt if you have them.

Manoomin Camp:

Sept. 25 & 26, 2026

9 a.m. - 5 p.m. | 7th Generation

• Dec. 7-11 | Exam week

(7957 E. Remus Rd. Mt. Pleasant, Mich.)

• Presenter: Roger LaBine

• Public welcome: If space and resources become limited, Tribal

Member participation in hands-on activities will be prioritized.

• Breakfast and lunch by Indigenous Chef Sam Anglin

• Please bring your own feast bundle

• Dec. 11 | Semester ends

Contact: 989.317.4827 or KHart@sagchip.edu

• Nov. 30 | Thanksgiving ends

(campus opens at 8 a.m.)

*Classes resume

Tribal College

September 2026 | Tribal Observer

11 | Midaaswi-shi-bezhig

SCTC

hosts

Mshiikenh

Run/Walk

Aug.

Mat thew Wright

Staff Writer

The Saginaw Chippewa Tribal

College hosted its Mshiikenh

5K Run/Walk on Wednesday,

Aug. 5. The annual event was

held behind the college’s new

location at 5805 Pickard Rd. in

Mount Pleasant.

The free event began at 6:30

p.m., with 69 participants running or walking on the former

Waabooz Run golf course.

The top male finisher was

Cooper Green (19:58).

The top female finisher was

Rebekah Huber (23:46).

Participants received a custom event T-shirt, with the top

finishers also receiving prizes.

Top female finisher

Rebekah Huber (left)

and top male finisher

Cooper Green (right) pose

after running the SCTC

Mshiikenh 5K on Aug. 5

We’re excited to announce the official launch of SCTC’s online store!

Now you can shop your favorite

SCTC apparel, accessories, and spirit

gear anytime, anywhere. Whether

you’re a student, alumni, faculty

member, or proud supporter, there’s

something for everyone to show

off your SCTC pride!

Saginaw Chippewa Tribal

College is a tribally controlled

land grant institution that

reeects and promotes the

cultu of the

unique culture

Anishinaabek community,

designed with educational

excellence to empower learners

to reach their educational goals.

• Convenient online shopping

• Exclusive SCTC merchandise

• Perfect gifts

Don’t miss out — browse the

collection today and represent

SCTC in style! Visit the online

store now and start shopping!

sctcstore.itemorder.com/

Adopt a Pet

Dixie

Dixie is a medium female Domestic Long Hair mix. Dixie

enjoys a quiet environment where she can take things at her

own pace. She would thrive with a family who understands that

the best friendships are worth the wait. Whether she’s relaxing

in a cozy bed, watching the world from a sunny window, or

accepting gentle pets, Dixie is happiest when she knows how

much she is loved.

You can

bank on us

Open an Account at

ICCUonline.com

Frida

Frida is a large female Cane Corso mix. Frida has a sweet,

affectionate personality and a loyal heart. She is a little more

reserved when meeting new people, but once she warms up,

she loves being close to her people. She has a wonderful

balance of gentle affection and quiet confidence; making

her a lovely companion for someone looking for a devoted

best friend.

Humane Animal Treatment Society • Hatsweb.org

Address: 1105 S. Isabella Rd., Mt. Pleasant, MI 48858 | Phone: 989.775.0830

Email: hats.caninesupervisor@gmail.com or hats.felinedepartment@gmail.com

Walk-in hours: M-F, 1-5 p.m. *Other times available by appointment*

ICCUonline.com·989-773-5927

Federally Insured by NCUA

Elders

Tribal Observer | September 2026

Midaaswi-shi-niizh | 12

Andahwod Continuing Care Community and Elder Ser vices

Elders’ September 2026 Newslet ter

SEPTEMBER 2 0 2 6 T r i b a l E l d e r B i r t h d ay s

Timothy Walraven

Timothy Pete

Jamie VanDerSteen

Deanna Campbell

Joyce Ervin

Diane Leksche

Mark Ojeda-Vasquez

Nancy Coleman

Bonnie Jackson

Michelle Yoder

Doyletta Good

Joseph Smith Sr.

Christine Baird

Bonnie Nedwash

Michelle Colwell

Wilma Bennett

David Chatfield

17) Jon Beaulieu Sr.

Clifford Collins

Darcy Crampton

Barbara Huffine

Kristine Smith

Lela Walker

Laura Perez

s C i t e l d e R s d ay t R i p

Selene Moore

Cherin Rossbach

Sandra Rubin-Warner

Edison Pelcher

Richard Smith Jr.

Tribal Elder Birthdays

Laura Schaad

Michelle Stanton

David Buche

Lance Peters

Arthur Steele

Jacqueline Baker

Sherry Obrecht

Tracey Olivier

Marion Roth

Kelly Chamberlain

Andrew Naganashe

Christopher Fallis

Stephanie Slater

Mark Chapoton

Salina Jackson

Forrest Jackson

Robert Waynee Jr.

Elizabeth Hughes

Sharon Cole

Florence White

Amelia Hinton

10) Dawn Briggs

Kimberly Lewis

11) Darlene Watkins

Kimberly Stowell

21) Perry Bailey Jr.

Michael Bearden

Brian Peters

Monique Dyer

Barbara Bennett-Fleming

includes:

• Round trip motorcoach transportation

* Elders must ride motorcoach to attend

• Admission to game (52 tickets – section 116)

sCit elders may sign up a non-sCit elder

spouse or caretaker:

• SCIT elder deposit: $25 • Non-SCIT elder fee: $25

*Cash or money order only!

Contact: Andahwod at 989.775.4300

29) Agnes Flynn

Dianne Nelson

Jerome Pigeon Jr.

Marcella Wing

Anthony Davis

30) Donald Chippewa Sr.

Sonja Sowmick

Thomas Kerns Jr.

Glen Bennett

Matthew Robison

24) Jerry Douglas

Maurice Pego Jr.

Garry Douglas

Jennifer Jones

16) Tonya Fallis

Karen Gibson

Sharll Hudson

open: Sept. 1 Closes: Sept. 14

52 spots available!

28) Fitzgerald Stevens

23) Judith Mays

Louise Smith

Rita Medina

15) Gary Rueckert Sr.

Andrew Byce Sr.

Rodney Dutton

R e g i s t R at i o n :

27) Sheridan Pelcher

David Wilson

Tonia Bliss

Kristine DePeel

22) Lori Nahdee

Angela Peters

Jacqueline Ortiz

Melissa Mays

Thomas Fallis

Jessica Chamberlain

14) Doreen Eggleston

Jeffrey Brown

Eugene Ives Jr.

Julie Treib

Carla Cummins

(2100 Woodward Ave., Detroit, MI 48201)

26) Matthew Seger

Martin Curry

Lucinda Graverette-Smith

Janet Kerns

Lena Jackson

20) Charles Jackson

13) Louanna Bruner

Shellie Pelcher

Darci Tucker

Loralee Werth

Sheligh Jackson

Game starts at 3:10 p.m. at Comerica Park

25) L. E. Reed Jr.

Mark Godbey

Kevin O’Brien

Barry Skutt Jr.

19) Brenda Gardner

Paul Chamberlain

12) Myria Carr

Michael Chamberlain

Jeffrey Pigeon Jr.

David Stevens

Detroit Tigers vs. Pittsburgh Pirates

game day: sunday, sept. 27, 2026

Join us for our new Caregiver Support Group where people with common experiences, or concerns, can provide

each other with encouragement, comfort and advice,

while promoting emotional and moral support.

Thursday, Sept. 24, 2026

September is Healthy Aging Month

4 - 5 p.m. | Andahwod Craft Room

(2910 S Leaton Rd, Mt. Pleasant, MI 48858)

Open to elder caregivers or

those caring for elders.

 Physical health: Move daily with moderate exercise, eat nutrient

rich foods and maintain regular medical screenings.

 Mental fitness: Keep the brain active by learning new skills,

reading, or taking up hobbies.

 This group is confidential and

a safe place to share those

concerns, seek solutions to

challenging situations, and

offer support to each other.

 Light refreshments will be served

 Social connection: Avoid isolation by seeing friends, joining

clubs, or volunteering. Some places that are always in need of

volunteers are the local soup kitchen, Isabella County Animal

Shelter (HATS), Karma Cat Café, Isabella County Restoration House.

Registration: LBurr@sagchip.org or 989-775-4307

SEPTEMBER 2026 AndAhwod EvEnTS

Coffee Break | Daily | 2:30 p.m.

Walking Club | Thursdays | 1 p.m.

Euchre | Thursdays | 5:30 p.m.

Elders Lunch

Sept. 2, 16 | 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Lost & Found Bingo

Sept. 4 | 1-3 p.m.

Name that Tune

Sept. 9 | 2:30 p.m.

Elders snowplowing applications

accepted beginning Oct. 1, 2026

Elders Breakfast

Sept. 9, 23 | 9-10 a.m.

Bracelet Making

Sept. 16 | 1:30 p.m.

Grandparents Day Celebration

Sept. 11 | 4-6 p.m.

Bible Study with Julie Pego

Sept. 21 | 6-7 p.m.

Birthday Celebration

Sept. 11 | 2:30 p.m.

Language Bingo

Sept. 23 | 1-3 p.m.

Tai Chi

Sept. 14 | 1 p.m.

Potluck & Birthday Bingo

Sept. 26 | 1-3 p.m.

For more information, please call Andahwod at: 989.775.4300

• Twenty applications accepted. Priority will be

given to elders, 70 years and older.

• Everyone must fill out an application for the

service and have a medically documented

disability if between 50-61 years old.

• $50 seasonal fee.

Applications can be picked up at Andahwod

or found at www.sagchip.org

September 2026 Andahwod CCC & ES Menu

Sunday

Monday

*Menu subject to change*

Tuesday

Sugar free available upon request

Chef ’s Choice

Chicken Stir-fry

Sweet & Sour Chicken

Turkey Club Sandwich

Com Beef Brisket

Beef Stroganoff

Meatball Sub

Chicken Alfredo

Fried Bologna Sandwich

Herb Roasted Chicken

Cheeseburger

Chipped Beef Sandwich

Chicken Bacon

Ranch Sandwich

Stuffed Peppers

Popcorn Shrimp Basket

Wednesday

Reuben Sandwich

~Soft Shell Tacos w/Beans

Chili Dog

Steak

Thursday

Elders Lunch

Beef Stew w/biscuits

Tuna Melt

Elders Breakfast

Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Indian Taco

Elders Lunch

Chili & Fry Bread

Beef & Cheddar Sandwich

Elders Breakfast

Wild Rice Soup

Smothered Pork Chops

Goulash

Enchilada Bake

Lunch: 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Dinner: 4:30 p.m. - 5:30 p.m.

Chicken Pot Pie

Tater Tot Casserole

Sloppy Joes

Open Faced Turkey

Chicken Sandwich

Meat Loaf

Saturday

Pork Chops,

Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

Spaghetti

Chef ’s Choice

Fish n’ Chips

BBQ Chicken

Lasagna

Tuna Casserole

Friday

Chicken Wing Basket

Goulash

Fish n’ Chips

Cheeseburger

Chef ’s Choice

*Warning: Consuming under cooked foods or eggs could lead to a Food Bourne Illness*

*Warning: Please inform cashier/staff of any severe food allergies you may have prior to sitting down. Thank you

Tribal Community

September 2026 | Tribal Observer

13 | Midaaswi-shi-nswi

Generous

hog

donation

provided

for

Andahwod’s

elders’

lunch

Kyla Henry

Leadership Apprentice,

Public Relations

(Left to right) Andahwod’s Sheligh Jackson and Bill Hauck, Brock

and Brock’s dad are photographed after the hog donation.

P H YS I C A L

OT I O N A L

S P I R I T UA L

M E N TA L

Brock, a Shepherd Public

School student, enjoys 4-H as

a hobby, and this year is his

second year raising pigs.

During the Isabella County

Fair last month, Brock auctioned off his pig to Bill

Hauck. The exchange didn’t

end there though… Hauck

donated the pig to Andahwod

for their elders’ lunch!

The Soaring Eagle Food

& Beverage team then made

Hauck, his team, and Brock and those who made

the donation happen are photographed.

delicious pulled pork sandwiches and the food was

enjoyed by all. Both Brock

and Hauck were acknowledged for their generous

donation.

Saginaw Chippewa Health

& Human Services (SHHS)

SEPTEMBER 2026 − Health & Human Services Awareness

September provides many opportunities to promote prevention, wellness, recovery, safety, healthy aging, and support

for our community. SHHS departments are encouraged to incorporate applicable observances into education, outreach,

prevention activities, and community engagement.

September Awareness Observances

• National Recovery Month: Recognizes the strength of

individuals and families in recovery and promotes awareness

of evidence-based treatment, recovery supports, peer

services, and pathways to long-term wellness.

• Suicide Prevention Month: Promotes awareness, prevention,

early intervention, connection to appropriate services, and

compassionate support for individuals and families.

• National Suicide Prevention Week: An opportunity to

strengthen education regarding warning signs, protective

factors, available resources, and culturally responsive

prevention strategies.

• World Suicide Prevention Day – Sept. 10: Encourages

communities to increase awareness and strengthen prevention,

connection, hope, and support.

• National Childhood Obesity Awareness Month: Promotes

healthy nutrition, physical activity, prevention, and familycentered approaches to lifelong wellness.

• Healthy Aging Month: Highlights preventive care, physical

activity, nutrition, social connection, medication safety, fall

prevention, and healthy aging for elders and older adults.

• Food Safety Education Month: Reinforces safe food

handling, preparation, storage, sanitation, and prevention of

foodborne illness.

• Sepsis Awareness Month: Promotes recognition of sepsis

warning signs and the importance of timely medical

evaluation and treatment.

• Prostate Cancer Awareness Month: Encourages education

regarding prostate health, individual risk factors, and

informed discussions with healthcare providers regarding

appropriate screening.

• Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month: Promotes education

regarding symptoms, risk factors, appropriate evaluation,

and access to healthcare.

• National Preparedness Month: Encourages individuals,

families, organizations, and communities to prepare for

emergencies and disasters. This is an excellent opportunity

for SHHS to reinforce emergency preparedness, continuity

of operations, Incident Command System (ICS) readiness,

and departmental emergency procedures.

• Blood Cancer Awareness Month: Raises awareness of

leukemia, lymphoma, myeloma, and other blood cancers and

the importance of appropriate evaluation and treatment.

• Newborn Screening Awareness Month: Highlights the

importance of recommended newborn screening and timely

follow-up for infants and families.

• National Sickle Cell Awareness Month: Promotes education

regarding sickle cell disease, early diagnosis, appropriate

treatment, and support for affected individuals and families.

• National Falls Prevention Awareness Week: Promotes fallrisk assessment, medication review, home and environmental

safety, mobility, balance, and prevention strategies,

particularly for elders.

• World Alzheimer’s Day – Sept. 21: Promotes awareness

of Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias and recognizes

the importance of early identification, caregiver support,

dignity, and culturally responsive services.

• World Heart Day – Sept. 29: Encourages cardiovascular

health through prevention, physical activity, healthy

nutrition, tobacco prevention/cessation, blood pressure

management, and appropriate healthcare.

Suggested SHHS Department Focus

• Behavioral Health / RTC: Recovery Month, suicide

prevention, substance use prevention and treatment, peer

and recovery support, mental wellness, and reducing stigma.

• ACFS: Child and family wellness, prevention, family

strengthening, nutrition, safety, and culturally responsive

support for children and families.

• Andahwod: Healthy aging, Alzheimer’s and dementia

awareness, elder wellness, fall prevention, nutrition, social

connection, and caregiver support.

• Nimkee Memorial Wellness Center: Preventive care,

cardiovascular health, healthy aging, immunizations, sepsis

education, cancer awareness, nutrition, dental wellness, and

fall prevention.

• SHHS Administration / Emergency Preparedness:

National Preparedness Month, ICS readiness, continuity of

operations, emergency communication, staff preparedness,

and organizational safety.

SHHS September Message

September reminds us that health and wellness encompass the whole person—physical, behavioral, emotional,

social, cultural, and spiritual well-being. Through prevention, education, early intervention, quality healthcare, and

culturally responsive services, SHHS remains committed

to strengthening the health and wellbeing of the Saginaw

Chippewa Indian Tribe and the community we serve.

“Strong communities are built through prevention, connection, compassion, culture, and care.”

Saginaw Chippewa Health & Human Services (SHHS)

Serving Our Community • Promoting Wellness • Honoring Tradition

Phone: 989-775-4637 | Email: JBae@sagchip.org

1st place cornhole tournament

Dave Brodie & John Henry

Friday, Sept. 11, 2026

4 - 6 p.m. | Andahwod

(2910 S Leaton Rd, Mt. Pleasant, MI 48858)

 Food served: 4-5 p.m.

Menu: Nachos, sloppy joes, hot dogs,

potato salad, pasta salad, bags of

chips, large pretzels, cupcakes, ice

cream cups, and drinks.

 Bingo: 5-6 p.m.

 Cake walk and prizes for kids!

Contact: DePelcher@sagchip.org or 989-775-4339

E l d e r s M i n o r A s s i s ta n c e

P r o g r a m ( EMAP )

This grant assistance is available for minor home and

vehicle repairs under program guidelines.

SCIT elders over 60 years of age may be eligible.

Elders may stop by Andahwod front to pick up

an application, call, or email for more information.

Applications and guidelines are available in the

Andahwod front lobby or you may call to have one

email or sent to your home address.

For any questions, please contact Lucinda Burr at

989-775-4307 or Lburr@sagchip.org

Event Planner

Tribal Observer | September 2026

Midaaswi-shi-niiwin | 14

S e p t e m b e r 2 0 2 6 | Tribal Community Event Planner

Native Farmers Market

SCIT Member Informational Seminar

ACFS Orange Shirt Fundraiser

• Farmers Market Pavilion

(Corner of Broadway and Leaton roads)

• SAMAChippeway@sagchip.org or 989-775-4629

• Saganing Tribal Center

(5447 Sturman Rd., Standish, MI 48658)

• SCompau@sagchip.org or 989-775-5820

• Topics: Mno-Shkiziwin, burial packets, and

durable power of attorney designation

• ACFS Lobby (2585 S. Leaton Rd.)

• NKahgegab@Sagchip.org or 989-775-4901

• Shirts: $25 *Choice of black or orange shirt

• Large decal: $9, small decal: $5

Sept. 1 | 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Toddler Time

Sept. 1 | 1-3 p.m.

• Wii Maajiikwad/Recreation (2875 Gikendasso Way)

• Recreation@sagchip.org

• Open to infants and toddlers

Maadizekwe Wiijii “s/he starts cooking”

Sept. 2 | 5:30-8 p.m.

• Behavioral Health (2800 S. Shepherd Rd.)

• Registration: TEscobar@sagchip.org

• Open to first 20 who register

• Learn how to make zucchini brownies

Labor Day Weekend Picnic

Sept. 4 | 4-8 p.m., dinner served at 6 p.m.

• The Hill Campground (7525 E. Tomah Rd.)

• Recreation@sagchip.org

• Food, games and entertainment

SCIT Human Resources Benefits Fair

Sept. 9 | 7 a.m. - 7 p.m.

Sept. 10 | 7 a.m. - 12 p.m.

• SECR Entertainment Hall (6800 Soaring Eagle Blvd.)

• 989-775-5770

• Open to all team members

(TOPS/SECR/SELC/MIGIZI)

Sexual Assault Survivor Support Group

Sept. 15 | 5:30-6:30 p.m.

• Behavioral Health Lodge (2800 S. Shepherd Rd.)

• SLloyd@sagchip.org or 989-775-4806

Sept. 17 | 11 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Monarch Butter fly Day Celebration

Sept. 18 | 4-6 p.m.

Sept. 21-25 | 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Manoomin Wild Rice Camp Harvest

Sept. 21 | 7 a.m. - 7 p.m.

• Tawas Lake (Tawas, Mich.)

• Registration: KHart@sagchip.edu or 989-317-4827

• Departing SCTC at 7 a.m. (5805 Pickard Rd.)

• Limited to first 20 people to sign up

• Transportation for 12 people (first come, first serve).

• If driving yourself, you may meet at SCTC to follow

• Ziibiwing Center (6650 E. Broadway)

• WJohnson@sagchip.org or 989.775.4750

• Door prizes, cookie decoration, face painting and

children’s educational and craft activities

Who’s Your Caddy Golf Tournament

Sept. 18 | 10 a.m., registration opens at 9 a.m.

• Pohlcat Golf Course (6595 E. Airport Rd.)

• Registration: Recreation@sagchip.org or 989.775.4522

• Registration deadline: Sept. 9 by 5 p.m.

•• Cost: $110 per player, $440 per team

• Teams must have TWO of the following:

Any tribal member descendant of any recognized

tribe or a SECR/Migizi/SELC/Tribal Ops employee

Manoomin Wild Rice Camp

Sept. 25, 26 | 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

• 7th Generation (7957 E. Remus Rd.)

• KHart@sagchip.edu or 989-317-4827

• Public welcome

MIIBS Tribal Youth Powwow

Sept. 25 | 1-4 p.m.

Community Cultural Teaching

at ezhibiigaadek asin

• Mt. Pleasant Indian Industrial Boarding School

(1400 W. Pickard)

• GColwell@sagchip.org or 989-775-4751

• Sanilac Petroglyphs (near Cass City, Mich.)

• GColwell@sagchip.org or 989-775-4751

Youth GONA

(Gathering of Native Americans)

Sept. 19 | 10:30 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Youth Day Trip to Eagle Village

Sept. 19 | Drop off at 9 a.m., pickup at 6 p.m.

• Drop off and pickup at Behavioral Health

• Eagle Village Inc. (175th Ave., Hersey, Mich.)

• MSteelecyphert@sagchip.org or 989.775.4870

• Open to the first 15 youth that register

Sept. 25 | 5:30-8:30 p.m.

Sept. 26 | 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Sept. 25 | 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.

• 7th Generation (7957 E. Remus Rd.)

• TEscobar@sagchip.org or 989-775-4870

• Registration required: Open to the first 50 who register

• Open to Tribal community members ages 11 and older

S e p t e m b e r 2 0 2 6 | Tribal Community Calendar

1 Library Card Sign Up

Month Kickoff

SECR Payroll

SCIT Per Capita

SCIT Payroll

Curbside Recycling

10 a.m. - 6 p.m. | Tribal Library

Elders Lunch

Recovery on the Rez

11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. | Andahwod

2-3 p.m. | Zoom

Eagle Feather Teachings

AOVWS Meeting

Fireside on the Rez

Sacred Fire Lunch

6-7:30 p.m. | B. Health

12-1 p.m. | 7th Gen

Community Sewing Nights

5-8 p.m. | 7th Gen

1:30-2:30 p.m. | B. Health

6 p.m. | Ziibiwing

Fireside on the Rez

11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. | B. Health

Peer 360 at BH Lodge

6-7 p.m. | B. Health

Drums Out

7:30-9:30 p.m. | 7th Gen

9-10 a.m. | Andahwod

Recovery on the Rez

1-2 p.m. | B. Health

9 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. | Ziibiwing

Drums Out

Eagle Feather Teachings

7:30-9:30 p.m. | 7th Gen

Tribal Observer

DEADLINE

Grandparents Day

2-3 p.m. | Zoom

STEAMAG Meeting

Elders Breakfast

10-11 a.m. | Saganing

Recovery Group

12-1 p.m. | SCTC LGO Room

Saganing Breakfast

T r i b a l O p s c lo s e d

Labor Day

Peer 360 at BH Lodge

6-7 p.m. | B. Health

Elders Lunch

2-3 p.m. | Zoom

11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. | Andahwod

Eagle Feather Teachings

Recovery Group

Community Sewing Nights

5-8 p.m. | 7th Gen

Elders Breakfast

Drums Out

Eagle Feather Teachings

12-1 p.m. | SCTC LGO Room

Recovery Group

1-2 p.m. | B. Health

Fireside on the Rez

6-7:30 p.m. | B. Health

Fireside on the Rez

11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. | B. Health

9-10 a.m. | Andahwod

1:30-2:30 p.m. | B. Health

Recovery on the Rez

2-3 p.m. | Zoom

Drums Out

7:30-9:30 p.m. | 7th Gen

Orange

S h i r t Day

Eagle Feather Teachings

1:30-2:30 p.m. | B. Health

Saganing Fall Feast

Fireside on the Rez

Community Sewing Nights

T r i b a l O p s c lo s e d

Michigan Indian Day

Peer 360 at BH Lodge

11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. | B. Health

1-2 p.m. | Saganing

5-8 p.m. | 7th Gen

6-7 p.m. | B. Health

9 a.m. - 5 p.m. | Saganing

Peer 360 at BH Lodge

Recovery on the Rez

7:30-9:30 p.m. | 7th Gen

STEAMAG Meeting

12-1 p.m. | 7th Gen

1:30-2:30 p.m. | B. Health

2-3 p.m. | Zoom

1-2 p.m. | B. Health

CMDHD Vaccine Clinic

Fireside on the Rez

11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. | B. Health

6-7 p.m. | B. Health

8 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. | Saganing

Sacred Fire Lunch

1-2 p.m. | B. Health

Fireside on the Rez

6-7:30 p.m. | B. Health

Saganing Blood Drive

5-8 p.m. | 7th Gen

Trading Card Game Night

5:30-9 p.m. | 7th Gen

Community Sewing Nights

1:30-2:30 p.m. | B. Health

Recovery on the Rez

Recovery Group

Fireside on the Rez

Spinning Wheels

R ol l e r R i n k F u n d r a i s e r

Sept. 26 | 2-4:30 p.m. & 5:30-8 p.m.

Spinning Wheels Roller Rink (1241 N. Mission Rd.)

All proceeds will benefit the Ziibiwing Center

Come skate, have fun and support a great cause!

Contact: WJohnson@sagchip.org or 989.775.4750

6-7:30 p.m. | B. Health

Classifieds

September 2026 | Tribal Observer

15 | Midaaswi-shi-naanan

Observer Classifieds: To place your ad, call the Tribal Observer at 989-775-4096, email observer@sagchip.org, call

to make an appointment in the Observer offices in the Black Elk Building or mail to Tribal Observer, Attn.: Classified,

7500 Soaring Eagle Blvd., Mt. Pleasant, MI 48858. Please have all submissions and payment in by deadline. Classified

rates are $10 for 15 words or less and 75 cents per additional word. Any thumbnail image costs an additional $15.

Apply to job postings online at www.sagchip.org. * Job postings are subject to change daily.

100 Employment

Tribal Operations

ACFS Supervisor

Open to the public. Bachelor’s degree in social work, human services,

or related field. Four years of social

services (working with children and

families) experience. One year of experience in child welfare. One year of

experience in a supervisory capacity.

Prosecutor

Open to the public. Juris doctor from

an ABA accredited law school. Minimum of three years experience as

a practicing attorney. Minimum of

one year experience as a prosecuting attorney. Member of a State Bar

Association and in good standing.

Community Development

Director

Open to the public. Bachelor’s degree in urban planning, public administration, or a related field. Five

years of progressively responsible

experience in public works administration or community development and planning. Three years in

a managerial/supervisory capacity.

RTC Support Technician

Open to the public. Must be

at least 18 years of age. High

school diploma or GED. Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite.

Pharmacy Technician

Open to the public. High school diploma or GED. Pharmacy technician license. One year experience

working in a pharmacy desired.

Dental Hygienist

Open to the public. Registered dental hygienist. Two years working experience in dental hygiene desired.

Interim Clinical Therapist

Open to the public. Licensed master’s degree in counseling, social

work, human services or related field.

Clerical Pool

Open to SCIT Members only. Must

be at least 18 years of age and possess

a high school diploma or equivalent.

General Labor Pool

Open to Tribal Members and

community

members.

Must

be at least 18 years of age.

Soaring Eagle

Assistant Prosecutor PT

Open to the public. Juris Doctor

from an ABA accredited law school.

Member in good standing with

the State Bar of Michigan.

Prevention Specialist

Open to the public. Associate degree

in human services or related field.

Desired qualifications: Bachelor`s

degree in counseling, social work,

human services, or related field.

Associate General Counsel

Open to the public. Juris Doctor from

an ABA accredited law school. Experience as a practicing attorney. Familiarity with federal Indian law desired.

Certified Nursing Assistant

Open to the public. High school diploma or GED. State of Michigan

Certified Nursing Assistant. One

year nursing experience desired.

Waste Water Operator II

Open to the public. High school diploma or GED. Must have three years’ experience in wastewater/water field or

directly related experience in plumbing or mechanical plant operations.

Line Cook

Open to the public. Must be at

least 18 years of age. Six months

of restaurant cooking experience with increasing levels of

responsibility, or six months of

SECR internal culinary training.

Police Officer

Open to the public. Must be a

U.S. citizen and at least 21 years

of age. Must be able to pass departmental

fitness

evaluation.

Culinary Supervisor

Open to the public. High school diploma or GED. Three years of restaurant

or banquet cooking experience with

increasing levels of responsibility.

Tribal Code

Compliance Officer

Open to the public. Associate degree in human services or related

field. Five years’ relevant experience

including building construction, inspection and ordinance enforcement.

Entertainment Chauffeur

Open to the public. Must be at least

18 years of age. Must have a current and valid chauffer’s license.

Waste Water Operator III

Open to the public. High school diploma or GED. Must have five years experience in wastewater/water field or

directly related experience in plumbing or mechanical plant operations.

Fresh Water Operator II

Open to the public. High school diploma or GED. Must have three years of

water operator or related experience.

Fresh Water Operator III

Open to the public. High school diploma or GED. Must have five years of

water operator or related experience.

Community Engineer

Open to the public. Bachelor’s degree in civil engineering, public

administration, or related field;

and at least three years of progressively responsible experience

in public works administration

and/or

municipal

engineering.

Internship

Unpaid internship within Tribal

Operations or other tribal enterprises. Open to the public. Must

be an enrolled student at a college

or university, and provide SCIT

with documentation of the university’s requirements/scope of

work for the required internship.

Community Data, Planning &

Special Projects Manager

Open to the public. Bachelor`s

degree in social science, social

work, public policy, community planning or related field. One

year in a supervisory capacity.

100 Employment

105 Lost and Found

110 For Rent

115 For Sale

120 Announcements

five years experience in a building

maintenance position with a high

degree of equipment repair responsibilities or two years of repair experience in a laundry environment.

Bartender FT

the

public.

Must

least 18 years of age.

Open

be at

Bartender PT

the

public.

Must

least 18 years of age.

Surveillance Supervisor

Open to the public. Must be at least

18 years of age. Three years of experience in casino surveillance.

Open

be at

F&B Cashier FT

the

public.

Must

least 18 years of age.

Cage Cashier PT

Open

the

public.

Must

be at least 18 years of age.

Open

be at

F&B Cashier PT

the

public.

Must

least 18 years of age.

Saganing

Players Club Representative PT

Open

the

public.

Must

be at least 18 years of age.

Slot Attendant

the

public.

Must

least 18 years of age.

Open

be at

F&B Attendant FT

Open

the

public.

Must

be at least 18 years of age.

F&B Cashier PT

the

public.

Must

least 18 years of age.

Pastry Sous Chef

Open to the public. High school diploma or GED. Three years kitchen experience in a quality operation

specializing in food production.

One year in a supervisory capacity.

Guest Relations Rep PT

Open

the

public.

High

school

diploma

GED.

Maintenance Worker

Open to the public. Must be at

least 18 years of age. One year

custodial and maintenance experience. Experience with minor plumbing and carpentry.

Usher - Summer Concerts

Seasonal

position.

Must

be at least 18 years of age.

F&B Custodial Worker PT

Open

the

public.

Must

be at least 18 years of age.

Sous Chef

Open to the public. High school diploma or GED. Three years kitchen experience in a quality operation

specializing in food production.

One year in a supervisory capacity.

Laundry Mechanic Technician

Open to the public. High school diploma or GED. Must have at least

Summons and Compl aint Notices

Beverage Waitstaff PT

Open

the

public.

Must

be at least 18 years of age.

Open

be at

Kitchen Equipment Tech

Open

the

public. Three

years of experience in commercial food equipment repair.

Open

be at

125 Miigwetch

130 Services

135 Events

140 Giveaways

145 Miscellaneous

F&B Attendant PT

Open

the

public.

Must

be at least 18 years of age.

Line Cook

Open to the public. Six months

of restaurant cooking experience.

Beverage Waitstaff FT

Open

the

public.

Must

be at least 18 years of age.

F&B Custodial Worker

Open

the

public.

Must

be at least 18 years of age.

Count Team Assistant

Open

the

public.

Must

be at least 18 years of age.

Maintenance Worker

Open

the

public.

Must

be at least 18 years of age.

Inventory Control

Driver Warehouser

Open to the public. Must obtain

fork lift certification within 90

days of hire/transfer. Must have

a valid Michigan Chauffeurs License. One year experience in

driving vehicles and rigs that require a CDL license. Experience

operating warehouse equipment.

Human ResouRces:

Training/Cer tification Oppor tunities

Associate Degree Dental Hygiene Program

The Dental Hygiene degree program at Ferris State is the

largest in the State of Michigan and one of the largest

Dental Hygiene AAS degree programs in the nation.

Criminal Justice Law Enforcement

The Delta College Criminal Justice program is designed to

give you specialized knowledge of the criminal justice field

combined with a broad general educational.

Water and Wastewater Treatment Technology

Earn an associate degree in water and wastewater

treatment technology. When you’re done, you’ll be

able to take licensing exams.

Hotel Management

You will gain a solid understanding of the growing

hospitality business — from historical context to the

current trends.

Clinical Dental Assistant

This course will provide you with the essential skills and

knowledge needed to become a dental assistant, including

every aspect of professional dental assistance.

Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA)

You will learn the professional traits and responsibilities to

become a vital part of the healthcare team in a medical office,

clinic, hospital, and other healthcare settings.

Medical Billing & Coding Certification

Train for an in-demand healthcare career

in medical billing and coding and prepare

for industry certification.

Pharmacy Technician

N O T I C E T O C R E D I T O R S I N T H E M AT T E R O F T H E

E S TAT E O f E R I C J O H N A N D E R S O N :

The Saginaw Chippewa Tribal Court, 6954 E. Broadway

Rd., Mt. Pleasant, MI 48858, Phone: (989) 775-4800. In

the Matter of the Estate of Eric John Anderson. Date of

Birth: July 12, 1963. Notice to creditors: The decedent,

Eric John Anderson, who resided at 3897 W. Herbison

Rd., Dewitt, MI 48820, died October 24, 2024. Creditors

of the decedent are notified that all claims against the

estate will be forever barred unless presented to Sheryl

Anderson, personal representative, or to both the

Probate Court at 6954 E. Broadway Rd., Mt. Pleasant,

MI 48858 and the personal representative within four

months after the date of publication of this notice.

Personal Representative: Sheryl Anderson of 4075 Holt

Rd. Lot #177, Holt, MI 48842. Phone: 517-819-2872.

This online certification course will prepare aspiring

pharmacy technicians to effectively assist the pharmacist

in the packing and distribution of medication.

For more information, please contact:

Kamie Mandoka

989-775-5247 | KMandoka@sagchip.org

Olivia Manitowabi-Mccullough

989-775-4505 | OManitowabi@sagchip.org

Tribal Community

Tribal Observer | September 2026

Midaaswi-shi-ngodwaaswi | 16

RezBall 2026 three-on-three basketball tournament held Aug. 17-18

Mat thew Wright

Staff Writer

The Recreation Department

hosted RezBall 2026, a threeon-three basketball tournament, on Aug.17-18.

The annual event, which

was expanded to two days this

year, was held inside the Wii

Maajiikwad/Recreation Center.

Teams from four different

divisions vied for the first-place

trophies. Second-place finishers were also awarded medals.

Players received a free

lunch and event T-shirt.

The results for the tournament are below.

RezBall 2026 results

Men’s division:

• First place: Henry Wemigwans, Daniel Fuller,

Kyle Shomin (Old Skool)

• Second place: Mason Wojtusik, Monti, Jaleil Holt,

Isaiah Rodriguez (Petey Pablos)

• Third place: Kyle Ready, Ahsiniis Smith,

Casey Smith, Quon (Central Michigan Remodeling)

High school division:

• First place: Hunter, Taz, Gabe, Nokota (Obama Elite)

• Second place: Aiden Raphael, Dre Ramirez,

Zeke (FBGM)

• Third place: Braylon Shaw, Alex Evans, Grayson Duke,

Camden Warner (Neegy)

Middle school boys division:

• First place: Tyrell Trepanier, Brayden Chivis,

Kasin Simmons, Jalen Armstrong (Three Piece)

• Second place: Mayson Jackson, Alijah Chivis,

Shad Traver, Douglas Smith (Rez Runners)

• Third place: Julius Velasquez-Perez, Miguel

Chippeway, Elijah Quigno, Jace Sydmunds (iyooo)

Middle school girls division:

• First place: Bonnie Redstar, Brooklyn Redstar,

Nellie Fowler, Ren Skinner (All-Stars)

• Second place: Velicia, Mno Pego, Faye Wemigwans,

Ana Pelcher-Smith (Majestic Goats)

6th and under division:

• First place: Drayzen Cotton, Mike, Shiloe Smith

(Drayzens Soldiers)

• Second place: Garner Shomin, Harley Jackson,

Moises Shomin, Reggie Smith (Dream Team)

• Third place: Colby Plumber Jr., Kyle Ready Jr.,

Naagaani Ready, Colton Plumber (D1)

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