Rapsberry picking Moon • Mskominike Giizis
Tribal code
Ask Donna
What actually matters in this document.
Text
Win Awenen
Nisitotung
August 19, 2026
Rapsberry picking Moon • Mskominike Giizis
Vol. 47 • No. 8
Bahweting Bidajimowin • Official newspaper of the Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians
Sault Tribe Golf Scholarship Classic raises more
than $114,000 for the Tribal Scholarship Fund
BY JESSICA DUMBACK
SAULT STE. MARIE
— Golfers from Michigan,
Minnesota, New York, and
Wisconsin came together July 24
for the 25th Annual Sault Tribe
Golf Scholarship Classic, raising
more than $114,000 to support
educational opportunities for
Sault Tribe members.
“Our Tribal Scholarship Fund
is one of the most meaningful
investments we can make in our
future. Every scholarship awarded
represents an opportunity for one
of our members to pursue their
educational goals, strengthen their
skills, and bring that knowledge
back to benefit our tribal community. The continued success of
the Golf Scholarship Classic is
a testament to the generosity of
our sponsors, golfers, volunteers,
and supporters who share our
commitment to creating opportunities for future generations,” said
Chairman Austin Lowes.
Hosted by the Sault Ste. Marie
Tribe of Chippewa Indians and
Kewadin Casinos, the annual event benefits the Tribal
Scholarship Endowment Fund,
which provides scholarships to
tribal members pursuing higher
education. The fund distributes
5% of its balance annually, and
this year 70 scholarships will be
awarded. Since its inception, the
fund has helped provide more
than 500 scholarships to tribal
Winners of the 25th Annual Sault Tribe Golf Scholarship Classic Men’s
Division were from The France Firm: Cory Metro, Johnny McDonald,
Chuck France, and Gary Christensen (L-R).
Division, U.P. Engineers &
members pursuing their educaArchitects claimed first place
tional goals.
with a score of 59, followed by
The two-day event began
CompEdge with a 67 and Helen
Thursday evening with a recepNewberry Joy Hospital with a
tion at Kewadin Casinos &
Convention Center, sponsored by 68. In the Men’s Division, The
France Firm finished first with a
PNC Bank, where participants
score of 58, followed by Hunt’s
registered for the tournament,
Maintenance and Services with
viewed silent auction items, and
a 59. Rodenroth Motors also
enjoyed complimentary hors
finished with a score of 59 and
d’oeuvres.
earned third place following a
The tournament officially
scorecard playoff.
teed off Friday morning with
Throughout the day, golfers
a shotgun start. In the Mixed
Winners of the 25th Annual Sault Tribe Golf Scholarship Classic Mixed
Division were from the U.P. Engineers & Architects: Svetlana Belleau,
Jeremy Gagnon, Marc Disano, and Heidi Kelly (L-R).
Sault Tribe Golf Scholarship
competed for hole-in-one prizClassic continues to be a signaes, including cash awards up
ture event that brings together
to $25,000 and a chance to win
one of two vehicles sponsored
golfers, sponsors and community
by Rodenroth Motors and Soo
partners in support of tribal eduMotors. Participants also enjoyed cation. The Sault Tribe extends
a putting contest sponsored by
its sincere appreciation to all
Meritain, lunch provided by The
who contributed to the success of
Huntington National Bank, bevthis year’s event.
erages sponsored by Reyes CocaThe 2026 Golf Scholarship
Cola Bottling and RSM US, and
Classic was coordinated by Bill
an awards dinner sponsored by
Connolly, Jessica Dumback, Jeff
Gordon Food Service.
Holt, Sheila Kibble, Jennifer
Celebrating its 25th year, the
Markey, and Ashley Samuelson.
Under the 2% agreement
between the Sault Ste. Marie
Tribe of Chippewa Indians and
the state of Michigan for gaming revenue sharing, the tribe is
required to disburse 2% of its slot
revenue to local units of government.
In the latest round of funding,
the Alger County Food Pantry
(ACFP), located in Munising,
was awarded $8,204.65.
“It’s really a godsend,” said
Volunteer Schedule Manager
Bonnie Syers. “This is a critical
funding source and it really helps
maintain this program including the Christmas Casino Food
Drive, The Salvation Army
in Marquette, the Munising
Fire Department Community
Food Drive, donations from
Food pantry awarded 2% monies for fresh produce, fruit
Win Awenen Nisitotung
531 Ashmun St.
Sault Ste. Marie, MI 49783
PRSRT STD
U.S. Postage
PAID
Permit No. 30
Gaylord, MI
49735
www.saulttribe.com
with our budget.”
In making the request for
funding, ACFP representatives
noted, “Some of our balance will
be used to purchase fresh produce
and fruit. In an area hard hit with
snow and cold, it’s important for
families to consume healthy fruit
and vegetables.”
Volunteers purchase fresh produce from local stores during the
winter months and rely on Alger
County farmers to meet their
needs when their crops are in season.
In 2025, according to an ACFP
fact sheet, there were 1,181
requests for food assistance averaging just under 100 per month.
They estimate that approximately
239 individuals benefit from the
program each month including
2,046 adults and 810 children for
the year.
“Sault Tribe 2% funding is our
main sustainable funding source,”
ACFP observed. “Without 2%
funding, we would still serve
those in need, but the amount of
food needed would not be available.”
The ACFP serves all residents in Alger County and
relies on a numerous partners to
Munising Hospital and a huge
$15,000 donation from the Christ
Lutheran Church.
“Together we are doing our
best to feed those in need,” wrote
Supply Manager Kim Swanberg.
Photo by Scott Brand
Carol Eglsaer and Bonnie Sayers (L-R) volunteer at the Alger
Community Food Pantry in Munising.
Page 2
Feature
August 19, 2026 • Win Awenen Nisitotung
SAULT TRIBE
HEALTH DIVISION
PRESENTS
FALL HEALTH FAIRS
Flu and Covid Vaccines
Health Information
Tribal & Community Booths
Health Screenings
Giveaways
Grand Prize Drawing
Lunch 11:30-1:00
ALL EVENTS HELD FROM 10-2
10/1/26- ST. IGNACE KEWADIN CASINO TENT
10/6/26 -SAULT KEWADIN CASINO THEATER
10/8/26 - DETOUR EUP FINE ARTS HALL
10/9/26 - HESSEL TRIBAL YOUTH & FITNESS CENTER
Flu & COVID vaccines available to Sault Tribe members, other federally
recognized tribes, non-native spouses, and Sault Tribe employees.
Q U E S T I O N S ~ C A L L C O M M U N I T Y H E A LT H
906-632-5210
HEALTH FAIR IS OPEN TO THE PUBLIC
News
August 19, 2026 • Win Awenen Nisitotung
Page 3
Committee vacancies — Sault Tribe volunteers needed!
The following Sault Tribe
Committees have vacant seats or
upcoming vacancies. Sault Tribe
members interested in filling these
vacancies should submit one letter of intent and three letters of
recommendation (forms available
online or contact Lona) from
other members to Lona Stewart
at lstewart2@saulttribe.net, 523
Ashmun Street, Sault Ste. Marie,
MI 49783, or call 906-635-6050
with any questions.
Anishinaabe Cultural
Tribal gas,
cigarette
discount
locations
The following gas stations are
offering discounts to Sault Tribe
members.
Tribal owned gas stations offering gas and cigarette discounts:
• MidJim Convenience Store,
2205 Shunk Road, Sault Ste.
Marie, MI 49783
• MidJim Convenience Store,
3045 Mackinac Trail, St. Ignace,
MI 49781
• White Pine Lodge and
Convenience Store, 7889 E. W.
M-28, Christmas, MI 49862
Tribal owned gas stations offering gas discount only:
• University BP, 301 W. Fair
Ave., Marquette, MI 49855
Not tribal owned stations offering gas discounts only:
• Kinross BP, 4440 Tone Road,
Kincheloe, MI 49788
• Cedar Pantry, 159 W. M-134,
Cedarville, MI 49719
• Sunoco, 13975 M-28,
Newberry, MI 49868
• Manistique Oil Company, 216
Deer Street, Manistique, MI 49854
• Carnes Eco Fuels, 2300
Ludington St., Escanaba, MI 49837
Food Distribution
online application
Below is the link to submit
an application for the Sault Ste
Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians
Food Distribution Program:
https://saulttribe.ifdp.io/kiosk/
online-application
Each page provides clear
instructions. Ensure that any page
featuring the ‘Save’ button is
saved accordingly. Pay attention
to the drop-down menus, they
can help make navigating the
application easier. You can download your driver’s license, state
ID, utilities, and other important
paperwork through this portal.
Contact the Food Distribution
Program at (906) 635-6076 or
(888) 448-8732.
Win Awenen
Nisitotung
The official newspaper of the
Sault Ste. Marie Tribe
of Chippewa Indians.
August 19, 2026
Raspberry-Picking Moon
Mskominike Giizis
Jennifer Dale-Burton.........Editor
Sherrie Lucas................Secretary
Brenda Austin...........Staff Writer
Scott Brand...............Staff Writer
Win Awenen Nisitotung welcomes
Committee – Two vacancies –
male – one 4-year term, one term
expires October 2028
Child Welfare Committee –
Two vacancies – one 4-year term,
one term expires May 2029
Conservation Committee –
Non-Commercial Fisher – Two
vacancies (4-year terms)
Education Committee – One
vacancy (4-year term)
Elder Advisory Committee
Unit I – Sault – One regular
vacancy (4-year term); two alternate vacancies (4-year term)
Unit II – Newberry – One
regular vacancy, term expires
July 2029; one alternate vacancy
(4-year term)
Unit III – St. Ignace – One
regular vacancy – term expires
October 2029; two alternate
vacancies (4-year terms)
Unit IV – Manistique – One
regular vacancy (4-year term)
Unit V – Marquette – One
alternate vacancy (4-year term)
Elder Subcommittees
Unit I – Sault – Two regular
vacancies – one term expires
September 2029, one 4-year term
Unit II – Hessel – One alternate vacancy (4-year term)
Unit II – Naubinway – Two
regular vacancies – one term
expires May 2027, one 4-year
term; one alternate vacancy
(4-year term)
Unit II – Newberry – Two regular vacancies, one term expires
March 2028, one 4-year term; one
Alternate vacancy, term expires
August 2028
Unit III – St. Ignace – One
alternate vacancy – term expires
March 2028
Unit IV – Escanaba – Four
regular vacancies (4-year terms);
one alternate vacancy (4-year
term)
Unit IV – Manistique – One
regular vacancy (4-year term)
Unit V – Munising – One alternate vacancy (4-year term)
Unit V – Marquette – Two regular vacancies (4-year terms); one
alternate vacancy (4-year term)
Food Sovereignty Committee
– Three vacancies (4-year terms)
Health Board – Two vacancies – one term expires May 2027,
one term expires September 2027
Sault Tribe Election
Commission – Four vacancies,
3 terms expiring November 2030
and one term expiring November
2028 (please indicate which
length of term you are seeking).
Membership liaisons work to
assist with membership issues
and concerns. The liaisons will
also respond to and follow up on
membership issues to ensure they
are resolved.
Sault Tribe members are
encouraged to contact liaisons
when they need help with tribal
issues by emailing membersconcerns@saulttribe.net or individually at the contacts below. Please
note that although the liaisons are
located at sites across the sev-
en-county service area, they serve
all tribal members.
Michelle Moore
Available for in-person meetings at Sault Tribe
Administration.
Phone: (906) 635-6050 Ext.
26359
Cell: (906) 259-3862
mmoore@saulttribe.net
Clarence Hudak
Lambert Center, St. Ignace,
(906) 643-2124
chudak@saulttribe.net
Mary Jenerou
Manistique Tribal Center,
(906) 341-8469
Munising Tribal Center, (906)
450-7011
mjenerou@saulttribe.net
Membership liaisons work to assist membership
Membership
liaisons answer
your questions
Sa u l t T r i b e Me m b e r Ne w s p a p e r Su b s c r i p t i o n F o r m
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60 are asked to complete the form below and send it to: Win Awenen Nisitotung, 531 Ashmun St., Sault Ste. Marie MI 49783, or email it to slucas@saulttribe.net. Those 60 and over
do not have to fill out this form. Those who prefer to get their newspaper online do not
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Win Awenen Nisitotung is funded by the Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of
Chippewa Indians and is published
12 times a year. Its mission is to
inform tribal members and the public about the activities of the tribal
government, membership programs
and services and cultural, social and
spiritual activities of Sault Tribe
members.
Win Awenen Nisitotung, in
Anishinaabemowin, means, “One
who understands,” and is pronounced “Win Oh-weh-nin Nis-toetuhng.”
See our full, online edition at
www.saulttribe.com.
Subscriptions: The regular
rate is $18 per year, $11 for senior
citizens and $30 to Canada. Please
call for other foreign countries.
Subscribe by sending your name and
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Win Awenen Nisitotung
Attn: Communications Dept.
531 Ashmun St.,
Sault Ste. Marie, MI 49783
Telephone: (906) 632-6398
Fax: (906) 632-6556
E-mail: slucas@saulttribe.net or
jdale-burton@saulttribe.net.
Q: I heard the tribe might
be starting hunters’ safety
classes. If so, when would they
begin?
A: The Natural Resource
Division’s Wildlife Program is
currently working with Sault
Tribe Law Enforcement to establish a hunters’ safety program
for 2026. Plans are to hopefully
offer two courses in August,
with the goal of expanding the
program next year. NRD staff
have been coordinating with
the Native American Fish and
Wildlife Society’s Hunt Safe
Program to certify instructors for
the program. An announcement
will be made when dates and
times are established.
Q: Will the tribe help me
with setting up a Power of
Attorney and plan for my
estate? I’m not wealthy but I
want to be sure my property
does not end up in probate.
A: The Sault Tribe does not
have any programs that assist
with estate planning for the
members. However, there is a
source called Michigan Indian
Legal Services out of Traverse
City that can help members do
estate planning if you meet a
certain income level. Services
can be at no charge for those
who are income eligible. You
can visit their website at www.
mils3.org to explore what
resources are available.
Members can call (231) 9470122 to conduct an intake to find
out if they qualify.
WAN ONLINE
Tribal members and subscriber’s receiving the print edition
of the tribe’s newspaper, Win
Awenen Nisitotung, can switch
to digital to receive the “early”
digital edition. Read your paper
at least six days early!
Write to slucas@saulttribe.net
to switch or get details.
Elders
Page 4
August 19, 2026 • Win Awenen Nisitotung
Video series preserves Sault Tribe elders’ stories
By Brenda Austin
A video series produced by
the Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of
Chippewa Indians is preserving
the memories, teachings and personal histories of tribal elders for
future generations.
“Nebwaakaajig: An Elder
Interview Series,” was created
by Joseph Street, director of
video production for the tribe’s
Communications Department.
Street developed the project after
discovering elder interviews
recorded on VHS tapes and
other early media stored in the
Communications office’s media
library.
“When I first started in this
position, I was interested in the
kinds of projects that were done
for the tribe in the past,” Street
said.
The older recordings inspired him
to revive the practice by interviewing current tribal elders will-
Beginning Aug. 1, 2026, eligible tribal members can enroll
online to receive their 2026 elder
dividend. The online portal will be
available Aug. 1 through Oct. 1,
2026.
If you will be 60 years of age
or older by Dec. 31, 2026, you are
eligible to enroll.
To complete your online form:
1. V isit www.saulttribe.com.
2. Click on the “Elder Form”
link.
3. Complete the online form
and select “Submit.”
4. Once your form has been
successfully submitted, you will
receive a confirmation/ reference
number. Please keep this number
for your records.
Once you have received your
confirmation number, your form
is complete, and you will be
registered to receive your elder
dividend check in January 2027. If
you complete the online form, you
will not receive a paper form in
the mail.
The online portal will only
be available Aug. 1 through Oct.
1, 2026. If you do not complete
online during that time, a paper
form will be mailed to you. Y ou
will then need to complete and
return the paper form by mail.
Important Reminder: If you
move after submitting your elder
form but before your check is
mailed in January 2027, please
contact the Enrollment Department
to update your mailing address.
Keeping your address current will
help ensure your elder dividend
check is delivered without delay.
If you have questions or need
assistance with the online portal,
please contact the Enrollment
Department at (906) 632-8 552 or
email Stacey Synett at ssynett@
saulttribe.net.
Elders! Enroll online for
your 2026 check
ing to share their stories. As he
developed the concept, Street said
he expanded the interviews into a
documentary series that combines
elders’ personal recollections with
relevant historical context.
The series is intended to preserve each elder’s perspective
while passing their experiences
and teachings to younger generations.
“It’s a way to create and leave
each of our elders with a legacy
that will provide knowledge and
a worldview for generations to
come,” Street said.
Each episode begins with the
elder introducing themselves and
sharing information they would
like viewers to know, such as
their Native name and when and
where they were born.
Street then invites participants to discuss their families,
including their siblings, parents
and grandparents. Those conversations help document ancestral
lineages and connections within
the tribal community.
The interviews also explore
the elders’ memories of growing
up, attending school, working and
building relationships.
Participants may talk about
Native teachings passed down to
them, historical events they witnessed and the political conditions
that shaped the tribe during their
lifetimes.
Street allows elders to speak
for as long as they wish and adds
historical information when it can
help viewers understand the events
or subjects being discussed.
At the end of each interview,
Street asks a set of five questions.
The elder is then invited
See “Elders,” Page 8
HAPPY BIRTHDAY — The Unit I Sault Elders celebrated their August birthdays at the Unit I meeting this
month, with ice cream cake purchased by the Unit I Elder Sub-Committee. Celebrating another trip around
the sun are Unit I Elders (L-R) Dianne Compo, Joann Nault, Ron McKechnie and Nancy Lowes.
BLAZING SUMMER BUCKS
GOLF & PLAY
Win Your Share of $155,000 CASH & Credits
Purchase 18-hole Round of Golf Receive
$10 Kewadin Credits
All Sites | Saturdays in August
ELECTRIFYING FRIDAYS
Hessel | Bear on the Mountain Golf Course
With same day receipt
St. Ignace | Fridays in August
Electric Bike Giveaway Every Friday in August
PIRATES GOLD
All Sites | Thursdays in September
GOLF & STAY
St. Ignace | Bear on the Mountain
June 1 - September 30
Win Your Share of Up to $20,000 Credits
Two-Night Stay, $40 Kewadin Credits, $20 Gas &
Two 18 Hole Rounds of Golf with Cart
TGIF! THANK GIFTS IT’S FRIDAY
SOO LOCKS BOAT TOUR PACKAGE
Manistique | September 25
All Customers Receive One
FREE Prize Draw Entry
Kewadin Casino Hotel - Sault Ste. Marie
Sunday - Wednesday
Two-Night Stay, Two Original Soo Locks Boat
Tour Tickets, $20 Kewadin Credits, $20 Dining
Credits & Complimentary Happy Hour Beverage
TOURNAMENTS
Check out our Full Schedule of Exciting Tournaments | Visit kewadin.com/gaming/tournaments
KEWADIN ADVANCEMENT TOURNAMENT
YOOPER TOURNAMENTS
Daily Prize Pool $400 CASH & 105,000 Bonus Points
Christmas & Hessel | Mondays
Manistique | Thursdays
KEWADIN ELITE
SLOT TOURNAMENT
FALL FRENZY TOURNAMENT
Daily $300 CASH & 130,000 Bonus Points
Daily $300 CASH & 70,000 Bonus Points
Sault Ste. Marie | Mondays in August
Sault Ste. Marie | First Tuesday Monthly
Daily $100 CASH & 35,000 Bonus Points
Sault Ste. Marie | Mondays & Tuesdays
FOOD & DRINKS
SAULT STE. MARIE
The Eatery
Fresh Start Breakfast Club | Fahrenheit 906
Northern Wok – Coming Soon
Black Rock Bar & Grill™
First Light Café
RAPIDS SPORTS LOUNGE
GOLF SIMULATOR
Reservation Times are Available by Calling 906-259-3781.
Visit our Facebook Page for Hours & Pricing
HAPPY HOUR & DRINK SPECIALS
Come in for Watch Parties, Live Entertainment,
Drink Features, and More. Visit our Facebook Page for More Information
Kewadin
Events
Kewadin
Dining
1-800-KEWADIN | kewadin.com
ste.
Manistique . st.ignace . Sault marie . Hessel. christmas
August 19, 2026 • Win Awenen Nisitotung
News
Page 5
Page 6
Language
Anishinaabemowin 2026
“Simply by changing your habitual vocabulary, you can instantly change how
you think, how you feel, and how you live.”
— Tony Robins
Choose positive words. Say them in Anishinaabemowin.
Niibin!
It’s summer!
Minwaasige miinwaa gizhinaamide. It’s hot and humid.
Madaabii zhaa-daa.
Let’s go to the beach
G’daa bagizo-mi odi.
We can swim over there.
We can pack a lunch
G’daa noopwaan-ke
miinwaa g’daa wiisinimi gojiing.
and we can have a picnic.
(Really, we don’t have a word for picnic. We say what we’ve enjoyed.
from earliest times — we eat outside G’wiisini-mi gojiing.)
Weneshii maanda?
What is this?
Miijim kookibinaagan aawan maanda.
This is a picnic basket.
Baakaakwenh e-zaazgokwaadek aawi maaba. This is fried chicken.
Piniik nanjigan aawan maanda.
This is potato salad.
‘Gookooshensak biinji waaboo’aan’ aawanoon nanda.
These are ‘pigs in a blanket’.
Ketchup aawan maanda.
This is ketchup.
Eshkdamoonh aawan maanda.
This is watermelon.
Wiigwaasminan aawanoon nanda.
These are cherries.
Bkwezhigaansak aawiwag gonda.
These are cookies.
Nibiish aawan maanda.
This is water.
Dkaagamik niibiishaaboo maanda.
This is iced tea.
Menwaagamik aawan maanda.
This is pop (soda).
Mazinibii’igen maaba baakaakwenh.
Draw this chicken. So, live chicken (maaba) would only become
inanimate if it is called a “chicken drawing.”
August 19, 2026 • Win Awenen Nisitotung
Miskominike Giizis
Raspberry-picking Moon
by Susan Askwith
Maanda ezhi-nokiimagak!
This is the way it works!
Here are some pointing words
for items considered alive:
maaba=this gonda=these
aawi=it is
aawiwag=they are
These pointing words are used for
items not considered alive:
maanda=this nanda=these
aawan=it is aawanoon=they are
Fun Fact: If you name a food baakaakwenh
(chicken), it is considered alive even though that
chicken is dead and cooked: aawi maaba.
Humor: AKA the living dead! However, if you
name it baakaakwenh wiiyaas (chicken meat), it
is then not considered alive because meat is an
inanimate word: aawan maanda!
The same idea works for giigoonh (fish).
Minawaanzin
Have fun!
Making our Sounds Most letters sound like
they do in English. Here are the exceptions.
aa sounds like the a in awesome a sounds like the a in about
ii sounds like the e in be
i sounds like the i in dip
oo sounds like the o in go
o sounds like the oo’s in book
e sounds like the e in Ed
g sounds only like it does in go
We underlined the syllables that get the emphasis.
Pronounce all the letters. Big deal: these combinations: nh, ns, ny
in a word signal the previous vowel is said nasally. The ‘n’ in these
is always silent, but you pronounce the second letter.
It’s only a sign to say the previous vowel nasally - as if you have a
stuffed-up nose!
Aambe, baapin! (Come on, laugh!)
Jim and Joe were having a picnic in a jungle.
A crocodile appeared and began to attack Jim. He yells, “Shoot
it!” “I can’t,” said Joe. “I’m out of film!”
What do you call someone who’s afraid of picnics?
A basket case!
My friend likes picnics on a sandy beach. I prefer it in a
grassy park. We can’t seem to find common ground.
Culture
August 19, 2026 • Win Awenen Nisitotung
Page 7
Fall fasting camp announced for 2026
Fall Fasting Camp and the
fall Women’s Fast for Mother
Earth will take place Sept. 30
through Oct. 4 this fall. Led by
the Sault Tribe Health Division’s
Tradtitional Medicine Program,
fasting camp is offered in the
spring and fall each year at the
Mary Murray Culture Camp on
Sugar Island.
Sugar Island is located in the
St. Mary’s River and is a township of Sault Ste. Marie, Mich.
The Women’s Fast for Mother
Earth is a one-day fast from sunrise to sunset while praying for
Mother Earth. This fall, it will
take place Oct. 3.
This fast was introduced by
the late Adam Lussier as a way
of helping the Earth in the face of
all those things that harm it, such
SAULT TRIBE HEALTH DIVISION
as pollution, climate change, and
habitat destruction. At sunset
when the fast is over, organizers
will hold a sweat lodge and feast
for the fasters.
During the fasting camp
beginning Sept. 30, participants
will fast for one to four days as
determined by the tradtional healer. Some are experienced fasters
while others are beginners.
Participants must be 18 or
older unless accompanied by an
adult. Organizers ask that ladies
remember moontime teachings.
For more information, to ask
questions, or to register for one
of the camps, call (906) 6320236.
To make an appointment with
the tradtional healer, call (906)
632-0236.
Sault Tribe Health Division
WOMEN’S FAST FOR
MOTHER EARTH
Native American
First Nations
Journalist
SaultTribeGuardian.com
Sault Tribe Health Division
Traditional Medicine Program
GERARD SAGASSIGE
2026 September Healer Clinic Schedule
TRADITIONAL MEDICINE PROGRAM
4
FASTING BEGINS AT
SUNRISE AND ENDS
AT SUNSET,
FOLLOWED BY A
SWEAT LODGE AND
FEAST.
2 22
(906)6 2-02 6
2
(906)64 -8689
(877)2 6-0
6
OCTOBER 3RD 2026
(906) 4 -8469
(866) 40 -004
@ MARY MURRAY CULTURE
CAMP, 266 HOMESTEAD RD.
SUGAR ISLAND, MI
2
MUST BE 18 YEARS OR OLDER, ANYONE UNDER 18 MUST
BE ACCOMPANIED BY AN ADULT.
PLEASE REMEMBER MOONTIME TEACHINGS.
(906)484-2727
Any Questions, or to Book an Appointment Please
Call Traditional Medicine Program at
906-632-0236 or 906-632-5268
TO REGISTER OR FOR MORE INFORMATION
PLEASE CALL
906-632-0236
aa aagaa Giizi
iizh aa
Giizhigat
ntam Giizhigat
iizh
Giizhigat
t m
ii
Giizhigat
Giizhigat
aan
Giizhigat
g
aa
Giizhigat
3
kinoomaadiigamig
([the institution
of] school)
E-kinomaa-gozid
n'daaw. (I am a
learner/student.)
zhiibiigenaatig
(writing tool)
mziniganan
(notebooks, books,
papers)
jidmoonhag
(squirrels)
0
mitigwaab
(bow)
E-nokiijig Giizhigat
(Labor [the ones who
work] Day)
sipinigan
(scissors)
Pkibinaan.
(S/he is picking
mijimenjigaanhs zaag'iganing fruit [other
(at the lake)
than berries].)
(laptop)
zasweminan
(chokecherries)
3
kajgaatewin
bkokan
mishiiminak
bashkizigan
(arrows)
(umbrella)
(apples)
(gun)
3
0
bine
Giiwse.
Ntam
Dgwaagin
(ruffed grouse) (S/he is hunting.)
(First day of Autumn)
mookmaan
e-giinaag
(sharp knife)
jiishkaamigagan
(rake)
waawaashkesh
wiiyaas
(venison)
Aangwaamzin!
(be careful)
(Good grief!)
Mooshkaneshin
Giigoonhke.
Dibiki Giizis
(S/he is fishing.) (It is a full moon.)
30
manoomin mshkiigominan mashkodewashk
(wild rice)
(cranberries)
(sage)
Ashiishmaajii!
Ashiishmaajii
Zaawmingaande
Bagwan Giizhigat
(Orange Shirt
Day)
Calendar created by Sault Tribe Language & Culture Division
Elders
Elders needed for cultural-historical interviews
Page 8
From “Elders,” Page 4
to say what they would like to
be remembered for and to leave
viewers with an inspiring final
message.
Old photographs, videos
and other visual materials supplied by the participant may be
incorporated into the completed
episode. Street said he is always
looking for older photographs
that can help bring an elder’s
story to life. He can scan photographs at the filming location
so participants do not have to
surrender possession of them.
Filming is arranged around
the elder’s schedule and comfort. Interviews have been
recorded in elders’ homes, at
Kewadin, at Niigaanagiizhik
Ceremonial Building and
through Zoom. Street said he is
also willing to travel to participants when necessary.
Elders interested in participating may contact the
Communications Video
Production office at (906) 6326398 or email Street at jstreet@
saulttribe.net.
Completed episodes are
available on the official Sault
Tribe TV YouTube channel.
Viewers can find the series
under the channel’s Playlists tab
by selecting “Nebwaakaajig: An
Elder Interview Series.” Five
episodes have been released for
public viewing. Three additional
episodes are being completed
and are expected to be released
in the near future.
Although the series focuses on one elder at a time,
Street said recurring themes
have begun to emerge among
the interviews. Members of
the tribe’s newer generation
of elders often share memories involving the same major
events, including the tribe’s
federal recognition and other
developments in its political
history. Those connections
could eventually provide mate-
rial for a longer, feature-length
documentary.
Street said such a project
could highlight particular periods in tribal history as well as
aspects of the culture that have
been lost or changed. A larger
documentary would require a
different approach. Rather than
centering each episode on one
individual, it would organize
elders’ recollections around a
historical event or subject.
“With the information I’m
gathering from the series so
far, there are many things that
could and should be given more
light,” Street said.
The individual interviews are
creating a growing record of
tribal history told by the people
who lived it. Each episode gives
an elder an opportunity to preserve not only names, dates and
events, but also the experiences, relationships and teachings
they want their descendants and
community to remember.
August 19, 2026 • Win Awenen Nisitotung
TRIBAL ELDERS INVITED TO SHARE THEIR STORIES
Sault Tribe elders who would like to preserve their memories, teachings and family history are invited to participate in
“Nebwaakaajig: An Elder Interview Series.”
Interviews are scheduled at the elder’s convenience and may be
filmed wherever the participant feels most comfortable.
Previous sessions have taken place in elders’ homes, at Kewadin,
at Niganiighizhik and over Zoom.
Joseph Street, director of video production for the tribe’s
Communications Department, can also travel to elders when necessary.
To schedule an interview, contact the Communications Video
Production office or email Street at jstreet@saulttribe.net.
Funding available for independent producers to
train Native youth in film and media
LINCOLN, Neb. –Vision Maker
Media (VMM), the premier source
of media by and about Native
Americans since 1976, is offering
funding to independent producers
or Native youth organizations who
have an interest in training Native
Sorenson gets
a big miigwech
A big miigwech for our Unit 3
Representative Bridgett Sorenson
for her commitment, dedication
and community involvement by
caring for our unit members.
Bridgett went downstate with
a handicap bus to pick up one of
our Unit 3 elders and brought him
home from the hospital, getting a
handicap ramp to help this family
in their desperate need.
Our Unit 3 representative does
so much for our unit and community. You can always find Bridgett
doing whatever she can to help
out, always with a big smile or
laughter. She is also a great bingo
caller. Thank you, Bridgett, for
being the kind person you are.
A Unit 3 elder,
Ilene O. Moses,
St. Ignace, Mich.
Member seeking
old Win Awenen
Nisitotung issues
Do you have a stack of old
tribal newspapers in your garage
or attic?
Sault Tribe Elder Sandra
Dunnebacke is interested in
talking to you. She is most
interested in the issues that are
not available online in the tribe
archives: from January through
July 2007 and anything from
before February 2005.
Sandra lives in Lansing, and is
always happy to find a reason to
make a trip to the Sault.
Send her an email at sadunnebacke@gmail.com, you’ll make a
new friend and recover that corner in the back room.
Photos by KU Native Storytelling
Workshop
Above: The Worak Horak Summer
Film Camp.
youth in short-format media story
development and production.
“Native heritage and Native
perspectives must be prominent
on all of today’s media platforms.
For that reason, the Native Youth
Media Project is one of the most
important initiatives that Vision
Maker Media has launched in our
50-year history,” said VMM CEO
and President Francene BlytheLewis.
“Native youth can build upon
KU Native Storytelling Workshop
the cultural storytelling talents of
their elders while achieving invaluable media expertise and personal
life skills. We are grateful to all
independent producers or Native
youth organizations who apply to
join this effort.”
VMM’s call for the Native
Youth Media Project includes experienced independent producers or
Native youth organizations working
with Native youth ages 15-21. The
intended goal is for Native youth to
produce a media piece focused on
topics such as health and wellness,
Alaska Teen Media Institute’s
Spirit of Youth.
science, climate and environment,
education, art, culture, history, language, and empowerment.
Finished projects will then be
shared in a local community setting
and the screening format will be
determined by the independent producer or Native youth organization.
Interested independent producers or Native youth organizations
can apply for up to $25,000 in
funding support. All completed
projects should be in an exhibitable
digital format and archived in the
highest quality available.
Eligible independent producers
or Native youth organizations must
be U.S.-based and the call is open
year-round. For the guidelines and
online application, please visit:
https://visionmakermedia.org/fundyour-film/.
VMM has trained over 500
youth in its fifty-year history.
VMM provides a creative outlet
for self-expression, builds powerful
mentoring relationships, and fosters
leadership and public speaking.
News
Soo Co-op Credit Union awards 2026 Nick
Gerrish and BMCC Scholarships
August 19, 2026 • Win Awenen Nisitotung
Soo Co-op Credit Union
(SCCU) is proud to announce
the recipients of its 2026 Nick
Gerrish Scholarships, awarding
four scholarships to outstanding
student member-owners as they
pursue their higher education
goals.
For 40 years, the Nick Gerrish
Scholarship Program has helped
SCCU member-owners further
their education by providing
financial assistance to students
demonstrating academic achievement, leadership, and community
involvement. As part of the application process, applicants submitted an essay outlining their future
career goals and explaining how
the scholarship would help them
achieve those aspirations.
“We are honored to support
these exceptional students as they
pursue their educational dreams,”
said Lynda Ellis, president and
CEO of Soo Co-op Credit Union.
“Each recipient has demonstrated a strong commitment to
their future, and we are proud to
invest in their continued success.”
The recipients of the 2026
Nick Gerrish Scholarships are:
— Drake Stec, $2,500
— Ashley Dzelak, $2,500
— Granger Desormeau, $2,500
The Bay Mills Community
College Scholarship, awarded
annually to an SCCU member-owner attending Bay Mills
Community College, was presented to:
— Jessie Maeder, $1,500
Since its inception in 1986,
the Nick Gerrish Scholarship
Program has awarded more than
$289,000 in scholarships to
Soo Co-op Credit Union member-owners, helping students
achieve their educational and
career goals.
Page 9
Left to right: Joy Hill, Chief Financial Officer, Soo Co-op Credit Union; Lynda Ellis, President/CEO, Soo Co-op
Credit Union; scholarship recipients Ashley Dzelak, Drake Stec, Granger Desormeau, and Jessie Maeder; and
Melissa Atkinson, Chief Operating Officer, Soo Co-op Credit Union.
Village of Newberry holds “Name the Moose,”
children’s contest for grades four through 12
BY SCOTT BRAND
“Something very pressing has
come to our attention,” began a
Facebook post from the Village
of Newberry on May 6. “Our
moose mascot cannot remember
their name! After a long time
searching their memory (and
probably the woods), Moose
decided the only solution was
to ask the community for help.
That’s where you come in.”
The “you,” in this case, was
identified as the children 4-12
years old who either reside in the
Village of Newberry or attend
Tahquamenon Area Schools.
The “Name the Moose” participants were instructed to color
a moose and offer their suggestions “calling on the creativity
of our youngest residents to help
give Moose a name they’ll never
forget.”
A May 29 deadline was set
Jeffrey
Bailey
graduates
Jeffrey A. Bailey (right) graduated from Northern Michigan
University on May 2, 2026. He
earned a Master of Science in athletic training and has accepted a
position with a company in Grand
Haven working in his chosen
career.
Bailey is a proud member of
the Sault Tribe. Attending his
graduation ceremony were his
mother April (Bailey) Olson, his
brother Arron Bailey, and his
grandparents, Kenneth and Inez
(McCoy) Bailey.
Congratulations
Jeffrey!
Above: Jackson Hood received a moose stuffy and an official Village of
Newberry hat at the meeting he attended with his Nana, Lori Williams,
great-grandmother Shirley Kowalke and cousin Jessie Maeder. Right:
Jackson’s coloring sheet submission.
for the contest, but the wining where Jackson Hood was
ner was not announced until
recognized for his name “Mooz,”
mid-June, setting the stage for
pronounced like multiple “moos”
the July 21 celebration at the
from a cow.
Newberry Village Council meet“He had several common
names on a list and he talked
with me about Native names and
what they might be like,” said
Jackson’s Nana, Lori Williams.
“We did a little research and
found that, according to that
research, in the Anishinaabe/
Ojibwe language a moose is
called or referred to as, ‘Mooz.’”
“I helped him look it up but
he made the choice himself and
is very proud of it,” continued
Williams. “In the Anishinaabe/
Ojibwe language, ‘Mooz’ means
‘Twig Eater,’ which of course
is exactly what a moose is and
what they do. They browse and
literally eat twigs.”
Jackson, who will be going
into the fifth grade at the
Tahquamenon Area Public
Schools when the summer
draws to a close, is a member
of the Sault Tribe of Chippewa
Indians.
Community
Page 10
August 19, 2026 • Win Awenen Nisitotung
Shackleton and Kindle publishing present The
Legend of Kineauwis, a Mackinac Island fantasy
BY BRENDA AUSTIN
A grueling Michigan winter
gave Patricia Shackleton the idea
for a summer adventure rooted
in Mackinac Island, Anishinaabe
traditions and the spirit world.
Her new book, “The Legend
of Kineauwis,” follows an
Anishinaabe teenager who spends
the summer with her grandmother, Nokomis. What begins
as a reluctant stay becomes a
journey beneath the island, where
Kineauwis and three Little People
travel through limestone caves
and hidden spirit paths.
Along the way, Kineauwis
encounters Mishipeshu, the
Water Panther, and Sabe, a forest guardian associated in the
story with honesty and the Seven
Grandfathers teachings. She also
searches for black wampum,
helps free drowned spirits trapped
beneath the island and learns that
respect can accomplish what force
cannot.
By the end of the summer,
she has become more confident
and has begun to understand her
responsibilities to her community
and the natural world.
“I wanted to develop a contemporary legend that is positive and
inspirational,” Shackleton said. “I
find joy in creating new stories.”
Shackleton describes the fantasy as “an Ojibwa ‘Lord of the
Rings.’” She said she also sees the
book as an opportunity to introduce Anishinaabe and non-Anishinaabe readers to the Seven
Grandfathers virtues and to ideas
about peace, respect and living in
balance.
Readers of Shackleton’s earlier book, “How the Little People
Stole My Wampum,” will recognize several characters, but she
said each book is designed to
stand on its own.
Shackleton completed “The
Legend of Kineauwis” on April 14
and began the publishing process
in early June. She said plans call
for the book to be offered in six
languages and distributed through
Amazon’s Kindle Publishing
through about 70 platforms in
digital, paperback, hardcover and
audiobook formats. As of Aug.
10, The Legend of Kineauwis is
available on Amazon by searching
Patricia Shackleton, or the book’s
title.
The formatted manuscript also
features Shackleton’s photographs
and illustrations.
Shackleton hopes Kineauwis’
Board passes resolutions at August 4 meeting
The Sault Tribe Board of
Directors officially named the
new facility in Hessel, designed
to house the fitness center and the
Youth Education and Activities
(YEA) Program at its Aug. 4 session. The Makoons Community
Wellness Center, using the
Ojibwe word for “bear cub,” was
adopted after consulting with the
Hessel Elder group and the tribal
community.
In other action the board:
— Approved a fiscal year
(FY) 2026 budget modification to
Medical Insurance for an increase
in the use of fund balance totaling
$3,557,767.48 addressing unanticipated potential expenses for
the calendar year.
— Approved the establishment
of a FY 2026 budget under the
heading Cyber Claim in preparation for an $8,040,000 insurance
payment as a result of the 2025
cyber attack.
— Approved a FY 2026 budget modification to Elder Heating
Assistance for a $70,320.13
increase funded by third-party
revenue and tribal support.
— Approved a FY 2026 budget modification to the Indian
Child Welfare Act (ICWA) for
a transfer of $140,974.95 from
the Opioid Settlement Fund
to cover staffing changes to
meet increased case loads and
approved the establishment of a
FY 2027 budget for ICWA with
Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA)
revenue of $196,955 and a transfer of Opioid Settlement Funds
of $349,016.49 and $124,975.18
from Tribal Support.
— Established a FY 2027
budget Challenge Cost Share
with federal U.S. Department
of Agriculture (USDA) revenue
of $24,989.90 working with the
U.S. Forest Service to study lowland ecological systems in the
Hiawatha National Forest.
— Approved FY 2026 budget
modification to Conservation
Management for a transfer of
$49,722.70, a FY 2026 budget
modification to Public Safety
totaling $24,516.03, and a FY
2026 budget modification to the
Juvenile Detention Center in the
amount of $23,141.28, all from
Opioid Settlement Funds.
— Approved FY 2026 budget
modifications involving third-party revenue of $169,326.67 for
Marquette Medical Nursing.
— Approved FY 2026 budget
modifications for Emergency
Preparedness utilizing more than
$15,600 in revenue from the state
of Michigan.
— Amended the bylaws
for the Sault Tribe’s Housing
Authority Commission.
— Awarded Superior
Sealcoating Inc. a contract for
$72,913 from BIA Transportation
Maintenance Program funds for
sealcoating and line painting at
the Tribal Health Center and Big
Bear.
— Awarded a $755,116 contract to Payne & Dolan Inc. for
the Escanaba Housing Roads
Reconstruction Project.
— And, adopted a docking
policy establishing a formal process for docking or mooring on
Sault Tribe property and made
minor amendments to Trbal Code
Chapter 21: Hunting and Inland
Fishing adjusting season dates
and bag limits.
One of the illustrations Shackleton used in the book.
journey will entertain readers
while encouraging them to consider the importance of respect,
cooperation and caring for the
natural world.
“I wanted to develop a contemporary legend that is positive
and inspirational,” she said. “I
want to share a bit of the positive
vibe of this book with the com-
munity.”
Shackleton said, “I have dedicated the book to my mother,
Evelyn Shackleton. She was a
great orator and storyteller. As
you read the book, the Little
People will turn to Kineauwis
and say ‘What’s next?’ That’s my
mother’s voice. This book is a
response to her question.”
Nicholas J. Kibble, CFP®
Wealth Advisor
812 Ashmun St.
Sault Ste. Marie MI 49783
“The highest compliment we can receive is an
introduction to friends and family.”
Phone: 906-635-1111
Toll Free: 800-421-5701
Fax: 517-292-0259
nicholas.kibble@lpl.com
www.sinceritywealthsolutions.com
Securities and Advisory Services offered through LPL Financial,
a Registered Investment Advisor, FINRA/SIPC
Turn your
weekends
into Adventures!
Up to date members’ addresses sought!
Sault Tribe members whose addresses are not up to date have
“bad addresses” with the tribe’s Enrollment Department. Check
the names on the list and if you see a friend or relative on the list
let them know.
Go to saulttribe.com and scroll down Membership Services
to Tribal Enrollment. Then go to the Information column on the
left side of the Enrollment page and select “Up to date addresses
sought.” Call (800) 251 6597 or email Stacey Synett at:
ssynett@saulttribe.net.
With a Recreational Loan from
Soo Co-op Credit Union.
Sault Ste. Marie - Brimley
Kinross - Cedarville
www.soocoop.com
Community
Keeping children connected to community
August 19, 2026 • Win Awenen Nisitotung
FROM ACFS
When children cannot safely
remain in their parents’ care,
one of the first questions asked
is whether a relative or someone close to the family can care
for them. This is known as a
Relative First approach, and
it is an important part of how
Anishnaabek Community and
Family Services works with children and families.
Relative First means looking
to grandparents, aunts, uncles,
adult siblings, extended family
members, and others who have a
significant relationship with the
child. Within our Tribal community, this may also include godparents, family friends, or other
trusted adults considered family.
Placement with someone
familiar can provide comfort and
stability during a difficult time.
It can also help children remain
connected to their family, culture,
community, school, traditions,
and other important relationships.
A Relative First approach
does not mean a child can automatically be placed with any
relative. The child’s safety and
individual needs must always be
carefully considered. Potential
caregivers are assessed to determine whether they can provide
a safe, stable, and supportive
home.
Finding relatives begins as
early as possible and continues
throughout the case. Even when
a relative cannot provide a home,
Thank you to the local
businesses that donated to this
year’s governmental employees
team building picnic on Aug. 7:
Tanglewood Golf Course,
two rounds of 9 holes with cart
Sault Historic Sites, Tickets
to historic sites
Bear on the Mountain Hessel
Golf Course, two 18 holes w/
cart for two people
Pennys Kitchen, two gift
cards
Franks Place, gift card
Cup of the Day, BOGO gift
card and free latte
Clydes, gift card
Nevilles, gift card
Pure Country, gift card, shirt
and hat
Applebee’s, three gift cards
Arona Home Essentials, swag
bag
Facilities, gift baskets
Hotel, two show tickets,
hotel, and dinner packages
Palace, three gift cards
Antlers, gift card
Lume, swag bag
Kewadin Casino, two onenight stay, concert tickets, and
$60 food packages
Miigwech!
Page 11
they may still be able to support the child and help maintain
important family connections.
When a relative is not available, ACFS works to place the
child with a Tribal foster family
whenever possible. This helps
children maintain their cultural
identity and sense of belonging
while their parents work toward
reunification or another permanent plan.
There is an ongoing need for
foster families within our Tribal
community. ACFS is looking for
caring individuals and families
willing to provide children with
safety, stability, guidance, and
support during a difficult time.
If you are interested in
learning more about becoming
a foster parent, please contact
Anishnaabek Community and
Family Services at (906) 6325250. Your support can make a
lasting difference in the life of a
child and within our Tribal community.
Thank you, local businesses Happy birthday, Mason!
Sault Tribe Special Election Board
Happy 6th
birthday,
Mason!
Love,
Nonna
& Papa
The Sault Tribe Special Election Board held its first meeting July 21 at the Sault Kewadin Casino. The Sault
Tribe Board of Directors had appointed the individuals after a random drawing of applicants. Nick VanAlstine
has been appointed BIA representative and chairman of the group. Representing Unit 1 is Carolyn Dale, Unit
2, Jacquelyn Minton, Unit 3, Colleen Utter, Unit 4, Timothy Derwin and Unit 5, Taylor Spade. At large representatives are Clarence Hudak and Emily Smith. From left to right are Colleen Utter, Jackie Minton, TJ Derwin,
Clarence Hudak, Emily Smith and Carolyn Dale (Nick VanAlstine and Taylor Spade not pictured).
Soo Co-op Credit Union celebrates
Fifth Annual Christmas in July
SAULT STE. MARIE, Mich.
— Soo Co-op Credit Union
(SCCU) recently celebrated the
fifth year of its annual Christmas
in July campaign, continuing a
tradition that has become a meaningful way to give back to the
communities it serves.
Throughout July, the SCCU
team spread kindness through
random acts of generosity.
Employees surprised commu-
nity members with gift cards
and treats, supported local first
responders and organizations,
participated in community
events, and encouraged others to
pay that kindness forward.
What began as a simple way
to brighten someone’s day has
grown into an annual initiative
that reflects Soo Co-op Credit
Union’s commitment to serving
its members and strengthening
the community beyond financial
services.
As Christmas in July celebrates its fifth year, the campaign continues to demonstrate
that even the smallest acts of
kindness can make a lasting
impact.
To learn more about SCCU’s
2026 Christmas in July campaign, visit www.soocoop.com/
christmasinjuly/2026.
Fall will be here before you know
it and a new ride will get you to
that favorite hunting spot and haul
that bait! Stop by and see us today!
906-643-6800 • 132 N. State Street
P.O. Box 187 • St. Ignace, MI 49781
st. ignace, north bay, moran township, cedarville,
mackinac island, naubinway, newberry
During its Christmas in July campaign, the SCCU team stopped by the Big Bear Youth Summer Recreation
Program to talk with students about the importance of saving and building strong money habits at an early
age.
www.fnbsi.com
Health
Page 12
August 19, 2026 • Win Awenen Nisitotung
August is National Breastfeeding Month
The United States
Breastfeeding Committee designates August as National
Breastfeeding Month, so designated by the United States
Breastfeeding Committee.
The American Academy of
Pediatrics and the American
Dental Association recommend
nursing for the first year of a
baby’s life. Why? Nursing is a
healthy choice for both moms
and babies, with many benefits, including a fast and strong
bond between baby and Mom.
Breastfeeding reduces the risk for
baby bottle tooth decay. This type
of tooth decay often occurs when
a baby is put to bed with a bottle
containing formula, milk, or fruit
juice.
The ADA found that babies
who were exclusively breastfed
for 12 months or more were less
likely to have teeth alignment
issues such as open bites, crossbites, and overbites.
Still, a breastfed baby may
need braces someday. Other factors, including genetics, pacifier
use, and thumb sucking affect
alignment. But why not control
those factors that you can control?
Breast milk and baby
— Is easier for babies to digest
than formula
— Is the best source of nutrition for baby
— Changes to meet the nutri-
Partnership expands community
access to Naloxone
The Sault Tribe Behavioral
Health Division has partnered
with Anishinaabek Community
and Family Services (ACFS) to
expand access to Naloxone in the
community.
A Naloxone Harm Reduction
station is now located in the front
entrance of the ACFS building
located at 2218 Shunk Rd. Sault
Ste. Marie, Mich. This location is
accessible 24/7, allowing anyone
to obtain this life-saving product.
A second Harm Reduction station is now located at the ACFS
office located at 60 Kincheloe Dr.
Kincheloe, Mich. This location is
only accessible during business
hours.
If you need naloxone or would
like to have some on hand just in
case, please reach out to the Sault
Tribe Behavioral Health Division
at (906) 635-6075.
BY CHRISTI DEMITZ, MICHIGAN
STATE UNIVERSITY EXTENSION
Discover how small changes
can make a big difference.
Living with a chronic condition can be challenging, but
it doesn’t have to define your
future.
Whether you’re looking to
boost your energy, manage
stress or build healthier daily
habits, the choices you make
today and every day can help
you feel better tomorrow.
Michigan State University
Extension offers the Chronic
Disease Self-Management
Program, which is called
Personal Action Toward Health
(PATH) in Michigan. These
educational programs are
designed to help people living
with chronic conditions (and
their caregivers) gain confidence, develop practical skills
and take an active role in their
health.
Curious if PATH is right for
you or someone you care about?
Discover the tools to help you
take control of your health and
improve your quality of life.
For more information on diabetes or making healthy lifestyle
changes, visit MSU Extension’s
Food and Health website at:
https://www.canr.msu.edu/food_
health/.
Personal Action Toward Health
tional needs of a growing baby.
— Helps protect baby from
infection and illnesses like ear
infections by providing immunities from Mom to the baby
— May lower a child’s risk of
obesity and asthma
— Can also help lower baby’s
risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).
— Breastfed infants tend to
have fewer speech problems than
bottle-fed infants
Breastfeeding and Mom
— Moms who breastfeed have
lower rates of ovarian and breast
cancer
— Moms who breastfeed have
lower rates of high blood pressure
— Moms who breastfeed have
lower rates of Type 2 diabetes
— Breastfeeding helps the
Mother’s body return to normal
and decreases blood loss after the
baby is born
To get ready to breastfeed,
while mom is pregnant, she can:
— Talk to the doctor or midwife about breastfeeding
— Do her own research
— Ask family members for
support
— Realize that in the first
couple of months, babies need to
nurse every few hours, even at
night
— Learn about breast pumping, especially if mom wants
other family members to be able
to feed the baby
— Find out how to eat healthy
while breastfeeding
Once baby is born
— The doctor, nurse or
midwife know that immediate
skin-to-skin contact with baby is
important, and nursing is the best
way to do that
— Nurse whenever baby is
hungry
— Ask health professionals for
help anytime. They can answer
questions about nursing.
Breast milk is the perfect food
for your baby. Breastfeeding
gives mom and baby a closeness
that is delightful. The emotional
satisfaction is intense and is so
unique for each mom and her
baby, truly a time to be cherished.
Thank You to Our Sponsors
The Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians extends its sincere appreciation to our
generous sponsors, dedicated volunteers, and hardworking committee members whose
support made the 25th Annual Sault Tribe Golf Scholarship Classic a tremendous success!
Your commitment to higher education and the future of our tribal members helped make
this year’s event one of our most successful to date.
Triple Diamond Sponsors
Gordon Food Service • Missanabie Cree Business Corporation
Double Diamond Sponsors
CompEdge • Kewadin Casinos
Reception Sponsor
PNC Bank
Lunch Sponsor
The Huntington National Bank
Diamond Sponsors
Agilysis NV • Alliant Insurance Services / Tribal First • Automated Comfort Controls
Gundlach Champion • H.T. Hackney Co. • Hunt’s Maintenance and Services
Imagine This • Sault Printing Company • Sault Tribe, Inc.
Beverage Sponsors
Reyes Coca-Cola Bottling • RSM US
Putting Contest Sponsor
Meritain
Platinum Sponsors
Caesars Entertainment • FSA Advisory Group • The France Firm
MetalQuest • UBS Financial Services • WilmerHale
Gold Sponsors
4Imprint • Automated Comfort Controls • Bellwether Public Relations
Blarney Castle Oil • Bovia Design Group • Butzel Long • Central Savings Bank
William P. Connolly, CPA • Development Capital Networks • Khoury Johnson Leavitt
Konami Gaming • Lume Cannabis Co. • The Mahoney Group • McGahey Construction
North American Video • Sault Printing Company • U.P. Engineers & Architects
Hole Sponsors
Blue Stone Strategy Partners • Brian M. Bloch PLLC • Cavco Industries
Cloverland Electric • CompOne Administrators • Duhadway, Kendall & Associates
Gitchi Gaming • International Game Technology • Imperial Dade • Louie’s Well Drilling
Mackinac Straits Health Systems • MUZA Sheet Metal Co. • Oberstar, Inc.
Plath Meats • Plugged in Media • Schoolcraft Memorial Hospital • Slotbrokers
Sonosky, Chambers, Sachse, Endreson & Perry • Soo Co-op Credit Union
Superior Health Foundation • Taylor Lumber • Tweet/Garot Mechanical
Upper Peninsula Health Plan • WilmerHale
Car Hole in One Sponsors
Rodenroth Motors • Soo Motors
Cart Sponsors
Albert Heating & Cooling • Arbor Solutions • Autore Oil • Coleman Engineering
ECO Fuels and Gifts • Grand Traverse Mobile Communications
Mackinac Environmental • Mandel Electric • Manistique Oil • Mark’s Tire • Billy Mills
Northern Michigan Rheumatology • O’Connor’s Chrysler Dodge Jeep
Pingatore Cleaners • Range Bank Sawyer Village • Shute Oil
UP Imaging • Wayne’s Electrical
Prize & Silent Auction Sponsors
Alpine Chocolat Haus • Bay Mills Resort & Casino • Bear on the Mountain Golf Course
Central Savings Bank • Cheboygan Golf & Country Club • The France Firm
Grand Traverse Resort & Spa • Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum • H.T. Hackney Co.
Imagine This • Kewadin Casinos • Marchetti Distributing Company • Mike & Kim McCoy
Munoscong Golf Course • MyMichigan Health • Parker’s Ace Hardware
Performance Food Service • Sault Ste. Marie Country Club
Tanglewood Marsh Golf Course • Weir Furniture Center
August 19, 2026 • Win Awenen Nisitotung
Feature
Page 13
29th Annual Sugar Island Powwow held on July 17-19
Photos by Jennifer Dale-Burton
Hoop dancer amazes spectators.
Elder Bea Jackson in front of the flagbearers.
Dancer Mike Hatch in the arena during grand entry.
Friends Yolanda, Angeline and Becky hang out.
Young crafters Tony and Jim sell their bracelets.
Head dancers Melissa Causley and Abe Bouschor.
COMMUNITY
Page 14 • August 19, 2026 • Win Awenen Nisitotung
Win Awenen Nisitotung • August 19, 2026 • Page 15
Clear Lake Education Center hosts West End Culture Camp 2026 Kitchi-Miniss Jingtamok celebrated at Bay Furnace
An estimated 100 people attended the inaugural
West End Culture Camp on Clear Lake July 25-26
including 70 members of the Youth Education and
Activities (YEA) Program. Above, attendees prepare
to make bracelets, chokers and necklaces to take
home.
YEA Manager Lisa Burnside with husband Cal arrived
early to make sure they had a good seat for the event.
Boys playing basketball.
A steady breeze off of Lake Superior brought the flags to life
as participants prepared to post the colors.
Director of Language and Culture Cody Jodoin broke out a lawn chair
while fishing from the camp’s dock. He did confirm there were bass in
Clear Lake during his visit.
Lining up for Grand Entry at the Munising Powwow on Aug. 8. In
addition to the usual flags and staffs that are carried in to most
powwows, the Sault Tribe’s four colors — white, yellow, red
and black — flags were carried by young members of the Youth
Education and Activities (YEA) Program.
Above, the Teal Lake Singers perform an Inter-Tribal dance,
while below the Ice Circle Singers follow up with one of their
own.
Mikey Herro, Hunter Shaver and Karsyn Wymer with Miles Jones
in front.
The raft was a popular destination for a sunset swim.
Dalis, 12, and Kinsleigh, 14, both of Escanaba,
work on their chokers.
Dr. Martin Reinhardt explains to those in attendance the significance
of the eagle whistle utilized during the ceremony.
Eilyn Perry, Axel Bronson, Kylyn Forejt, Nora Storm and Willow
Richardson gather after completing their crafts.
Joe Ojibway instructing YEA kids to play Baagaadowewin (traditional
lacrosse).
Caden Colegrove of St. Ignace provided step-bystep instructions for the students as they made
their medicine pouches.
Above and below, regalia on display.
Above, the true heroes of the event kept everyone’s bellies full.
Ashley and Jeani Reffruschinni making pizzas to feed the crowd
on Saturday. Below, Laura Bouschor packing ham and cheese
sandwiches for the students to enjoy on their ride home.
Jeremy Burnside, U.S. Marine Corps Purple Heart
recipient served as Master of Ceremonies along with
Jr. MC Harper May Miron, 9, of Manistique.
Above, Frog Hills made the trip from Bay Mills. Below, Mukwa
Giizhik also ventured west to sing.
Guests enjoying their dining experience.
Above and below, a steady hand and careful eye
were required to fashion the medicine bags
Lauryn, 7, and Camryn, 8, with their finished medicine bags.
Dr. Katy Matson was the Head Female Dancer tutoring Mary Goetz, 11, of Munising for this role.
Rebekah, 10, of Gwinn and Brooklyn, 12, of Hessel.
Community
Page 16
August 19, 2026 • Win Awenen Nisitotung
Makoons Community Wellness Center opens
On Aug. 3, the new Hessel
Community Wellness Center
opened its doors to the public
registering more than a half-dozen members in less than an hour.
“We want to be a leader in
community wellness for Native
and non-Native people,” said Unit
II Director Lana Causley-Smith
as she welcomed guests to the
new facility.
The structure, which has a
footprint of nearly 11,000 square
feet, is home to various exercise machines, free weights and
high-tech treadmills, along with
a mini-gymnasium for basketball
and other indoor activities.
Another wing of the building will serve a home for Y outh
Education and Activities (Y EA)
Program providing a gathering place not only for those in
Hessel, but all Unit II students
from Drummond Island, DeTour
V illage, Pickford, Rudyard,
Naubinway, and Newberry.
The building also has a large
kitchen, designed for Y EA, that
eventually may be accessed by
the public for future events, such
as wedding receptions, graduation
parties or family reunions, pro-
vided the users adhere to the drug
and alcohol-free policy.
Causley-Smith expressed
her gratitude to a number of
individuals including the Sault
Tribe Board of Directors, fellow
director Kimberly Lee, the Hessel
Elders community and Unit II
Y EA Coordinators for guiding
the project and singled out a former director as well: “Catherine
Hollowell was instrumental in
bringing this to fruition.”
A large groundbreaking ceremony was held in May 2025
clearing the way for McGahey
Construction to begin the build,
culminating 14 months later with
the soft opening on Aug. 3.
On Aug. 4, the Sault Tribe
Board of Directors passed a resolution naming it the Makoons
Community Wellness Center.
“Makoons” is the Ojibwe word
for “bear cub” or “baby bear.”
“The Makoons Community
Wellness Center is a significant
step forward for our people’s
health and happiness. It’s a place
where everyone can enjoy themselves,” said Director Lee after
the official name was approved.
“Y outh, teens, and elders can participate in several activities and
exercise, and it’s a great way for
us to stay healthier, connect more,
and build a stronger community
now and for future generations.”
A ribbon-cutting ceremony to
celebrate the opening of the new
facility has been scheduled for
Aug. 28, 2026.
Jim Francis of Hessel enjoying a
snack at the soft opening.
Madison Rivera of Hessel with 1
½-year-old Sero Windsor, one of
the youngest visitors of the day.
Shay Lee-Backus filling out
paperwork to become one of the
first to register for a membership.
Terrie Milligan of Hessel.
Tod Krino tests a treadmill.
This YEA group was the first to tour their new home on Aug. 3
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August 19, 2026 • Win Awenen Nisitotung
Natural Resources
Page 17
Sault Tribe holds inaugural Hunt Safe program
On Aug. 12, the Sault Tribe
Natural Resources Wildlife
Division, in conjunction with
Sault Tribe Law Enforcement,
conducted its first Hunt Safe program with more than 20 students
graduating with their hunter’s
safety certificates.
“We are really excited to be
able to offer this,” said Katie
Schultz of the Sault Tribe
Wildlife Program. “It’s a pretty
awesome thing.”
The pilot program offered a
one-day course to provide future
hunters with safety instruction
required by state and tribal
regulations. Twenty-two individuals, including four adults,
were enrolled in the program
where they were instructed in the
safe-handling of firearms, identifying their target and even how to
clean and care for their guns.
“They will be able to hunt in
Michigan and all 50 states,” said
Schultz of those who successfully
completed the course, “as well as
Canada and Mexico.”
All of the participating
instructors were certified through
the Native American Fish and
Wildlife Society.
The Hunt Safe Program is only
offered to members of the Sault
Tribe. Those that complete it will
be issued a Hunter Education
Card bearing the Sault Tribe logo.
“We will be printing those
within the next week,” said
Schultz.
Young hunters on the west end
of the seven-county service area
will have their opportunity to take
the Hunt Safe Program on Aug.
25 in Manistique. Due to the
demand, the Sault will be hosting
a second Hunt Safe course on
Aug. 27. Spots are still open for
both dates.
The Hunt Safe Program is
offered free of charge.
Space is limited for both of the
upcoming events. For registration
forms, course availability, and
questions contact Leane Kinsella
at (906) 632-5040 or at lkinsella@saulttribe.net.
On Aug. 12, the Sault Tribe Natural
Resources Wildlife Division, in
conjunction with Sault Tribe Law
Enforcement, conducted its first
Hunt Safe program with more
than 20 students graduating.
Young hunters on the west end of
the seven-county service area will
have an opportunity to take the
program on Aug. 25 in Manistique.
The Sault will be hosting a second Hunt Safe course on Aug. 27.
Right, an example of the hunter
education card.
The Sault Tribe Natural
Resources Division invites
all community members to
gather this September for a
special Manoomin (wild rice)
Community Seeding Event
focused on connection, ceremony,
and caring for our relationship
with manoomin.
Through community involvement, ceremony, and hands-on
stewardship, participants will
have the opportunity to help
restore manoomin beds and nurture its return for future generations. This gathering provides a
chance to learn, reconnect with
the water, and give back to the
ecosystem that sustains us.
Participants are encouraged to
bring water-friendly gear and
come prepared for changing water
conditions. While seeding areas
are typically accessed by kayak
or canoe, shallow water levels
in previous years have required
some areas to be reached by wading. A limited number of kayaks,
canoes, waders, and life jackets
will be available for participants.
Light refreshments will also be
provided.
The event is anticipated to take
place during the second or third
week of September. The final
date will be determined based on
the availability of seed from our
distributors following the annual manoomin harvest, honoring
the natural timing of the harvest
cycle. Once seed is available and
conditions are suitable, the confirmed date and additional event
details will be shared.
Stay connected through Sault
Tribe Seven Generations social
The Chippewa Ottawa
Resource Authority (CORA)
continues to track contaminants
in fish from the 18 36 Treaty
ceded waters of the upper Great
Lakes.
According to Environment
Coordinator Mike Langendorf,
CORA annually takes samples
from Lake Huron. Lake Superior
or Lake Michigan on a three-
year rotating basis.
“These fish are then prepared
for analysis and sent to an independent laboratory for testing,”
reported Langendorf. “Each
fish was tested for mercury and
PCBs, which have historically
identified as contaminants that
can impact human health. In
addition, testing was also conducted for the presence of PFAs/
PFOs, as this chemical family
has more recently recognized as
having a significant potential to
adversely impact human health.”
CORA began testing for
PFAs/ PFOs in 2021 and has
completed an assessment across
all three of the upper Great
Lakes and has determined that
lake trout and whitefish had very
low levels of PFOs and in some
cases there were no PFOs detected. Mercury and PCBs were
found in fish filets, but remained
at levels consistent with previous
testing and even declined slightly
in some samples.
“The results of these comparisons showed level of PFOs
detected in the average fish from
the 18 36 waters was 10 times
less than Michigan’s average
fish,” reported Langendorf.
CORA regulates fishing within the 18 36 Treaty Ceded waters
of Michigan and takes action to
protect, preserve and enhance
the fishery on behalf of the five
tribes which signed the Treaty
of Washington: Bay Mills Indian
Community, Little Traverse Bay
Bands of Odawa Indians, Little
River Band of Ottawa Indians,
Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa
and Chippewa Indians, and the
Sault Tribe of Chippewa Indians.
BY SARAH ZEILER, MSU
EXTENSION
After the fall harvest, many
home gardeners pack up their tools
and wait for spring. But this quiet
season is actually a great time to
improve your soil using winter
cover crops.
These crops grow in the cooler
months and offer benefits like erosion control, weed suppression and
improved soil fertility. Some die
off naturally in winter, while others
survive and need to be managed in
spring.
Cover crops that work
Several cover crops are
well-suited for planting after fall
harvest in the Midwest. These
crops grow in cool weather and
have proven to offer strong benefits for soil health.
— Oats: Oats are a popular
winter-kill cover crop. They grow
fast, suppress weeds and add
organic matter to the soil. After
dying off in winter, they decompose and enrich the soil for spring
planting.
—Cereal Rye: Rye is winter-hardy and survives cold temperatures. It grows deep roots that
loosen compacted soil and suppresses weeds. In spring, it must
be mowed or tilled before planting
vegetables.
— Garden Peas: These legumes
fix nitrogen in the soil and grow
quickly in fall. They die off with
frost, leaving behind nutrients for
spring crops.
These crops are ideal for
Michigan and other Midwestern
states, where fall planting windows
are short and winters are cold.
What doesn’t work
Some cover crops are less
effective for winter use, especially
in cold climates.
Daikon Radishes (Oilseed
Radish): While not ideal for winter
survival, daikon radishes are useful
in fall. Their deep taproots break
up compacted soil and improve
drainage.
Radishes are best used to open
up the ground before winter, especially in areas with heavy foot
traffic or poor drainage. However,
they die off in winter and should
not be relied on for spring weed
suppression.
The rotting radishes can also be
smelly and cause problems with
neighbors. The radishes may also
harbor diseases and pests for your
spring brassica crops like cabbage
and broccoli.
Tips
— Plant cover crops as soon as
possible after fall harvest.
— Use a rake or hand-crank s
preader for even seed distribution.
— Ensure good seed-to-soil
contact for germination.
— Avoid planting crops from
the same family as your spring
vegetables to reduce disease risk.
Other Uses
Winter cover crops offer more
than just soil protection. They also
help with:
Compost: Dead cover crops
like oats and peas can be added
to compost piles. Their biomass
breaks down quickly and adds
nutrients.
Pest Control: Some cover
crops suppress weeds and reduce
pest pressure. Rye, for example,
creates a mulch layer that blocks
weed growth and discourages
pests.
Soil Building: Cover crops
improve soil structure, increase
organic matter, and enhance water
retention. Radishes and rye are
especially good at loosening compacted soil and improving drainage.
Community invited to Sault Tribe NRD Manoomin
Community Seeding Event in mid September
Graphic by Nicole Maleport
media channels for updates as the
harvest approaches and plans are
finalized.
Tracking contaminants in upper Great Lakes fish
Winter cover crops: Preparing your garden for spring
Page 18
Walking on...
SANDRA ADAIR THORIN
Sandra Adair Thorin, 76, of St.
Ignace, Mich., died July 12, 2026,
at home. She was born May 30,
1950, in St. Ignace to Patrick and
Wanda Joy (Pemble) McGuire.
Sandra grew up in St. Ignace
where she began her education at
Ursuline Convent and Academy
before graduating from St. Ignace
LaSalle High School. She met the
love of her life, Curtis Thorin, on
what was supposed to be a double
date at the Windjammer. As fate
would have it, the ladies switched
dates, and the rest was history.
Sandra and Curtis were united in
marriage on June 23, 1973, at St.
Ignatius Loyola Catholic Church
in St. Ignace.
Together they raised two
children while following Curtis
during his military service,
always doing their best to remain
close to the community they
loved. After his discharge from
the military, they returned home
to St. Ignace, where Sandra
began a career as a bus driver for
LaSalle High School. She faithfully transported generations of
students for 30 years. Toward the
end of her career, she also drove
for the Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of
Chippewa Indians before retiring
in 2022.
A devoted member of her
community, Sandra generously
volunteered at the local food
pantry, supported the Hope Chest,
and was always willing to lend
a helping hand to area churches,
especially St. Ignatius Loyola
Catholic Church.
Sandra found joy in life’s simple pleasures. She loved watching
westerns on television, tending
to her flower gardens, and gathering around the table for card
games, especially Uno. She was
well known for making what
many considered the best dinner rolls around. Above all else,
Sandra treasured her family. Her
granddaughter, Ameesa, was the
light of her life and brought her
endless happiness. Sandra also
had a memorable story she loved
to tell about somehow catching a
salmon with nothing more than
a baseball bat, a tale that never
failed to bring smiles and laughter.
Sandra is survived by her son,
Curtis (Pam Anton) Thorin of
Chicago, Ill.; daughter, Jennifer
Thorin of St. Ignace; granddaughter, Ameesa Thorin of Mount
Pleasant, Mich.; and her beloved
dog, Milo.
Sandra was preceded in death
by her husband, Curtis; parents,
Patrick and Wanda; and sister,
Linda Fenwick.
A memorial mass was held
July 18, 2026, at St. Ignatius
Loyola Catholic Church, in St.
Ignace.
Family Life Funeral Homes
– St. Ignace assisted with the
arrangements. Condolences may
be given to the family at www.
familylifefh.com.
ROBERT “BOB” LEONARD
PARRISH
Robert “Bob” Leonard Parrish,
90, of Bay
Mills, Mich.,
died at his
home Aug.
2, 2026. He
was born on
Dec. 27, 1935,
in Sault Ste.
Marie, Mich.,
to Clarence
and June (Carrick) Parrish.
Bob grew up in Bay Mills
and graduated from Brimley
High School. He proudly served
his country in the United States
Marine Corps, where he was stationed at Camp Pendleton during
the Korean War. After returning
home from military service,
he married Irma Cameron, and
together they raised their family.
Throughout his life, Bob held
many jobs that he enjoyed, but
he was most proud of the Parrish
Fish Store, which he established
with his sons.
Bob is survived by his daughter, Lynda (Jason) Pesola of
Brimley, Mich.; son, Rory Parrish
of Bay Mills; grandchildren, Eric
(Lisa) Burtt of Traverse City,
Mich., Rachel Lyons of Brimley,
Robert Burtt of Bay Mills, Tara
(Dennis) Parrish of Sault Ste.
Marie, and Brook Pesola of
Brimley; great-grandchildren,
Eve, Matthew, Andrew, Burtt,
Quentin and Neva Lyons, as well
as the two whose names he could
never remember, so he affectionately called them “#1” and “#2”:
#1 Shiloh Dutcher and #2 Delicia
Sparks.
Bob was preceded in death by
his wife, Irma; daughter, Lorri
Burtt; and sons, Robert Parrish Jr,
Roger and Richard Parrish; and
parents, Clarence and June.
Visitation was held Aug. 6, at
St. Kateri Tekakwitha Church, on
Lakeshore Dr., in Brimley, Mich.
A mass of Christian burial immediately followed.
Bob’s final resting place will
be at Mission Hill Cemetery in
Brimley.
Memorial contributions may
be made in Bob’s honor to the
Salvation Army, 132 W. Spruce
St., Sault Ste. Marie, MI 49783.
Family Life Funeral Homes
– Sault Ste. Marie assisted
the family with arrangements.
Condolences may be given to the
family at www.familylifefh.com.
MICHAEL HARRY ALLARD
Michael Harry Allard, 90, of
Sugar Island, Mich., died June 6,
2026, at his home. He was born
April 24, 1936, in Flint, Mich.,
to Cyril and Isabella (Mastaw)
Allard.
Mike was a loving father,
brother, grandfather, great
grandfather,
uncle, and
friend who
meant the
world to his
family and
everyone who
knew him.
Mike spent much of his life
on Sugar Island, a place he loved
dearly. He was well known for
his skill as a spear fisherman and
seemed to have a natural talent
for it. If there were fish to be
found, Mike could find them.
Community
He loved being on the water and
spent countless hours doing what
he enjoyed most.
Mike proudly served his
country as a veteran and later
worked as a truck driver until his
retirement. He was a hardworking
man who believed in taking care
of his family and always doing
what was right.
Above all else, Mike loved his
family. He was kind, generous,
and always there when someone
needed him. One of the greatest
loves of his life was his wife,
Nancy. He missed her deeply and
carried that love for her in his
heart every day.
Mike also had a playful side
and enjoyed pulling pranks on
people. He loved making others
laugh and always seemed to find
a way to bring a smile to someone’s face. His sense of humor
and the memories he created with
family and friends will never be
forgotten.
Mike’s legacy lives on
through the memories he created,
the lessons he taught, and the
love he shared so freely. We will
miss his smile, his stories, his
laughter, and his unwavering love
for his family.
Though our hearts are heavy,
we are grateful for the time we
shared with him and for the
example he set through a life well
lived. He will be forever loved,
forever remembered, and forever
missed.
Mike is survived by his children, Linda (Dave) Schmalz of
Kincheloe, Mich., Theresa Reed
of Waterloo, Iowa, Lori (Ricky)
Button of Westland, Mich., and
Michael (Karen) Allard of Lake
Orian, Mich.; grandchildren,
Sarah, Lester, Kaylea, Karl,
Christopher, and Amber; great
grandchildren, Kalin, Evan,
Sophia, Skyles, Patrick, Calvin,
Elaina, Jackson, Shay, Lily, and
another on the way; siblings, Joy
Lewis, Mary Brown, Rose Allard,
Jackie Allard, Kateri Allard, Cyril
John Allard, and many nieces,
nephews and cousins.
Mike was preceded in death
by his wife, Nancy Allard; grandchildren, Alex, and Devin; sister,
Muriel Lane; brothers, Thomas
Allard, Gregory Allard, and
Joseph Allard.
Visitation was held on June
9, 2026, at the Niigaanagiizhik
Ceremonial Building, 11 Ice
Circle, Sault Ste. Marie, MI
49783, continuing until June
10, 2026, when the Traditional
Ceremony was held.
A mass of Christian burial was
held on June 11, 2026, at Holy
Name of Mary Pro-Cathedral
Catholic Church in Sault Ste.
Marie, Mich.
Family Life Funeral Homes
– Sault Ste. Marie assisted
the family with arrangements.
Condolences may be given to the
family at www.familylifefh.com.
To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Michael
Harry Allard please visit our
Sympathy Store.
MIKALA “MIKKI” JO (EBY)
MESSER
Mikala “Mikki” Jo (Eby)
Messer, 65, of Sault Ste. Marie,
Mich., passed away peacefully
surrounded by the love of her
family. She was born on Jan.
20, 1961, in Sault Ste. Marie
August 19, 2026 • Win Awenen Nisitotung
to Theodore
and Patricia
(Menard) Eby.
Mikki was
a devoted
wife, mother,
daughter, sister, and friend
who spent her
life taking
care of the people she loved. She
devoted herself wholeheartedly
to her husband, Gary Messer, and
their children, Jack Messer and
Olivia Rowe, who were the center
of her world.
Mikki showed her love
through caring for others. She
was always cooking, cleaning,
doing favors, or finding a way
to make someone’s life a little
easier. She rarely sat still and
was happiest when she was doing
something for someone else. She
was always there for her friends
and family and could be counted
on whenever someone needed
her.
Mikki spent more than 30
years working at Sault Tribe
Head Start, where she prepared
meals for the tribal youth and
became a familiar and caring
presence in the lives of generations of children. Her work was a
reflection of the nurturing person
she was; she took pride in caring
for others and found purpose in
helping create a warm, welcoming environment for the children
she served. Her dedication to the
program and the families in her
community was a meaningful part
of her life and legacy.
Outside of work, Mikki found
joy in the simple things, days at
the beach, cake decorating, celebrating birthdays, and the family
traditions she held so dear. She
loved bringing everyone together
for holiday meals and especially
loved Christmas. She took great
joy in finding the most thoughtful
and amazing gifts for the people
she loved and in spoiling her
children, even well into adulthood. Every Christmas brought
her famous Christmas cookies; a
tradition filled with love that her
family will cherish and continue
for years to come.
Mikki is survived by her
husband, Gary Messer; son,
Jack (Kaela) Messer; daughter,
Olivia (Donovan) Rowe; mother, Patricia Eby; and her siblings, Nanette (Lisa) Clark, Ted
(Connie) Eby, Lori Randazzo,
Douglas (Laurie) Eby, and Kristi
(Shane) Bailey.
Mikki was preceded in death
by her father, Theodore Eby.
Rather than a traditional funeral
service, Mikki’s family hosted a
Celebration of Life in her honor
on Aug. 14, 2026, at 313 Club,
313 Ashmun St. Sault Ste. Marie,
MI 49783. Family and friends
were invited to come together
to share memories, celebrate
Mikki’s life, and honor the love
and joy she brought to so many
people.
Mikki spent her life taking
care of everyone else. Her greatest legacy will be the love she
gave so freely, the people she
helped, and the countless lives
she touched. She was always
there. She always cared. And she
will be loved and missed forever.
The family would like to extend
their deepest gratitude to Hospice
of the EUP, where Mikki spent
her final two weeks. Their compassion, care, and support brought
comfort not only to Mikki, but
to her entire family during an
incredibly difficult time.
In lieu of flowers, the family
asks that donations be made in
Mikki’s memory to Hospice of
the EUP, 308 W. 12th Ave. Sault
Ste. Marie, MI 49783.
Family Life Funeral Homes
– Sault Ste. Marie assisted
the family with arrangements.
Condolences may be given to the
family at www.familylifefh.com.
LINDA SUE (LEASK)
TURNER
Linda Sue (Leask) Turner, 66,
passed away
unexpectedly on Aug.
10, 2026, at
Schoolcraft
Memorial
Hospital in
Manistique,
Mich. She was
born May 22,
1960, in Sault Ste. Marie, Mich.,
to Edward “Chum” and Shirley
(Scales) Leask.
Linda was a woman whose
greatest joy came from her family. She loved spending time with
her family and grandchildren. Her
love was unconditional and her
heart was generous. Her presence
brought comfort and warmth to
everyone, fortunate enough to
know her. As a mother, she was
devoted, caring and endlessly
supportive. As a grandmother,
she brought a special kind of
love; one filled with patience,
laughter, hugs with countless
treasured moments. Her children
and grandchildren were the pride
and joy of her life. Her love will
continue to live on through each
of them.
Linda also had a passion for
the game of pool. She loved the
fun, competition, and camaraderie that came with being around
the pool table. Whether she was
playing a friendly game with
family and friends or enjoying the
challenge of a well-placed shot,
some of her happiest memories
were made laughing, talking, and
enjoying good company while
playing the game she loved.
Linda is survived by her
children, David (Amber) Turner,
Brandi Sturm, and Ronnie
(Tiffany Jones) Stebleton; significant other, James Bogie; grandchildren, Ashlynn, Brock, Laila,
Nicholas and Aubree; sister,
Angie; brothers, Joe (Leask) and
Mike (Connie) Leask; brother-inlaw, Oscar Orazietti; along with
numerous nieces and nephews
who will all miss her dearly.
Linda was proceeded in death
by her parents, Chum and Shirley
Leask; and siblings, Cheryl
(Leask), Sharon (Orazietti),
David Leask and Mark Leask.
Linda’s family invited
family and friends to attend a
Celebration of Life on Aug. 15,
2026, at Huck’s Pub & Grill,
11358 W. H 40 Rudyard, MI
49780.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made
to Family Life Funeral Homes,
24549 S. M-129 Pickford, MI
49774, to assist Linda’s family
with burial expenses.
Though Linda’s family’s
See “Obits,” page 19
August 19, 2026 • Win Awenen Nisitotung
community
Walking on, continued
From “Obits,” page 18
hearts are heavy with her passing,
they find comfort in knowing that
her love, wisdom, kindness, and
beautiful memory will remain
with them always. She leaves
behind a legacy of love that will
continue through generations.
Linda will be remembered
every time her family stops at
a casino, gathers around a pool
table or dinner table, shares a
laugh, or simply enjoys the company of the people they love.
Family Life Funeral Homes
– Sault Ste. Marie assisted
the family with arrangements.
Condolences may be given to the
family at www.familylifefh.com.
To send flowers or a memorial
gift to the family of Linda Sue
(Leask)Turner please visit our
Sympathy Store.
HERMAN CHARLES
SHAMPINE
Herman Charles Shampine, 76,
of Cheboygan,
Mich., passed
away peacefully July
24, 2026,
at McLaren
Northern
Michigan
Hospital in
Petoskey,
Mich. Born in Cheboygan Aug.
10, 1949, Herm was the son of
Charles and Ruth (Neumann)
Shampine. A lifelong resident of
the community he loved, Herm
shared 35 years with his longtime companion, Tina Merchant,
whom he married on Dec. 22,
2025, in Cheboygan.
Herm was a hardworking
man whose career reflected both
skill and dedication. He worked
for Durocher Dock and Dredge
(later Kokosing) for more than
40 years, traveling throughout
the United States for all types
of marine construction projects.
Over the years, his work duties
included everything from diving to operating equipment. His
expertise in the industry was
well-known and he was well-respected by his coworkers who all
knew him as “Cap” for his longtime role as a tugboat captain.
After a proud and steady career,
Herm retired in 2015.
Herman was a gifted mechanic
who could coax just about anything back to life, from snowmobiles and lawn mowers to
whatever machine happened to be
giving everyone else a headache.
He was always tinkering with
something, and his projects had
a way of following him indoors.
It was not unusual for a motorcycle or snowmobile to become
temporary living room décor, or
for a carburetor to receive careful attention right there on the
kitchen table. In Herm’s world,
if something needed fixing, any
room could become a workshop.
Although Herm spent much
of his life working on the water,
his connection to it reached far
beyond any job. Raised among
the lakes and rivers of Northern
Michigan, and the son of a commercial fisherman on the Great
Lakes, fishing was woven into the
fabric of his life. When he was
on the water, casting a line, he
found peace, relaxation, and genuine joy, and when the catch was
good, the promise of a fish fry
made it even better. Herm spent
countless hours on Mullett Lake,
whether he was out in a boat on a
warm summer evening or watching tip-ups on the ice in the quiet
of winter.
Even after years spent living on the road in a camper
for work, Herman still enjoyed
camping. The Upper Peninsula
held a special place in his heart,
and Brimley and the Sault were
among his favorite places to stay,
especially where he could watch
the freighters pass by from the
comfort of his camp chair. He
treasured the times when his children and grandchildren camped
with him, gathering around the
campfire, cooking out, and simply enjoying one another’s company. Family camp at Aloha State
Park each summer was a tradition
he looked forward to sharing with
the whole “Shampine Tribe.” He
and his family, along with his
sisters and their families, gathered
each summer for a few days of
delicious meals around the campfire, corn hole tournaments, a lot
of fun, and wonderful memories.
When he was not on the water
or at a campsite, Herm enjoyed
taking off on his motorcycle for
a ride around Northern Michigan,
snowmobiling with family and
friends, and watching NASCAR.
His favorite driver was always
Jeff Gordon in the No. 24
Chevrolet. Whether he was outdoors, on the road, or relaxing
with a race on, Herm found joy in
the simple pleasures that brought
his favorite people together.
Above all, Herm loved his
family. He took great pride in his
grandchildren and loved being
part of their lives, whether he
was cheering them on at sporting
events, attending school activities, or spending Saturdays at
the bowling alley watching them
compete in tournaments. He was
proud of each of them in their
own special way. Herm also
showed his love through cooking
for his family. He was an excellent cook known for his soups,
but his true specialty was fish.
He was always ready to bring
everyone together for one of his
famous fish fries, where good
food and family made his heart
full.
Herm will be remembered
as being fiercely independent,
wonderfully stubborn, and truly
one of a kind. He had a generous
heart, a deep love for his family,
and a willingness to do anything
for the people he cared about.
Those who knew him will smile
as they remember his many sayings and bits of advice, especially, “Keep the slimy side down!”
Even in passing, Herm continued
to give of himself, helping others through his gift as a tissue
donor with Gift of Life. He was
also deeply proud of his Native
American heritage and his membership in the Chippewa tribe.
Herm leaves his wife, Tina
Merchant; his daughter, Penny
(Will) St. Amour; and his son,
Joe (Christy) Shampine, all of
Cheboygan. He will be deeply
missed by his grandchildren,
Mindy (Goran) Nikolovski,
Trisha Woodgate (Delos)
Cripps, Darin Woodgate,
Salena (Tod) Schramm, Ethan
Shampine, Brady Shampine, and
Peyton Shampine; and by his
great-grandchildren, Mirra Cripps
and Kai Nikolovski.
Herm is also survived by his
sisters, Rosemary Tracy, Linda
(Dan) Johnson, Chrissy (Tony)
Sutterley, and Phyllis (Dave)
Brandt, all of Cheboygan; his
sister-in-law, Tami Morrow; his
brothers-in-law, Ron Griggs,
Todd (Donna) Merchant, Tony
Merchant (Cheryl), and Troy
(Bridget) Merchant; and many
nieces and nephews who will
remember him with love.
He was preceded in death by
his father, Charles Shampine; his
mother, Ruth Shampine Plaunt;
his stepfather, Ray Plaunt; and his
sister, Bev Griggs.
In keeping with Herm’s wishes, his family honored him in
the Native American tradition of
the Chippewa tribe. Friends and
family were invited to pay their
respects at Herm’s home July 27.
Those wishing to express sympathy may consider a memorial
donation in Herman Shampine’s
memory to McLaren Home Care
and Hospice.
As the sun sets but leaves a
radiant glow, we say goodbye but
left behind are precious memories
of an amazing man and a life
well lived. Until the next port
when we cross decks again – Fair
Winds and Following Seas, Dad.
DON. J. “BUZZY” GEISLER
Don. J. “Buzzy” Geisler, 64,
of Eau Claire,
Mich., passed
away July
23, 2026, at
his home surrounded by his
family.
A visitation
with Buzzy’s
family took
place on July 27, 2026, at the
Starks & Menchinger Chapel in
St. Joseph, Mich. A funeral service took place July 28, 2026, at
the funeral home with Matthew
Starner officiating. Burial followed at Shanghai Cemetery.
Memorial contribution may
be made to St. Jude Children’s
Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude
Place, Memphis, TN 38105 or
Corewell Health Hospice. Those
wishing to leave an online condolence may do so at www.starksmenchinger.com.
Buzzy was born on Jan. 19,
1962, to Don and Nancy (Dorow)
Geisler in St. Joseph. He graduated from Eau Claire High School
and continued his education
at Lake Michigan College. He
worked for the Berrien County
Road Commission for almost 37
years. He started as a truck driver
working all the way to his most
recent role as Superintendent,
prior to his retirement. On Oct.
26, 1985, Buzzy married the
love of his life, Lorreen James,
at Grace Lutheran Church in St.
Joseph. Together they had one
son, Joshua, who he loved very
much.
Buzzy was a proud lifelong
member of the Eau Claire community. He served his community
in many ways, from coaching
many local sports teams all the
way to becoming the President of
the school board. He also enjoyed
being with his family members
spending time in Michigan’s
Upper Peninsula along with his
great friends who live there.
Buzzy is survived by his wife of
40 years Lorreen Geiseler; son
Joshua Geisler; siblings, Denise
(Rob) Ceccon, Lori (Steve)
Fairbanks, Lenard (Christina)
Tidey, Debora (Jim) Watson, and
Dawn (Eric) Wang; numerous
nieces & nephews; and numerous great-nieces and nephews.
Buzzy was preceded in death
by his parents, Don Geisler and
Nancy Hahn.
CINDY MARIE MANSE
Cindy Marie Manse, 67,
of Brimley, Mich., died July
6, 2026, at
MyMichigan
Medical
Center in
Sault Ste.
Marie, Mich.
She was
born April
28, 1959,
in Baraga,
Mich., and was soon adopted by
Thomas and Mable Manse of
Sault Ste. Marie.
Cindy grew up in Sault Ste.
Marie, where she attended St.
Joseph Catholic School before
attending Sault Area High
School and graduating from
Rudyard High School. In 1975,
she married Charles Sharp Sr.,
and together they were blessed
with four wonderful sons who
became the center of her world.
Throughout her life, Cindy
dedicated herself to serving
others, working in a variety of
customer service and retail positions, including at the Valley
Camp and Frost Doughnuts,
before retiring from Bay Mills
Resort & Casino. No matter
where she worked, Cindy was
known for her warm smile, kind
heart, and genuine compassion
for those around her.
A woman of deep faith, Cindy
was a devoted member of both
St. Mary’s Catholic Church and
St. Joseph’s Roman Catholic
Church. Her faith was a guiding
force in her life and was reflected in the kindness, generosity,
and love she shared with others
each day.
Above all else, Cindy treasured the time she spent with
her family. Being surrounded by
those she loved brought her the
greatest happiness. She found
joy in the simple blessings of
life, spending time outdoors,
attending church, crocheting
thoughtful gifts, cooking and
baking delicious meals, and
opening her heart to anyone in
need. Cindy had a nurturing
spirit and was always willing to
lend a helping hand, offer words
of encouragement, or simply be
there for someone who needed
comfort. Her selfless nature,
unwavering love for her family,
and compassionate heart will be
remembered and cherished by all
who had the privilege of knowing her.
Cindy is survived by her
sons, Charles (Julie) Sharp of
Kincheloe, Mich., Kevin (Emily)
Sharp, and Thomas Sharp, both
of Sault Ste. Marie; grandchildren, Kevin Sharp Jr., Kalob
Sharp, Kody Sharp, Charles
Sharp III, Chaz Sharp, Tyler
Romeri, Camden Rau, Aubree
Rau, Bristol Rau, Jeffrey Sharp
II, Ashley Petit, Brandon Sharp,
Kylie Broten-McLean, Anjelie
Page 19
Latour, Thomas Sharp Jr., Jade
Sharp, Elena Stuart, Elijah
Stuart, and Ava Stuart; along
with many great grandchildren;
and partner, Thomas Deluca.
Cindy was preceded in death
by her son, Jeffrey Sharp;
grandson, Johnathon Sharp;
granddaughter, Annabel Stuart;
parents, Thomas and Mable; and
sister, Judy Smith.
Visitation was held on July
29, 2026, at Family Life Funeral
Homes and was followed by
funeral services.
Family Life Funeral Homes
– Sault Ste. Marie assisted
the family with arrangements.
Condolences may be given to
the family at www.familylifefh.
com.
ROSE MARY (HOGARTH)
BRABANT
Rose Mary (Hogarth)
Brabant, 63,
of Sault Ste.
Marie, Mich.,
died June 8,
2026, at the
Ball Hospice
House in
Sault Ste.
Marie. She
was born Oct.
18, 1962, in Sault Ste. Marie,
to John and Marie (Mendoskin)
Hogarth.
Rose grew up in Sault Ste.
Marie and attended Sault Area
High School. She worked for
many years at Northern Linen
and later retired as a supervisor
from DDC OMNI.
Rose was a proud member
of the Sault Tribe of Chippewa
Indians.
Rose enjoyed a variety of
crafts and was especially talented at crocheting, beading, and
basket making. She cherished
spending time with her family
and loved cooking and preparing meals for those she cared
about. Her creativity, kindness,
and devotion to her loved ones
will be fondly remembered by
all who knew her.
Rose is survived by her sons,
William Hogarth of Sault Ste.
Marie, Christopher Brabant of
Franklin Park, Ill., and Donald
Brabant of Sault Ste. Marie;
grandchildren, Julius St. James,
Leland Hogarth, Ryan Brabant,
and Payton Brabant; siblings,
Betty Caron of Windsor, Ont.,
Evelyn Cardamoni of Sault
Ste. Marie and Irene (Larry)
Pavlot; and lifetime friend, Julia
Rawlings.
Rose was preceded in death
by her parents, John and Marie;
brother, John Hogarth; and
brothers-in-law, Tom Caron and
Joe Cardamoni.
A memorial gathering was
held on June 23, 2026, at
Family Life Funeral Homes in
Sault Ste. Marie, Mich. The
memorial service immediately
followed.
Memorial contributions may
be made in Rose’s honor to Ball
Hospice House, 308 W. 12th
Ave., Sault Ste. Marie, MI 49783.
Rose’s final resting place will
be Wilwalk Cemetery on Sugar
Island, Mich.
Family Life Funeral Homes
– Sault Ste. Marie assisted
the family with arrangements.
Condolences may be given to the
family at www.familylifefh.com.
News
Page 20
August 19, 2026 • Win Awenen Nisitotung
A statement from the chairman:
Sault Tribe reacts to USACE Line 5 decision
Yesterday was a dark day
posed of to fulfill a government
for Tribal Nations across the
permit.
Midwest. It is a dark day for the
We must care for our ancestors
Great Lakes, the environment, and and protect the Straits. This is inteall those who hold a special place
gral to our way of life.
in their hearts for the Straits of
If Enbridge begins boring a
Mackinac.
4-mile-long tunnel beneath the
Oaths have been broken. Tribal Straits of Mackinac, it will disturb
sovereignty ignored. The federal
and uproot venerated areas. For us,
government’s Indian trust responthese are the bones and spirits of
sibility disregarded.
our grandparents, our Ogemmag,
The United States Army Corps our leaders, and honored
of Engineers
Ogichidaag, our
has approved
warriors.
a key permit
For
ur stories tell of
Enbridge
Enbridge,
it
Mackinac Island
needs to conmay be another
being the first
struct a tunload of earth
land
to
appear after the
nel beneath
moved during
Great Flood receded. As
the Straits of
construction.
Mackinac. A
For us, it is
far back as we can trace
tunnel that
our ancestors.
our oral histories, the
threatens to
And when
Straits have held signifiunearth and
people visit
cant cultural meaning to
violate the
Lake Michigan
Anishinaabe people. For
bodies and
during the
spirits of our
summer if concenturies, the area was a
ancestors
struction is ever
hub of trading networks
who have
underway and
and a place for ceremony.
been at rest
hear the con— Chairman Austin Lowes
since long
stant hum and
before colofeel the vibranization.
tion of industriAnd all this betrayal for
al equipment for months on end,
what? The benefit of a Canadian
we will know what lies beneath it.
mega-corporation worth billions
Our ancestors.
of dollars? Under the guise of a
The Straits, and all the Great
national energy emergency?
Lakes, should never have been
Thankfully, construction
threatened by Line 5 to begin
cannot begin at this time. The
with. The irreversible harm that
Michigan Supreme Court recentcould be caused to the Straits
ly vacated permits issued by
of Mackinac, and the physical,
the Michigan Public Service
mental, and spiritual burden tribal
Commission. Enbridge must reap- communities would bear while
ply and go through that permitting recovering our resting relatives,
process again.
cannot be dismissed as another
So, despite the Corps’ decision, cost of construction.
this project has by no means been
We do not trust Enbridge.
given the green light to begin conAnd we are deeply disappointstruction.
ed by the Corps’ decision to grant
Enbridge also has a long
Enbridge the permit needed to
history of broken promises and
take the next step toward conspilling millions of gallons of oil.
struction.
Let us not forget the disasters near
That disappointment is made
Kalamazoo, Mich., and Grand
greater by the process that brought
Rapids, Minn. Two of the largest
us here.
inland oil spills in United States
On Monday, following short
history occurred under Enbridge’s notice, the Sault Tribe was grantsupervision, spilling nearly 2 miled one hour of virtual consultation
lion gallons of oil combined.
with the U.S. Army Corps of
Is this the fate that awaits Line
Engineers. Our subject experts
5 and the Great Lakes tunnel proj- voiced concerns about the tunnel,
ect?
the permitting process, treaty
We can only pray to the
rights, our ancestors, and the
Creator that it is not.
cultural and environmental conseThe Straits of Mackinac have
quences of this project.
been sacred since time immemoriFollowing that consultation, we
al.
were given just 24 hours to subAnishinaabe people see the
mit written comments.
Straits as multidimensional. It is
We made our position clear.
home to both the physical and the There should not be oil pipesuperphysical. The two are interlines underneath the Straits of
woven as one. We cannot have
Mackinac.
one without the other. It has been
We know the coming years
this way since Creation.
may be difficult for everyone who
Our stories tell of Mackinac
values the Great Lakes. But we
Island being the first land to
are not done fighting.
appear after the Great Flood
In fact, if there is a silver lining
receded. As far back as we can
throughout this process, it is that
trace our oral histories, the Straits
Michigan’s 12 federally recoghave held significant cultural
nized tribes have never been more
meaning to Anishinaabe people.
united. Just this Tuesday, leaders
For centuries, the area was a hub
and representatives from all 12
of trading networks and a place
tribes assembled at Bay Mills to
for ceremony.
discuss our shared concerns and
The water, plant and animal
strategies for responding if the
life, spirits, and our ancestors and
Corps issued Enbridge’s permit.
their belongings buried there are
On Wednesday, we received
not simply resources to be disthat answer.
O
And we cannot overstate how
shortsighted we believe this decision is.
In 1836, our ancestors signed
the Treaty of Washington. That
treaty is federal law. The record,
including the Corps’ own findings, shows that construction and
operation of Enbridge’s tunnel
would diminish treaty-protected
fishing, access, cultural practices,
ceremonies, ancestral relation-
ships, and the resources and
conditions that make those rights
meaningful.
Consultation does not supply
tribal consent.
Our treaty rights are not
expendable.
The United States made a
promise in 1836. The Army Corps
had an opportunity and a responsibility to uphold that promise.
With this decision, the Corps has
failed to honor its treaty obligations.
But this decision is not the end.
The Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of
Chippewa Indians will continue to
stand with our sister tribes.
We will continue to protect our
treaty rights. We will continue to
protect our ancestors. And we will
continue to defend the Straits of
Mackinac and the Great Lakes for
the generations yet to come.
August 19, 2026 • Win Awenen Nisitotung
Representative Reports
Page 21
Chairman Lowes reports to the membership
AUSTIN LOWES
TRIBAL CHAIRMAN
Lansing Community Event and
Downstate Meeting
On July 20, the Sault Tribe
hosted a community event for
our tribal citizens living in the
Lansing area. Our Language
& Culture Division played an
important role in the event,
bringing dancers who demonstrated and shared the different
styles of powwow dancing with
those in attendance. A drum was
also present, representing the
heartbeat of our people.
The tribe provided dinner
for everyone in attendance, and
an entire bison was distributed
to tribal families to take home.
Beyond the cultural activities and
food distribution, the event provided an important opportunity to
meet directly with our downstate
citizens, hear their concerns,
answer questions, and discuss
what is happening within our
tribe.
The following day, on July 21,
the tribe held its annual downstate meeting. I remain a staunch
supporter of continuing these
meetings and finding additional
ways to engage our citizens who
live outside our seven-county
service area. The majority of
our tribal membership lives outside our service area, and this is
something to remember when we
make our decisions.
Capitol Hill visits
On July 23, I traveled to
Washington, D.C., to meet with
Senator Gary Peters, Senator
Elissa Slotkin, and Congressman
Jack Bergman to discuss several
important issues facing the Sault
Tribe.
One issue I raised was the
growing threat that prediction
markets pose to tribal gaming.
I also provided each of these
individuals with an update on the
Line 5 tunnel project and discussed the significant impact this
project would have on the Sault
Tribe.
Our concerns with the tunnel
project extend far beyond the
environmental risks associated with boring a 4-mile-long,
22-foot-diameter tunnel beneath
a bedrock, which has never
been done before in the United
States. Beyond this, I am deeply
concerned about the potential
disturbance of unmarked Native
American burial sites around
the Straits. Our ancestors were
buried in places overlooking the
water. Dogs specially trained
to locate human remains have
flagged hundreds of potential
burial sites in the area. This project would disturb these burial
sites, and the damage couldn’t be
undone or mitigated. These are
the resting places of our ancestors, and they deserve to remain
undisturbed and protected.
I conveyed to our congressional delegation just how serious
this issue is for the Sault Tribe.
In my view, the destruction or
disturbance of our ancestors’
graves would represent one of
the most profound contemporary
harms that could be inflicted on
our tribe. Protecting the Straits
is therefore not simply an environmental issue, but it’s also an
issue of culture, history, and our
responsibility to those who came
before us.
Line 5 and tunnel project
update
On Aug. 10, I represented the
Sault Tribe during consultation
with the U.S. Army Corps of
Engineers regarding the proposed Line 5 tunnel permit. I
was joined by the tribe’s general
counsel, repatriation specialist,
and Natural Resources director.
Board Members Cole Goudreau,
Sue St. Onge, and Aaron
Payment also attended.
I was extremely disappointed
with how the Army Corps handled this consultation. The tribe
requested consultation on Aug. 6
(Thursday). On Aug. 7 (Friday),
we were notified that the Corps
had agreed to consult with us,
however, they scheduled the consultation for Aug. 10 (Monday).
This provided the tribe with only
one business day to prepare.
The Corps also would not
accommodate an in-person consultation and instead required
the meeting to occur virtually. A
federal decision as consequential
as whether to permit the Line
5 tunnel deserves meaningful,
face-to-face, government-to-government consultation. I firmly
believe this consultation should
have occurred in person at the
Straits of Mackinac—the very
place that would be impacted by
the proposed project.
On Aug. 11, I traveled to the
Bay Mills Indian Community
to meet with tribal chairpersons
from across Michigan to discuss
how our tribal nations will con-
tinue working together to oppose
Line 5 and pursue its decommissioning. Newly elected Unit
3 Board Member Sue St. Onge
attended as well and has proven to be a valuable asset to our
tribe’s work on this issue.
The board of directors also
recently authorized my office
to join Line 5-related litigation
without requiring a separate
board vote each time. This will
allow the tribe to respond quickly
when legal action is necessary. It
will also help prevent our tribe
from missing opportunities to
join cases.
My office is also working
closely with our Communications
Department to provide written
and video updates as developments involving Line 5
and the Tunnel Project occur.
Additionally, the tribe is contributing $15,000 to support Paddle
for the Future, a Line 5 demonstration taking place Aug. 29
from 9 a.m. to noon at Kiwanis
Beach in St. Ignace.
Line 5 and the proposed tunnel have significant implications
for our treaty rights, sovereignty,
cultural resources, and the waters
that our people have depended
upon since time immemorial. I
will continue to keep our citizens
updated on this issue.
Administration for Children
and Families
I previously reported that
I was appointed chair of the
Administration for Children and
Families (ACF) Tribal Advisory
Committee (TAC). ACF is an
important federal partner for
Indian Country, providing funding for child welfare, Headstart,
family assistance, and many
other programs that directly
serve our tribal citizens and families.
Serving as chair of the committee provides our tribe with
greater access to ACF leadership
and the federal offices responsible for administering many of
these critical programs. This creates an opportunity to strengthen
those relationships, address ACF
related issues more efficiently,
and better advocate for the needs
of our tribe and Indian Country
as a whole.
Tribal leaders serving on advisory committees such as this are
able to select a technical advisor
to assist with their work. I selected our ACFS Director Jamie
Moran, who also has a social
work background and brings
valuable experience working
directly with the programs and
families impacted by ACF policies and funding.
Jamie and I attended our first
in-person meeting together on
Aug. 4 and 5. The experience
was extremely valuable, and we
established connections with
several offices within ACF that
could expand services for our
tribal citizens. I am excited about
what this role can mean for our
tribe and will continue providing
updates as this work progresses.
Constant negativity in unit
reports
A growing theme in Director
Sorenson’s recent unit reports
has been her references to a
“good old boy” network within
tribal leadership. In her most
recent report, she suggested that
gender may have played a role
in her not being selected as Vice
Chairperson. Because the board’s
vote resulted in a tie that I was
required to break, I think it is
appropriate for me to explain
why I cast my vote the way I did.
My decision had nothing to
do with Director Sorenson’s gender. It was based on her lack of
involvement in some of the major
issues, consultations, and intergovernmental work facing our
tribe. I was elected to the board
in 2020 and elected chairman in
2022. During my four years as
Chairman, Director Sorenson has
not attended any of the following:
— Monthly Chippewa Ottawa
Resource Authority (CORA)
meetings,
— JLLJ litigation,
— Consultations regarding
Line 5,
— Annual consultation with
the U.S. Attorney,
— Annual consultation with
Michigan’s Attorney General,
— Annual Capitol Hill visits
in Washington, D.C.,
— Quarterly United Tribes of
Michigan (UTM) meetings,
— Quarterly Midwest Alliance
of Sovereign Tribes (MAST)
meetings,
— Meetings with U.S.
Senators and members of
Congress when they visit the
tribe,
— Annual I-500 legislative
meeting with state representatives and senators.
These meetings and consultations involve some of the most
consequential issues facing our
tribe, including treaty rights,
sovereignty, litigation, federal
and state policy, and our government-to-government relationships. They also require extensive preparation to ensure that
we are informed and prepared to
advocate effectively for our citizens. These opportunities are not
limited to the chairman or vice
chairperson. Board members can
participate and become engaged
in this work as well.
That is why I cast my
tie-breaking vote for Tyler
LaPlaunt. Tyler and I do not
always agree, but when it comes
to this work, he has consistently been willing to roll up his
sleeves, prepare, participate, and
advocate for the tribe. Director
Sorenson is entitled to disagree
with the board’s decision.
However, suggesting that the
board’s vote was motivated by
gender is not accurate, appropriate, or fair.
Enjoy the remaining summer
I hope everyone enjoys the
remaining weeks of summer. It
has been a pleasure spending
time with so many of our tribal
citizens, elders, employees, and
families at our powwows, elder
picnics, employee appreciation
events, and other gatherings
throughout our communities.
These events are always a
great reminder that one of the
best parts of serving as chairman
is simply having the opportunity
to visit with our people. I hope
everyone has a safe and enjoyable remainder of the summer,
and I look forward to seeing
many of you at upcoming tribal
events.
Tribal leaders from the 12 tribes across Michigan came together at Bay Mills Indian Community Aug. 11 to discuss opposition to Line 5.
Page 22
Representative Reports
August 19, 2026 • Win Awenen Nisitotung
Barbeau reports on Unit 4 meetings and events
LARRY BARBEAU,
DIRECTOR, UNIT IV
Aaniin,
I hope everyone is having a
wonderful Aug. and enjoying
the final weeks of summer. Aug.
has continued to bring opportunities for our tribal members
and staff to spend time with
loved ones, participate in community events, and enjoy the
beauty of the summer season.
We hope many of our families
have had the opportunity to
attend and enjoy the many Pow
Wows taking place throughout
the summer, celebrating our culture, traditions, and community
together. As we move toward
the end of summer and prepare
for the fall season, I want to
wish everyone a safe, enjoyable,
and memorable remainder of
August. Miigwech to everyone
who continues to contribute to
and strengthen our community.
Upcoming meetings for the
month (subject to change)
We have a few scheduled meetings coming up for
the months of August and
September; including, board
workshops and meetings (one
in Munising), JKLFC meetings,
Kewadin Gaming Authority
meetings, Enterprise Authority
meetings, Conservation
Committee meetings, etc.
Aug. 4 – Board workshop at 10 a.m. and the board
meeting starting at 5 p.m. in
the Whitefish Point Room at
Kewadin Casinos, Sault Ste.
Marie.
Aug. 11 – Board workshop/
JKLFC meeting starting at 9
a.m. in the Whitefish Point
Room at Kewadin Casinos,
Sault Ste. Marie.
Aug. 17 - Conservation
Committee meeting starting at
5 p.m. in the Whitefish Point
Room at Kewadin Casinos,
Sault Ste. Marie.
Aug. 18 – Board workshop/
Enterprise Authority meeting
starting at 9 a.m. and the board
meeting starting at 5 p.m. in
the Whitefish Point Room at
Kewadin Casinos, Sault Ste.
Marie.
Aug. 25 – Board workshop/
KGA meeting starting at 9 a.m.
in the Whitefish Point Room
at Kewadin Casinos, Sault Ste.
Marie.
Sept. 1 – Board workshop at 10 a.m. and the board
meeting starting at 5 p.m. in
the Whitefish Point Room at
Kewadin Casinos, Sault Ste.
Marie.
Sept. 8 – Board workshop/
JKLFC meeting starting at
9 a.m. and the board meeting starting at 5 p.m. in the
Whitefish Point Room at
Kewadin Casinos, Sault Ste.
Marie.
Sept. 15 – Board workshop/
Enterprise Authority meeting
starting at 9 a.m. and the board
meeting starting at 5 p.m. in
the Whitefish Point Room at
Kewadin Casinos, Sault Ste.
Marie.
Sept. 21 - Conservation
Committee meeting starting at
5 p.m. in the Whitefish Point
Room at Kewadin Casinos,
Sault Ste. Marie.
Sept. 22 – Board workshop/
KGA meeting starting at 9 a.m.
and the Board meeting starting
at 5 p.m. in the Whitefish Point
Room at Kewadin Casinos,
Sault Ste. Marie.
Unit 4 Elder Meetings
We encourage all tribal
elders to attend the elder meetings. The next meetings in
Manistique will be held Aug.
12 and Sept. 9 at 12 p.m. EST
at the Manistique Tribal Center.
The next meetings in Escanaba
will be held Aug. 12 and Sept.
9 at 5 p.m. EST at the Escanaba
Community Center. The Elder
Advisory meetings are Aug. 21
and Sept. 18 at 1 p.m. EST at
the Newberry Tribal Center.
Contact information
Larry Barbeau, Unit 4
Representative. Phone (906)
259-3040. Email:lbarbeau@
saulttribe.net.
As we move into Aug. and
look ahead to September, I
encourage Unit 4 members to
stay engaged and connected
with our tribal community.
This time of year, brings many
opportunities to attend meetings,
take part in community events,
and participate in cultural activities. Your involvement helps
keep our community strong and
ensures that the voices, ideas,
and priorities of our members
continue to be heard. Please
continue to reach out with any
questions, concerns, or suggestions, as your feedback is an
important part of the work we
do. Miigwech for your continued support and involvement. I
wish everyone a safe and enjoyable August and a positive start
to the fall season.
BRIDGETT SORENSON,
DIRECTOR, UNIT III
The entire board traveled to
the Lansing meeting with our
executive staff. Cody Jodoin and
Kevin Leonard did an excellent
job of coordinating space at
MSU to host dinner and a cultural expo with dancers and drummers from the area. There was
about 100 at-large members in
attendance for a traditional meal.
The guests also received bison.
We held a workshop and
meeting the next day. There
were maybe a dozen members
that came for the community
meeting. I think it is important
to meet with members downstate
but will always advocate against
a meeting vs. a Q&A. We could
have combined the dinner with
a Q&A and just had one day of
expenses. As always, it is nice
to meet people that we may hear
from but never see in person.
Thanks to all who took the time
to drive over to Lansing to spend
time with us.
On July 28, we held our
weekly workshop where we
discussed many issues and then
attended the groundbreaking at
Odenaang for the 20-unit apartment complex. It will be a beautiful building and I hope we can
eventually build one in each unit.
There is a huge need for single
or couples for housing.
At the Aug. 4 board meeting,
the chair was gone to Idaho with
the ACFS Director and the vice
chair was on a family vacation.
Once again, they tried to have a
man chair the meeting, Mike as
treasurer, but Ashley as secretary
comes first. Mike knows this and
supported that role. Ashley did
chair the workshop and meeting
and did a great job.
Topics discussed during
the day were proposed 2027
Schedule A budgets, which did
not include Health. These budgets are just shy of $12 million
and include about $540,000 of
tribal support (means funding is
from the casinos and businesses).
We met with the Health CEO,
which included staffing shortages and recruitment/retention
efforts. We were introduced to
the new chief judge and staff
attorney which are both Sault
Tribe women. On the agenda
was also the Constitution.
Our General Counsel Ryan
Mills went through the timeline of completion by Dec. 25,
2026, for the vote. The BIA
had asked for a 90-day extension. The chief judge did stay
for the Constitution discussion
as well as the new magistrate
(worked as a Sault Tribe officer
for 18 years). There were many
concerns with the timeline.
Apparently, the date the vote
is tallied, the three-branches
will go into effect even if codes
are not in place. There is an
18-month period to get all codes
in place following the vote.
The board is going to start
meeting every Monday afternoon
to discuss the codes. A few of us
have asked for a resolution to be
written so that the board as well
as the court can have their own
attorneys during this process.
The Legal Department would
rather they do all the work until
the official split where the Legal
Department will fall under the
executive branch. Many of us
believe we each need our own
representation to comb through
these codes.
As I have been saying for the
past year, I DO NOT support a
three-branch government. We
had decided a year ago to have
reviews of each branch so we
could have member input on
what the best structure is for our
tribe. The three branches were
put together and legal did not
bring the two-branch structure
forward. I believe if we were
doing our due diligence, both
structures would have thoroughly
been discussed and vetted, and
we should have had discussions
with other tribes on their pros
and cons with their structures.
Yes, the members did poll for
a three-branch government
but they didn’t have the proposed document and see what
this board or actually the prior
election board agreed on. This
was pushed forward due to the
election and trying to push their
agenda. The power-hungry board
and chair are the ones that are
pushing this so hard.
Essentially, the current board
of directors will become tribal
council and pass laws and budgets. So, when members who are
used to contacting board members with concerns or employment, housing, programs or services, the board member will not
be able to do much other than
refer that person to the division
as we will no longer be in their
chain of command. The chair
will have control over all the
government divisions. Like it or
not, members are used to being
able to contact their board rep
when they feel they aren’t being
heard or need an advocate. I am
trying to be blunt about what
members can expect. Frankly,
even if I held the chair position,
I would rather have 12 other
people weighing in on things
rather than one person.
At least now if you feel like
you can’t talk to one director,
you could contact another one.
In this case, it will only be one
person. I am also sure that those
board or council members that
the chair likes will have advan-
tages.
We recently were made aware
of the Chair working with a family on the donation of an island in
Les Cheneaux called Lone Susan.
It apparently has a rustic cabin on
a small piece of land. The tribe
voted in Lansing to accept this
donation. We were not provided
if we will be able to put this land
into trust or what the taxes may
be under a new owner. You may
only be able to access by canoe
or kayak, too. It seems that he is
all about buying any land that he
can hunt on. He mentioned at the
groundbreaking to other board
members about opening up some
hunting on Odenaag. He has also
admitted he has cameras on many
pieces of land the tribe owns. I
am not sure if that also applies
to all members if they wish to do
the same or not. Sometimes I see
these as benefits to the individual but, hey, I’ll donate ya some
meat.
I have also requested the
board have a workshop with
Enrollment in regards to the
Garden River Church records in
regard to those that only can tie
to that document for Enrollment
when no other church records
are solely being used. Last
September, the general counsel
advised us that didn’t comply
with the Constitution.
The Savard housing infrastructure project is coming
along nicely. It is so big since it
was cleared. What a blessing to
have in our community. I do not
recall such a project since the St.
Ignace Rez was built. Fingers
crossed we get grant funding to
build units for 2027.
I had an elder reach out to me
a few months ago about planter
boxes that the residents at the
elder complex were provided last
year and if those who lived at
another complex could get one.
I am sorry that this process has
taken so long but I am told they
will be accepting applications to
be able to provide these for next
year through Community Health.
Some of the approved resolutions at the Aug. 4 meeting were
naming the new fitness/activity
center in Hessel after a bear cub,
adopting a dock policy for tribally owned docks and amending
Tribal Code Chapter 21 with
some season changes, bag limits
and furbearers providing a lower
jaw instead of a full skull.
We approved a budget modification to use some opioid settlement funds to help the ACFS
division with ICWA funding.
They told us they have about
500 cases a year in 23 states and
32 counties. That is a lot of work
and dedication in protecting our
children!
We have changed the date
of the Elder Unit 3 Picnic to
Wednesday, Sept. 9 at the Elder
Complex beginning at 11:30 a.m.
We will be having lots of good
food and Bingo as well as possibly some music.
The Rendezvous at the Straits
Powwow will be held at the
Little Bear Arena on Aug. 28-29.
Grand Entry will take place on
both days at 12 p.m. There will
also be a Paddle for the Future
rally on Aug. 29 at Kiwanis
Beach from 9 a.m.-12 p.m. We
will also be having a community
basket workshop on Aug. 26-29
at the Ojibwa Museum from 12
to 6 p.m. daily.
Sue and I will be holding a
Unit 3 Q&A with refreshments
on Monday, Sept. 21, at 7-8 p.m.
at the McCann School. We plan
to meet monthly on the third
Monday of the month unless our
tribal schedule conflicts.
Please do not hesitate to reach
out to me with any questions or
concerns at bsorenson@saulttribe.net, bridgett91@yahoo.com
or (906) 430-0536.
Anyone in St. Ignace that has
a child 3 or 4 years old, please
consider enrolling them in the
tribe’s Head Start program so
they can learn some of our culture and language. There is a bus
driver for transportation as that
has been an issue in the past.
Sorenson reports on board meeting, Unit 3 events
August 19, 2026 • Win Awenen Nisitotung
Representative Reports
Director Gravelle reports on new board role
Page 23
ASHLEY GRAVELLE
DIRECTOR, UNIT 1
Dear Tribal Citizens,
It is hard to believe that my
first month as a member of the
board of directors has already
gone by. I wanted to take a
few moments to share some of
what I have been working on
and to thank all of you for your
kindness, encouragement, and
patience as I settle into this new
role.
On July 6, 2026, I was officially sworn in as a member of
the board of directors. During
our first official meeting, we
elected our officers. Director
Tyler Laplaunt was elected vice
chair, Mike McKerchie was
elected treasurer, and I was truly
honored to be elected secretary.
Thank you to my fellow board
members for trusting me to
serve in this capacity.
The following day, we held
our first workshop and board
meeting. Since then, every
week has been filled with workshops, meetings, studying our
Constitution and Tribal Code,
answering emails and phone
calls, listening to our membership, and learning something
new every day.
One of the first things I wanted to do was visit several of our
tribal departments and introduce
myself. It was important to me
to begin building relationships
with the people who work so
hard every day to serve our
tribe. I have also spent many
hours reviewing board packets, researching agenda items,
and comparing them with our
Constitution and Tribal Code so
that I can make informed decisions.
I have also had the opportunity to help with Feeding America,
attend our Conservation
Committee meetings, participate in Board Orientation, and
learn more about the work each
department does. I attended
the Purchasing Department bid
openings, worked alongside
Director McRorie and our Legal
Department on a future resolu-
tion we hope to bring forward.
One meeting that especially
inspired me was with Director
McRorie and a tribal citizen
who shared ideas about preserving and teaching our traditional
language. Their passion was
contagious, and it reminded
me how much knowledge and
wisdom exists within our own
people.
I also had the privilege of
traveling to Lansing for the
Drum & Dance Exposition and
Dinner Gathering. The event
was beautifully organized, and it
was wonderful seeing so many
people come together. After
one of our board meetings, we
also held a question-and-answer
session with tribal citizens. I
truly enjoyed hearing everyone’s
thoughts, concerns, and ideas.
Those conversations are important, and I appreciate everyone
who takes the time to share
them.
One of my favorite experiences this month was spending
time with a couple of our elders
listening to their thoughts and
ideas and receiving teachings
from them. This meant more to
me than I can put into words. I
also attended the Unit 1 Elders
Subcommittee meeting and
appreciated hearing their questions and concerns.
I am excited to see the Unit 1
monthly tribal citizen meetings
begin again and hope many of
you will be able to attend.
Throughout the month I
also helped weed the Elders
Community Garden alongside
Chairperson Lowes and Director
McRorie.
On Aug. 4, I had the opportunity to chair my first board
meeting. I will admit I was
nervous, but I am incredibly
grateful for our staff and my fellow board members, who were
supportive throughout the day. It
was a learning experience I will
never forget.
There are many important projects currently moving
forward. The board continues
working on water protection and
preparations are underway for
the next phase of construction at
Kewadin Casino.
I know this update only
touches on a small portion of
what has been happening during
the past month, but I wanted
you to know that I have been
working hard to learn this position and serve you to the best of
my ability.
I also want to be honest with
all of you. Before becoming
a board member, I was sometimes one of the people who
was critical of the board. Now
that I have had the opportunity
to sit in this seat, I have gained
a much deeper appreciation for
just how much work goes into
serving our tribe. That doesn’t
mean we always get everything
right, but I have seen firsthand
the amount of time, preparation,
and dedication that goes into
every meeting and every decision.
Most importantly, I want
you to know that I value hearing from you. Sometimes the
conversations are difficult, and
sometimes feedback is hard to
hear, but I believe constructive
feedback helps us become stronger and mindful. I will always
do my best to listen with an
open mind and an open heart.
If you would like to meet,
visit, or simply share your
thoughts, please reach out to
me via (906) 203-5160. I would
be more than happy to sit down
with you.
Thank you again for your
trust, your support, your prayers,
and your encouragement as I
continue learning and growing
in this role. It is an honor to
serve our tribe, and I look forward to working together for the
good of our people.
Miigwech,
Ashley Gravelle
Unit 1 Board of Directors
collaboration with local, state,
and federal organizations, a new
trail system is being established.
This will allow ATV/UTV and
snowmobiles to travel from
Manistique to the casino, and
even provide easier access to
Sault Ste. Marie and St. Ignace.
This new trail will also benefit future campground visitors
and outdoor enthusiasts. Chi
Miigwech to everyone involved
in making this vision a reality.
Protecting our waters: Line
5 update
The Michigan Supreme Court
ruled 6-1 against the state permit for Enbridge’s proposed
Line 5 and sent the matter back
to the Michigan Public Service
Commission for further review.
This is an important step in protecting our treaty rights, water,
and identity. Our Chairman,
Board of Directors, and legal
counsel continue to work with
other tribes and government
agencies for a lasting solution. Each unit has contributed
$3,000 to support this fight.
Please join us at the Water
Ceremony Rally in St. Ignace at
Kiwanis Beach on Aug. 29 from
9 a.m. to noon as we advocate
for our waters.
Three-branch government
progress
Work continues with the BIA
on the secretarial election for
our three-branch government.
As the largest such election east
of the Mississippi, we are taking
every step to ensure a fair and
efficient process. Updates will
be shared as they’re available.
Cultural events ahead
Watch for upcoming events—
including ribbon skirt, mitten,
and flute workshops, as well
as community potlucks and craft
nights. Flyers will be posted
soon. For details, reach out to
our Cultural Coordinator, Kelly
Tovar.
A New School Year
To our children heading back
to school: I wish you a safe,
successful, and inspiring year.
To the parents, grandparents,
teachers, and staff who support
our youth—Miigwech for your
encouragement, patience, and
guidance. Keep a lookout for the
Unit 4 Y.E.A after-school pro-
grams!
If you have questions or
concerns, please contact Unit 4
Liaison Mary Jenerou or me. We
are here for you.
Chi Miigwech!
Cole Goudreau
cgoudreau@saulttribe.net
(906) 286-2966
Mary Jenerou (Unit 4 Liaison):
mjenerou@saulttribe.net (906)
450-7011
Kelly Tovar (Cultural
Coordinator): ktovar@saulttribe.
net (906) 399-2308
COLE GOUDREAU
DIRECTOR, UNIT IV
Aanii Unit 4 Members,
As summer winds down and
our children prepare to return to
school, I’m honored to reflect
on a month of progress, partnership, and gratitude within
our Unit 4 community. Stepping
into this role has been a meaningful journey—I’m still getting
my feet wet, but I’m inspired by
the dedication I see every day.
Fair fun for our children
Director Barbeau and I are
excited to share that we’ve
secured wristbands for Unit 4
children to attend the UP State
Fair on Thursday, Aug. 20,
during Honored Citizen Day.
We hope our youth enjoy this
special day before heading back
to school. Supporting memorable experiences for our children
is always a priority.
Welcome, Krystal
Goudreau NP!
We’re thrilled to welcome
Krystal Goudreau to the
Manistique Tribal Health Center
as a Nurse Practitioner. Krystal
is a local to Manistique and a
Sault Tribe member. She previously served in the Health
Division as an RN, then furthered her education to become
a primary care provider serving
our community. Her expertise
and commitment to our members make a significant difference, and we look forward to all
she will continue to accomplish.
Celebrating our team
This month, Unit 4 hosted the
Kewadin Casino, Governmental,
and Health Picnic—a wonderful
opportunity to show gratitude to
our dedicated employees.
No matter the role you provide within the tribe, your hard
work and sacrifice are deeply
appreciated. Seeing so many
long-term employees in our
facilities is a testament to your
commitment. Please join me in
thanking our team for being first
in class!
Honoring our elders
Both Manistique and
Escanaba elders enjoyed their
summer picnics—a time to
connect, celebrate, and plan for
the months ahead. I am continually humbled by our elders’
leadership. Their wisdom, love,
bravery, respect, honor, humility, and truth guide us all. Chi
Miigwech for your ongoing support!
Manistique Elders Bingo
I’m excited to report that
Manistique Elders Bingo continues to grow, now boasting
40 participants. This success is
thanks to our dedicated elders
who organize and coordinate
the event. Your enthusiasm and
hard work are making a real
impact—keep it up!
Expanding trail access
Thanks to the tireless efforts
of Kewadin Casino General
Manager Wanda Barbeau and
Goudreau on listening, leading, following up
Page 24
Representative Reports
August 19, 2026 • Win Awenen Nisitotung
Lee gives Line 5 update, reviews Unit 2 events
KIMBERLY LEE,
DIRECTOR, UNIT II
Aanii,
I hope everyone is enjoying the last stretch of summer
and finding time to spend with
family, friends, and community.
August is a busy month across
Unit 2, with several opportunities to gather, celebrate, and stay
connected. I want to share a few
important updates, upcoming
events, and opportunities for our
members to gather.
Line 5 Update
Line 5 remains a strong and
important issue for our tribe,
our communities, and the future
of the Great Lakes. The proposed tunnel under the Straits of
Mackinac is about much more
than just a pipeline. It involves
our water, our treaty rights, our
culture, our ancestors, and what
we want to leave behind for generations to come.
In addition to those concerns,
it is deeply troubling to consider how this project could affect
places that hold cultural significance, including burial sites
and other historic and sacred
locations. Disturbing the places
where our ancestors are laid to
rest is not simply a construction
issue. These sites carry deep cultural and spiritual significance
and deserve to be treated with the
utmost respect and care.
I know our members have
different views on Line 5 and the
proposed tunnel, and those perspectives deserve to be heard. But
no matter where someone stands
on the project itself, tribal nations
need to have a real and meaningful voice when decisions could
impact our treaty waters, cultural
sites, and the resting places of our
ancestors.
The Straits have held significance for Anishinaabe people
long before pipelines or state
borders came into existence.
Protecting these waters and culturally significant places is part
of our responsibility to those who
came before us and to those who
will come after us.
As we move forward, I will
continue listening to our members, advocating for our treaty
rights, and pushing for meaningful government-to-government
consultation. Progress should not
come at the expense of our ancestors, our culture, or our responsibility to safeguard the lands and
waters that have supported our
people for generations.
There will be a Paddle for the
Future event on Saturday, Aug.
29, 2026, from 9 a.m. to noon at
Kiwanis Beach in St. Ignace. If
you are able, I encourage you to
join. This cause is bigger than
any one person, group, or generation. It is about what together
we choose to protect and leave
behind.
Makoons Community
Wellness Center
The Makoons Community
Wellness Center in Hessel,
located in front of Bear on the
Mountain Golf Course, marks an
important advancement for the
health and well being of our community. It provides a space for
youth, teens, elders, and families
to stay active, connect, and be a
part of a variety of activities that
strengthen our community today
and for future generations.
The center is now open to
tribal members Monday through
Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Plans are also underway to
implement a key fob system for
expanded gym access, along with
future membership opportunities
for the surrounding community.
We invite everyone to join
us for the Grand Opening and
Ribbon Cutting on Aug. 28 from
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Come see the
new space, celebrate this exciting addition to our community,
and learn more about what the
Makoons Community Wellness
Center has to offer.
I hope to see you there!
A chi miigwech to everyone
who helped make this a reality.
This space represents what can
happen when we continue investing in our people, our families,
and the future of our communities
in a positive way. Only together
can we achieve good things for
our people.
Unit 2 Elder Picnics
We are looking forward to
spending some quality time with
our Unit 2 elders at this year’s
Elder Picnics. These gatherings
are always a wonderful way to
come together, enjoy a meal, visit
with one another, and be reminded of what makes our communities so special.
This year’s Unit 2 Elder
Picnics will be held throughout
our area:
Naubinway: Wednesday, Aug.
26 at 5:30 p.m.
Hessel: Thursday, Aug. 27, at
11:30 a.m.
Newberry: Friday, Aug. 28, at
11 a.m.
Our Elders hold the most
important place within our communities, carrying knowledge,
stories, experiences, and traditions that continue to guide us
for generations to come. Creating
opportunities to gather, share a
meal, laugh, visit, and simply
enjoy each other’s company is
vital
I hope to see many of you at
this year’s picnics. There is nothing like a few days of good food,
great conversation, and time spent
together.
As summer begins to wind
down, I am grateful for every
opportunity we have to come
together as a community.
Whether we are protecting the
waters and places that have sustained our people for generations,
creating new spaces for our families to thrive, or sitting down to
share a meal with our elders, each
of these efforts is connected by
the same responsibility. To honor
who we are, where we come from
while building something meaningful for those who come after
us.
Chi miigwech to members,
staff, volunteers, elders, and community members who continue to
show up, lend a hand, share their
voices, and care for one another.
I look forward to seeing many
of you at the upcoming events
throughout the month. As always,
please continue to reach out, ask
questions, share your concerns,
and stay involved. Our communities are strongest when we work
together.
Kimberly Lee
Unit 2 Director
klee@saulttribe.net
(906) 379-8965
were here and, if we honor our
responsibilities, will exist long
after we are gone.
That is why the discussions
surrounding the proposed Line 5
tunnel project under the Straits of
Mackinac matter so deeply to me.
When I think about Line 5, I do
not just think about a project on a
map. I think about home, responsibility, and what it means to care
for a place that has sustained our
people for generations.
But Line 5 is only one of the
many challenges facing our Great
Lakes. We are witnessing increasing industrial development along
our shores, as well as multiple
proposals for large scale data centers and the water demands that
come with those. There are also
concerns about water withdrawals
and diversion efforts, pollution,
invasive species, and the impacts
of a changing climate. Clearly,
protecting our freshwater is not
about responding to one project
at a time. We must recognize that
the overall health of the Great
Lakes is connected to the health
and future of our people.
The status of our whitefish
populations is also concerning.
For generations, whitefish have
sustained our people physically,
culturally, and spiritually. Today,
declining populations, changing
lake conditions, invasive species,
and habitat loss are placing this
treasured relative under increasing and extreme pressure. When
our whitefish are struggling, it
should be a grave reminder to
us that the health of our waters
and the health of our people are
inseparable.
Caring for the water has never
been simply an environmental
issue. It is a sacred responsibility.
The health of our lakes is reflected in the health of our fish, wildlife, communities, and future.
A responsibility we all carry
I also want to speak directly
to our tribal citizens who may
work for Enbridge, whose families depend on jobs connected
to the pipeline, or who believe
that a Line 5 tunnel is the best
path forward. I understand that
these issues are not always simple. Jobs matter. Families matter.
Economic security matters. We
can disagree about projects and
still recognize one another as
relatives. My plea is not to turn
against one another. Rather, it is
for us to remember who we are.
Before we are employees,
workers, contractors, advocates,
or supporters of any particular
project, we are Anishinaabe people. Our relationship with Nibi
and Aki carries responsibilities
older than any corporation, pipeline, political administration, or
economic opportunity. I ask our
relatives who support Line 5, or
who work for Enbridge, to consider that relationship with an
open heart.
What would our ancestors ask
of us? What would we tell our
grandchildren if the waters were
harmed? What responsibility do
we carry for the relatives who
cannot speak for themselves—the
fish, birds, plants, and water?
This is not about questioning
anyone’s loyalty to their family
or community. It is about remembering that our responsibilities
extend beyond this moment.
A job can provide for a family
today, but the water must sustain
our people tomorrow and for gen-
erations we will never meet.
These threats to our freshwater
are bigger than any one project,
tribe, or community. No nation
should have to carry this responsibility alone, but none of us can
afford to step away from it. We
should be able to have these difficult conversations without anger
or shame, and without forgetting
our kinship. I believe we have an
opportunity and an obligation to
bring our people together around
the threats facing our waters, our
way of life, and our communities.
We need our tribal leaders
together.
We need our elders’ wisdom
and vision.
We need our youth at the table.
We need our communities
connected, because the water has
always connected us.
I believe this is a moment for
unity among tribal nations and
Indigenous communities throughout the Great Lakes region. We
are stronger when we stand
beside one another, share knowledge, lift up one another’s voices,
and work together to protect the
waters that connect us all. Our
connections to the water may be
different, but our responsibility is
shared. We inherited this responsibility from those who came
before us, and now it is ours to
carry for those who come after
us.
We have to ask ourselves what
we want to be able to tell those
generations. I do not want to tell
them that we saw this moment
coming and simply hoped someone else would act. I want to tell
them that we listened. That we
stood together. That we remembered who we are. I want them to
know the taste of fresh whitefish.
I want them to hear the sound
of paddles crossing the Straits. I
want them to know the teachings,
stories, and relationships that
have connected our people to
these waters since time immemorial.
That is what the seven generations means to me. It is a reminder that our decisions today reach
far beyond our own lives. We are
caretakers for those who came
before us and for those who have
not yet arrived. This is why we
are gathering and would like to
invite you to gather with us.
Please join us for Paddle Out
for the Future. It is a peaceful
gathering to honor and protect the
waters of the Straits of Mackinac.
It is an opportunity to come
together in solidarity, strengthen
our relationships, and remind one
another that we do not have to
face these challenges alone.
Paddle Out for the Future
Saturday, Aug. 29
9 a.m. – Noon
Kiwanis Beach
St. Ignace, Mich.
Bring your kayak, canoe, or
paddle board, or come and stand
in solidarity with us and the
water. Everyone is welcome.
The Rendezvous at the Straits
Water Protectors Powwow will
directly follow, with Grand Entry
scheduled for 1 p.m. on Aug. 29.
The water has always connected us. May it now call us to stand
together. For the water. For our
communities. For our ancestors.
For the generations yet to come.
For the next seven generations.
I hope to see you there.
Chi Miigwech,
Sue St. Onge
Standing together for the water: Paddle out for the future
SUE ST. ONGE
DIRECTOR, UNIT III
As I write this unit report, I
find myself looking out across the
Straits of Mackinac. I am reminded how fortunate I am to call this
beautiful place home. I often tell
people that it was Nibi and Aki
that called me back. I am grateful
every day for the privilege to live
here and I understand that with
that privilege comes great responsibility. For me, that responsibility begins with the water.
As Anishinaabe people, we
have always understood that we
are not separate from the water.
We are part of a relationship with
it. We did not create that relationship, and we do not have the right
to walk away from it. The waters
are not an abstract idea to me.
They are outside my door. They
are the waters our children swim
in and the waters that have carried our stories, teachings, food,
medicines, and prayers for generations. The Straits do not belong
to one person or one place. They
are part of a relationship that
existed long before any of us
August 19, 2026 • Win Awenen Nisitotung
Representative Reports
Page 25
No king(s) on the rez! Support a three-branch gov’t
HEALTHY NEW FOCUS
With a longer-term journey
back to good health expected, I’ve
decided to shift my focus and my
approach to the positive in order to
manifest healing for me personally
and for our tribe as we evolve to a
more responsible and lasting form
of government with the impending three-branch separation of
powers vote. While the timeline
is a little delayed, YOU MUST
STILL REGISTER TO VOTE if
you want your voice heard. I know
with confidence that if tribal voters register to vote and vote, we
will cross the threshold like many
other modern tribal governments
with a three-branch separation of
powers steeped with the underpinnings of our traditional egalitarian
governance.
While some are still working
to sabotage a three-branch, they
do so at their own peril as those
who are campaigning against what
the people want have lost significant numbers of votes in the last
several elections. See for yourself
in past editions of the Sault Tribe
News online. One incumbent is
getting just over half the votes he/
she once got. Not listening to the
people when all units and at large
polled for a three-branch in a landslide, will undoubtedly result in
losing your seat. I’ll stop there to
keep it positive; there can be nothing more positive than to listen the
people, and vote accordingly.
“BLAME THE CHAIR” NO
LONGER WORKS
Over the years, I have grown
used to the “blame the chair”
approach to shift responsibility from the tribal board table.
Recently, I heard the argument
that under the new three-branch
government that we will end up
with a dictator as ogema (chair)
who will have unchecked power to
fire people. This is what we have
now but with the board as the
unitary one-branch government. In
political science, this is called an
“oligarchy” or “dictatorship” and
is our current form of government
under a federal government forced
corporate charter with a board and
chair rather than an ogema and
tribal council. Currently, key team
members report to the tribal board
and have no due process or labor
protections. All team members
should have these protections.
ENACTING TRIBAL
LABOR LAW
With the three-branch separation of powers impending, the
next big initiative is enacting
tribal labor law to protect all team
members in tribal government
programs and services, enterprises and gaming. With the new
Constitution, you and I will have
the right to initiate such reforms
so the people can vote to approve.
Justification: Prior to 1998, no
such grievance or appeal procedures existed in our tribe. Another
board member [who worked outside of the tribe] and I pushed to
create our appeal policy. At the
time, management willfully fired
about one-third of our employees
annually which cost us an exorbitant $3 million annually in unemployment just for the discretion to
fire our own people without due
process for grievances. In 1998,
I collaborated with an attorney in
tribal legal to write our grievance
and appeal procedures. This was
the best we could do at the time
but it is just not good enough to
protect your job. In 2008, right
after I left office for four years,
the then-board voted to suspend
all team members appeal rights.
The appeal rights and procedures remained suspended for
the full four years I was out of
office. FOUR YEARS! We need
to enact tribal labor laws that do
not depend on who is in elective
office. I acknowledge that some
layoffs had to occur given the
financial crisis then, but four years
with no labor rights is extreme.
This happened which means it can
easily happen again under our onebranch or two-branch government.
Whether you get your job back
should not depend on the board.
In one case, a department direc-
tor physically assaulted a tribal
woman team member. I saw the
pictures of her battered face. The
case was so serious that the local
prosecutor requested the state AG
assign a special prosecutor. Then
the assailant repeatedly called and
harassed the victim and threaten
her job and her family members’
jobs. This was brought to me by
tribal Legal and HR with the justification to terminate the assailant
so I recommended to the board
to fire him. Because of politics,
just the opposite happened and
10 board members voted to let
the alleged woman beater keep
his job. Shortly after returning to
work, he fired the victim’s father.
Right now, whether or not you get
fired or have appeal rights should
not be left the discretion of the
board or chair. It should be the
law.
A LEGAL RIGHT TO
YOUR JOB!
Over the next several months,
I will be gathering support for
enactment of tribal labor law that
guarantees you your right to your
job if you show up and do a good
job. I also support certain management decisions being subject
to grievances like raises or promotions. While nepotism is no longer
as prominent as it once was, cronyism and favoritism remain and
deny you a fair shot. I envision
these decisions being governed by
administrative law with a right to
appeal up to an administrative law
judge and ultimately to an independent judicial branch. My first
master’s was in public administration, which is a degree to learn
the Administrative Procedures
Act and public personnel management. I have been advocating for
labor protections my entire career.
If you support this movement,
please contact me to lend a hand.
I am still focusing on healing and
positive thinking in order to fully
heal from cancer but I still need
to do my job to protect our members and team members. I know
there are a few board members
who will support this movement.
Please resist when certain other
board members try to sabotage
this effort. The only thing they can
say is…“Trust me, I’ll get you that
promotion or your job back.”
Whether or not you have a job
should not be based on patronage
that depends on kissing up to
politicians. Did you know board
members serve on the termination
appeals board? I’ve seen board
members exercise retribution in
the decisions on whether or not to
reinstate team members. It should
be your right and not the discretion of the board. Stay tuned as
this will be my first tribal citizen
initiated constitutional amendment after we vote to establish a
three-branch separation of powers. By the way, without a threebranch vote, neither you nor I as
citizens have any rights to initiate
such positive reforms like tribal
labor law. This is why this is so
critical to our future as a real and
true sovereign tribal government
which depends on a three-branch
separation of powers.
JKL HIGH SCHOOL $1.5M
VOTE
While I am grateful for the
vote to appropriate $1.5 million
from the JKL Fund Balance (previously known as the building
fund), I want to make clear this is
precisely what the funds are for.
Voting to follow through on what
you told us you wanted via poll
in 1993 and the board voted on
in 1996 — namely a K-12 school
system — is what we have said
all along. I thank the board for
KIM GRAVELLE,
DIRECTOR, UNIT I
Aaniin,
I hope everyone is enjoying
the warm weather. Soon enough
school will be back in session!
I would like to speak on the
separation of powers again. I
know I did a unit report in the
past about this issue but would
like to do a reminder of how I
feel. I was in support of sending
out our Constitution to the membership for its decision. The following is some of my thoughts.
Which form of government is
the best for us? I have held fast
on supporting a two-branch separation of powers. A two branch
will keep the courts/judicial separate from the legislative branch
and will give the membership the
right to file suit against the legislative branch. It still has measures
in place for the membership to
challenge decisions that may be
put in place.
With the way the draft
Constitution is written, the three
branch would be adding an executive branch and the chairman/
ogema would have oversite over
our governmental services and
no longer sit at the Board of
Directors (BOD) table. The BOD
would appoint a speaker from the
elected representatives to run the
meetings.
In 2010, the membership voted
to remove the chairman as Chief
Executive Officer (CEO). Putting
the chairman/ogema back as CEO
is a step back. No one person
should have this kind of control.
We have directors in these positions and they do a good job.
No one elected official should
be running departments we have
experienced directors for. A twobranch separation would do the
same as a three branch and would
not reverse what the membership
put in place.
When the surveys were sent to
the membership the constitutional
draft was not attached, therefore,
our membership made a decision without seeing the actual
document. A copy of the draft
Constitution is available on our
website; please read it carefully
before making your decision.
On another note, our Natural
Resource Department (NDR)
received a grant it is coordinating
with federal USDA revenue to
do a challenge cost share project. This funding will leverage
existing relationships, build partnerships, and share knowledge
in development of actionable,
integrated science to manage
and restore lowland ecological
systems. This will lead to the
completion of the cedar cost
AARON PAYMENT
DIRECTOR, UNIT I
voting on what we said we would
do. My hope going forward is
that some don’t slow the progress such that we don’t open our
doors in 2027 or at all. A tribal
board election is always around
the corner and Unit 1 members
have made clear they expect us
to follow through. We currently educate the majority of K-8
grade Sault Tribe members in the
district at JKL. It does not make
sense for us to do all this prep
to allow them to enter a system
after 8th grade where the Native
American drop out rate remains
the worst of all students. Yes,
there have been improvements
but why deny our high school students the academy of excellence
that is JKL.
Next month, I will elaborate
on the recent Line 5 Michigan
Supreme Court ruling and our
tribe’s new or renewed approach
to join the effort to SHUT
DOWN LINE 5.
Tribal Members, please take
care and love yourself, your family and your tribe!
Chi Miigwech,
— Aaron
(906) 440-8946, aapayment@
saulttribe.net
Reasons the tribe needs a two-branch government
share deliverables. The NDR will
collaborate with the U.S. Forest
Service lowland ecological systems and will lead to improved
forest planning and management
as well as strengthen relationships. This project benefits any
Sault Tribe member that depends
on access to lowland ecosystems.
As always, keep the men and
women in the armed forces in
your prayers for a safe return to
their families. I would also like to
thank our team members for their
hard work and continued dedication.
Please feel free to call me
at (906) 259-3742 or email at
kkgravelle@saulttribe.net. Please
leave a message and I will return
your call.
Miigwech,
Kim Gravelle
Page 26
Representative Reports
August 19, 2026 • Win Awenen Nisitotung
LaPlaunt reviews Unit 5 news, events, issues
TYLER LAPLAUNT
DIRECTOR, UNIT V
Aanii, Boozhoo,
August is here, and summer
is already beginning to show us
how quickly the seasons move
in the U.P. These are important
weeks for gathering, harvesting,
powwows, time on the water, and
making memories with family
and community before the cooler
days return.
Late summer also carries an
important reminder. When we
gather berries, medicines, fish,
or other gifts from the land and
water, we are taught to take what
we need, give thanks, offer asemma, and leave enough so that
those gifts will continue for
This text is long and has been trimmed here. Open the source document for the complete record.
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.