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GTB NEWS APRIL 2021

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GTB

NEWS

GTB NEWSLETTER

April / 2021

A publication of the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians All Rights Reserved ©

Ziisabaakadoki / Aagame Giizis (Sugar / Snow Shoe Moon)

GTB EDC Held A Food Drive For The GTB Food Pantry GTB Gaming Employees provided support to the GTB Food Pantry with a pallet of of non-perishable food and personal toiletries. Miigwetch to our EDC Team!

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4

16

20

Chairman’s Article To The Membership

Councilor Kewaygoshkum’s Article To The Membership

COVID-19

Public Safety Updates and Information

GTB NEWS  1


Explore This Month / Chairman’s Letter

April / 2021 Ziisabaakadoki / Aagame Giizis (Sugar / Snow Shoe Moon)

Office of the Tribal Chairman: David Arroyo David M. Arroyo, Tribal Chairman Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians 2605 N. West Bay Shore Drive Peshawbestown, MI 49682-9275

Office: 231-534-7129 Cell: 231-499-2607 Fax: 231-534-7010

Featured Content 4 8 10 12 14 16 20 23

Councilor Article Sap Boiling Elders Calendars Elders Birthdays Caregiver App COVID-19 Public Safety ERAP

nations, please know that your appointment has brought such happiness and hope for our future, and for generations to come. We extend our congratulations in the sincerest way, and we look forward to experiencing all the good you will bring to Indian Country, to the environment, and to our homeland on Mother Earth.” Deb Haaland was confirmed as the nation’s 54th Secretary of the Interior in a 51-40, making her the first Native American to lead a Cabinet agency. A key role of the Interior’s duty is to respectfully manage the government’s federal trust responsibilities promised to tribal nations. She will be leading the most important government agencies affecting Indian Country, such as the Bureau of Indian Affairs and the Bureau of Indian Education. “If an Indigenous woman from humble beginnings can be confirmed as Secretary of the Interior, our country and its promise still holds true for everyone,” Haaland said in her opening statement of her hearing before the Senate energy committee last month. (Retrieved 3/16/21 from: https:// indiancountrytoday.com/news/madam-secretary-deb-haaland) Lands Claim Presentation. We are currently in a holding pattern until key presidential appointments are made and confirmed, and I will keep you posted on the progress of this historic endeavor.

A

anii Booshoo! Spring has sprung, and the awesome month of Boopoogami-giizis (April) is upon us – a time to consider planting a garden and preparing for the upcoming summer months! Indian Civil Rights Act, found in Titles II through VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1968, was enacted on April 11, 1968, and granted Native Americans most of the Bill of Rights protections, with five exceptions: we can hold elections by race as a requirement to vote and run; we can establish a religion; a jury is not required in civil trials; grand jury indictments not required for criminal matters; and court-appointed attorneys are not required in criminal matters. The Fair Housing Act is also found in Titles VIII through IX of the Civil Rights Act of 1968, and it prohibited discrimination in sale, rental, and financing of housing based on race, creed, and national origin. Rep. Deb Haaland’s Appointment as Secretary of the Interior. Confirmed on Monday, March 15th - congratulations Madame Secretary! The following is a copy of our heartfelt letter of congratulations, signed by all Tribal Council – special Chi Miigwetch to Mary Kelley, author: “Dear Secretary Haaland: It is with deep respect that we send you this letter acknowledging your accomplishment in obtaining the title and responsibility of the Secretary of the Interior - the very first for a Native American, and an accomplished Native American woman at that. The tides are turning, and we are here to witness this historical marker that will be a beacon for future generations to aspire to. Now we can say to our own Native American children that dreams can come true - that the struggles from the past, which our ancestors fought through and suffered from, have indeed born such possibilities. We are elated for what has transpired and what is yet to be with this historical confirmation of your appointment! Madam Secretary, with anticipation for what your office now means to the 574 tribal nations that make up one voice in our country, we send you our enthusiasm, our praise, our strength and good wishes for your success, which in turn, will be the success for all Native Americans, the environment, and this land that we love so dearly. As you position yourself within a role that we have no doubt will positively impact all tribal 2  GTB NEWS

FishPass Project. There have been several local news reports on the legal challenge to this important Giigook Mah-jowag (FishPass) Project, which has been delayed until trial that may possibly be held in May of this year. I’ll be providing updates as we move forward in protecting the Ottaway and the restoration of traditional migration routes of native fishes such as the Nmé (sturgeon) and ogaa (walleye), while mitigating impacts of invasive species. COVID Updates. I strongly urge all readers to review the COVID updates that will be provided by Soumit Pendharkar, our Health Director, in this issue of our tribal newsletter. Mr. Pendharkar’s updates will include information provided by Dr. Dwayne Jarman, GTB Tribal Member. Boopoogami-giizis (April) and early Nimebine-giizis (May) 2021 Events. Aki-giizhigad (Earth Day). Aki-giizhigad is on Thursday, April 22nd and the theme this year is “Restore Our Earth.” Every year on April 22, Earth Day marks the anniversary of the birth of the modern environmental movement in 1970, and to commemorate this annual occasion there are numerous virtual projects being held due to the pandemic, including a global climate summit and the inclusion of the recent signing of the Paris Agreement. The Restore Our Earth website https://www. earthday.org/earth-day-2021/ has all kinds of information on how individuals and groups can help Ishkakami-ikwe (Mother Earth), such as through plogging (picking up trash while jogging), saving forests, growing greener, saving bees, supporting youth and so much more. Another website is https://www.earthday.org/earthday-tips/ which has a link to 51 ways people make a difference. Past events GTB held, in partnership with local groups, included beach cleanups to pick up items washed ashore during fall and winter months. As you know, we currently need to honor pandemic protections as we move forward, but there are still things we can all do to protect Ishkakam-itwe! Ngashi-giizhigad (Mother’s Day). On May 9, 2021 wishing all mothers, (great) grandmothers, stepmothers, foster mothers and all other mother figures a Happy Ngashi-giizhigad! It’s always good to show your appreciation by a phone call, a card, sending flowers and/or sending up a prayer for your loved one.


April / 2021 Ziisabaakadoki / Aagame Giizis (Sugar / Snow Shoe Moon) To keep everyone safe, we would like to remind all GTB members and employees to follow safety guidelines and wear a mask if inside a GTB government building, an EDC facility, and/or any tribally owned facility. This is for the protection and safety of our employees and the entire community. It is also critical that Tribal members and community members wear masks in public gatherings, abide by frequent handwashing, and practice social distancing. If you must attend a public gathering, it is imperative that you wear a face mask. Health officials have confirmed that public gatherings are now one of the top causes of outbreaks, and the reason is because mask-wearing and social distancing are not enforced, in some instances. Please follow and practice established safety guidelines. I encourage any and all Tribal Members to contact my office with any questions or concerns. You will get a response. This is my contact information:

Spring Cleanup 2021 Tribal Council Meetings

Tribal Council Meetings are held twice a month: Tribal Council Regular Session - The third Wednesday of each month. Tribal Council Special Session - The last Wednesday of each month. Deadline to TMO by 10:00 a.m. on:

David M. Arroyo, Tribal Chairman Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians 2605 N. West Bay Shore Drive Peshawbestown, MI 49682-9275 Office: 231-534-7129 Cell: 231-499-2607 Fax: 231-534-7010 Baamaapii Kawaabmin

January

TCRS 01/20/21 TCSS 01/27/21

Wednesday Wednesday

9:30 AM 9:30 AM

01/12/21 01/19/21

February

TCRS 02/17/21 TCSS 02/24/21

Wednesday Wednesday

9:30 AM 9:30 AM

02/09/21 02/16/21

March

TCRS 03/17/21 TCSS 03/31/21

Wednesday Wednesday

9:30 AM 9:30 AM

03/09/21 03/23/21

April

TCRS 04/21/21 TCSS 04/28/21

Wednesday Wednesday

9:30 AM 9:30 AM

04/13/21 04/20/21

May

TCRS 05/19/21 TCSS 05/26/21

Wednesday Wednesday

9:30 AM 9:30 AM

05/11/21 05/18/21

June

TCRS 06/16/21 TCSS 06/30/21

Wednesday Wednesday

9:30 AM 9:30 AM

06/08/21 06/22/21

July

TCRS 07/21/21 TCSS 07/28/21

Wednesday Wednesday

9:30 AM 9:30 AM

07/13/21 07/20/21

August

TCRS 08/18/21 TCSS 08/25/21

Wednesday Wednesday

9:30 AM 9:30 AM

08/10/21 08/17/21

September

TCRS 09/15/21 TCSS 09/29/21

Wednesday Wednesday

9:30 AM 9:30 AM

09/07/21 09/21/21

October

TCRS 10/20/21 TCSS 10/27/21

Wednesday Wednesday

9:30 AM 9:30 AM

10/12/21 10/19/21

November

TCRS 11/17/21

Wednesday Wednesday

9:30 AM 9:30 AM

11/09/21 11/16/21

Wednesday Wednesday

9:30 AM 9:30 AM

12/07/21 12/21/21

December

TCSS 11/24/21 TCRS 12/15/21 TCSS 12/29/21

1.7.20

2021 Grand Traverse Band

Spring Clean Up !!!!!!ONE-DAY PICKUP!!!!!!

May 8

GTB Housing & Reservation Areas Only! Peshawbestown, Carlson RD, Benzie Housing, Antrim and Charlevoix Housing

• Once the truck comes through your area between 7:00am – NOON, it WILL NOT RETURN! • You may start hauling refuse curbside starting April 24, 2021! • Extra pick-ups will be the responsibility of the homeowner or renter!

Items the landfill will not accept: Paint Cans, Liquids, Brush & Leaves FOR MORE INFORMATION CALL:

SANDY ANDERSON @ 534-7700 FACILITIES MAINTENANCE

* PLEASE BE KIND BY KEEPING TIRES AND STEEL SEPARATE FROM MAIN REFUSE PILE*

GTB NEWS  3


Councilor’s Update

April / 2021 Ziisabaakadoki / Aagame Giizis (Sugar / Snow Shoe Moon)

From the Office of Tribal Councilor Robert Kewaygoshkum

A

h-Boozhoo Aanii --When many new GTB members & new staff members hear the term “self-governance,” they think of tribal sovereignty or self-determination. However, self-governance has a more specific meaning, referring to federal dollars given to tribes to operate their own programs. Self-governance describes the relationship we have with the federal government. Instead of the federal government providing the services to us, we provide the services ourselves. Prior to self-governance the Bureau of Indian Affairs, which is part of the Department of the Interior, delivered programs and services to Indian tribes. Self-governance grew out of a Presidential directive by Richard Nixon supporting tribal sovereignty; this was the driving force behind legislation that became the Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act (ISDEAA). Tribes had been lobbying for more power to manage their own affairs, in part because they were frustrated with the Bureau of Indian Affairs and Indian Health Service bureaucracy. Inefficiency, mismanagement, and fraud were common. Demonstration projects began in 1975, and tribes began entering self-governance agreements in 1988. GTB became a self-governance tribe in July 1992 with a start date on October 1, 1992 to engage in negotiations and implementation of the cooperative self-governance agreements. Self-governance recognizes a tribe’s inherent sovereignty, but the main benefit of self-governance is that our Tribal Council knows GTB members’ needs and can address those needs most efficiently. There are no federal “middlemen” determining how those federal dollars are spent; instead, the GTB itself makes the decisions. An alternative model existed before self-governance and still exists on some reservations. Without self-governance, if a tree needed to be cut down, a call would need to be made to the Bureau of Indian Affairs forestry division, permission granted to cut the tree, and a BIA forester sent out to do the work — when they could find the time. Under self-governance, the Band makes that decision, sends its own people to cut the tree, and pays for it out of the federal dollars already in the bank. “Self-governance is more responsive,” Tribe says. “That’s the whole idea: locally we know what we need and what our priorities are, and self-governance supplements our funding so we can carry out those priorities.” In 1992, Congress amended the Act to allow tribes more autonomy in managing health care programs. GTB became a self-governance tribe under Indian Health Service on June 30, 1993 with start date on 4  GTB NEWS

September 30, 1993. In 2000, Congress permanently authorized the Indian Health Service Tribal Self-Governance Program. Today, of the 574 federally recognized tribes, there are 360 tribes in Indian Health Service Self-governance participating in self-governance and 350 tribes in the Department of Interior participating in self-governance. At GTB, the staff negotiates cooperative agreements based on input from elected officials. Department heads determine what the funds will be used for in accordance with their budgets. About half of the self-governance funds that flow through the reservation are IHS funds and the rest are for other purposes, including education, natural resources, and social services. A story came to mind the other day when I was participating in Natural Resource and Environmental Committee zoom meeting and one of our biologists, Dan Mays, was talking about working the maple syrup operation and taping tree for maple syrup. Jim Concannon, our past Elder always had a story to give me a boost to our native ways as we come out of the winter. Nothing like a good dose of spiritual sugar to get the native community into a busy time of year. The maple sap camp is a form of gratitude to honor the maple trees and accept the gifts they have brought to our ancestors and continue to give today. The spiritual energy transferred as the staff & community collect and boil the sap is ancient energy. As spring approaches, we as native people and our friends prepare for the beginning of new life. Spring is the time of the East and signifies the awakening of the world. The snow blanket will fade away, the grass will grow, and trees will create the breath needed for the beings to live as we prepare to gather the first gift, maple sap. The actions will build your physical being to be strong due to the amount of work involved. Your muscles will be toned, your mind will be tuned into being aware of what the environment is doing. What is the pattern of the temperature? What is the snow doing? Watching the sap boil brings time to reflect. What can I do as an Anishinaabe for my people? If you concentrate, you will be able to sense your ancestors as they have done the same for thousands of years. You will feel the energy of the past and future. Spiritually, spending time with the trees, you will feel good. The trees agreed to give life to our native way and take away our grief. Our people knew that giving gratitude for the trees will continue the cycle of spiritual energy. We are still receiving the gifts from gratitude expressed generations ago. We need to add to that cycle for our relatives yet to live to receive life. What one does affects us all. Deep down we feel the pain when we come across ailing Anishinaabe & friends. Over the years we got used to it and it feels normal. Pain is our normal. In order to relinquish the current way of living as a community, we need to give the gratitude to the Spirits. Every day, the gratitude will pile up amongst the Spirits, and they will see that the gifts they are giving are being well received. It’s like if you always give someone $20. If they are grateful and do well by your gift, you will be more willing to gift. If the person doesn’t accept or does bad by your gift, will you gift them again? Be like the Spirits; it is a gift to the future, and they will be grateful & it is amazing what you think as you watch the sap boil. Jim Concannon always had a good story to tell. On the COVID-19 front, the numbers appear to be trending in the right direction. The Governor seems to be loosening restrictions, but we must remain cautious and vigilant as we begin to socialize more; continuing to follow the CDC Guidelines. We do not want our numbers to go the other direction. Remember, just because you may have received both doses of the vaccine, it does not make you 100% protected. Remember the three’s W: Wash hands, Wear a mask, Watch your social distance, and Be Safe. Wish you well, Pama


April / 2021 Ziisabaakadoki / Aagame Giizis (Sugar / Snow Shoe Moon)

Public Notices

Obituaries Respectfully Acknowledging Our Loss Robert “Bob” Bailey GTB Tribal Member Traverse City, MI 7/4/1973 – 3/10/2021

Respectfully Acknowledging Our Loss

Please update address thru Membership Office Information to follow @ 231-534-7670

Updated Addresses Needed

Sacred Fire

Visitation

Aasland, Catori Rynn Alexander, John Patrick Anewishki, Alicia Lynn Anewishki, Brandon Leo Anewishki, Just Jerome Becker, Ariel Christina Bessert, Heather Leigh Bigjoe, John-Al Bonilla, Teresa Victoria Bradford, Austin Michael Bradford, Felecia Sue Brenner, Jon Nathaniel Brisk, Maniyan Little Fawn Bronson, Nokomis Kahana Calkins, Benjamin Richard Calkins, Robert Joseph Case, Miigizi Miigwan Chippewa, Ki-Ja-Te Everette Chippewa, Victoria Hailey Connor, Celeste Day, Adrian John

to follow Hancock,Information Duane Ronald Head, Billy Jay Funeral Service Information Head, Cheryl Josie to follow Head, Shelby Leigh Head, Sydney Herchelle Hirth, Kenneth Louis Huhtala, Jody Lee Jourden, Raymond Ladones Kalinowski, Paul Lee Marshall King, Joshua Zachariah Kiogima, Calvin Jacob Kissee, Rosetta Marie Kline, Laci Yvonne Rose Koopman, James Fisher Kutchey, Kelly Wayne Landreville, Frank Cordell Lopez, Jeremie Lee Marez, Harriett Arlene Marlin, Cheyenne Marie Mascorro, Gerri Darlene Massey, Chayton Derek

Palmer, William Claude Pate, Brandon Skyler Pate, Cameron Kyle Peltonen, Jacob Jeremy Perez, Santana Lynda Peters, Elizabeth Joyce Petoskey, Jason Lee Pierce, Barbara Jean Posada, Hector Raphael, Joseph Lee Robertson, Iretha Anne Nichole Russell, Cerise Waqsejuan Schaub, Lawrence Edward Scheiding, Taylor Rae Seeley, George Franklin Shomin, Francis John Shomin, Meh-may Gwaz Skop, Alaina Rose Skop, Bruce Lloyd Smith, Melissa June Sorg, Kandy Lynn

Dudley, Jacob Silas Dunleavy, Korrie Lee Esquivel, Trinidad George Evans, Debra Jean Fansler, Jennifer Leigh Fish, William John Gregory Floyd, Eliza Marie Floyd, Mariya Lin Francis, Kendall Lars Gannon, Marquita Nicole Gaston, Adara Quinn Gingway, Diane Lynn Hall, Azalea Jane

McDonald Jr., Eric Francis McQueer, Charles William McSauby, Tonya Fae Meza, Xochilt Priscilla Miller, Dennis Eliot Miller, Andrew Isaac Mosher Jr., Kenneth Harris Mosher, Ambrose Paul Mosher, Cheyenne Nicole Mosher, Heath Allen Naghtin, Amy Danielle Nemec, Lillia Elizabeth Marie Nichols, Diane Marie

Stevens, Justin Joseph Straight, Jason Marshall Ward Strickland, Christine Elizabeth Sturak, Joshua Paul Sundell, Nicole Susan Tedder-Manzano, Xavier Homero Turner, Mark Aaron Vasher, Jonathan Micheal White, Curtis Clarence Winstone, Aydryiona Rae Wiser Jr., Frederick Alexander Woollard, Trevor Kenneth Young, Michael Alan

GTB Emergency Phone Numbers FY2021 Cell Number

Rebecca Oien

Tribal Manager DEPARTMENT 1 Elders DEPARTMENT 2 Public Safety

DEPARTMENT 3

Tribal Management

Tribal Manager Executive Assistant — Doris Winslow

Doris Winslow (Intermin) Jolanda Murphy

Rebecca Oien

Public Safety Police Captain Fire Department Communications OMB Housing Human Resources

For Bereavement Assistance Department 4 Facilities Management For Power Outages contact your local Electrical Company Department 5 Conservation Department 6 Membership Department 7 Human Services

Ron Anderson

Department 8 Health Services

Soumit Pendharkar Emergencies PRC Referrals Medical Transportation needs. Clinic Nurse Sherri Vezina Erik Olsen T J McClellan Dawn Shenoskey

Department Department Department Department

9 10 11 12

Tribal Court Natural Resources Regulatory Life Long Learning

— — — — — — — — — — —

Main David Crockett Garrett Fairchild James Sullivan Ken Thelen Nicole Basch Mike Teeple

Facilities — Paul McGrath

David Crockett Diana Arnold Arlene Kashata

Behavioral Health ON-Call # AFS

Benodjenh Strongheart Center

TMO/Directories

— — — — — — — — — — — — — — —

Stella Chippewa Michelle Shaw Mari Raphael

Joyce McClellan Delores Wonegeshik

— — — — — — — — — — — —

631-8544 866-1108 866-1108 866-1165 534-7777 866-1264 866-1271 631-8544 631-3184 534-7240 313-9482 631-7134 631-9983

—

866-0381

— — — — — — — — — — — — — — —

866-1264 866-6012 866-6080 342-7678 499-5162 631-2978 360-7195 632-6876 499-8758 866-1238 218-6537 342-6320 313-8609 866-6178 866-6317 updated 01.12.2021

GTB NEWS  5


BSSW / GTED

April / 2021 Ziisabaakadoki / Aagame Giizis (Sugar / Snow Shoe Moon)

T hinking about a CAREER CHANGE? Bay Shore Steel Wor ks (BSSW) needs

WELDERS

We would love to have more Tribal Member s

JOIN OUR TEAM

Check out this Welding School located in Onaway, Michigan. Get cer tified in 19 weeks! Please contact the following to see if you qualify for payment assistance for the welding program:

Tammi Ward (Industrial Arts Institute)

989.733.4369

Aeawosgi Campos (GTB 477 Program)

231.534.7767

Kerstine Bennington (LTBB NIT Program)

231.242.1485

EMERGENCY ASSISTANCE 911

FIRE DEPARTMENT 231-534-7666

PER CAP HOT LINE 231-534-7372

TRIBAL COURT 231-534-7050

JOB HOT LINE 1-888-2946

GTB HOUSING 231-313-9482

TRIBAL GOV 231-534-7000

GOV SWITCHBOARD 231-534-7750

TRIBAL POLICE 231-534-7777

TOLL FREE 1-866-534-7750

Grand Traverse Band News Send submissions in by the 3rd Friday each month.

2605 N West Bay Shore Drive, Peshawbestown, MI 49682-9275

Editor: James Sullivan

© Grand Traverse Band News, all rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without permission of the editor is prohibited. The Grand Traverse Band does not assume liability for unsolicited materials. Materials submitted for publication become the property of the Grand Traverse Band. The right to edit or refuse to print is maintained. Subscriptions are $24 per year. Please contact the editor for assistance.

james.sullivan@gtbindians.com Phone: (231) 534-7366 Cell: (231) 631-3184 Communications Office: Phone: (231) 534-7008 6  GTB NEWS


April / 2021 Ziisabaakadoki / Aagame Giizis (Sugar / Snow Shoe Moon)

BSSW / GTED

Grand Traverse Economic Development (GTED) Updates SPOTLIGHT THE US SMALL BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION’S 8(a) BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM TED was formed in 2012 to diversify the Tribal economy by G pursuing government contracting opportunities, which would provide new sources of revenue for the Tribe and provide employ-

ment opportunities. Today, GTED provides services to municipal, Tribal and Federal entities in a diverse range of industries including: • Steel Manufacturing at Bay Shore Steel Works (BSSW) • Construction and engineering at Grand Traverse Engineering & Construction (GTEC) • IT solutions at GTB Engineering, Security & Technology (GTBEST) • Health solution at GTB Health Services (GTBHS) Tribal companies like ours have tremendous advantages to grow and to gain new contracts with the Federal government through participation in the US Small Business Administration’s 8(a) Business Development Program. This is a nine-year program which allows disadvantaged small businesses to access tools to grow their business including sole-source contract awards, secure contracts in the 8(a) program pool, and the opportunity to team with or form joint ventures with other companies to secure contracts larger than would be possible on their own. In July 2020 GTEC successfully entered the program and secured its first 8(a) contract with the US Forest Service that same summer. Next up for GTEC is to secure indefinite delivery, indefinite quantity (IDIQ) awards, which are multi-year contracts which provide for an indefinite quantity of services for a fixed time. Bay Shore Steel Works is also in the process of submitting its application to enter the program, and we look forward to a decision on that application soon.

Meet the GTED Board of Directors: Tom Shomin, Chairman

Tom brings extensive leadership and business experience. He is retired from his service at GTB and we welcome his knowledge on the Board.

Theresa Pelcher, Tribal Council Liaison

As a newly elected Tribal Council member, Theresa bridges the gap between business and community. She has previously worked on the EDC/Casino side and governmental services.

Mark Wilson, MPA, Tribal Council Liaison

With his historic knowledge of the economic development initiatives of GTB, he has a unique perspective to help guide the future success of GTED.

SUBSIDIARY CEO UPDATES Grand Traverse Engineering & Construction Last year, GTEC succeeded in breaking into the federal contracting arena by qualifying for the SBA 8(a) certification. Following their first successful sole sourced contract with the Ottawa National Forest back in October 2020, they have now entered into discussions with the US Forest Service to sign a 5-year Indefinite Delivery Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) contract to provide services to 15 National Forests and 1 National Grassland. These separate forests/grassland areas are spread throughout the Eastern Region of the United States within 13 different states. GTEC is excited to start the 2021 construction season with new projects in and around the State of Michigan!

Jon Anderson, PE, Vice-Chairman

We welcome Jon’s input and experience as a civil engineer and community small business owner.

Walter “Duke” Maniteau, Treasurer/Secretary

Duke’s vast knowledge of construction and development has been and continues to be invaluable.

GTED Hiring Spotlight Welcome to Leona Monroe. Please join us in welcoming Leona Monroe to her new position as GTED’s Human Resources Director. Leona brings more than 20 years of tribal business experience including human resources leadership positions for the Coeur d’Alene Casino in Idaho and Gun Lake Casino in Wayland, Michigan. She received her Bachelor’s degree in Business with a focus in Human Resource Management from the University of Idaho and Master’s in Organizational Leadership from Gonzaga University. Leona joined GTED as Office Manager in the fall of 2020 and has served as Interim Director of Human Resources at since January 2021.

Bay Shore Steel Works is Hiring! CNC Machinist(s) Entry-Level) CNC Machinist(s) (Experienced) Welder(s) Manufacturing Supervisor (2nd Shift) Production Planner/Scheduler Waterjet Operator Laser Operator Plasma Operator Quality Technician

Product Spotlight GTBHS was able to secure 1,000 pulse oximeters for the GTB Health Clinic. With the current Covid-19 pandemic, it is extremely difficult to secure certain medical devices (such as medical grade thermometers, PPE, and pulse oximeters), especially a large amount and at a good price. We are proud to be able to use our network to secure these items for GTB Members through the GTB Health Clinic.

All current job openings at GTED and its subsidiaries: https://gtedusa.net/careers/

GTB NEWS  7


Sap Boiling

April / 2021 Ziisabaakadoki / Aagame Giizis (Sugar / Snow Shoe Moon)

NRD Sap Boiling and Syrup Making nce again the GTB Natural Resources Department was able O to tap tree’s for sap to boil and turn into syrup. Many trees are tapped to collect sap into a large container that feeds into

an evaporator to boil the sap, which ultimately leads to syrup. This is a simplified version of the process. NRD’s Nate Campbell was working the evaporator and offered some insight into the process of making sap into syrup. When making syrup, 40 gallons of sap creates 1 gallon of syrup. At the time, NRD had 175 gallons of sap to boil and that would create 4 gallons of syrup. The sugar content in sap raises the boiling point, syrup boils at 219 degrees. The ideal conditions for sap flow are when nighttime temperatures drop below freezing and daytime temperatures are above freezing, this creates pressure conditions that are ideal for sap flow. While tapping a tree does leave a mark, the tree is able to recover, and grow over the tap hole with no danger to the health of the tree.

-Written by: James Sullivan - Editor

Grand Traverse Band Elders Elders Program

Menu 2021

Meals are provided for Curbside Pick up & Home Deliveries Call 534-7746 or email Tanya.raphael2@gtbindians.com to be added to the list Sun

4 Easter Day

Mon

Tue

Wed

Thu

Fri

Sat

* Menu subject to Change Due to availability

* Meals served with bread, salads

1 Corn Soup & Frybread 2 w/fruit

3

5 Easter luncheon Ham, potato’s, veggies Dinner roll w/ Special dessert

6 7 Spaghetti W/sauce Pulled pork sandwich, and Garlic Bread , fruit Cole slaw, fruit cup

8 Wet Burrito’s Brownies

9

10

13 Sweet & Sour Chicken w/rice and Broccoli

14 Cheeseburger Potato wedges Vegetable, fruit

15 Chicken Cordon blue Baked potatoes W/ vegetable , fruit

16

17

20 Taco Tuesday, w/Rice, beans w/Tortilla’s

21 Tuna Casserole w/Fruit

22 Meat Loaf Potatoes, carrots w/ dinner roll

23

24

27 BIG Breakfast Eggs Fried potato’s Bacon pancake

28 Cooks choice

29 stuffed cabbage rolls W/ sauce and veggies, fruit

30

Menu subject to change

Bag of Salad mix 11

12 Potato Soup W/ ham hock, frybread Bag of salad mix

18

19 Broccoli soup w/ dinner roll Bag of salad mix

25

26 Cream of Chicken soup w/ biscuits Bag of Salad Mix

8  GTB NEWS


April / 2021 Ziisabaakadoki / Aagame Giizis (Sugar / Snow Shoe Moon)

Behavioral Health

Behavioral Health Updates

GTB NEWS  9


Elders Calendars

April / 2021 Ziisabaakadoki / Aagame Giizis (Sugar / Snow Shoe Moon)

Elder’s Calendars

April

2021

Activity Calendar

Stay Busy! Remember if you take a picture of the activities you finished and send it in with your name to be entered in drawing for a door prize! Sunflowers make the cheeriest cut flowers and never fail to raise a smile!

Sunday

Monday

4

Tuesday

5

Week #1

Wednesday

6

Thursday

7

11

12

13

14

18

25

20

21

9 Take a picture of Activity/send to Elder Coordinator 16 Take a picture of Activity/send to Elder Coordinator 23

10

22

Finish Planting

Spring Begins!

Flower Plants

26

Week #4

8

Do Exercise

19

Week #3

3

15

Exercise

27

28

17

24

Take a picture of Activity/send to Elder Coordinator 29

30 Take a picture of Activity/send to Elder Coordinator

Call if you need help with lap blanket

Continued Lap Blankets

Saturday 2

Finish Coloring

Coloring

Week #2

Friday 1

TC/Antrim Elder Coordinators Phone Numbers: Sharon Edgington (231)534-7710 Office and (231)866-6074 Cell Sharon K. Wasageshik (231)534-7769 Office and (231)342-4740 Cell

APRIL 2021 CHARLEVOIX Elders Activity Calendar

Sun

4

Mon

5 HAPPY EASTER To Everyone!

11

Tue

6

Wed

7

Thu 2

3

8

9

10

When complete, Take photo, send to me for 2 tickets in EOM drawing. 13

14

15

Exercise (walk, jog)

19

With some activities I’ve made kits, please call me to come and pick one up.

Read a book of your choice (WWII would be interesting)

25

26 27 Look for your name in the list of April Birthdays in the GTB newsletter

EOM—End of Month

10  GTB NEWS

16

17

When complete, take photo, send to me for 2 tickets in EOM drawing.

18

All activities will be entered into the EOM drawing to receive the winning prize!

Sat

1

Make a 4” or 5” Dream Catcher

12

Fri

20

21

22

23

24

When complete, take photo, send to me for 3 tickets in EOM drawing.

TAXES: NMCAA volunteers will work at Baptist Church on M-66 across from old K-Mart in Charlevoix. Call 800-6327334 ex 3.

28

29

Virginia Fields Elder Dept (O) 231.534.7066 C: 231.492.4351

30 Circle your name, take photo, send to me for 3 tickets in EOM drawing. Meal Site is Charlevoix Senior Center, Serving Curbside daily from 11:30 –12:30 pm


April / 2021 Ziisabaakadoki / Aagame Giizis (Sugar / Snow Shoe Moon)

Elders Calendars

Elder’s Calendars 2021 Leelanau Elders Calendar Sun Greg 492-4976 Wa’Sinade 8661013

Mon

Tue

Complete each activity receive a ticket for Monthly drawing—call to pick up your activity kit—take pictures

Meals are available on Tuesday for Curb side pick up. Sign up a week in advance for preparation

Wed

Thu

Fri

Sat

Call this month 1 to sign up for a Movie pass. Handed out last week on Wednesday and Thursday

2

3

4

5 6 Starter Garden kit

7

8 Monthly Raffle drawing for Activity bags

9

10

11

12 Easter 13 Activity - Pick an Eggs

14

15

16

17

18

19

20

21

23

24

Exercise activity Ball Game

Spring Begins

22 Earth Day

26 Motor skills

27

28

29 Turn in activities

30

25

Build a Wind Chime W/ Cans

April 2021, BENZIE/ MANISTEE ELDER’S Sun

Mon

Tue

Wed

Thu

Fri

Sat

BENZIE ELDER COORDINATOR: Robbin Raphael OFFICE: 534-7824 CELL: 492-4352

ALL ACTIVITIES ARE ALCOHOL & DRUG FREE. PLEASE CALL AHEAD TO CONFIRM.

Movie Passes will Call to pick up be available for April Will call you Craft kit for all Crafts as soon as we get them

1

2

3

4 Easter Sunday

5 Craft Time Lap Blanket

6

8

9

10

>>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>

>>>>>>>>>>

>>>>>>>>>>

12 Medicine Pouch

13

15

16

>>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>

>>>>>>>>>>

>>>>>>>>>.

19

20

21

22

23

Mothers Day Craft

>>>>>>>>>>>

>>>>>>>>>

>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>

27

28

29

11

18

25

26

)

7

14

30

17

24

Keep Exercise each day GTB NEWS  11


Elders Birthdays

April / 2021 Ziisabaakadoki / Aagame Giizis (Sugar / Snow Shoe Moon)

Elders Birthday’s “Mino-Dibishkaan!” - Happy Birthday! Sincerely, GTB News Staff & Membership Department Stanley Bigjoe

1-Apr

Sandra Turner

11-Apr

Joan Petoskey

21-Apr

Clinton Gould

1-Apr

Ginger Hardy

12-Apr

Nicholas Bailey

22-Apr

Alvina Napont

2-Apr

Jack

12-Apr

Ella

22-Apr

Barbara Pierce

2-Apr

James Kenwabikise 12-Apr

Mark Madagame 22-Apr

Joseph Raphael

2-Apr

Sharon Reisedge

12-Apr

Susan Salsman

23-Apr

William Bailey

3-Apr

Sherry Hacker

13-Apr

George Warren

23-Apr

Wallace

3-Apr

Henry Bailey

14-Apr

Charlotte Wells

23-Apr

Robert McDonald

3-Apr

Mabel Burns

14-Apr

Delores Ermatinger

24-Apr

John

3-Apr

Sheila Lawler

14-Apr

Rebecca Kalush

24-Apr

Janice Petoskey

3-Apr

Gertrude Minzey

14-Apr

Richard King

24-Apr

Yvonne Gale

5-Apr

Michael Patten

14-Apr

Robert Lewis

24-Apr

Shawn

5-Apr

Joanna Brownell-Hill 15-Apr

Debra GreenSky

25-Apr

Richard McGrath

5-Apr

Vincent Held

15-Apr

Lesley Mellema

25-Apr

Patricia Randolph

5-Apr

Patrick McGrath

15-Apr

Richard Menefee

25-Apr

William Reed

5-Apr

Deborah McNeil

15-Apr

Marty Novak

25-Apr

Gail

6-Apr

Cornelia

15-Apr

Judith O’Neill

25-Apr

Anita Hall

6-Apr

William DeVerney

16-Apr

Eugene Wabindato

25-Apr

Barbara Hanninen

6-Apr

Beth Hensley

16-Apr

Lark

26-Apr

James Mills

6-Apr

Quintin Walker

16-Apr

Debra Koepp

27-Apr

Lynn

6-Apr

Laverne Winters

16-Apr

Lilly

Pocock

27-Apr

James Harter

7-Apr

Gail

16-Apr

Jane

Rohl

27-Apr

Ronald Scheiding

7-Apr

Kellene Given

17-Apr

Arlene DeVerney

28-Apr

Larry Gates

8-Apr

David Mamagona

17-Apr

Elaine Marquez

28-Apr

Louis Gates

8-Apr

Louis Williams

17-Apr

Kerry Nyquest

28-Apr

Geneva LaSieur

8-Apr

Elwood Stainbrook

18-Apr

Linda Amstutz

29-Apr

Thomas McSauby

8-Apr

Mark Henley

19-Apr

Joseph Finch

29-Apr

Lora

9-Apr

George McClellan

19-Apr

Julie

29-Apr

Peter Shomin

9-Apr

Luella Cote

20-Apr

Barbara Kutchey

29-Apr

Sandra Yannott

9-Apr

Debra Gannon

20-Apr

Alice Markus

29-Apr

Michelle McQueer

10-Apr

Kathleen Lewis

20-Apr

Patricia Alexander

30-Apr

Charles Petoskey

10-Apr

Sandra Raphael

20-Apr

Michael Bailey

30-Apr

Elizabeth Gribbell

11-Apr

Albert Gunderson

21-Apr

Roberta Brothwell

30-Apr

Connie Hacker

11-Apr

Carl

21-Apr

Diane Smith

30-Apr

Hall III

Moore

Koon Nolff

Diaz

Nada

Robert

Harter

Two Crow

Woods

Paepke

Germaine

Brotherton

Hillier

NOTICE OF RIGHTS TO OBTAIN TRIBAL COURT LEDGER All persons with money judgments in the Tribal Court have a right to obtain a copy of their Full Court Ledger. Money judgments in the Tribal Court may be from cases originating in the Tribal Court or from foreign court judgments. Money judgments may result in capture of Per Capita distributions. If you have any questions or a copy of your FullCourt Ledger, please contact the Tribal Court at 231-534-7050

12  GTB NEWS


April / 2021 Ziisabaakadoki / Aagame Giizis (Sugar / Snow Shoe Moon)

Farmers Market

GRAND TRAVERSE BAND OF OTTAWA AND CHIPPEWA INDIANS - ELDERS DEPARTMENT 2021 SENIOR FARMERS’ MARKET NUTRITION PROGRAM PARTICIPANT APPLICATION

FIRST NAME _____________________________________________ Age: _________ ADDRESS _____________________________________________________________ STREET CITY STATE ZIP HOME PHONE (____)________________________________ SEX:

____ M

____ F

EMAIL ADDRESS________________________________________________________ TOTAL HOUSEHOLD SIZE: __________ TOTA L HOUSEHOLD INCOME _____________ The collection of race and ethnicity is requested solely for the purpose of determining the State agency’s compliance with Federal civil rights laws and ensures that the program is administered in a non-discriminatory manner. Your responses to these questions will not affect consideration of your application. If you choose not to self-identify race and ethnicity, the person taking the application must record the participant’s race and ethnicity based on visual observation. ETHNICITY CATEGORY: _____ HISPANIC OR LATINO _____ NOT HISPANIC OR LATINO RACE CATEGORY (select one or more): _____ AMERICAN INDIAN OR ALASKA NATIVE _____ ASIAN _____ BLACK OR AFRICAN AMERICAN _____ NATIVE HAWAIIAN OR ANOTHER PACIFIC ISLANDER _____ WHITE To be eligible to receive SFMNP coupons, you must be 55 years of age and meet the income guidelines, which are based on 185% of the Federal Poverty Income Guidelines during the current fiscal year. You have been given a copy of the current income guidelines for this fiscal year. You must provide a copy of the acceptance letter that you are a participant in SSI or a member of a family/economic unit participating with the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC) or on a waiting list for WIC. A copy of your Tribal ID will be needed, proof of residency, copy of driver license, State ID, or household bill in your name.

PROXY A proxy is a person only authorized to receive and/or redeem SFMNP coupons. A proxy should be a least 18 years of age and dependable for the duration of the program months of operation. For the coupons to be issued to a proxy, the proxy must present identification as well as written approval from the participant. Proxies must sign a designated line on the coupon log sheet prior to receiving the coupons. Proxies have the same obligations to follow program guidelines when purchasing fruits and vegetables from an authorized farmer. I, _____________________________ authorize the following individual(s) to act as my proxy. Participant signature Assigned proxies: ______________________________ 1st proxy named

______________________________ 2nd proxy names

____ Check here if n o proxy was assi gned CERTIF ICATION BY PARTICIPANT I have been advised of my rights and obligations under the SFMNP. I certify that the information I have provided for my eligibility determination is correct, to the best of my knowledge. I am aware that I cannot receive farmers’ market benefits from more than one state, more than one local agency or program model (check, coupon or CSA). This certification form is being submitted in connection with the receipt of Federal assistance. Program officials may verify information on this form. I understand that intentionally making a false or misleading statement or intentionally misrepresenting, concealing, or withholding facts may result in paying the State agency, in cash, the value of the food benefits improperly issued to me and may subject me to civil or criminal prosecution under State and Federal law. Standards for eligibility and participation in the SFMNP are the same for everyone, regardless of race, color, national origin, age, disability or sex. I understand that I may appeal any decision made by the local agency regarding my eligibility for the SFMNP. I certify I meet the 2021 household size and income guidelines provided by the state and that I am eligible to receive SFMNP benefits. ______________________________________ Signature of Participant

_________________________ Date

______________________________________ Signature of Certifier

_________________________ Date

Issued SFMNP booklet # ___________thru___________

_________________________ Date “In accordance with Federal law and U.S. Department of Agriculture policy, this institution is prohibited from discriminating based on race, color, national origin, sex, age, and disability. To file a complaint of discrimination, write USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights, 1400 Independence Avenue, S.W., Washington D.C. 20250-9410 or call (800) 795-3272 (voice) or (202) 720-6382 (TTY). USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.’

GTB NEWS  13


Caregiver Application

April / 2021 Ziisabaakadoki / Aagame Giizis (Sugar / Snow Shoe Moon)

GRAND TRAVERSE BAND ELDER’S PROGRAM FY 2021 CAREGIVER AND OLDER RELATIVE SUPPORT APPLICATION (APRIL 1- MARCH 30, 2022) CAREGIVER PROVIDER Name:

Tribal Id:

Current Address:

City:

Email Address:

,Michigan

Zip:

Contact Number:

Relationship to Elder: ELDER OR OLDER ADULT (18-54) RECEIVING CARE Elder’s Name:

Tribal Id:

Address:

City

,Michigan Zip:

Contact number: Signature of Elder or Older Adult receiving care: GRAND PARENT AND/OR OLDER RELATIVE MUST LIVE AND BE THE SOLE-PRIMARY CARE PROVIDER FOR A CHILD/REN (CHILD DOES NOT HAVE TO BE FEDERALLY RECOGNIZED)? YES OR NO.

The sole primary care provider is the person responsible for the child/ren health, education, and lives with child/ren.

Child Name:

Age:

Tribal ID (If Applicable):

Child Name:

Age:

Tribal ID (If Applicable):

Child Name: Age: RESPITE CAREGIVER INFORMATION IF NEEDED

Tribal ID (If Applicable):

Name: Address:

City:

,Michigan

Zip:

Email: CONTACT NUMBER:

CELL NUMBER:

TEMPORARY OR PERMANENT DISABILITY OR OLDER ADULTS RAISING GRANDCHILDREN Length of time you provide care: ⃣ Temporary Length______________ ⃣ Permanent ⃣ Sole Primary care provider and live with a child/ren ⃣ over 20 days________________ Do you receive any type of subsidy, payment or reimbursement for the care you are providing (For: Child or older adult) from an agency? Yes No If yes, from which agency:

Phone:

Duplication of services is prohibited. PROGRAM PROVIDES ASSISTANT TO PROVIDERS THAT CARE FOR ELDERS THAT ARE “FRAIL” FUNCTIONALLY IMPAIRED DUE TO COGNITIVE OR OTHER IMPAIRMENT OR OLDER ADULTS RAISING GRANDCHILDREN List two Difficult Activities of Daily Living that you provide support ⃣ ⃣

None

⃣

All

List two Instrumental activities of daily living that you provide support ⃣

⃣

feeding ⃣ dressing hygiene-bathing

None

⃣ toileting - bladder and/or bowel function ⃣ appearance ⃣ mobility / transferring ⃣

walking – stair climbing

⃣ ⃣

shopping Finances

⃣

What type of illness does recipien take medication for or been diagnosed with

⃣

All cleaning

⃣ cooking meals ⃣ using phone ⃣ taking medication ⃣ ⃣

Yard work Transportation

⃣

Dementia Cancer ⃣

Mental Illness Parkinson’s Alzheimer’s ⃣

Mobility_______________

⃣ ⃣ ⃣

⃣

⃣

ALS

⃣

MS

Other_________________

Brief description of individuals disability and assistance you are requesting:

I declare that all documentation and statements contained herein are true and genuine. I understand that falsification of any information contained in this application may subject the application to criminal offenses. It may also result in an immediate denial of services. SIGNATURES Signature to release information and (Name) on Purchase Order: Signature of applicant:

14  GTB NEWS

Date:


April / 2021 Ziisabaakadoki / Aagame Giizis (Sugar / Snow Shoe Moon)

GTB Heritage Library Survey

Youth Services

GTB Heritage Library’s April Events on Zoom

What events, activities, or programming would you like the Heritage Library to provide to the GTB Community? The community’s input is important to the Library and highly valued. So, give it some thought then call, email, or drop off your ideas to Francis Carew at the GTB Heritage Library. This survey is hosted by the GTB Heritage Library, GTB Lifelong Learning, and IMLS. For more information contact Francis Carew at 231-534-7752 (Francis.Carew@gtbindians.com) or Dawn Shenoskey at 231-534-7753.

Miigwetch-Thank You!

The Heritage Library Ziigwan (It is Spring) celebration continues. Librarian Francis Carew will host 2 arts and crafts events, Storytime, and a guitar class on Zoom. These events promote science, creativity, and literacy in children, the Anishinaabe oral tradition, and the enjoyment of learning to play guitar. They are free, open to the public of all ages, and you can join anytime.

Events 1. Storytime: April 7, 6-7 PM Rabbit and Bear Paws: Honesty (An Anishinaabe 7 Grandfathers Teaching) 2. Picture Frame Decorating: April 14, 6-7 PM Decorate your project, take a picture of you holding it, and email or text it to Francis. The best decorated picture frame will be posted in the GTB Newsletter. 3. Paper Plate Moon and Moon Phases: April 21, 6-7 PM This event has a science component that highlights the different phases of the moon. 4. Guitar Class: April 28, 6-7 PM Instruction for all levels and styles-beginner to advanced.

*Call or email Francis to get an event Goody Bag for events 1 to 3* To Join Each Event, Go To: https://zoom.us/j/97956292851?pwd=ZWo4MHdXbjJoSmh6cjFxM2gyZnIvQT09

All events are hosted by the GTB Heritage Library, GTB Lifelong Learning, and IMLS. For more information contact Francis Carew at 231-534-7752 (Francis.Carew@gtbindians.com) or Dawn Shenoskey at 231-534-7753. Miigwetch-Thank You!

GTB NEWS  15


Notes From Health Administrator

April / 2021 Ziisabaakadoki / Aagame Giizis (Sugar / Snow Shoe Moon)

Notes From The Health Administrator By: Soumit Pendharkar GTB Health Administrator e have reached an important milestone. We now have 70% of W our GTB Elders living in the 6-county service area vaccinated. Reaching the 70% threshold was an important goal for the GTB

• A reminder that we are currently vaccinating all Tribal Members age 16 and over and members of their households. We are also vaccinating all GTB employees including government, gaming, resort, and other entities. If you have been vaccinated elsewhere, we would appreciate it if you could please call the vaccination line at 231-534-7475 and voluntarily report this information. This will help us to keep our statistics updated.

Below is a summary of COVID-19 vaccination statistics as of March 21, 2021. We are in the process of validating our statistics. Updated and additional statistics will be provided in future communications.

• I encourage you to register for the GTB Health Department Lets Heal Telehealth platform. Please call 231-534-7478 to speak to our coordinator and create an account. A draft flyer has been included in this newsletter article. I’ve also included a copy of the mailer sent to every GTB tribal member household. The Lets Heal telehealth platform is a convenient way to get care from your GTB Health Department medical provider from the comfort and safety of your home. Additionally, GTB Tribal Members living in the 6-county service area are able to access Lets Heal for 4 covered visits for common conditions at any time, 24 hours a day, 7 days per week, within minutes.

Health Department and we will continue to vaccinate more GTB Elders going forward. Our next goal is for GTB Tribal Membership living in the 6-county service area age 16 and over to reach the 70%. This is currently at 42%.

-70% of GTB Elders in the 6-county service area have received at least 1 shot. -42% of GTB Tribal Members living in the 6-county service area age 16 and over have received at least 1 shot. -2,210 doses administered including 877 fully vaccinated individuals and 456 partially vaccinated individuals. -1,333 first doses administered and 877 second doses administered. -1,924 Moderna doses administered and 286 Pfizer doses administered. -1,148 doses administered to males and 1,060 doses administered to females. -1,065 doses (48.19%) administered to individuals age 55 and over.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS What is Lets Heal? Noojimodaa/ Lets Heal is an easier way to see a doctor. You can have video visits anytime on your smartphone, tablet, or computer. It’s easy to use, private, and secure. It’s free to enroll. What does Noojimodaa/ Lets Heal offer? Your choice of trusted, U.S. board-certified doctors and therapists • Peace of mind with a doctor “on call” 24/7 to provide quality care • Consultation, diagnosis, and prescriptions (when appropriate) Lets Heal can be used any time, day or night. It’s perfect when your doctor’s office is closed, you’re too sick or busy to see someone in person. How do I Sign-up? 1. A valid email address is required. 2. Contact our Referral Coordinator at (231) 534-7556 to be enabled for Lets Heal.

16  GTB NEWS

• Pre-visit COVID-19 testing for medical and dental appointments is no longer necessary for fully vaccinated patients. Patients that have not been fully vaccinated or are unvaccinated will continue to be tested on a pre-visit basis. This change is being implemented based on the new guidance issued by the CDC for fully vaccinated people that recommends against testing fully vaccinated persons unless symptoms develop.

3. Download our iOS or Android mobile app OR visit our website. Search for “Lets Heal”. 4. Fill in the contact information form 5. Set up your username and password When would I use Noojimodaa/ Lets Heal? • I am experiencing COVID-19 related symptoms • I should probably see a doctor, but can’t fit it into my schedule • My doctor’s office is closed • I feel too sick to drive • I have children at home and don’t want to bring them with me • It’s difficult for me to get a doctor’s appointment Who Are The Doctors? Clinical services on Lets Heal are provided by GTB Health Department providers and by doctors in the American Well Medical Group.

All providers: • have profiles, so you can see their education and practice experience • are rated by other patients, so you can review and select the doctor that meets your needs How do I add my spouse? Your spouse should create a separate account to enroll. How do I add a child to my account? Parents and guardians can add their children who are under age 18 to their account and have doctor visits on their behalf. Enroll yourself first and then add then add your child or dependent to your account. What should I do if I have a child over 18 who is still on my health insurance? They should enroll as an adult and create their own separate account. Questions & Assistance If you have any other questions, please call our Referral Coordinator at (231) 534-7556.


April / 2021 Ziisabaakadoki / Aagame Giizis (Sugar / Snow Shoe Moon)

COVID-19 / Lets Heal

COVID-19 / Lets Heal the spread of COVID-19. My wife and I were vaccinated by the GTB clinic staff prior to deployment. We had mild tiredness, some headache, and my wife had the chills one day after the shot. It is well worth the mild symptoms when compared to the tragic impact COVID can have. I thank each one of you for being a hero, doing what can to prevent COVID-19 including coming to the clinic for your COVID-19 vaccination. On a personal note, we have two children. My wife teaches several classes including Civil Procedure and Federal Indian Law at Wayne State. In my free time I like wood working, welding, quill work, deer hunting, wild rice harvesting and processing, birch bark crafting, and going to ceremony. I plan to draw one random GTB vaccinated person to receive the basket in the picture. You only need to be vaccinated by the GTB clinic to be entered to win. oozhoo nindawaymagunidook! Hello relatives. My name is B Dwayne Jarman. I am a GTB member and a US Public Health Service (PHS) Officer that is currently deployed to the Grand

If you see me around feel free to say boozhoo!

Traverse Band to help with the COVID-19 vaccination initiative. I will be helping build a dashboard for our community to track how well we are protecting ourselves from COVID-19.

I started out my public health career working at GTB. In 20022003, I administered the GTB Health Needs Assessment, a survey we continue to use today. Since that time I was commissioned by the President as a PHS Officer. I trained in Public Health Leadership and Outbreak Investigation by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). I then worked for the IHS National Indian Health Service Health Promotion Disease Prevention and Improving Healthcare Programs. In 2010, I began working with the Food and Drug Administration based out of Detroit, MI. I currently work for the Centers for Foods and Applied Nutrition at FDA. I wanted to thank the GTB for requesting PHS assistance allowing me to support minobimadziwin (good life) in our community. COVID-19 has had a major impact in tribal communities. Vaccination is a very important part to stopping

GTB NEWS  17


COVID-19 Numbers

18  GTB NEWS

April / 2021 Ziisabaakadoki / Aagame Giizis (Sugar / Snow Shoe Moon)


Traditional Healers

April / 2021 Ziisabaakadoki / Aagame Giizis (Sugar / Snow Shoe Moon)

Traditional Healers Traditional Healer

and Helper

Keith Smith and Valerie Smith Will be here on: April 22nd & 23rd , 2021 Location: Medicine Lodge – Behavioral Health

(A Covid test will be required day of, Behavior Health will provide the testing prior to session)

Time:  , 

   

Bring enough Tobacco for a Pipe bowl full. Women on their moontime cannot attend this session. Please refrain from Alcohol/Drugs 4 days prior. A gift is your choice to bring along with your request for assistance but is not mandatory. Requests for names, colors, clans, doctoring for illness, dreams spiritual guidance, etc. are appropriate requests. All ages welcome (Newborn-Great Grandparents)

Call: Marion @ BHS office at 231-534-7090 to schedule an appointment with the Healers

Traditional Healer

and Helper

Jay Bird and Patricia Bird Will be here on:

Location: Medicine Lodge – Behavioral Health Program

(A Covid test will be required day of, Behavior Health will provide the testing prior to session)

Time:

 Jiisakaan (Shake Tent) Ceremony  Begins 7:30 p.m. -- Medicine Lodge lobby area

      

Bring enough Tobacco for a Pipe bowl full. Bring a piece of material about 12 inches square for offering. A gift is your choice to bring along with your request for assistance but is not mandatory. Women on their moon-time cannot attend this session. Please refrain from Alcohol/Drugs 4 days prior. Requests for names, colors, clans, doctoring for illness, dreams spiritual guidance, etc. are appropriate requests. All ages welcome (Newborn-Great Grandparents)

Call: Marion @ BHS office at 231-534-7090

GTB NEWS  19


Public Safety Updates and Information

April / 2021 Ziisabaakadoki / Aagame Giizis (Sugar / Snow Shoe Moon)

Public Safety Updates and Information Tornado Awareness

ornadoes can strike at any time and northern lower Michigan T tornadoes have happened. Be aware of the signs of a Tornado and be ready to take shelter to keep you and your family safe. The Grand Traverse Band Tornado shelters open April 1, 2021 for the season so have plans to seek shelter if storms occur at any moment. FEMA provides up to date information on preparedness. The article below can be found on: https://www.ready.gov/tornadoes or How to Prepare for a Tornado to plan and take action to keep you safe. About 1,200 tornadoes hit the United States every year and everyone in the Midwest is at risk of experiencing a tornado warning. Tornadoes are violently rotating columns of air that extend from a thunderstorm to the ground. They can destroy buildings, flip cars, and create deadly flying debris. Tornadoes can: • Happen anytime and anywhere; • Bring intense winds, over 200 MPH; and • Look like funnels Article from FEMA Region V.

Grand Traverse Band Tornado Shelters Open for 2021 Spring and Summer Season Each tornado shelter will be unlocked from April 1st to October 1st for the spring and summer months. GTB Fire Department will lock the shelters each year for the winter season. There are three (3) storm shelters located on the reservation. The first unit is located behind the Elder’s complex, the second unit is located near the cul-de-sac in front of the Elder’s complex on Ki-Dah-Keh and the third unit is located on Peshawbestown Road near the Natural Resources weather monitoring station. We also have one unit located near the playground equipment at the Charlevoix Satellite Office, one unit located near the PowWow grounds at the Benzie Satellite Office and one unit located near the playground area at the Antrim location. The shelters were designed and installed for the safety and protection of the residents without basements in their homes for sheltering during a tornado event. Each shelter will hold approximately 24 people. That number may be reduced, depending on pets and items carried.

20  GTB NEWS

Definitions on what a WATCH or WARNING is: When a tornado watch is announced, it means that weather conditions are where severe storms could produce a tornado. At this time you should have the previously prepared kit accessible, remain alert for approaching storms. Watch the sky and stay tuned to NOAA Weather Radio, commercial radio, or television for information. All Tribal Commercial Buildings received a NOAA Weather Radio. When a tornado warning is announced, it means that a tornado has been sited or has been indicated by weather radar. At this time you should take your emergency kit and immediately seek shelter. Each household should have an emergency kit readily located within their home that they could take with them to the designated shelter area. The kit should be stocked with a flashlight (batteries left out), non-perishable food (for you and your pets), a radio (batteries left out), minor medical kit, and enough fresh drinking water for all family members and pets.


April / 2021 Ziisabaakadoki / Aagame Giizis (Sugar / Snow Shoe Moon)

MDHHS

Once you get your dose of hope, mask up while others get theirs. One day in the future, we won’t need to wear masks. But for right now, we all need to keep wearing masks. Even after you get vaccinated. The virus is still out there. Help protect your friends, family and neighbors.

Learn more at Michigan.gov/COVIDvaccine

GTB NEWS  21


Advertisements / Community

April / 2021 Ziisabaakadoki / Aagame Giizis (Sugar / Snow Shoe Moon)

Grand Traverse Band Elders Cook Book Project Want to have a fun way connect with others, take part in a group effort, and produce a sharable collection of recipes through the Elders Program by sharing and honoring family recipes. Here is the information to include on your recipe card: Name of your dish, Measurements and Ingredients, Cooking length & temperature. Don’t forget to include your name. Contact your Elders Coordinator for more information. Recipes will be collected by mail, email, or even phone.

Natural Resources Department News Email: NRD@gtbindians.com Phone: 231-534-7500

Elk & Bear 2021 The Elk & Bear lottery will be open from: May 1st @ 5:00 p.m. – June 1st @ 5:00 p.m. This year, NRD will be giving out “confirmation numbers” with each request, when you call please make sure to ask for your confirmation number to ensure your entry into the lottery. All license renewals will be required before a name is submitted into the lottery.

Renewal Stickers 2021-2022 All GTB Hunting, Fishing, Gathering & Trapping Licenses expire April 1st Please call or email the Natural Resources Department for your 2021/2022 renewal sticker. Make sure your information is up to date, so you don’t miss out on any of your Treaty Rights information and opportunities. Note: We do not have a shared database with Membership so information will need to be changed with us as well.

Gaming Commission Vacancy Attention Tribal Members Letters of interest are being solicited for a vacancy on the Gaming Commission. This is an appointed position of the Tribal Council pursuant to 18 GTBC § 205(a) The Gaming Commission is comprised of at least two, but not more than four, members appointed by the Tribal Council and one member elected by the membership of the Band. Commissioners will serve staggered terms of four years. There is no prohibition on successive terms of service. And 18 GTBC § 206 Qualifications for Membership; Length of Service: (a) To be elected or appointed to the Gaming Commission, an individual must be an enrolled member of the Grand Traverse Band and at least eighteen (18) years of age. (b) The Regulatory Department must conduct a comprehensive background investigation and credit check of each candidate or potential appointee. For each candidate or appointee, the Election Board or the Tribal Council, respectively, will determine whether the investigation reveals that the person’s prior activities, criminal record (if any), or reputations, habits, or associations pose a threat to the public interest, or threaten the effective regulation and control of gaming, or enhance the dangers of unsuitable, unfair or illegal practices, methods, or activities in the conduct of gaming. (c) A person must pass an independently administered alcohol and drug test substantially similar to the pre-employment test given to prospective tribal employees prior to being considered as an appointee or to be qualified as a candidate. Failure or refusal to submit to the test, or the presence of alcohol or illegal drugs at the time of testing, will disqualify the person from appointment or candidacy. (d) A person is not eligible for election, appointment, or continued service on the Gaming Commission if: (1) The person is simultaneously a Tribal Council Member, although this provision does not prevent non-voting participation under § 205(b) of this ordinance; (2) The person was convicted of, or entered a plea of guilty or no-contest to, a felony, a gaming offense, or any misdemeanor which involved an element of dishonesty or moral turpitude; (3) The person or any member of the person’s immediate family has a financial interest in any gaming activity or facility, other than the receipt of a per capita benefit, or an immediate family member’s employment in a gaming operation. (4) The person is employed by any gaming operation. This appointment will be for a 4-year term. Please send letters of interest to: Attention: Tribal Council GTB of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians 2605 N.W. Bayshore Drive Peshawbestown, MI 49682

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April / 2021 Ziisabaakadoki / Aagame Giizis (Sugar / Snow Shoe Moon)

ERAP / Human Services

Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP) Funded through the US Dept of Treasure Eligibility: An “eligible household” is defined as a Tribal Member renter household in the 6 County Service Area (Antrim, Benzie, Charlevoix, Grand Traverse, Leelanau, Manistee) in which at least one or more individuals meets the following criteria: i. Qualifies for unemployment or has experienced a reduction in household income, incurred significant costs, or experienced a financial hardship due to COVID-19; ii. Demonstrates a risk of experiencing homelessness or housing instability; and iii. Has a household income at or below 80 percent of the area median. Household income is determined as either the household’s total income for calendar year 2020 or the households’ monthly income at the time of application. For household incomes determined using the latter method, income eligibility must be redetermined every 3 months.

assistance at the end of the three-month period if needed and the overall time limit for assistance is not exceeded. This program is not allowable on individual rooms rented or lot rent. Application Process An application for rental assistance may be submitted by either an eligible household or by a landlord on behalf of that eligible household. Households and landlords must apply through programs established by Grand Traverse Band Housing. In general, funds will be paid directly to landlords and utility service providers. Please call Grand Traverse Band Housing 231.534.7800 or visit the Housing tab at www.gtbindians.org to receive an application.

Available Assistance Eligible households may receive up to 12 months of assistance to ensure housing stability. The payments can cover rent, rental arrears, utilities and home energy costs, utilities and home energy costs arrears, and other expenses related to housing. (Arrearages allowable back to March 13, 2020) Funds will expire on December 31, 2021. Once a household’s rental arrears are reduced, grantees may only commit to providing future assistance for up to three months at a time. Households may reapply for additional

Human Services Program New Staff The Grand Traverse Band Human Services Program will continue to work as efficiently and safely as possible to assist each member, while continuing to protect our community and remain safe through these difficult times. Call us and find out how to submit a Human Services Application for LIHEAP and RAO Food and Energy Assistance today! Haley Lamson Boozhoo! My name is Haley Lamson, Program Director and Intake Coordinator of the Grand Traverse Band Human Services Program. I started my journey here at the end of January of this year and am so proud and blessed to be able to assist this amazing community in times of hardship and need. COVID-19 has been a challenge for many of us and our response to these challenges is what defines us, and not the issue itself. I am looking forward to giving back to the community in any way that I can. Miigwetch! Office Phone: 231-534-7906 Fax: 231-534-7706

Alicia Hall Alicia Hall has been with the Grand Traverse Band for a little over a year now and worked as one of the Peer Recovery Coaches throughout the Pandemic. She is now providing services as the Intake Coordinator Specialist through our Human Services Program and we are so grateful for all her hard work! Activities that she enjoys doing when she has free time is listening to music, watching movies, and spending time with her family including her nieces and nephews. Office Phone: 231-534-7907 Fax: 231-534-7706

Quick Glance at the Human Services Program See if your household qualifies for the LIHEAP and RAO Energy Assistance Program based on annual income Household Size Maximum Income 1 $27,981 2 $36,591 3 $45,200 4 $53,810 5 $62,420 6 $71,029 Eligibility for the LIHEAP Emergency Heating/Cooling Assistance Program is determined by a point rating system based on type of home, type of fuel, household size with additional points (funds) allotted for households with members receiving a Veterans pension, SSDI, elderly, and young children. RAO Program based on 100% FY 21 HUD Income Guidelines published and adjusted annually. Eligibility Guidelines Household Size Maximum Income 1 $50,438 2 $57,625 3 $64,813 4 $72,000 5 $77,813 6 $83,562 7 $89,312 RAO Emergency Heating Assistance is available to GTB Tribal Member households who qualify by income for electric or heating bills assistance per fiscal year. $200 max per household. $400 for GTB Elders or members receiving Social Security, Disability or VA Pension/Retirement max. GTB NEWS  23


GTB NEWSLETTER

April / 2021 Ziisabaakadoki / Aagame Giizis (Sugar / Snow Shoe Moon)

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