GTB
NEWS
GTB NEWSLETTER
March / 2021 Naabdin Giizis (Snow Crust Moon)
A publication of the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians All Rights Reserved ©
People Braved Freezing Temperatures To Receive Their COVID Vaccinations February 10th, 2021, The Grand Traverse Band held a large scale vaccination. With up to 200 vaccinations administered to gaming employee’s and non-GTB members.
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Chairman’s Article To The Membership
Councilor Kewaygoshkum’s Article To The Membership
COVID-19 Vaccine Registration: A Call To Action
Public Safety Updates and Information
GTB NEWS 1
Explore This Month / Chairman’s Letter
March / 2021 Naabdin Giizis (Snow Crust 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
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Councilor Article 2% Allocation Elders Update Elders Birthdays Caregiver App COVID-19 Vaccines Public Safety NYCALC
Rep. Deb Haaland’s Appointment as Secretary of the Interior. There has been a huge wave of support across Indian Country for President Biden’s nomination of Rep. Deb Haaland’s (D-N.M.) appointment as Secretary of the Interior, an agency that administers the U.S. trust responsibility to American Indians and Alaskan Natives. Rep. Haaland is an enrolled member of the Pueblo of Laguna. A hearing was held on February 23rd and hopefully by the time you read this article she has been confirmed as the first Native American to serve as a Cabinet Secretary. The Secretary of the Interior is the eighth person in the presidential order of succession, and the first of the Cabinet members. Last December she was quoted as saying that “[a] voice like mine has never been a Cabinet secretary or at the head of the Department of Interior,” Haaland tweeted Thursday night. “ ... I’ll be fierce for all of us, our planet, and all of our protected land.” (https:// www.washingtonpost.com/climate-environment/2020/12/17/debhaaland-interior-secretary-biden/). I am confident that she will accomplish that, and much more. Lands Claim Presentation. On 2/9/21, the General Counsel, John F. Petoskey, and I made a presentation to the Leelanau Township Board, explaining the tribe’s position in its 5th Amendment lands claim issue and requesting support of the Board. I’m happy to report that the township board moved to adopt GTB’s proposed letter of support. We are currently in a holding pattern until key presidential appointments are made and confirmed. GTB Onaadidin-giizis (March) Moment: Approval of GTB Constitution anii Booshoo! The GTB Constitution was approved by Ross O. Swimmer, Assistant Secretary – Indian Affairs, on March 29, 1988, stating the Constitution was effective the same date. As the Constitution states:
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“Pursuant to a Secretarial election authorized by the Acting Assistant Secretary – Indian Affairs on December 23, 1987, the attached Constitution of the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians was submitted to the qualified voters of the Tribe and on Feb. 24, 1988 was duly adopted by a vote of 376 for and 47 against and 3 cast ballots found spoiled or mutilated in an election in which at least 30 per cent (30%) of the 635 members entitled to vote, cast their ballot in accordance with Section 16 of the Indian Reorganization Act of June 18, 1934, (48 Stat. 984) as amended by the Act of June 15, 1935. (49 Stat. 378) and May 1, 1936 (49 Stat. 1250). Signatories: Alvin G. Picotte, Chairman, Election Board; Catherine C. Baldwin, Election Board Member, and Henry Andrews, Election Board Member; on February 25, 1988. [GTB Constitution, Article XVII – Certificate of Results of Election.]” Beginning with Federal Recognition on May 27, 1980, GTB’s Interim Tribal Council (1980 – 1988) consisted of the following tribal leaders during this 8-year time period: Ardith “Dodie” Harris (Chair); Joseph C. “Buddy” Raphael (Chair); Gregory Bailey; Josephine Bailey; George E. Bennett; Cynthia Chippewa; Darlene Chippewa; Phillip Chippewa, Sr.; Arthur “Art” Duhamel; Lili London; Mable May; Leonard B. Miller; Freda Schwander; Lou Scott; Ruby Ward; and Jean Warren. Article VII, Elections, under the newly approved Tribal Constitution required GTB’s first election of Tribal Council members, to be conducted no later than 180 days after the Tribal Constitution was approved. The Constitution also called for the appointment of the first Election Board within 30 days after the Tribal Constitution was approved. The year 1988 was a busy time for our tribal community! The first elected Tribal Council (1988 – 1990) consisted of the following tribal leaders: Joseph C. “Buddy” Raphael, Chair; Percy “Chief” Anderson, Jr.; Gregory Bailey; Chris Bussey; Jack Chambers, Jr.; Louise Kane; and Leonard B. Miller. The first resolution passed by the Tribal Council after 3/29/1988 was the Enrollment Ordinance, and subsequent 1988 resolutions continued funding requests for services to tribal members and the establishment and growth of infrastructure in Peshawbestown.
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FishPass Project. The following are excerpts from the Chairman’s written response to the project’s legal challenge: I am here to write about the FishPass Project and the February 17th Judge Powers decision to enjoin the 20 year, multiagency, multi-million-dollar project based on language in the Traverse City Charter on the definition of “parkland purpose”. Now the definition of “parkland purpose” is a purpose that meets the definition of the Traverse City Charter and whatever commonlaw definition can be used to establish the definition. Essentially any definition is circular, and like all definitions, is subject to contested arguments of selective text between the parties to the litigation. (GTB is not a party to the litigation.) Whatever definition prevails is the subject of relative authority of the entity announcing the definition. Courts are hierarchical and circular definition stop rolling their meaning at the top of the hill, pushing the circular rock up the hill of meaning to the next court. I cannot win this definitional argument, no matter the position taken, nor is that the real issue that FishPass represents in my view. I am also here to write about the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians’ commitment to Boardman/Ottaway River FishPass project. For nearly 20 years, GTB has been a leader in the Boardman River Ecosystem Restoration efforts, and for over a decade, we have been an integral part of FishPass. FishPass, allows water and passage of fish in an open flow, unimpeded, as opposed to the previous “ladder” passage. The principal distinction is that the FishPass is selective in the species permitted to pass. GTB, like the Great Lakes Restoration Project, is attempting to rehabilitate and reestablish the original ecosystem of the Great Lakes and in-land lakes. This means bringing back brook trout, grayling, perch and walleye, some of the original species, and excluding steelhead and salmon, introduced in the 1960s to the detriment of the original species. Environmental, evidenced based lake and fish management is a goal of the FishPass. This also aligns with the cultural and historical values and goals of GTB. Nevertheless, this challenge or restoration requires new innovative processes to address the mistakes of the past and after years of thorough federal and state agency environmental review, with notice and comment from hundreds of citizens from communities connected to our shared waterway, the FishPass was selected after the considered opinion of all the state, federal and tribal participants.
March / 2021 Naabdin Giizis (Snow Crust Moon) The merits of the 13th Circuit Court pending action by a single person, the definition of “parkland purposes” must be weighed against the established detailed federal and state environmental review conducted over more than a decade that included hundreds of stakeholders representing the region and its multiple communities and our diverse cultures. We are disappointed, given the detailed environmental record and review by state and federal agencies over many years, that one opinion, who knew that “parkland purposes” was such a contested issue, late in the process in a single Circuit Court action has jeopardized the vision and wishes of many. GTB believes in the merits of the current FishPass design and we support, like most of the participants over many years, the completion of the project as originally designed and authorized. GTB’s support of the current FishPass design is not an attack on the civil court action, nor on the petitioner in the civil court action. Nevertheless, GTB believes that current civil court action is a frivolous lawsuit that should be summarily dismissed and the FishPass project should proceed expeditiously. “Parkland purposes,” in any attempt at definition can be broad or narrow, ratcheted up or down, to suit the ends of the decision, but ultimately is circular and a means to a desired end. The real issue is not parkland purposes; the real issue is restoration of the river, the great lakes and the environment. FishPass is essential to the real issue. We are confident that FishPass, like the river, will find a way. The substantive issue is river restoration. The process issue is the detail administrative procedure over the last 20 years that have addressed the merits of river restoration in the context of fish species: native vs. nonnative, a rich metaphor for other matters too, but let’s not make this personal. When we work together, we all win. This completion of FishPass will mark a turning point in the healing of the Ottaway River. From a waterway once plagued by impenetrable dams, the river will be restored and healed to allow for the passage of native fishes like nmé, the sturgeon. From a resource bound with wire fences, FishPass will provide universal accessibility to all beings so they may live and prosper in harmony with our shared beautiful river. Our shared efforts to protect and revive this watershed represent the foundation of how GTB views our relationship with the natural world. This work is sacred and we are deeply connected to it. This fishery, and the river are of paramount significance to our way of life, our culture and economy. FishPass is a gift to benefit all people for generations to come, and we are committed to seeing it through. The following is a link to the Project’s website: http://www.glfc.org/fishpass.php. COVID Presidential Remembrance. President Biden held a remembrance ceremony at the White House on February 22, 2021 to honor and mourn the 500,000 lives lost to COVID-19 in the United States. The rate of infections has been going down – and the number of vaccinations is going up – but approximately 2,000 people in the United States are still dying from this disease every day. A recording of this heartfelt remembrance can be see here: https://www.npr. org/2021/02/22/970155352/white-house-to-honor-victims-of-thecoronavirus-in-evening-ceremony. My deepest condolences to those who have lost their lives to this terrible disease, including our tribal members and Native brothers and sisters across the nation. Vaccine Distribution. The current challenge, on top of the continuous testing that needs to occur, is the distribution of vaccines. The issue of supply (challenges of manufacture and delivery) and demand (the need to provide coverage for all) is overwhelming, but the tribe is working hard to get as many vaccines and people vaccinated as soon as possible. Please take full advantage of the health services that are available – Tribal Members can obtain their vaccinations at the GTB Health Services no matter where you reside; please contact the clinic for more information. It is critically important to protect your health and the people in your life, and the more people that get vaccinated the sooner we could possibly approach a more normal lifestyle.
NWAC Article as living in this world as we know it today. We also live in two worlds, which allows us to also observe the world as it we know it as Anishinaabe along with the cultural observations of others. The following events all occur within one week in March: Daylight Savings Time. Daylight Savings Time basically starts the second Sunday in March and ends the first Sunday in November, and this year it begins March 14th and will end on November 7th. One way to look at it is, spring ahead and fall behind, and many people have their own way to remind themselves. St. Patrick’s Day. St. Patrick’s Day occurs annually on March 17th in memory of Ireland’s patron saint St. Patrick, and is mainly a celebration of Irish-American culture in the U.S. involving parades and celebrations colored in green. Ziigwan (Spring) Begins. In our history this was usually the time to move to sugar bush and meeting up with people you haven’t seen over the harsh winter months. It was also a time for fishing, trapping, and gathering birch bark for canoe building. Some refer to the first day of spring as the spring equinox, others the March equinox and yet others the vernal equinox, which basically means that the sun crosses the equator in the Northern Hemisphere as it heads north in the sky (and towards Niibin/summer!). This year the official start of spring is March 20th. Spring is a symbol of rebirth and new beginnings and has special meaning during these challenging times – here’s to the renewal of our spirits! E-mkowaataagozijig (Sharing Their Knowledge) Elders Forum. We as Anishinaabek people must protect ourselves and our community during these challenging times, and the use of electronic communications is both a plus and a minus – we can continue to carry on governmental business, but we lose the human connections at the same time. That being said, it was beautiful to enjoy the E-mkowaataagozijig (Sharing Their Knowledge) Elders Forum provided by the GTB Anishinaabemowin Program in collaboration with Anishinaabemowin-Teg via Zoom – listening to our native language between fluents, and to the teachings and stories as interpreted by Isadore via Zoom’s chat feature for those of us still learning Anishinaabemowin. Chi Miigwetch for this opportunity that speaks to our heart. It was the next best thing to being there, and we’re looking forward to more exposure to eyaawing – who we are. 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 hand-washing, 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:
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
Onaadidin-giizis (March) 2021 Events. Onaadidin-giizis is also known as the Snow Crust Moon. We have our native cultural teachings in interpreting natural events related to the time of day and seasons of the year, and celebrations of other cultures, that we as Anishinaabek people can appreciate
GTB NEWS 3
Councilor’s Update
March / 2021 Naabdin Giizis (Snow Crust Moon)
From the Office of Tribal Councilor Robert Kewaygoshkum
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h-Boozhoo Aanii --Thank you for taking the time to read the February 2021 edition of GTB newsletter. James has a lot of interesting articles on everything, and I hope you find this month’s newsletter useful and informative. Council is pleased to report that our Communications Department is working to make our newsletters available; but please be patient, we have only one person in the department. It gives me great satisfaction to say that 2021 is off to a good start. There is a lot of positive activity within our community and we are working hard to come up with solutions to every challenge we face. We are still conducting many of our government & EDC meetings on-line using Zoom or by conference call, which in the Tribal Council case included meetings with the Attorney, Tribal Manager, weekly round table meetings with the Chairman & Councilors, weekly staff meetings, and many meetings on specific issues involving COVID-19 with our Health director’s response as well as many other topics. Council is pleased to report that the progress of COVID vaccinations has been steady and GTB Health Services (PHS) is already serving patients aged 35 and over with high risk conditions. As you’ll recall they started with Elders aged 80 and over and have been working their way down through the age groups. At the time of this writing end of January & first part of February. Our Health Director-- Soumit Pendharkar, MHA, FACHE as reported that our goal is to vaccinate 70% of service area membership to reach herd immunity level. Here is the breakdown so far: Vaccine Doses Given: Individuals vaccinated: • • •
Moderna = 620 Pfizer = 73 Total = 693 Doses
Getting the COVID-10 vaccine will not only reduce your risk of getting sick or seriously ill from the virus, but it will also help prevent the spread of the virus to others. Vaccines stimulate your immune system which will help prevent you from contracting the virus. The strength of the immune system is especially important those who are more vulnerable to serious illness, like Elders and individuals with pre-existing conditions. As our Health Director Soumit has pointed out, sometimes after vaccination, the process of your body building immunity can cause symptoms. However, these symptoms are normal and a sign that your body is responding correctly. If by chance you do not read the monthly newsletter, I want to repeat something I included. It may be an important piece of information for you, depending where you get your healthcare. A good question surfaced during the Council Round table meeting that I thought was timely and important. It was a question about our citizens that live outside our service area having access to the vaccine. The answer was a qualified “yes. Natives are good people. Point being, if you live outside the service area and would like to schedule an appointment for the vaccine, please reach out to the tribal clinic. the helpline can be reached by calling 1-231534-7475. Leave your name & phone number & best time to reach you & the clinic will return your call to schedule you for the next available slot. Despite the vaccine being available, it does not make us completely immune to the virus. Remember, it is only about 95% effective, and there is still the possibility of contracting the virus even after you have been vaccinated. Leave you with a thought; even in a long and chilling cold winter, there is a very bright sunrise streaming through clouds that lights up the sky, the snow, and frozen earth. Today, there are rays of hope in our future. We have been through one of the worst years in modern history, not only in our Tribe but the whole world has. But we know there are better times coming. Where do we find the strength and hope to move on? The strength comes from all of you. With that the Council want to say chi miigwech to everyone out there that is doing their best to make a difference in these unprecedented times that we are living in today. You know who you are! Council may not have the answers to all the situations that we are going through today, but we have the experience and knowledge of what not to do, and we will continue to be of service to our community and everyone that needs support I wish you well, Pama
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:
1:2 doses = 442 2:2 doses = 126 Total = 568 Individuals
Percentage of GTB Membership • 23% of service area membership (368/1576 members, age 16 and over) • 53% of our area Elders (221/417 Elders) • 90 spouses/household members >55 yrs. old • 33 Elders of other tribes but live within community
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
4 GTB NEWS
1.7.20
TCSS 11/24/21 TCRS 12/15/21 TCSS 12/29/21
March / 2021 Naabdin Giizis (Snow Crust Moon)
Public Notices
Obituaries Respectfully Acknowledging Our Loss Keith Alan Smeltzer GTB Tribal Elder Battle Creek, MI 11/17/1961 – 2/11/2021
Respectfully Acknowledging Our Loss
GTB Emergency Phone Numbers FY2021 Cell Number
Rebecca Oien
Tribal Manager
Tribal Manager Executive Assistant — Doris Winslow
Doris Winslow (Intermin) Jolanda Murphy
DEPARTMENT 1 Elders DEPARTMENT 2 Public Safety
DEPARTMENT 3
Tribal Management
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
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Tribal Court Natural Resources Regulatory Life Long Learning
Aasland, Catori Rynn Alexander, John Patrick Anewishki, Alicia Lynn Anewishki, Brandon Leo Beach, Jennifer Dawn Becker, Ariel Christina Bessert, Heather Leigh Bigjoe, John-Al Bonilla, Teresa Victoria Bradford, Austin Michael Bradford, Felecia Sue Brenner, Jon Nathaniel Bronson, Nokomis Kahana Calkins, Benjamin Richard Calkins, Robert Joseph Case, Miigizi Miigwan Castaneda, Sonya Emmaline Chavez, Anthony Jonas Chippewa, Ki-Ja-Te Everette Chippewa, Victoria Hailey Compo, Adan Earl Connor, Celeste Dudley, Jacob Silas Dunleavy, Korrie Lee Fish, William John Gregory Francis, Kendall Lars Gannon, Hallie Machelle Gannon, Marquita Nicole Germaine, Ian Michael Gingway, Diane Lynn
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
Updated Addresses Needed
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Stella Chippewa Michelle Shaw Mari Raphael
Joyce McClellan Delores Wonegeshik
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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
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866-0381
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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
Please update address thru Membership Office @ 231-534-7670 Hall, Azalea Jane Hancock, Duane Ronald Hirth, Kenneth Louis Huhtala, Jody Lee Huhtala, Joel Reid Kalinowski, Paul Lee Marshall Kiogima, Calvin Jacob Kissee, Rosetta Marie Kline, Laci Yvonne Rose Koopman, James Fisher Kutchey, Kelly Wayne Lopez, Jeremie Lee Marez, Harriett Arlene Marlin, Cheyenne Marie Mascorro, Gerri Darlene Massey, Chayton Derek McDonald Jr., Eric Francis McQueer, Charles William 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 Palmer, William Claude Peltonen, Jacob Jeremy Perez, Santana Lynda Peters, Elizabeth Joyce
Petoskey, Jason Lee Pierce, Barbara Jean Posada, Hector Raphael, Joseph Lee Russell, Cerise Waqsejuan Sawmick Jr., Gregory George Seeley, George Franklin Shomin, Francis John Sims, Eric Matthew Skop, Bruce Lloyd Sorg, Kandy Lynn Sorg, Rodger Douglas 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 Veloz, Roseann Marie White, Curtis Clarence Wiser Jr., Frederick Alexander Woollard, Trevor Kenneth Young, Michael Alan
GTB NEWS 5
BSSW / GTED
March / 2021 Naabdin Giizis (Snow Crust 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
March / 2021 Naabdin Giizis (Snow Crust Moon)
BSSW / GTED
Grand Traverse Economic Development (GTED) Updates GTED SPOTLIGHT IS ON TECHNOLOGY! echnology is all around us and certainly has been in many T forms all our lives. It ebbs, flows and changes almost daily. We all have technology that we embrace and makes our lives easier;
and we possibly have that one thing that we must deal with that confounds and annoys us…But reluctantly we know it’s necessary. It cannot always be Netflix all the time. GTED is all about technology! Technology is necessary in both how we operate internally, how we connect with each other, our members and our customers and in how we continue to strive and grow our businesses. Three key components to our success in this arena are: Terraport, GTBFIT and GTBEST. These key businesses operate in critical and competitive spaces and we are very proud of our efforts and activities in this marketplace. Terraport brings over 20 years of experience bringing Telecom, Satellite, Wireless Network and Infrastructure to our clients worldwide. Clients include Commercial enterprises, State, Local and Federal Agencies, including the U.S. Department of Defense. GTBFIT offers a full range of IT services and solutions including: Full support services, Consulting, Cybersecurity Website and Application Development and Data Analysis. GTBEST offers an amazing array of IT and Security solutions including: Website development and hosting, Telecommunications and Satellite Communications Services and Solutions and Advanced analytics. We have incredibly seasoned staff helping service our valuable clients and this depth of knowledge and networks have opened the doors to exciting projects like: APCSS Fiber upgrade/installation in Hawaii, LMR Site Tower Repair Project, providing parts, equipment and repairs for Army owned Land Mobile Radio LMR towers at Joint Bases Lewis McChord (JBLM) and Yakima Training Center (YTC) LMR sites, in Washington State, Antenna Repair Project at Zelatched Point., Silverdale, Washington, Fiber Optic Cable Installation at Network Enterprise Center Fort Huachuca, Arizona and the installation of a BJCTA Charging System Installation in Birmingham, Alabama.
Meet the GTED Board of Directors: Tom Shomin, Vice Chair
Tom brings extensive leadership and business experience. He is retired from his service at GTB and we welcome his knowledge on the Board.
Walter “Duke” Maniteau, Treasurer/Secretary
Duke’s vast knowledge of construction and development has been and continues to be invaluable.
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.
Jon Anderson, PE, Vice-Chairman
We welcome Jon’s input and experience as a civil engineer and community small business owner.
SUBSIDIARY CEO UPDATES Building waterjet capabilities with the installation of a 10 ton crane (we now can maneuver larger pieces of metal onto the machine instead of being limited to what a person can lift) Building up work station capabilities with a new 80” bed Vision Wide CNC machine (able to machine larger pieces and more pieces simultaneously) Continuing to build our weld department staff (Two new hires. We need more to run a second shift) All to meet or exceed customer demands and continue to build lasting relationships with our clients. From Trish Harris, CEO Bay Shore Steel Works GTBHS has been aggressively working toward sales of medical supplies with one of our customers. Additionally, we have been building our network and have formed relationships and potential partnerships with organizations in Canada to bring a total healthcare system to several First Nations communities. From Angie Sanchez, MBA, President & Chief Executive Officer, GTB Health Solutions
GTED Hiring Spotlight Bay Shore Steel Works is looking to hire a Waterjet Operator. Last month we talked about the new Flow Waterjet machine featured at BSSW and to keep us productive and producing, we need a Waterjet Operator. As we shared previously, the 1930’s yielded the breakthroughs in water jet cutting techniques, but much has changed and we need a quality individual to join our team. Skills and responsibilities include operating, loading and unloading material parts, proving programs, operating controls, deburring and inspection of quality parts for conformance to requirements. Also, studying and interpreting drawings,manuals, specifications, or sample parts to determine dimensions and
tolerances of finished products, sequence of operations and set up requirements. Detecting equipment malfunctions and adjust to correct and controlling media as required to ensure quality of productions are also one of the many responsibilities. Talk about technology! We are also able to offer training in house and offer assistance with certification and continuing education for some positions. Fun Fact: Once the Intensifier Pump pushes the water through a high-pressure tube and it is focused into a thin beam, it exits the nozzle for cutting at the speed on the order of Mach 3, around 2,500 ft/s (760 m/s). All current job openings at GTED: https://gtedusa.net/ careers/
Product Spotlight Bay Shore Steel Works is proud of its talented weld staff with Department of Defense specified weld certifications able to produce parts for military vehicles, including an ACV (Amphibious Combat Vehicle). This weld is part of a “Tow Eye” and is made out of Military-Grade steel and fabricated and welded with Military-Grade procedures and expectations. All in all this piece features 200 inches of weld per part and take approximately 3 hours to weld.
GTB NEWS 7
GTB 2%
March / 2021 Naabdin Giizis (Snow Crust Moon)
GTB Announces $742,059.95 In Local 2% Funds Since the 2 percent allocation began in 1994, the Grand Traverse Band has allocated $42,195,628.54 to local organizations.
T
he Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa & Chippewa Indians is pleased to announce the distribution of $742,059.95 of gaming revenue allocation to local units of government. The dollars have been allocated for 50 local applicants as part of the Tribe’s “2 percent allocation,” which takes place twice per year. Under the terms of a consent decree settling Tribes v. Engler (Case no. 1:90-CV-611, U.S. District Court, Western District Michigan), the Grand Traverse Band allocates 2 percent of its video gaming revenue to local units of government, as defined in the stipulation, no later than 60 days after October 1st and March 31st of each year. This payment schedule was modified with the consent of the State of Michigan to July 31st and January 31st of each year because the fiscal year of the Grand Traverse Band’s gaming operation is calendar-based. Since the 2 percent allocation began in 1994, the Grand Traverse Band has allocated $42,195,628.54 to local organizations. “The test for determining the distribution standards, as outlined in Tribes v. Engler are: “Each tribe shall determine which local unit or units of government shall receive payments
and the amounts thereof; provided however, the guidelines governing the tribes in making said determinations shall be based upon compensating said local units of government for governmental services provided to the tribes and for impacts associated with the existence and location of the tribal casino in its vicinity; and provided further, however…each local unit of government shall receive no less than an amount equivalent to its share of ad valorem property taxes…” For this 2% cycle, the Tribal Council voted to determine which organizations would receive allocations. Of the 68 applications received, totaling $1,351,953.39 in requests, the Tribal Council awarded 50 applicants for a total of $742,059.95. The Grand Traverse Band will make its decision regarding the first-half 2021 Two Percent allocation in July 2021. It is with great pleasure that the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa & Chippewa Indians is able to provide all citizens of Northern Michigan with these services that are furnished solely by gaming revenues. ( A full breakdown of information and allocation can be found at http://gtbindians.org/pubinfo.asp )
Gov’t to Gov’t Agreement - Benzie County: $19,162.50
Leelanau County Board of Commissioners: $8,096.00
Gov’t to Gov’t Agreement - Charlevoix County: $12,775.00
Leelanau County Board of Commissioners: $10,000.00
Gov’t to Gov’t Agreement - Leelanau County: $63,875.00
Leelanau County Board of Commissioners: $20,600.00
Acme Township: $25,000.00
Leelanau County Board of Commissioners: $10,000.00
Almira Township Fire & EMS Department: $759.98
Leelanau Township: $12,000.00
Antrim County: $4,050.00
Mayfield Township: $7,917.89
Benzie Conservation District: $4,762.00
Milton Township Fire Department: $12,813.00
Benzie County Sheriff’s Office: $16,350.00
Northwestern Michigan College: $24,886.00
Benzonia Township: $12,000.00
Paradise Township: $11,990.00
Benzonia Township - Fire Department: $21,266.65
Solon Township: $7,000.06
Bingham Township: $8,000.00
Star Township Firefighters: $12,000.00
Charlevoix EMS: $7,000.00
Suttons Bay-Bingham Fire&Rescue Authority: $13,925.09
City of Charlevoix: $14,000.00
The Recreational Authority of Traverse City
City of Frankfort: $12,000.00
And Garfield Township
Elk Rapids High School: $3,576.56
The Village of Honor: $32,106.00
Elk Rapids Township Fire Department: $16,000.00
Traverse Area District Library: $16,500.00
Elmwood Township Fire and Rescue: $4,850.00
Traverse Bay Intermediate School District: $7,800.00
Fife Lake Area Emergency Services Authority: $10,350.00
Traverse Bay Intermediate School District: $10,000.00
Forest Area Community Schools: $8,000.00
Village of Beulah: $20,000.00
Glen Lake Fire Department: $1,219.98
Village of Ellsworth: $7,800.00
Grand Traverse County Board of Commissioners: $30,000.00
Whitewater Township: $20,000.00
Grand Traverse County Board of Commissioners: $7,325.00
Whitewater Township Fire Department: $14,700.00
: $40,040.00
Grand Traverse County Board of Commissioners: $58,200.00 Grand Traverse County Board of Commissioners: $18,534.76 Grand Traverse Metro Fire Department: $20,710.92 Homestead Township: $8,000.00 Kingsley Area School: $3,122.56 Leelanau county Board of Commissioners: $5,000.00
8 GTB NEWS
Total 2% 2nd Half 2020: $742,059.95
March / 2021 Naabdin Giizis (Snow Crust Moon)
Data Genocide of Native Americans
U.S. States Are Failing To Track COVID-19 Data For Native People Data Genocide of American Indians and Alaska Natives in COVID-19 Data eattle, WA—The Urban Indian Health Institute (UIHI) released S a report today that graded all 50 states on the quality, collection, and reporting of COVID-19 data as it relates to
American Indian and Alaska Native people. The report states that poor data collection standards implemented by states has resulted in a substantial gap in understanding the disproportionate impact of COVID-19 on people of color across the U.S., specifically American Indians and Alaska Natives. “This is a data genocide on Native people,” said Abigail EchoHawk, director or UIHI. “American Indians and Alaska Natives are dying at disproportionate rates and decision makers don’t even have accurate data to ensure we are properly funded and resourced.” The UIHI report graded states based on four categories: if American Indian and Alaska Native populations were included on state dashboards; the percentage of cases with complete racial information on state dashboards; the percentage of confirmed cases reported from states to the CDC; and the percentage of confirmed cases with complete racial information on the CDC database. The poorest score came from Texas, followed by New York, New Hampshire, Maryland, and West Virginia, respectively. They all received an overall grade of “F.” Minnesota, Vermont, Maine, and Arkansas were the only states that received an overall “A” grade. The accumulative grade of all 50 states was a D+. “It is unacceptable for states to exclude us from the data, including my home state of Maryland,” said Kerry Hawk Lessard, executive director of Native American Lifelines. “States need to be held accountable for their actions. Indigenous communities are working day and night to address the pandemic, but some of the largest barriers are the ones out of our control.” It is required by the CARES Act that states across the country collect race and ethnicity in COVID-19 data, but many states have not collected or reported it accurately. In February 2021, the CDC reported that 48% of race and ethnicity was missing from COVID-19 vaccination data. Echo-Hawk will provide a briefing today to the Select Subcommittee on the Coronavirus Crisis about the current state of COVID-19 and vaccinations in Native communities, as well as the data issues that have continued throughout the pandemic. Article Courtesy of, Urban Indian Health Institute February 19th, 2021
“This information is meant to address the data genocide happening to Indigenous people. We must urge state and federal policy actions to respond to the parallel crisis we are facing in our public health data systems.” – ABIGAIL ECHO-HAWK (PAWNEE), DIRECTOR OF URBAN INDIAN HEALTH INSTITUTE
GTB NEWS 9
Elders Calendars
March / 2021 Naabdin Giizis (Snow Crust Moon)
Elder’s Calendars Elders Emergency Forms for elders 55 – up living in the service area. Please submit to your nearest Coordinator. Care Giver program is starting a new year. Applications with a complete packet is available and can be obtained through your site coordinator. Program length is April 1st- March 30, 2022. Farmers Market Applications are also available. Program Length June 1 – Oct 30th, 2021
Grand Traverse Band Elders March Menu 2021 Sun
Mon
Tue
1 Chicken & Rice Soup w/sandwich
Cook book – Don’t forget to send in your favorite recipe for the next version of elders cookbook. Submit your favorite recipes and receive a chance for win a doorprize. Include the name of recipe, ingredients, temperature along with your name.
5
6
9 Oatmeal w/strawberries, granola, brown sugar
10 Sliced Ham & Scallop potatoes w/bread
11 Macaroni & Cheese, hot dog w/green beans
12
13
16
17 St. Patrick Day
19
20
Egg McMuffin w/ sausage Pattie, cheese Yogurt
Corn-beef, cabbage, potato’s& carrots w/dinner rolls
18 Hamburger gravy served w/mashed potatoes, cauliflower
22 Chili w/sandwich w/ corn bread
23
24 Goulash w/ bread cup of peaches
25 Chicken salad sandwich w/cup of soup
26
27
29 Alfredo Chicken w/broccoli w/fruit
30 Breakfast taco’s (eggs, potato, bacon wrapped in tortilla
31
April 1
Pizza
Shepard's pie w/fruit and bread
15 Ham & Pea Soup w/sandwich w/bread or frybread Bag of salad mix
21
28
Sat
4 Chicken pot pie w/coleslaw
8 Beef & Vegetable w/sandwich
14
Fri
3 French Toast, Sausages Yogurt
Bag of Salad Mix
March menu is attached for your review.
Thu
2 Sloppy joe’s w/chips, pickle Fruit cup
Bag of Salad mix
7
Wed
Bag of salad mix
Yogurts bowl, granola, strawberries’
Menu subject to change. Milk and Bread offered each week. Sandwiches (cooks choice)
March activities is also available. Contact your coordinator to reserve your activity kit. Kits will be available at the beginning of March for pick up.
March Charlevoix Elders Activity Calendar 2021 Subtitle
FUN THINGS TO DO Let’s work together on these activities. When you are finished with a project, simply take a snapshot of it and send it to me, include your name and phone number. I will enter it into a drawing for a fabulous door prize! What can be easier than that? And so entertaining!! Sunday
Monday
Tuesday 1
Wednesday 2
Sudoku 7
8
9
15
22
28
10 GTB NEWS
30
12
13
18
19
20
Take photo & send to me for door prize entry 24
Sewing a Neck Scarf Curbside Hot Lunch @ Cvx Senior Center
6
Take photo & send to me for door prize entry 17
23
29 (O) 534-7066 © 492.4351
11
Exercise
Sewing a Neck Scarf Virginia Fields Charlevoix Site Coordinator
10
16
Saturday 5
Take photo & send to me for door prize entry
Crochet
Exercise 21
Friday 4
Sudoku
Learn to Crochet 14
Thursday 3
31 Call 231.547.5361 For 11:30 -12:30 pm pick up
25
26
Take photo & send to me for door prize entry
27
March / 2021 Naabdin Giizis (Snow Crust Moon)
Elders Calendars
Elder’s Calendars Grand Traverse Band Elders Leelanau Activity Calendar—March 2021 Call Greg Bailey 492-4976 or Wa’Sinade Raphael 866-1013 to reserve your Activity bag. Complete each weekly project, take a picture and send it to your coordinator to receive a raffle ticket for the end of the month drawing. “Complete the Irish Cross word puzzle in the newsletter for a bonus ticket” Sun
Mon
Tue
Wed
Thu
Fri
Sat
1 March activity kits picked up this week.
2
3
4
5
6
7
8 Birdhouse—1/ticket
9
10
11
12
13
14
15 St. Patrick week Photo shoot—take a picture of your best Irish portrait
16
17 St. Patrick
18
19
20
23
24
25
26
27
April 1
2
3
April 4th
5
Irish cookies
Bonus Tickets — 21
#1 Complete the “Cross Word Puzzle” in the newsletter, send in a photo with your signature on it.
22 Puzzle—1/ticket Return to program at the end of the month to share—1/ticket Bingo scratch – 1/ticket
# 2Take a picture of your Irish Dress up, send in a photo # 3 Easter Basket
28
#4 Submit your recipe card for the Elders Cookbook
29 Easter basket Make it for self or donate it - 2/tickets
Raffle drawing for March activities
Recipe for Cookbook—1/ticket
Benzie-Manistee Elders Activity Calendar March
2021
Something to do! On the cold days your in with nothing to do try these activities. Take a picture of your completed project and send it in with your name. So, you can be entered in for a drawing at the end of the month for a door prize! Call to reserve your monthly activity kit. Robbin@5347824 Cell# 492-4352 Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
1 Submit your recipe for Elders cookbook
Craft / Quilt Square for lap blanket
7 Quilt Square on going for the month
8
14 Call to pick up your quilt kit
12 Take A Picture of Craft/Send to your Elder Coordinator
13
18
19 Take A Picture of Craft/Send to your Elder Coordinator
20
25
26 Take A Picture of Craft/Send to your Elder Coordinator
27
Finish Craft
17 Finish Craft
Medicine Pouch
>>>>>>>>>>>> 22
>>>>>>>>>>>>> 23
24 Finish Craft
>>>>>>>>>>>>>
>>>>>>>>>>>>
6
11
>>>>>>>>>>>>> 16
Saturday 5
Take A Picture of Craft/Send to your Elder Coordinator
>>>>>>>>>>>>>> 10
>>>>>>>>>>>>
Craft / Quilt Square for lap blanket 28
Friday 4
Finish Craft >>>>>>>>>>>>>>
15
21
3
9
Craft / Quilt Square for lap blanket
Thursday
2
Senior activities got to Grand Traverse. org/SCN
Exercise and Yoga Program Schedule Mon / Thu @ 9am On Charter TV Channel 189 Young At Heart Senior Sing -a -long Schedule Mon/Fri @ 4pm On Charter TV Channel 189 Bonus ticket If you do exercise Mon /Thu or anyone of these days / Or the sing a long - Please call for Bonus entry
GTB NEWS 11
Elders Birthdays
March / 2021 Naabdin Giizis (Snow Crust Moon)
Elders Birthday’s “Mino-Dibishkaan!” - Happy Birthday! Sincerely, GTB News Staff & Membership Department Stanley Anthony
1-Mar
Ted
Richard Bailey
1-Mar
Michael Petoskey
11-Mar
Melvin Gossett
23-Mar
Francis Shomin
11-Mar
Steven Lewis
23-Mar
1-Mar
Roger
12-Mar
Lili Mae
23-Mar
Christina Wright
1-Mar
Kathleen Callaway
12-Mar
Alvin Ance
24-Mar
Cathy Griffes
3-Mar
Lon
13-Mar
Carolyn Bailey
24-Mar
Thomas Alexander
4-Mar
Scott Murrey
13-Mar
Lisa Smith-Leaureaux
24-Mar
Joseph Kenwabikise
4-Mar
Eileen Rasmussen
13-Mar
Glen
25-Mar
David Traylor
4-Mar
Christina Seeley
14-Mar
Thelma Bullis
25-Mar
Francis Wabanimkee
4-Mar
Mark Sherman
14-Mar
Elizabeth Cook
25-Mar
Alfred Campbell
5-Mar
Michelle Stranger
14-Mar
Shirley Emerick
25-Mar
Paul
5-Mar
Dennis Jacko
15-Mar
Mary Miller
25-Mar
Alexander Page
5-Mar
Carole Kiewiet
15-Mar
Manuel Reyes
25-Mar
Frank Shinos
5-Mar
Cathy Alexander
16-Mar
Ruth Anderson 26-Mar
Elizabeth Yates
5-Mar
Lolita Claucherty 16-Mar
Thurlow McClellan
26-Mar
Sylvester Paul
6-Mar
Stephen McClellan
16-Mar
Thomas Shomin
26-Mar
Alice Schmidt
6-Mar
Lynda Stapleton
16-Mar
Jolanda Murphy
27-Mar
Donna Chippewa
7-Mar
Karen Stevens
16-Mar
Kim
28-Mar
Mitchell Gauthier
7-Mar
Katherine Kissee
17-Mar
Joseph Stevens
28-Mar
Marcia Gould
7-Mar
Patrick Wabanimkee 17-Mar
Harold Winters
28-Mar
Barbara Wheeler
7-Mar
Arrow Hayes
18-Mar
Arthur Dembinski
29-Mar
Eugene Wilson
7-Mar
Patricia Norton
18-Mar
Vicki Dome
29-Mar
David Boda
8-Mar
Leanne Snowden
18-Mar
Peggy
29-Mar
David Crawford
8-Mar
Timothy Miller
19-Mar
Frederick Harter
29-Mar
Gissele Massey
8-Mar
Joanne Tuck
19-Mar
Linda Green
30-Mar
Sandra Witherspoon 8-Mar
James Brunk
20-Mar
Linda Woods
30-Mar
Laurie Hershberger 9-Mar
Robert Gingway
21-Mar
Penny Tunnicliff
31-Mar
Eddie Russell
Travis Page
21-Mar
Timothy Winters
31-Mar
Linda Snellenberger 9-Mar
Ron
Scott
21-Mar
Arthur Traylor
10-Mar
Kirk
Ance
22-Mar
James Walker
10-Mar
Wayne DeVerney
22-Mar
Miki
11-Mar
Rose
22-Mar
11-Mar
Raymond Chippewa
Gates
Garcia
Thomas Kutchey
9-Mar
Lamp
Bartholomew
DeVerney
Marshall
London
Bennett
Goddard
Hardley Schmidt
23-Mar
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
March / 2021 Naabdin Giizis (Snow Crust 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
March / 2021 Naabdin Giizis (Snow Crust 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:
March / 2021 Naabdin Giizis (Snow Crust Moon)
Youth Services
GTB Heritage Library’s March 2021 Zoom Events
Come celebrate Ziigwan (Spring) with 4 evenings of events on Zoom. The GTB Heritage Librarian Francis Carew will host 2 arts and craft demonstrations, Storytime, and perform a solo guitar recital. These events promote the Anishinaabe oral tradition, creativity and literacy in children, and the enjoyment of music. They are free, open to the public of all ages, and you can join anytime. Call or Email Francis to get an event Goody Bag-Used for the first three events. It contains all the necessary arts and craft materials and a copy of the story. Decorate your Sundial and Moccasins anyway you like. Take a picture of them and email or text it to Francis. The best decorated Sundial and Moccasins will be posted in the GTB Newsletter and a picture of you and your project will be posted in the Heritage Library. 1. Paper Plate Sundial: March 10, 2021, 6-7 PM.
2. Paper Plate Moccasins: March 17, 2021, 6-7 PM. 3. Storytime: March 24, 2021, 6-7 PM.
Rabbit and Bear Paws: Courage (Anishinaabe 7 Grandfathers Teaching)
4. Guitar Recital: March 31, 2021, 6-7 PM.
Classical, Flamenco, and Finger-style Jazz/Blues
To Join Each Event, Go To:
https://zoom.us/j/96197351040?pwd=QTBoOXJZU002NjlYbDdISW9vV2MyUT09
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.
GTB NEWS 15
March / 2021 Naabdin Giizis (Snow Crust Moon)
COVID-19: A Call To Action
COVID-19 vaccine: It’s your
Lets Heal Offers 24/7 Medical
turn to roll up your sleeves
Care From Your Smartphone
and get vaccinated!
or Computer
By: Soumit Pendharkar GTB Health Administrator
By: Soumit Pendharkar GTB Health Administrator
he impact of COVID-19 on our lives has affected us all. The ets Heal is a convenient way to get care. GTB now brings the T responsibility is ours, as a community, to help stop this virus. L power to connect you to a medical provider without leaving Now we have a new, safe, and effective tool to help us do that— the comfort, safety, and convenience of your home, or anywhere COVID-19 vaccines.
The GTB Health Department has vaccinated 33% of GTB Tribal Members living in the 6-county service area age 16 and over and 61% of GTB Elders living in the 6-county service area. The GTB Health Department has provided 1,233 1st and 2nd doses. We are currently opening up our vaccinations to all GTB Elders, GTB Tribal Members, GTB Employees, and GTB household members age 16 and over. Please call the GTB COVID-19 Vaccine Line today at 231-534-7475 to be scheduled or talk to your Elder Department or CHR contact for assistance. Preregistration forms can be found at GTBIndians.org >> Health Services >> Health Clinic >> GTB Health and Dental Clinic Registration Paperwork
else for that matter. Safe and secure, it’s the quality of care you need, made easier. Lets Heal allows you to connect in minutes with GTB Health Department providers during office hours through your smartphone, tablet, or computer for unlimited visits. 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.
Getting on-demand online care through Lets Heal is easy: 1. A valid email address is required. 2. Contact our Coordinator at (231) 534-7478 to request a Lets Heal account. 3. Download our iOS or Android mobile app. Search for “Lets Heal”. 4. We will create an account and you will receive an email welcoming you to the service. 5. Set up your username and password You can now have a medical visit when you need it! • Connect with your GTB Health Department provider or another Michigan licensed provider within minutes from anywhere, anytime, year-round. • GTB Tribal Members living in the 6-county service area are enabled for 4 urgent care visits with non-GTB Health Department providers for access 24/7/365. Additional visits will need to be purchased by individuals in advance. All GTB Health Department patients can access GTB Health Department providers for telehealth visits on an unlimited basis during normal business hours. Questions & Assistance If you have any other questions, please call our Coordinator at (231) 534-7478.
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
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.
March / 2021 Naabdin Giizis (Snow Crust Moon)
COVID-19: A Call To Action
COVID-19 Testing Moved Indoors!
Photo credit: James Sullivan
he Grand Traverse Band’s COVID-19 Testing area has been reTThe located inside to better serve you! new location is in the basement of the Medicine
Lodge, located next to the Police Station. The move comes as temperatures dropped and poor weather increased. With the new location staff are and patients are able to stay warm and stay clear of low temps and bad weather. Maintenence moved quickly to put up safety barriers and we’d like to thank them for their swift work!
Please pull-in to the receiving area, park your vehicle, and walk-in through the side door. All testing occurs by appointment only. Miigwetch!
- Written by, James Sullivan, Editor
Get Vaccinated to Protect Yourself, Family, and Community
American Indians and Alaska Natives are disproportionately affected by the COVID-19 pandemic
A vaccine helps people from catching a certain disease, like COVID-19. All vaccines are as safe as possible and are a simple way to prevent illness and community outbreaks. A vaccination is not a treatment for people who are already sick with COVID-19. Getting vaccinated helps everyone. → Know the facts and avoid sharing misinformation. → Start by sharing information from trusted sources like CDC.gov and IHS.gov → Encourage your loved ones to get vaccinated. → The more people in your community get vaccinated, the better everyone will be protected against COVID-19, especially those who are more vulnerable to serious illness, like elders and people in high-risk groups. → A COVID-19 vaccine will help you from spreading the disease, and reduce your risk of getting sick, being hospitalized, or dying. → COVID-19 vaccines are one of many important tools to help us stop this pandemic. It is important to use all the tools available to stop the pandemic, wear a mask, wash your hands, and watch your distance.
How to cope with anxiety related to vaccination
→ Stay connected with family and friends while keeping a safe physical distance. Take care of yourself and each other, and know when to get help. → Create a list of personal self-care activities you enjoy such as exercising, meditating, singing a traditional song, praying, or connecting with nature. → Take deep breaths and stretch. → Maintain a sense of hope and positive thinking and remember these strong feelings of stress and anxiety will fade.
We are all in this together. Show compassion for those most closely impacted. → Stay connected with family and friends through social media and video chat. → Connect with your community and others with drumming and dancing video via social media. → Attend a spiritual service through on-line streaming.
Ask your healthcare provider for more information.
GTB NEWS 17
COVID-19 Numbers
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March / 2021 Naabdin Giizis (Snow Crust Moon)
March / 2021 Naabdin Giizis (Snow Crust Moon)
Notice to GTB Members
Notice To GTB Members or many years GTB has been steadfast in opposing transmission F of petroleum through Line 5 in the Straits of Mackinac. By Resolution No. 15-33.2602 enacted February 18, 2015, we resolved
“that the Enbridge Line 5 pipelines should be removed from the Straits of Mackinac.” As authorized by Tribal Council motion enacted May 20, 2020, GTB currently is involved in litigation against Enbridge together with other Tribes and organizations in which we oppose construction of the tunnel that would enable continued operation of the inherently dangerous twin pipelines within the Straits for an extended period of years. Recently Enbridge contracted with “Dirt Divers Cultural Resources Management” company in an effort to minimize our arguments in this litigation. “Dirt Divers” has contacted individual tribal members seeking historical information about the Straits area. Please understand that GTB and other Tribes in the litigation are preparing testimony addressing historical and cultural resources, and that “Dirt Divers” is working against our interests. Therefore by motion enacted January 20, 2021, Tribal Council affirmed the Natural Resources & Environmental Committee motion to not support the efforts of “Dirt Divers” to contact GTB members. Although legal strategy considerations require us to maintain confidentiality, please also understand that GTB is assisting the State with respect to separate state and federal court litigations arising from the Michigan Department of Natural Resources’ revocation of the Line 5 easement and the Governor’s lawsuit to enforce the termination.
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March / 2021 Naabdin Giizis (Snow Crust Moon)
Public Safety Updates and Information
Public Safety Updates and Information Mask Up, Mask Right DHHS reminds Michiganders to M follow these tips when wearing a mask:
1. Make sure your mask fits snugly against your face. Gaps can let air with respiratory droplets leak in and out around the edges of the mask. 2. Pick a mask with layers to keep your respiratory droplets in and others’ out.A mask with layers will stop more respiratory droplets getting inside your mask or escaping from your mask if you are sick. Please see the graphic below, to help make the best choices when selecting a face mask. In addition, the CDC has recently recommended wearing two masks to increase protection against COVID-19. Double masking is an easy way to improve fit, which also improves protection. The more particles that are blocked, the better you are protected against getting COVID-19. Other options to improve fit include wearing a mask fitter or wearing a nylon covering (like a gaiter) over a mask.
ne cloth or medical mask blocks up to 40% of particles. O A cloth mask worn over a medical mask blocks 85% of particles, while two medical masks worn, or a medical mask knotted and tucked properly blocks 95% of particles. Those in need of a free mask can contact their local Community Action Agency or local DHHS office. Information around this outbreak is changing rapidly. The latest information is available at Michigan.gov/ Coronavirus and CDC.gov/Coronavirus. To learn more about the COVID-19 vaccine, visit Michigan.gov/COVIDVaccine. Double mask refers to a three-ply medical procedure mask covered by a three-ply cloth cotton mask.
A knotted and tucked medical procedure mask is created by bringing together the corners and ear loops on each side, knotting the ears loops together where they attach to the mask, and then tucking in and flattening the resulting extra mask material to minimize the side gaps. A cloth mask refers to any mask constructed from textiles or fabrics (both natural and synthetic) that is not a surgical mask or N95 respirator and is not intended for use as personal protective equipment.
FIGURE 1. Masks tested, including A, unknotted medical procedure mask; B, double mask (cloth mask covering medical procedure mask); and C, knotted/tucked medical procedure mask. FIGURE 2. Mean cumulative exposure* for various combinations of no mask, double masks, and unknotted and knotted/ tucked medical procedure masks Article and Photos Provided by: MDHHS
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March / 2021 Naabdin Giizis (Snow Crust Moon)
Public Safety Updates and Information
Public Safety Updates and Information GTB Fire Department Updates TB Fire Rescue is proud to announce the addition of FF/ G EMT Dale Link. Dale has an extensive background in fire and EMS. He has served the residents of Swartz Creek,
Michigan area for 27 years, 15 of those years working in the Emergency Room at McLaren Hospital in Flint. Dale is also a State Certified Fire Instructor and will be taking over training for the fire department, also serving as the representative for GTB Fire on Leelanau Counties Fire Training Committee. Dale is married and he and his wife are currently looking for a home in Northern Michigan area. *Dale is pictured with his wife Beth, stepson Jacob (whom both are fighters), and his father Richard (whom is a retired assistant fire chief).
oing our part! As Emergency Medical Personnel, we are D doing our part in the fight against COVID-19. The Strongheart Center has been turned into “Ground Zero” for our fight
against COVID-19. The GTB Medical Team is using Strongheart for COVID-19 vaccinations. The countless hours, teamwork that goes into each day from, Medical, Maintenance, Strongheart staff, and Public Safety all coming together to protect the community. If you would like information on receiving a COVID Vaccine, please contact the GTB Health Clinic at 231-534-7200
January Was A Busy Month
GTB Fire responded to 28 calls for service in January, including 4 structure fires. GTB Fire assisted Suttons Bay, Leland, Elmwood Twp., and Northport on structure fires. Compared to January of 2020 where we responded to 11 calls for service. COVID-19 Vaccine Information Listed below are some take-home messages from one of our last COVID-19 Vaccine Updates. 1. No concerning safety issues or signals with COVID vaccines to date. ( More than 41 million doses administered) 2. Safety profile is consistent with what was observed in the clinical trials. 3. Anaphylactic reaction possible, but RARE. 4. Local reactions are common a. Reactions following second dose are more common than the first. b. Mostly fever, headache, chills, muscle/joint pain.
Safety Tips of the Month
The Grand Traverse Band Fire Department is always looking for new paid on call members to respond to emergencies. For more information, please call the Fire Department at 231-5347666 and we would be happy to answer any questions you have.
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Advertisements / Community
Let’s Make An Elders Community Cookbook Together SUBMIT A RECIPE AND YOU COULD WIN! The staff are excited to announce the next edition of the Grand Traverse Band Elders Cookbook. We all have something in common, through all our memories is often a special dish we share together. Whether it’s a cup of hot chocolate, commodity potatoes, frybread, or grandpa’s possum stew. We all have that special recipe that was created with love and instantly brings us back to that favorite memory. We want to invite our elders to help us create this cookbook by submitting their favorite recipes. We will compile them into a cookbook to share with everyone. We’ll also be selecting a recipe at the end of the month in a drawing for a door prize. Why a cookbook? Because food is awesome. We want to have fun and enjoy it with you all. Send us your recipe to Tanya.Raphael2@gtbindians.com or drop it off to one of the coordinators by the end of the day on February 26th to enter your recipe into a monthly drawing. Pictures along with your recipe is encouraged. Please organize into ingredients, instructions cooking time, temperature. Traditional medicine and/or healing recipes are welcomed and encouraged.
Recipe ____________________________ Ingredients
__________________________________________________________________
Instructions / Cooking Time / Temperature
__________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________
Elders Recipe Name
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March / 2021 Naabdin Giizis (Snow Crust Moon)
Find A Nook and Read A Good Book By Mary Pelcher, GTB Member recently had the opportunity to read a truly great book, Ifiction titled The Firekeeper’s Daughter. This excellent work of young was written by Sault Tribe member, and new author, An-
geline Boulley. The story takes place in the Soo area and is told from the perspective of a young, smart, Anishinaabekwe named Daunis. When Daunis is witness to her best friend’s murder, her life changes exponentially. She is thrust into the dark side of life on the reservation. Daunis had already shelved her dreams of attending U of M and becoming a doctor. She has to grow up fast and use her intelligence to help solve the mystery of drugs in her community. She relies on the strength and wisdom of her mom, grandma, and auntie because her journey is fraught with blossoming love, danger, and surprising betrayal. This book is truly a treasure as we are invited into the sacred lives of Daunis and her family. They share scandalous secrets, heart breaking moments, as well as splendid Indian humor. Their community shares a common bond rooted in their Anishinaabe culture and the book is sprinkled with beautiful Anishninaabemowin. Get this book, find a comfy chair, grab a strong cup of greet tea, and enjoy the solitude of these quiet winter days with a good read. Be prepared to laugh, cry, and cheer for Daunis as she deciphers a mystery that threatens to tear apart her community, her family, and her heart.
NYCALC
March / 2021 Naabdin Giizis (Snow Crust Moon)
Native Youth Community Adaptation and Leadership Congress In partnership with; The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Bureau of Indian Affairs, New Mexico Wildlife Federation, National Park Service, and U.S. Forest Service
YCALC is a federal and non-governmental collaborative that N invites Native communities to work together to address conservation challenges in a changing environment. NYCALC
provides training in leadership principles and conservation for the next generation of Native leaders and their communities. We also provide opportunities for federal agencies to interface and engage with Native students. “NYCALC was an incredible place of growth, not only for me but for everyone involved.” - Devon Parfait, 2019 Junior Faculty
Registration Closes April 12th, 2021
WHEN:
Join us virtually for this free 4-week program from July 5th through July 29th. Tuesday/Wednesday/Thursday 2pm-6pm ET. Week 3 is offline for community engagement projects.
WHO:
Seeking groups of applicants with 1 adult community mentor and 3 to 5 rising high school seniors from any federally recognized tribe, in the US and eastern time zone territories, from the same communities. All applicants must have reliable internet. Resources may be awarded to selected applicants on a per student basis to accommodate community-based projects.
HOW:
Applications accepted on a first-come first-served basis for the first 100 students who pass the application process. Application is at https://nycalc.org VISIT: HTTPS://NYCALC.ORG FOR MORE INFORMATION
Benefits of Getting a COVID-19 Vaccine
GTB NEWS 23
GTB NEWSLETTER
March / 2021 Naabdin Giizis (Snow Crust Moon)
Notice of Public Hearings ~ The Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians, in lieu of Benzie County Central Schools, Elk Rapids Public Schools, Frankfort-Elberta Area Schools, and Kingsley Area Schools, will conduct public hearings for the Title VI American Indian Education Programs annual funding proposal for the upcoming 2021-2022 school year. Meeting dates via Zoom: o o o o
Kingsley Area Schools – April 6, 2021, 6pm Benzie Central Schools – April 7, 2021, 6pm Frankfort-Elberta Area Schools – April 7, 2021, 6pm Elk Rapids Area Schools – April 8, 2021, 6pm
The mission of the Title VI American Indian Education Program is to support efforts to meet the unique educational and culturally related academic needs of American Indian students. Zoom Info: https://zoom.us/j/94906665213?pwd=N2tpZmZjRXM5U01OTkxPeT EveHgyQT09 Meeting ID: 949 0666 5213 Passcode: 225895 Dial by Phone: 1 312 626 6799 Questions? Please contact Melissa Alberts at 231.534.7765 or Dawn Shenoskey at 231.534.7753
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