April 2024

Spring Contest Pow Wow Coming to NMU Superior Dome in Marquette

In anticipation of the upcoming 2nd Annual Keweenaw Bay Spring Contest Pow Wow, Christine Awonohopay, President of the Pow Wow Committee shares some insights about the exciting event scheduled to take place at the Superior Dome in Marquette, Michigan

Awonohopay said the venue selection process for this year’s pow wow was influencd by the overwhelming success of last year’s pow wow at the Convention Center at the Ojibwa

IN THIS ISSUE

PRESIDENT'S REPORT

CEO'S CORNER

ANISHINAABE DENTAL OUTREACH

EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHT

Casino. Due to a significant turnout that exceeded expectations, the committee found themselves seeking a larger space to accommodate attendees. With the support of CEO Brigitte LaPointe-Dunham, the committee secured the Superior Dome, marking a historic moment as the venue has never hosted a pow wow before

The move to the Superior Dome promises to enhance the overall experience for attendees and participants alike, addressing last year's space constraints and providing ample room for everyone to enjoy everything the event has to offer.

In terms of promotion, the committee has employed various strategies, including social media outreach and television commercials aired by TV6 to attract both local and regional audiences. With anticipation building, Awonohopay expects this year's pow wow to surpass the previous year's attendance.

Attendees can look forward to a plethora of attractions, including diverse vendors from across the United States and Canada offering Native foods and crafts.

2024 TRIBAL COUNCIL

Doreen Blaker, President

Rodney Loonsfoot, Vice President

Susan J LaFernier, Secretary

Elizabeth Liz Julio, Jr, Asst Secretary

Theodore "Austin" Ayres, Treasurer

Robert RD Curtis, Jr.

Everett Ekdahl, Jr.

Sue Ellen Elmblad

Dale Goodreau

Hope Laramore

Sam Loonsfoot

Toni J Minton

Office of the President

Boozhoo Anin Gakina,

For the month of Onaabanigiizis (March) the Tribal Council had five Special Meetings. The Tribal Council took action on the following items listed below.

03/01/2024

Approved the 2024 declaration of Walleye lakes and designation of quota lakes as recommended by the KBIC NRD.

Approved a Letter of Intent to Revex Metals, Inc for their United States Department of Energy grant proposal.

Approved the bid from Berger Chevrolet Inc. in the amount of $52,538.00 for a 2024 Chevrolet Tahoe 4wd with police package as presented.

03/06/2024

Approved all of the completed applications for Commercial Fishing licenses for the 2024-2025 fishing season.

Approved the letter to the Lyme Timber Company regarding the harvest of Northern White Cedar and consultation with the Tribes in order to prevent the eradication of culturally significant tree species.

Approved the subcontract between the Great Lakes Indian Fish and Wildlife Commission (GLIFWC) and the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community as presented.

03/06/2024

Approved all of the completed applications for Commercial Fishing licenses for the 2024-2025 fishing season.

Approved the letter to the Lyme Timber Company regarding the harvest of Northern White Cedar and consultation with the Tribes in order to prevent the eradication of culturally significant tree species.

Approved the subcontract between the Great Lakes Indian Fish and Wildlife Commission (GLIFWC) and the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community as presented.

3/13/2024

Approved a donation in the amount of $500.00 for the Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Western U.P. Bowl for Kids Sake fundraiser.

Approved a donation in the amount of $100.00 for the Baraga County Next Gen Team 2nd Annual Egg Hunt.

Approved naming the Director of Public Works as an authority to sign and execute change orders for the March 2022 Agreement with Smith Construction.

Approved Resolution KB-010-2024 FY 2024 P.L. 93-638 Self Determination - Road Maintenance.

Approved the D.N.A. Diagnostics Center Inc. Agreement

03/20/2024

Approved the Tribal Council minutes from December 7, 2022, December 14, 2022 and December 21, 2022.

Approved the 2024 KBIC Fisheries Management Plan.

03/27/2024

·Approved the KBIC Solid Waste bid as presented for garbage pickup for the KBIC Housing Department in L’Anse/Baraga areas.

Approved the Community Health Assessment Survey with additions and changes.

Approved Resolution KB-011-2024 Land Acquisition – Pythias Building as presented.

Approved Resolution KB-012-2024 Cheryl L. Denomie Residential Lease

Approved Resolution KB-013-2024 Justin A. Dunleavy Recreational Lease.

Approved Resolution KB-014-2024 Stacey A. Wojkiewicz Recreational Lease.

Approved Resolution KB-015-2024 Land Acquisition – Huron Bay as presented. Tabled Resolution KB-016-2024 Land Acquisition – Morgan Meadows until we can look into the zoning variances.

Approved Resolution KB-017-2024 Tony J. Magnant Residential Lease.

Approved Resolution KB-018-2024 Robert A. Rajacic Residential Lease

Appointed Tom Magnant to the Education Board.

Appointed Yvette Simmons to the Election Board.

Appointed Stephen King and Allen Gauthier to the Natural Resource Board.

How are we a quarter way through 2024?

Insane to think about but excited for the warmer temps and what our beautiful Spring and Summer months bring. The 2024 Total Solar Eclipse will take place this month and should be an amazing sight for those who get to see it in totality The next total solar eclipse won’t happen until August 23, 2044

April is also Child Abuse Awareness month. KBIC Health System has a nice set up in the lobby area with swag and information on how we can stay aware and prevent abuse within our community. As mentioned in my last article, our Spring Contest Powwow takes place April 19-21 in Marquette at the Superior Dome on the campus of Northern Michigan University. Such an exciting time for us to embrace our culture, refresh ourselves and remember where we come from. Traditional or Contest, Powwows are a great way to heal.

Spring also means a time for graduations. Locally, KBOCC’s commencement will take place Saturday, May 4th at 5:00 pm at the Powwow grounds The speaker for the class of 2024 is James Vukelich, a renowned Indigenous author and speaker. Our very own Jeanne Emery, Licensing Specialist, has been named 2024 Class Valedictorian – Congratulations, Jeanne! I want to recognize all college graduates this coming May, whether you are earning a certificate, associates, bachelors, or graduate level degree – you all deserve a round of applause for your accomplishments. It is no easy feat!

A special shout out to my sister, Angie Dickson, who will be graduating from KBOCC with her Associate of Science degree in Business Administration. Woohoo, Ang! Congratulations!

For the month of March, I:

Held a Quarterly Department Head Meeting

Attended a KBIC Monthly Grant Management Meeting with NTIA Broadband officials

Attended a UP Behavioral Health Network meeting

Attended DOJ CTAS grant update meeting on the Police dept. building renovation project

Attended Section 105 Lease Workshop with the BIA and KBIC staff

Attended an Assistance Based on Need Taskforce meeting

Attended retirement luncheon for Chief of Police Duane Misegan

Attended Zoom meeting to discuss Residency expansion program with Aspirus and local hospitals and health groups

Attended a Great Lakes Sports Commission Board meeting

Attended 2024 Reservation Economic Summit in Las Vegas, March 11-14

Attended Annual APSR Webinar for Tribal Government with MDHHS

Attended Title IV-B Application Training with ACF

Attended Tribal State Partnership meeting with the Governor’s office

Met with Woda Cooper Developments on prospective housing development project through MSHDA

Attended a Policy Review Workgroup meeting

Met with officials for the Housing Electrification and Appliance Rebate Program for Tribes

Participated in Feeding America Mobile Pantry event

Met with Paycom for a demo of electronic time keeping application

Attended four KBIC/MDHHS update meetings with Tribal Social Services

Held individual department update meetings throughout the month

Attended four Tribal Council meetings

If you are an enrolled member and reading this please do not forget about our new Member Portal on the newly updated website (kbic-nsn.gov). If you need access please contact Sheila Royal, sroyal@kbic-nsn.gov, for assistance. We have also updated our website with a new Events page with a calendar laying out all events that are happening within the Community. As always, you can find all relevant KBIC happenings on our Facebook page under Keweenaw Bay Indian Community.

All the best, Brigitte

COMMUNITY NOTICE: I want to provide a notice about our current operations with Tribal Social Services (TSS) TSS is currently understaffed to a point where outside help is needed The Community has entered an agreement with the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) to help ensure that the reservation receives child and adult protective services MDHHS has provided emergency assistance to the Community in the past, so its aid is not new We hope MDHHS's assistance will help the Community provide adequate childandadultprotectiveservices MDHHS has agreed to act as a representative of TSS to provide child and adult protective services to tribal members on the reservation MDHHS social workers mayrespondtoemergencycallsonthereservation fileremovalpetitionsinTribal Court and work with Tribal Police to remove a neglected child from a home if necessary While MDHHS may be responding to calls it is doing so on behalf of TSS and under the Tribe's jurisdiction The Tribal Court maintains jurisdiction over alltribalmembersonthereservation MDHHSmustworkthroughtheTribalCourt ifitwishestoremoveaneglectedchildfromthehome

Contest Pow Wow

CONTINUED FROM COVER PAGE

Moreover, the highlight of the event will undoubtedly be the champion dancers and drums from various directions.

Beyond entertainment, the pow wow is expected to have a significant economic impact on the local community in Marquette. With hotels already booking up and excitement mounting, the event is poised to benefit local businesses and generate heightened awareness and enthusiasm within the community.

When asked about measuring success, Awonohopay emphasized the satisfaction of witnessing the pow wow in full swing during grand entry on Friday night. For her, success is not only about logistical achievements but also about participants enjoying themselves and embracing their cultural heritage.

As the event draws nearer, the committee remains focused on ensuring a seamless and memorable experience for all attendees. With the support of the University and the broader community, they are poised to make this year's pow wow even more exceptional than the last.

The 2nd Annual Keweenaw Bay Spring Contest Pow Wow kicks off at 7 PM on Friday, April 19th, at the Superior Dome. The event welcomes the public to celebrate Native culture and tradition.

KBIC Tribal Member Jenna Messer Accepted into Master's Program After Graduating with Dual Bachelor's Degrees

In a remarkable testament to academic excellence and dedication to cultural preservation, Jenna Messer, a proud member of the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community, has achieved a significant milestone in her educational journey. Jenna, daughter of Mary Messer and the late David Ekdahl is set to graduate from Michigan Technological University this spring with not one but two Bachelor's degrees in Law, Policy, and Society, and Anthropology, along with minors in Diversity Studies and Psychology.

In March, Jenna was informed of her acceptance into Michigan Technological University's Master's Program for Industrial Heritage and Archaeology, scheduled to begin in the fall of 2024

Congratulations, Jenna, on your outstanding achievement, and best wishes as you embark on the next chapter of your academic journey. The KBIC community extends its heartfelt wishes for your continued success.

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April is Autism Acceptance Month

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a developmental disorder that affects communication and behavior, often with heightened sensory sensitivities. One in thirty-six children is diagnosed with ASD. Fortunately, this diagnosis can be made very young, so parents can access help early in the baby’s life.

The number of American Indian/Native Alaskan (AI/AN) children with ASD isn’t known, and a 2009 University of Minnesota study reported that AI/AN children are 13 percent less likely to be identified than white children with autism. ASD may not be less prevalent in Native communities; tribal children just aren’t being diagnosed.

ASD patients can and do achieve excellent dental health These efforts should begin at birth With ASD children, prevention is key because treating dental disease is exceedingly difficult for ASD patients.

When a baby finishes feeding, a warm, wet cloth can gently wipe the inside of the mouth. Toothbrushing should start when the first tooth appears; toothpaste is not necessary. Use a soft, infant brush with warm water. After age two years old, try using fluoride toothpaste the size of a grain of rice. The American Dental Association recommends twice a day for 2 minutes.

Tapping the lower lip softly with a silicone baby spoon or your finger can often get the baby to open, along with verbal cues. Coo over the wonderful opening. Massage is another option. Move your fingers in a circular motion beginning at the temple and work down to the jaw angle, then onto the cheek, to where the lower jaw angles forward. Little circles with a downward nudge usually works well.

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Softly singing during oral care, the same song each time, will help. Although the ASD baby may not respond, it is still especially important for caregivers to repeatedly speak and sing in a gentle voice, letting the baby know what is about to happen.

“Now, we are getting ready to brush our teeth.” “It feels so good.”

“Oh, you look wonderful with those clean teeth.”

The best positive reinforcement is repetition, enthusiasm, and praise. Let the child model your own good behavior, saying, “I am so happy it is my turn to brush my teeth!”

Electric toothbrushes require less time. A threesided toothbrush can make brushing easier and quicker.

For nutrition, sugar is totally unnecessary. Sweets offered at meals are less harmful. Milk and water are the recommended drinks for all children.

If using a bottle at bed, use only water. To avoid tooth decay, never put milk or juice in a bottle in the bed with baby.

For toddler’s brushing routine, let them hold a favorite toy while sitting in a caregiver’s lap, perhaps with a weighted blanket or a pressure vest. Use singing, music, or a video.When older, let the child brush first, with the caregiver “Checking to see what a good job you are doing!” after. Sometimes, breathing patterns can help.

All babies should first see a dentist when they have their first tooth or before one year old.

If the ASD child has not been to a dentist, be sure to prepare for the first dental visit.There are amusing books which explain the dental office, so read these to the child many times. Ask your librarian for suggestions. Talk about your own “wonderful and fun” visits to the dentists. Repeatedly explain what will happen at the office.

Let the dentist know the special needs of the ASD patient; a sensory preference list can be shared with the dental staff. Ask for staged exposure to the office. Just sit in the reception area for ten minutes. Perhaps a “tour” of the office is in order when other

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patients are not there, when it is quiet. Introduce the staff by name without masks or glasses or gloves. If lights bother the patient, bring sunglasses. Bring a favorite “comfy.” This might be a toy, a blanket, clothing, a hat, or a music recording.

Is there a time of day when the child is more cooperative? Make the visits for that time. Possibly make shorter appointments, such as for a short exam and oral hygiene instruction with fluoride varnish on the front teeth.Another appointment can include a professional exam and cleaning with fluoride varnish on all the teeth. Ask if the hygienist has a mild polishing paste, and suggest the hygienist please use the paste the child uses at home.

Excellent dental health is of paramount importance to ASD individuals, from birth to adulthood.Any speech development depends on natural, strong teeth. Digestion starts in the mouth, ensuring optimal nutrition for growth. Facial expression and recognition depend on natural, strong teeth. Those with ASD have many challenges in life. Why add dental suffering to their problems?

The Delta Dental Foundation has excellent resources for families that can make caring for folks with ASD easier. Also, the Autism Alliance of Michigan offers free support with finding a dentist for ASD patients as well as other beneficial services.

https://pop.umn.edu/sites/pop.umn.edu/files/racial disproportionality.pdf

https://www.voanews.com/a/usa helping-nativeamerican-children-autism-poses-challengesschools/6184254.htmlhttps://www.deltadental.foun dation/access-for-all-smiles

https://autismallianceofmichigan.org/

https://www.deltadental.foundation/all-smilesshine-app All Smiles Shine on the App Store (apple.com) & https://apps.apple.com/us/app/allsmiles-shine/id1570519795

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseasesconditions/autism-spectrum-disorder/symptomscauses/syc-20352928

https://products bestreviews com/best-threesided-toothbrush?

yb&cid=650116235&aid=1242448787514992&eid=& tid=kwd-77653418681611:loc190&ul=108514&mt=e&n=o&d=c&dm=&dt&sn&adid =&k=three%20sided%20toothbrush&p=&pc=&ap= &chtrb=1&msclkid=603ce2c87331117d

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9 871799/#:~:text=Among%20530%20965%20autis tic%20children,White%2C%20and%204.2%25% 20were%20of%20

https://jada ada org/article/S0002-8177(14)602269/fulltext

Thank you. Your continued support means everything to me.

Stay Strong, Dr. Jessica A. Rickert, DDS, Anishinaabe Dental Outreach 231-313-8407, jrickert@deltadentalm i.com;

jarickert@charter.net

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Governor Gretchen Whitmer Appoints Rodney Loonsfoot to Michigan Veterans Trust Fund

Governor Gretchen Whitmer has appointed Rodney Loonsfoot of Baraga to the Michigan Veterans Trust Fund, a vital program that provides grants for the emergency needs of veterans across the state.

Rodney Loonsfoot brings a wealth of experience and dedication to his new role, serving as the Vice President of the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community Tribal Council and as the Tribal Veteran Service Officer. His commitment to serving both his community and fellow veterans is evident through his extensive involvement and advocacy efforts.

A veteran himself, Rodney Loonsfoot served in the Marine Corps and the Michigan National Guard, bringing firsthand knowledge of the challenges and needs faced by those who have served our country.

Loonsfoot's reappointment to represent independent veterans is a testament to his exemplary service and unwavering commitment to supporting his fellow veterans. His term, expiring on February 25, 2027, ensures continuity and dedicated leadership within the Michigan Veterans Trust Fund.

https://wwwkboccedu/employment/op enings/

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Grow Something Special Get a Plot at the KBIC Community Garden

By: Karena Schmidt

Imagine growing new friendships, growing delicious vegetables, growing a deepening relationship with the Earth, growing good health, growing community – all this is possible at our Debweyendan Indigenous Gardens. This year is our 11th season of making garden plots available to community members. The Garden is located in L’Anse at 16037 Brewery Road, next to the KBIC New Day Treatment Center. The garden’s name, the DIGs, draws special attention that we are taking the initiative to be sovereign in our food choices. Debweyendan is Anishinaabemowin for “Believe in it”. The garden is a place where we believe in the mission to bring community together, grow wholesome fresh vegetables and take positive steps toward caring for our health by eating homegrown produce. We participate in growing our own food.

Once you get into gardening, you will experience many thrilling moments – witnessing a bean seed emerging from the earth with her first two ittybitty green leaves, popping a luscious little tomato into your mouth, lifting a large leaf and discovering your first huge green zucchini, seeing the dance of a bee as she pollinates a pumpkin blossom, reaching into the earth and drawing up a handful of new potatoes, eating strawberries, blueberries and raspberries warmed and sweetened by the summer sun.

Our garden is a very special place. Once people sign up for a plot, most return year after year. Every season is different. Last year the nights were cool and tomatoes did not like that, although peas and beans thrived. What lies ahead is always a mystery and that is part of the fun of gardening. Tending to plants and giving them the best care possible is a beautiful act of grace. We get to appreciate at a deeper level all that goes into our food resources Getting to know kindred gardeners in adjacent plots is part of generating new and excellent stories. Finding a way to strengthen our connection to the earth and further develop our Food Security fills us with pride and confidence.

Many people who rent plots at the DIGs appreciate how wonderful it is to have homegrown veggies

and will plant a little extra in their plots and share the surplus with their relatives or elders. Last summer we acquired a beautiful wooden produce stand that will be used to give vegetables away. In the long-term, we hope that our garden will contribute more and more to being a local food source for our community and schools.

Options for interested gardeners

There are several ways you can be part of our garden community.

1. Rent a plot

Community members are welcome to sign up to reserve a garden plot for the summer. The garden plot size is 11 x 30 feet, with ample room to cultivate an abundant crop of wholesome veggies for you and your family and friends. A $30 fee helps offset the cost of maintaining this space. Half plots are available for a reduced rate of $20. Plot sizes apply to groups rather than individuals. There are seeds available, and you may choose to bring in your plants, although not any that have been genetically engineered or are laden with pesticides.

The very good news for tribal members who sign up for a DIGs plot is that KBOCC will pay the $30 rental fee through Land Grant NIFA funding. Miigwech to KBOCC for their continued generosity and support.

2. Help with care of community plots, trees, orchard, and small fruit areas

Maintaining a healthy and productive garden requires many dedicated and hardworking community members.Help is needed to keep water tanks filled for community plot areas. Promise Neighborhood has offered their assistance and we will have a water calendar and could use more assistance with date and area commitments to fill water tanks and/or water areas. Also, you are always welcome to come to the DIGs when you feel inspired and help with the tending to and harvesting of strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and other fruit. When you help out, you will learn a bit about gardening and can take what is harvested home with you. This is a wonderful way to get yourself introduced to gardening.Then maybe next year you will choose to rent a plot.

3. Volunteer at Garde for Heart Saturdays

Every 2nd and 4th Saturday of the month, from nine – noon, we host a volunteer program called Garden for Heart. During these work mornings, volunteers come from far and wide to help at the

garden. The compost heaps are turned, garden beds are weeded and mulched, whatever produce is in season is harvested. This is a beautiful program with reciprocity at its heart. For every three hours, someone gives to the garden, a gift of a fine garden tool, a garden-related book, or produce is given in thanks. The first Garden for Heart workday this year will be 11 May.

4. Participate in garden group emails

There is a group email for gardeners to share updates on the garden, garden methodology, new opportunities, and food sovereignty. We hope to have an update in May on a garden plant give-away, which will be shared throughout the community. We are grateful to our Great Lakes Program Tribal Youth who have a few years’ experience at the garden.This coming season they will be tending to the asemaa plants, sage and sweet grass Everything from seed propagation, transplanting, tending, watering, harvesting and preparation for ceremony and gifting will be part of their commitment.Chi miigwech to our youth for agreeing to take on this responsibility.

Please consider partaking of all the goodness intended from this special place -- the Debweyendon Indigenous Gardens – Believe in it!

To sign up for a garden plot or for more information about the DIGs please contact Karena Schmidt 906337-2079 (kschmidt@kbic-nsn-gov) or Mike Lahti 906-201-7814 (michaell@kbic-nsn.gov). Either one is happy to help answer your gardening questions. The DIGs is located at 16037 Brewery Road, in L’Anse. Gardening is such a joyous activity. Thanks for participating in this community-enhancing initiative!

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Youth harvesting blueberries at the garden

Youth enjoying a day at the DIGs. Riding the Bike Blender to make delicious smoothies of plantain leaves, raspberries and blueberries, all harvested from the garden

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KBIC NRD Addresses Climate Change Planning for the Future

The KBIC Natural Resources Department has been working with other parts of the government on updating the KBIC 2003 Integrated Resource Management plan (IRMP) and creating a Climate Resiliency Plan (CRP) for the KBIC. The Integrated Resource Management Plan is a document to support and guide integrated planning, stewardship and management practices across the KBIC government offices that ensure the restoration and protection of natural resources within our homelands. This includes such things as policy development, guidance for creating and expanding programs, rationale for funding and capacity building, building and continuing education and outreach initiatives and enhancing collaboration across KBIC departments as well as with external partners and co-stewards.

The CRP serves as a guide to assist KBIC to anticipate, prepare and adapt to climate change in the 1842 ceded territory. The CRP serves as a governance guide to climate specific actions The CRP and IRMP can be used together and are interrelated.

The KBIC NRD IRMP Team has provided several public presentations on the IRMP and CRP. The draft documents are currently out for public comment and comments can be emailed to Zelina.huhta@kbic-nsn.gov.

The documents can be accessed through the links provided below:

IRMP

https://drive.google.com/file/d/17WPaP wu4IF2xoiW4Ao1JDfW3LkFzDI/view?usp=sharing

CRP

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1yYvnzzUAWONADj CMLGwARNuXgMaKE_9W/view?usp=sharing

A recent documentary titled Planet of The Humans directed by Jeff Gibbs features the KBIC Summit Lake Wind Turbine Project and the Biomass plant in L’Anse. This documentary highlights examples of the challenges faced in our region pertaining to climate change and green energy.

If you have questions please feel free to contact Zena Huhta at the NRD Offices by email or phone. 906-524-5757 ext. 4239

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Introducing KBIC Tribal Police's New Leadership: Chief Dale Goodreau and Captain Everett Ekdahl, Jr.

Following the retirement of longtime KBIC Tribal Police Chief Duane Misegan, we are pleased to announce the appointment of two esteemed individuals to key leadership positions within the department. Please join us in congratulating Dale Goodreau as the new Police Chief and Everett Ekdahl,Jr.asthenewPoliceCaptain.

Dale Goodreau, a native of the L’Anse Indian Reservation. Born to Pauline and the late Albert Goodreau, Dale is the grandson of Herbert and Rosemary (Dutchie) Shulstad. His educational journey began at Baraga Area Schools, where he holds the distinction of being among the last students to attend classes in the old high school before its demolition to make way for the new facility. Dale proudly graduated from Baraga High School in the esteemed Class of '81, a fact often mentionedbyRobbieMayo.

Upon completing his high school education, Dale answered the call to serve his country by enlisting in the United States Army National Guard Following his contract there, he continued his military service with the United States Navy, accumulating 12 years of dedicated service before receiving honorable discharges from both branchesin1994.

Transitioningtocivilianlife,Dalefound

employment at White Pine Copper Range, where he began his career underground as a driller blaster before advancing to operating scoops and eventually becoming a certified pipe welder His employment at the mine concluded with its closure in 1996.

In pursuit of a new path, Dale embarked on a career in law enforcement, commencing with the Great Lakes Indian Fish and Wildlife Agency. In the fall of 1997, he joined the ranks of the Keweenaw Bay Tribal Police Department as a Patrol Officer. He attended the Bureau of Indian Affairs Indian Police Academy in Artesia, New Mexico, graduating in 1998.

Returning to the Keweenaw Bay Tribal Police Department, Dale assumed the role of Conservation Officer, later rising to the rank of Sergeant, where he supervised Conservation and Patrol Officers. Throughout his career in Law Enforcement, Dale has demonstrated his dedication to serving the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community, extending his assistance from assisting commercial fishermen on the lake to collaborating with other tribal departments as needed.

Dale's commitment to professional development led him to attend Detective training in Glynco, Georgia, where he gained invaluable skills that he brought back to benefit the community. His collaboration with the Federal Bureau of Investigation on major cases within the reservation has fostered a strong working relationship between the two departments.

As he steps into his new role as Police Chief, Dale is steadfast in his commitment to fostering open communication within the department and the community. Under his leadership, the Tribal Police Department is embarking on initiatives such as community policing, establishing a School Resource Officer for Baraga Area Schools, hiring new Conservation Officers and young officers, and continued work on programs like the Healing to Wellness Court.

Dale's vision for a safer community extends beyond law enforcement, as he seeks to collaborate with other departments to create a safer environment for all. His dedication to service and his vision for the future promise to make a lasting impact on the KBIC Tribal Police Department and the community it serves.

Everett Ekdahl, Jr. was hired by the KBIC Tribal Police Department in 2004 at the age of 20. He began his career as a Conservation Officer and later transitioned into working in both Conservation and Police roles. In 2009, he entered a new phase in his career and assumed the position of School Resource Officer for both Baraga and L’Anse Schools, where he completed the Weed and Seed grant that our community received. During this time, he had the opportunity to teach the T.E.A.M program in the schools. He found that work to be an incredibly rewarding experience. He is thrilled to see that it has been reintroduced into our schools.

In 2015, recognizing a significant need in our community, Everett took the initiative to maintain our K9 program. He began his K9 career with K9 Edy, with whom he worked for six years. However, with the legalization of Marijuana, he retired Edy as he was trained to detect it. With the assistance of grant funding from the KBIC Housing Department, they were able to acquire another dog. Sadly, the second dog, Tank, had a brief career due to illness and passed away. The third dog, Savage, whom Everett has partnered with for the past two years, is an exceptional Dutch Shepherd, and he is confident Savage will serve the community well for the next seven years plus, maintaining good health. Everett is excited to see what Officer Alden Connor and Savage achieve in the future.

Everett considers himself fortunate to have served as a K9 handler; it has been one of the most fulfilling roles he has had as an officer in this community. Combatting drug activity and maintaining community cleanliness has been a challenging yet rewarding endeavor. Additionally, assisting in tracking lost individuals for hours at a time has instilled a deep appreciation for the animals he has had the privilege to work with. Also, tracking suspects who have fled crime scenes has provided exhilarating moments of adrenaline.

Though he is not yet out of the K9 handler position, with the assistance of the Promise Neighborhoods program, they have procured a dog who will join them at the beginning of June. This black lab will serve as both a safety and therapy dog, spending much of its time in schools ensuring safety and providing comfort to children who may be experiencing difficulties. Everett is eager for this opportunity and hopes to see this K9 serve for many years to come.

Throughout Everett’s career, he has held various titles, including Officer, Corporal, Sergeant, and now Captain As Captain of the KBIC Tribal Police Department, his primary goal is to increase the officer count to ensure full staffing and provide our hard-working officers with much-needed time off. We currently have four new hires who will attend the BIA Police Academy in July, and upon their return, they will significantly improve our department.

Community policing has been a cornerstone of his career, whether as a School Resource Officer or a K9 Handler. Everett is committed to maintaining strong relationships between law enforcement and the community Having officers present at community events will foster positive rapport and enhance effectiveness in serving the community.

He advocates for the reinstatement of the Police Cadet program, which provides summer internships for high school graduates or college students interested in law enforcement. This program has proven successful, and he, along with three other officers currently serving in this department, is a testament to its effectiveness. He will work towards reinstating this program in the near future.

As Captain, he is dedicated to ensuring that our officers have access to the necessary resources to excel in their roles. Together with Chief Dale Goodreau, they aim to make their department an attractive career opportunity for young officers aspiring to serve the community.

Everett is enthusiastic about his new role as Captain and looks forward to serving the community in this capacity.

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Warrior Rising Announces Partnership

with Michigan Veterans Trust Fund and Grand Valley State University

March 22, 2024

The partnership with the Michigan Veterans Trust Fund comes in the form of a generous grant which will be utilized to fund Warrior Rising's upcoming Business Shower event in Detroit, Michigan

Warrior Rising, a leading non-profit organization dedicated to empowering veterans through entrepreneurship, is proud to announce a significant partnership with the Michigan Veterans Trust Fund (MVTF) and Grand Valley State University (GVSU). This collaboration marks a milestone in Warrior Rising's mission to support veteran entrepreneurs and will pave the way for innovative programs and initiatives.

The partnership with the Michigan Veterans Trust Fund comes in the form of a generous grant in the amount of $150,000, which will be utilized to fund Warrior Rising's upcoming Business Shower event in Detroit, Michigan, scheduled for September 20th21st. The Business Shower will provide veteran entrepreneurs with a platform to showcase their business ideas and connect with industry experts for potential funding and mentorship opportunities.

"We are immensely grateful for the support of the Michigan Veterans Trust Fund," said Jason Van Camp, Executive Director of Warrior Rising. "Their generous contribution will enable us to continue our mission of empowering veteran entrepreneurs and fostering economic growth in the Detroit community."

Lindell Holm, Michigan Veterans Trust Fund Director had this to say, "The Michigan Veterans Trust Fund wants to see the veteran community in Michigan thrive. We believe that partnering with Warrior Rising and GVSU can help make that happen by providing the necessary tools for veteran entrepreneurs to unleash their full potential. We expect this collaboration will kickstart the growth of veterans who accept the challenge to start their own businesses."

In addition to the partnership with MVTF, Warrior Rising is excited to announce a collaboration with Grand Valley State University and its Richard M. and Helen DeVos Center for Entrepreneurship & Innovation to create a new Veteran Business Accelerator program. This partnership will bring forth a new program combining Warrior Rising's curriculum and modeled after GVSU's successful Michigan Veterans Entrepreneur Lab. The program will provide veteran entrepreneurs nationwide with the resources, mentorship, and support needed to accelerate the growth of their businesses.

The partnership with GVSU underscores Warrior Rising's commitment to providing veterans with access to high-quality entrepreneurial education and support Through this program, veteran entrepreneurs will have the opportunity to learn from experienced mentors, connect with industry professionals, and gain valuable skills to drive their businesses forward.

"We are honored to collaborate with Warrior Rising in supporting our nation's veterans," said Michael Hycinthe, representative from Grand Valley State University. "Together, we can make a meaningful impact on the lives of veteran entrepreneurs and contribute to the economic prosperity of our communities."

For more information about Warrior Rising and its initiatives, visit warriorrising.org.

About Michigan Veteran Trust Fund (MVTF):

Michigan Veteran Trust is a fund established by the State of Michigan and administered by the Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency. Through financial assistance and other resources, MVTF strives to improve the quality of life for Michigan's veterans.

About Grand Valley State University (GVSU):

Grand Valley State University is a public liberal arts university located in Allendale, Michigan. Known for its commitment to excellence in education and innovation, GVSU offers a wide range of academic programs and initiatives to support student success

SOURCE Warrior Rising

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