August 2024

AUGUST 2024

WWW.KBIC-NSN.GOV

ISSUE 22

KBIC NEWS MIINKE GIIZIS - BLUEBERRY MOON

Celebrating Tradition: Highlights from the 46th Maawanji'iding

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

The crowning of the 2024 royalty took place on Friday evening. Jr. Miss Keweenaw Bay is McKayla Houle, Jr. Brave is Dalan Connor, Miss Keweenaw Bay is Willow Rexford, and Senior Brave is Devin Connor.

IN THIS ISSUE PRESIDENT'S REPORT CEO'S CORNER 46TH ANNUAL MAAWANJI’IDING ANISHNAABE DENTAL OUT REACH SPORTS HIGHLIGHTS

offering insights into the significance of our dances and ceremonies, and the 4th Annual Children's Remembrance Walk, honoring the The 46th Annual Maawanji'iding, held memory of the children who are no longer from July 26-28 at the Ojibwa with us.

Campgrounds in Baraga, was a vibrant celebration hosted by the Keweenaw The powwow itself was a spectacular display Bay Indian Community. The event was a of dance and tradition. Highlights included tremendous success, attracting visitors the Boots and Hats Special, held in memory of from near and far and cultivating a Nannie Beck, a cherished powwow profound sense of community pride. committee member and KBIC community member, and the Strap Dress Special, hosted The week leading up to the powwow

by Donald Chosa, Jr. Despite the heat, the featured a variety of events that brought event thrived with an array of vendors the community together. It began with offering food, crafts, and informational the 11th Annual Water Walk, booths. emphasizing the importance of water conservation and protection. This was CONTINUED ON PAGE NIWIIN (4) followed by Pow Wow Teachings,

Office of the President Boozhoo Anin Gakina,

Special Meeting 07/17/2024

For the month of July, the Tribal Council had five Special Meetings. The Tribal Council took action on the following items listed below.

Special Meeting 07/03/2024 Approved the FY 2025 Buyback/Withhold agreement presented

with

Indian

Health

Service

as

Approved a donation in the amount of $8,395.00 for the purchase of a pre-built shed from UP Sheds, LLC to be utilized by the Powwow Committee.

Approved the ADP Global Master Services Agreement.

Approved the Addendum to Global Master Services Agreement.

Approved Resolution KB-037-2024 Approving and authorizing the entrance into the Credit Agreement and related documents between Superior National Bank and the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community.

Appointed Terri Swartz to the ICWA Committee – term ending in 2027.

Approved the FY 2025 Indian Housing Plan.

Approved Resolution KB-038-2024 - ILCA Recoup Funding UFI – Gail Barrett.Approved Resolution KB-039-2024 ILCA Recoup Funding UFI Acquisition – Brian T. Haataja.

Approved KBIC Law Enforcement Tier II Service Agreement with Gundlach.

Approved a donation in the amount of $2,000.00 for the KBIC Children’s Remembrance Walk.

Approved Resolution KB-036-2024 Title VI HUD Loan Guarantee Program.

Approved the Employment Agreement with Special Meeting 07/23/2024 Shelbie Shelder M.D. as presented. (New Tribal Approved the Tribal Council meeting minutes Clinic Doctor) from October 7, 2020, Octiber 14,2020, October Approved the Locum Tenens Agreement with 21, 2020 and October 28, 2020.

Barton & Associates, Inc. as presented.

Approved the Techarttm MT Blackjack Hole (Temporary Dentist placement with KBIC Dental Card Reader and Valt subscription as Clinic) presented.

Approved the Chiropractor Services Agreement Approved the Service Agreement between with Jinny Sirard as presented. (Chiropractor KBIC Child Support Program and Tribal service to be offered at the KBIC Tribal Clinic.)

Consulting Services, LLC as presented.

Approved the bid from Dahl Honda located in Special Meeting 07/10/2024 Stevens Point, Wisconsin in the amount of $52,164.00 for a 2023 Toyota Sienna.

Approved a temporary exemption for Paul Approved the bid from Kunes Chevy GMC Smith to utilize the Vanlandschoot boat, located in Elkhorn, Wisconsin in the amount of Captain and trap net lifting equipment, under $66,394.00 for a 2024 GMC Yukon XL SLE. the provision that Paul Smith and his authorized helpers are present and performing the tasks Special Meeting 07-31-2024 related to big boat fishing, for up to 60 days.

Approved a donation to the Native American Approved Resolution KB-042-2024 Sharon A. Rights Fund in the amount of $500.00.

Madosh Recreational Lease as presented.

Appointed Andrew Loonsfoot and Hope Dunleavy to the Powwow Committee and Corey Pietila as an alternate, all new committee members must pass a background check.

Approved a donation in the amount of $1,500.00 for the 11th Annual Water Walk.

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AUGUST 2024

CEO’s Corner August is here and is turning out to be a very busy month for the KBIC Government. We are in the midst of preparing FY25 budgets, reporting, and attending trainings and conferences.

Through all this, we all may also be preparing for back to school and all that entails! Many Fall sports seasons are starting

Attended ABNON Taskforce meeting Attended Drug Free Workplace Taskforce meeting Attended the MI Governor’s Office Monthly Tribal/State meeting Met with NTIA on Tribal Broadband project Held three Policy Review Workgroup meetings Attended four KBIC/MDHHS update meetings with Tribal Social Services Held individual department update meetings throughout the month Attended four Tribal Council meetings

where a lot of our community members stay busy as coaches – good luck to all!

It was announced last Monday that we were awarded a U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) grant to support our Baraga Supportive Housing project in the amount of $3,000,000. This award is a part of the Indian Housing Block Grant (IHBG) Competitive funds program and are designated for various purposes, such as new construction, rehabilitation, and infrastructure to support affordable housing within Indian reservations and similar areas. Our funds will support 25 new units in the Supportive Housing Development.

Right now, we are in the middle of the Baraga Roads Project. This project was initiated to improve the roads, driveways, and add sidewalks to our Baraga Housing area. Everything is on task for a November completion date. We are asking all residents to pay attention to the notices pushed out from the Housing Department about moving vehicles and being sure children stay away from the heavy machinery and construction sites.

Looking ahead, we have many different events planned for the fall months including, what has become an annual event, the mobile mammography unit on-site at KBIC Health Systems for September 16 and 17. Free mammograms will be available for uninsured and under-insured women. If you are interested in registering, please contact Amanda Wiggins at the clinic to see if you qualify at 906.353.4511.

During this time our Natural Resources team is preparing for their annual fall events including the popular Manoomin camp. More information should be out about this very soon.

I also wanted to note that August is National Breastfeeding Month! If you are at the health clinic this month, check out the display table set up for goodies and important information.

For the month of July, I: Attended a Hub Advisory Council meeting with local organizations, tribes, and the Lake Superior Community Partnership

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We currently have job openings in many different departments. You can find a list of these openings on our website www.kbicnsn.gov/careers. If you ever have questions about a certain position never hesitate to reach out to the Department Head of that particular department, myself, or the Personnel Office for more information.

Reminder - KBIC Government offices are closed Monday, September 2nd in observance of Labor Day. Also, don’t forget my birthday is September 12th with President Blakers following on the 13th Kidding.

😊

Lastly! I want to thank and congratulate EVERYONE who was apart of planning and supporting the 46th annual KBIC Maawanji’iding for putting on such a successful event. Even with the crazy high temps the Powwow grounds were hopping with spectators, vendors, dancers, and drummers from all over the nation. It takes a lot

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CEO’s Corner of time, effort, sweat, and tears from many to put on an event like this and we always come through in a big way, so again, thank you!!

All my 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 child and adult protective services.

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 may respond to emergency calls on the reservation, file removal petitions in Tribal 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 all tribal members on the reservation. MDHHS must work through the Tribal Court if it wishes to remove a neglected child from the home.

Get to know the CEO of the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community, Brigitte LaPointe-Dunham Upper Michigan Today Monday, August 5.

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46th Maawanji’iding This year, we honored two esteemed elders, Karen Curtis and George DeCota, for their invaluable contributions to the community. Their presence and recognition added a profound sense of respect and continuity to the festivities.

George served in the United States Marine Corps from 1976 to 1980 as a Corporal with the 2nd Battalion, 5th Marines at Camp Pendleton. As a mortar man, he was responsible for carrying the mortar tube and tripod, and he loved his time in the infantry. He also served as a commander for the Beartown Firefighters and has been involved with powwow security for over 20 years. Additionally, he participates annually in Toys for Tots.

Currently, George is the commander of the KBIC Tribal Veterans Wiikwedong Ogichidaa Society. He is an avid fan of the Green Bay Packers and Milwaukee Brewers and enjoys watching his grandchildren play football and baseball.

Remarkably, he has successfully beaten cancer.

George takes great pride in being Anishinabe and a Tribal Ogichidaa.

Honored Elders, Karen Curtis and George DeCota

Gerlinde Karen Curtis was born in May 1961 in Milwaukee, WI, to the late Louis Sr. and Gerlinde Picard. She has three sisters, Lori, Rose, and Sharon, and one brother, the late Louis Picard Jr. In 1977, Karen married Robert Curtis, known affectionately as "Big Bob." Together, they raised their four boys and three girls—Robert "RD" Curtis, Jody Joki, George, Louis, Haven, Gerlinde "Ger," and Lance Curtis—in Zeba. Their family has since grown to include 15 grandchildren and 7 great-grandchildren.

The 46th Maawanji'iding was a testament to the resilience and unity of the KBIC community. With numerous dancers, engaging activities, and a vibrant atmosphere, the powwow highlighted the deep cultural roots and strong community bonds that define us.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to the Pow Wow Committee and everyone who participated and supported this event, making it a memorable and meaningful celebration.

Karen is passionate about cooking, sewing, and spending time with her family and friends. She has been cooking for powwows and gatherings for over 20 years, including this powwow for the past five years.

Karen is deeply grateful to be honored this year.

Corporal George Decota hails from the original Zeba. He is the proud father of three children— Yancy, J Dubs, and Angel—and has many grandchildren: Alexis, Yancy, Isaiah, Malachi, Xavier, Kingston, Kimi, Deviare, and Kane.

11th Annual Water Walk in Memory of Pauline Knapp-Spruce

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46th Maawanji’iding

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AUGUST 2024

46th Maawanji’iding

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Around the Community Biden-Harris Administration Awards $20.5 Million to Michigan to Implement Digital Inclusion Efforts WASHINGTON -- The Department of Commerce’s National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) today awarded more than $20.5 million to Michigan to implement their Digital Equity Plan. Michigan is the second state to receive funding through the $1.44 billion State Digital Equity Capacity Grant Program, one of three Digital Equity Act grant programs created by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. This award is part of the “Internet for All” initiative, a key component of President Biden’s “Investing in America” agenda. States will use this funding to implement their digital equity plans, which outline how states will empower individuals and communities with the tools, skills, and opportunities they need to benefit from meaningful access to affordable, reliable, high-speed Internet service.

“Thanks to President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, the Department of Commerce is not only connecting everyone in Michigan and across the country to quality, affordable high-speed Internet, but also making sure they have the tools and skills they need to make the most of that Internet connection,” said U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo. "Congratulations to the team in Michigan. We look forward to working with you to ensure everyone in the state can take advantage of an Internet connection – whether it’s for work, education, health care, or any other essential service.”

“Michigan now has the funds to start putting their digital equity plan into action,” said Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Administration and NTIA Administrator Alan Davidson. “President Biden’s Internet for All initiative will bolster efforts to ensure Michiganders can thrive online through access to devices and digital skills.”

“Every Michigander deserves access to affordable, reliable fast Internet that meets their needs,” said Lt. Governor Garlin Gilchrist II. “Connection to the Internet is connection to health care, education, the global economy, the public square, and so much more. This Digital Equity Capacity Award is further

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proof that our work to connect more individuals, families, and small business owners to affordable fast Internet is making a difference in communities across Michigan. We have connected over 23,000 unserved locations through the Connecting Michigan Communities grant program, and we will soon connect 55,000 more thanks to the Biden-Harris Administration’s ROBIN grant program. Let’s keep working together to connect more families and small businesses to fast, reliable high-speed Internet that grows our economy.”

“Every family deserves access to affordable Internet so all Americans can participate in the digital economy, access education and healthcare resources, and stay connected to essential services,” said Congresswoman Debbie Dingell.

“Ensuring Michiganders have access to the opportunities that digital resources bring is absolutely critical to meeting the needs of our community as a whole.”

“From accessing healthcare and education to starting a small business, fast, reliable Internet access is critical to ensuring an equitable future for every American,” said Congresswoman Haley Stevens. “I’m thrilled Michigan has secured more than $20 million authorized by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to ensure that every community in our great state has access to this vital tech. Through Federal State partnerships like this one, we can ensure lack of Internet access isn’t a barrier to success.”

Michigan plans to use the funding to implement Michigan's Inclusive Training, Technology, and Equity Network (MITTEN) that includes a robust statewide Digital Navigator Network that will disseminate information from state agencies pertaining to online accessibility of services, new opportunities for workforce or education, and affordable Internet service plans and devices.

With the awarded funding, the state may implement the grant program internally through its administering entity, partner with other state agencies, and subaward funds to other entities within the state.

In March, NTIA launched the first Notice of

AUGUST 2024

Around the Community Funding Opportunity for the Digital Equity Act’s State Digital Equity Capacity Grant Program that made available over $800 million for states, including Puerto Rico and the District of Columbia, and U.S. Territories to apply for grants to implement their digital equity plans, developed under the State Digital Equity Planning Grant Program.

Funding was also made available for Native Entities (Indian Tribes, Alaska Native Entities, and Native Hawaiian organizations) to conduct digital equity planning and carry out digital equity and inclusion activities consistent with the Digital Equity Act. State applications were due by May 28, 2024. The application deadline for U.S. Territories is July 31, 2024. Additional details regarding the first Notice of Funding Opportunity for the State Digital Equity Capacity Grant Program are available at NTIA.gov.

NTIA will announce State Digital Equity Capacity Grant Program awards on a rolling basis.

As directed by the Digital Equity Act, the $1.25 billion Digital Equity Competitive Grant Program will be established within 30 days of this first State Digital Equity Capacity Grant Program award and will make hundreds of millions of dollars available in the first Notice of Funding Opportunity to implement digital equity projects.

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Around the Community Local Hero Honored with Second LifeSaving Award

KBIC member and Baraga County Sherrif’s Deputy, DJ Chaudier was awarded his second lifesaving award for his remarkable bravery and selflessness in the line of duty.

His certificate of commendation, presented by the Sheriff’s Office, reads: “For outstanding service going above and beyond the call of duty and selflessly risking his own personal safety on April 26, 2024, while giving aid to a suicidal person. Chaudier distinguished himself with quick thinking and sound judgment. With total disregard for his own safety, he was able to pull the girl and Deputy Gustafson from the cliff’s edge. Chaudier’s extraordinary decisiveness, exceptional courage, and devotion to duty reflect great credit upon himself, as well as the Sheriff’s Office.”

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AUGUST 2024

Around the Community Ultraviolet Rays Safety Awareness

UV are Ultraviolet rays come from the sun and from sunlamps and tanning beds. There are two types of UV rays that damage human skin: UVA and UVB Lip cancer is oral cancer that is of special concern to dentists. Lip cancer develops from abnormal squamous cells that grow out of control on the lips and on the skin surrounding the lips.

Lip cancer may not have any symptoms. What are signs and symptoms of possible lip cancer, which you should discuss with your dentist or doctor?

• a sore, blister, ulcer, or lump on the mouth that doesn’t go away • a red or white patch on the lip • Cracked & bleeding that doesn’t go away • pain or numbness on the lips

Dentists are often the first to notice lip cancer during a routine dental exam. Lip cancer is highly curable when diagnosed early. Most sores or lumps on the lips are not cancer, though.

How can lip cancer be prevented?

• Minimize exposure to the sun between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., the hours when UV rays are strongest.

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• Apply lip balm with sunscreen 30 SPF before going outside. Re-apply every two hours, even on cloudy days & after swimming or eating. Some cosmetic lipsticks contain sunscreen. Consider using Zinc Oxide, although its opaqueness might be considered unattractive.

• Wear a wide-brimmed hat that provides shade for the entire face, including lips.

• Do not use sunlamps or tanning beds.

• Sand, concrete and water reflect UV rays, so cover up and wear sunscreen while outside. Snow and ice also reflect UV rays.

• Protect children from the sun, because skin damage from UV rays early in life can lead to skin cancer later in life. Keep babies younger than 6 months out of direct sunlight.

What behaviors increase the risk for lip cancer?

• Using tobacco products (cigarettes, cigars, pipes, or chewing tobacco) • Heavy drinking of alcohol • Prolonged exposure UV rays (both natural sunlight and artificial) • Recognize that outdoor activities and outdoor work result in many hours outside • Having light-colored skin • Being male • Having had the human papillomavirus (HPV) • Being older than 40 years of age • Living nearer to the equator How is lip cancer diagnosed? Dentists and doctors perform a physical exam of your lips and other parts of your mouth, head and neck to search for abnormalities. Dentists and doctors will also ask you about your: · health history · smoking and alcohol history · past illnesses · medical and dental treatments · family history of disease · any medications in use

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Around the Community If lip cancer is suspected, a referral to an oral surgeon is in order. A simple biopsy can confirm the diagnosis. During a biopsy, a small sample of the affected area is removed. The sample is then reviewed in a laboratory under a microscope by a pathologist.

If the biopsy results confirm lip cancer, the oral surgeon and dentist and cancer specialist will determine the best course of treatment.

Remember, lip cancer is highly curable when diagnosed early.

Because many cases of lip cancer are first discovered by dentists, it is important to make and keep regular dental appointments. https://hub.jhu.edu/at-work/2022/07/12/uv-safetyawareness-month/ https://www.healthline.com/health/lip-cancers https://pages.clevelandclinic.org/head-neckcancer-index-5.html? utm_source=bing_ppc&utm_medium=cpc&utm_ca mpaign=Head+and+Neck+-+Cancers+-+General++Region+1,+2,+3&utm_term=oral%20cancer&&mscl kid=655f7148fad218d8c47d15354569b82f https://simplyhealth.today/15-symptoms-of-oralcancer/? utm_source=%2Bmouth%20%2Bcancer&utm_medi um=15SymptomsofOralCancer&utm_campaign=ad w_us&msclkid=c017074ee6a615916cf363333dfa2ad 4

Jessica A. Rickert, DDS, Anishinaabe Dental Outreach

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AUGUST 2024

Around the Community

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Around the Community Financing – If you are looking for start-up or expansion capital, once again the EDC staff will provide you with a list of resources including local lending institutions, grant opportunities or government funding programs.

Let’s talk in more detail about the services available to you through the Baraga County Economic Development Corporation (BCEDC).

Start-up services – Have an idea for a business or service? Looking at purchasing an existing business? Sit down with BCEDC staff who can assist you in developing your business plan, budget, licensing, regulatory and marketing opportunities.

Data and research - Are you looking for information to help you make business decisions? What about a wage study for your employees or an economic impact study of your event? The EDC houses economic modeling and impact research databases that can provide you with the answers you need.

The above is just a start to the many ways that the EDC can help your current or future business.

Take a moment to set up an appointment today by calling 906.226.6591 ext. 104 or emailing mary@baragacounty.org.

Mary Myers, Director of Business Development

https://keweenawbay. org/edc/

Succession planning - Have you been considering retiring as a business owner? Struggling with selling your business? The EDC has experience guiding business owners through the process that will allow them to make the long-term decisions best for them.

Licensing and Regulatory Requrements - With an expansive network of local, state and federal departments and elected officials, the EDC staff will connect you with the appropriate resources to get you on your way.

Employee/Human Resources – Looking for new employees? Ways to retain current employees?

Human resource or wage questions? Between the EDC’s key workforce partners and business network, count on them to provide you the data you need or to connect you to those that can solve your workforce needs.

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AUGUST 2024

Around the Community Handicapped Accessible Van Guidelines

Eligibility Enrolled KBIC members and their non-KBIC family members who are not mobile enough to be transported without a wheelchair lift (Eligible User) are eligible to use the Handicap Accessible Van (HAV).

Overview The driver of the HAV assumes the duty of obeying all motor vehicle laws, maintaining the vehicle properly at all times, and complying with the following guidelines.

Vehicle Purposes The HAV shall be used for transportation to medical appointments or other purposes approved by the CEO or Tribal President.

Authorized Driver Drivers must have a valid and unrestricted driver’s license and be able to drive a HAV. The HAV allows drivers to perform approved transportation activities safely, efficiently, and economically while promoting a positive image of the KBIC. Drivers are required to operate the HAV safely and responsibly.

The Tribal Center Receptionist shall instruct firsttime HAV drivers on operating the wheelchair lift before their first trip.

The following rules apply to using the HAV: Only authorized individuals may drive.

The vehicle must be picked up at the assigned location and returned to that location after use.

It must also be locked, and the keys must always be secured.

The driver must review the vehicle's use in the Driver Log, which is to be kept in the HAV at all times and returned for review at the end of use.

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The driver and all passengers must wear available personal restraints, including seatbelts. Eligible users must be secured in the rear of the HAV utilizing the available locking straps.

Report all accidents immediately to the appropriate police and the CEO's office (906)353-4104.

Maintenance Drivers and eligible users must maintain the HAV at all times. The HAV must be returned in the same condition it was issued: clean and with a full fuel tank. The eligible user is to pay for the fuel cost.

The HAV should not be operated with any defect preventing safe operation during current and foreseeable weather and lighting conditions.

Preventative maintenance, such as regular oil changes, tire pressure, and fluid checks, determines to a large extent whether eligible users will have a reliable and safe vehicle to drive. Please report any issues with the HAV you experience during your use of the CEO’s office.

The use of tobacco products by all occupants in the vehicle is prohibited and includes cigars, cigarettes, chewing tobacco, e-cigarettes, and all other forms of tobacco.

Traffic Violations Fines for parking, moving violations, etc. are the personal responsibility of the driver/eligible user.

Accidents Involving the HAV In the event of an accident: Do not admit negligence or liability.

Do not attempt settlement, regardless of how minor.

If possible, get the name, address, and phone number of the injured person(s) and witness(s).

Exchange vehicle identification, insurance company name, and policy numbers with the other driver.

Take a photograph of the scene of the accident if possible.

Call the police.

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Around the Community Complete the vehicle accident report in the HAV. Turn all information over to the CEO’s office upon your return.

Thefts In the event the HAV is stolen, notify local police immediately.

Failure to comply with these guidelines will result in denied future use and may result in additional costs to the eligible user.

The Driver/Eligible User is responsible for the actual possession, care and use of the HAV. Members wishing to utilize the HAV can contact the Tribal Center Receptionist at (906)353-6623 or receptionist@kbic-nsn.gov to reserve it.

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Around the Community Training Event for Tribal Gaming and Hospitality Industry: A Focus on Combating Human Trafficking

With nearly 13 years working for Senator John Thune as Tribal Affairs Advisor, Hovland contributed to significant legislation, including the Tribal Law and Order Act and the Code Talkers Recognition Act of 2008.

On May 20 and 21, Victim Services Director Sierra Ayres hosted an impactful training session for professionals in the Tribal Gaming and Hospitality Industry. The event took place at the Ojibwa Casino facilities in Baraga and Marquette.

The training was a tool to identify and safely respond to human trafficking activity. Information was available to review case studies and human trafficking trends in Michigan and the Upper Peninsula. Resources to help combat suspected human trafficking were shared by the National Indian Gaming Commission, the Department of Homeland Security Investigations, and the Bureau of Indian Affairs Office of Justice Services, Missing and Murdered Unit. Local spokespersons included the KBIC Tribal Police Department, Baraga County Sheriff Department and the Upper Peninsula Human Trafficking Task Force.

Jeannie Hovland - Vice-Chair of the National Indian Gaming Commission (NIGC) Jeannie Hovland (Flandreau Santee Sioux) has served as Vice-Chair of the National Indian Gaming Commission (NIGC) since January 2021. She oversees the regulation and integrity of over 500 Indian gaming facilities across 29 states. Hovland began her second three-year term in May 2024.

Before NIGC, she was Commissioner of the Administration for Native Americans, managing a $57 million budget for American Indian, Alaska Native, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander communities. She initiated the Social and Economic Development Strategies for Growing Organizations program and served as Deputy Assistant Secretary for Native American Affairs at the Administration for Children and Families (ACF), overseeing a $58 billion division.

Hovland chaired the HHS Secretary’s Intradepartmental Council on Native American Affairs and was active in addressing the crisis of Missing and Murdered Native Americans. She previously advised the Assistant Secretary for Indian Affairs on land, water, and economic development issues at the Department of the Interior.

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AUGUST 2024

Current Job Postings

https://www.kbocc.edu/employment/op enings/

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Around the Community Successful Tire Recycling Event in Baraga County Surpasses Expectations

On July 13, 2024, the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community Natural Resources Department partnered with the Superior Watershed Partnership and the KBIC Solid Waste Facility (SWF) to host a successful free tire recycling event.

The initiative saw Baraga County residents recycling a remarkable 1,277 tires, significantly surpassing the 661 tires recycled in 2023.

This event was made possible through the generous funding provided by the SWP. The KBIC NRD contributed labor, while the KBIC SWF offered the space and location for the recycling efforts.

Tire recycling plays a crucial role in maintaining our pristine land and water, keeping them clean and free of debris for everyone to enjoy. A heartfelt Chi Miigwech goes out to everyone who assisted with the event and to all those who brought in tires for proper recycling.

Stay tuned for information about the next tire recycling event in the future. Your participation and support are invaluable in our collective efforts to protect and preserve our environment.

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AUGUST 2024

Around the Community

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Elders

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AUGUST 2024

Elders

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Elders Ojibwa Seniors and Elder Nutrition Program Introduces New Grant for Ojibwa Land Seniors Program The Keweenaw Bay Indian Community Ojibwa Seniors and Elder Nutrition Program is thrilled to announce receiving a grant from the Michigan Health Endowment Fund. This generous grant will fund the Healthy Aging at Home for Tribal Elders initiative, which we have proudly named the Ojibwa Land Seniors program.

The Ojibwa Land Seniors program is designed to address the limited home health support options available for our tribal elders in Baraga County.

Launching this culturally responsive at-home care initiative in collaboration with key community partners.

While the program's initial focus will be on Baraga County, we are hopeful that, with continued support and success, we can extend our services to Marquette County and surrounding areas in the future.

Boozhoo, My name is Joslyn Haataja. I have worked in the Health Care Field for the past 8 years in various positions and have taken a variety of trainings. I hold a Community Health Worker certificate. My journey with the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community began in my youth, and over the past 11 years, I have held various positions allowing me to learn a great deal and meet many wonderful people.

In my spare time, I love being outdoors—camping, enjoying beach days, taking road trips, and spending time with my greatest accomplishments in life, my two boys, Jaxtyn and Jadyn. Currently, I am the Project Office Coordinator at Ojibwa Land Seniors. I am excited to work with our elders, get to know them, and listen to their wonderful stories. This grant is essential for helping our elders and their caregivers in our tribal community, and I am glad to assist in any way I can as we move forward.

Please feel free to call me at 906-353-6096 if you have any questions. I will be happy to help you in any way I can.

Miigwech, Joslyn Haataja

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AUGUST 2024

Around the Community Teens & Young Adults in Baraga County Can Enroll in Free ECigarette Quit Program Thanks to Collaboration Between KBIC Health System and Truth Initiative

young people who vape can get support at www.BecomeAnEX.org.

Employers, health systems and health plans can learn more about the EX Program, a quit-smoking and vaping service for employers at www.theexprograms.com for more informations about the program or to request materials contact Ashley at 906-353-4540.

Baraga, MI - With youth e-cigarette use remaining a serious public health threat and threatening to addict a new generation to nicotine, KBIC Health System has partnered with Truth Initiative to offer This is Quitting-the first-of-its-kind, free and anonymous text message quit vaping program with over 750,000 enrolled to date. Launched in January 2019, This is Quitting is designed for teens and young adults looking to quit e-cigarettes. The program provides them with tailored advice, cognitive and behavioral coping strategies, and social support to help them quit. Results from clinical trial published by JAMA Internal Medicine demonstrate the effectiveness of the program and found that young adults aged 18-24 who used This is Quitting from truth had nearly 40% higher ods of quitting compared to a control group.

Youth e-cigarette use remains a serious public health concern. More than two million teens reported vaping nicotine according to the 2023 National Youth Tobacco Survey, demonstrating that much more needs to be done to address this ongoing public health threat.

Young people in Baraga County who are looking to quit vaping can enroll in This is Quitting by texting SACREDBREATH to 88709.

“This is Quitting is meeting a need for hundreds of thousands of young people through a channel they’re comfortable with and use every day,” said Dr. Amanda Graham, Chief of Innovations at Truth Initiative. “Many young people now want to quit more than ever, and This is Quitting can help them get support quickly, discreetly and anonymously, wherever they are.” Through digital quit-smoking programs This is Quitting, EX, and the EX Program, Truth Initiative has a long history of innovation around developing engaging and effective quit programs and has helped more than a million tobacco users on their journey to quit. Parents of

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Sports

The L’Anse Varsity Girls’ basketball team attended a three-day team camp in Gaylord, Michigan, from July 29 to 31. During the camp, which featured 34 teams from across the state, the L’Anse Purple Hornets played eight games and achieved an impressive 80 record. The team includes three KBIC youth: Breyelle Bowers, Princess Pierre, and Kwynn Voskuhl.

KBIC Youth, Megan Mayo, Rylee Holm, Cara Connor, and Shayla Elmblad competed in the Iron Mountain Gus Macker on July 20-21 and earned 3rd place in the 17/18-year-old division.

Shaniya Elmblad and Lawson Waara represented KBIC Youth at the Iron Mountain Gus Macker tournament on July 20-21.

Shayla Elmblad was 1st Attendant at the Strawberry Festival.

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AUGUST 2024

Youth Programs KBIC Youth Experience Thrills at Wildman Adventure Resort On July 13, the KBIC Youth Programs provided an unforgettable experience for youth ages 12-17 with a trip to the Wildman Adventure Resort in Niagara, Wisconsin. The group had the exciting opportunity to try their hand at white water rafting, an adventure that took them down the scenic Menominee River.

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Casino Promotions

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AUGUST 2024

A low-interest, 30-year fixed mortgage (a fixed mortgage means your interest rate will stay the same over the full life of the loan). The current VA interest rate for NADLs starts at 2.5%. To find out what your interest rate will be, contact an NADL coordinator by email at NADL@va.gov or by phone at 888-349-7541 (TTY: 711). We’re here Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. ET.

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