KBIC NEWS
GICHI MANIDOO GIIZIS -
KBIC Tribal Council Holds Reorganizational Meeting, Elects 2026 Executive Board
The Keweenaw Bay Indian Community (KBIC) Tribal Council held its reorganizational meeting on January 10, 2026. During the meeting, the Council certified the election results and welcomed newly elected officials, including Associate Judge Ariel Gougeon and Council Members Everett Ekdahl, Jr., Rodney Loonsfoot, Theodore “Austin” Ayres, and Mathew J. Shalifoe, Jr. Following the swearing-in ceremony, the Council elected the Executive Board for 2026.
2026 TRIBAL COUNCIL
Everett Ekdahl, Jr, President
Tony Loonsfoot, Vice President
Elizabeth “Liz” Julio, Secretary
Toni J. Minton, Assistant Secretary
Dale F. Goodreau, Treasurer
Theodore “Austin” Ayres
Doreen G Blaker
Robert R D Curtis, Jr
Sue Ellen “Suzie” Elmblad
Rodney Loonsfoot
Sam Loonsfoot
Mathew J. Shalifoe, Jr.
PRESIDENT’S REPORT
CEO'S CORNER
PRE-PRIMARY EDUCATION
The 2026 KBIC Executive Board is as follows:
President: Everett Ekdahl, Jr.
Vice President: Tony Loonsfoot
Secretary: Elizabeth “Liz” Julio
Assistant Secretary: Toni J. Minton
Treasurer: Dale F. Goodreau
The KBIC Tribal Council consists of 12 members elected by the voting membership to serve three-year terms. Tribal elections are held annually in December, with the reorganizational meeting taking place the following January.
2025 Tribal President, Robert R D Curtis, Jr swearing in the newly elected council members
2025 Tribal President, Robert R.D. Curtis, Jr. swearing in the newly elected Associate Judge.
(CONTINUED FROM COVER PAGE)
Tribal President Everett Ekdahl, Jr. leads Council business and oversees the various departments that report to the Office of the Tribal President. He is currently serving his second term as a
Tribal Council member, and has previously served as Tribal Council Vice-President.
President Ekdahl has dedicated more than 25 years of service to the community, including 22 years with the KBIC Police Department. Prior to his law enforcement career, he spent three years working in various KBIC enterprises. Outside of his professional responsibilities, President Ekdahl enjoys spending time with his family, coaching a variety of sports, and hunting.
“I am honored and grateful for the opportunity to serve our community as President of the Tribal Council. This role carries great responsibility, and I am ready to embrace the challenge and lead with dedication, respect, and commitment to the well-being of our community,” said, Everett Ekdahl, Jr.
“I’m honored and excited to lead alongside President Everett Ekdahl, Jr. Everett’s dedication to the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community, his experience, and his collaborative approach to leadership make him well-positioned to guide Tribal Council in the year ahead. I look forward to working together to support our departments, uplift our community, and continue moving important initiatives forward for our members,” said Brigitte Lapointe-Dunham, Chief Executive Officer.
As we welcome 2026, the new year invites us to pause, reflect, and recommit to caring for one another and strengthening our community. January is also recognized as Human Trafficking Prevention Month, a time to raise awareness, promote
education, and stand in support of those impacted by exploitation. Throughout this month, our Victim Services and Programs Department plays a critical role in leading prevention efforts, increasing community awareness, and providing advocacy and support to ensure safety, dignity, and healing for our members.
I hope everyone had a restful and meaningful holiday season, filled with time to reconnect with family, friends, and loved ones. As we return to the rhythm of daily life and settle back into our routines, it’s a reminder that even in the heart of winter, brighter days are ahead; before we know it, the sun will rise earlier, the days will grow longer, and the seasons will begin to shift once again.
As the year gets underway, the CEO’s Office is staying busy reviewing annual priorities, working through policy updates and new development, planning upcoming initiatives, and keeping up with the day-to-day work that keeps our government moving forward.
One priority that came into focus late last year is the need to strengthen our emergency preparedness planning. December’s winter weather and resulting power outages highlighted the importance of having clear, coordinated plans in place to support our community during emergency situations, both on the Reservation and at the Marquette Trust Property.
CEO’s Corner
In response, this work will be led through our Fire and Emergency Management Department and will include reengaging the Local Emergency Planning Committee (LEPC) to help guide planning, coordination, and communication efforts. Developing comprehensive emergency preparedness plans is a significant undertaking and will take time, but this work is an important step in ensuring we are better prepared, informed, and supported when emergencies occur.
On January 20th, KBIC will be recognized at the Baraga County EDC Community Update, where our L’Anse Housing Project will be honored as the EDC Project of the Year. This event is a great opportunity to share updates, connect with partners, and celebrate the collaborative work that continues to support housing and economic development in our region.
We also invite community members to join us on January 29 as we celebrate the grand opening and open house of the newly renovated Tribal Police Station. This event will provide an opportunity to tour the updated facility, connect with staff, and recognize the important investments being made to support public safety and serve our community. Light refreshments will be available, and all are welcome to attend.
Lastly, I want to share an update regarding changes to our motor vehicle and licensing fees, which went into effect on January 1, 2026. These updates are an important step in ensuring our Motor Vehicle and Licensing services remain sustainable, efficient, and able to meet the needs of our membership. Revenue from these fees helps support staffing, system improvements, and day-to-day operations that allow services to continue smoothly, while still maintaining reduced or no-cost options for seniors, veterans, and municipal vehicles. We appreciate the community’s understanding as we work to balance affordability with the long-term
stability of these essential services.
Government offices will be closed Monday, January 16 for Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. This includes the Donald A. LaPointe Health and Education Center.
th
Miigwech, and I look forward to 2026 with you!
Brigitte
Cannabis Update: KBIC’s Investment and Growth with Frostbite Management
The Keweenaw Bay Indian Community is invested in Frostbite Management, a Cannabis Company, through a shareholder agreement. Frostbite is owned 55% by Mashkiki. Mashkiki is a wholly owned non-profit corporation of KBIC’s. An additional 10% of Frostbite is owned by the Elder’s Trust Fund, which is also wholly owned by KBIC, and the remaining 35% being owned by Farm Science, a corporation owned by Mark Abrahams. Mark owns his own successful dispensaries and grow operations in lower Michigan.
KBIC is represented on the Board of Directors of Frostbite Management by Council member, Austin Ayres and Jennifer Misegan. Both were appointed to the Board in 2024. Austin also serves on the Board of Mashkiki alongside Council Members Doreen Blaker and Robert RD Curtis, Jr.
Frostbite Management hired Garry Tollefson, a KBIC member, as their General Manager in March of 2025. Gary has successfully operated multimillion-dollar businesses in the Marquette area as well as his own business, for many years. Garry brought extensive business and marketing experience that was much needed to Frostbite. When Garry came to Frostbite, they were operating two dispensaries; The Outpost Marquette and The Outpost Crystal Falls. KBIC had also recently purchased a former grow operation in Crystal Falls, Michigan, and was looking to get into that facet of cannabis.
Cannabis Update
Garry hit the ground running and took no time at all learning the operations and the very stringent regulations. He also began preparing the grow facility. Prior the licensing, several inspections were required by the Cannabis Regulatory Agency and the Bureau of Fire Services. The grow facility was finally issued a Class C Grower license on August 5, 2025. Dale Smith was hired as the Master Grower. Clones were purchased in September. Dale, along with Cultivation Technicians, David Dopkins and Anton Gohl, have been very busy. Approximately 90% of the start up supplies came from local small businesses including tribally owned businesses.
The very first harvest was December 2, 2025, with a wet weight of fifty-five (55) pounds between three different strains of marijuana. Two additional harvests have been made with the wet weight of those being just over ninety (90) pounds. These harvests will be available in both of the dispensaries by the end of January. Extensive testing is required by the CRA and must be completed prior to the product being available for sale.
Garry stated, “We have a very high profile, superior product that is new to this market. We will soon have over one hundred twenty (120) pounds of dry flower ready for retail and we believe the customers will be very impressed with our quality. The color is great, the buds are firm, it has a very pleasant aroma with some very distinct flavors. We are very pleased with the team we have in place!”
Information on the flower cannabis that will be on the shelves by the end of January and the next few weeks following that:
Cannabis Update
For more information regarding cannabis products, please visit our dispensaries:
The Outpost Marquette (906) 273-0945
3475 US-41 Marquette MI 49855 https://outpostmarquette.com
The Outpost Crystal Falls (906) 874-2231
32 Superior Ave. Crystal Falls MI 49920 https://outpostcf.com
https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/FF8YZ33
Anishnaabe Dental Outreach
Artificial Intelligence Impacts the Art and Science of Dentistry –
AI Part 2
Dentistry has always been on the cutting edge of science and technology. Now, Artificial Intelligence is transforming dentistry.
AI is used to generate and analyze digital images to assist in diagnosing conditions, predicting anomalies and planning surgeries. AI-powered diagnostic tools are achieving over 90% accuracy, resulting in early detection of dental diseases. Digital images include radiographs, magnetic resonance images (MRI) and cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT). Digital impressions result in highly accurate 3D models of a patient's teeth and oral structures.
Computer-Aided Design and ComputerAided Manufacturing (CAD-Cam) technology can fabricate restorations. 3D printing is used to fabricate dentures and dental devices.
Oral surgeons and Endodontists use image guidance for semi-automated implant surgery, removal of tumors and foreign objects, biopsies, and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) surgery. chatBot interfaces such as chatGPT, DeepSeek & GeminiLLM can enhance language processing, especially patient’s records.
Management of individual patient’s health status, medications and accommodations medications.
Electronic health records can enhance communication with other doctors. Customized patient education systems will increase patient understanding and lead to higher case acceptance.
AI models can predict treatment outcomes with up to 73% accuracy, improving treatment planning and lessening treatment timelines
Post-care instructions can be customized for each patient.
Better patient management like smart scheduling which allows for remote check-ins and fewer missed appointments.
Management of the business office, including staff management and dental insurance interactions.
Management of dental laboratory fabrications to enhance accuracy. Voice commands will be used for dental chairs and other equipment.
In dental education, AI tutoring systems have significantly improved dental students’ performance.
AI’s future developments in Dentistry
AI robots are being developed to assist dentists.
AI technologies can speed up clinical processes, allowing more patients to be treated.
Dental chairs will be able to monitor a patient's vital signs, anxiety level, weight, and warning the dental professionals if any variations are found.
AI is being used in the field of "bioprinting," which allows living tissue to be created in successive thin layers of cells and is used to reconstruct oral hard and soft tissues in the future.
Concerns
AI cannot duplicate clinical intuition, dentists' experience, or empathy, which are essential to providing optimal and individualized healthcare. AI does not possess intangible perceptions to
comprehend nonverbal cues which is possible only through face-to-face human conversations.
Aesthetic results require human evaluation. Human-to-human communication is so complicated that it cannot be easily translated into computer language. Can any artificial emotions of a robot convey kindness, compassion and competence?
Humans
The human touch itself is healing. There is healing in the human voice. Comfort and hope are powerful human-to-human interactions. AI is unable to experience associations as the human brain does, and each patient requires unique and complicated decisions. Higherlevel comprehension that depends on dentists' experience is necessary to conduct physical examinations, review medical histories, evaluate aesthetic results, and promote meaningful communication. Nonverbal assessment of the patient's hopes, anxieties, and expectations are part of every face-to-face interaction. These communication pathways are intuitive and unplanned. Can robots artificially convey healing emotions? What algorithm does that?
Future
AI is a useful and promising tool which is welcomed by dentists. The potential of an amazing future with new AI developments can only be achieved by brilliant young people who can imagine, create and design future applications. The possibilities are boundless. This will require the human brains of our students!
Anishinaabe Dental Outreach
https://adaj-15612.elsevierdigitaledition.com/1036/index.htmlh ttps:/www.indigigenius.org/%20https:/commo ns.wikimedia.org/wiki/Category:Artificial intel ligencehttps:/www.merriamwebster.com/dictionary/intelligencehttps:/ww w.britannica.com/technology/artificialintelligencehttps:/www.ibm.com/think/topics/ generativeaihttps:/www.ibm.com/think/topics/machinelearninghttps:/en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Neural n etwork_(machine_learning)https:/www.geeksf orgeeks.org/dsa/introduction-toalgorithms/https:/www.ibm.com/think/topics/ gpthttps:/pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9 418762/https:/www.dentaleconomics.com/scie nce-tech/artificialintelligence/article/55286570/5-ways-ai-is-ontrack-to-reshape-dentistry-in2025https:/nativenewsonline.net/sponsoredcontent/digital-trade-conference-announcedat-foxwoods-resort-casino
Mnamaadizin. Our Mission is to improve oral health through benefit plans, advocacy, and community support. Stay Strong,
Jessica A. Rickert,
231-313-8407, jarickert@charter.net
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Pre-Primary Education
Celebrating Culture,
Community, and Winter Traditions at Pre-Primary
At Pre-Primary we try to come up with new ways to incorporate the Ojibwa culture into our classrooms. Starting December 1, 2025, we have an Ojibwe Word of the Week that is chosen and shared with the staff. These words are to be included in the lesson plans in each classroom. Our teachers come up with activities or lessons that include the word so the children can learn more about the Ojibwa language and the culture. So far we have used Goon (snow), Zhingwaak (pine tree), and Nagamo (he/she sings).
On December 4, 2025 Maternal Infant Health came to visit our center to make a Christmas gift with the children, for their parents. They took the time to help each child make an ornament to take home. Inside the ornament was a ribbon that had been measured to match the height of each child, with a tag that read, “Merry Christmas from me to you, hang this ornament on your tree, so you can look back happily and remember how small I used to be.”
December 16, 2025, Austin Ayres came to visit us at the center to tell the story of bear giving his life for the people. He explained how
bear made a sacrifice for the people to help them. We got to see a real bear skin/ fur, see and touch a real moose antler, and learned a cool story.
On December 17, 2025, our preschool class, joined by the Head Start class (Baraga), went caroling at Superior View Complex. They sang Jingle Bells (Ojibwe and English) and We Wish You a Merry Christmas. The children also hand crafted Christmas cards for all of the residents. They had such a good time and can’t wait to go back.
On December 19, 2025, we had our annual Jiikamigad Biboon (Winter Celebration) with KBIC Early Head Start and KBIC Head Star our gathering, we had different stations that the children could choose from to make crafts or have some play time. There was Cookie Decorating, Pine Cone Bird Feeders, Snow Sensory Tables, Musical Chairs, Book Giveaways, and lots of delicious foods. The children got to take a picture with Santa Clause and put it inside an ornament to take home. Christmas gifts were set out for each child to come and pick their favorite. It was such an amazing time to come together and make everything so special for all of the children and their families.
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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 first-time HAV drivers on operating the wheelchair lift before their first trip.
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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.
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, ecigarettes, and all other forms of tobacco.
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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.
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.
Government
Current Job Postings
Plumber/HVAC Specialist
Seasonal Plant Tecnician
Dentist
Fishery Technician
RN or LPN
Tribal Attorney/Prosecutor
Social Services Specialist
HVAC Mechanic
Accounting Clerk
Youth Natural Resources Worker
Assistant CFO/Controller
Dental Hygienist (contracted)
Physician
February 9, 2026, at 4 pm
January 30, 2026, at 4 pm
Open Until Filled
Open Until Filled
Open Until Filled
Open Until Filled
Open Until Filled
Open Until Filled
Open Until Filled
Open Until Filled
Open Until Filled
Open Until Filled
Open Until Filled
Current Job Postings
Enterprise
BARAGA - IMMEDIATE OPENINGS
Bartender
Count Team Member
Front Desk Clerk
Guest Services Clerk
Line Cook Maintenance Worker Maintenance Worker
MARQUETTE - IMMEDIATE OPENINGS
Account Executive/Sales
Housekeeper
Slot Attendant
DATE
DATE
Until Filled
APPLY ONLINE: https://www.ojibwacasino.com/employment
Baraga HR Office: (906) 353-6333 x4188
Marquette HR Office: (906) 249-4200 x4705
*Tipped positions are guaranteed at least $15/hr in baraga and $16/hr in Marquette. Part-time = 37 hrs/week
Baraga HR Office at 906-353-6333 x4188 or Marquette HR Office at 906-249-4200 x4705
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Youth Programs
KBIC Youth Programs Host Annual Christmas Parties for Baraga and Marquette Counties
Youth Programs spread holiday cheer this December by hosting their annual Christmas Parties for youth and families in both Baraga and Marquette Counties. These festive celebrations brought community members together for two days filled with fun, laughter, and holiday spirit.
The Baraga County Christmas Party was held on December 13 at the Niiwin Akeaa Center, while the Marquette County celebration followed on December 14 at the Ojibwa Casino Events Center. Both events provided a warm, welcoming environment where youth could enjoy a variety of festive activities.
Throughout the parties, youth participated in cookie decorating, stocking decorating, face painting, and ornament making, allowing them to get creative while embracing the holiday season. A Christmas candy guessing game added excitement, while hot chocolate, lunch, and a Christmas movie helped keep everyone cozy and entertained.
One highlight of each party was a special visit from Santa, which brought smiles and excitement to the youth as they shared holiday wishes and posed for photos. The celebrations concluded with plenty of gifts, ensuring every child left feeling remembered and appreciated.
KBIC Youth Programs are grateful to all the staff, volunteers, and community members who helped make these events possible. The annual Christmas Parties remain a cherished tradition, reflecting KBIC’s commitment to supporting youth and celebrating the joy of the season together.
Smith Brothers Close Out Season
Together at Central Michigan
Another season of football has officially come to an end for the Smith Brothers. The season was wrapped up with an incredible experience in Detroit, playing in the GameAbove Sports Bowl against Northwestern at Ford Field. Dasan spent the majority of his second year on the starting line, a rare chance for a redshirt freshman, while Talon spent his true freshman year developing his skills to prepare him for the field next year.
When asked what advice they have for those looking to play at the Division 1 level, Dasan had this to say, "As a new player, you're going to be overlooked over and over again. However, it's how you respond to being overlooked that will determine how you will be as a football player. Never quit on yourself, never give up, stay motivated and push yourself farther than you thought possible." Dasan also said, "All I needed was a chance, and I got it."
This being the first season the two brothers being reunited after high school, they briefly shared the field together, Dasan playing left guard and Talon playing right guard. When asked if he feels like he is back in his brother's shadow, Talon responded, "No, I don't feel like I'm in his shadow. The coaches know we are brothers and view us as individuals. Dasan works hard at what he does, I'm waiting for my opportunity to show everyone what I'm capable of. We are both offensive linemen competing for the same job, potentially. We've been competing with each other since birth, so I feel we are in our element."
They both have full intentions on continuing to play at Central Michigan. We are looking forward to watching them both play together next season. Fire Up Chips!
Dasan (left) and Talon (right) with former Lions wide receiver, Calvin Johnson (aka Megatron) during their week long stay in Detroit.
Walking off Ford Field after the game
The Baraga 5th Grade girls basketball team received 1st place in the Gladstone Brawl for the Ball tournament this past weekend and secured a spot in the 2026 Michigan Middle School Basketball Championship in Ann Arbor in February.
KBIC Representation includes: Jadyn Lauritsen, Kyla Haataja, Emma Jossens, Mikah Pallas, Saylor VanAlstine and coach Megan Haataja
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