June 2023

KBIC NEWS

ODE’MINI GIIZIS – STRAWBERRY MOON

KBIC Unveils New Look to the Community

2023 TRIBAL COUNCIL

Doreen Blaker, President

Toni J. Minton, Vice President

Elizabeth "Liz" Julio, Secretary

Robert R.D. Curtis, Jr, Asst. Secretary

Theodore "Austin" Ayres, Treasurer

Eddy Edwards

Everett Ekdahl, Jr.

Sue Ellen Elmblad

Randall Haataja

Kim Klopstein

Susan J. LaFernier

Rodney Loonsfoot

IN THIS ISSUE

PRESIDENT'S REPORT

CEO'S CORNER

INTRODUCTION OF ASSOCIATE JUDGE

ANISHINAABE

DENTAL OUTREACH

KBIC HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATES

The KBIC Marketing and Communications department, alongside CEO Brigitte LaPointeDunham, has been working with the Marketing Department Inc. out of Houghton, Michigan, to develop a new tribal website for the community and the newly released KBIC logo, also known as the official tribal seal.

Key Elements of the Logo:

The Connection to All That is Spiritual: At the center of the logo is an Eagle, a visual representation of strength and healing.

New flooring and the new logo can now be seen in the atrium of the Niiwin Akeaa Community Center in Baraga.

Office of the President

Boozhoo Gakina,

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

05/03/2023 Regular Meeting

Approved ITC Addendum to Mental Health & Delivery System for Native Americans FY 2022-2023

Approved ITC Resolution for data collection. Vice President Minton administered the Oath of Office to newly appointed Associate Judge Tashina Emery.

05/10/2023 – Regular Meeting

Approved an updated Organizational Chart for the Health Clinic.

Approved a Locums Tenens Agency Contract.

Approved Baraga Lumberjack Donation for $10,000

Approved $500 donation for Baraga American Legion Post #444

Approved Intertribal Timber Consortium donation of $500.

Approved Tribal Social Service Organizational Chart amendment for a Title IV-E Specialist.

Youth Committee appointments for three years: Hope Laramore, Sheila Royal, Jailyn Shelifoe.

Health Board appointment for three years: Tyler Larson

Reviewed and selected a new tribal logo to be revealed in June to membership.

Approved bid from American National Insurance Company for pension closeout.

First Reading of Ordinance 2023-01 Amendment to Title 10 1 Definitions and 10 2 Commercial & Subsistence Fishing.

05/17/2023 – Regular Meeting

Approved the proposed policy additions to include definitions and provisions for both school-year employees and year-round school-based employees

Ended the Language Instructor contract.

Released the Symetra Life Insurance Group and M3 life insurance policy information that may be purchased by KBIC members. (Additional coverage purchase by individuals)

Established the Associate Judge starting wage of Grade 15 - $33 80

Reinstated the hiring of Appeal Officers in the Employee Grievance Policy.

Appointed Attorney Karl L. Numinen as an Appeals Officer for a hearing at the hourly rate of $250.

05/24/2023 - Regular Meeting

First Reading of Proposed Ordinance 2023-02 –Adopting & Enacting a New Code for the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community.

Approved July 3-5, 2023 for the observance of the July 4th holiday for employees.

Second Reading of

Proposed Ordinance 2023-01 – Amendments to Title 10.1 Definitions and 10.2 Commercial and Subsistence Fishing.

Approved a donation of $500 to the Baraga County Lions Club

Approved a change order for the Marquette LED Sign Project for $64,694.

Reviewed, corrected and approved the Tribal Council Meeting Minutes for January 18, January 25, February 1, and February 8 of 2023.

Approved Resolution KB-027-2023 Appointment of KBIC Elder Delegates & Alternate to the Michigan Indian Elder Association Board.

Approved the bid of $64,100 by Matthew Desrochers for the South Beartown Forest Road Improvements

Approved the KBIC Education Department’s College Intern Program.

Approved Resolution KB-031-2023 401 Certification

Request for Baraga County Road Commission –Bayshore Riprap Project, Corps File #LRE-2023-0028138-N23.

Scheduled the 3rd Reading of Proposed Ordinance 2023-01 – Amendments to Title 10 1 Definitions & General Provisions and 10.2 Commercial & Sustenance Fishing for June 7, 2023.

Approved Phase 1 of the Marquette Casino Development for $2,768,652 for the RV Park.

Approved $3020 donation for the Bill Jondreau Memorial Cornhole Tournament t-shirts

Acknowledgements

On behalf of the Tribal Council, I would like to say Miigwetch to the following departments:

The KBIC Natural Resource Department who worked many long hours during the walleye spearing season, monitoring the lakes and doing creel work for tribal harvest accountability

KBIC Tribal Police & Conservation for ensuring the safety of our tribal fishers as they wentouttoexercisetheirtreatyrightsduringthewalleye-spearingseason

TheKBICSolidWastefortheplanningandimplementingasuccessfulSpringClean-upof thereservationandsurroundingareas

KBICPublicWorksforassistingandworkingontheSpringCleanup

The KBIC Housing Department for the use of the equipment and temporary employee hiresforSpringCleanup.

5/31/2023 - Regular Meeting

First and foremost, I am so pleased to announce the unveiling of a new logo that represents the rich heritage, culture, and unity of the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community. This process to reach today took a lot of careful consideration and collaboration In the end, we have developed a logo that truly captures the spirit and values of our community. The deep connection to the land and traditions as well as the natural beauty that surrounds us is reflected in this new look. From here on out, it will serve as a symbol of of our unity and resilience, while honoring the traditions and legacy of those before us I don’t know if you know this but the Tribe is in a state of transition so this new look aligns with that My hope is for the next generation of community leaders to come forward, 40 years from now, with the idea of an even more progressive look. If so, that means we are continuing onward and the impact of community is continuing to be felt amongst KBIC. With this new look comes change Look for changes with what you receive from us, how you receive it, new brand images on tribal vehicles, building signage, the tribal flag will eventually be updated, and more. This will all come together when the new website is revealed, with a member portal for access to all important forms, documents, and licenses, and access to all that is KBIC is seen It is a great time to be apart of KBIC!

Be on the lookout for other tokens of our new look in your mailbox very soon!

For the month of May, I:

Held a Quarterly Department Head meeting

Attended NMU Board of Trustees meeting and commencement

Met with the Associate Commission, Aysha Schomburg, and staff from the Administration for Children and Families

Met with 12 Bravo administrators for Tribal Social Services case management

Attended the 2nd Annual U P CEO Summit in Marquette

Met with ACF staff and submitted first AFCARS2020 file for TSS

Met with NMU about 2024 KBIC Spring Contest

PowWow

Participated in a Retirement Plan Committee meeting

Met with Amplifund staff to discuss on-site training for KBIC

Met with Marketing Department consultants and Marketing Communications Coordinator to finalize brand messaging

Met with Amazon Business representative

Participated in a Policy Review Workgroup meeting

Met with Representative Jenn Hill and staff

Participated in on-site visit from Bureau of Justice

Administration staff for Police Department

infrastructure renovation grant planning

Participated in a meet and greet with full-time dental recruit candidate

Attended Lake Superior Community Development Board of Directors meeting

Held Social Service Specialist interview

Held two Indigenous Insight updates

Attended three Tribal Council meetings

Held weekly and monthly department head update meetings

Our Policy review workgroup continues to meet and have plans to address council in a special meeting in the next month to approve changes all the way up to Section 12 0 of our Personnel Policy Handbook All changes will be reported on and updated with staff.

As a reminder, Government offices are closed June 19th and then for the 4th of July holiday – July 3rd, 4th, and 5th.

There is so much to look forward to throughout the summer months Take time to enjoy each moment with your family and friends and soak up every second of sun. We all know we live for the U.P. summers and there is no better place to be during this time than on the shores of Lake Superior!

Stay healthy, Brigitte

(CONTINUED FROM PAGE BEZHIG)

Tribal Elements: Surrounding the eagle, the vital role of water is emphasized as well as the sun overlooking beautiful Lake Superior with rays of light casting upon it. Seven sun rays are intentionally used to signify the seven generations and seven grandfather teachings that are characteristics of the Ojibwe culture and traditions.

Unity and Resilience: The logo's design highlights the interconnectedness of the elements, weaving together to form a harmonious whole. This signifies the strength, unity, and resilience of the community, serving as a reminder of its collective commitment to supporting and uplifting one another. The date of December 17, 1936 is included to represent the date the Constitution and Bylaws of the KBIC was approved and enacted by the U.S. Department of the Interior

The logo will be prominently featured across various communication platforms, signage, and official document. It will serve as a visual representation of KBIC's values and aspirations, fostering a sense of pride and belonging among its members. Tribal leadership is excited about the change and want to thank all staff and members of council who had a hand in this project of collaboration. The past KBIC logo had been in place since 1985.

KBIC Tribal Council Appoints New Associate Judge

Tashina Emery, the KBIC Tribal Court's new Associate Judge, was sworn in on Wednesday, May 3, 2023, at the regularly scheduled Tribal Council meeting. Tribal Council Vice President Toni Minton had the honor of performing the swearing-in ceremony.

Clearing of the sky cloud woman Misanaquadikwe, in Ojibwa, is her spirit name the one who can clear a cloudy day. She is the daughter of Jeanne Emery. She taught during the day as the Liberal Studies Department Chair at the Keweenaw Bay Ojibwa Community College and will continue as an Adjunct Professor while transitioning into her new role as the

Keweenaw Bay Indian Community Tribal Court Associate Judge. Her mother and her position teaching empowered her urgency to assist her people She has always tried to find where her people need her most, and her goal is to serve our community in any capacity. When our community lost such a prominent figure, she knew it was time to step up and asked The Tribal Council for the honor to fill such shoes, filling for the Associate Judge. She is honored to get the chance to support our people impartially and unbiasedly toward healing through our Tribal jurisdictional branch

She obtained her Bachelor’s of Art & Design from the University of Michigan in 2015. Then receiving her Master's in Art & Public Policy from New York University while living in New York City for two years, always returning home to work for her people. Upon teaching at the KBOCC, she earned her second Master's in Creative Writing, attending the Tribal College Institute of American Indian Arts, which she graduated a year ago in May of 2022.

Mikinaak nindoodem. Her clan is of the Turtle, the knowledge keepers, the intellectuals and the lawmakers. They are responsible for mediation, justice, and law-making The turtle clan brings consensus and resolution to conflicts They assist with decisions if there are disagreements between clans. Much like the Earth, the turtle clan represents roots, growth, and stability. The clans represent our people’s system of strength and order.

Tashina is doing it all while being a first-time mother, worrying and caring for her little brown baby and all future brown babies. Her greatest accomplishments is her son. I see in every day, the good in him, he is what people need, his spirit name, Zhaawinoo-gahbow-inini, Man Who Stands in the South. As she defines with clarity daily, her goal is to address sustainable changes in her community and hopefully Indian Country

KBIC Pre Primary Hosts Drum

Social

The social activity was a collaboration with the KBCI PrePrimary Program and the KBIC Baraga Head Start classroom, in conjunction with it being the last day of school for the KBIC Head Start classroom for the Summer Community members attended The social well, including Tribal President Blaker, who danced a few rounds with the young ones.

Auddie Jr. and Auddie III, Marty Curtis, Raistlin Awonohopay, Demery Connor, and Dana Awonohopay provided the drum and singing

All enjoyed a feast of Wild Rice Soup by Cook Shawnee and Fry Bread by Rez Robin.

Mouth Guards Protect Against Injuries

teeth and jaw fractures, as well as injuries to your lips, tongue, cheeks, jaws. temporomandibular joints and face. A mouth guard also helps prevent the teeth from cutting through the soft tissues of the oral cavity.

Broken or knocked-out teeth do not grow back. Protect that perfect smile and wear a mouth guard.

If I have braces, can I wear a sports mouth guard?

Mouth guards are recommended for people of all ages who participate in any activity or sport that poses a risk of damaging the face. The American Dental Association recommends the use a mouth guard to protect against injury to the teeth, gums, soft tissues and face from physical injuries.

Contact sports include, but are not limited to, football, soccer, boxing, basketball, field hockey, ice hockey, volleyball, boxing, and wrestling. Sports mouthguards can also be used for other non-contact sports and activities that may cause damage to the mouth, such as gymnastics, biking, skateboarding, and ice and roller skating.1

Types of sports mouth guards:

Stock mouth guards are ready-made and are available at some big box and sporting goods stores These come in a range of sizes and are not personalized for each individual mouth. These are the least expensive. Boil and Bite mouth guards soften when placed in hot water. These are then adapted to the wearer's individual mouth through bite pressure and manipulation of fingers and tongue These types of mouth guards are found at some big box and sporting goods stores.

Custom Mouth Guards are fabricated in a dental office from a patient’s mouth impressions. A custom mouth guard provides the best fit, comfort, and efficiency. The dentist can determine which athlete requires a custom mouth guard Comfort is an important aspect to keep in mind during the selection process because a mouth guard only works if it is worn. This option requires a dental office visit and is more expensive

Frequently asked questions:

Do mouthguards prevent injuries?

Yes! Numerous studies show that a mouth guard provides a cushioning effect between teeth and redistributes the forces of any damaging impact Mouth guards can help prevent serious dental injuries, like broken and knocked out

Yes! It is particularly important to wear a mouth guard if you play sports and wear braces. Mouth guards will not only protect your teeth, but also prevent the braces from accidentally tearing your lips, cheeks, and tongue. The braces themselves will less likely be damaged because of the protection a mouth guard provides.

Most orthodontists will recommend a custom-made guard These mouth guards will need adjustments as the braces begin to change the teeth alignment and will need adjustments over time.

It’s important to protect the substantial investment orthodontic treatment is making in long-term oral health.

How to care for a mouth guard?

It is important to take care of your sports mouthguard by cleaning it with soap and warm water after each use and soaking it in alcohol-free mouthwash. You can also prevent bacteria from growing by always storing it in a ventilated case when not in use so that it stays dry

You should also avoid leaving your mouth guard in direct sunlight or in a hot car. Be mindful of not ruining the mouth guard carelessly. Examples are dropping the mouthguard and stepping on it; forgetting where the mouth guard is and running it through the laundry; or wrapping the mouthguard in a napkin and throwing it into the garbage at a restaurant (YIKES!!)

Mouth guards can wear out, so it is important to regularly check for wear and tear. We recommend bringing the mouth guard to dental appointments so the dentist can check it for fit and wear in order to determine if it needs replacement. The dentist can also clean & sanitize mouth guards

Is a mouth guard only for upper teeth?

Typically, a mouth guard only covers the upper teeth. However, in some situations, the dentist may suggest a mouth guard for the lower teeth as well. If you wear braces, have a protruding jaw, wear other dental appliances, have experienced a broken jaw in the past, have had implants restored, or have had complicated restorations, then your dentist may recommend a mouth guard for lower teeth.

Final thoughts:

June is National Safety Month The National Safety Council promotes staying safe and alert

Mouth guards are an important piece of athletic equipment. For anyone involved in competitive or recreational activities where the risk of getting smacked in the face or mouth by a ball, stick, boot, puck, flying body part, or face plant into the ground exists, wearing a mouth guard is definitely recommended.

Ultimately, the most effective sports mouth guard is one you will wear. It should be comfortable, resistant to tearing, and durable, as well as fit properly, be easy to clean, and not restrict speech or breathing For more information, speak to your dentist

https://www.ada.org/en/member-center/oral-healthtopics/mouthguards https://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/aztopics/m/mouthguards

Andreasen JO and Andreasen FM, Textbook and Color Atlas of Traumatic Injuries to the Teeth, (Copenhagen: Munksgaard, 1994). 2. Andersson, L et al., “International Association of Dental Traumatology Guidelines for the Management of Traumatic Dental Injuries,” Dental Traumatology 28, no. 2 (2012): 88–96. Healthy Smile, Happy Life https://www nsc org/work-safety/getinvolved/national-safety-month

Thank you Your continued support means everything to me. Stay Strong,

Jessica A. Rickert, DDS, Anishinaabe Dental Outreach 231-313-8407, jrickert@deltadentalmi com; jarickert@charter.net

2023 KBIC High School Seniors

On behalf of the entire community, congratulations to each and every one of you. Your graduation from high school is a testament to your hard work, perseverance, and determination May you embrace the opportunities that lie ahead with confidence, courage, and a passion for making a difference.

Mariana Teikari L'Anse High School

Mariana is the daughter of Todd and Kristy Teikari

After high school graduation, Mariana plans to attend Keweenaw Bay Ojibwa Community during her Freshman year and then transfer to a different college during her second year

Kylie is the daughter of Betti Szaroletta and Don Michaelson

Kylie’s sports included from her Freshman to Senior year are as follows: Basketball, Volleyball, softball, and Track.

In her Junior and Senior years of basketball, she and her team won Districts and Regionals and fell short their Junior year to a great Fowler team. Coming into her Senior year, their team again won Districts and then Regionals and headed down to the Breslin Center in Lansing, MI, for the D4 State Championships, for which they beat Fowler in the first round and fell short to Glen Lake in the finals. They ended up Runner Up in the State D4. A school record. Quite an accomplishment for a small school in the Upper Peninsula.

During track, Kylie has always excelled in the Shot Put. She placed 3rd in her Junior year at UP Finals and qualified for UP Finals her senior year, held on June 2, 2023, in Kingsford, MI. During her senior seasons, Kylie also received 2nd Team All-Conference in volleyball and 1st Team All-Conference in basketball.

Kylie’s plans after high school graduation are to attend Bay College in Escanaba, MI, and study Business Administration She also committed to play D3 basketball at Bay College in the fall.

Javon Shelifoe Baraga High School

Javon is the son of Angela Dickson and James Shelifoe, Jr He participated in Basketball, Track, and Football, receiving WestPac Football Conference - First Team DL and All-UP Football First Team - Tackle his senior year He was also selected to participate in the June 2023 UP All-Star Football game at the NMU Superior Dome in Marquette, MI.

Javon was also a member of the Student Council and received the Outstanding Senior Award for the Class of 2023

Javon will attend Northern Michigan University this fall to pursue a degree in Business

Kylie Michaelson Baraga High School

Education Department Welcomes New Promise Neighborhoods Program Staff

The KBIC Education Department recently received a 5-year Promise Neighborhoods grant from the Department of Education, with an expected funding amount of $21,969.149.

Promise Neighborhoods grants provide coordinated support services and programs to students from lowincome backgrounds at every stage of their education, from early childhood through their careers.

The Keweenaw Bay Indian Community/Baraga County Promise Neighborhood will provide services focusing on health, education, families, career and technical education, culture, healthy relationships, financial aid, and postsecondary enrollment. "Braiding connections between Promise Neighborhoods, KBIC departments, and local schools, we plan to create a continuum of cradle-to-career services that will not only benefit the community's education system but create a culture of mentoring designed to empower our leaders of tomorrow," said KBIC Education Director Liz Julio.

For more information about the Promise Neighborhoods Grant:

https://oese.ed.gov/offices/office-of-discretionary-grantssupport-services/school-choice-improvementprograms/promise-neighborhoods-pn/

Hi, my name is Lisa Zasadnyj. I have been married to my husband for over 18 years. I have two beautiful daughters, Cassandra is a senior who has been accepted to Michigan Tech University and will attend this fall, and Paige is a

sophomore.

I have worked for the L'Anse Area Schools for the past 12 years as an At-Risk Aide and have enjoyed helping kids learn and watching them grow. I have accepted the Elementary (K-5) Specialist position through the KBIC Promise Neighborhoods. I love working with children and helping them learn new things

Hi, my name is Kyle Lake, and I am excited to join the KBIC Education department as the Middle School Specialist. I have over five years of experience working in Education from preschool ages all the way up to 12th grade.

You can find me on the golf course or pontoon free time to make a difference in of our KBIC community.

Promise Neighborhoods Program Staff: Back row l-r, Christine Awonohopay, Lisa Zasadnyj, and Kristen Dean, front row l-r, Jaycie Forcie, Betti Szaroletta, and Kyle Lake

Aaniin! My name is Jaycie Forcia. I am the new Promise Neighborhoods High School Specialist within the Education Department. I just graduated from KBOCC with an associate's degree in Liberal Studies and a focus on Social Sciences I have a beautiful, almost 2year-old son I am super excited to start working with high school students, their families, and teachers in both L'Anse and Baraga to support their educational journeys.

Hi, Im Betti Szaroletta, the College/Career Specialist for the Promise Neighborhoods Program. I have lived in Baraga since 2005 and before in Ontonagon. I have three daughters. I have two Associate's degrees in Elementary Education and Early Childhood Education.

I want to become an excellent resource for students going into college and those transitioning into careers.

Boozhoo! I am Christine Awonohopay and reside in Baraga I have been hired as the Anishnaabe Gikinoo'amaadiwin and will work in Baraga Area Schools. I am excited to return to working with our youth and families at Baraga.

I am a proud mom of five sons and two grandsons. I enjoy going to powwows, doing beadwork, and making regalia. I also love to fish and spend time on the pontoon.

My educational background comes with a Master's degree in Educational Technology, Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education, and an Associate's degree in Liberal Studies. I have over 20 years of experience working with children and families.

Boozhoo! My name is Kristen Dean, and I will fill the role of our education department's Scholarship Coordinator.

I am an enrolled member and the niece of the late Fred Dakota I have two absolutely amazing kiddos, Trysten and Bentleigh. Outside of work, they keep me busy, and in my downtime, you can find me in my "rock shop!"

It is an honor to finally utilize my Associate's

degree to serve our tribal community. I look forward to helping present and future students in any way I can.

Miigwech

KBIC

College Students Earn

Honor's/Dean's List

The KBIC Education Department would like to recognize the following college students placed on the Hontor's, Dean's, or President's List at their respective schools for the Spring 2023 semester. The list is compiled of those who submitted transcripts to the Education Department following the end of the Spring 2023 semester.

Congratulations, it takes hard work and dedication to achieve such accomplishments. KBIC is proud!

DySean Allen - President's List: 4.0 GPA, School: Central Michigan University, Major: Pre-Medicine

Joshua Bartle - Dean's List, School: Keweenaw Bay Ojibwa Community College, Major:

LeRoy Gauthier - Honor's List, School: Keweenaw Bay

Ojibwa Community College, Major: Business Administration

Zelina Huhta - Dean's List, School: Keweenaw Bay Ojibwa Community College

Madison Kelly - Dean's List, School: Keweenaw Bay

Ojibwa Community College

Angel Loonsfoot - Dean's List, School: Keweenaw Bay

Ojibwa Community

Jenna Messer - Dean's List: 3.76 GPA, School: Michigan Technological University, Major: Social Science

Leeah Owens - Dean's List, School: Keweenaw Bay Ojibwa Community College, Major: Early Childhood Education

Jason Paquette - Dean's List: GPA, School: Keweenaw Bay

Ojibwa Community College

Annaleese Rasanen - Part-time Dean's List

Joshua Robinson - Dean's List, School: Keweenaw Bay

Ojibwa Community College

Richard Tilson - Dean's List, School: Keweenaw Bay

Ojibwa Community College

Brayden Velmer - Dean's List: 3.78 GPA, School: Northern Michigan University, Major: Multimedia Production

KBIC Spring 2023 College Graduates

Congratulations, college graduates! May your future be filled with endless possibilities and immense success.

Brayden Velmer, Bachelor of Science Multimedia Production, Northern Michigan University

Leeah Owens, Associate of Science Early Childhood Education, Keweenaw Bay Ojibwa Community College

Anthony Veker, Associate of Arts Liberal Studies, Keweenaw Bay Ojibwa Community College

KBIC Youth, Dalanna Connor, Cara Connor, and Delenna Loonsfoot took home 1st place at the Gus Macker held in Ishpeming on May 20 and 21 Their team went 5-0 in the tournament.

Landon Smith, 8th grade, for the Baraga Middle School Track team, took home 1st place in the 200 Meters at the L'Anse Middle School Invite on May 16, 2023.

Chase Picciano for the Braves baseball team makes it to third base during a game in the Baraga County Little League.

Minors Girls Softball team consists of KBIC Youth, Lorin Hueckstaedt, Sadie Voakes, Lilianna LaPlante, McKenzy Kinnunen, LoriAnn Swartz, and Mikah Pallas.

(second from left), Kwynn Voskuhl (third from left), and Breyelle Bowers (fourth from left) The relay team took 1st place at the Houghton Middle School invite on May 10, 2023, and set a new record at L'Anse Middle School, beating the old record by one second They, again, broke their record at the MHSAA Middle School Regional in Calumet on May 31, 2023, surpassing their current record by two seconds

L'Anse Middle School 4x200 relay consists of KBIC Youth Keira Dix

Matthew Stein, 8th grade, for the L'Anse Middle School Track team during the 800 Meters at the L'Anse Middle School Invite on May 16, 2023

Breyelle Bowers for the Northland Elite Basketball Club goes up against a defender during the Twin Ports Border Battle in Superior Wisconsin on May 20 and 21.

Paxton Geroux for the Braves baseball team makes it to third base during a game in the Baraga County Little League.

Devin Connor, 7th grade, for the Baraga Middle School Track team during the High Jump at the L'Anse Middle School Invite on May 16, 2023

Keira Dix, 6th grade, for the L'Anse Middle School Track team, takes off in the 4x400 Relay L'Anse placed 2nd in this event

Michael Delich, 6th grade, for the L'Anse Middle School Track team during the Long Jump at the L'Anse Middle School Invite on May 16, 2023

Sam Lee, 7th grade, for the L'Anse Middle School Track team, takes off in the 4x400 Relay. L'Anse placed 3rd in this event.

Breyelle Bowers, 7th grade for the L'Anse Middle School Track team, crosses the finish line to take first place in the 4x200 Relay event at the L'Anse Middle School Invite on May 16, 2023.

Princess Pierre, 7th grade, and Kwynn Voskuhl, 7th grade, for the L'Anse Middle School Track team, exchange the baton during the 4x400 Relay event at the L'Anse Middle School Invite on May 16, 2023. The relay team took 2nd place.

Shayla Elmblad, 10th grade for the Baraga High School Track team, competed in the High Jump in the Copper Country Invite at Houghton High School on Monday, May 15, 2023

Princess Pierre for the Northland Elite Basketball Club goes up against a defender during the Twin Ports Border Battle in Superior Wisconsin on May 20 and 21.

Shayla Elmblad, 10th grade for the Baraga High School Track team, competed in the High Jump in the Copper Country Invite at Houghton High School on Monday, May 15, 2023.

Dalanna Connor, 6th grade, for the Baraga Middle School Track team during the High Jump at the Houghton Middle School Invite on May 10, 2023.

Jadyn Chaudier, 8th grade, for the Baraga Middle School Track team during the High Jump at the Houghton Middle School Invite on May 10, 2023

Payton LeClaire, 7th grade for the L'Anse Middle School Track team, competed in the 200 Meter Hurdles event at the L'Anse Middle School Invite on May 16, 2023.

Minors Girls Softball team consists of KBIC Youth, Lorin Hueckstaedt, Sadie Voakes, Lilianna LaPlante, McKenzy Kinnunen, LoriAnn Swartz, and Mikah Pallas

Minors Girls Softball team consists of KBIC Youth, Lorin Hueckstaedt, Sadie Voakes, Lilianna LaPlante, McKenzy Kinnunen, LoriAnn Swartz, and Mikah Pallas

Dalanna Connor, 6th grade, for the Baraga Middle School Track team during the 100 Meters at the L'Anse Middle School Invite on May 16, 2023.

The Baraga Middle School Track team consists of KBIC Youth, Jadyn Chaudier, Landon Smith, Taven Lewis, Joshua Marcotte, Devin Connor, Dalanna Connor, and coach Rachel Clisch

Princess Pierre, 7th grade for the L'Anse Middle School Track team, competed in the 200 Meter Hurdles event at the L'Anse Middle School Invite on May 16, 2023 Princess took 2nd place overall.

Keira Dix, 6th grade, for the L'Anse Middle School Track team, took home 1st place in the 200 Meters at the L'Anse Middle School Invite on May 16, 2023.

Corbin Hebert, 6th grade, for the L'Anse Middle School Track team during the 1600 Meters at the L'Anse Middle School Invite on May 16, 2023

Around the Community

2nd Annual Children's Water Walk

An inspiring display of young activism as the 2nd Annual Children's Water Walk took place on May 10, 2023, along the shores of Lake Superior KBIC Head Start Director Terri Swartz and the Wiikwedong Collaborative organized this event to raise awareness and teach young children about the importance of clean water and how we need to take care of our water for future generations.

"Im hoping we're planting some seeds that will prosper in years to come so that we will have water walkers for future generations," said Terri.

Terri has been walking for the water for 13 years and carries an eagle staff gifted to her by her late friend and fellow water walker, Pauline Spruce.

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.