March 2025

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KBIC NEWS

ONAABANI GIIZI - CRUSTY MOON

National Nutrition Month: Celebrating Healthy Eating in the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community

March is National Nutrition Month, a time to highlight the importance of making informed food choices and embracing healthy eating and physical activity habits. For KBIC, National Nutrition Month is not only an opportunity to focus on nutrition but also to celebrate the rich cultural traditions tied to our food systems. This month, we reflect on how our traditional foods can guide us toward healthier lifestyles while fostering a deeper connection to our culture.

KBIC, like many Native American communities, has faced significant health challenges, including high rates of obesity, diabetes and heart disease. These health disparties can often

IN THIS ISSUE

PRESIDENT’S REPORT

CEO'S CORNER

YOUTH PROGRAMS CALENDAR

be traced back to disruptions in traditional diets and lifestyles, which were influenced by historical factors such as forced relocation and changes to food systems. As a result, many tribal members were introduced to highly processed foods that have contributed to these ongoing health concerns.

National Nutrition Month reminds us of the power of nutrition, not only to improve individual health but to strengthen our community. By reconnecting with our traditional foods, we can promote wellness in KBIC while honoring our cultural practices and the teachings of our ancestors

For centuries, the Ojibwe people have relied on a diet rich in locally sourced, nutrient-dense foods that are central to our culture and well-being. Our traditional foods, including wild rice, fish, game meats, berries, and maple syrup, provide a foundation for healthy eating that has stood the test of time. Here’s a look at some of the key traditional foods and their health benefits:

Wild Rice: A sacred and essential food for the Ojibwe, wild rice is packed with fiber, protein, and antioxidants. This whole grain supports heart health, digestive health, and overall wellness.

2025 TRIBAL COUNCIL

Robert “RD” Curtis, Jr, President

Everett Ekdahl, Jr, Vice President

Sam Loonsfoot, Secretary

Elizabeth “Liz” Julio, Asst. Secretary

Theodore "Austin" Ayres, Treasurer

Doreen G Blaker

Sue Ellen “Suzie” Elmblad

Dale Goodreau

Jeremy T. Hebert

Rodney Loonsfoot

Tony Loonsfoot

Toni J. Minton

Fish and Game Meats: Our community has always relied on fish such as walleye, trout, and salmon, as well as game meats like venison These foods are rich in lean protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and other essential nutrients that promote heart and brain health.

Berries: Blueberries, blackberries, and other native berries are a vital part of our diet. They are high in vitamins and antioxidants, which help combat inflammation and support overall immune health.

Maple Syrup: A natural sweetener harvested by our community, maple syrup is not only a delicious treat but also rich in minerals like calcium, potassium, and manganese, which contribute to bone and metabolic health.

Boozhoo Anin Gakina, For the month of January, the Tribal Council held the annual reorganization meeting and four special meetings. The following actions were taken:

Special Meeting 2/5/2025

Approved the amendment to the Tier II Services Agreement with OHM as presented

Approved the motion to appoint Melissa LaFernier to the Election Board

Approved the motion to appoint Paul Smith to the Natural Resources Committee

Approved Resolution KB-001-2025 as presented

Approved the bid from Fabick Cat for the purchase of a skid steer in the amount of $88,375.00 as presented

Approved the bid from Fox Negaunee Chevrolet GMC for a 2025 Chevrolet Traverse for the Ojibwa Casinos in the amount of $43,891.28 as presented

Approved the motion to appoint Michael Lahti to the Youth Committee

Special Meeting 2/6/2025

Approved Resolution KB-002-2025 as presented

Special Meeting 2/12/2025

Approved a donation in the amount of $1,500.00 to help with travel and lodging expenses for the L’Anse High School bowling team to attend the MHSAA Division 4 Regional Bowling tournament in Alpena, Michigan on February 21, 2025 as presented

Approved the motion to waive the requirement to possess and produce a fishing license as referenced in Title 38 Sections 38-158 and 38-159 only for the purpose of attending and participating in the 3rd Annual KBIC Family Ice Fishing Day Event at Otter Lake on February 15, 2025

Special Meeting 2/26/25

Approved the 2021 minutes from June 2nd, June 8th, June 9th, June 15th, June 16th, June 23rd, June 29th, and June 30th as presented.

Approved the addendum to the agreement with ITC for perinatal opioid use Disorder/Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome Initiative (NAS)

Approved the amendment to the motion regarding Bereavement Leave being granted for the passing of grandparent and great grandparent in-laws to be retroactive to February 10, 2025

Approved the amendment to the Bereavement Leavey Policy as stated.

Approved the donation in the amount of $600.00 for payouts in the Toss it Forward Sober Cornhole Tournament

Approved the HAF Policy amendment as presented

Approved Resolution KB-005-2025 as presented

Approved a donation in the amount of $5,000.00 for sponsorship toward the Inaugural NAIV Convention as presented

Approved the Powwow Committee Bylaws amendment as discussed

Approved Resolution KB-006-2025 as presented

Approved Resolution KB-007-2025 as presented

Approved the Tier II Services Agreement with U.P. Building & Development for siding replacement services at a cost of $58,500.00 and window replacement services at a cost of $8,500.00 as presented

Well, March came in just as fierce as I expected it. I hope everyone was able to stay safe and warm this opening week as we endured the crazy snow storm. I want to give our snow removal and plowing teams a HUGE shout out for the excellent work keeping things clear and safe for our Community

As we enter March, there is some uncertainty with what is happening at the federal level within our region, particularly regarding the key Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) offices These lease terminations have the potential for significant implications for KBIC and other tribes in Michigan and Wisconsin.

Recently, the BIA announced the closure of the Michigan Agency in Sault Ste. Marie and the Great Lakes Agency in Ashland, WI as well as the BIA Office here in Baraga. These offices currently serve 22 tribes, but their responsibilities will now shift to the already overburdened Midwest Regional Office (MRO) in Bloomington, MN. This change will increase the MRO’s workload by nearly 400%, stretching resources even thinner.

How will this impact KBIC? While some departments will see minimal changes, others may face challenges, including delays in critical services and increased costs for essential programs. The closure of the Michigan Agency will disrupt land transactions, lease approvals, and ownership inquiries, leading to potential delays in realty services for KBIC members. Additionally, the loss of the Great Lakes Agency (GLA) will eliminate access to BIA transportation engineers, requiring the Tribe to hire private firms at significantly higher costs—an issue we have encountered before, where private engineering quotes were up to eight times more expensive than BIA-provided services. The closure of the Baraga Village Office will also result in the loss of a local Roads Engineer, increasing construction costs and delaying future infrastructure projects.

In terms of forestry and fire management, funding for 638 contracts should remain stable. However, if staffing reductions occur, delays in funding approvals and fire suppression reimbursements could impact operations. Fire personnel may also face longer wait times for medical clearances and prescribed burn approvals, which would slow fire management efforts in the region.

Other tribal services, such as law enforcement, social services, education, and the court system, are not expected to experience major disruptions at this time However, if further staff reductions take place, delays in contracting and service responses could negatively impact multiple programs, including the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative with our Natural Resources Department.

As a leader, I am bringing this to the attention of our members now because the closure of these key BIA offices will have long-term consequences for our services, infrastructure, and overall tribal operations. While the physical closures alone may not immediately disrupt services, the potential loss of BIA staff and expertise could create significant delays, increased costs, and administrative burdens that will directly impact KBIC.

By addressing this now, we can prepare for the changes ahead, advocate for continued funding and staffing, and work to minimize negative impacts on critical programs such as realty, transportation, forestry, and fire management. Additionally, with the Midwest Regional Office expected to absorb the mentioned 400% increase in workload, it is crucial that we stay proactive in ensuring our tribal needs are met and that our voices are heard in discussions about federal resource allocation.

This is an opportunity for us to work together as a community to navigate these changes, seek solutions, and ensure that we continue receiving the services and support necessary for our longterm success and self-sufficiency. I will continue to update the community on happenings like this as much as I possibly can

This month, we celebrate the retirement of Lisa Denomie, our long-time Director of Pre-Primary Education, on March 20th. Under Lisa’s leadership, our Tribe has been able to provide comprehensive,

convenient, and reliable child care and educational services for children ages 0-5. Her dedication has helped shape a strong foundation for our youth, ensuring they receive the support they need to grow and thrive.

Lisa has been, and will continue to be, an active advocate for our children and culture, inspiring many in our community. As she enters retirement, we wish her joy, fulfillment, and well-deserved relaxation. On behalf of KBIC, we extend our deepest gratitude to Lisa for her 35 years of dedicated service.

Our 3rd Annual Keweenaw Bay Band of Lake Superior Ojibwe Spring Contest Powwow will take place April 18 – 20 in Marquette at Lakeview Arena. Registration for dancers and drums has begun as well as continued planning by our Pow Wow Committee. Please continue to spread the word about this great event and let’s make this the best year yet! It is definitely something myself and my family have started to look forward to every Spring.

Again, this year, I couldn’t close this month’s article without talking about March Madness (NCAA Basketball Tournament)– the best time of the year for college basketball. My predictions are UCONN for the Women’s bracket and I feel Duke (AGAIN this year) will make a run and win it on the Men’s side.

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.

The History of Dental Floss

After working outside, those mud-caked hands require thorough handwashing. It is important to clean between all the fingers by opening and soaping between the fingers.

When we clean our teeth, it is likewise important to clean between the teeth Flossing removes debris and other particles from between your teeth that a toothbrush cannot reach.

Before Columbus, arrived Native Americans used pine needles, hair, thin sticks and the fibers from wood to clean between the teeth. These chewsticks and other methods were used by Indigenous tribes for hundreds of years.

In 1815, a New Orleans dentist, Dr. Levi Spear Parmly, began advising his patients to use a thin silk thread to clean between their teeth. In 1882, the Codman and Shurtleft Company in Massachusetts began mass marketing an unwaxed silk dental floss on store shelves, and in 1896, the first dental floss made by Johnson & Johnson was made from the same material that doctors used for silk sutures. In the 1940s, nylon replaced silk as the material of choice for dental floss due to shortages and the rising costs caused by World War II Waxed floss soon followed, and in the 1950s, dental tape debuted.

James B. Kirby, the inventor of the Kirby vacuum, created the first floss pick in 1963. The floss pick is a small, angled dental flossing tool that doubles as a toothpick.

Today, there are many types of dental floss available – some are made with newer material like Kevlar, Gore-Tex and offer different textures, such as extra-soft or spongy floss. Floss with stiffened ends is intended to aid in getting around braces or other dental devices.

To make it easier to clean between the teeth, consider floss holders, interdental plaque removers or a water flosser.

Can flossing really increase life expectancy and improve health? YES! Because excellent dental health is closely linked to improving overall physical health, well-being, and quality of life.

Here are some surprising uses for dental floss: Slice foods such as soft cheese, cake, eggs, banana bread, and canned cranberry sauce.

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Sliding floss under cookies can work better than a spatula.

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Jewelry making and restringing broken jewelry.

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Emergency shoelace: you may have to double for added strength.

Hang Christmas ornaments and string popcorn. The option of green color will compliment any Christmas décor.

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Hang picture frames; you may have to double for added strength.

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Ring remover.

Cleaning crevices such as stove dials and other tight places with spongy floss.

Sewing repairs.

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9. Prisoners have managed to escape from jail by weaving dental floss into a rope as thick as an electrical cord (not recommended).

Dental floss is produced in almost every country in the world The USA and China are the largest floss manufacturers, and there are thirty-three manufacturers in USA. Toof for Tribes is a program specifically designed by and for Native Americans. Floss the teeth you plan on keeping and improve your physical health!!!

https://www.backthenhistory.com/articles/the-history-of-dental-floss https://blog.deltadentalmn.org/the-history-of-dental-floss& https://www.deltadentalnj.com/blog/entry/2021/original-tooth-brushinghabits-of-native-americans https://oralteethcom/when-did-flossing-teeth-becomepopular/#: :text=Prehistoric%20Times http://wwwhistoryofdentistrynet/dentistry-history/history-of-dental-floss/ https://wwwspeareducationcom/spear-review/2013/01/a-brief-history-ofdentalfloss#:~:text=1882%3A%20Unwaxed%20silk%20floss%20is,development%2 0is%20credited%20to%20Dr. https://oralb.com/en-us/oral-health/dental-floss-history/ https://www.aarp.org/home-family/your-home/info-2022/uses-for-dentalflosshtml?msockid=0e9d40c285b36f0c1ee252a984606e4d https://wwwopenprcom/news/2734084/dental-floss-market-top-leadingcountries-companies-revenue https://wwwthomasnetcom/suppliers/usa/dental-floss-30530604? msockid=0e9d40c285b36f0c1ee252a984606e4d AboutTFT|ToofForTribes&https://wwwtooffortribescom/about-tft

Mnamaadizin. Our Mission is to improve oral health through benefit plans, advocacy, and community support. Stay Strong,

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CONTINUED FROM COVER PAGE

While our traditional foods provide a powerful foundation for good health, it’s also important to integrate modern nutrition practices to ensure long-term well-being. National Nutrition Month serves as a reminder of the importance of nutrition education and how we can make informed food choices that promote a healthy lifestyle for all community members.

KBIC is actively working to promote nutrition through various community programs, health initiatives, and collaborations. These efforts include:

Supporting Food Sovereignty: KBIC is focusing on food sovereignty by empowering community members to grow their own foods, access local food sources, and restore traditional agricultural practices. By connecting with our land and food systems, we are strengthening our community’s resilience and improving access to fresh, nutritious foods.

Nutrition Education: KBIC’s health programs provide valuable resources on healthy eating, including workshops, cooking demonstrations, and nutrition counseling. These programs aim to teach individuals how to make healthier food choices while honoring traditional foods.

Collaborations with Local Farmers and Producers: KBIC works with local farmers and food producers to increase access to fresh fruits, vegetables, and other healthy foods, helping to reduce food insecurity and promote healthier eating habits

National Nutrition Month

As we celebrate National Nutrition Month, it’s important to remember that healthy eating is not just about nourishing our bodies it’s also about fostering a stronger sense of community, identity, and pride in our culture. By embracing both traditional and modern nutritional knowledge, we can create a healthier future for our children and future generations.

The Keweenaw Bay Indian Community is committed to continuing its efforts to restore our food systems, promote healthy eating habits, and ensure that every community member has access to the knowledge and resources they need to live a healthy, fulfilling life.

This National Nutrition Month, let us reflect on the importance of nutrition in our lives and continue working together to build a healthier, more vibrant community. By honoring our traditions and integrating them with modern wellness practices, we can create lasting change for the future of the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community.

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The Mitten Kids Dental Exhibit Opens at Grand Rapids Children’s Museum

Grand Rapids, MI – February 21, 2025 – The Grand Rapids Children’s Museum (GRCM) has unveiled its newly enhanced Mitten Kids Dental Exhibit, designed to educate and engage children in the importance of oral health through hands-on activities and interactive displays.

The exhibit, a longtime favorite among visitors, now features an array of new elements, including a largescale gallery wall celebrating influential dentists throughout history. Among those honored is Dr. Jessica A. Rickert, the first Native American female dentist, whose groundbreaking career has paved the way for greater diversity in the field of dentistry.

Children visiting the exhibit can step into the role of a dentist, performing mock procedures, exploring dental tools and X-rays, and even cleaning the teeth of a puppet patient. The latest addition, a life-sized mouth model, offers an immersive experience where kids can practice brushing and flossing to remove “sugar bugs,” making oral hygiene both fun and educational.

Research suggests that engaging in dramatic play can help children build confidence, develop cognitive and social skills, and ease fears about realworld experiences including dental visits. By allowing children to familiarize themselves with the dentist's office in a stress-free environment, the exhibit aims to make future dental appointments more comfortable and encourage interest in STEMrelated careers such as dentistry.

“We know that play is a powerful tool for learning,” said Maggie Lancaster, CEO of GRCM. “This exhibit not only helps children become comfortable with the dentist but also introduces them to the possibilities of a career in dentistry. As a child, I wish I had been able to play through the experience first just like kids can now do at GRCM. This exhibit helps make dental care approachable, fun, and exciting.”

A key highlight of the new gallery wall is its emphasis on representation, ensuring that children see professionals who reflect diverse backgrounds Dr. Rickert, whose career has been dedicated to breaking barriers and advocating for underserved communities, hopes the exhibit will inspire young visitors. “Whenever I ask, 'Have you ever seen an American Indian dentist?'” she said. “The answer is always 'No.' The GRCM’s dental exhibit can change that ”

The exhibit is made possible through a partnership with Mitten Kids Dentistry & Orthodontics, with additional support from the Michigan Dental Association Foundation and the West Michigan Dental Foundation. “Our mission at Mitten Kids Dentistry is to provide the highest level of pediatric dental care and to foster health, wellness, and a sense of adventure in every child who comes through our doors,” said Dr. Brett Kingma, coowner and co-founder of Mitten Kids Dentistry “We are thrilled to partner with the GRCM!”

The Mitten Kids Dental Exhibit is included with museum admission and will be available through May 31, 2025. For more information and to plan a visit, go to grcm.org.

Youth Programs

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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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.

https://wwwkboccedu/employment/op enings/

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L’Anse 5th Grade Boys took first place at the Hanock Tournament on March 9, 2025.

KBIC YOUTH: Dalin Connor, Isiah DeCota, Kade Giddings, Swartz, and Fish, coached by KBIC member, Yancey DeCota.

L’Anse 4th grade boys team took home first place at the Hancock tournament on Sunday, March 9. 2025.

KBIC YOUTH: Drayden Forcia, Malechi DeCota, Kroy Ekdahl, Evan Ekdahl, William Barrett and coached by KBIC member, Sheila Royal.

Baraga 6th Grade Girls (UP QUEENS) took first place in their bracket in the WISH Tournament
KBIC YOUTH: Kaleigha Kalita, Aaliyah Loonsfoot, DaeLynn Denomie, Serena Chosa
Baraga 7th Grade Girls took third place in their bracket in the WISH Tournament
KBIC YOUTH: Georgia Larson, Kadynce Loonsfoot, Adrianna Kyllonen, Madison Chaudier, Rilyn Lamson

Casino Promotions

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