MAY 2026
WWW.KBIC-NSN.GOV
ISSUE 41
KBIC NEWS WAABIGWANI GIIZIS - FLOWER MOON
KBIC Elder Nutrition Program Celebrates Caregivers Through Butterfly Garden Event On May 13, 2026, the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community Elder Nutrition Program welcomed community members to the Ojibwa Senior Citizens Building in Baraga for the A Caregiver’s Butterfly Garden Satellite Garden event. The gathering provided an opportunity for elders, caregivers, families, and community members of all ages to come together in recognition of the important role caregivers play within the community.
IN THIS ISSUE PRESIDENT’S REPORT
CEO'S CORNER COLLEGE GRADUATES ANISHNABE DENTAL OUTREACH PRE-PRIMARY EDUCATION
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
The event was part of a statewide initiative led by IMPART Alliance in partnership with AgeAlive at Michigan State University College of Osteopathic Medicine. The KBIC satellite installation connected local participants to the Upper Peninsula’s primary exhibit at the Ishpeming Multi-Purpose Senior Center while contributing to a growing network of Butterfly Gardens across Michigan. Throughout the event, attendees participated in a hands-on art activity that invited individuals to share their caregiving experiences by writing personal thoughts and messages on paper butterflies. Together, the butterflies formed a collaborative art installation
Mathew J. Shalifoe, Jr.
symbolizing resilience, compassion, healing, and connection. Within the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community, caregiving has long been rooted in cultural teachings centered on