November 2024

NOVEMBER 2024

WWW.KBIC-NSN.GOV

ISSUE 25

KBIC NEWS GASHKADINO GIIZIS - FREEZING MOON

KBIC Primary Election Results – November 2, 2024 On Saturday, November 2, 2024, Keweenaw Bay Indian Community (KBIC) members exercised their right to vote during the Primary Election. Due to the number of candidates, there was no Primary Election for the L’Anse District or the Chief Judge position. However, voters in the Baraga District cast their ballots to narrow down the list of candidates.

The results of the Baraga District Primary Election are as follows: Polling took place at the Ojibwa Seniors Center in Baraga, with 1. Tony Loonsfoot - 123 doors open from 10:00 AM until 2. Sue Ellen “Susie” Elmblad - 112 6:00 PM. The Primary Election 3. Larry Denomie III - 47 results determined the four 4. Patrick E. Racette - 47 candidates who will advance to 5. Alden “Auddie” Connor, Jr - 33 the General Election scheduled 6. Tashina Lee Emery - 30 for December 14, 2024.

7. Hope Laramore - 28

IN THIS ISSUE PRESIDENT'S REPORT CEO'S CORNER MEET THE CANDIDATES WAAWAASHKESHI CAMP ANISHNAABE DENTAL OUTREACH SPORTS HIGHLIGHTS

8. Kim Klopstein - 15 9. Debbie Picciano - 12 10. Gabrielle “Mabs” Picciano - 7 11. Matthew DesRochers - 4 Congratulations to the advancing candidates, and thank you to all community members who participated in the election. Your involvement ensures a strong and representative governance for KBIC. We encourage all eligible voters to participate in the upcoming General Election. Make your voice heard and shape the future of KBIC.

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

Office of the President Boozhoo Anin Gakina, For the month of October, the Tribal Council held six special meetings. The following actions were taken:

10/02/2024 Special Meeting Approved the following sub contractual agreements (Health) Families First Prevention Services Act Expansion (FFPSAE) FY 2024-2025 REACH Journey to Wellness Project Tribal Perinatal Opioid Use Disorder/Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome Initiative Maajtaag Mnobmaadzid Tribal Home Visiting Initiative Approved a Tier III Healthcare Service Agreement.

Approved a Residential Lease Amendment with Terrance and Suzanne Kahkonen.

Approved Resolution KB-051-2024 Modification of 2024-2027 Tribal Transportation Improvement Plan (TTIP).

Approved Change Order No. 1 for the Baraga Streets Project (KBIC Project 24-001).

Appointed Austin Ayres and JoAnn Clement to the Health Board.

Appointed Suzie Emblad to the Natural Resources Board.

Approved the Westlaw Contract (Attorney Office) 10/09/2024 Special Meeting Approved the L’Anse and Baraga District candidates running for Tribal Council for the November 2, 2024 Primary Election.

Approved the budgets for Ojibwa Casinos I and II as presented (Enterprise) Approved Resolution KB-056-2024 for a Limited Waiver of Sovereign Immunity exclusively for the contract between the Tribe and the Contractor (Gundlach) for construction of the KBIC Baraga Housing Building.

Approved Option 1 for Symetra Life Insurance, which keep the current rates for the upcoming year beginning November 1, 2024.

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Approved the preferred bid from Keweenaw Chevrolet for the purchase of two (2) trucks with snow plows in the amount of $128,242.00.

10/16/2024 Special Meeting Approved the addendum to the Memorandum of Cooperative Agreement for implementation of the mental health and delivery system for Native Americans.

Approved a donation in the amount of $1,000.00 for the Annual Community Thanksgiving meal by the L’Anse Methodist Church.

Approved the Enterprise budgets for FY2025.

Approved $75.00 gift cards for Government and Enterprise employees and Committee members for Thanksgiving and Christmas.

Approved $100.00 Walmart gift cards to Ojibwa seniors and $100.00 Pines gift cards and $300.00 bonuses to Government and Enterprise employees for Christmas.

Approved Resolution KB-057-2024 Pandemic Economic Relief Program.

Approved the sub contractual agreement with the Inter-Tribal Council of Michigan for the Food Farmacy Program in American Indian Communities, MI. Approved the preferred bid from McCoy Construction Forestry as presented in the amount of $269,450.00.

10/19/2024 Special Meeting Approved Resolution KB-058-2024 Amendment to the Marquette Health and Hardship Fund.

10/23/2024 Special Meeting Approved the transmitter bids from Broadcast Electronics in the amount of $206,739.00.

Approved the bid for automatic doors at the Casino to Keweenaw Glass & Door LLC for $33,270.

Approved the bid by Heartland Business Systems of $63,479.77 for the L’Anse Office Security System.

Approved the bid of $1,716,248 from Danielson Contracting, Inc. for Phase I of the L’Anse 30 Acres Housing Development (Infrastructure).

Appointed Ashley Shelifoe and Carole LaPointe to the Health Board.

Appointed Lisa Denomie as the Election Worker Alternate.

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Office of the President Approved a donation of $1123.12 to the Marquette Public Schools for a mural of the school’s new mascot.

Approved the Northcare Network Agreement as presented.

10/30/2024 Special Meeting Approved a donation in the amount of $5,000.00 for the Baraga County Area Youth Toys for Tots.

Approved a donation for the Annual Baraga Fire Department Children’s Christmas party in the amount of $1,000.00 Approved a donation in the amount of $200.00 for a full-page color ad in the L’Anse Area Schools yearbook.

Approved Resolution KB-053-2024 Proceeds of Labor Account – Request of Funds.

Approved the Service Agreement with LaCourt Bottled Gas to charge KBIC Members no more than $1.60 per gallon for propane during the months of November 2024 through May 2025.

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CEO’s Corner While November is widely known in our Community for Native American Heritage Month I also want to take a moment to highlight National Diabetes Month.

The impact that type 2 diabetes has on American Indian and Alaska Native (AI/AN) individuals and communities is significant.

Diabetes prevalence among AI/AN adults is the highest of any racial or ethnic group in the United States, and managing this condition often requires a strong support network of family, friends, community/public health, and healthcare providers. The work our providers play is a vital role in engaging families in diabetes treatment and prevention efforts. Encouraging patients to involve family members in lifestyle changes—such as making healthier food choices, increasing physical activity, and attending regular check-ups—can build support systems and promote lasting, positive health changes. Let’s all promote these important lifestyle changes to assist in guiding the journey to better health.

The month of October was spent moving forward with getting approved Department budgets together and complete. For FY25 a $67,120,373 budget was proposed and approved for Government operations and programming. 75% of our proposed budget comes from Grant and/or Contract Revenue and Fees/Other Revenue. The rest of the budget is supported through a Government Distribution or Tribal Support. The CEO and CFO offices provide Council with the upmost relevant information during the budget process for informed decision making. Changes and decisions are made from there and departments act on what was motioned and implement what’s required as directed.

I again felt this budget season that Department Heads were very prepared and efficient within their individual meetings. At times, there are many questions and decisions that need to be made for different departments and how it can be supported in the next year and beyond. I am always proud of

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our Department Heads for their efficiency and ability to understand the many moving parts that may make up their department and having the ability to verbalize that to council to justify their proposals.

There are currently 337 total active employees within 30 different departments that make up the KBIC Government.

There were recently two Department Head promotions announced. Amber Loonsfoot was promoted to the Community Assistance Program Administrator and Jesse Forcia to the Commodity Foods Program Director. Both have worked within their respective department for many years and bring great experience to their new positions. I want to thank them for taking on their new roles and cannot wait to work more one-on-one with them.

On November 8th, the KBIC Health Systems held an open house for the new Behavioral Health Clinic, Anishinaabeg Noojimo Wigamig, the People’s Healing Center. It was a nice reception with drumming, dancing, prayer, food, and overall community presence. Providers will begin seeing patients as soon as December 19th.

The Niiwin Akeaa Community Center gym is getting a new look! The floor is being replaced and should be finished up by the end of the month. This refreshed look and feel will be great for the many people and groups who partake in activity within the gym as well as for the many community events that are held there. Look for photos of the new floor on social media and in next month’s newsletter.

The Grants Office recently got notice of a 2025 allocation from the Tribal Opioid Settlement Fund in the amount of $153,846.00. This allocation is based on anticipated FY 2025 Appropriations for Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) and is subject to the availability of funds, MDHHS's anticipated Appropriation Act for FY 2025, MDHHS approval, and State Administrative Board approval. The funds will be used to support our current Substance Abuse Programs.

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CEO’s Corner In the meantime, the Substance Abuse Program team and Grant Manager are in the process of fulfilling the application process in the states grants portal system that includes completing a work plan and budget.

I want to provide an update on an important grant award from 2022. A request to modify and rescope the 2022 Justice and Mental Health grant award was submitted to the Department of Justice BJA Project Officer and approved in late October. The original grant work plan was created by a collaborative team at KBIC who are largely no longer in their positions. Without this original leadership team intact, the proposed project design is no longer feasible.

Members of the cross-agency team now include: Deanna Foucault, Project Director and KBIC Health Administrator, Dr. Sophina Calderon, KBIC Chief Medical Officer, Jennifer Misegan, Assistant CEO, Chief Judge Violet Friisvall Ayres, Assistant Tribal Attorney, Ashley Ball, Grants Manager, Cindy Cowell, Assistant Health Administrator, Elizabeth Mayo, LMSW, Colleen Buzzo, and Chief of Police Dale Goodreau.

After reviewing KBIC justice data, Tribal capacity, and feedback from the CSG technical assistance team, it has been determined that community wellness, safety, and the experiences of members who come into contact with the criminal justice system due to a mental health disorder, or mental health and substance abuse disorder, would best be served with a Pre-Arraignment Diversion Program.

The Pre-Arraignment Diversion Program will bring fragmented services currently available to

individuals in the community, and in jail, together into a seamless, multi-point entry, cross-system, community-based service array. All members of the team have shaped the plan based on their experiences and expertise in serving individuals with mental health or mental health and substance abuse disorders.

The team will continue to meet to update and solidify policies and procedures related to the program as well as to begin creating job descriptions and hiring for the needed positions in order for the program to function.

Also, in October, KBIC was notified that the Youth Department was awarded an Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention (OJJDP) Tribal Youth Program grant in the amount of $500,000 for five years (10/1/24-9/30/29). OJJDP’s Tribal Youth Program is Purpose Area 9 under the Coordinated Tribal Assistance Solicitation (CTAS). OJJDP’s Tribal Youth Program seeks to support and enhance Tribal efforts to prevent and reduce juvenile delinquency and strengthen a fair and beneficial juvenile justice system response for American Indian/Alaska Native Youth. KBIC’s project is a substance abuse prevention project. Below is a summary of the grant: I want to remind everyone that Government offices are closed for Thanksgiving (November 28th) and Native American Heritage Day (November 29th).

Next month, I will address the CEO Office goals and what we plan to focus on as we enter 2025. In the meantime, I hope everyone has a wonderful start to the holiday season!

All my best, Brigitte

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2024 General Election

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NOVEMBER 2024

2024 General Election

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Meet the Candidates Candidate Biographies for the General Election As the December 14, 2024, election approaches, we provided an opportunity for all candidates to submit a biography to be featured in November's newsletter. The submitted biographies are published by district to help inform voters.

We encourage all eligible voters to review the information and make their voices heard at the polls on Election Day. Remember, your vote matters! Make a plan to cast your ballot on December 14, 2024.

Baraga District Boozhoo, my name is Sue Ellen “Suzie” Elmblad. I am 45 years old and have resided on the reservation my whole life, with exception to moving away for a short time in my early 20s. I am happily married to Brian “Jar” Elmblad Jr., we are proud parents of 2 beautiful daughters; Shayla and Shaniya, and I also am a proud daughter of the late Robert

Program Director for our elders of the community. I enjoy talking to our elders, listening to their stories, and gaining knowledge from them. Our Elder Nutrition Program and newly established Ojibwa Land Seniors teams strive to give exceptional services and we are always looking on ways to meet the needs of our older population.

I currently have the privilege of serving on the Assistance Based On Needs (ABON) task force since January 2024, I also am newly appointed the Natural Resource Committee and feel it is important to learn about issues that are facing our tribe and collaborate efforts to give our Natural Resource Department guidance and recommendations of the issues at hand and protect our resources for the future. And most recently, I will be working on the Economic Development task force that is a newly established group made up of creative and forward-thinking individuals. I am excited to join forces with the group and see what we can bring to the table for KBIC. Overall, the most important role that I have is serving our community in my best capacity as one of your trusted council women. It has been an honor, serving my first term as your Baraga Representative, and with the support of the people, I’m seeking to be re-elected on December 14th for my 2nd term. I humbly request for your vote and look forward to working with fellow council members to keep moving forward for a better and stronger KBIC! Chi-Miigwech, Sue Ellen Elmblad KBIC 1986

“Mahone” Carlson and Carol Carlson (Ross). Strong family values have always been a huge part in my up brining and it has shaped me into the person that I am today. Brian and I also are successful business owners of Back Road Organic Supply, operating since November 2017. We continue to establish goals to expand our business and we appreciate all the local support of our small business.

I enjoy working with people. Throughout my experience within the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community, I have approximately 20 years of service in various positions though out our enterprise businesses and tribal government.

Since August of 2020, I am the KBIC Elder Nutrition

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NOVEMBER 2024

Meet the Candidates Boozhoo My name is Larry Denomie III and I’m running for Tribal Council in the Baraga District.

My parents, who unfortunately have both passed, were Lawrence “Oscar” and Ann Denomie. I have seven brothers and three sisters and we were all raised in the family home in the mission near the old tribal center. I have an awesome and talented son, Tyler Denomie, who lives with his husband in Sheboygan, WI. I know our reservation and community because I have lived here my entire 57 years. I believe my work experience and education would provide the qualifications needed to serve our community and our people. I have worked for and served our Tribe for over 35 years which included serving on Tribal Council for 6 years, as our Tribe’s Chief Executive Officer for 11 years, as General Manager of our casinos for over 2 years and various other casino positions for 16 years, as CAP Office Administrator for a short time and I’m currently the Non-gaming Business Accounting Supervisor. I also owned and successfully operated several businesses for just under 10 years. I hold an Associate’s Degree in Business and recently obtained a certification in Cannabis Compliance and Risk Management from Northern Michigan University. I’m currently the Treasurer of the Ojibwa Senior Citizen’s Board and serve as Secretary of the Constitution Committee for our Tribe.

While serving in leadership roles, I had the pleasure of leading a team that worked on our new Marquette Casino project and the renovations of our Baraga Casino. The $40 million projects were completed on time and within budget. I was also responsible for soliciting for internet gaming partners and successfully obtained licensing approvals which resulted in a multi-million-dollar deal with Golden Nugget that continues to provide a valuable revenue stream for our Tribe. The tobacco manufacturing business was another project I assisted with setting up and acquiring licensure for.

Throughout my career I always strived to learn and then share that knowledge to help create success for our Tribe.

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I respectfully ask for your support and would be honored to serve as Tribal Council representative in the Baraga District.

Larry Denomie III

My name is Anthony (Tony) Loonsfoot and. I live in Baraga with my wife, Amber, and our three daughters. I am proud to be a girl dad. I am a Baraga High School graduate with the Class of 2004, where my two oldest daughters now attend in grades 6 and 7, while our youngest is enrolled in KBIC’s Pre-Primary Program.

I have recently Graduated with Honors from Northern Michigan University with a Bachelor's Degree, Majoring in Criminal Justice and with a Wildlife Conservation Law and Policing Minor.

I have served our community since 2006 with the KBIC Tribal Police and am currently in the position of Police/Conservation Sergeant. I have also volunteered as a youth girls softball coach the past few years. I have taken on an instructor role at our Keweenaw Bay Ojibwa Community College, where I am teaching Introduction to Criminal Justice and Tribal Government this semester and will be teaching two classes this upcoming Spring Semester, Introduction to Policing and Criminology.

I have served on the Baraga Area Schools Board from 2020-2024, with my term coming to an end in December, which is why I am now looking for an opportunity to continue serving our community in Tribal Council.

Ever since I was a kid, I was very much into technology. I have always liked the idea of new and I am not afraid of change. I embrace the challenge of figuring out how to do new things and am always willing to learn. I take pride in the things I do and when others are depending on me, it only makes me

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Meet the Candidates want to work harder.

Other qualities about me that I feel are valuable are I am dependable, selfless, I treat others with respect, and I am not afraid to ask questions. I am an optimistic, glass half full person and like to bring positivity to every situation.

For those of you who might not know much about me, I am 46 years old, was raised in Zeba, son of Pat and JoAnne Racette, whom I credit with instilling in me the core values of hard work, honesty, integrity, and openmindedness, which I am proud to say are defining traits of my character.

My educational background includes a diploma from L’Anse High School, Bachelor of Arts degree in Communication from Michigan State University, and a variety of personal enrichment courses from Lansing Community College, University of Phoenix online and Keweenaw Bay Ojibwa Community College.

The most rewarding of my work experience stemmed from my employment with KBOCC, where I was afforded the opportunity to assist students with continuing their education, as well as becoming more connected with our Ojibwe culture and practices. During my time as the Financial Aid Director, I was instrumental in establishing connection with the State of Michigan for KBOCC to become involved with programs like the Tuition Incentive Program (TIP), which help to alleviate some of the financial burden associated with being a student.

Rather than give further details regarding my resume, I’d like to leave you with my thoughts on how I believe life can be compared to a game of billiards (pool), which is one of my favorite pastimes. Like a game of pool, the end result of the

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breaks and rolls can’t always be predicted, and certainly are not always favorable. It takes some critical thinking to decipher the most efficient path to the end goal, especially when things don’t work out as you originally plan, but you can always influence the outcome, as long as you set yourself up for another chance at the table. I’d like to think I am fairly productive when analyzing potential outcomes, both on and off the pool table, and have the ability to make informed, calculated decisions, to help reach goals. Working in a team environment, and having the ability to both give and accept constructive criticism can help oneself, and their team (KBIC), realize their full potential and move forward more productively in the future.

Chi’miigwech for your time and consideration!

Baamaapii

L’Anse District Boozhoo, Mishkawabanogoqu ay, indizhinikaaz miigizi indodem wayquaydung indoonjiba.

My name is Jennifer (Chosa) Misegan and I am eagle clan. I was born and raised on our reservation and am proud to have lived my entire life here.

My grandfather Clarence “Buck” Chosa taught me about the protection of our treaty rights and home territory and my grandmother, Elizabeth “Peg” Madosh, taught me the importance of respect, consideration, love of family and how to take care of each other. My family has instilled a strong work ethic in me as well as strong values. I have been married to my very supportive husband, Duane Misegan, for thirty-three years. We have two

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Meet the Candidates adult children, Jake and Deena. We also have three German Shepherds; Browning, Ryder and Mysti. I hold an Associate’s Degree in Business and I have made working for our Tribal Government my entire career for almost 30 years.

In my previous experience as a 12-year Council member, I have served as the Vice President and the Treasurer. I have been involved in the development of many successful initiatives for our Tribe including the KBIC Tobacco Co., the Senior Assistance Program, the General Welfare Support Program, Motor Vehicle Titling, Constitutional Amendments and others. I am a problem solver and have enjoyed making positive change. Serving our community has been an honor and a privilege and I don’t take that lightly.

My family recently went through a life changing health issue. I can honestly say that I look at things differently than I did in the past. While I have always been willing to work with anyone to advance KBIC, it is time to put petty differences aside and work together for the betterment of OUR Tribe. I believe that we waste too much time and effort on personality conflicts and not enough on the outside forces that are working against our Tribe. The Keweenaw Bay Indian Community is a sovereign nation and we have to use that sovereignty or it will be taken away.

Now is the time to focus on economic diversity beyond traditional sources of income for Tribes, while efficiently and effectively operating the businesses we currently have. I offer experience in making difficult business decisions. I was recently appointed to the Frostbite Board, which is the entity that oversees our cannabis operations. We are working hard to improve both dispensaries and obtain a license for a marijuana grow operation.

I respectfully ask for support in the upcoming General Election. If elected I will work hard for you and produce results for KBIC. Miigwech!

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Chief Judge Violet M. Friisvall Ayres is a tribal sovereigntist, educator, and jurist with twenty-four (24) years of experience serving the Community, first as Associate Judge and then Chief Judge. Violet has resolved hundreds of cases of all types, ranging from criminal, traffic, natural resources, child neglect and dependency, guardianship, conservatorship, child support, child custody, probate, divorce, eviction, contracts, torts and more. The years on the bench has provided Violet the opportunity to create programs and services, and enhance the infrastructure of the Tribal Court to provide a solid foundation for growth, fairness, and stability to the People of the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community. Violet, has a Bachelor of Science in Pre-Law and Political Science and a Master of Public Administration, from Northern Michigan University, and attended the National Judicial College. Violet is Senior Contingent Faculty at Northern Michigan University, where she has taught NAS 310 Tribal Law and Government to hundreds of students in the fall and winter semesters since 2005. Violet has also served as Adjunct Faculty at the Keweenaw Bay Ojibwa Community College from 2008 to 2023, teaching Tribal Government, KBIC History, American Government, Decolonizing Tribal Organizations, and Contemporary Issues in Native America. A lifelong resident of the L’Anse Indian Reservation, Violet and her husband, Jason, raised their two children, Sierra and Austin, in Zeba where her family has lived for generations. A passionate advocate of nation-building, tribal sovereignty, native rights, and a storyteller at heart, she is always willing to share knowledge and welcomes everyone to come visit the Court.

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Harvest Feast Marquette Harvest Community Together

Feast

Brings

On Saturday, October 19, Harvey's Marquette Casino Events Center buzzed with warmth and connection as the community gathered for the annual Marquette Harvest Feast. Immediately following the Tribal Council meeting, the potluck-style event brought together KBIC members and families to share food, joyful moments, and a sense of togetherness.

Miigwech to all who contributed to making this event memorable and to Carrie Ashbrook for organizing it.

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NOVEMBER 2024

Around the Community

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Around the Community

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NOVEMBER 2024

Around the Community

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Waawaashkeshi Camp Waawaashkeshi Camp 2024: Record Participation Inspires Tradition and Treaty Resource Stewardship By: Austin Ayres Saturday November 9th, in the early morning hours Kyle Seppanen, Blake Chosa, and Lyndon Ekdahl prepare to harvest deer. The crisp Fall air settles on asemaa spread across the ground and words whispered, an offering to the manidoo and their off.

Knives, rifles, bright orange attire, and intention to harvest. Today’s hunt is special, it’s a chance to teach, to learn, to reconnect, it’s Waawaashkeshi Camp.

The group is successful with Kyle Seppanen harvesting a buck and doe. A little more asemaa down, the slamming of a tailgate, and the group heads back for the day’s teachings. This year marks the fourth in which Kyle has participated in the hosting of Waawaashkeshi Camp. When asked about his involvement in the camp Kyle had this to say, “This is my 4th year as part of the planning team, it’s an exciting day for the whole community.

There are a lot of people coming every year to learn how to process their own deer. When we started we had around 20 participants, we’ve grown every year. I feel very proud to be able to get out and harvest for my community, even more so getting the chance to show them how to process a deer.

We talked about it for years, the hurdles unexperienced hunters have to jump through, we wanted to be a part of a solution and this camp is just that. Today’s crew is awesome, the amount of experience we all have is exactly what we are offering. Of all the questions we get about it I think we’re doing a great job of answering them. I’m very happy with how camp has turned out every year since we started.”

Back at the Teaching Facility there is a buzz in the air as NRD staff and volunteers set up tables, chairs, incentives, and a warming fire. A breakfast of wild rice porridge with assorted fruits and toppings is prepared and served by NRD’s Wildlife and Habitat Manager Erin Johnston. By nine in the morning participants are arriving eager for the day’s agenda.

A short introduction of NRD Wildlife and Habitat Section staff, Conservation Officer Sergeant Loonsfoot, and teacher Lyndon Ekdahl draws the group together. There is over one hundred years of deer harvesting experience amongst teachers present.

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Lyndon starts the demonstrations at the gutting station. He first identifies several important tools one might need after a successful harvest including knives, sharpeners, rope, and a second set of hands.

The importance of shot placement is emphasized, a bad shot could make twice as much work for the harvester. ‘Gut shots’ and the potential of creating contaminated meat is discussed. After the initial discussions he removes the buck’s genitals and guts. Identification of organs is the next critical task, Lyndon shows attendees the heart and liver, valuable organs to any harvester looking to utilize as much as possible from any hunt. Time is also taken to identify the areas you do not want to ‘hit’ with either bullet or knife including the stomach and digestive tracts.

After the gutting station demonstration Lyndon takes a portion of the group inside the Teaching Facility to the skinning and quartering station. To get the deer hung up for skinning NRD staff use our chain lift, this demonstrates a safe, easy, and costly way to hang a deer. Lyndon discusses other ways to complete the process, from a rope, truck, and tree limb, to keeping it on the ground. Removing the hide begins with a horizontal cut around the knee of the hindquarter of both legs. Another cut is made along the inner thigh of the hindquarter, this cut allows the hunter to ‘open’ the hide up and begin removing it as a whole piece. Once the hide is removed from the hindquarters you can begin the process of ‘pulling’ the hide away from the meat. As you pull the hide down and away you can easily cut it away from the meat. A quick discussion of different techniques for those with intentions of preserving their hides for tanning is had. Once the hide is down around the neck of the hanging deer, Lyndon begins the quartering process.

Beginning by removing the hindquarters, Lyndon demonstrates cutting along the hip joint, he emphasizes using long smooth cuts here instead of short saw-like cuts. After hindquarters he moves to removing the backstraps, a favorite amongst the attendees, questions start flying about who will get the cut. Lyndon shows a long cut along the spine of the deer, he then pulls the meat away from the spine and finishes cutting it loose. This cut is popular amongst harvesters for being the best quality meat. Moving on, he proceeds to the front quarters of the deer. A similar process is repeated for these, cutting around the joint in large smooth cuts. The point is to remove the large parts for easier handling and processing.

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Waawaashkeshi Camp While Lyndon is working up the first deer, Kyle Seppanen and Blake Chosa invite participants to get hands on experience by gutting the second deer harvested that morning. Volunteers are eager to step up, children, young adults, elders, all participate. Children and young adults are quick to get their hands dirty, while the elders provide perspective from their experiences. A lot of bloody hands and bright smiles are seen about. Kyle and Blake take the participants through the entire process following one step behind Lyndon as he moves along with the main group.

Lyndon moves the group to a set of large tables, prepared by NRD staff with knives, cutting boards, and sanitation stations. Here he demonstrates the breakdown of the quartered venison from our first deer. Participants at this station learn how to identify muscle groups, preferences for preparation of specific muscle groups, and ways to preserve their prepared and packaged venison. Many participants step in at this stage, for some it’s their first experience handling venison, for others it’s the hundredth processing. For all it’s a moment to slow down, to enjoy their company, to strengthen their families and communities, and to continue tradition. In this thinking a short demonstration of how to use asemaa for proper offerings is given, some youth have questions about the reality of hunting, and traditional teachings of our relationship to all creation are given.

NRD’s Ecologist Karena Schmidt and Habitat Specialist Jacob Dessellier are busy in the kitchen preparing lunch. Jake brings moose chili with meat from our recent harvests. Karena prepares potato soup with this Fall’s harvest from the garden, she also brings cornbread for the chili. With all that’s going on inside, outside is Blake Chosa preparing moose meat on the grill, it’s been sitting in marinade since the night before. He had this to say about camp, “I look forward to this day every year, my favorite event NRD hosts by far. I see it as an excellent opportunity to teach our new up and coming deer hunters a critical aspect of hunting that is often overlooked, processing the venison. We have another great showing this year, lots of youth in attendance, they all seem excited to get hands on experience and keep learning.” The day slows, reflection on old hunts begins, stories are shared. It is perfect end to the day at camp. With skills gained and a fully belly many participants begin trickling out.

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This year’s camp had a total of 111 participants, our most ever. Attendees were provided a hunter’s orange winter hat, hunter’s orange vest, Michigan Venison: How to field dress, butcher, prepare/cook/preserve booklet, and a $30 gift card to Woodland Firearms and Supply in Baraga.

Participants who remained at camp past the packaging portion are sent home with fresh venison from the mornings harvest.

KBIC NRD hopes that activities and events like Waawaashkeshi Camp inspire community members to engage in decolonizing their diet, maintaining traditions, and taking an active role in managing treaty resources.

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Waawaashkeshi Camp

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NOVEMBER 2024

Around the Community

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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.

NOVEMBER 2024

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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Current Job Postings

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

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NOVEMBER 2024

Around the Community Power toothbrushes include rotating-oscillating or sonic-powered devices. For certain groups, power toothbrushes clean better than manual toothbrushes; these groups include those patients with less manual dexterity or strength, the handicapped and the cognitively impaired, among others.

The dentist and hygienist will customize instructions to any unique conditions and needs for individuals.

And in the future? In development are lightactivated antibacterial treatments. Low-level lasers or LEDs might be incorporated into toothbrushes or in a tray-device. It is theorized that regular use of the light-activated for teeth methods can help reduce plaque buildup and prevent gum disease and cavities.

National Brush Day encourages a healthy smile for all and promotes good tooth-brushing habits. In November, parents are encouraged to make sure their family brushes their teeth for two minutes, twice a day.

We encourage all folks to sing a favorite toothbrushing song that’s at least 2 minutes long while brushing twice a day. Common songs can be adapted, such as “The Wheels On The Bus Go ‘Round and ‘Round” can become “The Bristles On The Brush Go ‘Round And ‘Round!” “So Early In The Morning” can include “this is the way we brush our teeth, brush our teeth, brush our teeth. This is the way we brush our teeth so early in the morning!”

Here are entertaining Brushing videos to help kids meet the 2-minute mark: https://spoti.fi/3r5F5Cr& https://www.youtube.com/watch? v=wCio_xVlgQ0&list=RDQMKBoMOTYoU4&start_radio=1 The American Dental Association recommends a toothbrush that has soft bristles; the ADA recommends replacing your toothbrush every 3–4 months. Replace it more often if bristles are in bad shape or if the toothbrush has been contaminated.

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We hope you will join us in promoting National Brush Day to your own circle of contacts, whether you send an email to your contacts, post on your social media accounts, or even simply put a National Brush Day logo on your website. For more information about National Brush Day and to download educational materials, please visit: https://dentaltradealliance.org/mpage/nationalbrush-day https://9033392.fs1.hubspotusercontentna1.net/hubfs/9033392/files/FLI6466%20v5%20Delta%20Dental%20Brushing%20 and%20Reading%20Chart.pdf https://www.deltadentalmi.com/getmedia/60d5e2 66-4e78-4c06-b312-91da2b9c8d47/Delta-Dental2x2-20-Brushing-and-Reading-Poster.aspx https://9033392.fs1.hubspotusercontentna1.net/hubfs/9033392/files/8.5x11%20Lets%20Tal k%20Teeth%20Coloring%20Book_v3%20with%2 0Manny.pdf https://www.ada.org/resources/research/scienceand-research-institute/ada-seal-ofacceptance/productsearch#sort=%40productname%20ascending&f:@ category=[manual%20toothbrushes]

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Around the Community https://www.ada.org/resources/research/scienceand-research-institute/ada-seal-ofacceptance/productsearch#sort=%40productname%20ascending&f:@ca tegory=[powered%20toothbrushes]

VIDEOS: https://spoti.fi/3r5F5Cr & https://www.youtube.com/watch? v=wCio_xVlgQ0&list=RDQMKBoMOTYoU4&start_radio=1

RESEARCH: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23547487/ https://clinicaltrial.be/en/details/265810 https://www.dentistryiq.com/dentistry/orthodonti cs/article/55138106/clinical-study-exploresefficacy-of-light-activated-therapy-in-adolescentsundergoing-orthodontic-treatment? o_eid=3215F4629590A8X&oly_enc_id=3215F462959 https://med.umn.edu/Biomedical/diversityinclusion/kina-together

Your partner in oral health,

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

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NOVEMBER 2024

Elders

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Elders

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NOVEMBER 2024

Youth KBIC Youth Programs Bring Halloween Fun to Harvey and Baraga The KBIC Youth Programs hosted their annual Halloween parties on October 26 in Harvey and October 27 in Baraga. Attendees enjoyed a festive lunch, Halloween-themed games, pumpkin and face painting, a costume contest, and a goodie bag filled with candy to take home. Chi-Miigwech to the Youth staff and committee for their hard work in planning and hosting these events, as well as to the volunteers who contributed to their success!

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Youth

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NOVEMBER 2024

Sports

Brody Clements, son of Cheryne (LaPointe) Clements, broke the Marquette Senior High School 1600-meter freshman record for the Track & Field team with a time of 4:47.12. To end the season, he represented MSHS at the UP finals on the 3200-meter relay team, where Marquette took home the UP Champion trophy.

Brody led his JV Football team at MSHS to an 8-1 record.

He played WR, QB, and punter for the squad. His highlight game came against Cadillac HS when he scored four touchdowns to lead the team to a 35-7 victory.

Easton Clements started his second season with the Bay College Men’s Basketball team. The Norse are going into the season ranked #14 in the NJCAA Division II polls.

Easton plays as a guard/forward for the team and is studying Criminal Justice.

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Sports

Kaleigha Kalita (Vikings jersey) participated in The Draw 3on-3 tournament at Ishpeming High School on October 27.

The Draw is a random team generator-style tournament in which each athlete is placed on a random team for the entire tournament. From l to r: Kaelyn, Milly, Kaleigha, and Faith took home first place in the 6th grade division.

Breyelle Bowers and Princess Pierre, members of the Baraga/L'Anse cross country co-op team, earned Division 2 Runner-up honors at the UP Finals on Saturday, October 19. The girls are pictured alongside their coach, Rachel Clisch, also KBIC member. Breyelle finished 14th overall, while Princess secured 5th place. Both athletes earned medals for their performances and All-State honors to finish their season.

Daelynn Denomie, Georgia Larson, and Kaleigha Kalita, all from Baraga, with their teammates who participated in the Draw tournament. From l to r: Izibella, Daelynn, Arianna, Georgia, and Kaleigha.

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NOVEMBER 2024

Casino Promotions

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Around the Community

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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NOVEMBER 2024