2022 June Pokégnêk Yathdanawa

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Citizen's Feedback Needed

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Baby Celebration

Back Page

Azhdéyakpigén You Vote!

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Veterans Honored at Annual Golf Event Nearly 200 golfers and volunteers participated in the Veterans recognition dinner and golf outing on May 26-27.

This year’s special guest was Sergeant Major Raquel Painter, who earned the title “Marine” in August 1989. SGM Painter, who is Sioux and Winnebago, retired in 2016 after serving for nearly 27 years. At the time, she was one of 23 females in the Marine Corps to earn the rank of Sergeant Major. After retirement, SGM Painter established a pow wow for veterans in Onslow County, North Carolina.

It was the first area pow wow in 20 years.

The annual golf outing also gives us an opportunity to officially recognize and honor our Ogitchedaw. This year we are distinguishing the experiences of combat veteran, Matt Martin, as he has accomplished some major milestones over the past two years and exemplifies the determination and drive necessary to walk with honor. As a non-commissioned officer in the Marine Corp, he was awarded numerous citations and awards for his outstanding military service. He continues to use that energy and ambition to accomplish success in his civilian life.

Sergeant Major Raquel Painter, Gayle Green, Matt Martin, Dean Orvis

Please turn to page 9

Dowagiac, Michigan 49047 Box 180 • 32487 Moewe Pokégnek Bodéwadmik • Pokagon Band of Potawatomi

Milford, IN Permit No. 2

PAID

PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE

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Chairwoman’s Corner Bozho!

Welcome to our June issue of Pokégnek Yajdanawa which is full of great news and events that kept us very busy in May! From our children to our Elders to our Veterans, May was a very special month.

Congratulations to the 26 preschoolers who completed the Zagbëgon Academy course and earned their diplomas. We’re very proud of each of you!

In other diploma news, Alex Wesaw, Tribal Council’s interim treasurer, recently earned his Ph.D. in City and Regional Planning from The Ohio State University.

I also had the pleasure of being present in Las Vegas when Alex was recognized by the National Center for American Indian Enterprise Development’s 2022 class of Native American 40 Under 40 Award. Please congratulate Alex on his recent accomplishments next time you see him.

Close to 200 golfers and volunteers participated in the Tee Up for Veterans recognition dinner and golf outing on May 26-27. Migwėtth to the planning committee and the volunteers for putting on a great event. Enjoy the photos and story later in this publication.

From golfing to our 2022 Ggaténmamen Gdankobthegnanêk Pow Wow that took place over Memorial Day weekend. It was great to see such a wonderful turnout at our first in-person pow wow since the pandemic. Our pow wows allow us to celebrate our culture and share it with our community. The dancing, the singing, and the wonderful vendors made for a great time. Migwėtth to the planning committee for bringing the pow wow back to life this year, and to all the volunteers and people behind the scenes who worked tirelessly.

With the flurry of activity behind us, I want to remind you of important days ahead of us.

If you haven’t done so already, take a moment to review the Pokagon Band’s Department of Housing Annual Performance Report on the Indian Housing Block Grant. The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) requires that the report be posted so that citizens may have an opportunity to read and comment on it before it is submitted. It’s an opportunity for you to see how these grant funds are being spent. Some of you may want to suggest other ways to spend the funds or note needs that you believe are not being met by the grant. Or you can simply express your approval.

The main purpose is to be transparent on how HUD funds are spent. Once you’ve reviewed the report on the citizens-only section of the Pokagon website (https://citizenservices.pokagon.com/Home/HUD), please email your comments to Resource Developer, Anne Dueweke at Anne.Dueweke@PokagonBand-nsn. gov, by June 13.

Azhdéyakpigén You vote! Our general election will be here before you know it.

I encourage each of you to use your voice and make your vote count. This is your government and your vote truly does matter. In addition to voting for the candidates, the 2022 General Election includes 12 separate proposals. There are six proposals to amend the Pokagon Band’s Constitution and six proposals to amend the Pokagon Band’s Gaming Revenue Allocation Plan. Please pull out your Voter Information Pamphlet that was mailed to you at the end of April for details. Also, watch for additional information coming out over the next few weeks leading up to Election Day.

Election Dates to Know Absentee ballots will be distributed on June 10. This distribution will go to those who have put in their request prior to this date. After this date they will go out as the Election Board receives the requests.

• The deadline to file a request for an absentee ballot by U.S. Mail, Fax or email is July 1 by 4:30 p.m.

• The deadline to file a request for an absentee ballot by Hand Delivery is July 8 by 2:00 p.m.

• The deadline for the Election Board to receive absentee ballots is July 8 by 4:30 p.m.

In-person voting is Saturday, July 9 from 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. at the Community Center.

As always, if you have questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me or any of the Tribal Council. Until my next update, please have a great weekend!

Migwėtth, Rebecca Richards Tribal Chairwoman

Your Pokagon Journey Stories from the Tribal Development Program Have you ever thought about your journey, as it applies to your career, and how it has changed or evolved from that first day of training? Have you ever wanted to learn about someone else’s career path and how they arrived in their current position? Welcome to “Your Pokagon Journey”!

Each month, an eligible Pokagon employee, employed with one of our many entities, will be selected to share their career path, how they’ve grown professionally since day one, what tools they used for advancement, and any suggestions for continued success with our Tribal entities.

This month we spotlight Darcy Davis, Senior Vice President of Human Resources. Darcy joined the Four Winds team in March of 2007 pre-opening.

A graduate from IUSB with two bachelor’s degrees in Business Administration & Management and Advertising & Marketing; Darcy has held various positions from Receiving Manager to General Manager. It is Tribal Development Program’s (TDP) pleasure to present Darcy Davis’ Four Winds Journey.

In October of 2006 I received a packet of job descriptions in the mail for the first wave of positions that were being hired for the opening of Four Winds in New Buffalo. At that time, I was working as the store manager of David’s Bridal. My entire career had been spent in the retail industry and I was ready for a change. I remember calling my parents and telling them that I was going to work for our citizens. My goal was and still is to bring as much to our tribe as possible.

During my time in retail, I spent numerous years working as an HR manager and felt that was where my strengths lied. I applied for several of the HR positions at Four Winds and was offered the employment coordinator position.

I was the 11th employee hired and before starting, I was asked to consider the HR Manager position which I accepted. Shortly after starting, I was promoted to the Director of HR and spent seven years in that role.

During that time, I learned so much, from benefit program development to employee news and events. These were programs that in my past career were corporate driven. I facilitated them but never had the opportunity to create and roll them out. It is exciting to work with such a talented group of people who are all working toward a common goal. The TDP was front and center with Kenneth Antisdel as our first TDP Manager. His collaborative approach encouraged participation from so many TDP participants. Over the years, TDP has added many successful programs and has aided many employees in reaching their career goals.

My professional goals have changed very little over the years. I still find myself asking, “what’s next, what else can we do that will make Four Winds better,” and I still feel like it is the best place on earth. TDP has been there every step of the way. My advice to any employee is to keep it simple and to be patient with yourself. Give yourself permission and time to focus on what matters to you professionally; use the tools that TDP provides, whether that is a unique skillset or a program, make them work to your advantage.

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Mno-Bmadsen Good Path Awards Mno-Bmadsen is accepting nominations for the Good Path Awards! The Good Path Awards were created in 2019 to promote those individuals who positively contribute to the community through leadership, entrepreneurship, and conducting themselves in the manner of the Seven Grandfather Teachings (Humility, Bravery, Honesty, Wisdom, Truth, Respect, Love).

These awards are presented annually during the Potawatomi Economic Gathering (PEG). Award recipients are chosen from nominations submitted

by Pokagon tribal citizens. Mno-Bmadsen is currently accepting nominations in the categories of Lifetime Achievement, Outstanding Leadership, Outstanding Entrepreneurship, and Emerging Leader.

Pokagon citizens are currently invited to submit nominations now through Monday, August 8, 2022. There is an unlimited number of nominations accepted, so citizens may nominate as many different individuals as they think appropriate for each category. For more information on eligibility and to submit nominations for the Mno-Bmadsen Good Path Awards, please visit www.potawatomieconomicgathering.com. Award recipients will be notified this fall and an awards ceremony will take place in December 2022.

Previous Good Path Award recipients include: 2021 Lifetime Achievement – Jerry Campbell Outstanding Leadership – John. M. Pigeon Outstanding Entrepreneurship – Nick Dillingham Emerging Leader – Skyler Alsup 2020 Lifetime Achievement – Majel DeMarsh Outstanding Leadership – Kevin Daugherty Outstanding Entrepreneurship – Jason Wesaw Emerging Leader – Madolyn Wesaw 2019 Lifetime Achievement – Clarence White Outstanding Leadership – John Pigeon Outstanding Entrepreneurship – David Martin Emerging Leader – Marcus Winchester-Jones

Ki gkéndan né Did you know?

Did you know that many states and cities are named after Potawatomi words? A few examples include Zhegagoynak (Chicago, IL, place of wild onions), Wishkosnak (Wisconsin, place of prairie grass), Ndowathoyék (Dowagiac, MI, place of foraging).

Even Mississippi is named after an Algonquin word, the Potawatomi variant is Mshizibé (big river [describing the Mississippi River]).

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The Pokagon Band and its Four Winds Casinos Announce Details for the 2022 Four Winds Invitational Pokagon Band and its Four Winds® Casinos are pleased to announce that the 2022 Four Winds Invitational will be held at South Bend Country Club from Friday, August 12 through Sunday, August 14. The Four Winds Invitational is part of the Epson Tour, which enters its 42nd year of structured competition in 2022 and is the most established women’s qualifying tour in the world as the one “Road to the LPGA.”

“We are very pleased to once again partner with South Bend Country Club for the 11th edition of the Four Winds Invitational,” said Rebecca Richards, Tribal Chairwoman of the Pokagon Band of Potawatomi Indians. “2021 was the first year that the tournament was held at South Bend Country Club and everyone was very impressed with the course and its facilities. Not only did Golf Digest rank South Bend Country Club as the fifth-best private course in Indiana, but it also hosts an annual U.S. Open qualifier.We believe our partnership with South Bend Country Club, along with new tour sponsor Epson, will help make the 2022 Four Winds Invitational our best tournament yet!”

150 volunteers are needed for morning, afternoon, and evening shifts all three days of the tournament. Assistance is also needed for Pro-Am activities on Wednesday, August 10 and Thursday, August 11, as well as the Grapes on the Green event Thursday evening. A variety of roles are available including assisting with scoring duties and serving as building attendants, caddies, cart drivers, driving range attendants, food and beverage servers, marshals and spotters, parking attendants, standard bearers, shuttle drivers, and more.

All selected volunteers must be at least 16 years of age prior to July 30, 2022 and will receive a Four Winds Invitational polo shirt, hat, and a $25 Four Winds Casinos gift card for their services (9+ hours of service is required).

Two meals and beverages will also be provided to volunteers on each day of service.Volunteers are required to pay a $25 fee prior to July 30. As an additional option, volunteers can pay an $85 volunteer fee instead of $25 and receive a single round of golf to South Bend Country Club including a cart, along with their polo shirt, hat and $25 Four Winds Casinos gift card.

For more information and to complete the volunteer application, please visit http://fourwindsinvitational.com/volunteer/.

For questions regarding volunteer opportunities, please contact Gina Hamilton, Four Winds Invitational Volunteer Coordinator at fwivolunteer @southbendcc.com.

The Four Winds Invitational was established in 2012 as part of the Road to the LPGA.The tournament features a field of professional women golfers from around the world. More information is available at: http://fourwindsinvitational.com/.

Michigan Indian Legal Services

F R E E V I R T U A L E S TAT E P L A N N I N G C L I N I C -FORP O KAG O N B AN D O F P O TA WAT O MI I N D I AN S May 19, 2022 & June 9, 2022

Photo credit: Tyler Fuller, South Bend Country Club

“We’d like to thank South Bend Country Club for their efforts as we continue our partnership for the second year,” said Frank Freedman, Chief Operating Officer of Four Winds Casinos.“We’d also like to thank all of the tournament sponsors as well as the LPGA for their support of the Four Winds Invitational over the last ten years. The previous tournaments have been a great success and attracted fans throughout the region.We have offered over $1.2 million in prize money to date and are very excited that this year’s Four Winds Invitational will offer a $200,000 purse.”

Duke Downey, CEO of South Bend Country Club, added, “We are very proud to once again be selected by the Pokagon Band of Potawatomi and its Four Winds Casinos to host the 2022 Four Winds Invitational.We are excited to welcome the future generation of rising LPGA stars and showcase what our award-winning golf course has to offer. I would also like to thank the members of South Bend Country Club for their support of the players during tournament week.”

From 9am - 4pm Michigan Indian Legal Services is offering remote estate planning.

WILLS, POWERS OF ATTORNEY, PATIENT ADVOCATE DESIGNATIONS, FUNERAL REPRESENTATIVES, AND LADY BIRD DEEDS.

MILS is offering digital estate planning clinics on Thursday, 5/19/2022 and Thursday, 6/9/2022 to make creating your estate plan as safe and convenient as possible. These documents can be signed and executed from the comfort of your own home. This Program is open to Tribal Members, Employees, and their family. The guidelines of this program will allow us to cater to a broader group than is typically permitted by MILS’ funders.

This Program is available to those who make up to 500% of the poverty and eligibility guidelines. The threshold starts at $63,800 and is increased by $22,400 for each additional household member. “You will likely qualify, even if you

did not qualify before for other services.”

Additionally, we are open and still offering our services statewide to income-eligible individuals and tribes, advocates for the rights of individuals, which advances systems of justice, and works to preserve Indian families through State and Tribal Courts.

Please call us at (231) 947 - 0122 to scheduled a time for assistance with your estate plan. Clients may also request alternative dates if needed.

Elders Council Fills Vice-Chair Vacancy

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Citizen’s Comments Wanted The Pokagon Band’s Department of Housing is preparing to submit its Annual Performance Report on the Indian Housing Block Grant. The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) requires that the report be posted so that citizens may have an opportunity to read and comment on it before it is submitted.

On Saturday, May 14, Nicole Holloway, Vice-Chair of Pokagon Band Election Board, swore in Trish Williams to fill the vacant Vice-Chair position on the Elders Council. “I’m going to do my best,” Williams said.

“I’m excited that I have the chance to vote and share my ideas.”

With the Vice-Chair position on the Elders Council vacant, and approximately 18 months remaining in the term of office, subsection 15(D) (2) of the Code permits the Elders Council to fill a vacancy on the Elders Council by appointment, with an understanding that the appointment is in an acting capacity only until the next election of the Elders Council.

After a Meet the Candidates event on Saturday, May 7, where candidates shared their qualifications and answered questions, the Elders Council chose to appoint Williams and scheduled her swearing in prior to the Saturday, May 14 Citizen’s meeting.

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Visit https://citizenservices.pokagon.com/Home/HUD to view the report.

Once you’ve reviewed the report, please email your comments to Anne Dueweke, Resource Developer, by June 13, 2022 at Anne.Dueweke@PokagonBand-nsn.gov.

June Moon Description We measure months by the full moon. There are actually 13 full moons in a calendar year, each one having something of significance during that time. When we adapt them to the English calendar, we use 12 moons to fit. Please keep in mind that we use many calendars and variations.

Mskwëmnëké Gizes – Raspberry Picking Moon While nowadays the climate has changed and this may be done in a different month, in southwest Michigan (mskwëmnêk) raspberries were picked during Mskwëmnëké Gizes (Raspberry Picking Moon) May.

mskwëmnëké gizesMskwëmnëké crossword Gizes Crossword 1

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ACRO SS 1 It is hot (weather) 4 Grass 5 Raspberry leaves 6 H/S picks raspberries 9 Ball 10 It is warm (weather)

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D OW N 2 Raspberries 3 Frog 7 Raspberry 8 Hat

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[1] it is hot (weather)

[2] raspberries

[5] raspberry leaves

[7] raspberry

[4] grass

[6] h/s picks raspberries

[3] frog [8] hat

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Pokagon Band Gaming Commission Department of Internal Audit: Ensuring the Protection of Tribal Assets Prepared by: David Vialpando, PBGC Executive Director, David.Vialpando@PokagonBand-nsn.gov The Pokagon Band Gaming Commission (PBGC), as the independent Tribal government agency responsible for regulatory oversight of the Band’s casino gaming enterprises, the Four Winds Casinos (FWC), empowers the PBGC Department of Internal Audit (IA) to ensure the protection of Tribal assets.

IA employs a cadre of highly skilled and trained professionals, all of whom are members of the Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA) and the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners (ACFE), which require auditors to apply and uphold the basic auditing principles of Integrity, Objectivity, Confidentiality, Independence, and Skills & Competence. Department of IA auditors are also members of the Association of Certified Financial Crime Specialists (ACFCS).

IA auditors assess the compliance by the Four Winds Casino with approved internal control procedures and conduct independent risk-based audits of all gaming and operational areas within the Casino which include, but are not limited to, gaming machines, table games, drop & count cage, credit, card games (poker), iGaming, sports wagering, complimentary services, information technology, marketing, purchasing, food & beverage, and accounts payable.

At the beginning of every year, the IA Director presents an audit plan for the upcoming year for consideration of approval by the PBGC Gaming Commissioners. The audit plan details every review to be conducted by IA auditors over the course of the year and hours are budgeted for each review based on past audits. The IA Department averages over 10,000 hours per year on these regulatory and operational compliance audits. Anomalies and departures from established internal controls discovered by IA auditors are referred to as findings. All findings must be addressed by Casino management and a follow-up audit conducted to verify that Casino management have taken steps to ensure regulatory compliance. As part of the audit, IA will also provide recommendations to Casino management that either add internal controls or strengthen current internal controls in order to minimize the risk of fraudulent activities while ensuring the integrity of gaming activities.

In January 2019, the Pokagon Band was awarded a Certificate of Self-Regulation by the National Indian Gaming Commission (NIGC). The Pokagon Band is one of only six Tribal Nations in the United States to have achieved this highly coveted and extremely complex achievement. PBGC staff, including IA auditors,

worked with the NIGC for over a year demonstrating the Commission’s detailed regulatory oversight of Casino operations for the three-year period preceding the date of petition. As a result of the Band’s self-regulation status, the PBGC IA Department is responsible for conducting the annual internal control audits normally conducted by the NIGC, at substantial monetary savings to the Band.

In addition to NIGC-required audits, IA auditors conduct Bank Secrecy Act (Title 31) compliance reviews and anti-money laundering audits. The Department of Internal Audit ensures that corrective action is implemented to address compliance issues and areas of potential vulnerability. During every audit, highly skilled IA auditors use their training and professional knowledge to detect and report weaknesses in Internal Controls, which may expose Tribal assets to theft and misappropriation. IA auditors are continually developing their skills through training provided by professional internal audit associations and networking with their colleagues to evaluate industry best practices.

The PBGC Department of Internal Audit is also responsible for the ongoing monitoring and audit of the new construction taking place at the Four Winds Casino in South Bend, Indiana. The assigned IA auditor works closely with the construction management company, Square One, to ensure that all construction costs remain within the parameters approved by the Pokagon Gaming Authority. The auditor assigned to the South Bend construction project has received specialized training in construction fraud and auditing strategies specific to construction projects and she has been consistently complimented for the depth of detail she dedicates to performing these audits.

IA auditors frequently utilize their penchant for examining fine detail and comprehensive financial analysis to assist other PBGC staff, including Gaming Investigators and Compliance & Enforcement Gaming Inspectors.

PBGC Department of Internal Audit personnel are highly skilled gaming regulators possessing the acumen to examine complex Casino processes, financial transactions, and detailed historical records to ensure the integrity of gaming and the protection of Tribal assets. If you remember 1920’s gangster history, it wasn’t law enforcement that Alphonse Capone feared the most, it was the auditors.

What’s that Non-Native Species?

Spongy Moth (Lymantria dispar)

The Spongy moth (Lymantria dispar) received a name change in late 2021 due to the name Gypsy moth containing a derogatory term for Romani peoples.

The spongy moth is an insect that is native to Europe and Asia and was first found in the United States in Boston around 1869 after escaping captivity.

The spongy moth is highly known for its defoliation of oak trees. If defoliation on a tree is too heavy, the tree can be more susceptible to other stressors, resulting in the death of the tree. Spongy moth defoliation tends to happen in outbreaks, meaning that there may be multiple years with little damage and few moths, but then there are years where the moth numbers are very high, resulting in high defoliation. In 2020 there was a severe outbreak, with over 950,000 acres of oak defoliated in Michigan. The female spongy moth is more easily identified than the male because the male is nondescript, harder to find, and spends most of its adult life flying around to find females. Spongy moth females are a light cream color with minimal striping and are found on the bark of trees because they are too heavy to fly after emerging from their pupa in July and August. The females lay a mass of buff to rust colored spongy eggs which overwinter on the bark of the tree. The eggs hatch from early spring to mid-May when the larvae begin to grow to large caterpillars. The caterpillars can be identified by five sets of blue dots and six sets of red dots on their back as well as a yellow head with black eyespots. There are predators that help, including parasitic and predatory wasps, flies, beetles, ants, and spiders, as well as being fed upon by multiple bird species and mammals. Additional biological control efforts involve annual aerial spray by the USDA Forest Service as well as mechanical removal of egg masses in the late fall and removal of adults if you find them on your trees. Individual homeowners can purchase the biological control agent (Bacillus thuringiensis var. kurstaki) at local big box stores and spray in late May to help reduce caterpillar populations and defoliation of oaks in your yard. If you see dead caterpillars, please leave them be or place them near the base of an oak tree to help reduce the caterpillar population.

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What’s that Edible Plant?

Catnip (Nepeta cataria) Catnip (Nepeta cataria) or catmint, is a naturalized perennial plant that can be found across much of the United States. Catnip isn’t just a plant from which your cat can derive benefits, humans can also utilize this edible plant. Catnip is a member of the mint family and has velvety haired leaves with toothed edges. The plant’s stem is square, while the leaves grow opposite on the stem and have a mint smell when picked or crushed.

Once established, catnip will continue to grow and spread from the location it was planted. Plant parts that are used are all parts of the plant that grow above the ground including leaves, stems, and flowers. The best time to pick plant parts is before, or just as, the flowers are beginning to bloom. Young catnip leaves and shoots are good eaten raw, as in salads. There are many uses in teas, creams, and tinctures. Catnip is thought to help with digestive issues, stress, and upset stomach. Catnip oil has been used in aromatherapy and as a natural insect repellent. As with any new edible or medicinal, please ensure that you have a positive identification before use and utilize in small quantities at first to make sure there are no allergic or adverse reactions

department of communications

FREE PROFESSIONAL PHOTO-SHOOT

OF YOU WEARING YOUR REGALIA!

DURING THE MONTH OF JUNE MONDAY-WEDNESDAY • 9 A.M. - 3:30 P.M.

Mno-yathmowas Fun fact mskwëmnëké gizes (raspberry picking moon) Ki gkéndan né? Did you know that mskwëmnëbgon (raspberry leaves) can take care of digestive problems such as stomach upset and zhapkawsëwen (diarrhea)? The high amount of tannins found in raspberry leaves provides an astringent effect on the walls of the digestive tract. This helps ease the constant irritation caused by your zhapkawsëwen.

The Communications Department is moving forward to display the artistry, culture, and history of the people.

Receive a framed photo and 5 digital photographs sent via email. Photos will be used for Pokagon promotional material. This is for us to celebrate our art, culture, and history!

APPOINTMENTS ARE REQUIRED Please contact Jessica Hightower at (269) 462-4298 or Jessica.Hightower @PokagonBand-nsn.gov gyankobjegémen

stay connected

pokagon.com

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A Zagbëgon Graduation Zagbëgon means sprouts in Potawatomi. Our Zagbëgon have grown from seeds and now have their own roots. Zagbëgon are peeking out from gokmeskinan (our grandmother earth) so they can look about their world and begin to form their identities and grow stronger with all of creation.

It was a wonderful year at Zagbëgon Academy, and last week, 26 children graduated after a year of learning, fun, and friendships. Miss Dani and Miss Liz nourished the minds, bodies, and spirits of their class that called Mtegwagké (Woodlands Room) home for the school year. Ms. Tammy and Mrs. Mandy spent the school year in Peshkwa (Meadow Room) where they provided a safe and nurturing environment for all their sprouts. Mrs. Kellie and Mrs. Carrie in Zibé (River Room), enjoyed stretching the minds and imaginations of their students who went outside every day, rain or shine.

The teachers, along with the rest of the team of Elizabeth Rinehart, site manager, Autumn Carlson, early childhood education associate, Elizabeth Milliken, center assistant, Donald Sumners, elder cultural associate, Gerald Inman, cook, Cecil Wilson, Jr., bus driver/class aid, and Cheri Sullivan, bus driver/class aid worked hard to provide programming that promoted early literacy, family strengthening, school readiness, and quality education.

Congratulations to the students, teachers, and staff!

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Veterans Honored in Annual Golf Outing, continued from page one We also chose to recognize Gayle Green as one of our elder veterans who has endured several hardships over the past two years but continues to stay committed to the Pokagon Band veterans and find the courage to do what is right.

We all journey down our own path. Sometimes this path leads us to do extraordinary things. We thank these two individuals for their service to our country and Tribal community. When we answer the call to serve, we do not know what the road ahead holds for us, but these two were willing to do what was asked and needed to ensure freedom. As the saying so amply states: A veteran – whether active duty, retired, national guard, or reserve – is someone who, at one point in their life, wrote a blank check made payable to “The United States of America” for an amount of “up to and including” their life. Thank you, Matt and Gayle, for your service and continued commitment to our country, tribe, and fellow veterans.

Meet Nëmosh (dog). The Pokagon Band of Potawatomi’s Four Winds® Casinos have partnered with United States Veterans Service Dogs (USVSD) to help raise a puppy to become a future service dog for a veteran.

At the Veteran's Recognition Dinner on Thursday, Chairwoman Richards received a Chairmans Leadership Award presented

by Ernie Stevens, Jr., chairman of and national spokesperson for the Indian Gaming Association.

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New Temporary Lodging Opens On Saturday, May 14, citizens, Tribal Council members, local dignitaries, and staff gathered for a ribbon cutting ceremony and open house at Byéwgëmëk – A Place You Come to Stay.

This new facility will fill a need for Pokagon Citizens and family members that need temporary lodging. Byéwgëmëk is located at 58155 M-51 in Dowagiac.

For information, contact Megan Rick, Rental Property Manager at Megan.Rick @PokagonBand-nsn.gov or by phone at (269) 462-4251.

phs + education NINTH ANNUAL

a Healthy healthy

STep with step

Ducation e

Saturday, August 20 10 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. at PHS

The Department of Education and Pokagon Health Services invite you to A Healthy Step with Education.

PHS Wellness is hosting a Minor Mudder following A Healthy Step at 1 p.m.

Boxed lunches served 11:30 a.m. 12:30 p.m.

This day will be filled with health education, screenings, PreK–12 program registration, and activities. This event is for the whole family, birth to elder. It is open to all tribal citizens, employees, and their families.

Please come and join in the fun.

Questions? Contact Elizabeth Leffler at (269) 462-4406 or Susan Doyle at (269) 782-0887.

gyankobjegémen

stay connected

pokagon.com

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Importance of Exercise Exercise and physical activity are great ways to feel better, boost your health, and have fun. For most healthy adults, it is recommended that individuals get at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity per week. The guideline suggests spreading the exercise throughout the week. Even a small amount will add up throughout the day and increase health benefits. Strength training exercises for all major muscle groups at least two times per week are also recommended. Children and adolescents also need exercise in their daily lives. It can help with childhood obesity, elevations in self-esteem, improved concentration, reductions in depressive symptoms, and improvements in sleep.

Recommended Levels for Preschool-Aged Children

• Preschool-aged children (ages 3 through 5 years) should be physically active for growth and development throughout the day.

• Adult caregivers should encourage preschool-aged children to be active when they play.

Recommended Levels for School-Aged Children and Adolescents • Children and adolescents ages 6 through 17 years should do 60 minutes (1 hour) or more of moderate-to-vigorous intensity physical activity each day, including daily aerobic – and activities that strengthen bones (like running or jumping) – 3 days each week and that build muscles (like climbing or doing push-ups) – 3 days each week.

Exercise helps prevent and improve several health problems, including high blood pressure, diabetes, and arthritis. Research on depression, anxiety, and exercise shows that exercise's psychological and physical benefits can also help improve mood and reduce anxiety. Exercise may also keep depression and anxiety from coming back once you're feeling better. It can alleviate depression and anxiety by releasing feel-good endorphins, natural cannabis-like brain chemicals, and other natural brain chemicals that enhance your sense of well-being. It can also take your mind off worries, so you can get away from the cycle of negative thoughts that feed depression and anxiety. It has many psychological and emotional benefits, such as gaining confidence, getting more social interaction, and learning to cope with stressors healthily.

Diabetes is an independent risk factor for low muscular strength and accelerated decline in muscle strength and functional status. The health benefits of resistance training for all adults include improvements in muscle mass, body composition, strength, physical function, mental health, bone mineral density, insulin sensitivity, blood pressure, lipid profiles, and cardiovascular health. The effect of resistance exercise on glycemic control in type 1 diabetes is unclear.

However, resistance exercise can assist in minimizing the risk of exercise-induced hypoglycemia in type 1 diabetes. When resistance and aerobic exercise are undertaken in one exercise session, performing resistance exercise first results in less hypoglycemia than when aerobic exercise is performed first. Resistance training benefits for individuals with type 2 diabetes include improvements in glycemic control, insulin resistance, fat mass, blood pressure, strength, and lean body mass.

We are meant to move, and many of our body's systems work better when we are consistently physically active. We are all managing additional stress related to the growth of the COVID 19 pandemic and its potential to threaten our health, our families, and our communities. Please consider using physical activity for you and your family as a strategy to maintain health during this stressful period.

center of history & culture

Although many things feel beyond our control right now, we do have the ability to be creative and build physical activity and exercise into each of our days. Many companies are offering free use of their online platforms that may help to identify a variety of in-home activities to help make exercise more enjoyable during this critical period. Make sure you consult a physician before starting a new exercise program.

Traditional medicine services Available

Traditional medicine services are now being overseen by the Center of History & Culture.

If you are interested in seeing Keith Smith for traditional medicine services, he will be available one Friday and Saturday, per month to see tribal Citizens by appointment only. Appointments are taking place in the Government Annex, 58653 Sink Road, Dowagiac, MI.

June 10 & 11 All tribal citizens are welcome to schedule an appointment, whether it will be your first time or you are returning for a follow up.

Please contact Nicole Holloway at the Center of History & Culture at (269) 783-3513 (desk), (269) 783-6131 (cell) or Nicole.Holloway@ PokagonBand-nsn.gov, to schedule an appointment or to inquire about the services provided.

Mayo Clinic CDC umich.edu By: Angelina Herman

Elders Stipend Soon to be 55 years old?

Please submit an Elders Stipend Registration form for benefits to Elders Hall.

The form is available on the Pokagon Band website, search “Elders Services” on www.PokagonBand-nsn.gov.

Submit the completed documents by mail, fax, or email.

Mail: Pokagon Band of Potawatomi Attn: Elders Hall P.O. Box 180, Dowagiac, MI 49047 Fax: (269) 782-1696

**We honor patient confidentiality **Due to COVID-19 and for the health and safety of our Citizens and staff, a health questionnaire and body temperature of less than 100 degrees F will be required before each scheduled appointment.

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Email: Social.Services@PokagonBand-nsn.gov The Elder Specialist at Elders Hall can answer questions, call (269) 782-0765 or (800) 859 2717.

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Community Outreach alongside DNR and Education department invite you to honor the newest members of our tribe as part of

Our Annual Virtual Baby Celebration!

Honoring all Pokagon babies born between January 2021 and April 30, 2022

Not Pictured Eva Gillespie 12/26/2021

Leo Balk 2/16/2022 Waylon Burandt 7/6/2021

Colt Cockey 3/2/2022 Ellie Mae Capelle 10/16/2021

Novalee Frigo 9/19/2021

Havyn Glynn 3/11/2022 Jenica Gipson 10/28/2021

Spencer Goodrich 7/27/2021

Pokegnek Yathdanawa

Maxine Kimball 12/24/2021

Brooke Hausmann 10/13/2021

Henry Grigonis 9/26/2022

Hudson Lanier 7/18/2021

Khanani Knight 10/1/2021

Maya Littlecole

Harvey Krueger 10/1/2021

Evelyn Knight 5/4/2021

1/14/2022

Kyper Morseau 2/27/2021

Zion Mkumbukwa 12/21/2021

Ryan Orvis 4/26/2021

Christopher MorsawDean 9/17/2021

Daxton Marunycz 3/15/2022

Emily Smith 4/29/2022

Leroy Rader 5/12/2021

Ziva Rosie Smith-Cluff 4/13/2022

Jaxon Roach 9/3/2021

Micah Price Jr 4/21/2021

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Remington Johnson 6/29/2021

Hendricksom Hatala 3/14/2022

Maliya Wilson 7/26/2021

Giovanni Taylor 5/2/2021 Aurora Spaudling 5/20/2021

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Gianna RodriquezTostando 9/29/2021

Novalynn Zimmerman 1/2/2022

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Understanding Vitamin A Vitamin A helps with a variety of functions to keep our bodies healthy, such as:

• Allowing your eyes to adjust to the different levels of light and dark • Supporting cell growth, especially of our kidneys, lungs, heart, and other organs • Boosting the immune system to help us fight infection • Functioning as an antioxidant to help reduce cellular damage in the body How Much Vitamin A Do You Need?

The amount of Vitamin A you need each day is measured in micrograms (mcg) and is frequently listed with the letters RAE following it. This stands for retinol activity equivalent. The RAE is the total amount of Vitamin A the body can use (from any source).

The two most common types of Vitamin A are preformed Vitamin A and beta-carotene, which the body must convert into an active form of Vitamin A before it can be used.

How Much Vitamin A is Too Much?

Vitamin A is a fat-soluble vitamin, which means that when a person consumes more than the body needs, it is stored in the fat cells and liver. When large amounts of preformed Vitamin A are consumed (typically from supplements), it may result in dizziness, nausea, headaches, joint pain, coma, and even death.

High doses of beta-carotene supplements have been linked to risk of lung cancer and heart disease in those who smoke or have a history of smoking. When large amounts of food sources of beta-carotene are eaten, the skin may develop a yellow-orange color, but this is reversible.

Teaching Lodge Rebuild Migwėtth to those who helped us rebuild our Génwawgëmëk last month.

The lodge will be used by community members, Zagbëgon students, seasonal programs, and youth programs.

pokégnek bodéwadmik center of history & culture

Always check with a health-care provider before taking any type of supplement.

Recommended daily amounts of Vitamin A: Infants 7 to 12 months old: 500 mcg RAE Toddlers 1 to 3 years old: 300 mcg RAE Children 4 to 8 years-old: 400 mcg RAE Adolescents 9 to 13 years-old: 600 mcg RAE Males 14 years-old and older: 900 mcg RAE Females 14 years old and older: 700 mcg RAE Females 14 to 18 years-old during pregnancy: 750 mcg RAE Females 14 to 18 years-old while breastfeeding: 1,200 mcg RAE Females 19 years-old and older during pregnancy: 770 mcg RAE Females 19 years-old and older while breastfeeding: 1,300 mcg RAE Tips for Getting More Vitamin A Preformed Vitamin A is found in products that come from animals, such as milk, beef, or eggs. Beta-carotene is found in plant-based foods, such as vegetables and fruit.

Here are just a few suggestions to help meet your Vitamin A needs with food:

• • • •

Add a side of cantaloupe at breakfast with low-fat yogurt or cottage cheese.

Top your scrambled eggs with low-fat cheese and tomato slices.

Pack some baby carrots for a lunch-time side.

Use spinach as the base for your salad at dinner.

Kë Bébisyakémen Lets Bead!

June 26 12 p.m. to 3 p.m.

Center of History and Culture 59291 Indian Lake Road, Dowagiac Join the Center of History and Culture in a beading circle! Bring what you are working on and work alongside experienced and novice beaders. There will be an instructor on-site to assist beginners with easy projects. If you are interested in learning something new or finishing a project you already started, this is the class for you! Limited supplies will be available.

Tribal Citizens and tribal parents only. Light lunch will be provided, feel free to bring a dish to pass. If you would like a basic start-up supply list please contact Nicole Holloway.

The option to join virtually via Microsoft Teams is available. Supplies will not be provided to those joining virtually.

Please RSVP by emailing Nicole.Holloway@PokagonBand-nsn.gov, text, or call at (269) 783-3513

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Pokagon Band Elders May 1, 2022 through October 31, 2022

LAWN MOWING REIMBURSEMENT APPLICATION FORM Name: ________________________ Address: ____________________________________ City: ________________________State& Zip Code: ______________________________ Phone No: ____________________ Tribal ID: _________________

THIRD-PARTY LAWN MOWING SERVICE PROVIDER INFORMATION Name: _______________________ Address: _____________________________________ City: _________________________ State & Zip Code: _____________________________ Phone No: ____________________ Business Name: ____________________

Pokagon Band Elders anywhere in the U.S may be reimbursed for lawn mowing services provided to their residence by third-party service providers. The maximum reimbursement an Elder may receive over the entire season is $200 per household.

You are responsible for finding your own third-party mowing service provider. You will not be reimbursed if you are the person who mowed your own lawn. Except for those residing at Phase ll (Rent to Own), those residing at Pokagon Band Housing are ineligible for reimbursement, as the Pokagon Band already provides lawncare services.

To be eligible for reimbursement, you must complete and return this application along with invoice(s) or receipt(s) from the third-party service provider. We may contact your service provider for verification.

Incomplete applications, applications without invoice(s)/receipt(s), and applications received after November 15, 2022, will not be processed. Reimbursements will be paid until annual budget funds are exhausted.

Applicant must be age 55+ at the date(s) of service.

The completed application with accompanying invoice(s)/receipt(s) must be returned to: Elders Council/P.O. Box 180 Dowagiac Michigan 49047 Any questions call Elders Hall, (800)-859-2717 or (269)-782-0765 By my signing below, I certify that all information provided on this application is true/correct.

Signature of Applicant: _________________________________ Date: __________________ Print Name: _________________________________ Created 4/19/2022

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Friends, Fun, & Frybread On May 19, Zagbëgon invited their child’s family to come and join them for a family picnic! There were field day games, a giveaway of picnic blankets and books, and of course food!

We read the story Frybread, by Kevin Noble Maillard, a story of how frybread brings family together and then we enjoyed some real frybread!

Guidelines for Pokégnêk Yathdanawa Submissions Enrolled citizens of the Pokagon Band are encouraged to submit original letters, stories, pictures, poetry, and announcements for publication in Pokégnêk Yathdanawa. Submissions shall be the views and product of the submitting member. Submissions written by or to a thirdparty, such as the governor or a congressman, and copied to Pokégnêk Yathdanawa are not original.

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Anonymous or “name withheld” submissions will not be published. Members shall include their tribal enrollment number, full name, and mailing address with all newsletter submissions. Tribal enrollment number and mailing address will be used for verification purposes and will not be published, unless member specifically requests to have it published.

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Not all submissions are guaranteed publication upon submission. Newsletter staff reserves the right to refuse submissions based on the following criteria;

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Newsletter staff will contact members should any reason arise that may delay or prevent posting of newsletter submissions. To ensure timely communication with members regarding their newsletter submissions, members may choose to provide additional contact information such as a phone number or e-mail address. Phone numbers, e-mail addresses, and other provided contact information will not be published, unless member specifically requests to have it published.

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• False, misleading, or defamatory; • Discriminatory, sexist, racist, demeaning, insulting, or otherwise offensive to another; • Threatening, harassing, intimidating, or otherwise may tend to produce fear; • Profane, obscene, pornographic, indecent, or patently offensive to the average user; • Disruptive to the office, undermining of the Band’s or a supervisor’s authority, or impairing of working relationships; and • Absolutely no political campaigning is allowed.

Please email submissions to Pokagon.Newsletter@PokagonBand-nsn.gov.

Roasted Peppers Turkey Sandwich

Mixed Vegetables

Italian Beef Sandwich Vegetable Soup

Green Beans

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28 Baked Chicken

Brussels Sprouts

Veggie Tray

Black Bean Medley

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The Business Meeting and Social Lunch will be held at the Community Center. Please do not arrive before 9:30 a.m. for the Business Meeting.

Please do not arrive before 10:30 a.m. for the Social Lunch.

Fruit Bowl

Breakfast Wrap

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Veggie Tray

Chicken Wrap

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Mixed Vegetables

Stuffed Green Peppers

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Salad

Turkey Wrap

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Smokey Applewood Salmon

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Closed in Observance of Juneteenth

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Snacks/ Desert

Fruit Bowl

Macaroni Salad

Baked Chips

Artisan Mac and Cheese

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Ham Sandwich

BBQ Pulled Pork

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Tacos with Black Beans

9 BUSINESS MEETING

Fruit Bowl/Desert

Veggie Tray

Chicken Patty Sandwich

Mixed Vegetables

French Style Green Beans

Bean Soup

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Asparagus

Salisbury Steak

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Baked Chips

Quinoa Baked Beans

Sloppy Joes

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THURSDAY

Salmon Patties

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WEDNESDAY

Tortilla Crusted Tilapia

Beef and Noodles

Chipotle Lime Tilapia

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Black Bean Medley

Fruit Bowl

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Italian Rustic Cod

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Please call the day before if you are not a regular attendee for meals (269) 782-0765 meals subject to change. Meal service begins at 12:00 p.m.

TUESDAY

Chicken & Wild Rice Soup

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Tribal Council June Calendar of Events

Stay connected. Check PokagonBand-nsn.gov for the latest information.

Join all meetings virtually via Microsoft Teams.

6 Tribal Council Special Session, Administration, 10 a.m.

7 Gaming Authority, New Buffalo, 10 a.m.

11 Tribal Citizen Saturday Meeting, Community Center, 10 a.m.

13 Tribal Council Special Session, Administration, 10 a.m.

14 Gaming Authority, New Buffalo, 10 a.m.

20 Pokagon Government Offices Closed in Observance of Juneteenth 21 Gaming Authority, New Buffalo, 10 a.m.

27 Tribal Council Special Session, Administration, 10 a.m.

28 Gaming Authority, New Buffalo, 10 a.m.

Tribal Council July Calendar of Events

Stay connected. Check PokagonBand-nsn.gov for the latest information.

Join all meetings virtually via Microsoft Teams.

4 Pokagon Government Offices Closed in Independence Day 5 Gaming Authority, New Buffalo, 10 a.m.

9 Tribal Election Day 11 Tribal Council Special Session, Administration, 10 a.m.

12 Gaming Authority, New Buffalo, 10 a.m.

18 Tribal Council Special Session, Administration, 10 a.m.

19 Gaming Authority, New Buffalo, 10 a.m.

25 Tribal Council Special Session, Administration, 10 a.m.

26 Gaming Authority, New Buffalo, 10 a.m.

Per Capita News The Enrollment Office needs the following individuals to update their addresses. Please contact the Enrollment Office at (269) 782-1763 or the Finance Department at (269) 462-4209.

NAME

MONTHLY PER CAP

Scott Brewer

X

Brett Gibson

X

Larry Pierce

X

Bradly Marunycz

X

Kaylie Hoge

X

Shane Rummage

X

Angel Morseau

X

Ethan Morris

X

Julius Rummage

X

Elizabeth Paul-Kilburn

X

Albert McGrath

X

Timothy Heffington

X

You can update your address on the PokagonBand-nsn.gov website under Citizens > Enrollment or phone (269) 782 -1763 for an address form by mail.

Per Capita Important Dates

Elders Council June Calendar of Events Stay connected. Check PokagonBand-nsn.gov for the latest information.

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Business Meeting, Administration, Call (586) 250-2691, ID 905 140 283#, 10 a.m.

6 Honoring, Healing and Remembering at Mt. Pleasant, Indian Boarding School Event, Watch for Details 8 Meeting, Administration, Call (586) 250-2691, ID 113 468 803#, 10 a.m.

16 Elders Social, Community Center, 11 a.m.

22 Meeting, Administration, Call (586) 250-2691, ID 786 728 529#, 10 a.m.

DEADLINE TO RECEIVE CHANGES/UPDATES/ ADDITIONS

CHECKS MAILED OUT ON

CHECK DATE DIRECT DEPOSITS IN ACCOUNTS

Wednesday, June 15

Wednesday, June 29

Thursday, June 30

Friday, July 15

Thursday, July 28

Friday, July 29

Monday, August 15

Tuesday, August 30

Wednesday, August 31

Thursday, September 15

Thursday, September 29

Friday, September 30

Friday, October 14

Friday, October 28

Monday, October 31

Monday, November 14

Tuesday, November 22

Wednesday, November 23

Thursday, December 15

Thursday, December 29

Friday, December 30

Open Positions Available The following open positions are still available and listed in alphabetical order.

Please refer to the Pokagon website or the Legislative Edition to read the position descriptions, qualifications and details on how to apply.

• Curriculum Committee

• Health Care Advisory Board

• Pokagon Band Land Use Board

• Mno-Bmadsen Board Director

• Ethics Board

• Pokagon Rights Board

• Food Sovereignty Committee

• Salary Commission

• Ggaténmamen Gdankobthegnanêk Pow Wow Committee

• Tribal Art Committee

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Tribal Council Directory (888) 376-9988 toll free or (269) 782-6323 office CHAIRWOMAN

MEMBER AT LARGE

MEMBER AT LARGE

Rebecca Richards (269) 519-0150 Rebecca.Richards@PokagonBand-nsn.gov

Brandon Rapp (269) 519-0334 Brandon.Rapp@PokagonBand-nsn.gov

Mark Topash (269) 519-6200 Mark.Topash@PokagonBand-nsn.gov

VICE CHAIR

MEMBER AT LARGE

ELDERS REPRESENTATIVE

Andrew Bennett (269) 479-6224 Andrew.Bennett@PokagonBand-nsn.gov

Anita Morales (269) 479-6285 Anita.Morales@PokagonBand-nsn.gov

Barbara Ann Warren (269) 519-6058 Barbara.Warren@PokagonBand-nsn.gov

INTERIM TREASURER

MEMBER AT LARGE

EXECUTIVE SECRETARY

Mark Parrish (269) 479-6283 Mark.Parrish@PokagonBand-nsn.gov

Melissa Rodriguez (269) 462-4203 desk (269) 591-9521 cell Melissa.Rodriguez@PokagonBand-nsn.gov

Alex Wesaw (269) 462-1170 Alex.Wesaw@PokagonBand-nsn.gov SECRETARY

MEMBER AT LARGE

Sam Morseau (269) 462-1830 Sam.Morseau@PokagonBand-nsn.gov

Steve Winchester (269) 591-0119 Steve.Winchester@PokagonBand-nsn.gov

Elders Council Directory Elders Hall (800) 859-2717 toll free or (269) 782-0765 office CHAIR

SECRETARY

MEMBER AT LARGE

Judy Winchester (269) 462-1578 Judy.Winchester@PokagonBand-nsn.gov

Judy Augusta (269) 783-6304 Judy.Augusta@PokagonBand-nsn.gov

Cathy Ford (269) 783-9380 Cathy.Ford@PokagonBand-nsn.gov

VICE CHAIR

TREASURER

Trish Williams (574) 208-8735 Trish.Williams@PokagonBand-nsn.gov

Tom Wilson (269) 462-1004 Tom.Wilson@PokagonBand-nsn.gov

Directory of Services ADMINISTRATION

ELDERS PROGRAM

58620 Sink Road Dowagiac, Michigan 49047 (269) 782-8998 office (888) 281-1111 toll free

53237 Townhall Road (269) 782-0765 office (800) 859-2717 toll free (269) 782-1696 fax

CENTER OF HISTORY & CULTURE

ELECTIONS

HOUSING & COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT

57824 East Pokagon Trail (269) 783-0443 office (269) 783-0452 fax

58620 Sink Road (269) 782-8998 office (800) 517-0777 toll free (269) 782-4295 fax

HUMAN RESOURCES

SOUTH BEND AREA OFFICE

59291 Indian Lake Road (269) 462-4325

58620 Sink Road (269) 782-9475 office (888) 782-9475 toll free

58620 Sink Road (269) 782-8998 office (269) 782-4253 fax

COMMODITIES

ENROLLMENT

(269) 782-3372 office (888) 281-1111 toll free (269) 782-7814 fax

INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

58620 Sink Road (269) 782-1763 office (269) 782-1964 fax

COMMUNICATIONS

ĖTHË BODWÉWADMIMWAT

58620 Sink Road (269) 782-8998 office (800) 517-0777 toll free (269) 782-6882 fax

58620 Sink Road (269) 782-8998 COMPLIANCE

58620 Sink Road (269) 782-8998 CHI ISHOBAK

27043 Potawatomi Trail (269) 783-4157 EDUCATION

58620 Sink Road (269) 782-0887 office (888) 330-1234 toll free (269) 782-0985 fax

58653 Sink Road (269) 783-3138 FACILITIES

57824 East Pokagon Trail (269) 783-0443 office (269) 783-0452 fax FINANCE

58620 Sink Road (269) 782-8998 office (800) 517-0777 toll free (269) 782-1028 fax

SOCIAL SERVICES

MNO -BMADSEN

415 East Prairie Ronde Street (269) 783-4111 NATURAL RESOURCES

32142 Edwards Street (269) 782-9602 office (269) 782-1817 fax POKAGON HEALTH SERVICES

58620 Sink Road (269) 782-4141 office (888) 440-1234 toll free

3733 Locust Street South Bend, Indiana 46614 (574) 282-2638 office (800) 737-9223 toll free (574) 282-2974 fax TRIBAL COUNCIL

58620 Sink Road (269) 782-6323 office (888) 376-9988 toll free (269) 782-9625 fax TRIBAL COURT

58620 Sink Road (269) 783-0505 office (269) 783-0519 fax TRIBAL POLICE

58620 Sink Road (269) 782-2232 office (866) 399-0161 toll free (269) 782-7988 fax ZAGBËGON

58620 Sink Road (269) 783-2469 office (269) 782-8680 fax

M S K W Ë M N ËK É GIZ ES

Citizen Announcements

RASPBE RRY PICK IN G M O O N

Congratulations to My son Brandon Winchester-Jones!

Angel May Bowling

Brandon graduated during the Pandemic May 2, 2020 with Bachelors Degree in Religious Education and a Minor in Sports Management from Grace Christian University & Davenport University.

From your first day of school to your graduation day today, we are over the moon so proud of you! From sleepless nights when you were just a baby, to all the school activities that kept us busy. This day makes it all worth it. You have made us so proud!

While in College Brandon, an outstanding Point Guard, was an All American Player who helped his team win the NCCAA National Championship game in 2019.

Grace Tigers were also Regional Champions stripped of their opportunity to capture the National Championship due to the Pandemic in 2020.

Brandon Currently resides in Chicago, Ill. Brandon is a Lead Basketball coach for a children’s league in the suburbs of Chicago while also actively training and attending Basketball combine’s to hopefully sign a professional Basketball league contract.

Brandon is the Son of Michele Winchester & Thomas Jones and the Step son of McKinley Greer.

Your Dad is not here with us today, if he was, he would be beaming with pride. He would also let you know that you were always his Angel here on earth, now he is your Angel always looking over you.

Congratulations to our Nishnabe Princess, as you graduate from Hartford High School!

We love you, Mom and Dad

pokégnek bodéwadmik administration

He is the Grandson of Joyce Winchester and Michael & Sally Winchester.

We are all so very proud of you!

Love, Mom

Azhdéyakpigén You Vote!

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your government. your voice. your vote matters.

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Leona Falk sends belated birthday wishes to her sister Estella Yvonne O’Keefe-Heffington.

Happy 87th Birthday, Estella!

Election Day is Saturday, July 9, 2022 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. • Community Center Can’t make it on election day? Request your Absentee Ballot today!

The deadline to file a request for an absentee ballot

by US Mail, Fax or email is July 1 by 4:30 p.m.

The deadline to file a request for an absentee ballot

by Hand Delivery is July 8 by 2:00 p.m.

The deadline for the Election Board to receive absentee ballots is July 8 by 4:30 p.m.

Absentee ballots will be distributed on June 10. This distribution will go to those who have put in their request prior to this date. After this date they will go out as the Election Board receives the requests.

Questions? Contact Theresa Barber at Theresa.Barber@ PokagonBand-nsn.gov or call (269) 782-9475.

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