2023 February Pokégnêk Yathdanawa

Pokegne k Ya t h danawa l

Page 4

Check Out the New Wellness Center Challenge

Page 6 Join the Virtual Book Discussion

Back Page

Sign up for the Sugar Making Trough Workshop

Come Celebrate the Grand Opening of Four Winds South Bend Hotel

Join us as we celebrate the new expansion including the Hotel, Cedar Spa, Edgewater Café, and Ribbon Town Conference, and Event Center.

Enter for a chance to be one of the first guests to experience the new Four Winds Hotel with a complimentary one-night stay between Saturday, February 25 - Monday, February 27, including complimentary breakfast served in Ribbon Town from 7:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. To enter, please call (888) 376-9988 before February 10, 2023.

Pokagon Citizens Family Day

Saturday, February 25 10 a.m. - 8 p.m.

• Pokagon Citizens and immediate family members of all ages welcome.

• Live entertainment including carnival games, face painting, magicians, characters, balloon artist, and complimentary food offering.

• The Buffet, Kankakee Grille, and Timbers will be open with 50% Citizen discount.

• Tours of the Hospitality Suites, Edgewater Café, Cedar Spa, and Pool area will be available.

Please turn to page 10

FEBRUARY 2023

SNOW MOON Gon gizes

Chairwoman’s Corner Bozho,

It looks like winter finally made its way to us! What a busy January we’ve had. Migwėtth to those of you who joined us in person and virtually for our Saturday Citizen meeting on January 13. We appreciate hearing from you and value your opinions and suggestions.

After announcing the date of the grand opening for the Four Winds South Bend Hotel at the media event and tour, we’ve received upwards of 50 media outlets sharing our exciting news. March 1 will mark the culmination of a nearly two-and-a-half-year journey to realize our vision to expand Four Winds South Bend. Please refer to the story on the front page of this newsletter for details on the pre-opening festivities for our citizens and their families!

On Thursday, January 26, we presented our Voluntary Contributions from Class II gaming revenue from Four Winds South Bend to the City of South Bend and several local non-profits. This is our final year of the program. Several guests, including South Bend Mayor James Mueller, many of the check recipients, and members of the South Bend City Council were on hand for the presentation. Not only is South Bend home to hundreds of our Pokagon Citizens, but also many of our employees that work at Four Winds South Bend. We are very proud to support the city, along with these important organizations that play a vital role to serve the residents of the community and help make South Bend a better place to live.

I want to remind you that as a Pokagon Citizen, you have access to free legal advice in both Michigan and Indiana. Remember that our Tribal Court is not able to provide legal advice. On page 10 in this newsletter, you’ll find contact information for Michigan Indian Legal Services (MILS) and Indiana Legal Services (ILS). Please take advantage of this free service.

There are many activities happening in the next couple of months. Be sure to watch for updates in the weekly Bodéwadmik Blast, and the monthly Pokégnek Yajdanawa. Here’s a snapshot of what’s coming up.

• Zisbakwtokan Sugar Camp. This family-friendly activity needs volunteers, and the dates are determined by the weather. Email Cusi Ballew at Peter. Gibbons-Ballew@PokagonBand-nsn.gov for information.

• Let’s Make Regalia takes place on Saturdays from 12 – 5 p.m. at the Center of History & Culture. Future dates are February 5 and 19, and March 5 and 19. You may RSVP with Amy Morseau at AmyJo.Morseau@PokagonBand-nsn.gov.

• Our Annual Meeting is Saturday, March 18 at the Pokagon Family Activity Center. Stay tuned for details. We’re excited to have this meeting in person once again.

• The Wellness Center is hosting a 3-on-3 Basketball Tournament on Saturday, March 25 at 9 a.m. The tournament is free for members of the Healthy Lifestyle Campaign, and $10 for individuals from the general population, or $30 a team. There are divisions for everyone! Mixed youth, Men's, Women’s, Coed, Elders, and Generational. Contact the Wellness Center to register.

Watch for my next bi-weekly address on Friday, February 10. Until then, stay warm and know you may always reach out to me or anyone on Tribal Council.

P.S. Don’t forget to do something sweet for all the valentines in your life.

Migwėtth,

Rebecca Richards Tribal Chairwoman

Attention Tribal Elder

Elders should have received or will receive your 2023 Social Security Benefit Amount Statement.

Every year the Pokagon Band Elders Program needs a copy of your Social Security Benefit Statement, a completed application, and a copy of your Medicare card. If you wish to get the reimbursement for the Medicare Medical Insurance. (Medicare Part B - $164.90)

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me at (269) 782-0765 or (800) 859/2717.

Please submit this information to: Pokagon Band Elders Program, Beth Warner – Elder Specialist, PO Box 180, Dowagiac, MI 49047

Fax Number: (269) 782-1696

E-mail: Beth.Warner@PokagonBand-nsn.gov

Zagbëgon registration for the 2023-24 school year opens Wednesday, March 1.

Eligibility: Must be at least 3 years old by September 1.

• Tier 1: Pokagon Band citizens, siblings, and/or residents in a Pokagon household;

• Tier 2: Other Native Americans;

• Tier 3: All Other; Special consideration will be given to PBOPI employees for Tier 3 status

pokégnek bodéwadmik

zagbëgon + center of history & culture + elders council

Please join our community for a Spring Ghost Supper

Community Thibakwéwen

Thursday, March 30 | 6 - 8 p.m. | Community Center

Please join Zagbëgon and the Pokagon Band Community as we renew the connections with our ancestors and reunite in the ghost supper.  The community has been in the reunification of our sacred ways for many years. As part of that process it is our duty to see that these connections are passed down to our future generations. Our community will pray for the past three generations, the current generation, and the future three generations as has been done since time immemorial. At the ceremony there will be a sacred fire to offer prayers to the creator for our ancestors by offering a spirit plate in our loved one’s honor. Main dish, beverages, and dessert will be provided. Please bring feast bags and dish (preferably purchased) to pass in honor of your loved one who has passed.

For additional information, please contact:

Donald.Sumners@PokagonBand-nsn.gov or Rebecca. Williams@PokagonBand-nsn.gov

RSVP preferred but not required at the QR code below.

“Jiibye Dbikat Wiikdewin is a time for the spirit world and the world of man. The spirits depart for the spirit world away from the cold of one more winter. Wandering spirits, long lost, were called to feast with an ancient song. They appeared slowly, hesitantly as some were injured in their lives and were shy about their appearance. Many were not given the proper ceremony in death. These spirits remain forever on the earth’s face. Those spirits that return to the spirit world will return on the arrival of the first thunders and the song of many frogs in early spring along. Many only migrates to their warmer summer camps to subsist on the fish that spawn

all summer. Fresh meat from the four-leggeds is a welcome variation in diet. To take the life of a nursing mother of any four-legged is forbidden to us by Creator. Stories of familiar old Nishnabe humor tell from many years ago that this annual migration soon came known as the journey to the happy hunting grounds, or mino dowenjge kaa.”

-Stewart King

Community Circle Events Scheduled Community Circle

We invite you to attend our upcoming townhall forums to discuss village designing for the Dowagiac Edawat, Hartford Edawat, and South Bend Edawat. The topics for these townhalls include types of housing needed, desired amenities, and other improvements, and areas of emphasis for development (environmental preservation, safety, ease of maintenance, recreation).

• Dowagiac Edawat Focus Townhall*

March 7, 2023 • 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Pokagon Band Community Center

27043 Potawatomi Trail, Dowagiac, Michigan 49047

• Hartford Edawat Focus Townhall*

March 8, 2023 • 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Nabit/Stone Soup Lab

501 W. Main Street, Hartford, Michigan 49057

• South Bend Edawat Focus Townhall*

March 9, 2023 • 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.

South Bend Government Office

3773 Locust Road, South Bend, Indiana 46614

*Meetings will focus on these Edawats but discussion shall not be limited these particular villages.

An online survey will be released at a later date for those who cannot attend the in-person townhalls.

If you would like to be notified of online survey availability or be reminded of these events, please contact Robert Torzynski AICP, Planning Manager at (269) 782-4896 or Robert.Torzynski@PokagonBand-nsn.gov

Adeline Dixon Retires after 11 Years of Service

“Adeline has been a terrific team member of the Facilities Department,” expressed Cecil Wilson Sr, Director of Facilities. “She made it a point to acknowledge and talk to people in the various buildings that she worked in. Adeline not only did her job but also took the time to train other staff when needed. She is one of the teammates that you hate to see go because filling her shoes will not be easy. We all hope she enjoys her well-earned retirement.”

We wish Dr. William Birch, who has provided counsel to the Pokagon Band Tribal Police Department since 2015, a happy retirement. He has been available to our officers 24/7 whenever they are in need of assistance.

SATURDAY,APRIL 22 • 10A.M . – 1P.M .

In December, the Pokagon Band Tribal Police Department celebrated the dedication and service of Deputy Chief, Mike Bradley. Mike retired from the Tribal Police Department after nearly six years with the Department.

Mike’s 35 years of Law Enforcement experience began at the Berrien County Sheriff's Department, where he rose through the ranks and became their Emergency Manager for many years. Mike became a very well respected and renown Emergency Manager, not only for Berrien County, but also for Michigan. Mike eventually was promoted to Chief Deputy and retired as Chief Deputy in 2017. Soon after, Mike joined the Pokagon Band as Emergency Manager and then shortly after that became the Deputy Chief. Mike served two hats while with the Pokagon Tribal Police Department, one as Emergency Manager and the other as Deputy Chief. Mike facilitated the Health Task Force during the COVID pandemic for the Tribe, as well as served on a National Emergency Manager Committee and a Michigan Emergency Manager committee chosen by the Governor.

RODGERS LAKE PAVILION

Enjoy Earth Day and Arbor Day activities and education, giveaways, and a celebratory end of sugar season feast.

pokégnek bodéwadmik kowabdanawa odË kĖ

A Fond Farewell to our DC

Migwėtth, Dr. Birch

What’s that Non-Native Species? Zebra mussel (Dreissena polymorpha)

Populations of zebra mussels (Dreissena polymorpha) were first identified in the Great Lakes around 1988. The zebra mussel is so named because of its’ zebra-type stripes on the shells. Zebra mussels are native to Eastern Europe and Western Russia and arrived in the Great Lakes region through the ballast water of freighters. Zebra mussels are prolific, with a single female able to lay over one million eggs in a single year.

These mussels have become widely established in the Great Lakes region and inhabit many inland lakes, streams, and rivers. This number is growing every year due to inadvertent movement of zebra mussels between waterbodies. Zebra mussels can reside in bilge water and can quickly attach to any surface that is under water, including live native clams and crayfish.

The burden of zebra mussels can cause the death of these native species. For this reason, it is very important to fully drain your boat, remove any visible hitchhikers from the boat or trailer, and wash the boat and trailer when moving from one lake to another. Zebra mussels have had catastrophic effects including the alteration of aquatic food webs, causing an increase in bioaccumulation of pollutants, causing cut hazards to swimmers, and clogging up piping. Additionally, they impact local communities and governments by costing well over $1 billion per year in addressing issues and preventing future issues that involve zebra mussels.

What’s that Edible Plant? Eastern White Pine (Pinus strobus)

With it being cold and flu season, a great medicinal food is provided by the eastern white pine (Pinus strobus). Eastern white pine is considered one of the best choices for producing pine needle tea. Pine needle tea can be made from most pine needles, however, be sure to positively identify your pine before harvesting. The eastern white pine has needles that occur in clusters of five.

The tea extracted from pine needles is high in vitamin C and A, making it a great remedy for fighting colds and boosting immunity. Newly growing needle clusters, bright green in color, are the best to harvest for tea.

To make the tea collect ½ cup to 1 cup of needles. Remove the brown paper and tip of the needle bunch. Cut the needles into small pieces. Bring 24 ounces of water to a boil. Add pine needles and simmer for 20 minutes, however, the needles can be steeped for up to two days. Strain out the needles, sweeten to taste, and drink warm or cold. Pregnant women should not drink this tea. Another edible provided by eastern white pine is their pollen. Eastern white pine male pollen cones can be collected just prior to releasing pollen and the pollen can be used in baking (pancakes) and in smoothies. 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 adverse reactions.

Be Heart Aware

Heart disease is the leading cause of death for men, women, and people of most racial and ethnic groups in the United States.

• One person dies every 36 seconds in the United States from cardiovascular disease.

• About 659,000 people in the United States die from heart disease each year—that’s 1 in every 4 deaths.

• Heart disease costs the United States about $363 billion each year from 2016 to 2017. This includes the cost of health care services, medicines, and lost productivity due to death.

Coronary Artery Disease

• Coronary heart disease is the most common type of heart disease, killing 360,900 people in 2019.

• About 18.2 million adults age 20 and older have CAD (about 6.7%).

• About 2 in 10 deaths from CAD happen in adults less than 65 years old.

Heart Attack

• In the United States, someone has a heart attack every 40 seconds.

• Every year, about 805,000 people in the United States have a heart attack. Of these, ‒ 605,000 are a first heart attack

‒ 200,000 happen to people who have already had a heart attack About 1 in 5 heart attacks is silent—the damage is done, but the person is not aware of it.

Risk for Heart Disease

High blood pressure, high blood cholesterol, and smoking are key risk factors for heart disease.

Several other medical conditions and lifestyle choices can also put people at a higher risk for heart disease, including:

• Diabetes

• Overweight and obesity

• Unhealthy diet

• Physical inactivity

• Excessive alcohol use

Symptoms of a Heart Attack

• Chest pain or discomfort. The discomfort can feel like uncomfortable pressure, squeezing, fullness, or pain.

• Feeling weak, light-headed, or faint. You may also break out into a cold sweat.

• Pain or discomfort in the jaw, neck, or back.

• Pain or discomfort in one or both arms or shoulders.

• Shortness of breath. This often comes along with chest discomfort, but shortness of breath also can happen before chest discomfort.

• Call 9-1-1 if you notice symptoms of a heart attack. Resources for Individuals and Patients are available at cdc.gov

Holiday Fun for the Elders

It was a packed house for the 2022 Elders Holiday Party held at Four Winds Silver Creek Event Center in New Buffalo. Many showed up to enjoy friends, fun, food, and free play. The Elder’s Council also distributed gift cards to those in attendance.

Stay tuned for details on the next Elder’s Social happening at the Community Center on Thursday, February 16. The fun begins at 11 a.m.

pokégnek bodéwadmik pokagon health services + kowabdanawa odë kė (dnr) + education

Community Outreach, Kowabdanawa odë kė, and the Department of Education invite you to honor the newest members of our tribe.

Can you climb Mount Everest?

Bozho Penothés

Saturday, April 15 • 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. Pokagon Band Family Activity Center

You’re Invited to our Families that have welcomed babies born between April 1, 2022, and March 31, 2023, are asked to RSVP by March 31. You need to be pre-registered to attend. Babies will receive recognition and a small gift, followed by a community feast in their honor.

Please scan the QR code to register.

PAGE 6 SNOW MOON Gon gizes

Come Celebrate the Grand Opening of Four Winds South Bend Hotel, continued from page one

• Each Pokagon Citizen in attendance will receive a gift.

• Each Pokagon Citizen and one guest, 21 years and older, will each receive a $100 Instant Credit/Free Slot Play offer.

• Offer can be redeemed at the W Players Club or Guest Services beginning February 20 through March 20, 2023, at any Four Winds location.

• Pokagon Citizens and Pokagon Spouses employed by Four Winds will receive a $100 Four Winds gift card in lieu of Free Slot Play at Four Winds South Bend.

• Must present Tribal ID.

Ribbon Cutting

Wednesday, March 1 10:30 a.m.

• Grand entry

• Posting of the flags

• Prayer

• Ceremonial dancers

• Tribal regalia is encouraged

of

Virtual Book Discussion: There There

by Tommy Orange

Thursday, March 9 • 6:00 p.m. • Microsoft Teams

Join the Victim Services program for a discussion of Tommy Orange’s 2018 novel, There There. The book centers on 12 interconnected community members in the Oakland Urban Indian community and their recollections of events leading up to a traumatic event during the Big Oakland pow wow. The book reflects on a variety of topics, including identity, trauma, substance use, and violence.

Books will be provided to the first 15 people who register by Friday, February 3. Only a limited number of books will be provided, so please reach out to Casey Kasper-Welles if you are interested in attending.

You may still register after February 3, however you will need to provide your own copy of the book. Check your local bookstore or library to buy or borrow a copy of the book. There There is also available on audiobook wherever you access audiobooks.

If you have any questions reach out to Casey Kasper-Welles at Casey.Kasper-Welles@ PokagonBand-nsn.gov.

Social Services

Dinner provided Open to anyone 14+ years old pokégnek bodéwadmik department of education

Tuesday, March 7 at 5:30 p.m. with Casey Kasper-Welles at the Police Station Conference room Medical

CAREERS EXPO Healthcare

Have you ever thought about having a career in the medical field? Then the Healthcare Careers Expo is for you!

SOUTH BEND

Who: Native American High School Students and Adults

When: Tuesday, April 18, 5:30-7:30 p.m.

Where: Family Activity Center

Kë Wzhetomen Wzhetomen –Let's Make Regalia

Yoga

Gdédsêk – Little Otters

Community Craft Nights

Smart Moves

Mbesniyêk – After School Program

Cardio Drumming

Gdédsêk – Little Otters

Ėthë Bodwéwadmimwat Academy Potawatomi

Winter Youth Soccer

Cardio Drumming

Gdédsêk – Little Otters

Ėthë Bodwéwadmimwat Academy Potawatomi Winter Youth Soccer

Zhoshbon – Snow Snake

Yoga

Gdédsêk – Little Otters

Community Craft Nights

Smart Moves

Mbesniyêk – After School Program

Cardio Drumming

Gdédsêk – Little Otters

Ėthë Bodwéwadmimwat Academy Potawatomi

Winter Youth Soccer

Kë Wzhetomen Wzhetomen –Let's Make Regalia

Zisbakwet – Pancake Breakfast to Kick off Sugar Season

Yoga

Gdédsêk – Little Otters

Community Craft Nights

Play And Learn Social (PALS)

Smart Moves

Mbesniyêk – After School Program

Cardio Drumming

Gdédsêk – Little Otters

Winter Youth Soccer

Yoga

Gdédsêk – Little Otters

Community Craft Nights

Smart Moves

Mbesniyêk – After School Program

MOON FEBRUARY 2023

Otters

Bodwéwadmimwat & Zagbëgon

Potawatomi Language Class

Soccer Clinic

Yoga

Smart Moves

Pokagon's National Youth Group

Otters

Bodwéwadmimwat & Zagbëgon

Potawatomi Language Class

Soccer Clinic

Yoga Smart Moves

Pokagon's National Youth Group

Otters

Bodwéwadmimwat & Zagbëgon

Potawatomi Language Class

Soccer Clinic

Yoga

Smart Moves

Pokagon's National Youth Group

Otters

Soccer Clinic

Yoga Smart Moves

Pokagon's National Youth Group

Tribal Citizen Saturday Meeting

Zisbakwet – Sugar Making

Trough Workshop

IUSB Tour

Rider's Christmas Tradition Continues

5 degrees.

Bitter cold harsh winds.

At least 24 inches of snow in spots.

And we still managed to get our annual luminary out. Bags are leaning over if not completely bent...but we held fast to our 12-year tradition.

Officers are remembered.

Families mourned for.

– Steve Rider, Government Manager

Free Legal Advice for Citizens

Do you need advice or assistance with a legal issue? The Band has arranged for Michigan Indian Legal Services (MILS) and Indiana Legal Services (ILS) to provide free legal services to Pokagon citizens (and in some cases, spouses of Pokagon citizens) regarding certain types of legal issues:

• Guardianships and Conservatorships

• Power of Attorney (Medical and/or Financial)

• Simple Wills

• Real Estate Matters

• Landlord Tenant Matters

• General civil matter legal advice

• Expungements (misdemeanor and low-level felony) [Indiana only]

• Specialized Driving Permits [Indiana only]

For questions about Michigan or Pokagon Band law, contact Michigan Indian Legal Services (231) 947-0122. MILS holds hours at the Community Center on the 2nd and 4th Wednesday of the month.

For questions about Indiana law, contact Indiana Legal Services: 401 East Colfax, Suite 116 South Bend, Indiana (574) 234-8121

Except for criminal matters in Pokagon Tribal Court, there are no asset or income restrictions for Pokagon Band citizens receiving this free legal service. Not all legal services provided include representation in court, in some instances the available legal services are limited to document review, document preparation, and/or providing legal advice.

This month the Tribal Development Program (TDP) at Four Winds Casinos shares the career path of Jennifer Webster, Vice president of Food and Beverage Operations. Jennifer joined the Marketing Department pre-opening in 2007 and then moved into the Human Resources Department a year later. Like so many of us, Jennifer has worked in various departments throughout her career with Four Winds. Jennifer’s commitment to the company as well as her Food and Beverage team continues to shine through each day. She continues to support other employees in their career paths along the way as well as Tribal Development. It is TDP’s pleasure to present Jennifer Webster’s Four Winds Journey.

I began my career in Hospitality at the age of 16 years old working in local restaurants and ice cream shops. When I graduated from high school, I began working at a hotel in my hometown of Kalamazoo, MI. I identified quickly that the hospitality industry would be my career choice. Hospitality led me to Myrtle Beach, SC; Greenville, SC; Canton, MI; and Butler PA before returning home to Kalamazoo in 2003. I held various positions in the hotel industry but quickly became a General Manager of Marriott and Hilton branded hotels; even winning both Hotel of the Year and General Manager of the Year with Marriott.

I took a brief hiatus from hotels in 2006 and worked at a call center in customer service for a bank until June of 2007 when I joined Four Winds as the Call Center Manager. In 2008, I worked in one of the most rewarding jobs I have held in my career as the Manager of Tribal Placement and Development. I had the opportunity to help develop and expand the Program while supporting Tribal Citizens, Spouses and Custodial Parents in their pursuits of employment and advancement opportunities at Four Winds.

I was promoted to Vice President of Hotel Operations in 2010 where I was able to utilize my 18 years of hotel experience. I was able to expand my Food and Beverage knowledge in 2014 when I transferred to Vice President of Food & Beverage Operations.

Since working in Food and Beverage and with the assistance of TDP, I have obtained my Certified Food and Beverage Executive Certification. I am so pleased to say that with the assistance of the TDP Tuition Reimbursement Program, I was the first of my mother’s children to have earned a college degree in May of 2022. It is not easy working full-time, maintaining a home and family while taking classes, but it has truly been worth the effort.

Since beginning my career with Four Winds, I have developed many great working relationships and friendships. I have benefited from having some wonderful mentors who have offered me guidance and advice over the years. I encourage you to take advantage of all the great opportunities that the TDP Program offers. Some of the Programs that I have personally benefited the most from are Leadership Classes, the Mentorship Program, and Tuition Reimbursement.

Jennifer Webster's Four Winds Journey

Tips for a Better Grocery Shopping Experience

When you plan ahead and shop wisely, you can buy plenty of healthy foods without breaking the bank. The key is organization! Planning for each trip to the grocery store is half the battle. Before hitting the market, keep these tips in mind:

• Plan your meals on a weekly or monthly basis. Use a calendar to stay organized and set a reasonable weekly or monthly food budget.

• Look through your refrigerator, freezer, and pantry to see what you already have and what you need. Then create a shopping list based on recipes you like and the foods you have on hand.

• Plan a meatless meal 1 or 2 nights a week. Tofu, eggs, beans, and nuts are healthy protein foods that are good for your wallet, too.

• Look for discount markets and membership warehouses in your area. You may find deals at membership warehouses, but warehouse prices are not always the lowest. Warehouse stores may also tempt you to buy more than you need. Buy food you know you will use, or split bulk items with a friend.

• Buy a coupon organizer and use it to file coupons. Throw out coupons when they expire. Download coupons and use a store loyalty card to get the best prices on food you buy regularly.

• Check out grocery store fliers and websites for weekly sales. Plan meals and snacks around items that are on sale. Try not to get sidetracked by items you don’t need.

• Take reusable grocery bags with you each time you shop. Some stores offer discounts when you re-use bags.

Supermarkets may seem designed to make you overspend, but there are ways to stay on budget. It may take a bit more time, but advance planning and careful shopping can help you save:

Skip items that are easy to make at home, such as soup, pasta sauce, and salad dressing. Spend money on convenience items like mustard and bread.

Pay attention to the unit price, which appears on the shelf tag next to the item’s price. Compare the unit prices of similar products or different sizes of the same product to find the cheapest option. This can help you find the better bargain.

Instead of foods packaged in single servings, buy larger containers. When you get home, divide foods like raisins, nuts, applesauce, crackers, and whole wheat pretzels into your own small containers or bags.

Buy a block of cheese instead of shredded or sliced cheese. You save money by grating or slicing cheese at home.

Skip meats that are cubed, pounded, or seasoned before they are sold. Instead, choose plain cuts of lean meat, poultry, and fish for big savings. When meats, fish, or poultry are on sale, buy extra. When you get home, divide the packages into smaller portions and freeze for future use.

Prepare produce at home to save money. Pre-cut or peeled fruits and vegetables tend to be quite expensive.

Buy dried herbs instead of fresh, especially when fresh herbs are not in season. Dry herbs will work in most recipes calling for fresh but use smaller amounts.

Ki gkéndan né Did you know?

Did you know, that before European contact there were about 270 Indigenous languages spoken north of present day Mexico? Each one having numerous distinct dialects within. Today there are only about 160 Indigenous languages that remain spoken today. It is very important to learn our language to keep our identity as Bodéwadmik.

Acorn Squash with Wild Rice Stuffing

• ½ cup wild rice

• 2 squash for stuffing – acorn, carnival, or sweet dumpling squash will work well

• Vegetable oil · Salt and pepper

• ½ pound ground bison

• 1 small onion, chopped

• 1-2 ribs celery, chopped

• ½ teaspoon rubbed sage or 4 fresh sage leaves, minced

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder or 2-4 cloves fresh garlic, minced

• ½ teaspoon oregano or Italian seasoning

• ¼ teaspoon salt

• ¼ teaspoon pepper

• 1 - 4 oz. can mushrooms, drained (optional, but delicious)

• ½ cup dried fruit and nut mix OR ¼ cup dried cherries and ¼ cup mixed nuts

1. Wash your hands before preparing food.

2. Prepare the wild rice: rinse wild rice in water, drain and add to 3 cups water in medium-sized pan. Bring to a boil and reduce heat to maintain a gentle simmer. Cover and cook until rice is tender, about 30-45 minutes. Drain excess liquid.

3. While rice is cooking, prepare the squash: preheat oven to 375°F. Wash the outside of the squash, and slice in half. Scoop out seeds and discard.

4. Brush cut sides of squash with vegetable oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Place squash in baking dish cut side up and cover loosely with aluminum foil. Roast squash until tender when poked with a fork or paring knife, about 30 to 50 minutes, remove from oven.

5. While the squash is roasting, prepare filling by sautéing ground bison with chopped onion, celery and spices until meat is cooked through and vegetables are soft. Add mushrooms, cooked wild rice, and dried fruit and nut mix. Stir gently until well mixed. Taste and adjust for spices.

6. Divide the filling between the squash halves, use a spoon to fill the squash bowls and mound the filling on top.

7. Cover the pan with the foil and return to oven until hot through, about 15-20 minutes. If you have a food thermometer, 165°F is perfect.

8. Serve immediately and offer salt and pepper.

Notes and Ideas:

• Squash may be stuffed with a variety of meats, legumes, grains, vegetables, nuts and spices.

• Some people like to drizzle a bit of maple syrup over the top for serving

Mondays from 6 – 8 p.m. • February 6 – April 24 • Community Center

Tribal families are invited to bring their own craft supplies for a night of crafting and community socializing. Please bring a dish to pass for the weekly potluck. Limited supplies for traditional crafts may be provided if available and requested prior to gathering. Contact the Center of History & Culture for additional information.

November 1, 2022, through April 1, 2023

Pokagon Band Elders

SNOW REMOVAL REIMBURSEMENT APPLICATION FORM

Name: ________________________ Address: ____________________________________

City: ________________________State& Zip Code:

Phone No: ____________________ Tribal ID: _________________

THIRD-PARTY SNOW REMOVAL 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 snow removal 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 snow removal service provider. You will not be reimbursed if you are the person who removed snow from your own driveway. 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 snow removal.

To be eligible for reimbursement, you must complete and return this application. Additionally, you must include the invoice(s) or receipt(s) from third party service provider. All invoices or receipts must be from the third-party service provider and not the Elder. We may contact your third-party snow removal provider for verification. Incomplete applications, applications without invoice(s)/receipt(s), and applications received after April 15, 2023, will not be processed.

The completed application with accompanying invoice(s)/receipt(s) must be returned to: Elder’s Council / P.O. Box 180 Dowagiac Michigan 49047. Any questions call Elder’s Hall at (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: _________________________________________________________________

will be held at the

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

Tribal Council February 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, South Bend, 10 a.m.

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

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

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

28 Gaming Authority, South Bend, 10 a.m.

Tribal Council March 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, South Bend, 10 a.m.

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

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

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

28 Gaming Authority, South Bend, 10 a.m.

Elder's Council February Calendar of Events

Stay connected. Check PokagonBand-nsn.gov for the latest information. For the winter months, the Elder’s Business Meeting will begin at 11 a.m. at the Community Center. Please mark your calendars for Thursday, February 2. The Elder Social is Thursday, February 16 at 11 a.m. at the Community Center.

Open Positions Available

The following open positions are still available. Please refer to the Pokagon website or the Legislative Edition to read the position descriptions, qualifications, and details on how to apply.

• Election Board

• Enrollment Committee

• Ethics Board

• Family Welfare Commission

• Food Sovereignty Committee

• Ggaténmamen Gdankobthegnanêk

Pow Wow Committee

• Health Board

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.

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

Wednesday, February 15 Monday, February 27 Tuesday, February 28

Wednesday, March 15 Thursday, March 30 Thursday, March 31

Friday, April 14 Thursday, April 27 Friday, April 28

Monday, May 15 Thursday, May 25 Friday, May 26

Thursday, June 15 Thursday, June 29 Friday, June 30

Friday, July 14 Thursday, July 27 Friday, July 28

Tuesday, August 15 Wednesday, August 30 Thursday, August 31

Friday, September 15 Thursday, September 28 Friday, September 29

Friday, October 13 Monday, October 30 Tuesday, October 31

Monday, November 13 Tuesday, November 21 Wednesday, November 22

Friday, December 15 Thursday, December 21 Friday, December 22

Elder's Benefit

Soon to be 55 years old? Please submit an Elder's Benefit Registration form for benefits to Elder's 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: Elder's Hall

P.O. Box 180, Dowagiac, MI 49047

• Kee-Boon-Mein-Kaa Pow Wow Committee

• Mno-Bmadsen Board Director

• Native Youth Council

• Ogitchedaw Board of Directors

• Pokagon Rights Board

• Tribal Art Committee

Fax: (269) 782-1696

Email: Social.Services@PokagonBand-nsn.gov

The Elde'r Specialist at Elder's Hall can answer questions, call (269) 782-0765 or (800) 859 2717.

The Social Services Department needs the following individuals to update their address and phone number for Elder's Benefit. Please contact the Enrollment Office at (269) 782-1763.

Tribal Council Directory

(888) 376-9988 toll free or (269) 782-6323 office

CHAIRWOMAN

Rebecca Richards (269) 519-0150

Rebecca.Richards@PokagonBand-nsn.gov

VICE CHAIR

Gary Morseau, Sr

(269) 519-6497

Gary.Morseau@PokagonBand-nsn.gov

TREASURER

Alex Wesaw (269) 462-1170

Alex.Wesaw@PokagonBand-nsn.gov

SECRETARY

Sam Morseau

(269) 462-1830

Sam.Morseau@PokagonBand-nsn.gov

Elder's Council Directory

Pokegnek Yathdanawa

MEMBER AT LARGE

Brandon Rapp

(269) 519-0334

Brandon.Rapp@PokagonBand-nsn.gov

MEMBER AT LARGE

Mark Parrish (269) 479-6283

Mark.Parrish@PokagonBand-nsn.gov

MEMBER AT LARGE

Steve Winchester (269) 591-0119

Steve.Winchester@PokagonBand-nsn.gov

MEMBER AT LARGE

Mark Topash (269) 519-6200

Mark.Topash@PokagonBand-nsn.gov

Elder's Hall (800) 859-2717 toll free or (269) 782-0765 office

CHAIR

Judy Winchester (269) 462-1578

Judy.Winchester@PokagonBand-nsn.gov

VICE CHAIR

Patricia Williams (269) 845-6792

Patricia.Williams@PokagonBand-nsn.gov

Directory of Services

ADMINISTRATION

58620 Sink Road

Dowagiac, Michigan 49047

(269) 782-8998 office

(888) 281-1111 toll free

CENTER OF HISTORY & CULTURE

59291 Indian Lake Road

(269) 462-4325

COMMODITIES

(269) 782-3372 office

(888) 281-1111 toll free

(269) 782-7814 fax

COMMUNICATIONS

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

SECRETARY

Judy Augusta (269) 783-6304

Judy.Augusta@PokagonBand-nsn.gov

TREASURER

Tom Wilson (269) 462-1004

Tom.Wilson@PokagonBand-nsn.gov

ELDER'S PROGRAM

53237 Townhall Road

(269) 782-0765 office

(800) 859-2717 toll free

(269) 782-1696 fax

ELECTIONS

58620 Sink Road

(269) 782-9475 office

(888) 782-9475 toll free

ENROLLMENT

58620 Sink Road

(269) 782-1763 office

(269) 782-1964 fax

ĖTHË BODWÉWADMIMWAT

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

MEMBER AT LARGE

Rhonda L. Keene

(269) 519-6503

Rhonda.Keene@PokagonBand-nsn.gov

MEMBER AT LARGE

John Morseau

John.Morseau@PokagonBand-nsn.gov

ELDER'S REPRESENTATIVE

Barbara Ann Warren (269) 519-6058

Barbara.Warren@PokagonBand-nsn.gov

EXECUTIVE SECRETARY

Heather Pauley (269) 462-4203 desk (269) 845-1384 cell

Heather.Pauley@PokagonBand-nsn.gov

MEMBER AT LARGE

Theresa McFall (269) 783-9380

Theresa.McFall@PokagonBand-nsn.gov

HOUSING & COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT

57824 Potowatomi Trail

(269) 783-0443 office

(269) 783-0452 fax

HUMAN RESOURCES

58620 Sink Road

(269) 782-8998 office

(269) 782-4253 fax

INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

58620 Sink Road

(269) 782-8998 office

(800) 517-0777 toll free

(269) 782-6882 fax

KOWABDANAWA ODË KĖ

32142 Edwards Street

(269) 782-9602 office

(269) 782-1817 fax

MNO-BMADSEN

415 East Prairie Ronde Street

(269) 783-4111

POKAGON HEALTH SERVICES

58620 Sink Road

(269) 782-4141 office

(888) 440-1234 toll free

SOCIAL SERVICES

58620 Sink Road

(269) 782-8998 office

(800) 517-0777 toll free

(269) 782-4295 fax

SOUTH BEND AREA OFFICE 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

Seven Grandfather Teachings

Humility, if you are humble, you find Bravery, if you are brave, you find Honesty, if you are honest, you find Wisdom, if you are wise, you find Truth, if you are truthful, you find Respect, if you are respectful, you find Love, if you are loveable, you are humble, brave, honest, wise, truthful, and respectful to all.

– Michelle Sutherland

Zis Zisbakwet Mkëk

Sugar Making Trough Workshop

Saturday, February 18 • 11 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Zisbakwtoke gizes is coming. Zisbakwet (maple sugar) is the first gift of the season. After a long cold winter, it’s time to get outside and work together to make maple sap into sugar and syrup. In the old days we made enough sugar to last the whole year. Syrup was a seasonal treat. Sap was cooked past the point of syrup until it thickened and was ready. When it looked just right, that thick syrup was stirred vigorously with paddles in a wooden trough, steaming off the last of the water, and turning to sugar. This sugar would be stored in wigwas mkëk, and kept the whole year.

3-on-3 Basketball Tournament Where

To register, contact the Wellness Center or scan the QR code below.

Entry Fee

II

Scoring

Teams will play games that reach 15 points or 20 minutes, whichever comes first. You may have up to five players on your roster.

II

Divisions

This tournament is free for members of the Healthy Lifestyle Campaign, and $10 for individuals from the general population or $30 per team. II

Choose your preferred division: Mixed youth, Men’s, Women’s, Coed, Elders, and Generational, and winners of each division will receive prizes.

Joinusas wecarve sugar making troughs outofa basswood (wigbemesh)log.