2024 March Pokégnêk Yathdanawa Edition 1

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Pokegne k Ya t h danawa M ARC H 2024 EDITIO N 1

Th e th ak g izes CRANE M O ON

PAGE 9

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Elders Winter Olympics

Michaelann Daugherty Gartner, Elder of the Month

Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month

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pokégnek bodéwadmik housing & community development

Fixture, Appliance, Down Payment, & Rehabilitation Program (FADPR)

ANNOUNCES CHANGES! What you need to know: This is not a new program.

If your household has used your FADPR benefits, you cannot use again.

FADPR benefits Homeowners and Renters.

The FADPR benefit remains at $7,500 per household.

FADPR is no longer grant funded and Tribal Council has amended the policy to allow for additional qualified items.

Eligible items now include almost anything for operation of the household: appliances, fixtures, furnishings, furniture, lawn and garden equipment, sheds, decks, fences, patio furniture, and many other things.

You may still use the program to purchase a home.

You may now use the program to move into a home – rental or owned.

The benefit can be used for a deposit, first and last month's rent, truck rental, moving company expenses, utility deposits, and other moving expenses.

Direct purchase retailers are only Lowes and Home Depot.

You may shop online where a greater selection of items are available, but you will need to print out your order and take it to a local store for processing.

Do you have questions?

Call (877) 303-2888 to reach the FADPR Program direct phone number, or email Questions.FADPR@PokagonBand-nsn.gov.

How do I apply?

Scan the QR code below to complete the application.

M AR 2 0 2 4 P O K ÉG NÊ K YATHDA NAWA PAG E 3

Pedyébownenikwé ė yathmot CH A I RWOMA N TA LKS A BOU T THIN GS Bozho! Thank you for taking the time to read the first March edition of Pokégnek Yathdanawa. Can you believe Mnokmet (spring) is just around the corner? Several events are happening in March that I want to share with you.

First is our Blood Drive on Thursday, March 7, in the Multi-Purpose Room at PHS. Did you know that there is no substitute for blood? It cannot be manufactured or replicated artificially, so when you give blood, you directly contribute to saving lives within our community and beyond. The Community Outreach team encourages new donors to sign up.

Scan the QR Code for details.

March 9 is our Saturday Citizen's Meeting at the Community Center. If you have questions, comments, or concerns, plan on joining us virtually or in person at 10 a.m. The meeting link is posted on the citizens' portal.

The meeting agenda is as follows: 12:15 p.m., I will provide opening remarks 12:20 p.m., Tribal Council

• Strategic Planning • Long-Term Land Acquisition and Development Plan 1:00 p.m., Tribal Government Budget 1:30 p.m., Pokagon Development Authority 1:45 p.m., Mno-Bmadsen 2:15 p.m., Four Winds Casino & Resort 3:00 p.m., Closing Remarks / Giveaway On Saturday, March 23, the Food Sovereignty Committee will host a carry-in luncheon and contest at the Community Center. Try your hand at re-creating recipes made popular by the Three Sisters.

Scan the QR Code for details.

On Sunday, March 10 & 24, Kë Wzhetomen Mizhatthwen (Let's Make Regalia) is happening from 12 – 5 p.m. at the Center of History & Culture.

Participants will be working on necklaces.

Scan the QR Code for details.

Have you checked out our updated Photo Gallery on our website? You'll find photos of recent events like the Chili Cook-Off, Elders Winter Olympics, and the Pow Wow Club. It's great to see so much participation at our recent events. You can view the Photo Gallery hereby scanning the QR Code.

Please mark your calendars for Saturday, March 16, as we prepare for our 2024 Annual Membership Meeting. Doors open at 10 a.m., and citizens will have the opportunity to talk with team members and have coffee with a council member. Lunch begins at 11 a.m., and the meeting starts at noon with a welcome song, posting of the flags, and invocation.

I hope to see many of you at the citizens' and annual membership meetings. Until then, enjoy more daylight and savor the simple pleasures of spring. May the warmth of the sun and the fresh breeze bring renewed energy and delight to your days.

Tribal Council encourages you to ask questions at any time during the presentations. The government team will be at their tables through 2 p.m. Please be sure to visit with them, as I know they look forward to meeting with you.

Migwėtth,

Rebecca Richards Tribal Chairwoman

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pokégnek bodéwadmik food sovereignty committee

Carry-In Luncheon & Contest

The Three Sisters

1:30 p.m. Community Center

The Food Soveriegnty Committee is hosting a

Carry-In Luncheon & Contest. Try your luck at Indigenous Nswé wadgëkzéthêk “The Three Sisters” food recipes for your chance to win one of our Best-Of categories.

Best Tasting and Best Presentation of Kwesman squash, Mdamen corn, or Kothés beans recipes.

Prizes for best tasting venison, squash, corn, and beans.

Questions?

Contact FoodSoveriegntyCommittee@PokagonBand-nsn.gov

Mdamen Corn

Saturday, March 23

JAN 2024 POKÉGNÊ K YATHDANAWA PAG E 5

pokégnek bodéwadmik education

Discover something new!

Don’t miss your chance to reserve a Discovery Kit, available for all Pokagon youth, birth–17 years old, who have a 2023–2024 Educational Records Release on file. Discovery Kits are an age-appropriate assortment of games, activities, and toys that keep youth engaged during summer months. Kits are educational, focusing on STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematics).

Register by April 30 by scanning the QR Code.

You may have your kit mailed to you or pick it up at the Department of Education between:

Monday, June 3 - Friday, june 7 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

PAGE 6 B E A R MO O N MKO GIZE S

pokégnek bodéwadmik center of history & culture

Pow Wow Club & Craft Night

Learn about:

• Pow wow dance style, teachings, regalia, and dancing • Making and sewing your own regalia, limited supplies will be available to active participants. Helpers will be available to assist in making patterns, designs and sewing.

• Pow wow drumming, singing, etiquette (northern and southern style, rotate bi-weekly) • Sacred fire, smudging Open to families affiliated with any Tribe

Mondays through May 20 5:30 - 7:30 p.m. - Pow Wow Club - all ages welcome

Pokagon Band Community Center – Dinner Provided Children under the age of 12 must be accompanied by an adult

RSVP Please scan the QR code below, email AmyJo.Morseau

@PokagonBand-nsn.gov, or email Rebecca.Williams@Pokagon Band-nsn.gov

Questions? Text or call (269) 462-4296

M AR 2 0 2 4 P O K ÉG NÊ K YATHDA NAWA PAG E 7

Doing My Potawatomi Fast

By John P Warren

Boozhoo, I’ve been attending ceremonies, dancing, singing, and following the Red-Road life to the best of my ability. I’m not one to tell others how to live their traditional life as a Potawatomi, nor to tell one how to live as a human being. I’m very pleased to see that our people and others are still fasting and even going as far as Fasting in group settings. One teaching I have always followed is when visiting another community to conduct any kind of ceremony, whether a tribal department or the Tribe itself has asked, is to first go visit the Elders and other pipe carriers to give tobacco to them, to explain what I was asked to do in their community.

The reason I do this is because my teachings may not lineup with the original teachings of the community I’m visiting. I need to let those spiritual leaders know I was asked to conduct a ceremony and to let those Elders know I will let their community know my way may not be the way their Elders teach. I do this because we live in a time when there are many individuals that come into tribes and conduct ceremonies and never once passed tobacco to the Elders or took the time to speak one on one with the host tribal spiritual leaders.

So, with that being said, this is how I was taught to fast. Fasting is a rite of passage for the young or for one seeking to learn more about their Red-Road spiritual life. Many young are looking for guidance of who they are, what they are going to do in life, and where do they fit in, and many adults have the same nagging questions. We have spirit helpers that want to be helpful, be supportive, and guide us and our people for the good. Sometimes to unlock that insight and grow spiritually we must deny our physical being or suffer for our people to get the best direction to take. The old saying, “physical suffering builds a stronger spirit,” applies in this case.

Other reasons to fast are maybe one needs to disconnect with their daily grind and get refocused on what’s important in their lives. Many Elders from my generation and my previous generation used fasting as another way of finding one’s spiritual name/Indian name and clans. Some may fast days before a ceremony or leading up to seasonal ceremony. One of the common practices and simplest practices is fasting the day of the ceremony and breaking the fast at the ceremonial feast. One can get their adolescent child ready for fasting by rubbing a charcoal mark on their forehead, allowing the child to feel what small fasts feel like and giving them teachings so when they reach their teenage years, they will be equipped with knowledge and what to expect on their first four-day fast. The fast helps us to disconnect from technology and our noisy world. I can’t say that enough about disconnecting to find ourselves and give ourselves purpose in our spiritual lives.

So how do I do my fast? One of the first things that gave me the drive to want to fast was to unlock that blood memory, the search for my spirit helpers, to give my life a renewal as a Potawatomi. I went to my Elder and offered tobacco to him and the Elder in turned asked, “Why do you need to do or go on a fast?” We talked at length about my expectations, and that I needed a spiritual reset in my life to recharge from the daily grind of living.

Once the Elder agreed to take me on a fast, I had to go look for four people that would be dedicated to me, four people I would be willing to trust with my life, and finally someone who would be there through thick and thin.

A person being asked to be a sponsor is taking on the task of committing not only a minimum of four days of continued on page 17

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pokégnek bodéwadmik center of history & culture

Kë Wzhetomen Mizhatthwen

Let’s Make Regalia Sundays 12 - 5 p.m.

Center of History & Culture March 10 & 24 Necklaces Open to all Pokagon Band Tribal members and their families, along with members from other federally recognized tribes.

For more information and to register, please contact Amy Morseau, Culture Activities Coordinator, at AmyJo.Morseau@PokagonBand-nsn.gov. Registration is preferred but not required.

Food is provided, but bring a dish to pass if you wish.

M AR 2 0 2 4 P O K ÉG NÊ K YATHDA NAWA PAG E 9

Warming up at the Elders Winter Olympics Legislative Meeting Recap On Thursday, February 8 at the Legislative Meeting, Tribal Council approved amendments to the following tribal laws:

• Cannabis Regulatory Act, • Election Code, and • Per Capita Payment and Elders Support Benefit Program Payment Garnishment Code.

You may find the approved amendments here: Codes and Ordinances – Pokagon Band of Potawatomi (pokagonband-nsn.gov)

Ki gkéndan né DID YOU K N OW?

Western Culture celebrates New Years on January 1, however in Potawatomi Culture, our year doesn’t begin until later. Our new year begins around the time of sugarbushing, when the weather is changing, and the first appearance of the thunders brings in a new season as well as a new year..

Shop for clothing and accessories with the Pokagon Seal.

By Dean Orvis

The puck dropped and chaos ensued. Unexpected hustle, mild shoving, and vicious slapshots were all part of the intensity as each team competed for the extra points awarded to the winning team. Our elders still have that competitive fire! This good-natured fun was during the hockey game portion of our first-ever Elders Winter Olympics. Over thirty Pokagon Band elders participated in these winter-themed games and challenges held in the Family Activity Center.

The day started with hot chocolate, chili, and s’mores provided by the Social Services department. The contestants then built their best snowman before moving into some competitive sledding. With only a few sustained bumps, the competition began heating up as they moved into the hockey skill shot and then to the hockey game. The game ended in a 4-2 score, but the challengers were just getting warmed up.

After some precision snowball throwing the games heated up with a twoteam snowball fight! The strategy was a little questionable, but the fun was undeniable. After a brief cooldown and refreshments, the contestants grabbed a pole for some timed ice fishing. Everyone was able to catch something while the winning haul was ‘110 lbs’ of total fish caught!

The elders then completed the winter obstacle course by pushing a weighted sled 75 feet, strapping on a pair of snowshoes to trudge 90 feet, creating a snow angel, then sprinting to the finish line. Some great times were posted as each person strove for the first-place medal. The Olympic games ended with a modification of our traditional Snow Snake races. As with the previous events, there was a high level of friendly competition and a lot of laughter.

A first, second, or third place medal was awarded to all age group winners.

The 2024 Elders Winter Olympic Gold Medal winners were:

• Age 75+: Martha McConnell • Age 70-74: Cathy Ford • Age 65-79: Lois Wesaw

• Age 60-64: Felicia Wesaw • Age 55-59: Valerie Yindra

We are already looking forward to the next iteration of our Elders Winter Olympics. As one of our personal trainers, Sammy Linn, stated, “It was great seeing the competition, everyone engaged in the Olympics games, and the many smiles and laughs!” If you would like the opportunity to earn a medal, train for an event, or have any questions about our Wellness programs please contact us at PHS.Wellness@PokagonBand-nsn.gov.

There are weekly events currently being conducted for our elders, adults, and youth. We look forward to seeing you soon! continued on page 11

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pokégnek bodéwadmik center of history & culture + education

Gdedésêk

L I T T L E OT T E R S After School Program for Tribal Youth Ages 4-11 Tuesdays and Wednesdays January - May Pokagon Band Community Center 2:45–4:00 P.M. BUS DROP OFF 4:00–4:30 P.M. STUDENT DROP OFF 4:00–6:00 P.M. PROGRAMMING

For more information, call or text (269) 462-4296

Seasonal Teachings Ceremonies • Language • Literacy Time Outdoor Activities • Wellness A nutritional meal is available for all youth attending the program.

Youth must be signed in and out by people listed on release forms.

Program space is limited.

If your child is interested in attending, please RSVP here.

M AR 2 0 2 4 P O K ÉG NÊ K YAT H DA NAWA PAG E 1 1

Elders Winter Olympics continued from page nine

PAGE 12 B E A R M O O N MKO GIZES

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To Register, email Margaret.Long@PokagonBand-nsn.gov or Anthony.Tibbitts-Warren@PokagonBand-nsn.gov IN-PERSON AT THE ĖTHË BODWÉWADMIMWAT OFFICES: 58653 SINK ROAD, DOWAGIAC MI 49047 OR ONLINE VIA MICROSOFT TEAM

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On Tuesdays • 5:30 - 6:30 p.m.

MAR: 26 APR: 2, 9, 16, 23, 30* MAY: 21, 28* JUNE: 4

SEPT: 17, 24 OCT: 1, 8, 15, 22* NOV: 12, 19 DEC: 3

To register

Email Kyle.Malott@PokagonBand-nsn.gov.

*HYBRID CLASSES ARE AT THE ĖTHË BODWÉWADMIMWAT OFFICES: 58653 SINK ROAD, DOWAGIAC MI 49047

PAGE 14 B E A R M O O N MKO GIZES

pokégnek bodéwadmik kowabdanawa odë kė

POKAGON BAND

CITIZENS

Your Voice Matters

Bozho Pëgėgneniyêk!

We’re excited to announce the launch of the Pokagon Band Agricultural Survey, a crucial initiative to understand and support the agricultural activities within our community. Your participation is vital in shaping the future of this important sector of our Tribal Nation.

Why is this survey important?

Agriculture has always played a significant role in the Pokagon Band’s history and culture. From traditional practices passed down through generations to innovative modern farming techniques, our community’s connection to the land runs deep.

This survey will help us: Inform future programs and initiatives that support our agricultural community. Your insights will guide us in developing resources, providing technical assistance, and advocating for policies that benefit our farmers and the Pokagon Band as a whole.

Celebrate the diversity and resilience of Pokagon Band agriculture. We want to hear your stories, traditions, and successes! Sharing your experiences will create a valuable record of our agricultural heritage for future generations.

The survey is available online and takes approximately 10 minutes to complete.

All responses are anonymous and confidential. Together, we can build a thriving and sustainable agricultural future for the Pokégnek Bodéwadmik.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

We look forward to hearing your voice!

Please Scan the QR Code or Click the Link: Agricultural Initiative Survey

M AR 2 0 2 4 P O K ÉG NÊ K YAT H DA NAWA PAG E 1 5

Elder’s Spotlight: Michaelann Daugherty Gartner

By Ryan Rice

Many will recognize Michaelann Daugherty Gartner as a friendly face and a well-known member of the Pokagon community. Our elders play an essential part in keeping our traditions alive. I recently sat down with Michaelann, and she shared with me some stories from her past and present as an elder in our community today.

Michaelann was born to Mike and Rachel Daugherty on February 27, 1947. She is the granddaughter of Michael B. Williams and Cecelia Topash-Williams. Michaelann is very proud of her grandparents’ accomplishments in the tribe. Michael Williams was appointed secretary for the tribe at a very young age and was fluent in reading and writing English and Potawatomi. Cecelia was a doting mother, grandmother, and wife who supported Michael and was also an active member of our Tribal Council in the early days. Michaelann’s parents were married in 1945 after a whirlwind romance at a New Year’s Eve party.

Although Michael Daugherty was non-Native, he was very active in the community. He made it a point to learn Potawatomi from Michael B. Williams. He often traveled with him to various Potawatomi settlements. When looking back at her relationship with her parents and grandparents, Michaelann says, “I’ve always been pleased to have such wonderful, caring people in my life that have instilled in me how wonderful it is to be Potawatomi.”

Michaelann has many fond memories of her past, but one memory she holds dear to her heart took place on one of the saddest days of her life. At her father’s funeral, the Pokagon Band provided three drums for the services.

That gesture was a reminder of how well-respected and revered her parents were. To this day, Michaelann feels proud of remembering this important moment in her life.

Michaelann grew up and went to school in the Michiana area. She worked as a computer operator at Elkhart General Hospital for many years. She also worked for the Pokagon Tribe and sat on numerous committees.

In her younger years, Michaelann was quite a free spirit.

She said she was an avid hitchhiker, back when it was “safer,” according to Michaelann, and sometimes would hitchhike great distances. One of her longest hitchhiking forays took her over 228 miles from Ohio to East Lansing! In line with her free-spirited nature, Michaelann also likes to drive with the windows down and her music turned up loud.

When asked for advice from the younger generations, Michaelann says, “The best thing a person can do is travel and get experience in life. Learn how to do practical things, and always treat others with kindness. Be a good person.” These are wise words from a wonderful and caring person.

Apply Today for a Paid Summer College Internship Here's your chance to learn about tribal government operations, and get paid for it!

Application opens March 1!

Program Details:

• June 4 - August 2 (9 weeks) • Must be 18 years of age or older • Housing available upon request (restrictions apply) • Clothing, Gas, and Housing Stipends available Please check the website for more information.

PAGE 16 B E A R M O O N MKO GIZES

pokégnek bodéwadmik center of history & culture

Pokagon’s

Youth grouP Ages 12-20

Pokagon Community Center 3-6 p.m. EST Tuesdays & Wednesdays Snacks & Dinner provided

ToPics & agendA are youTh driven Learn about life skills, language, culture, & leadership skills

feb 6, 7, 13, 14, 20, 21, 27, 28 mAr 5, 6, 12, 13, 19, 20, 26, 27 aPr 2, 3, 9, 10, 16, 17, 23, 24, 29, 30 mAy 1, 7, 8, 14, 15, 21, 22 For more informaTion, pleAse cAll or texT (269) 462-4296

M AR 2 0 2 4 P O K ÉG NÊ K YAT H DA NAWA PAG E 1 7

Doing My Potawatomi Fast continued from page seven their lives for you but being there forever as one’s sponsor. You’re asking them to commit to chopping wood, building a small wigwam, building a sweat lodge, clearing an area, and committing to helping the Elder do his or her morning checkups on you, and always being there in time of need. Forever sponsor is a very big lifelong commitment. To this day, I still have a relationship with my first Fast sponsors from 45 years ago.

Once I had my four sponsors, they, the Conductor, and I had to agree on a date that everyone’s schedule could accommodate. We all planned to go in early spring. Once we had a date, we also scheduled a time to build a sweat lodge and make a clearing on top of a hill. I was very fortunate that a Lakota brother owned a ranch in northern Indiana and gave me permission to fast anywhere I chose to on his land.

The fasting site had beautiful rolling hills, forested, and many hardwood trees. The spot my sponsors and elder chose was the highest point on the property, and a great solitary site. We worked a couple of weekends clearing the hill which really was defining a circle. We took saplings and made a small wigwam, a fire pit in the center, and posted the four sacred colors and a color for the spirits. We brought saws and axes and chopped up enough wood to burn for the prayer fire to last four days minimum. The fire isn’t there to keep you warm, it’s there for prayer.

Second, we had to build a sweat lodge, samplings were abundant, and we joked while we pounded the holes into the ground and laid our tobacco into the lodge pole holes. I remember how cold it was that day, and how energic the cold country air seemed to refresh our bodies and minds. I still can see the vapor of everyone’s breath as we worked together in unison. We dug out the center lodge navel and pounded a cedar stake down into the center of the pit, so when the grandfathers came in, Mother Earth would know what was happening. The cedar stake acts like a conduit to everything under the earth and gives us strength during our suffering and acts as our umbilical cord, connecting everyone in the lodge to the earth.

The sweat lodge alter and pit was built, and a stake of cedar was pounded into its pit too. The pit once lit will be our fire of life, it will awaken the sleeping grandfather rocks, once awaken they come into the lodge and will help us suffer for our people and help us be reborn in spirit, cleanse our bodies, and open our mind. The wood was chopped and stacked so it could be ready upon our return. Each stone gathered was used for the lodge; and a tobacco offering was given.

Next there would have to be coordination from my spouse, friends, and invited people to a feast. Plus, one should dawn on new clothes when coming off the fast and is given four strawberries as first food. Sometimes we may have blueberry root tea to restart our digestive system. The new clothes consisted of a new ribbon shirt and new pipe bag. Four scared foods are the center of the feast and other guests will bring one of their dishes to share. All this, with the help of friends and relatives, makes one feel the support and how much people in our lives mean to us. Most importantly, I knew going into it would bring some type of direction to help me and loved ones with some real purpose in our Red-Road life. Not only was it helping me in a big way but helping all involved.

The day finally came. Our firekeeper lit the fire using flint, steel, and punk from the birch tree, the spark representing the gift of our grandfathers, “The Thunder Beings,” who sit in all cardinal directions. One spark to create the prayer fire which will awaken the grandfather stones and open the doorway to the eyes and ears of our ancestors to guide us, give us strength, and give us good feelings on the journey that my sponsors and I were about to embark on over the next four days.

Our Elder brought in seven Grandfathers, to represent the four directions, Grandmother Earth, Grandfather Sun, and one for all the stars in the sky. Before the second round, our Elder passed a 200-year-old pipe given to continued on page 19

PAGE 18 B E A R M O O N MKO GIZES

pokégnek bodéwadmik phs + dnr + early childhood education

YOU’RE INVITED TO OUR

Our Annual Baby Celebration to honor the newest members of our tribe

Families that have welcomed babies born between

March 1, 2023, and April 1, 2024, are asked to RSVP by Friday, April 12. Babies will receive recognition and a small gift, followed by a community feast in their honor.

Saturday, April 27, 11:00 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.

PHS Family Activity Center 58620 Sink Road,

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Dowgiac, MI 49047

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CELEBRATION BEGINS AT 11:00 A. M. LUNCH SERVED AT 12:00 P. M. WRAPPING CEREMONY AT 12:30 P. M.

Please Scan QR Code to Register

M AR 2 0 2 4 P O K ÉG NÊ K YAT H DA NAWA PAG E 1 9

Doing My Potawatomi Fast continued from page seventeen him around to everyone in the lodge and then had the doorkeeper/firekeeper finish the pipe. Second round four grandfathers were brought in representing the four different colors of humans, four parts of a plant, stem, root leaf, and fruit, and four directions. Third round, four more grandfathers entered, this round was to suffer for those that need healing not just physical healing but phycological, those that need support, and those who need love. Finally, four more grandfathers entered, to give us all strength and to protect our families during the next four days during the fast. The meaning is so much more than I can write in this story, but I hope everyone reading understands what is happening at this moment going into my fast.

The time had come, the sweat lodge was all done. As we all got redressed, our Elder called me over by the prayer fire, and asked me to lean in towards him. My Elder took a piece of charcoal from the pit and rubbed a black mark across the top of my forehead. This way the spirits and all creation that passes by my sacred circle while fasting will know that I’m fasting, and our ancestors as they pass by too will know that one is suffering for the people and them. After our Elder was done blackening my forehead, he handed me a shovel and said, “It’s all up to you now.

All you have to do is take a shovel full of coals and go up the hill and close the cedar circle behind you.” As I took a nice sized shovel of hot coals, I looked around at everyone and felt a moment of sadness that I was leaving them after such a journey of getting to where we were at that given moment. I could tell by the look on their faces of well wishes along with the red glow and shadows bouncing off their faces as they gave their last encouragement of support. As I turned and walked up the well-beaten path from weeks of walking up and down the hill preparing the fasting site, I took comfort knowing that we didn’t take any short cuts and didn’t rush or force anything while preparing for this moment.

I entered the fasting circle, laid a line of cedar to close the circle in. The cedar circle protects us from the spirits that attempt to fool one, to mislead them. The cedar acts like armor from unruly spirits. The only way they can come in is they or some ask if they can enter, if you wish them to enter, then I would have to decide to open the cedar line for passage or not. More than likely not ever. Even when my Elder came up in mornings, he didn’t ask to come in, but checked on me from outside the cedar circle. It’s very important to sit on the ground. The earth gets energized from the Thunders and the lightning, and when we sit on the ground during fasting our mother reenergizes us. Nowadays so many of us insulate ourselves from the earth with rubber shoes.

After I lit my fasting fire, my first duty was to pray, sing, and to stay awake as long as I could even if that meant staying up the next two to three days if possible. The only thing I will say about the next four days is that I experienced all four seasons of the year. I got everything plus more than I ever hoped for. It was a guide for me that made it possible for many great self-accomplishments in my life as well as my loved one’s lives. A good fast done in our old Potawatomi ways is great way to get vision and the potential to hit the reset button in one’s life.

I hope you may have gotten some insight to the way us Potawatomis do our fast in our area. I know times change, and traditions change, but I wanted to share how our tribe does fasting.

I hope all enjoyed reading about how I was taught to do fasting. There is so much more to the way we fast than just this short story. We have taken our kids and participated in taking many friends and family out on their fast in my lifetime, and everyone involved benefits from the experience. May the Creator of all things bless you as you walk the Red-Road in your life.

Igwien John P Warren

PAGE 20 B E A R M O O N MKO GIZES

pokégnek bodéwadmik health services

March is

Colorectal (Colon) Cancer AWAR E N ESS M O NTH Pokagon Health Services invites you to stop in during March to sign an ornament in honor of someone touched by Colon Cancer to help bring awareness to this disease. Ornaments will be displayed on a tree throughout March and April.

Did you know?

• The most effective way to reduce your risk of colorectal cancer is to get screened for colorectal cancer routinely, beginning at age 45.

• Colon cancer is the third most commonly diagnosed cancer in men and women combined in the U.S. • Colon cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in men and women combined in the U.S.

gyankobjegémen

stay connected

pokagon.com

M AR 2 0 2 4 P O K ÉG NÊ K YAT H DA NAWA PAG E 2 1

Colorectal Cancer Awareness Colorectal cancer is the second most common cancer among Native people, and the second leading cause of cancer death. There are usually no symptoms until it’s too late; however, regular screenings can detect polyps in the colon early before they turn into cancer.

Colon cancer is a disease in the large intestine and rectum. Most cases will begin as small noncancerous clumps of cells called ‘polyps.’ Getting screened can save lives by detecting precancerous growths in the early stages when they are easiest to treat and remove.

Most men and women should start screening at age 45 but can have it done earlier if symptoms are present. The three screening tests that most accurately identify colorectal cancer are the colonoscopy, flexible sigmoidoscopy, and the stool test. But remember, the best screening test is the one that gets done!

Make an appointment with your health care provider to talk about when screening is best for you. It may help save your life!

Get to know your Tribal Police Department Meet Mario RedLegs Q: What is your role at the Pokagon Tribal Police?

A: Chief of Police Q: How long have you worked for Pokagon Tribal Police?

A: Since May 2023 Q: How much police experience do you have?

A: 28 years Q: Are you a part of any special unit?

A: No Q: At what locations do you work?

A: Tribal Police Station in Dowagiac, and the South Bend substation on Fridays Q: Best memory working for Pokagon Tribal Police Department?

A: Walking around the pow wow and getting to meet so many people who were very positive about the officers and the work we do.

Q: What’s a fun fact about yourself?

A: Photography and riding a motorcycle are my escapes!

PAGE 22 B E A R M O O N MKO GIZES

pokégnek bodéwadmik pokagon health services

Be a

Hero DONATE Blood

M AR 7 MAY 23

PH

S 9:30 A A..M M.. T TO O 2:0 0 P P..M M..

JULY 18 19 SEPT 18 NOV 21

Sign up for Pokagon Health’s Blood Drive

DONATE.MICHIGAN.VERSITI.ORG or contact Elizabeth Leffler at (269) 462- 4406 or

ELIZABETH.LEFFLER @POKAGONBAND-NSN.GOV.

JAN 2024 POKÉGNÊ K YATHDANAWA PAG E 2 3

pokégnek bodéwadmik department of social services

Beginner’s Sewing Class Saturday, March 2 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Community Center

Join the Center of History & Culture and the Victim Services Program for a series of beginning sewing classes. Each class will build on skills learned in the previous class.

All materials are provided and there are a limited number of sewing machines available to borrow.

Mark Your Calendar for the following

Saturdays June 1 September 7 December 7

Registration is required to attend. Contact Casey Kasper-Welles at Casey.Kasper-Welles@PokagonBand-nsn.gov with questions or to register.

PAGE 24 CRAN E MO ON THETHA K G IZE S

TUESDAY MAR 5

. ' ezhwebek ^ MARCH EVENTS

THETHAK GIZES CRANE MOON As the snow starts to melt away, certain bird migrate back to the North, one of which has a huge migration which makes a stop in our area; the thethak Sandhill crane. This is why March is Thethak Gizes Crane Moon.

• Bodwéwadmimwen Potawatomi Language Class with Kevin Daugherty 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Elder’s Hall • Pokagon’s Youth Group for Ages 12 - 20 3:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.

Community Center • Gdedésêk-Little Otters After School Program 4:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.

Community Center WEDNESDAY MAR 6

SATURDAY MAR 2 • Beginner's Sewing Class 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Community Center MONDAY MAR 4 • Tribal Council Meeting 10:00 a.m.

Microsoft TEAMS • Walk with Officer Abby 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.

Family Activity Center • Wellbriety 4:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.

PHS Multi-Purpose Room • Pow Wow Club & Craft Night 5:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.

Community Center • Basic Language Class with Margaret & Anthony 6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. Ėthë Bodwéwadmimwat & Online

• Elder’s Council Meeting 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Microsoft TEAMS • Pokagon’s Youth Group for Ages 12 - 20 3:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.

Community Center • Gdedésêk-Little Otters After School Program 4:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.

Community Center • Winter Youth Soccer Clinic 6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

Family Activity Center THURSDAY MAR 7 • Blood Drive 9:30 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.

PHS Multi-Purpose Room • Elder’s Council Business Meeting 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

Community Center

• Open Gym Volleyball 6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

Family Activity Center SATURDAY MAR 9 • Citizen’s Meeting 10:00 a.m.

Community Center • Youth Council Meeting 12:00 p.m.

Community Center SUNDAY MAR 10 • Kë Wzhetomen Mizhatthwen Let’s Make Regalia 12:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Center of History & Culture MONDAY MAR 11 • Tribal Council Meeting 10:00 a.m.

Microsoft TEAMS • Walk with Officer Abby 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.

Family Activity Center • Wellbriety 4:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.

PHS Multi-Purpose Room • Pow Wow Club & Craft Night 5:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.

Community Center • Basic Language Class with Margaret & Anthony 6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. Ėthë Bodwéwadmimwat & Online

M AR 2 0 2 4 P O K ÉG NÊ K YAT H DA NAWA PAG E 2 5

TUESDAY MAR 12 • Bodwéwadmimwen Potawatomi Language Class with Kevin Daugherty 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Elder’s Hall • Pokagon’s Youth Group for Ages 12 - 20 3:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.

Community Center • Gdedésêk-Little Otters After School Program 4:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.

Community Center WEDNESDAY MAR 13 • Pokagon’s Youth Group for Ages 12 - 20 3:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.

Community Center • Gdedésêk-Little Otters After School Program 4:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.

Community Center • Winter Youth Soccer Clinic 6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

Family Activity Center THURSDAY MAR 15 • Open Gym Volleyball 6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

Family Activity Center SATURDAY MAR 16 • Annual Memebership Meeting 10:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Family Activity Center

MONDAY MAR 18 • Tribal Council Meeting 10:00 a.m.

Microsoft TEAMS • Walk with Officer Abby 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.

Family Activity Center • Wellbriety 4:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.

PHS Multi-Purpose Room • Pow Wow Club & Craft Night 5:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.

Community Center • Basic Language Class with Margaret & Anthony 6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. Ėthë Bodwéwadmimwat & Online TUESDAY MAR 19 • PALS – Play & Learn Social 10:00 a.m. - 11:30 p.m.

Family Activity Center • Bodwéwadmimwen Potawatomi Language Class with Kevin Daugherty 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Elder’s Hall • Pokagon’s Youth Group for Ages 12 - 20 3:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.

Community Center • Gdedésêk-Little Otters After School Program 4:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.

Community Center

WEDNESDAY MAR 20 • Elder’s Council Meeting 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Microsoft TEAMS • Pokagon’s Youth Group for Ages 12 - 20 3:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.

Community Center • Gdedésêk-Little Otters After School Program 4:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.

Community Center • Winter Youth Soccer Clinic 6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

Family Activity Center THURSDAY MAR 21 • Elder’s Social 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

Community Center • Open Gym Volleyball 6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

Family Activity Center SATURDAY MAR 23 • Food Sovereignty’s Carry-In Luncheon & Contest Featuring recipes from the Three Sisters 1:30 p.m.

Community Center SUNDAY MAR 24 • Kë Wzhetomen Mizhatthwen Let’s Make Regalia 12:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Center of History & Culture

Please turn to page 26

PAGE 26 CRAN E MO ON THETHA K G IZE S

Ėzhwébek continued from page twenty-five MONDAY MAR 25 • Tribal Council Meeting 10:00 a.m.

Microsoft TEAMS • Walk with Officer Abby 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.

Family Activity Center

• R.A.D. – Women's Self Defense Class 5:30 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.

PBTP Conference Room WEDNESDAY MAR 27 • Pokagon’s Youth Group for Ages 12 - 20 3:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.

Community Center

• Wellbriety 4:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.

PHS Multi-Purpose Room

• Gdedésêk-Little Otters After School Program 4:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.

Community Center

• Pow Wow Club & Craft Night 5:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.

Community Center

• Winter Youth Soccer Clinic 6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

Family Activity Center

• R.A.D. – Women's Self Defense Class 5:30 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.

PBTP Conference Room TUESDAY MAR 26 • Bodwéwadmimwen Potawatomi Language Class with Kevin Daugherty 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Elder’s Hall • Pokagon’s Youth Group for Ages 12 - 20 3:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.

Community Center • Gdedésêk-Little Otters After School Program 4:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.

Community Center • Advanced Language Class 5:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m.

Microsoft TEAMS

THURSDAY MAR 28 • Pride at the Tribe 5:00 a.m. - 6:30 p.m.

PHS MONDAY APR 1 • Tribal Council Meeting 10:00 a.m.

Microsoft TEAMS • Walk with Officer Abby 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.

Family Activity Center • Wellbriety 4:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.

PHS Multi-Purpose Room • Pow Wow Club & Craft Night 5:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.

Community Center • Basic Language Class with Margaret & Anthony 6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. Ėthë Bodwéwadmimwat & Online

First Chili & Soup Cook-Off a Tasty Success The amazing aroma of chilis and soups filled the Community Center at the first Chili & Soup Cook-Off, sponsored by Tribal Police.

On Friday, February 9, 14 different chilis and soups lined the table for guests to taste and then vote for their favorites.

Once all votes were tallied, three winners prevailed.

• 1st Place: Crystal Dorr • 2nd Place: Vanessa Wilmoth • 3rd Place: Kyle Wesaw You can find more photos at Current Events/Photo Galleries – Pokagon Band of Potawatomi (pokagonbandnsn.gov)

M AR 2 0 2 4 E L D E R’S LU NC H M E NU PAG E 2 7

Thethak Gizes MARCH

ngot gizhêk

nish gizhêk

aptë gizhêk

nyéw gizhêk

nyano gizhêk

MONDAY

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

Please do not arrive before 10:30 a.m. for the Business Meeting and Social Luncheon.

The Business Meeting and Social Luncheon are held at the Community Center.

Steak 5 Round & Gravy

6

4 Potato Soup Deli Meat Sandwich Salad Fruit

11Hamburger Soup Deli Meat Sandwich Salad Fruit Ham & 18Bean Soup Deli Meat Sandwich Salad Fruit

25 Tomato Soup Deli Meat Sandwich Salad Fruit

Vegetable Rolls Salad Fruit

12 Rustic Cod

Grilled Chicken Rice & Vegetables Salad Fruit

19 Chicken Tuscan

Rotini Vegetable Melody Salad Fruit

26Spaghetti with

Meat Sauce Broccoli Salad Fruit

Chicken Pot Pie Vegetables Salad Fruit

Chicken Salad 1Stuffed Tomato Bell Pepper Salad Salad Fruit

7

Chef’s Choice

BUSINESS MEETING

Beef & 13 Noodles

14 Chicken Stew

Vegetables Salad Fruit

Vegetable Melody Salad Fruit

Chili 20 With

Cornbread Turkey Sandwich Salad Fruit

27 Smoked Sausage Potatoes Green Beans Salad Fruit

8 Salad Bar

Chef’s 21 Choice

SOCIAL LUNCHEON

28 Sloppy Joes Potato Salad Baked Beans Salad Fruit

Italian 15Roast Beef

Sandwich Tortellini Salad Salad Fruit

22 Goulash

Vegetables Salad Fruit

29 Breaded Chicken

Sandwich Broccoli Salad Salad Fruit

PAGE 28 B E A R M O O N MKO GIZES

pokégnek bodéwadmik kowabdanawa odë kė

Gbëgothêk o gizes 96% SOLAR ECLIPSE JOIN US FOR A SOLAR ECLIPSE VIEWING EVENT View the solar eclipse with sunoculars, an eclipse viewscope, or try out fun solar eclipse experiments.

Monday, April 8, 2024 2 - 5 p.m.• Kowabdanawa odë kė Eclipse start time is at 1:53 p.m.

Maximum coverage expected at 3:09 p.m.

Scan the QR Code below to find out more about the solar eclipse Eclipse viewing glasses will be provided by Kowabdanawa odë kė Contact us if you would like your glasses for a home viewing.

JAN 2024 POKÉGNÊ K YATHDANAWA PAG E 2 9

pokégnek bodéwadmik pokagon health services

Your Flu & Covid Vaccine Protects Me My Flu & Covid Vaccine Protects You

Flu & COVID vaccines are available Monday - Friday during clinic hours. You can always request your vaccines at your regularly scheduled appointment, too.

Call (269) 782-4141 to schedule your vaccine today!

Vaccines are available for all Citizens, Native American households, & Pokagon Band employees and their household members.

Please bring any insurance information.

For any expansion patient that is uninsured, there will be a fee for service.

Questions? Contact Pokagon Health Services at (269) 782-4141.

PAGE 30 B E A R M O O N MKO GIZES

M AR 2 0 2 4 P O K ÉG NÊ K YAT H DA NAWA PAG E 3 1

Per Capita Important Dates text DEADLINE TO RECEIVE

CHECKS MAILED OUT ON

CHECK DATE DIRECT DEPOSITS IN ACCOUNTS

Friday, Mar. 15

Thursday, Mar. 28

Friday, Mar. 29

Monday, April 15

Monday, April 29

Tuesday, April 30

Monday, May 13

Thursday, May 30

Friday, May 31

Friday, June 14

Thursday, June 27

Friday, June 28

Monday, July 15

Tuesday, July 30

Wednesday, July 31

Thursday, Aug. 15

Thursday, Aug. 29

Friday, Aug. 30

Friday, Sept. 13

Thursday, Sept. 26

Friday, Sept. 27

Tuesday, Oct. 15

Wednesday, Oct. 30

Thursday, Oct. 31

Friday, Nov. 15

Tuesday, Nov. 26

Wednesday, Nov. 27

Friday, Dec. 13

Friday, Dec. 20

Monday, Dec. 23

CHANGES/UPDATES/ ADDITIONS

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.

• Scott Brewer • Joseph Trudeau II • Louie Jackson • Wanetia Barrick • Christopher White • Christopher Orvis • Alexandro Vega

• Joshua House • Rosemary Daisy • Evan DeLeon • Cody Springer • Jacob Pointon • Brandi Nelson

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.

Elder Snow Removal Application It's time to fill out and submit your Snow Removal application.

Watch for one in the mail, or use your mobile phone's camera to scan the QR Code.

You can also find a link to the application on the website at: www.PokagonBand-nsn.gov/Citizens/Elders-Services/

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, Mich. 49047 • Fax: (269) 782-1696 • Email: Social.Services@ PokagonBand-nsn.gov The Elder's 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.

• Brian Van Wesaw

PAGE 32 B E A R M O O N MKO GIZES

pokégnek bodéwadmik pokagon band tribal police

y b b A r e c i f f O h t i Walk w . 0 - 11 a.m.

Mondays 1

Family Activity Center (gym)

Come walk with Officer Abby around the track at the FAC. Enjoy the conversation and improve your health at the same time!

M AR 2 0 2 4 P O K ÉG NÊ K YAT H DA NAWA PAG E 3 3

Naganzéthêk ė zhëwébzëwat TR IBAL CO U NC IL H A PPE N I N G S

March Calendar of Events Check PokagonBand-nsn.gov for the meeting location and latest information. Join all meetings virtually via Microsoft Teams.

4

Tribal Council Special Session, 10 a.m.

5

Pokagon Gaming Authority, 10 a.m.

9

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

11 Tribal Council Special Session, 10 a.m.

12 Pokagon Gaming Authority, 10 a.m.

16 Annual Membership Meeting, Family Activity Center, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.

18 Tribal Council Special Session, 10 a.m.

19 Pokagon Gaming Authority, 10 a.m.

25 Tribal Council Special Session, 10 a.m.

Gėkyathêk ė zhëwébzëwat ELD ERS H A PPENI NG S

Join all meetings virtually via Microsoft Teams. Check PokagonBand-nsn.gov for the latest information.

Our Business Meetings begin at 11 a.m. at the Community Center.

Please mark your calendars for Thursday, March 7.

The Social Luncheon is Thursday, March 21, beginning at 11 a.m. at the Community Center.

We hope to see you there.

26 Pokagon Gaming Authority, 10 a.m.

Miktthéwiwnen April Calendar of Events Check PokagonBand-nsn.gov for the meeting location and latest information. Join all meetings virtually via Microsoft Teams.

1

Tribal Council Special Session, 10 a.m.

2

Pokagon Gaming Authority, 10 a.m.

8

Tribal Council Special Session, 10 a.m.

9

Pokagon Gaming Authority, 10 a.m.

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

15 Tribal Council Special Session, 10 a.m.

16 Pokagon Gaming Authority, 10 a.m.

22 Tribal Council Special Session, 10 a.m.

23 Pokagon Gaming Authority, 10 a.m.

22 Tribal Council Special Session, 10 a.m.

29 Pokagon Gaming Authority, 10 a.m.

30 Tribal Council Special Session, 10 a.m.

J OBS / POS I T I ONS

The following open positions are still available. Please scan the QR code to read position descriptions, qualifications, and details on how to apply.

• Election Board • Ethics Board • Waseya Board • 2024 Mawtheshnowen (Gathering) Committee • Tribal Art Committee • Gathering Pow Wow Committee • Salary Commission • Family Welfare Commission

PAGE 34 B E A R M O O N MKO GIZES

pokégnek bodéwadmik phs wellness center

ni

So

cc

c

Wi

th

n

r You e t

i l er C

February & March W e d n e s d ay s • 6 - 7 p . m .

P o k a g o n B a n d F a m i ly A c t i v i t y C e n t e r Open to Pokagon Band youth between 5-15 years old This is a great opportunity to motivate and encourage our youth into a healthy lifestyle while promoting teamwork and skill building.

Space i s l i m i t ed t o t h e fi r s t 2 0 pa r t i c i pa n t s .

Expectat i o n i s t o at t e n d at l eas t 9 0 % o f t h e t r a i n i n g s .

Register today by following the QR code.

For more information contact: PHS.Wellness@PokagonBand-nsn.gov

JAN 2024 POKÉGNÊ K YATHDANAWA PAG E 3 5

pokégnek bodéwadmik phs wellness center

NEW DAY & TIME!

Open Gym Volleyball at the Wellness Center

Thursdays , NOW THROUGH MARCH 28

6 - 7 p.m.

Open to All Ages Thursday volleyball is open to all Pokagon citizens/employees/ families interested in playing/learning volleyball.

Questions?

Visit the Wellness Center or email PHS.Wellness@PokagonBand-nsn.gov

PAGE 36 CRAN E MO ON THETHA K G IZE S

Naganzéthêk gdasëwnen T R I BA L CO U NCI L NU MBERS (888) 376-9988 toll free • (269) 782-6323 office

Victor Warren

Rebecca Richards

M EM B ER AT LA RGE

C H AIRWO MAN

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

Gary Morseau, Sr VIC E CH AI R

(269) 519-6497 Gary.Morseau@PokagonBand-nsn.gov

Alex Wesaw TR E ASU R E R

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

Sam Morseau SECR E TARY

(269) 845-9753 Victor.Warren@PokagonBand-nsn.gov

Barbara Ann Warren ELD ER’ S REP RES EN TATIVE

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

Heather Pauley EXECU TIVE S ECRETA RY

(269) 462-4203 desk • (269) 845-1384 cell Heather.Pauley@PokagonBand-nsn.gov

Gėkyathêk gdasëwnen ELD ERS NU MBERS

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

Elder’s Hall

Mark Parrish

Judy Winchester

ME MBER AT L ARG E

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

Mark Topash ME MBER AT L ARG E

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

Rhonda L. Keene ME MBER AT L ARG E

(269) 519-6503 Rhonda.Keene@PokagonBand-nsn.gov

John Morseau ME MBER AT L ARG E

John.Morseau@PokagonBand-nsn.gov

Andrew Bennett ME MBER AT L ARG E

(269) 845-9681 Andrew.Bennett@PokagonBand-nsn.gov

(800) 859-2717 • (269) 782-0765 office CH A IR

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

Patricia Williams VICE CH A IR

(269) 845-6792 Patricia.Williams@PokagonBand-nsn.gov

Judy Augusta S ECRETA RY

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

Steve Winchester TREA S U RER

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

Theresa McFall M EM B ER AT LA RGE

(269) 783-9380 Theresa.McFall@PokagonBand-nsn.gov

M AR 2 0 2 4 P O K ÉG NÊ K YAT H DA NAWA PAG E 3 7

Ėzh miktthéwiyak T H E WO R K T H AT WE D O Niganiwgëmëk AD MINI S T R AT I O N

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

Zhetthkéwen ėthë kenomagék C E NTER O F H I STO RY & C ULTUR E

59291 Indian Lake Road (269) 462-4325

Commodities

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

Gagdothêk COM MUN I C AT I ON S

58620 Sink Road (269) 782-8998

Shonya ėthë ndëwabdëmwat COM PL I AN C E & R E SOURC E D EVE LOP ME N T

58620 Sink Road (269) 782-8998

Chi Ishobak

27043 Potawatomi Trail (269) 783-4157

Ėthë kenomagék E D U C ATI ON

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

Elder’s Program

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

Ėthë dgwëbigazwat & Yayakwpi’géwgëmëk E L EC TI O N S

58620 Sink Road (269) 782-9475 office (888) 782-9475 toll free E N RO L L M E N T

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

Ėthë Bodwéwadmimwat L A N GUAGE

58653 Sink Road (269) 783-3138

Wéna’ikéthêk FAC I L I TI E S

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

Shonya ėthë kowabdëmwat FINANCE

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

Wigwam maktthéwithêk HO U S I N G & CO M M U N I TY D E V E LO P M E N T

57824 Potowatomi Trail (269) 783-0443 office (269) 783-0452 fax

Ėthë nizhokmagék

Niganiwgëmëk

H U M A N RES OU RCES

A D M INIS TRATI ON

Mnedoshkwedéwgëmëk

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

INFORM ATION TECH N OLO GY

Naganzéthêk

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

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

Kowabdanawa odë kė TH EY WATCH OVER TH IS LA ND

32142 Edwards Street (269) 782-9602 office

OF F ICE OF TRIBA L COU NCIL

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

Dbakwnëgéwgëmëk TRIBA L COU RT

(269) 782-1817 fax

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

Mno-Bmadsen

Mzhenkiwgëmëk

Mshkëkiwgëmëk

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

P OKAGON H EA LTH S ERVICES

Zagbëgon

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

EA RLY LEA RNING & D EVELOP M ENT ACA D EM Y

415 East Prairie Ronde Street (269) 783-4111

Ėthë nadmagék S O CIA L S ERVICES

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

TRIBA L P OLICE

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

PAGE 38 B E A R M O O N MKO GIZES

pokégnek bodéwadmik behavioral health

If you’re a teen, or you know a teen between 14-17 years old who is looking to make connections with kids of the same age, consider joining this group. Much of the group time is spent immersed in Coyote and Crow. Coyote and Crow is a role playing game (RPG) that takes place in a future science fiction setting where the Americas were never colonized

by Europeans, and the societies being explored are all extrapolated from Indigenous cultures.

“The kids love it,” expressed Stacy Young, Behavioral

Health Counselor and group facilitator. “Kids create their own

characters and make choices and decisions that may or may not work. RPGs provide a safe place for kids to explore, succeed, and sometimes fail. The game provides a foundation for some great peer-to-peer conversations.”

If you would like more information or are interested in the Teen Skills Group, please call the Behavioral Health department at (269) 783-2476 or email Stacy Young at Stacy.Young@PokagonBand-nsn.gov.

gyankobjegémen

stay connected

pokagon.com

JAN 2024 POKÉGNÊ K YATHDANAWA PAG E 3 9

pokégnek bodéwadmik kowabdanawa odë kė + center of history & culture + department of education

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Enjoy an Earth Day & Arbor Day Celebration with activities, education, giveaways, & a celebratory end of sugar season Feast.

Rodgers Lake Pavilion Saturday, april 20 10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE

PAID

Milford, IN Permit No. 2

The Supplemental Heating Program Serves Citizens Throughout the United States The Supplemental Heating Program provides a credit of $250 per eligible household to help with high energy costs. Social Services can offer the Supplemental Heating Program assistance to income-eligible Pokagon Band households anywhere in the United States. The Supplemental Heating Program is not limited to the ten-county service area.

The Department of Social Services are taking applications.

To apply, scan the QR code.

Do You Need Help Paying Your Winter Heating Bills?

Read Meeting Minutes Online or Have Them Mailed

The Social Services Department are accepting applications for LIHEAP. LIHEAP is designed to provide a one-time heating assistance payment to help with the high energy costs during the winter months and is available to citizens living within our service area; LaPorte, St. Joseph, Elkhart, Starke, Marshall, and Kosciusko Counties in Indiana; and Cass, Berrien, Allegan, and Van Buren Counties in Michigan.

Beginning in January 2024, minutes from the Tribal Council and Pokagon Gaming Authority meetings will be uploaded to the Citizen Portal.

We are doing this so you have access to the information in a more timely manner.

To apply, call or visit the Social Services Department.

Poka g on Band Mission

If you prefer to receive a hard copy of the minutes in the mail, please sign up by scanning the QR code or by visiting www.

PokagonBand.Formstack.com/ Forms MailMyMeetingMinutes

A sovereign nation who promotes our culture and strives to empower Pokagon families.