INSIDE
Page 4
Page 10
Page 9
Bois Forte
NETT LAKE, MINNESOTA - May 2016
VOL. 39 NO. 5
www.boisforte.com
Cathy Chavers elected Tribal Chair
Chosa and Morrison move on to June election for District I
On April 5, Bois Forte Band members elected
Cathy Chavers as their new Tribal Chair. Chavers
defeated incumbent Kevin Leecy in the Band’s
primary election, garnering 51.19% of the votes
compared to Leecy’s 37.12%. Under the Minnesota
Chippewa Tribe’s election ordinance, a candidate
who draws more than 50% of the vote in a primary
election automatically wins the seat, negating the
need for a general election. A third candidate,
Shane Drift, earned 11.69% of the vote.
“I am honored to have been elected as the new
Tribal Chairperson of the Bois Forte Band by our
tribal members. I look forward to the exciting days
that lie ahead and the future direction of the Band,”
said Chavers.
Chavers campaign initiatives include streaming
RTC meetings for Band member viewing,
establishing a five-member board of directors with
financial, gaming and management experience
to oversee Band-owned businesses, and creating
a job training program that combines online and
onsite components.
gaming nationwide. I
will move onto a new
chapter and a different
mission. I respect the
decision of the voters
in wanting to go in a
different direction.”
Chavers has worked for the Bois Forte Band for
three decades, primarily in health care. She also
served on the RTC as a District I Representative
from 2008-2012, choosing not to run for a second
term. Chavers owns a small family business in Orr
that process wild rice in the traditional native way.
District I candidates
move on to general
election
Tribal Chair-elect
Cathy Chavers
Bois Forte primary voters also sent two candidates
for District I Representative on to the June general
election: incumbent Karlene Chosa, who won
Outgoing Chairman Kevin Leecy said, “It has been 40.8% of the vote, and challenger Travis Morrison,
an honor to serve the people of Bois Forte alongside who drew 28%. The other candidates, Michael
Voter turnout was down 13.5% compared to the many outstanding leaders over the years. I’m very Connor and Stan Day, received 21.94% and 9.18%
2012 Primary, possibly due to heavy rain and proud we have built over $100 million in buildings of the vote respectively.
subsequent snow that began in the afternoon and and infrastructure that will stand the test of time, and
continued into the night.
I am proud to have protected Indian businesses and
Primary Election results initially Contested, now withdrawn
Bois Forte Tribal Chairman Kevin Leecy has
withdrawn the Notice of Contest that he filed
several days after the Band’s primary election
on April 5. Leecy had asked for an investigation
into several possible violations of the Minnesota
Chippewa Tribe’s Amended Election Ordinance
during the primary election for Tribal Chair.
A hearing on the matter had been scheduled by the
Bois Forte Reservation Contest Judge for April
20. However, on April 19, Leecy withdrew his
complaint.
Leecy’s primary allegations related to the absentee
balloting process. During the Contest, Leecy
requested access to information related to absentee
ballots– especially absentee ballots that he said
had been collected improperly – as well as any
documentation related to absentee ballot requests and they did not have enough information to proceed
their fulfillment. The Election Contest Judge denied with their case and voluntarily withdrew the appeal.
the request and found that the Election Ordinance
allows only limited access to election materials.
“Based on information I had received from multiple
sources, I had believed that there may have been
The Election Contest Judge instead appointed errors during the election process,” Leecy said.
MCT Executive Director Gary Frazer and Director “Because we were denied access to the names and
of Administration Brian Brunelle to review all election materials, we did not have a case. I have
election materials, matching requests for absentee chosen not to drag out this process.”
ballots with proof of those ballots. Frazer and
Brunelle found that, other than absentee ballots The election results for the April 5 primary will
that had arrived late and could not be counted, therefore stand as certified, and Cathy Chavers
most requests for absentee ballots had been met in will be sworn in as Tribal Chair in July.
a timely manner by certified mail.
The results of the primary for District I
Frazer and Brunelle submitted their report to the Representative were not Contested, and incumbent
Election Board, Leecy, and Leecy’s attorney at 2:30 Karlene Chosa will face off against Travis Morrison
on April 19. Leecy and his attorney determined that in June for that seat.
BOIS FORTE NEWS • 5344 Lakeshore Drive, Nett Lake, MN 55772 • Visit us! www.boisforte.com • MAY 2016
Page 2 • Bois Forte News • May 2016
Tribal, National & State News
First ever Tribal collaboration on
Trust Land Buy Back
In March, the Bureau of Indian Affairs placed Pe’ Sla, a sacred Lakota site in the Black Hills
of South Dakota, into trust. This was the first time that several tribes have collaborated to
buy back former Indian lands and have them placed in trust. Bois Forte Band member Phil
Brodeen, an attorney with the firm BlueDog, Paulson & Small, worked on the case.
Pe’ Sla means The Heart of Everything, and the high-mountain prairie holds a central place in
Lakota history, culture and spirituality. The site and the rest of the Black Hills were promised
to the Sioux Nation in an 1868 treaty, but the federal government later seized the land and
sold some parcels – including the ones at Pe’ Sla – to non-Indians.
The 2,022-acre site was purchased in 2012 for $9 million by four Sioux tribes: Shakopee
Mdewakanton, Crow Creek, Rosebud, and Standing Rock. Since then, the tribes have worked
with state and local interests on a number of issues including a law enforcement compact, a
right-of-way agreement, and cooperation to prevent invasive species, fight fires, and secure
ambulance service.
The tribes are collaborating on preserving the land for traditional ceremonies and restoring
native species; last spring, the first calves were born to buffalo that have been reintroduced
to Pe’ Sla.
Leech Lake to receive
$12 million for school
replacement
The Department of the Interior announced in April an
appropriation of $11.9 million to replace the Bug-O-NayGe-Shig High School in Bena. The funding came from a
seldom used Facility Component Replacement Program
that is directed to replace individual buildings that do not
meet basic educational system standards.
Not originally designed or constructed to house a high
school, the BIE-funded Bug-O-Nay-Ge-Shig School has
been highlighted in state and national media for incredibly
poor conditions including rotting floors, poor insulation
and broken heaters, rodent infestation and unsafe electrical
system. The funding came after intense lobbying of
Congress by tribal leaders and Minnesota’s congressional
delegation.
AmeriCorps VISTA positions
available serving Native communities
AmeriCorps VISTA is a national service program that allows adults of any age to serve
their communities. VISTA members serve full-time for one year helping nonprofits, tribes,
and government agencies create and improve programs that bring people out of poverty.
In exchange for their service, VISTA members receive benefits including training, valuable
career experience, a living stipend, a health care allowance, and an end-of-service educational
award (worth $5,775) or cash stipend ($1,500).
The organizations listed below are currently recruiting for candidates to start this summer. If you
have questions, email Kara Balcerzak at [email protected] or log onto my.americorps.gov.
American Indian Cancer Foundation: Communications VISTA
Join a dynamic, skilled organization to develop high-quality public health communication
resources to increase cancer awareness, visibility and education in American Indian
communities nationally.
American Indian Family Center: Development Specialist
Lead Volunteer Program and Marketing Initiatives while having a truly positive impact on
families in St. Paul. Utilize your talents and join our dynamic team to make a difference in
the community!
American Indian OIC: Adult Basic Education VISTA
Do you want to be a part of expanding our Adult Basic Education program? You could impact
lives and make a difference in our community by being a part of our team.
Dream of Wild Health: Evaluation & Communications Specialist
Dream of Wild Health restores health and well-being in the Native American community by
recovering knowledge of and access to healthy Indigenous foods, medicines and lifeways.
(cont. on page 3)
BOIS FORTE NEWS
MAY 2016
Page 3 • Bois Forte News • May 2016
RTC News
Thank you messages from the candidates
Boozhoo,
Chi Miigwech for your support and vote in the
primary election.
I am asking for your continued support and vote
in the upcoming General Election Tuesday, June
14, 2016.
Miigwech to the Candidates who selflessly
participated and contributed in the primaries.
Polls will be open in Nett Lake for voting on Saturday, June 4, 2016
from 8 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and Sunday, June 5, 2016 from 9:00 to 4:00
p.m. during the Saa Gii Ba Gaa Pow Wow.
Miigwech,
Karlene Chosa, incumbent Bois Forte District I Representative
Seller interest needed for
Land Buy-Back
The Bois Forte Reservation Tribal Council is continuing to prepare for
participation in the Cobell Buy-Back Program. It is anticipated that the
Department of the Interior will approve the Band’s request in late 2016. If
that becomes a reality, the Program will begin making offers to purchase in
2017.
Under the Buy-Back Program, Band members who own interests in
allotments on the Nett Lake Reservation will be able to sell those interests
to the Federal government. The Federal government will then hold the land
in trust for the Bois Forte Band.
This year, the Fond du Lac Band is a participant in the Program and has
identified approximately 80 Bois Forte members who own interests in lands
at Fond du Lac. Offers are now being made to those who have expressed an
interest in selling.
Fond du Lac’s program makes $7.8 million of federal money available to
buy interests. Although the amount that will be available at Bois Forte is not
yet known, Bois Forte officials are hopeful that it will be a similar amount.
A key to gaining approval of the Buy-Back at Bois Forte is for owners to
let the government know that they are interested in selling. “The greater the
interest, the more likely it is that we will be approved,” said Land/Leasing
Manager Tom Burr.
Interested sellers should contact Tom at 218-757-3261.
MAY 2016
Chi Miigwech to all who supported me in the
Primary Election.
I am figuring this campaign stuff out as I go. I
will keep a positive and clean campaign through
the General Election. Miigwech again to the other
two candidates for running clean campaigns,
remember we all had the same thing in mind. I
will stick to what I always do - stay positive, no
negativity, and attack no one. There are many
issues and I’d like to hear from you.
Miigwech again for your support. You may contact me by calling,
texting or emailing me (leave a message and I will get back to you).
Travis Morrison
Phone - cell # (218)780-5642;
Home (218)757-3314;
Email - [email protected]
More election coverage
in the June issue of the
Bois Forte News
(AmeriCorps cont. from page 2)
The AmeriCorps VSITA Communications and Evaluation Specialist will
strategically bolster Dream of Wild Health capacity to increase our impact
on the health of the Native American community using technology and
engagement.
MIGIZI Communications: Marketing and Communications VISTA
YOU WILL use and learn Social Media, Marketing and Communications
strategies to build capacity and TRANSFORM OUR ORGANIZATION into
an interactive and visible presence supporting American Indian youth.
Minneapolis American Indian Center: Program Specialist
Help build capacities for a Native American youth development program,
expanding opportunities for urban Native American Youth to strengthen and
develop healthy life skills and healthy choices.
Saint Paul Public Schools: Student Engagement Specialist
Engage Saint Paul schools, communities, and families to address education
inequities experienced by American Indian students and their families in St.
Paul and across Minnesota.
BOIS FORTE NEWS
Page 4 • Bois Forte News • May 2016
Reservation Community News
Josh Villebrun promoted to BIA Lieutenant
B.I.A. Officer Josh Villebrun has been promoted to Villebrun, who is also an Emergency Medical
be the Bureau of Indian Affairs Police Lieutenant Technician for the Tower Area Ambulance Service,
serving the Bois Forte Community.
said the best part of his job is helping out people
that he knows or is connected to in the community.
“I still respond to calls and do investigations, but But interacting with those same people can also be
now I supervise other officers and review their the hardest part.
reports and investigations,” he said. “I also ensure
that our police department is in compliance with “Part of being an officer is acting as though you’re
BIA policies.”
not related to anyone,” he said. “It’s very tough
when you have to enforce laws against family or
Lieutenant Villebrun – son of Carol and Tom friends of both yourself and the other officers that
Burr and grandson of Lorraine and the late Elmer you work with.”
Villebrun – grew up in Bemidji before moving to
Orr at the end of high school. He was interested in Villebrun said that drugs are the biggest issue
law enforcement and when he was posted at the facing law enforcement. “We don’t solve the
Bois Forte Tribal Police Department (PD) as part crimes – the community does,” he insisted. “If we
of the Band’s Summer Youth Program the interest are going to win the battle against drugs, we need
was cemented.
the community to help us, because often we are
called to investigate hours and days after the fact.
“I really enjoyed my Summer Youth time with the It’s essential that people in the community speak
PD. It was neat being around the officers and cars, out and help us stop the drug abuse.”
and hearing their stories,” he remembered.
He said the RTC has helped with new policy
After studying law enforcement at Hibbing changes and tougher laws, such as mandatory
Community College for a year, Villebrun was hired sentences and tougher sentences for using, dealing
by the Tribal Council and went through 16 weeks or manufacturing drugs within certain distances
of basic training. He is grateful the department of parks, Nett Lake School, and tribal community
“took a risk on me with only one year of school. centers. “We’ve also been getting help from a
It’s difficult to recruit officers to work in such a BIA special drug enforcement agent the past
remote area. They gave me a great opportunity, couple years: we give them the information we
and I’ve worked hard to reward their confidence.” have, and they work with us and the Boundary
Lt. Josh Villebrun on patrol in Vermilion.
Waters Drug and Violent Crime Task Force.”
Besides his duties as a police officer, Villebrun
works as the caretaker at the Band’s New Moon
Supportive Housing. But even when he is
caretaking, he is still a cop.
“If I can’t get to the ambulance before it leaves the
garage, I respond in my personal vehicle,” he said.
“When there is a call, I go.”
Assistance with emergencies, energy or
license plates available in Vermilion
Public Works
summer projects
Missy Fisher, Bois Forte’s Energy Assistance Coordinator and Registrar will be in Vermilion May
6 and 20 to assist Band members who want to obtain information or sign up for the Community
Services Block Grant (CSBG), the Minnesota Community Action Grant Programs (MCAG), or apply
for vehicle license plates.
Bois Forte Public Works has a busy summer
ahead with the following projects planned:
The Energy Assistance Program is done for the season, but Missy can answer questions about next
winter’s program and help with other grant programs. The goal of her CSBG/MCAG Programs
is to reduce poverty, revitalize low-income communities and empower low-income families and
individuals to become fully self-sufficient. She has answers to your questions and applications for
the Community Services Block Grant and the Minnesota Community Action Grant Programs that
assist Band members with emergency situations. These include, but are not limited to rent deposit
and eviction notices, car repairs, work related costs (such as uniforms, clothing for interviews) youth
activities, Elder activities and more.
For information on vehicle license plates, the CSBG, MCAG or Energy Assistance program,
contact Missy Fisher at 218-757-3261 Ext. 197, visit her office at the Nett Lake Government and
Community Services Center or at the Vermilion Community Center on May 6 and 20 or email her at
[email protected].
BOIS FORTE NEWS
• Five new street lights will be mounted on
existing electrical poles at Indian Point
• Hitchcock Road and Sugar Bush Road
will be paved in June or July. Weather
will influence the start date.
• Indian Point road will be chip sealed at the
same time as the Hitchcock and Sugar Bush
road projects
• Nett Lake School parking lot will be repaved
shortly after school is out for the year
• The Community Center and the EMT Office
parking lot will be repaved at same time as
the school parking lot
• The Nett Lake Ballfield will have a parking
lot installed
MAY 2016
Page 5 • Bois Forte News • May 2016
Meet Geraldine Deegan, the
New “Voice of Vermilion”
It’s not déjà vu – you’re still hearing
Geraldine answer the phone when you call
the Vermilion Community Center. Only now
that voice belongs to Geraldine Deegan,
granddaughter of Geraldine Hanks who
recently retired from being the community
center’s administrative assistant.
“Each day has some similar and some new
tasks,” Deegan said. “I usually begin my
day by checking emails and sending out
information that needs to be shared with
the community. Social media is very useful
The Voice of Vermilion,
for disseminating information. I handle
Geraldine Deegan.
paperwork and purchase orders, answer
questions, provide general support on a
daily basis, and of course I help when big events come up, like our
Lake Vermilion Pow Wow.”
Full Time Program Director – Nett Lake
Boys & Girls Clubs of the Northland
This position is responsible for developing, evaluating,
and implementing youth programming and assisting with
facility management. Applicant must be highly motivated
and passionate about working with youth. BA/BS and prior
youth experience preferred. Flexible schedule required.
Compensation based on experience, benefits included.
Apply online: www.bgcnorth.org.
Application Deadline: Until filled
She said her favorite part of the job is being involved with her
community. “I like knowing what’s going on and sharing opportunities
with people.”
Deegan had been an on-call substitute receptionist at the community
center since 2013. Before that, she worked at Fortune Bay Resort
Casino and the Y-Store. As a teen, she was part of the Band’s summer
youth program and worked with the Vermilion Boys & Girls Club.
Born in Ely and raised in Tower, Deegan is daughter of Christina
Dupree and proud of her “three dads” William Deegan, Joey Chosa,
and father-in-law, Gary Boshey.
When she is not working, Deegan likes to spend time with her family.
She and her partner Aidan Strong are the parents of 6-year-old Latise
Renee and 5-month-old Silas LeRoy. “Latise is currently a Lake
Vermilion Pow Wow Princess,” she said proudly. “Traditional ways
are important to me, and passing them onto my children.”
Deegan also volunteers for several community organizations. She
assists with Elders’ projects, serves on the Pow Wow and local
education committees, and helps put on fundraisers for those going
through difficult health issues or natural disasters.
“I often thought I couldn’t do things, but my grandma and family told
me, ‘You’re smart enough, you can make it happen,’” she said. “The
affirmation and support from others helps you see you can overcome
the obstacles you place on yourself. Don’t think you can’t do anything
in life – you can fulfill your dreams if you believe in yourself.”
MAY 2016
BOIS FORTE NEWS
Page 6 • Bois Forte News • May 2016
Urban Office
American Indian Month
May Events
May 1:
May 2:
May 6:
May 7:
May 7:
May 13:
May 18:
May 18:
May 19:
May 19:
May 19:
May 24:
May 25:
May 27:
May 21:
Grand Casino 19th Annual Pow Wow and Craft Fair
Mpls kick-off parade on Franklin Ave
All Nations Pow Wow @ South High
Pow Wow For Hope
Little Earth Mother’s Day Pow Wow
American Indian Family Center Open House
Minneapolis American Indian Center Open House
MN Dot Indian Month Indigenous ERG Open House
American Indian OIC, Founder’s Day and Career
Fair, 12 – 3
MCT Building Ice Cream Social & Dessert Bar BOIS FORTE HOSTING
Raving Native Date Night 7:30 pm
Bii Gii Win Open House
Ain Dah Yung Center Open House
Mde Maka Ska
Indian Health Board Open House
Everyone
Deserves a
Home
The American Indian
Community Development
Corporation (AICDC) has started
an American Indian Homeless
Hotline to provide community
members with information on
current homeless shelters and
other services. The Hotline
will be staffed during normal
business hours and there
will also be hours to meet with staff in person. The Hotline is also
conducting a survey to help AICDC and its partners in looking at
what services would best serve the community. If you are homeless
or know someone that is please call 612.719.3859.
May 6, June 3, July 8
and August 5.
BOIS FORTE NEWS
MAY 2016
Page 7 • Bois Forte News • May 2016
Elders
Ribbon skirts
Here in Onigamiising, the Indian Education program staff and
Parent Committee recently hosted get-togethers at which girls
and woman sewed ribbon skirts. My daughter, who is on the
Parent Committee, invited me to help. When the day arrived
it turned out that she needed to rest her eyes from some minor
eye surgery, and so I went by myself. This was fine: I knew
many of the women there and met some new people, too.
Happy May
Birthdays, Elders!
George Jr. Michelich
5-7
Joyce Kay Davis
5-13
Gary Adams
5-16
The skirt-sewing gathering began with a supper of pizza and
pop along with some socializing and visiting, and then a little
explanation about ribbon skirts: where they are worn and how
they are sewn. Edye Howes had brought in some of her own
skirts as examples of how to measure for size, ideas for placement Linda Grover helps sew together both
of ribbon, and sewing hints for stitching of the ribbon, the back cloth material and a multi-generational
seam, and the casing for the elastic waist.
cultural experience.
Julie Whiteman
5-17
Alma Lumbar
5-21
Vistoria Toutloff
5-24
Cecelia Gonier
5-25
Frances Isham
5-26
Jonie Whiteman
5-26
Then we were ready to go! Some of the women had brought their own sewing machines to the gathering;
my husband Tim drove down with mine, which we put to good work. Most of the skirts were made by
young teenage girls, some of whom had never sewed. They were fascinated with the colors and patterns
of the fabrics, with the choosing of ribbons to coordinate with the material, and the placement of the
ribbons on the skirts. Although the basic design of the skirt was pretty simple, there was quite a bit of
work to putting everything together; those of us with some sewing experience were happy to help, and
to share what we knew. The room became a very busy place: there were people working on all different
stages of sewing their skirts, admiring each other’s work, and chatting.
Ronald King
5-26
Raymond Toutloff
5-27
Rebecca Thompson
5-31
I worked closely with a young lady whose mother and grandmother I have known for some years. She
is a lovely girl and very excited that she would have a ribbon skirt. She chose a blue-green patterned
fabric and then ribbons, some wide and some narrow, in blue-green and shades of purple. How carefully
she measured and cut, and how carefully she placed the stripes, trying different sizes and different
arrangements of color and size. When we had stitched much of the skirt together she held it against
herself to see how it would look when we added the waist-casing and elastic. She and her mother were
both proud and shy when I told her how beautiful she looked. The next time we meet her skirt will be
finished. When she wears it she will remember the skirt-making gathering of women from their early
teens to elderhood; when I see her wearing it I will think of the fun we had and that it was an honor to
be part of continuing the ribbon skirt tradition to another generation.
A Minute with Millie
Sitting here, looking at all the green outside. Little splashes of yellow, brown and
white all over the lawn. Been a busy month getting my seeds planted in those little
seed cups made out of newspaper. Trying to recycle a lot more than I used to. Not that
I’m one of the radical “greenies” out there. Though tree hugger does come to mind.
Millie Holmes
Yeah, I know it was derogatory. However, I am a tree hugger. Or used to be. I
climbed in trees a lot when I was knee high to a grasshopper. Came home with
pitch on my clothes, naturally Mom didn’t like that one bit. I couldn’t understand
why. It was just fun to climb. Til I got stuck there one time.
I had climbed to the top, all the way to the swaying part. Thens when I got scared. Wouldn’t let go
of the trunk for nothing. Only way I got down was I finally got cold enough to chance it. The ground
never looked so good as that day. And it wasn’t green either, cause it was covered with pine needles,
red, orangey ones along with the brown leaves from the previous fall. Even getting home wasn’t the
hideNseek trek it usually was. Gladly suffered through Mom’s admonitions to change out of my clothes,
did I want to start washing my clothes, better not climb anymore tirade.
Yep. Methinks I’ll have to find me a tree to climb this year. With a nice soft landing spot.
MAY 2016
Happy Belated Birthday to Cherly Earley on
April 14 and Charlene Day Castro on April 15.
Support Wisdom Steps and
score some great deals!
The Wisdom Steps Special Promotions
Discount Card is a great way to support
American Indian Elder’s preventative health
programs and to save some money at tribal
casinos and golf courses. This year, the
card offers great discounts on many hotels,
restaurants, golf courses and casinos ten
different locations including Bois Forte’s
Fortune Bay.
The card is a great deal at just $20.00 per
card! Each card provides over $500 in
discounts. Fortune Bay Resort and Casino
offers $5 in slot play, one free bucket of
range balls, a buy one get one free buffet and
a hotel room discounted offer, to name just
one of the great deals offered on the card.
The discount card can be purchased on the
Wisdom Steps website at www.wisdomsteps.
org or by calling the Minnesota Chippewa
Tribe offices at 1-888-322-7688.
Through your purchase of this card, you
are helping to support the development of
preventive health programs for American
Indian Elders across Minnesota reservations
and urban communities.
BOIS FORTE NEWS
Page 8 • Bois Forte News • May 2016
Culture
Bois Forte and 1854 Treaty Authority
host youth netting clinic May 6
For the fifth year in a row, Bois Forte Band members and the 1854 Treaty Authority will host a netting
clinic for youth from 9 a.m. to noon on Friday, May 6. Last year ISD 2142 youth leader Rick Anderson,
Chemical Health specialist Terry Strong and the Nett Lake School joined the Vermilion staff in this fun and
educational cultural event. This year Terry is coordinating the entire event. Her number is 218-269-7785.
“Passing on the tradition is important,” said Bois Forte District II Representative Ray Toutloff, who
helps out by cooking a walleye lunch for the group. “We want the kids to exercise their entitlement to
responsibly use our resources and to experience an outdoor activity that is healthy and helps them feel
good about their culture and themselves.”
Students from area schools in ISD 2142 will listen to a blessing, take part in an offering, and learn about the
1854 Treaty. There will be a short course on canoe safety to review the importance of Personal Flotation
Devices (lifejackets) and how to avoid hypothermia. Participants will take part in removing netted catch
and witness a fillet demonstration. Everyone will have a chance to enjoy a fish fry at the end of the clinic.
Youth interested in participating should meet at the Bois Forte Vermilion Community Center at 9 a.m.
on Friday, May 6. In case of bad weather, the event will be rescheduled for Friday, May 13.
How well do you know 1854 Treaty
opportunities?
This true or false quiz from the 1854 Treaty Staff will be enlightening. Answers are on page 14.
1. You are allowed two (2) Lake Sturgeon (maximum size 45”), only along the named MN/Canadian
border lakes, catch and release all other Ceded Territory lakes?
2. While angling in open water, Band members may use six (6) lines on Lake Superior, but are limited
to two (2) hooks per line and must be within sight of all the lines?
3. Band members may sell to any person the pelt, claws, tails, teeth and/or the whole carcass of any
furbearing animal lawfully taken and registered?
4. Band members have 10 business days, after season closure, to take the separated pelts of bobcat,
fisher, marten and otter to an 1854 registration station?
5. Band members may harvest an unlimited amount of firewood, as long as they carry a valid 1854 ID
card, don’t fell any live trees, don’t harvest in an active logging area, and if selling this firewood, receive
a selling permit from the 1854 Office?
Sharon Day leads
seven day walk of
MNiSota River
A group of Indigenous women and supporters
gathered at Big Stone Lake in Ortonville, MN on
Friday, March 25 at 9 a.m. to begin a week-long
Water Walk along the course of the MNiSota
(Minnesota) River. The Walk concluded April
1 on Pike Island in Fort Snelling State Park at
the confluence of the MNiSota and Mississippi
Rivers.
“We will gather the river water at Big Stone
Lake and carry this water to the confluence of
the Mississippi River,” explained Bois Forte
enrollee and Elder Sharon Day. Day has led a
series of water walks over the years along the
Mississippi, the Ohio, St. Louis, Cuyahoga and
the James Rivers.
The MNiSota River (cloudy tinted waters to
the Dakota) was formed by glaciers thousands
of years ago. The river is of deep historic and
cultural significance to the Dakota and also
home today to many others. The river has been
cited as one of the most polluted rivers in the
state and nation. It is the largest tributary of
the Mississippi River and increases the volume
of the Mississippi’s flow by 57%, thereby
increasing the pollution of the Mississippi.
The purpose of the Water Walks is to draw
attention to the river’s contamination and at the
same time, honor the water as a living being.
“The Walks are extended ceremonies for the
water led by Indigenous peoples,” states Day.
“We believe the water has a spirit and is a living
entity that we, humans, have been gifted with to
love and cherish.”
6. Band members may gather an unlimited amount of birch bark, as long as they carry a valid 1854
ID, gather bark from live tress only between the 2nd Saturday of June – 3rd Sunday of July, not gather
within 50 feet of lakes/campsites/roads/maintained trails, and only sell the birch bark as part of a craft?
7. Band members may request a “Traditional Use Permit”, for special gathering purposes, by submitting an application for approval to the 1854 Executive Director?
8. A PFD (personal floatation device) is defined as a Coast Guard approved type I, II,III or V, to include
seat cushions or ‘throwables’, as acceptable PFD’s for water safety requirement?
9. DNR Conservation Officers are empowered to enforce the 1854 Code provisions and institute
proceedings in the 1854 Court or Bands’ Tribal Court?
10. 1854 cardholders shall not transport freshly caught fish exceeding the daily limit and transport
in such a manner that species and number of fish may be verified by a 1” square patch of skin/scale
attached to the fillet?
BOIS FORTE NEWS
For more information, visit NibiWalk.org
or contact Sharon Day at 651-325-8077 or
[email protected].
MAY 2016
Page 9 • Bois Forte News • May 2016
New Heritage Center exhibit features gifts to
and from Nett Lake School teacher
Elders in their late 70s and early 80s who attended Nett Lake School in the early 1940s may recall having Irene Kiel
for their teacher. Irene, now known as Mrs. Widmark, earned her degree at Bemidji State University and accepted
her first teaching job at Nett Lake School. Irene taught first through fourth grade from 1940-1944.
In 2014, Irene contacted the Bois Forte Heritage Center and expressed her desire to return to Bois Forte, some of
the beautiful hand-made gifts she had received from Nett Lake families during her years of service at the Nett Lake
School. Former and current Heritage Center Directors Rose Berens and Bev Miller traveled to North Branch to visit
Mrs. Widmark and collect the gifts she was sharing with Bois Forte.
The gifts have now been put on display as part of a new exhibit at the Heritage
Center and Cultural Museum on the grounds of Fortune Bay Resort Casino. Below
are photos of the intricately beaded
apron, leggings and moccasins that
are part of the collection. Also included are a painted hand drum, birch bark
basket, child’s doll and leather gloves.
The Heritage Center and Cultural Museum is open seven days a week from
10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Call 218-753-6017 for more information. Admission is free
for Band members.
MAY 2016
BOIS FORTE NEWS
Page 10 • Bois Forte News • May 2016
Youth & Education
Update from the ISD 707
Superintendent
As I help staff prepare for our last activities of the
school year, I was reflecting on the many great
experiences our students had this year. Most are
very educational, but some are about connections
that we have made, with ourselves and others, that
we will carry with us a lifetime.
Soon after the year began, we invited the sixth
graders from North Woods to join us in learning
more about how the “Ricing” process works. Several
of our community members helped make that a great
Superintendent and
Principal Steve Thomas success. My wife, who enjoys attending the events,
and I even tried our hand at drying the fresh rice by
pushing and pulling it across a long, flat metal box.
We ended the event with an invigorating and colorful Pow Wow!
While all events enrich and expand us, there is nothing more important than
our own Anishinabe culture right here in the school. During the year, we
have contests with each other and with other schools, as students compete
to prove their knowledge of the Anishinabe culture, history, and language.
We look forward to yet another contest coming up May 12 in Fond du Lac
– challenging fun!
We had an assembly, called Australian Animals, where students were
introduced to animals they will never see in our local woods, and another
presentation about Dr. Seuss and how this literary genius made reading so
much fun. Speaking of reading, February was reading appreciation month,
so we had a reading contest between all our classes to see which class could
read the most minutes! The students read over 30,000 minutes total. Each
class transferred their minutes into miles that would bring them to a vacation
destination of their choice within the 50 States area. They tracked their
progress on a map traveling to places like Disney World in Florida, Hawaii,
Arizona and the Wisconsin Dells to name a few. All classes had a celebration
party in full theme once they arrived at their vacation destination. Those
were a lot of minutes (miles)!
Speaking of assemblies, we had an anti-bullying group, called Reverse
Order, (a rock band from America’s Got Talent) which did an excellent
job of explaining how they were bullied as youngsters and how they dealt
with it – great stories and supportive role modeling! We’re going to end
the school year with another assembly about Robotics. The world is turning
more toward robots and drones to get jobs done and we want our students to
understand how they work and the role that people play in it.
Next month the Tribe will be helping again in the cultural education of our
youth by having a Netting Clinic, where sixth graders will be explained how
the Treaty of 1854 provided certain on-going fishing rights for the Tribe.
They will also be shown how to net, as well as have a fish fry for lunch. We
appreciate all the help and guidance we receive from the Tribe in educating
our youth throughout the year. The latest possibility is a plan to develop an
“Anishinabe app” for our students to use to assist in promoting the language.
We must do all we can to preserve and perpetuate the Anishinabe language.
I’m beginning work with the Anishinabe Academy in Minneapolis to partner
ideas with them.
(cont. on page 11)
BOIS FORTE NEWS
Congratulations to the Mountain Iron –Buhl Girls
High School Basketball Team that finished the
season 30-3 and took home the third place trophy
at the State High School Tournament. The team was
led by All Tournament Junior guard Chelsea Mason
(Tony and Billie Mason). Other Mountain IronBuhl athletes with Bois Forte connections include
Junior forward Austin Dagen (the late Carl and Kelly
Dagen), Sophomore forward Patia Hayes (John and
Rae Villebrun), and Savannah Parisian (Iris Isham),
who serves as one of the team Managers.
In Progress Director Kris Sorenson writes,
“Please give a strong shout out to Cecilia Martinez as her film
Amazing has been accepted into the Smithsonian’s 2016 Native
Cinema Showcase which will air this August in Santa Fe New
Mexico. Cecilia is so very talented and has many projects she
will be working on over the next couple of months. In the
meantime take a look at her piece Amazing on YouTube.”
2016 Summer Youth Program Update
Mii gwech to all of the youth that applied for the
2016 Summer Youth Program. The applications
submitted filed by the April 29 deadline are now
being processed. Near the end of May, applicants
will be contacted for their pre-employment drug
testing. The program is set to begin the second
week of June and will run for eight – ten weeks.
MAY 2016
Page 11 • Bois Forte News • May 2016
Heroin Users
• In 2011, 4.2 million Americans aged 12 or older had used heroin
at least once in their lives.
• The number of heroin users nearly doubled between 2005 and
2012, from 380,000 to 670,000.
• About 23% of people who use heroin become dependent on it.
Heroin and Brain Damage
• Heroin overdoses can suppress breathing and deprive
the brain of oxygen. This can create short- and long-term
psychological and neurological effects, including coma and
permanent brain damage.
• Studies have shown deterioration of the brain’s white
matter due to heroin use, which may affect the user’s ability
to make decisions, regulate behavior, and respond to stressful
situations.
Here is the first in a series of reasons you
may want to quit smoking or never start!
The best way to protect against the health risks of smoking
is never to start. For someone who does smoke, quitting
can make a big difference. Here is what happens when a
smoker quits:
After 20 minutes – A person’s heart rate drops.
After 2 weeks – The lungs begin to work better.
After 1 year – The risk of heart disease is half of a smoker.
After 5 years – The risk of stroke goes down. Between five
and fifteen years the risk of stroke is that of a nonsmoker.
After 10 years – The risk of lung and other cancers decrease.
After 15 years – The risk of heart disease is that of a
nonsmoker.
Before a pregnancy – Quitting before a pregnancy lowers
the risk of health problems for the mother and baby.
Saying no to smoking is
one of the best things you
can do to protect your
health and life!
MAY 2016
Mountain Iron-Buhl Junior Chelsea Mason was
named to the Class A All-Tournament Team at the
Girls State High School Basketball Tournament.
Honor your graduate
The Bois Forte News will continue to honor graduates at all
levels. If you or a loved one are graduating this year, send the
information to the newspaper so we can help you celebrate.
(See pg 16 for information on where to send your news).
Graduates of all levels from Head Start through Graduate
School, including Vocational Training are invited to be part
of the Salute to Graduates issue.
(Steve Thomas cont. from page 10)
In a few days, we will be having a Bear Safety presentation by the Vince
Shute people and we will be having our annual Maple Syrup Day, where
we invite North Woods sixth graders to join our sixth graders to have the
community educate our youth again on the process of producing syrup from
our many Maple trees.
The school year is filled with numerous events intended to educate our youth.
Not all of the education is provided in the classroom. As we approach the end
of the school year, I wish to thank the many people in the community who
help us perpetuate the culture in our youth. Your involvement is invaluable.
BOIS FORTE NEWS
Page 12 • Bois Forte News • May 2016
Tribal Gov’t News & Reports
Treating chemical dependency and mental health together
People with mental health disorders are more
likely to also have substance abuse issues than
those without mental health challenges. According
to the national Substance Abuse and Mental Health
Services Administration, the nearly eight million
Americans who have co-occurring mental health
and substance abuse disorders are best served by
integrated treatment – and that is exactly what
Bois Forte is striving to provide.
Diagnosis and treatment
“A mandatory part of a mental health diagnosis is
to do some type of screening to determine if there
is substance or gambling abuse,” said Behavioral
Health Supervisor Honore Lehtinen. “Mental Health
and CD (Chemical Dependecy) make referrals to
each other, and if we have a shared client, we do
case consultations to best meet that client’s needs.”
“Most people in CD have experienced trauma in
their life like death, violence, loss of loved one,
or assault,” said Chemical Dependency Supervisor
Pam Hughes. “These experience can be triggers for
mental health issues such as anxiety, depression,
or paranoia.”
Homelessness also comes into play, Hughes said,
because the homeless often have CD or mental
health issues, or are veterans with post-traumatic
stress disorder. “By having Mental Health and CD
working hand in hand, we can provide people with
the specialized services they need” – for example,
this occurs at the Band’s New Moon Supportive
Contacts for Chemical Dependency:
Housing location.
Pamela Hughes, Chemical Dependency/New
Moon Program Director
Katherine “Katy” Laitinen, CD Outreach Counselor
Sidney Adams, CD Outpatient Counselor
Terry Strong, Bois Forte Chemical Health Specialist
Cory Kovatovich, CD/MH Service Coordinator
Jessica Gustafson, Int’l Falls Chemical Health
Training
Specialist
Joint training for staff is also important, and is Tracie Chosa, New Moon Tenant Service
emphasized more now than in the past, with Bois Coordinator/Intake Worker
Mental Health and CD staff attending each other’s
Nett Lake CD Office: 218-757-3295
conferences and training sessions.
Vermilion CD Office: 218-753-2347
In fact, the type of collaboration seen at Bois New Moon Supportive Housing: 218-753-3131
Forte is now being encouraged across Minnesota
by state officials. Lehtinen attributes Bois Forte’s Contacts for Mental Health:
early adoption of this model to the Band’s small
size, tight-knit community, and understanding of Virgil Sohm, Adult Rehabilitative Mental Health
Services worker
historical trauma.
Wendy Drift, LGSW, mental health therapist
Honoré Lehtinen, MSW LICSW, mental health
Help is waiting
provider
Good health is important, whether you’re talking about
your heart, your lungs, or your brain. There is no shame Melissa Wright is the Hearth Connection
in seeking mental health or chemical dependency homeless program case manager. She does not
treatment. When someone is hurting, no matter the work specifically with mental health but Melissa
provides Adult Rehab Mental Health Services to
reason, the most important thing is getting help.
the clients on her Hearth Connection program.
For more information about Bois Forte’s mental
health and chemical dependency services or to get Nett Lake office: 218-757-3295
connected to specific services, contact any one of Nett Lake fax: 218-757-0109
Vermilion clinic: 218-753-2182
the following people.
Native tradition supports this type of collaboration,
added Mental Health worker Wendy Drift. “A unique
feature of a mental health assessment in native
communities is we try to do an assessment of the total
person – spiritual, physical, emotional and mental.”
Correction:
The hours for the Bois Forte Pharmacy were
incorrectly listed in the April Bois Forte News.
We apologize for any confusion caused by the error.
Bois Forte Pharmacy Hours
The Bois Forte Pharmacy is open
8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
and closed for lunch from 12:15 to 12:45 p.m.
Prescriptions need to be picked up by 4:00 p.m.
BOIS FORTE NEWS
MAY 2016
Page 13 • Bois Forte News • May 2016
Bois Forte Development Corp.
APPLY ONLINE FOR BFDC JOBS
The Bois Forte Development Corp is now accepting employment
applications online. Individuals who would like to work for Fortune
Bay Resort Casino, WELY, Tim Hortons, and the Y Store can now apply
for all current positions directly through the website fortunebay.
com or the Facebook page. Hiring for the Nett Lake store is not part
of this online application process. If you have trouble using either
site, contact Fortune Bay’s Recruiter Jenna Lehti at 218-753-7723
or [email protected].
On your way to the cabin and
before you hit the water,
stop into the Y-Store for all
your Bait and Tackle needs!
Before the Fishing Opener, stop in for
grab-and-go food, groceries, camping
supplies and something sweet to eat
from Tim Hortons.
The store is newly stocked
with all spring and summer
clothing, tackle and gifts.
MAY 2016
BOIS FORTE NEWS
Page 14 • Bois Forte News • May 2016
Community News & Announcements
Roger Leslie Wakemup
COMING THIS FALL!
Roger L. Wakemup, 59, Nett Lake, died on
Saturday, April 2, 2016.
Roger Leslie Wakemup
He was born in on March 6, 1957, to John and Mabel
(Soreyes) Wakemup Sr. He grew up in Nett Lake
and served with the U.S. Marine Corps. He lived in
Minneapolis for many years and moved back to Nett
Lake in 2012. He was a talented free hand sketch
artist, wrote short stories, and events of his life. He
also liked ricing and going to the casinos.
In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by one son, Roger
Wakemup Jr.; 3 brothers, Ralph, John Jr. and Frank Wakemup; and 3 sisters,
Marjorie Holmes, Vera Belt, and Susan Sullivan.
Roger is survived by two sons, Lawrence Wakemup and Roger Wakemup;
six daughters, Winona Wells, Charlotte Wakemup, Nicole Goodman,
Chasity Burnette, Deanna Wakemup, and Leslie Wakemup; his foster
parent, Charles Tristmann; one sister, Alice Wakemup; 13 Grandchildren,
Levi Wakemup, Leona Wells, Travis Wells Jr., Makya Wells, Starlette
Wakemup, Lailee and Dallas Lovejoy, Jazmine Goodwin, Luna Corrales,
Ezra Shaugobay, Tarren Lafriniere, Corey Larson Jr., and Tavion Larson;
along with numerous special extended family and friends.
SERVICES: Traditional Tribal Rites will be at 10:00 am Thursday, April
7th, at the Nett Lake Community Center, where visitation will begin after
5:00 pm Wednesday. The spiritual leader will be Kenneth Boney and the
assistant spiritual leader will be Gene Goodsky. The casket bearers will
be John Littlewolf, Aaron Villebrun, Daniel Wakemup, David Wakemup,
James Johnson, and Nolan Littlewolf. The honorary bearers will be all
those in attendance. Interment will be in the Nett Lake Cemetery.
Arrangements are with Mlaker Funeral Home in Cook. To sign the online
guestbook, or to leave a condolence for the family, please visit, www.
mlakerfuneralhome.com
Vermilion Early Head StartChild Care Program
• Enhances and supports early learning and provides
comprehensive and continuous services.
• High-quality, full-day, full-year child care for low-income
working families for infants & toddlers.
• Supports the development of infants and toddlers through
strong relationship-based experiences and prepares them
for the transition into our Vermilion Head Start program.
Please call 218-757-3265 for a pre-enrollment form.
We will be hiring 4 Early Head Start teachers this spring.
Upon hiring we will provide Child Development Associate
certificate training. Full-time, full-benefits.
Any questions?
Please contact Christine Lundemo at 218-757-3265.
Answers to true or false quiz on 1854 Treaty opportunities from page 8.
1. False; the minimum size is
45” (inches)
2. True
3. True
4. False; three (3) business days
after the close of the season
5. False; there is no selling of this
firewood
6. True
7. False; applications for
“Traditional Use Permits” are
submitted to the respective
Tribal Council
8. False; seat cushions or
throwables, are not PFD’s,
recognized by the 1854 code
9. True
10. True
Geraldine Polasky
Geraldine Frances Polasky,
69, of Greaney passed away
on Saturday, April 9, 2016 at
the Cook Hospital.
gardening, watching and feeding hummingbirds.
She was a great outdoorswoman who taught her
children about hunting, fishing and trapping. She
was previously married to Frank Polasky. Geraldine
was a surrogate grandmother to many children whom
Geraldine was born on she met and needed a little extra care. Geraldine was
November 12, 1946, in Nett an all around wonderful lady. She will be greatly
Lake the daughter of Gerald missed by her family and friends.
Geraldine Polasky
and Rosalie (Porter) Sheehy.
She grew up in Nett Lake and She is preceded in death by 2 brothers, John and
graduated from Orr High School. After graduation Thomas Sheehy; and 1 sister, Grace Isham.
she lived in Minneapolis for a short time, then
returned to Greaney where she lived nearly 50 Geraldine is survived by her partner and best friend
years. She was employed for many years as a of 22 years, Frank “Buzz” Pliml III. of Greaney; 2
sons, Curtis (Toni Saarikoski) of Greaney, and Jim
secretary for the Nett Lake School.
(Becky) Polasky of Virginia; 1 brother, William
Geraldine enjoyed quilting, picking berries, loved Sheehy of Chisholm; 3 sisters, Adeline (George)
BOIS FORTE NEWS
Wooster of Linden Grove, Darla Flett of Greaney
and Carla (Todd) Makinen of Hibbing, numerous
special grandchildren, along with nieces, nephews
cousins and friends.
SERVICES: Memorial services will be held at
11:00 am Saturday (April 23rd) at the Mlaker
Funeral Home in Cook, where a gathering of
family and friends will be held one hour prior to
the service. Fr. Drew Braun will be the officiant.
Dan Bogren will provide the music. The honorary
bearers will be Joe Porter, Tim Flett, Merle Olson,
Larry Bialke, Rick Skraba, and Neil Hanson. A
reception in honor of Geraldine will be held at
the Cook VFW following the service. To sign the
online guest book or to send a condolence to the
family go to: www.mlakerfuneralhome.com.
MAY 2016
Page 15 • Bois Forte News • May 2016
T’ea Drift, daughter of Carlos
Rivera and Deanna Drift will
graduate on May 27 from
Cloquet High School. T’ea, who
is on the B Honor Roll has been
taking college classes at Cloquet
and is hoping to begin college in
January 2017, possibly pursuing a
degree in Pharmacy.
Congratulations T’ea from your
proud Auntie Wendy Drift and
Gramma Mavis Drift.
May 19th, 2016
Happy 7th Birthday, Latise!
(A.K.A TC)
WE LOVE YOU!
Silas, Mom & Dad and the rest of the family
INTRODUCING
Newer Vehicle Loans for Qualified Buyers
up to $25,000!
MAY 2016
BOIS FORTE NEWS
Page 16 • Bois Forte News • May 2016
Bois Forte regularly sends out important
information in the mail. 1854 Treaty Info.,
community meeting notices and RTC
announcements are examples of items that are
regularly mailed. It is essential that we have
your correct mailing address so that you can
receive this information.
If you have moved recently, or are not receiving
regular mailings, please fill out the change of
address form below and mail to:
Angie King
Bois Forte Enrollment Coordinator
5344 Lake Shore Dr
Nett Lake MN 55772.
Please
Save the Date
Please note, you must check the box below
your signature if you want us to give your new
address to the Bois Forte News.
Name:
Address:
City/ State/ Zip:
Date of Birth:
Signature:___________________________
Date: __________
_____Yes, I would like this new address
shared with the Bois Forte News
Please send us your email address if you’d like
to begin receiving the Bois Forte News in your
email box:
The Bois Forte News
___________________________________
BOIS FORTE NEWS
The Bois Forte News (BFN) is published monthly by
the Bois Forte Band of Chippewa. The BFN encourages
submission of articles, community announcements and
photos. There is a $10 charge for personal announcements.
Contributions are subject to editing for grammar, length
and malicious/libelous content. BFN will attempt to
include all material submitted by Band members and
guests. Multiple contributions from the same source may
be excluded or rotated to future issues to insure equal
access to all. Paid ads are accepted.
Visit www.boisforte.com for rates and insertion order.
The BFN is distributed for free to Band members and is
available to others for $10 per year.
Deadline for
June issue:
MAY 9
Submit material to:
Bois Forte News
1101 Sibley Memorial Hwy. #507
Lilydale, MN 55118
651-260-2420 phone; 651-452-1640 fax
[email protected]
Tribal Council
Kevin W. Leecy
Chairman
David C. Morrison, Sr.
Secretary/Treasurer
Karlene Chosa
District I Representative
Brandon Benner
District I Representative
Ray Toutloff
District II Representative
MAY 2016