September.qxp 9/11/07 4:58 PM Page 1

The Newspaper of the Mille Lacs Band

September 2007 “The story as it’s told.” Volume 9 • Number 9 Successful 41st Annual Iskigamizigan Powwow By Sharon James, Mille Lacs • 2nd place: Leech Lake • Brad Kalk, Kalk Construction Powwow Committee Member Princess • David Granger, Double D The Mille Lacs Band of • 3rd place: Garrison Fire Construction Department Ojibwe's 41st Annual Traditional • Barb Benjamin-Robertson Powwow was held on August 17- • Best department float: • Carmen Weous-Behnkie 19. The event drew 915 dancers Community Development this year and approximately • Dan Oehrlein 3,000 people in attendance per Rez car • Dean Staples day. Saturday the rain was light • 1st place: Lesley Day • Gilda Burr enough to continue with the • 2nd place: Quint Anthony • Shawna Sam afternoon and evening grand Mille Lacs Messenger • 3rd place: Sharon entries, however the rain did get • Tina Merrill Pendegayosh

heavier after grand entry on • Walter Bauer family tesy of the

Sunday. our Horseshoe tournament • Powwow committee The powwow committee

volunteers Photo c would like to thank all the • 1st place: Joel Shaugobay & • Amik Smallwood & the Hundreds of dancers attended the contributors and the Mille Lacs Jeremy Smith 41st Annual Mille Lacs Band immersion camp staff Band employees, who are a • 2nd place: Clayton Benjamin Powwow. This gentleman • Candy Cupboard participates in the the inter-tribals, major factor in making our & Judy Virnig in which all dancers can take part. annual powwow a success. Chi • 3rd place: Mike Davis & • Chief Executive Office mii gwetch! Terrance Sam • Community Development Royalty • Most ringers 1st Place: Clayton • Corporate Commission Benjamin • Cultural Harvest Program • Sr. Brave: Lucas Long-Goetz • Most ringers 2nd Place: Travis • Department of Natural • Jr. Brave: Darius Barnes Smith Resources • Sr. Princess: Olivia Killspotted Contributor list • District I Representative • Jr. Princess: Trina Fast Horse The Mille Lacs Band would like • Elder Services General raffle to thank the following for their • Grand Casino Hinckley

generous contributions to the Mille Lacs Messenger • Prize 1 - ATV: Elizabeth Towle • Grand Casino Mille Lacs Area success of this year’s powwow: Relations & Grounds • Prize 2 - 52 weeks of bingo: • Anderson Brothers Department tesy of the

Elizabeth Towle our • Bernick's Distributing • Housing Authority • Prize 3 - patio set with grill: Photo c Nathan Shore • Crow Wing County Sheriff's • Ne-Ia-Shing Clinic Junior brave contests were held Department • Prize 4 - 2 mopeds with • Public Works during the Mille Lacs Powwow, in • Garrison Disposal which youth contestants were helmets: Rick Boyd • Tribal Police Department judged on dancing and a speech • Prize 5 - quilt: Demitre Wind • Goff & Howard, Inc • The Workforce Center they had to give before the crowd. • Prize 6 - quilt: Kegan Mueller • Grand National Golf Club We have attempted to list • Grand Rapids Fire Center everyone, but if we have missed Parade anyone, we apologize. • Practical Benefits * 1st place: Ladies Auxiliary

MILLE LACS BAND OF OJIBWE PRESORTED 43408 Oodena Drive Onamia, MN 56359 FIRST-CLASS MAIL U.S. POSTAGE PAID Printed on 100% recycled paper BRAINERD, MN PERMIT NO. 265 September.qxp 9/11/07 4:58 PM Page 2

Game On agency to provide a better product for the ad dollars the casino is spending. My mentor said I could do that and more. So while I was the advertising League of Minnesota Human manager at the casino I was also preparing to jump out and Rights Commissions to Focus start my first business.” Annual Conference on That business became Red Circle Agency, one of the world’s American Indian Issues only Native American-owned Recent incidents involving Chairman of the Northwest advertising agencies. Founded Indian Fisheries Commission in 2001, Red Circle specializes disrespect shown toward Billy Frank, Jr. and Travis exclusively in American Indian American Indians prompted the Gaming marketing and they League of Minnesota Human McAdam from the Montana work with a dozen casinos all Rights Commissions to focus its Human Rights Network will Chad Germann around the country. annual conference on also speak. The following article appeared Now, here’s the upstart part. American Indian rights and Other speakers will include: in the September 2007, issue of The Potawatomi Community of human relations challenges. • Mille Lacs Band Chief Minnesota Business. It is being Wisconsin, operators of some The League will host its 36th Executive Melanie Benjamin reprinted with their permission. very successful casinos in annual conference – titled This entrepreneur rolled the Milwaukee and other places, • Commissioner Velma Korbel “Human Rights, Civil Rights, dice when he left a seemingly recently said they wanted to of the Minnesota Treaty Rights: Minnesota secure teaching track for the create a partnership with Department of Human advertising business, but the bet Challenges” – on Saturday, Germann and the Potawatomi Rights seems to be paying off big. Business Development September 29, from 8:30 a.m. “What’s your Grand Casino Corporation to create a new full- to 4:30 p.m. at the Grand • Larry Clark, League of story?” Before coming up with service, minority-owned Casino Mille Lacs Events & Minnesota Human Rights that ad campaign tagline Chad advertising firm. The new Convention Center. Commissions Board Member Germann thought his story agency, Howl Fire, with offices in The League’s annual • Jackie Fraedrich, League of would involve education, not Minneapolis and Milwaukee, will conference will be an Minnesota Human Rights entrepreneurship. After all, his support the PBDC family of dad told him having summers companies and target Fortune opportunity for people to learn Commissions Board Member off among other things was a 1000 business to business about human rights concerns • Marion Helland, League of pretty good deal. With a pair of assignments. in Minnesota and how the Minnesota Human Rights BA’s in hand, a Master’s in “Obviously, we are not going League is working to address Commissions Board Member language and literature on the to get the mass media account these challenges. Speakers will • Mary Jo Brooks Hunter, way, and a Ph.D. in his future, for a Target or a Best Buy, but discuss topics such as Tribal Appellate Judge for Germann did spend three fateful our goal is to identify large American Indians’ role in the summers interning in the companies that have dollars set the Winnebago Tribe of civil rights movement, racial marketing department of Grand aside to work with Native Nebraska disparity in education, the anti- Casino. There some light bulbs American-owned businesses or • Tadd Johnson, Special started going off though he did minority-owned businesses and Indian movement in the United Counsel for Government have some help finding the “on” go after specific projects,” said a States, and race and racism switch. laid back, but very confident implications in federal Indian Affairs for the Mille Lacs “My tribe identifies members Germann in his hip downtown policy. Band who have potential – like me – office environs. “I think the “The League was prompted • Ralonda Mason, St. Cloud and then they go out and put squad we’re putting together is to focus this year’s conference Legal Services Attorney together a program for you,” suited for getting those small on American Indian issues after said Germann, a member of the pieces done. We’ll get in the • Irene Opsahl, Minneapolis learning of the incidents in the Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe. “I side door, prove our worth and Legal Aid Society Attorney said I would like to start an ad competence, and then grow Mille Lacs area,” said Evelyn The League of Minnesota with the business.” Staus, League of Minnesota Human Rights Commissions is Human Rights Commissions a coalition of public human President. “We are aiming to rights commissions in Updates from bring awareness to the communities throughout Ne-Ia-Shing Clinic challenges American Indians Minnesota; however, the face everyday.” League itself is a private Extended hours the upper and lower schools. It The keynote speaker will be organization. is mandatory to immunize your Morris Dees, co-founder and Effective September 10, 2007, For more information about children by September 28 in the clinics in all three districts Chief Trial Counsel of the order to not interrupt school the conference or to register, have extended their hours. Southern Poverty Law Center, a attendance. e-mail Evelyn Staus at nonprofit civil rights • Ne-Ia-Shing Clinic: [email protected] or Marion 8:20 a.m.-4:20 p.m. – Benefit coordinator organization that works to sue Helland at Clinic appointments (Excludes hate groups and educate Every Monday from 10 a.m.-2 [email protected]. MLHS providers and people on tolerance. Along p.m. the benefit coordinator will Or, call either of them at Podiatrist) with Dees, U.S. Representative be available at the Ne-Ia-Shing 763/535-1051 or visit • Aazhoomog: 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Clinic to assist patients with Keith Ellison plans to speak at www.hrusa.org/league. (Excludes Diabetes Clinic) health insurance applications. the event if his schedule Registration for the event is • East Lake: 9 a.m.-4 p.m. If you have any questions, allows. Civil rights activist and $100. (Excludes Diabetes Clinic) please contact Vanessa Weyaus at 320/532-4163. Immunization clinics Immunization clinics will be held September 10-14, all day at

2• Ojibwe Inaajimowin • September 2007 September.qxp 9/11/07 4:58 PM Page 3

Band Member Teaches Nay Ah Shing Updates About Health Care through Best year yet at Nay Ah Shing Personal Stories By Eric North, Nay Ah Shing Schools Principal from six months ago. The report Students boarded buses and were welcomed back by teachers at Nay stated “interval worsening” since Ah Shing Schools for a successful first day of classes. Academics, his last study, with spread of cultural programs, and after-school activities are some of the reasons cancer to multiple areas of his why students attend our great school. liver, into his abdominal wall “We were glad to see so many students returning to our school,” said muscles, and into the mesenteric Jason Long, Nay Ah Shing High School Physical Education Teacher. area (where the intestines attach With a new math curriculum and an improved reading and English inside). His cancer was a GIST program, Nay Ah Shing Schools will continue to provide superior academic services to our students. Staffs at both schools are ready for (gastrointestinal stromal tumor), the best year yet and are looking forward to working with students. If which is a rare cancer. It can you would like to register your child, please contact us at either be benign (not bad) or 320/532-4695. malignant (very bad). Unfortunately, his was a very bad Students start year off running… and swimming… cancer and spreading rapidly. and biking Arne Vainio He accepted this without To help people better complaint. Through all of this, he understand health care, Band was smiling. member Arne Vainio, a doctor There was a social worker with on the Fond du Lac Sylvester. I asked her, “is he Reservation, is sharing his always like this?” personal stories in a series of “Short of breath?” articles that will run in News “No. Is he always this From Indian Country. positive?” “My goal is to address “Always.” complicated medical issues in a way that makes sense, and to I knew as soon as I met him

empower people to take part that Sylvester had a gift. Not k Anderson many could look death in the eye Ric in their own health care,” said Nay Ah Shing students participate in the first annual Maiingan Triathlon. From left Arne. “This will include what I with his grace and dignity. I to right: Assistant Coach Jason Long, Courtney Boyd, LaShelle Boyd, Coach Michelle see as a physician and how asked him if he would consent to Reed, and Randy Sam. that relates to and touches me. go to the medical school with me, and if I could set up a day so A 100-yard swim, 12-mile bike ride, and 1.5-mile run helped Nay Ah Even though I’m a physician, Shing students get a head start on the school year as they participated medical students could meet him my story is not all that different in the first annual Maiingan Triathlon in August. and learn from him – not just from stories I see every day. “They have been training really hard, four days a week, four hours a from a cancer standpoint, but My family history is the family day, and sometimes in 90-degree weather,” said Michelle Reed, who from a spiritual standpoint and a history of Native families coached the students with Jason Long. lesson in the beauty of life. He everywhere.” Many students trained throughout the summer and three successfully agreed immediately. Below is an excerpt from completed their goal of finishing their first triathlon. Randy Sam Arne’s first article: I had talked with the social finished with a time of 1:27:58, Courtney Boyd had a time of 1:19:34, worker the week after my only Sometimes teaching comes and LaShelle Boyd set a personal record time of 1:14:34. All three visit with Sylvester. She told me finished to cheers and shouts of “Wawiib, wawiib,” as they crossed the when you aren’t looking for it or that on the drive home he was so finish line. They were all winners in the eyes of their family and friends. even have the time to think about excited to be going to the medical it. This past month, one of my school. “I’m going to teach Training for parents and families at Nay Ah Shing partners was off and I was seeing doctors! I always worried that I one of her patients in her absence. By Mary Simon, Nay Ah Shing Schools Dean of Students would be forgotten, but now I get I was behind and rushed (as to have people remember who I Nay Ah Shing is hosting training sessions in special education for usual) when I stepped into the was.” parents, guardians and families. All families from the local and exam room and introduced As I write this, Sylvester is in surrounding areas are welcome and transportation is provided to and myself. I had gone over his from Nay Ah Shing Schools. records enough to know he had the hospital and is not expected to survive the night. I wanted to The workshops will be offered through the Parent Advocacy metastatic (spreading) cancer. Coalition for Educational Rights (PACER) Center, specifically through the thank him for teaching me the I expected to see a man American Indian Parent Network. The training sessions will begin with beauty of life and making me desperately holding out for a cure dinner at 5 p.m. and will end at approximately 8 p.m. Child care will be realize the things we take for and a miracle. Instead, I met a provided in the school library by the Nay Ah Shing Student Council and granted won’t always be there. I smiling man who welcomed me Nay Ah Shing American Indian Business Leaders chapters. wanted him to know that he will into the room. His eyes were The first training was held on Tuesday, September 11. Presenters be remembered. Always. bright and clear; his smile was Michelle Ulfers, parent advocate and trainer, and Lucy Favorite, sincere and real. In spite of that, Sylvester LaDuke. February 14, advocate and American Indian Project Coordinator, discussed parent he was pale, gaunt, and clearly 1942 - April 9, 2007. rights and procedural safeguards/due process. Due process procedures refer to the rights and procedural safeguards afforded to parents and sick. Thank you, Sylvester. students with disabilities under state and federal law. Parents of To view Arne’s entire article, He had no illusions about his students with disabilities must be provided the opportunity to be visit cancer and his prognosis. I went involved in all aspects of developing, planning, acquiring and http://indiancountrynews.net through his records again in the implementing special education and related services. and click on the food and room and found a CT scan report The next scheduled training date and topic is on Tuesday, October 9 health section. – Positive behavioral intervention/managing difficult behavior. If you have questions or need transportation and/or child care to attend the trainings, please call Eric North at 320/532-4695, ext. 2104 or me at 320/532-4695, ext. 2126.

September 2007 • Ojibwe Inaajimowin • 3 September.qxp 9/11/07 4:58 PM Page 4

Ask Melanie Safe ATV Riding Means By Chief Executive Melanie day. OMB processes bonus Knowing the Laws Benjamin payments on the first Thursday of each month so as not to conflict All-terrain vehicle (ATV) ATV riders are allowed to Why aren’t bonus with the weekends or the Band’s riding is an enjoyable drive on: payments received on weekly Friday payroll processing recreational activity, but it is • Private land – must have the schedule, as well as to provide important to obey the laws at landowners’ permission the first day of each consistency for Band members all times. It is especially crucial • Frozen public waters – the month? receiving monthly payments. for parents to teach their waters must have legal Checks can be physically picked children the laws, so that they Several Band members have access and not be restricted up on the first Thursday. Those are safe and respectful of the asked me why they don’t receive by state law or local not picked up are mailed via environment. Beginning this their bonus payments on the first ordinances certified mail on Fridays. Direct year, it is now law for all ATV day of the month. Many people deposit is also available free of drivers and passengers under • Public land and trails – must have bills that are due on the first charge. the age of 18 to wear a helmet be designated to allow ATVs of each month, such as rent, Many creditors will allow you – an important safety measure For more information on mortgage payments, and to change the date your payment that riders of all ages should ATV trails and maps, visit automobile payments. If it were is due if you call and ask. I follow. If children are riding www.findthetrails.com. their choice, they would prefer to would encourage Band members without a helmet or receive their bonus payments on who depend on their bonus disregarding the laws, they will Mille Lacs Band noise the first of the month in order to payments to help with bills to be stopped by tribal police. apply this money toward their ordinance contact their creditors and see if a These laws are in place not to bills. due date change is possible. I penalize our children, but to The Band has a Public The Band’s schedule for bonus also encourage you to watch the protect them from harm. Nuisance Ordinance in place to payments is the responsibility of calendar for the first Thursday of Please help protect your child help control loud noises in the Office of Management and each month, and plan your by making sure they know the communities and to ensure Budget (OMB), which is in the finances around that schedule. laws and are following them. that people feel safe and Legislative Branch of government. secure in their neighborhoods. The following are other laws OMB issues bonus payments and Tribal police officers have the Do you have a for youth ATV drivers and is also responsible for issuing authority to enforce the passengers: Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe question? ordinance on all Band lands, government payroll each Friday. If you have a question that • Under 10 years old – can including loud noises resulting only operate ATVs on private The first day of the month you would like me to answer, from ATV riding at night. It is land with permission from could fall on any day of the please fax it to 320/532-4209 or important for parents to teach the owner week, including a weekend, mail it to: their children about the noise depending on the month. Chief Executive’s Office • Ages 10 and 11 – may ordinance and to make sure According to OMB, they need to Attn: Ask Melanie operate an ATV on public any ATV drivers are respectful make sure that bonus payments lands and frozen waters as of neighbors. (Band Statute 43408 Oodena Drive are not issued on a Friday payroll long as they are Title 24, Chapter 1, Subchapter Onamia, MN 56359 accompanied by a parent or III, Section 302.) guardian Other general ATV Lowering High Blood • Ages 12 through 15 – allowed to operate an ATV laws Cholesterol Important for on public lands and frozen • All ATV drivers must stop if waters with a legal adult, as they are signaled by a law Good Health long as they have a safety enforcement officer. certificate (available through By Rob Thompson, Safety/Risk once unaware of their blood the Minnesota Department • Drivers must not operate an Manager cholesterol level now know their of Natural Resources) ATV under the influence of level. drugs or alcohol. September is recognized as • Under the age of 16 – must Today, the program continues National Cholesterol Education have permission from a • ATVs may not be driven on aiming to reduce coronary heart Awareness Month. The goal of parent or guardian to drive property in which the disease among the public. To this observance is to increase the an ATV owners have told riders reach this goal, the program has awareness and understanding verbally, in writing, or by established objectives for • Ages 16 and 17 – allowed to about high blood cholesterol as posted signs not to trespass patients and the public: drive unaccompanied on a risk factor for coronary heart on their land. public lands and frozen disease and about the benefits • Increase awareness that high waters, as long as they have • ATV riders must not drive of lowering cholesterol. blood cholesterol can cause a safety certificate recklessly, cause damage to coronary heart disease The National Heart, Lung and the environment, or destroy • Under the age of 18 – not Blood Institute launched the • Educate people about the property. allowed to carry a passenger National Cholesterol Education importance of a good diet, • All ATVs must be registered Program in 1985 to educate the especially in lowering high • Under the age of 18 – must – including those used only public on reducing illness and blood cholesterol wear a seatbelt if one is on private property – unless death from coronary heart provided by the ATV • Increase the number of the ATV is more than 25 disease by lowering cholesterol. manufacturer people who have had their years old. To register your Since the start of this educational blood cholesterol levels ATV, call the Motor Vehicle program, strides have been Know where you can checked Licenses Department at made in the reduction of high ride 320/532-7498. blood cholesterol in the U.S. • Encourage people with high This progress has been blood cholesterol to seek ATV operators should look • Counties and towns may evidenced by several national medical advice for signs that designate or also have additional ATV surveys. One of the latest Please direct any questions prohibit where ATVs can be regulations, so make sure to surveys showed that the concerning blood cholesterol driven. Sometimes temporary check these before riding. percentage of the public that has and coronary heart related or seasonal signs may be had their blood cholesterol issues to the Mille Lacs Band posted on closed trails, so checked increased from 35% to Public Health Department at make sure to pay attention to 80%. This means that 80 to 100 320/532-7776 or any Band clinic all signs. million Americans who were health care provider.

4• Ojibwe Inaajimowin • September 2007 September.qxp 9/11/07 4:58 PM Page 5

Student Loan Problems Boxing Commission Updates By East Central Legal Services payments, any debt that is left The Contender star Upcoming kickboxing would be discharged. Some wins August boxing event If you can’t pay your lenders will agree to this, because bout at Grand Casino Championship titles will be on loan they would rather have a small regular payment than no Hinckley the line during the September As soon as you know that you payment at all. Make sure your 29, pro-am kickboxing event at will not be able to make a payment plan is something you Grand Casino Hinckley at 7 p.m. payment, call your lender. Ask can follow through on, do not Current U.S. Kickboxing for a forbearance or deferment of miss any of your payments. Champion Heath Fonnest from your payments. This means that Remember that you need the North Branch will compete you are asking for a short period lender’s agreement to make against Stacey Gosden from of time that you will not have to smaller payments; otherwise they England for the International make payments. In some cases, may sue you. Kickboxing Federation (IKF) you have a right to stop making If you would like more world super lightweight payments for a time to let you information concerning student kickboxing championship. find a job. You may also get a loans or if you are having trouble The IKF junior amateur light deferment if you are in school or paying a student loan, please call middleweight Minnesota state are temporarily disabled. title will be vied for between

East Central Legal Services at k Anderson

800/622-7772. East Central Ric amateur kickboxers Chuck Long-term solutions Legal Services is also available for (left) Anthony Bonsante went head- Anderson and Scott Legus. to-head with (right) Kendall Gould at If you have a job, but do not walk-in appointments at the Kickboxers Jordan Allan and Jon Grand Casino Hinckley on Lewis will compete for the Mille earn enough to make full following sites: August 24. Lacs Band warrior championship payments, talk to your lender. • District I at the Tribal Boxing fans witnessed title. Also on the card will be T.J. You may be able to consolidate Government Center’s exciting competitions and Gibson and Kirk Youngblut, who or refinance your loans. workforce office, Wednesdays, knockouts during the Boxing will compete for the Minnesota Consolidate means putting two or noon-4:30 p.m. Commission’s August 24 bout heavyweight amateur more loans together and paying at Grand Casino Hinckley. • East Lake Community Center, kickboxing title. them with one payment. Anthony Bonsante, a every other Tuesday, Tickets are $25, $35 and $55 Refinancing means taking out a professional boxer from St. 8 a.m.-noon and are on sale now. To new loan to pay off one or more Paul who appeared on NBC’s • Chiminising Community purchase tickets, visit the Grand old loans. Doing either option reality show, The Contender, Center, every other Thursday, Casino Mille Lacs or Grand may lower your monthly went head-to-head against 8 a.m.-noon Casino Hinckley box offices, call payments. Kendall Gould, a professional Ticketmaster at 651/989-5151, • Lake Lena Community Center, boxer from Wisconsin. The contact any Ticketmaster outlet, Repayment plans alternate Tuesdays, two went eight rounds, when or visit grandcasinomn.com. If the lender will not refinance 8 a.m.-noon Bonsante was declared the Warriors Fitness & Fight the loan, you can try asking for a • Urban Workforce Center, by winner on points. Promotions will host and the different repayment plan. Ask for appointment only Another main event featured Band’s Boxing Commission will an income contingent repayment (The above times are subject to Raphael “The Silencer” Butler, regulate the event. For more plan. In this kind of plan, the weather conditions and other who knocked out his information, contact Bobby monthly payment cannot exceed factors; please call our toll-free competitor, heavyweight boxer Anderson at 320/384-7409. 20% of your disposable income. number for the exact dates.) Clarence Goins. Other results After 25 years of monthly included: October mixed martial • Travis Walker from Florida arts event Events at the won on a technical knockout against Douglas Robertson Warriors Fitness & Fight Mille Lacs Indian Museum from Texas. Promotions will host a mixed • James Taylor from martial arts event on October 18 Medallion and buckle members, and $30 for Mille Lacs at 7:30 p.m. at the Grand Casino Band members. There is also a Minneapolis beat Harley beading workshop Kilfian after four rounds. Hinckley Events & Convention $10 supply fee. Center. Brock Larson, a top Participants will learn beading • Van Goodman of mixed martial arts fighter from techniques to create their own Veteran services Minneapolis won on a Brainerd, will serve as a special technical knockout against creative bead works to take Every Tuesday at the museum, guest referee. home. This two-day workshop Jake Betz from Wisconsin. Veteran services personnel are Tickets are $20 and $35 and will be on Saturday, October 6, present to offer free help to will be available for sale on the from 12-4 p.m. and from 10 a.m- veterans with benefits or medical day of the event. For more 2 p.m. on Sunday, October 7. The issues and questions. Call Kenny information, call Bobby cost is $50 for the public, $45 for Weyaus Sr. at 320/309-6925 for Anderson at 320/384-7409. Minnesota Historical Society more information. Prescription Refill Reminder Traditional Ceremonial By Ne-Ia-Shing Clinic Staff patients’ health in a safe and Dance Schedule optimal manner. The Ne-Ia-Shing pharmacy and • September 14-15, Vince and • November 2-3, Ralph and clinic staff want to remind If you receive a request Dale at East Lake Andy at Mille Lacs patients to please read your regarding the need for follow-up, prescriptions carefully. When please make an appointment in a • October 5-6, Merlin and Mick • November 9-10, Raining and refill requests are called into the timely fashion so that your at Mille Lacs Ole at Mille Lacs medications can be continued clinic, a medical provider reviews • October 12-13, Tim and • November 16-17, Joe and without any disruption. The clinic your chart in order to insure that Tommy at East Lake Reggie at Mille Lacs appropriate follow-up care is also encourages you to call with • October 19-20, Dave and Skip • November 23-24, Joyce and being done. Adequate follow-up, any questions or concerns you at Lake Lena Lynda at Mille Lacs including appropriate lab may have after receiving a assessment is a necessary written notification stating the • October 26-27, Lee and Larry • November 30-December 1, component in managing our need for follow-up. at Lake Lena Melvin and Perry at Mille Lacs

September 2007 • Ojibwe Inaajimowin • 5 September.qxp 9/11/07 4:58 PM Page 6

Band Member Development Mille Lacs Band Department Updates Participates in Regional By Berni Johnson, Corporate Recognition events for Pandemic Flu Drill Director of Band Member By Monte Fronk, Emergency of simulated pandemic events. Development Band member casino Associates Management Coordinator We observed how a virus would unfold from an initial outbreak More than 100 participants Band members attend Band Member Development to a worldwide pandemic. Then representing 14 counties and Steps to Economic and (BMD) planning committees, led we discussed our response once two tribal governments – by BMD Associate Directors, the pandemic hit the U.S. Each Personal Success class including the Mille Lacs Band – have been working on table of participants was given took part in a Central Minnesota On August 13-15, six band preparing special recognition questions to answer, such as pandemic flu exercise at Breezy member Associates attended the events for Band members “how much equipment do you Point Resort on August 23 and Steps to Economic and Personal employed at the casinos. BMD have?” and “what is your chain 24. This was the first regional Success (STEPS) workshop held has been in operation for five of command?”, in order to better pandemic flu drill of its kind at Grand Casino Hinckley. The years and these events are our prepare for an emergency held in any of the four public Associates were Wendy way of giving Band member situation. This exercise was very health regions in Minnesota. Benjamin, Donovan Dunkley, casino Associates a special night beneficial, especially as we met Gathering this large number of George LaFave, Jr., Lorelei to relax, enjoy good food, and members of other agencies people for a group discussion LaFave, Eric Mueller, and Jeremy socialize with other Associates. throughout Central Minnesota. on responding to a potential Sutton. The participants said Band member casino Associates On the second day, participants pandemic flu was a major they learned about affirmations have been invited to attend a chose to attend one of three accomplishment. and goal setting, interviewing recognition event: discussions – crisis In our two-day exercise, we skills, the importance of self-talk, • Grand Casino Mille Lacs – communications, personal learned about and used a multi- balancing life and work, and Tuesday, October 2, at 5 p.m. protective equipment training, or agency coordination (MAC) being positive. On a scale of how to set up and use a • Grand Casino Hinckley – system, which helps local law one (low) to six (high) for decontamination tent. applying this information to Tuesday, October 9, at enforcement agencies, hospitals, At the Band’s next Tribal their work environment, the 5:30 p.m. emergency personnel, and other Emergency Response Committee average class rating was 5.3. The events will take place at key players respond quickly to (TERC) meeting, we plan to the casinos’ convention centers. emergency situations. If a STEPS is offered up to four share the information we Chi mii gwetch to Loretta community has a large-scale times per year – twice at Grand learned at the drill with Hansen and the Hinckley team emergency, community leaders Casino Mille Lacs and twice at committee members who were of Delsie Day, Reine Garbow, could contact the MAC system, Grand Casino Hinckley – and is unable to attend the event. We Tenase McClay, and Melanie which would then alert other open to current Band member will also update the Band’s Quaderer; and to Carol Shaw communities about their need Associates (including casino, emergency management plan and the Mille Lacs team of for assistance. The MAC small business, corporate, or Job based on what was learned at Darlene Day, Lisa Murphy, Joe provides a central Exploration Training Program the exercise. Associates) or those interested in Nayquonabe, Erik Parsons, communications system so that Mille Lacs Band TERC working at the Corporate Krista Roache, Stacey Sanchez, emergency workers have more members who attended the Commission or at corporate- and Brandon Wade. time to address a situation. This exercise included Special owned businesses. We look forward to seeing is the first time that our region is Counsel on Government you there! utilizing a MAC system, which is a component of the National Affairs/Public Information Officer Incident Management system. Tadd Johnson, Director of Public Indian Health Services typically Safety Sid Lucas, Commissioner Mille Lacs Band Deer acts as the MAC liaison for of Health and Human Services tribes. Sam Moose, Tribal Police Chief Dwight Reed, Corporate Director Hunting Regulations On the first day of the event, of Security and Surveillance Brad all counties and tribes The 2007 off-reservation accomplishment under a Roache, and Safety/Risk participated in a tabletop treaty deer hunting season Band hunter education and Manager Rob Thompson. begins September 7 and ends firearm safety course. exercise to practice a sequence December 31. • No Band member under 12 Please be familiar with the years of age may hunt while Chief Executive Calendar following regulations: possessing a firearm, bow • All hunters are required to and arrow, or crossbow To keep Band members • Gave welcome remarks at the have a hunting permit. unless authorized by the informed about what Chief Native American Law (Carry your Mille Lacs Band Band’s Department of Executive Melanie Benjamin has Enforcement Summit at Grand been working on, here is a look Casino Hinckley ID and an off-reservation Natural Resources. back at just a few of the items natural resources harvesting • No Band member under 14 * Hosted, attended and gave from her recent schedule: welcome remarks at the permit.) years of age may hunt while • Attended Shinobe Jam National Self-governance • Deer hunters are required to possessing a firearm, bow • Attended the 41st Annual Mille Planning Conference in have carcass tags. and arrow, or crossbow Hinckley, Minn. unless he or she is Lacs Powwow • Hunters who wish to hunt * Traveled to Washington D.C. accompanied by a parent, • Attended compromise antlerless deer are required for meetings with BIA and guardian, or other adult hearings with Band Assembly to have an antlerless deer meetings on Capitol Hill Band member designated by • Held listening circles in District permit, valid for up to two a parent or guardian. II and urban area • Attended meeting of the weeks. Minnesota Chippewa Tribe’s • No parent, guardian or Band • Met with Band members on • Hunters born on or after Housing Subcommittee member shall authorize or various issues January 1, 1977, may not knowingly permit or • Held Elder Advisory Board • Held a round table discussion hunt while possessing a encourage a Band member meeting with Band member firearm, bow and arrow, or under 14 years of age to contractors crossbow unless the Band • Attended compromise/share violate this section. holders meeting member has been issued a certificate of • Hosted and attended Elder trip to Milwaukee

6• Ojibwe Inaajimowin • September 2007 September.qxp 9/11/07 4:58 PM Page 7

Public Health Update Increased Non-Smoking Meet the new Diabetes Department have partnered with Areas: A Step in the Right Team Coordinator the American Cancer Society to promote education regarding Direction early detection measures By Sam Moose, Mille Lacs Band limiting exposure to second- through cervical and Commissioner of Health and hand smoke in our casinos’ mammogram screenings. Human Services restaurants, convention centers, Breast and cervical cancer are and hotel lobbies – where This month at Grand Casino preventable diseases that are families should feel safe when Mille Lacs and Grand Casino eating and gathering for events. high among American Indian Hinckley, Band members will Smoking is already prohibited females in Minnesota. Through notice several new non-smoking inside Band facilities, near the annual screenings, education, areas. The Corporate front entrances of buildings, and and early detection, the risk of Commission made this decision in Band-owned vehicles. these cancers can be decreased. for the health of casino visitors Of course, we must continue The program will include as a whole, but the change is also significant to Band to remember tobacco’s licensed medical professionals members and the Band important ceremonial purposes. who will share with the audience This will not change. But, Sue Swanson, a registered government. the importance of early traditional tobacco use and nurse and certified diabetes There are many health detection screenings, and how to good health can coexist. educator, has long had an benefits that go along with access medical screenings. On behalf of the Department interest in diabetes education. reducing people’s exposure to The Minnesota Department of second-hand smoke. At the of Health and Human Services, After working with the Mille Lacs Health SAGE Screening Program Band’s clinics and at health care kudos to the Corporate Health System for 10 years, she is a statewide comprehensive facilities everywhere, children Commission and Sarah Oquist wanted to spend more time on breast and cervical cancer and adults are diagnosed with for increasing the number of patient education. Sue has non-smoking areas at the screening program whose cancer, respiratory infections, worked with the Band’s clinics casinos. This is good news for primary objective is to increase asthma, and other health for six years, and in 2005, joined problems due to second-hand Band members, the Band’s the proportion of age- the Diabetes Team as an smoke exposure. Anything we efforts to promote healthy living appropriate women who are educator to help people with can do to alleviate this problem and prevention, and everyone screened for breast and cervical who visits Grand Casino Mille diabetes manage their disease is good news for Band members cancer. Women 40 and older Lacs and Grand Casino Hinckley. and to teach others about and our children. This includes who qualify will be able to preventing diabetes with good receive a $20 gift card from the diet and exercise. SAGE Program when they have Recipe of the Month “I feel rewarded when I see completed the screening. Tribal 2. Melt margarine and cocoa better outcomes in our patients’ members automatically qualify Sugar-free brownies health,” said Sue. “Education is together in a small saucepan for the program. Whether you’re avoiding over medium heat, stirring very important to getting the using processed sugar because Lunch will be available for occasionally until smooth. message out about diabetes of diabetes, weight issues, or participants, as well as several Remove from heat and set aside prevention.” general health reasons, there gift drawings. You do not have to cool. In June, Sue became the new are many recipes for desserts to pre-register to participate in 3. Beat eggs in a large bowl Diabetes Team Coordinator and that are not overloaded with the “Friend to Friend” Party. until frothy. Stir in the sucralose sugar. Recipes often use a is responsible for developing Please feel free to join us and sweetener. Combine the flour variety of ingredients – diabetes classes, organizing and salt; stir into the egg bring a friend. including artificial sweeteners, work-site diabetes screenings for mixture, then mix in the cocoa “Friend to Friend” will be held applesauce, bananas, and Band members and employees, and margarine. Finally, stir in 1 at the following locations: brown rice syrup – to substitute cup of milk and walnuts (if and continuing to educate for regular or brown sugar. Try • District I Community Center desired). Pour into the prepared people about the disease. She these delicious sugar-free on October 16 pan. also helps organize other brownies. screenings, including those for • District II ALU on October 15 4. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes in the preheated oven until a children and home visits. • District III Community Center Ingredients toothpick inserted into the “The Band has a strong on October 22. • 1/2 cup margarine center comes out clean. diabetes program that is For more information, please • 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa 5. To make frosting, mix recognized by the American contact me at 320/532-7812 or powder together the sugar-free Diabetes Association for its 800/709-6445, ext. 7812. • 2 eggs chocolate pudding mix and 1 educational efforts,” said Sue. cup skim milk using an electric • 1 cup granular sucralose “We are continually working Diabetes Team update mixer. Mix for about two sweetener (e.g. Splenda™) hard to maintain our high level minutes or until thick. Spread You’re invited to a diabetes of service to our patients, keep • 3/4 cup all-purpose flour over cooled brownies before class. up on the latest medical • 1/8 teaspoon salt cutting into squares. • When: Tuesday, October 9 information, and expand our • 1/4 cup skim milk program. I am proud to be a • Time: 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Nutrition information • 1/2 cup chopped walnuts part of this great team.” Servings per recipe: 25 • Location: District I (optional) Nutrition amount per serving Community Center • 1 (1.4 ounce) package sugar- “Friend to Friend” Calories: 79 Party Join the Diabetes Team in free chocolate fudge instant learning about managing pudding Total fat: 5.7 g Cholesterol: 17 mg By Marlene Poukka, Community diabetes and overall good • 1 cup skim milk Sodium: 70 mg Health Educator health. Lunch will be provided. Space is limited, so sign up now Directions Total carbs: 7.1 g The Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe – call Lorna Garbow at 1. Preheat oven to 350º F. Dietary fiber: 0.6 g Public Health Department and 320/532-4163, ext. 7852. Grease and flour an 8 x 8 inch Protein: 1.9 g Health & Human Services pan.

September 2007 • Ojibwe Inaajimowin • 7 September.qxp 9/11/07 4:58 PM Page 8

Mille Lacs Band Of Ojibwe Tribal Government Monthly Financial Report

April 2007 Approved Budget Actual Expenditures % of Budget for FY 2007 through 4/30/07 Expended Administration (1)* 13,366,954 5,815,884 43.5% Workforce* 8,888,239 2,730,599 30.7% Judicial 947,319 441,127 46.6% Law Enforcement* 3,668,053 1,670,861 45.6% Education* 15,991,390 8,561,281 53.5% Health and Human Services* 21,971,594 11,548,909 52.6% Natural Resources* 5,042,447 3,102,100 61.5% Community Development* 45,138,724 14,752,791 32.7% Gaming Authority 4,314,052 2,109,275 48.9% Bonus Distribution 33,919,140 23,220,766 68.5%

Total Expenditures $153,247,912 $73,953,593 48.3%

Financial Notes: (1) Administration includes Chief Executive, administration, finance, Solicitor General, legislative, government affairs, and district operations.

(2) The amounts above do not include casino operations. However, they do include government operations funded by casino distributions.

(3) The Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe has its financial statements audited every year by an independent public accounting firm. Audit reports from previous years are available for review at the government center.

(4) Economic development appropriations have been excluded as of October 31, 1997. As of October 1, 1997, the Band has separate accounting functions for the Corporate Commission from the tribal government. * These departments include continuing appropriations from the 2006 fiscal year.

Tune in to KKIN & Business Management KBEK Training Class to Begin Soon Every month we publish the Are you interested in owning your own business or would like dates and times of upcoming to know more about owning a business? Come join the fall Mille Lacs Band radio 2007 Business Management Training Class. Class will begin on appearances. The KKIN radio Monday, September 17. The 10-week class will be held every appearances have a Q & A Monday from 5:30-8:30 p.m. in Hinckley. Band members who format, meaning people can call are thinking of becoming a business owner or who wish to in and ask questions. Band receive additional training to operate their existing businesses members are encouraged to are welcome to attend. For more information or to register, listen and call in to 218/927-2100. The KBEK appearances feature a please call Sharon James at 320/532-8817. Band representative talking with the host. Listed below are the dates and times of the September and October appearances.

KKIN radio – 94.3 FM Free Hearing Evaluations September 20, 8:30 a.m. Ne-Ia-Shing Clinic Don Wedll and Eric North Topic: Nay Ah Shing Schools When: Friday, October 12 To schedule an appointment, call 320/532-4163. October 18, 8:30 a.m. Walk-ins are welcome, we will do our best to serve you. Don Wedll and Curt Kalk Topic: Hunting Twin Cities locations

KBEK radio – 95.5 FM Where: Hearmore Hearing offices in St. Paul and Osseo September 18, 7:30 a.m. When: Monday-Friday Rose Noonday To schedule an appointment, please call the St. Paul office at Topic: Childhood memories 651/771-4019 or the Osseo office at 763/391-7433. Please check your insurance policy to find out if you are October 16, 7:30 a.m. eligible for $1,000 toward the purchase of hearing aids. Kenny Weyaus Topic: Coming home

8• Ojibwe Inaajimowin • September 2007 September.qxp 9/11/07 4:58 PM Page 9

Tribal Noteboard Martin Happy September from Pie and Baby Kevin • Happy September Jennings birthday to: Georgia Bearheart, on birthday to Mille Lacs September 6 from McKellen, Named to Papa Tony Pike, on Kayana Bearheart, Momma Band Elders! September 3 from Baby Stina • and Papa Scott, Pat, Letha, Hazel Ailport Blandin Grandma Deloris, on Terrell, Miranda, Kaitlyn, Joe Anderson Jr. September 3 with love from Foundation Bugger, Sherraine, Mary Jane, Viola Buck your little pumpkin Christina • Ms. Ale’, Carla, Kim, Darcie, James Clark Board of Tyson Sam, 17, on September Eldayshun, Day-Dayz, Todd, Joseph Crown Jr. 14 with love from mom, sister, and Barbara Jo • Todd Big Trustees Roger Dorr brother, grandpa, and Auntie Bear, 11 on September 9, with Catherine Erickson Gladys and family • Jonathan love from mom, Day-Dayz, Shirley Evans-Garcia Sam, 14, on September 14 with grandma, grandpa, Pat, Letha, Violet Ewert love from mom, sister, brother, Terrell, Miranda, Kaitlyn, Lorena Gahbow grandpa, and Auntie Gladys Georgia, Kayana, McKellen, and family • Lynnae Potter, on Bugger, Ale, Carla, and Kimmy Joseph Garbow September 12 with love from • Sage B, on September 3 with Mary Garbow Aunt Lenore, Tyson, Eva, Jon, love from Kelly, Darc, Todd, Carol Hernandez and Auntie Gladys and family • Eldayshun, Georgia, Kayana, Kathleen Johnson William Potter II, on k Anderson McKellen and Kimba • Roger Carol Mojica Ric September 13 with love from Garbow Sr., on September 5 Elmer Nayquonabe Corporate Commission Auntie Lenore and family • from Bev, Juni, Roy and Jillian • Joseph Nayquonabe employee Martin Jennings was Zachary Kegg, 14, on chosen to serve a four-year term Aubrey Benjamin, Tierra Day, Carol Sam September 15 with love from LaDarius Loving and Allyssa on the Blandin Foundation Board Darlene Sam of Trustees, located in Grand mom, Aunt Lenore, Tyson, Eva, Welsh, with love from Gramma Joseph Sam Rapids. The foundation aims to and Jon • Collin Smith, Gladys, Papa Ron, and the Janice StandingCloud strengthen rural Minnesota September 24 with love from whole family • Collin, 18, on Charles Sutton communities and provides grants Lenore and kids • Clayton Sr., September 25 with love from and public policy and leadership Irvin Sutton on September 25 from Chi- mom, dad, Roland, Desi, Lydell, programs. Martin will begin his Leroy Thomas Lenore and kids • Daniel St. Kayla, Camille, Lance, Terrell, term on the Blandin Foundation Russell Thomas Board in January 2008. John, 3, on September 24 with Tierra, LaDarius, Candy, Clay, Martin works as the Director of love from daddy • Christopher, Clay Jr., Aubrey, Roxanne, Leonard Weyaus Development for the Corporate 26, on September 20 from Auntie Bev, Rog, Juni, Roy, and Richard Weyaus Commission. Mom, Rochelle, Brandon, Hill • Kyle Welsh, 13, on Micheal Wind Pablo, Jameson, Cordell, Lil’ September 4 with love from Chris, Nicole, Gramma A.A., Grampa Ron, Gramma Gladys, Congratulations Flood Relief Karen, Tracy, Jacob, Shelby, Roland, Collin, Auntie Desie, Congratulations to Trina Fast Addressed Jarvis, Aiva, Jamie, Sharon, Kayla, Lydell, Auntie Camille, Horse for making Mille Lacs Ravin, and Wallace • Sandy, Lance, Terrell, Tierra LaDarius, Band Junior Princess for 2007- During 46, on September 20 with love Auntie Candy, Clay, Clay Jr., 2008. Trina is the daughter of from Pablo, Brandon, Rochelle, Aubrey, Roxanne, Auntie Bev, Mike Fast Horse and Pauline Special Cordell, Jimmy, Little Wolf • Rog, Juni, Roy, and Jill • Sam. Congrats from Cilla, Desie, Joe, mom, brother Bear, Jason Session Destanie Anderson, 11, on Clayton Benjamin, on At press, Governor Tim September 3 with love from and all your relatives. September 25 with love from Pawlenty had called a special Shy, Jordan, Gramma Gina, • • • Candy, Clay Jr., Aubrey, legislative session to start on mom, papa, Gramma Nazz, and Roxanne, all your in-laws, and September 11 to primarily Dallas • Chazzy, 24, on Garbow/Smith family • Uncle address flood relief for September 1 with love from Roger-BN, 52, on September 5 southeastern Minnesota. Chazzy Jr. and Valerie • B from Roland, Collin, Desi, Governor Pawlenty and lawmakers decided on an agenda Dawg, on September 14 with Kayla, Lydell, Camille, Lance, love from Chazzy Jr., Chazzy, for a one-day special session in Terrell, LaDarius, Candy, Clay, which lawmakers are expected to

and Val • Charles C, September hell Clay Jr., Aubrey, and Roxanne • pass a disaster relief bill. The 1 from Sarah, Samantha, Judy, Taiann Bearheart., 3, on bonding bill would provide about Rodney, Nana, Moogs, T-T and September 28 with love from $150 million to $160 million to everyone else • Tracy, on Grandma Bearheart • Ian, 9, assist communities in

September 29 with love from on September 29 with love tesy of Debbie Mitc southeastern Minnesota that our were hit with flash floods in Aiva Lea, Jacob, Shelby, Jarvis, from Grandma Bearheart • Jamie, Corey, Nicole, Chris, August. The proposed legislation Miranda Jay, 3 on September Photo c would also allocate some funds mom, Gramma A.A., Sharon, Congratulations Sean Racelo 13 with love from daddy, Letha, toward the I-35W bridge collapse; Ravin, Wally, Val, Kev, Pie, and Amber Karst. The happy Terrell, Kaitlyn, Aungie Georgia, however, a comprehensive couple was married on August Baby Kevin, Jameson, Cordell, Kayana, McKellen, Auntie Kim, transportation bill will not be 24, 2007 in Pierz, Minnesota. and Lil’ Chris • Brad Eric, Grandma Molly, and Papa Scott discussed during the special Sean's parents are Debbie September 17 from Nicole, • Jeffrey A. Sam, 25, on session. Mitchell and Jade Racelo of Jameson, Cordell, Chris Jr., September 27 from Lesley, In Minnesota, the Governor Garrison, MN. Amber's parents Chris Sr., Auntie Karen, Tracy, Bubbie, Tre’von and Quincey • may call the Legislature into a are Jackie and Scott Cook of special session, but the Sharon, Gramma A.A., Ravin, Amber Villebrun, 11, on Louisiana and Richard and Jan Legislature decides when it Jacob, Shelby, Jarvis, Aiva, September 9 from Lesley, Karst of Pierz, MN. The happy adjourns. Because of this, the Jamie, Val, Kev, Pie, and Baby Bubbie, Tre’von and Quincey. couple plan on making Brainerd Governor and legislators usually Kevin • Dad, on September 3 their home. agree on an agenda prior to a special session.

September 2007 • Ojibwe Inaajimowin • 9 September.qxp 9/11/07 4:58 PM Page 10

Circle of Health Update Moccasin Telegraph By Circle of Health Staff If you receive another Passing down Ojibwe software and teach people how statement, and you know that traditions to use the software. We Our office is moving the provider has the Circle of recently moved into a home Health information, call our that is large enough for our The Circle of Health office is office to get the status of the three children – Jordan, 12, moving to the Chiminising claim. It takes 60-90 days Kirsten, 11, and Kylie, 7 – and Community Center. The move before our office is even billed us. is expected to be complete by and may be longer if your mid-September. The address After my second child, primary insurance has the for reimbursements and claims Kirsten, was born, I realized payment on hold or is waiting can be sent to 2605 that I wanted to learn more for information regarding that Chiminising Drive, Isle, MN about my heritage and pass particular service. Our office 56342. The Circle of Health down the traditions to my kids. cannot make any payments off office can be reached at of a statement, but rather If I didn’t learn and teach them 800/491-6106, or by calling the receives a form from the Ojibwe ways, then I would be Chiminising Community Center provider’s billing office and a contributing to the death of our at 877/676-1102. The Circle of copy of your explanation of culture. I sent away for a Health Board previously sent a benefits. By Lana Burdette, Mille Lacs tutorial on how to do letter with proposed changes, If you are handing in Band member beadwork and I taught myself this move follows the plan to statements to our office with how to make things like decrease costs to the program The following article appeared no notes or follow-up, it takes earrings, which I give out as that are currently incurred at in the September 20, 2006, issue the claims processors even gifts. I also carry tobacco with the Onamia location. of the Mille Lacs Messenger. It is longer to request information me and I have been learning being reprinted with their from either you or the provider. the Ojibwe language with my Proposed changes permission. Unfortunately, some bills could kids. The Circle of Health Office My grandparents, Tom and end up in collections due to I started learning the Ojibwe would like to encourage Band Mary Shingobe, taught me lack of information provided. language in the mid-1990s members to continue to some Ojibwe traditions when I No matter how long you have through books, tapes, and a contact our office with was younger. My grandpa been a patient at a clinic or course over the phone. I comments and suggestions taught me the two-step and my dentist, always show your contacted Norman Clark on the regarding the June 15, 2007, Circle of Health card at every grandma taught me how to reservation, who worked with letter outlining proposed visit. make frybread. My parents, Ojibwe Mekana, an changes to Circle of Health. At Sylvester and Myra Shingobe, organization that produced this point, an effective date has Explanation of also encouraged me to learn Ojibwe language books and not been selected or a final the traditions, and my dad told benefits tapes. He was very helpful to determination of what non- stories about his family Band member services may or This is a helpful tip: when me in getting started with growing up on the Mille Lacs may not be covered by the reviewing your copy of the learning the language, Reservation. Unfortunately, I Circle of Health program. It is Explanation of Benefits and if especially since I don’t live wasn’t very interested in my the input of Band members there is no payment made by close to the reservation. Now, heritage when I was young that will determine the your primary insurance, this is I continue to study on my own, and I didn’t resume practicing outcome, but decisions must be an uncovered service. Circle of usually once in the morning the traditions until years later. made by the end of the year. Health does not pay for and once in the evening, along You can email your concerns to uncovered services, only co- Although I don’t live on the with teaching my kids the [email protected] pays and deductibles on reservation, I think it is language. My kids also listen covered services. If you are or call 800/491-6106. important to carry on the to the tapes, and I help unsure if a service is covered Ojibwe traditions wherever we translate the dialogue for them. or not, ask the provider to Benefit Coordinator are. I have managed to stay To help the kids comprehend check on your coverage before schedule connected to the culture even the words, I incorporate the any services are performed. though I live in the South. I Dawn Chosa will be at each language into everyday This is extremely important am originally from Minnesota, district clinic for community conversation. For example, I with dental services. There are but I transferred to Georgia outreach from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. very strict guidelines and will say in Ojibwe “come eat,” while working for a local Beginning Monday, September conditions for coverage of “come here,” or ask “do you trucking company. My 10, she will be at the Ne-Ia- x-rays, extractions, oral want to go?” so that they will husband Richard, whom I was Shing Clinic every Monday in surgery, crowns, and other hear the language being used. dating at the time, worked for the eye clinic area. In addition major restorative procedures. My kids answer back in Ojibwe to the clinic locations, she will the same company and was because our only rule is that be available at the urban office Reimbursements also transferred. We moved they must answer in Ojibwe if and the Chiminising South with big dreams and On a final note, please allow they are asked in Ojibwe. My Community Center. Please high goals that we were reimbursement claims a two- to son Jordan is also learning contact the Circle of Heath determined to reach. It’s been six-week grace period from the French in school, so it can be a office for more information. a rough ride at times for my date of submission to process. challenge for him learning Based on Band member needs, husband and me, but now we If you still haven’t received a multiple languages. more dates will be added to are both in careers we enjoy. reimbursement or denial after Sometimes, I ask him a her outreach calendar. Today, I work as a user six weeks, contact Michele question in Ojibwe and he’ll interface designer for Bennett Provider statement Palomaki, Circle of Health respond in French, but overall Director; David Boyd, Claims International Group, a trucking they are learning Ojibwe very When you receive a Processor for A-L; or Roberta company in McDonough, well. statement from a health care Lemieux, Claims Processor for Georgia. In my job, I design provider, it is always a good M-Z, at 320/532-5358. idea to contact them at the number provided and verify that they have your Circle of Health information for billing.

10 • Ojibwe Inaajimowin • September 2007 September.qxp 9/11/07 4:58 PM Page 11

Calendar of Events September 2007 Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday

*To Purchase If you would like Commissioners District IIA Urban Area Community an event included On Call Meeting 14 15 Tickets Meeting in the community A Mille Lacs Band Chiminising calendar, commissioner is All Nations Ladies of the Visit a Grand available every weekend Community Indian Grand Ole Opry* Casino box office, please contact to help Band members Center Church, GCML Kelly Sam at call TicketMaster at handle emergencies. If 5:30 p.m. 5:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. nightly 651/292-8062 you have an emergency, Contact: Contact: 612/989-5151, please contact the or write to Kelly at Marvin Pat or Barb, Commissioner on Call or visit commissioner on call at 255 E. Kellogg Blvd. 877/239-2444. The Bruneau, 612/872- Sarah Oquist, www.ticketmaster. Suite 102 emergency phone is 218/768- 1424 Commissioner of com St. Paul, MN 55101 answered from 5 p.m. 3311 District II Corporate Affairs Friday- 8 a.m. Monday. District III Meeting 877/239-2444 Meeting East Lake Community GCH Hotel 16 17 18 19Center 20 21 22 Ballroom 5:30 p.m. Liza Minnelli* 5:30 p.m. Bill Engvall* Contact: GCH GCML Contact: Mary Sue Bohanon, 5 p.m. 6:30 p.m. & 9 p.m. Monica Benjamin, 218/768-3311 320/384-6240 All District Elder Commissioner on Call East Central Meeting Commissioner on Call 11:30 a.m. Sam Moose, Legal Services Commissioner of Sarah Oquist, Contact: Nora Commissioner of 12-4:30 p.m. Health & Human Tamia Cramer, Benjamin, Services Corporate Affairs 320/532-4181 877/239-2444 800/622-7772 877/239-2444

Commissioner District I 36th Annual on Call 23Community 24 25 26 27 28Human 29 Sam Moose Meeting Rights 877/239-2444 District I Commission Community Center Conference 5:30 p.m. 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Contact: Becky GCML Commissioner Sam, 320/532-7423 30 East Central Commissioner on Call on Call Legal Services Joycelyn Joycelyn Shingobe, 12-4:30 p.m. Commissioner of Shingobe Tamia Cramer, 877/239-2444 Education 800/622-7772 877/239-2444 October 2007

Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday 12 3456 John Anderson East Central and Keith Legal Services Anderson* 12-4:30 p.m. GCML Tamia Cramer, 4 p.m. & 7 p.m. 800/622-7772 Commissioner on Call Curt Kalk, Commissioner of Natural Resources 877/239-2444

All offices 7891011closed for East Central 1213 Mille Lacs Day Legal Services 12-4:30 p.m. The Lettermen* AMVETS Tamia Cramer, GCH Meeting 800/622-7772 4 p.m. GCML 6 p.m. Commissioner on Call Contact: Ken Weyaus, Commissioner on Call Curt Kalk, 320/309-6925 R.J. Brunkow, Commissioner of Pine Grove Solicitor General Natural Resources Leadership 877/239-2444 877/239-2444 Academy Meeting Aazhoomog School 6:30 p.m. 14 Contact: Skip Churchill, 320/384-6970 Onamia Indian Education Parent Committee Meeting Commissioner on Call Onamia School R.J. Brunkow, District Office Solicitor General Conference Room 877/239-2444 12 p.m.

September 2007 • Ojibwe Inaajimowin • 11 September.qxp 9/11/07 4:58 PM Page 12

What was your Favorite Family Vacation? Report Abuse or Neglect It’s confidential – and the right thing to do John Mojica Nancy Wood By Sam Moose, Mille Lacs Band Commissioner of Health and “My favorite ”My favorite Human Services family family vacation was vacation was At a recent District I community meeting, I was asked how taking my when our Band members can report abuse or neglect. This is such an 5-year-old family drove important topic that I decided to address it in the Band’s son to Paul up to newspaper. Bunyan Land Canada. The decision to report suspected abuse or neglect can in Brainerd. While sometimes be difficult. You may feel that you are breaking up a We went on camping out, family or interfering in a situation that is none of your business. all the fun a bear But reporting potential cases of abuse or neglect is always the rides. The climbed into right thing to do. Making sure that our friends, relatives and weather was nice, and my son one of our tents. We still have neighbors are safe in their own homes is everyone’s business. was amazed that big Paul pictures of it happening.” Taking care of the children in our neighborhoods is also part Bunyan knew his name.” of our traditional responsibilities in the Ojibwe culture. Our ancestors addressed cases of abuse and neglect in a community Greg Davis Louise Davis setting. While the times have changed, we still should address these concerns as a community. “My favorite ”My favorite vacation vacation was Confidentiality concern time is when our attending the family drove Many people who want to report suspected abuse or neglect Cass Lake through are concerned that their identity will be revealed to the powwow Canada, then individual(s) who are accused. This is an understandable with family to concern, but you should know that confidentiality is written into every year.” Yellowstone both Band statute and state law on this subject. This means State Park. that law enforcement and social services personnel are bound We rented a by law to not reveal the identity of the person who reports a pop-up suspected case of abuse or neglect. camper and camped out.” How to make a report Elizabeth Towle Lenore Potter Reports of abuse or neglect should be made directly to tribal social services and the county where the accused individual(s) “My favorite ”My favorite reside. In accordance with Public Law 280, the counties of vacation was family residence are authorized to investigate such matters. just recently. vacation was To make a report in one of the Mille Lacs Reservation My when my counties, call: Grandmother family drove Carol Towle, to Green • Mille Lacs Band Family Services: 320/532-7764 myself, and Bay, • Mille Lacs County: 320/983-8208 (family services) or my Wisconsin to 320/983-8250 (sheriff’s department) boyfriend, visit • Aitkin County: 218/927-7200 (social services) or Andy, went relatives.” 218/927-7435 (sheriff’s department) to Las Vegas for my 21st birthday.” • Pine County: 320/245-3055 (human services) or 320/629-3930 (sheriff’s department) All photos courtesy of Rick Anderson. If you are reporting an emergency situation, call 911. When giving your report, some counties may require you to give your name and address for the legal record and enough information 41st Annual for an investigation to proceed. Iskigamizigan Powwow What happens next After you have reported the potential abuse or neglect, a screening process will take place. Depending on the findings of this process, the outcome may include a family assessment in which children remain in the home while a contract is made for correcting problem areas, or children may be removed from the home. Each situation is different. However, no matter what happens, the name of the person who reports their concerns remains confidential. Protecting children and families

Mille Lacs Messenger In Minnesota in 2006, nearly 7,000 children were abused and neglected, 48 children suffered life-threatening injuries, and 19 children died from maltreatment. If reporting neglect or abuse tesy of the can save just one person from becoming a statistic like this, the our call is well worth it.

Photo c If you want more information on this topic, please call Ted Dancers dressed in brightly colored regalia take part in a variety of dances Waukey, Lead Social Worker for the Band’s Indian Child Welfare during the Mille Lacs Band Powwow, including the women’s traditional dance shown above. Services Program, at 320/532-7762.

12 • Ojibwe Inaajimowin • September 2007