Miisaninawiind :: April 26 - May 2, 2021
Boozhoo and welcome to the Miisaninawiind weekly newsletter!

The Miisaniinawind brings you important news, announcements and updates, designed specifically for the Red Cliff community. But that's not all. The weekly eNewsletter will also provide news about neighboring tribes, communities and broader issues across Indian Country that matter to you.

If you have photos, news or information you'd like to share, please email submissions to [email protected].

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Red Cliff News & Updates
COVID-19 Community Updates
An up-to-date list of COVID-19 related notices and educational resources can be found on the Red Cliff website.

Tribal Departments and Programs are still offering virtual and social-distance events! Check out the Events Calendar.
Vaccine Distribution
Click HERE for the most recent vaccine update from April 23.

Sign up to receive the vaccine by calling 715-779-5930.

Please consider getting vaccinated to protect your community!
Frank Montano Named Citizen of the Quarter
Anakwad (Cloud - Frank Montano) of the Migizi clan is a Red Cliff Tribal Member who continues to preserve Miskwaabekong culture through traditional dance, flute, storytelling, and teaching. Frank was born just west of the Red Cliff Community Health Center, the son of Catherine and Joe Montano who have both walked on. Frank has been married to Midge Montano for sixty years as of June 3, 2021. He is the father of five children, grandfather to fifteen, and great grandfather to twenty one! Frank is always available for his family on demand with love and happiness.

Frank's love for music and the arts has been shared through the United States and internationally. Frank speaks very highly and respectfully of his Red Cliff Community Native American Heritage and Culture. Although his first love is music, he has maintained a loving focus to his family and community. Sharing his time with others through music and words is his gift to the Red Cliff Community.

In the late 1970s Frank held the position as the Red Cliff Arts and Culture Director for the Red Cliff Reservation. The position promoted the arts and culture through the Buffalo Bay Aft Center, which was located where Legendary Waters is presently located. Frank is always willing to prepare food and share it with his family and community. His past career as an electrician is still being shared with family and community members. He is always willing to give a helping hand to his family and community.

Frank has held the following positions to enhance the community:
Red Cliff Council Member
Hunting, Fishing, Spearing, and Gathering of Traditional Foods Supporter
Red Cliff Housing Board
Red Cliff Garden Advisory Board
Red Cliff Arts Board
Bay Area Chequamegon Bay Arts Board
Wisconsin Arts Board

Frank is a gentle and quiet Red Cliff Tribal Member who is always willing to share his time, words, and music with others.
 
Miigwech Anakwad for continuing to preserve and pass down Red Cliff culture!

The Red Cliff Tribal Council would like to say Chi Miigwech to Frank Montano for all you have done, and continue to do, for the Red Cliff Community.
 
Do you know someone who deserves to be nominated for Citizen of the Quarter? Let us know!

Panek Wins Contest, Set to Start Business
From NMU's Northern Today
By Jill Vermeulen

Red Cliff Tribal Member and Northern Michigan University junior Bazile Panek won NMU's 2021 New Business Venture Competition for both his written plan and his presentation in the Big Pitch competition for his proposed business, Niim, which will market socks adorned with traditional Indigenous designs created by Native Americans.

“I was inspired to start Niim because, up until attending college, I didn't have to wear business attire very often,” said Panek, a Native American studies major. “When I started having to do that on a more regular basis, I felt uncomfortable because it was such a contrast to what I was used to wearing, which was a traditional ribbon shirt and a beaded medallion. This is what Native American people consider as ‘business attire.'

“I started to wear dress socks with Native American designs and my beaded medallion as a necktie. I immediately felt so much more confident anytime I had to wear business attire. I felt proud of my ancestry and culture, and that confidence led to more opportunities for me. I was inspired to provide inexpensive socks with Native American designs to others who may also be lacking the confidence to step up and create opportunities for themselves in our Western society.”

Panek said Niim will create a respectful and direct avenue to appreciate Indigenous peoples and their art. Initially, the business will carry three different designs of casual crew socks, with the goal of adding three new designs each year. The name Niim is a shortened version of the word niimi, which means “he or she dances” in the Ojibwe language, he said.

“I'm really excited to move forward with Niim by using the funds for purchasing all that's required for me to start the business,” said Panek. “I'm also looking forward to the consultation that's provided. The opportunity to work directly with business professionals and have them answer all my burning questions is really exciting. Winning the competition was a huge motivation for me, so I'm looking forward to starting the business in the near future.”

--

Stay tuned for more details about Panek's emerging Niim business!
Oatmeal-N-BaconGreez: Tribal Member Podcast
Red Cliff Tribal Member Hudson "Migizi" Gauthier has started his own podcast - "Oatmeal-N-BaconGreez" - a collection of interviews and stories of inspiration, struggles, hopes, traumas, successes, and survivors.

What is the podcast all about?
"We interview people from all walks of life, including professionals, musicians, personalities, artists, athletes, activists, and more. Most of the show's guests are minorities who share their stories by delving into their personal backgrounds while sharing some of the most intimate details of their lives - which we like to call 'getting into the greez.' Everyone has a story, and everyone can learn or take something from it and apply it to their life."

Gauthier grew up in Red Cliff during most of his younger years, enjoying the old Hall, swimming on the docks, walking to BJ's store, playing baseball, and spending time at wolf camp.

Gauthier says he has always known he was supposed to be using his gifts from the creator and make it his life's work to help people through expression, humor, understanding, and sharing stories of his experiences.

So, why a podcast?
"I was dealing with some serious PTSD in the aftermath of my father's murder. I wasn't even finished mourning my mother's death, or my nephew's murder by a police officer on the Bad River reservation. The investigation and trial for my father's murder lasted nearly two years in time all together. That's considerably a long time to just be on idle trying to keep it together and await justice. It wasn't until it was finally all over that I felt like I could begin to mourn for him. Then the pandemic hit and my PTSD had me suffering emotionally, physically, and spiritually. I had to admit that I needed to seek out a counselor because I couldn't do this all by myself. It was too much. I had a lot to say and talking about the tragedies that had happened in my life wasn't easy. Ultimately, I decided that my counselor did too much listening and wasn't giving me enough tools to combat my depressive state. I also realized that talking to family and friends that would engage with me, give me advice, share stories of their own experiences was far more valuable to me. That's when it happened. An epiphany, and that's when everything made sense, the stars aligned, the timing was perfect. I was going to reinvent myself during this pandemic, utilize my gifts to help myself and others heal by telling their stories - I was going to start my own podcast!"

How'd you end up with a name like Oatmeal-N-BaconGreez?
"I had the plan, the outline, and vision. But I didn't have a name. I knew I wanted to dedicate this podcast to my late father so I sat and thought about it all night. Searched every corner of my mind, flipping through memories like a rolodex. Nothing. I couldn't find the name. Disappointed with myself I went to bed. In the morning my partner cooked a big breakfast--oatmeal, bacon, eggs, sausage, and blueberry pancakes. She woke me up and said come grab something to eat. I wasn't even hungry but she made such a big breakfast that I didn't want to disrespect her efforts. I went to make my plate and seen the bacon just a sizzling, and oh boy, that oatmeal was steaming like a locomotive, the grease was just a poppin' and right then and right there, like a lightning bolt had struck me from the heavens, not even Chief Buffalo could have blessed me with a better name -- Oatmeal-N-BaconGreez.

"It was the perfect name. How could I have missed this beautiful name? That was absolutely one of my Dad's favorite meals. Even after his heart attack he'd celebrate his favorite meal once a year at language camp as a reward to himself, and absolutely the only thing he ever made sure was on the menu every single year. It was like a soul food for him. I'd watch his face as he'd savor every bite, who knew oatmeal could be a time machine? It transported him to old memories and stories of family and friends. He was never stingy, always giving you the greeziest of details. You'd see everyone around him listening so intently, holding onto his words as he took little breaks to re-energize with just the littlest of bites, perhaps he wasn't savoring the oatmeal for the taste as much as his taste for the memories. And suddenly, everyone would erupt in laughter as he finished his last bite, as he looked everyone in the eyes, raised his eyebrows, and hit you with the punchline of his story."

How can people listen to Oatmeal-N-BaconGreez?
Gauthier's podcast is on most of the major platforms: Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, I Heart Radio, and Amazon Music.

How can people support Oatmeal-N-BaconGreez?
"Simply by listening, sharing, and liking your favorite episodes. Word of mouth is really a good way to help us out as well. Also, putting together this podcast takes investment, which I was lucky enough to have someone believe in my dream that is now a seed. It just needs a little water and sunshine to grow. Becoming a Patron subscriber to "Oatmeal-N-BaconGreez" is a fantastic way to help us meet monthly subscriptions, meet our initial debt payments on investment, pay for the equipment, buy new technology, build an actual studio, and eventually allow travel to get the greeziest of interviews. You can also just make a flat donation on our website by clicking on donate, using the menu bar to "buy us a cup of coffee" or "become a patron member". This can all be found on our website: Oatmeal-N-BaconGreez.com."
Primary Election Candidates Announced
Candidates for the 2021 Primary Elections have been confirmed and will appear on the 2021 Primary Election ballot on May 7, 2021. Listed below are the candidates who have met all the requirements to be placed on the ballot for the 2021 Primary Election.

All important dates and election information can be found at www.redcliff-nsn.gov/election.

CANDIDATES FOR CHAIRPERSON
Patricia R. (Patsy Ruth) DePerry
Michael D. Soulier
Christopher D. Boyd
Troy D. Gordon
Ray DePerry
Mercie A. Gordon
Marvin Defoe

CANDIDATES FOR TRIBAL TREASURER
Dennis J. Soulier
Christopher Hicks
Stephanie A. Defoe-Haskins
Johanna Wilson
Christopher M. Livingston

All voting for the 2021 Primary Election will take place on May 7, 2021 at Legendary Waters Resort & Casino. The polls will be open from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM.

A Red Cliff Tribal ID is required to receive and submit a ballot in both the Primary and General elections. Visit www.redcliff-nsn.gov/election for all important election information.

Questions can be directed to 715-779-3700 ext 4228 or via email to [email protected].

The General Election is set for July 6.

Tribal Members interested in running for an At Large seat need to formally submit their candidacy by Monday June 21.

For all 2021 Election information and important dates, visit:

Business Permits Due May 1
Resources Available
Red Cliff Business Owners -- Don't forget to renew or apply for your business permits by May 1. There are also several resources available to Red Cliff entrepreneurs and business owners.
Ernie Stevens Jr Visits Red Cliff
Vice Chairman Gordon Awarded Leadership Pin
National Indian Gaming Association Chairman Ernie Stevens Jr visited Red Cliff last week to meet with Red Cliff Vice Chairman Nathan Gordon, FHS Division Administrator Rebecca Benton, and Boys & Girls Club Youth Director Paige Moilanen.

Stevens presented Gordon with a National Indian Gaming Association Leadership Pin. Stevens then toured the Red Cliff Boys & Girls Club with Moilanen and Club Activities Coordinator Abe Butterfield. Stevens - a huge proponent of Boys & Girls Clubs across the country - discussed the importance of working with youth and how the Club positively impacts youth.

"Mr. Ernie Stevens is a great supporter of Tribal Sovereignty and our youth across Indian Country," said Gordon. "Receiving this pin means a lot to me for being recognized amongst many leaders who help and advocate for our people, youth, and next generations to come. It was truly an honor to have received this Leadership Pin."

NIGA Chairman Stevens, along with the Ford Foundation, provided roughly 8,000 masks to Red Cliff youth and the Red Cliff community.

Miigwech to Ernie Stevens Jr for visiting and supporting the Red Cliff community!
Jiibaakwedaa (Let's Cook) - Turkey Meatloaf
JIIBAAKWEDAA (Let's Cook) - On April 28 from 1-3 PM, pick up FREE food ingredients at Red Cliff Food Distribution. Then, watch this video of the recipe being made.

Follow the video and the recipe card provided in the food box to make your own delicious grilled turkey meatloaf!

Please send in your cooking pictures to [email protected] to be entered in a prize drawing.
Community Cleanup Events Scheduled For May
Several community cleanup events are scheduled for this May. Community members are encouraged to get outside and help keep Miskwaabekong clean!

May 1: Community Cleanup organized by a group of community members. Miigwech!

May 25: Tire Collection Event by RC Environmental Department

May 28: Spring Cleanup Day by RC Environmental Department (Spring cleanup dumpsters available to community May 27-29).

Click HERE to find more information on Environmental Department Spring Cleanup information in the Treaty Natural Resources 2021 Spring Ganawenjigaade newsletter.
Log Crossing - Wildlife in Red Cliff
Community Comes Together for Sexual Assault and Child Abuse Awareness
For the month of April, the Red Cliff Family Violence Prevention Program is asking community members to tie a Teal Ribbon around a tree in their yard or near their home in support of Sexual Assault Awareness Month. This Teal ribbon shows sexual assault survivors they have support and are believed!

You can pick up a teal ribbon at the Family Human Services building.

Submit a picture of your ribbon display to [email protected] or send via text to 715-292-7855. You can also submit to [email protected] for a chance to win raffle prizes! A drawing will be held April 30.
Awareness
It is estimated that only 4 to 8% of child sexual abuse reports are false or fabricated.5 Or, in other words, between 92 and 96% of reports are true. That’s a lot!

“Disclosure,” the term for telling someone about your experience of abuse, is never easy for survivors. Kids rarely disclose abuse for attention or to get someone in trouble; if a child discloses to you, it means they trust you to help and protect them. How you handle
this situation can change that child’s life.

The Red Cliff Family Violence Prevention advocates are here to help. We serve women, men and children on the Red Cliff Reservation and members of the Red Cliff Band in Bayfield County. Services include crisis intervention, counseling, legal and medical advocacy, and education.

If you or someone you know has been a victim of sexual assault, please don't hesitate to reach out to us for help.

Click HERE to learn more about Sexual Assault Awareness and the Red Cliff Family Violence Prevention Program.
Community Submission: Jim Peacock
"Sunrise at Frog Bay Tribal National Park"

Photo submitted by Red Cliff Tribal Member Jim Peacock.
Follow Jim on Instagram for more beautiful photos: @peacocknproud
Mino Bimaadiziiwin Farm
CSA Shares Now Available
Enjoy fresh, local, and delicious veggies all season long
Red Cliff's Mino Bimaadiziiwin Farm has opened sign-up for 2021 CSA Shares!

If eating fresh, local, and delicious veggies and fruits sounds ideal to you, then a Mino Bimaadiziiwin CSA Share might be just what you need! CSA stands for Community Supported Agriculture and is a way for the farm to provide seasonal produce at the peak of freshness, all season long.

Our CSA has been operating since 2017, and includes a wide range of fresh vegetables and herbs, a small selection of fruits, and other items like maple syrup and eggs. Revenue from the CSA helps support Farm operations, which in turn help advance the food sovereignty goals of the Red Cliff Band. We are not certified organic but everything at the farm is grown using organic methods – no chemicals or pesticides here!

WHAT'S A CSA ALL ABOUT?
When you sign up for a share, each week you will receive a box containing 8-11 fresh, seasonal and delicious items produced right here at the farm.

SO WHAT'S IN THE BOX?
We grow over 35 varieties of vegetables and herbs, so you’ll find all your favorites and maybe some new ones to try. Along with veggies and herbs, our fruit production includes strawberries, apples and pears. We also operate a sugarbush and care for a flock of laying hens, so you may find maple syrup or farm fresh eggs in your box too.

We do our best to pack the boxes with all your favorite spring, summer, and fall crops – and we also might introduce you to some new ones! Each box will come with a newsletter describing the contents and include recipe suggestions and storage tips. We want your experience to be rewarding, and we know that it can sometimes feel a bit overwhelming if you’re not sure what to do with the bounty (it even feels that way for farmers sometimes!). That’s why we are here to answer all your questions, provide cooking tips, and support you on your journey of seasonal eating.

WHAT'S THE LOCAL FISH OPTION?
If you choose the Local Fish option (new for 2021!) you’ll receive bi-weekly shares of locally harvested Lake Superior fish. All fish is harvested by Tribal fisherman and processed just down the road at the Red Cliff Fish Company. Options available for some customization of your bi-weekly fish preferences.

WHY ARE CSA PROGRAMS IMPORTANT?
By signing up for a CSA, you are choosing the nutritional benefits of eating fresh and in-season, and you are also supporting the local food system and local farms. You can trust that your food is not only fresh and flavorful, but grown by farmers you know, right down the road. A stronger local food system is more environmentally sustainable, builds community, and is better for your health!

PRICES
*Our CSA runs for 18 weeks from June 22 through October 19.

Full Season Share - $475
Cost for Red Cliff Tribal Members - $350
Cost for low-income Red Cliff families - $75
(must be eligible for other food assistance programs to qualify for Low-income Shares)

Full Season Share Plus Local Fish Option - $575
Cost for Red Cliff Tribal Members - $450
Cost for low-income Red Cliff families - $100
(must be eligible for other food assistance programs to qualify for Low-income Shares)
*Fish will be included bi-weekly

SIGN UP
You can download and fill out this form and drop it off at the farm, email it, or mail it. You can also sign up online. Printed copies will be available at the farm as well. We are located at 36735 Aiken Road, right next to the Red Cliff Community Health Center. Just reach out if you have any questions! 715-779-3782.

Spaces are limited, sign up today!

CSA pick-up will be Tuesdays from 3pm to 5pm at the Mino Bimaadiziiwin Tribal Farm, beginning June 22.
Proposed Code of Law Changes
The Red Cliff Legal Department is proposing changes to the Red Cliff Code of Laws.

The changes pertain to Chapter 16 - Business License and Tax Law; and Chapter 18 - Land Lease Regulations.

The proposed changes will be voted on at the May 3 Tribal Council Meeting.

Click HERE to view the proposed changes.

Public comment on these proposals is encouraged. Please drop your comments at the Tribal Administration Building.
Health & Wellness
RCCHC Kicks Off Mental Health Awareness Month
The Red Cliff Community Health Center is working to raise awareness and end the negative stigma around mental health. RCCHC is sponsoring a digital storytelling contest for youth and an awareness walk. Please join us in supporting mental health awareness!

If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, contact us at (715) 779-3741 to begin services or to get help answering any questions you may have. Hours: Monday – Friday 8:00am -4:30pm.

If you are having an emergency call 911, or if you are experiencing a mental health crisis call the Bayfield County Mental Health Crisis Line 24 hours a day at 1 (866) 317-9362.
Virtual Sharing Circle - Every Wednesday
The virtual Sharing Circle hosted by the Noojimo'iwewin Center is back on Wednesdays at 6 PM! The Sharing Circle is scheduled weekly for each Wednesday.

This Sharing Circle provides an opportunity to share and receive support on your Recovery Journey from a Community of People who have been there. Weekly themes will be determined by the group.

Click HERE to access the meeting.
Meeting ID: 745 466 870
Password: nicetry

To join by Phone:
Dial +1 312-626-6799
Meeting ID: 745 466 870
Password: 456125

For more information, please call 715-779-3508 or 715-779-3707 Ext. 2450
Behavioral Health April Newsletter
Red Cliff Behavioral Health has released its April newsletter.

Click HERE to access the full newsletter for behavioral health resources. This month the focus is on alcohol use and stress management.
Virtual Recovery Meetings
There are various AA / NA / Alanon group meetings offered around the Chequamegon Bay area.

Click HERE to access the different meeting links and information.
For other Health Center information or general questions call: 715-779-3707 or Email  [email protected]

Click HERE to visit the Red Cliff Community Health Center website.

Click HERE for COVID-19 Updates and Resources.
Family & Human Services
Elder Home Meal Delivery Transitioning to Pickup
Delivery option still available
The Elderly Home Delivered Meals is transitioning to Grab & Go Lunches beginning May 10. Pickup will be between 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM at the Elderly Dining Center parking lot located at 36745 New Housing Rd.

For Elders who may have difficulty coming to grab your lunch, the home delivery option will still be available.

Please stay in your vehicle while meals are given to you.

Click HERE for details about the transition to Grab & Go Lunches.

Contact Anna Hanson and Elderly Dining with any questions at 715-779-3706 or via email at [email protected].
Food Storage Tips From RC Food Distribution
Dry Goods
Dry goods are shelf-stable foods that can be safely stored at room temperature and are typically packaged in a can, sealed plastic bag, cardboard box, or aseptic container. These items should be stored in a cool and dry area, off of the floor, and away from extreme sources of heat or cold. Depending on the product or manufacturer, dry goods may have a shelf life for a year or more. Check the package for the ‘best if used by’ date and use this handout to learn how to safely handle dry goods. Discard cans that are severely dented, bulging, leaking or rusted, as well as packages that were opened before you received them. These are signs that the food may be unsafe to eat.

Canned Fruit, Vegetables, Soup, Beans, Meat, Poultry, and Fish
Canned foods typically have ‘best if used by’ dates of 2-5 years for quality assurance, but they may be safe indefinitely as long as they are not exposed to freezing temperatures or temperatures above 90 °F. Before opening, clean the top of the can to remove any dust, dirt, or debris. After opening, store remaining food in the refrigerator in an air-tight container or resealable bag. Do not store remaining food in the can.

Dried Fruit, Dry Beans, Nuts, Nonfat Dry Milk, Dried Eggs, and Grains
Open the package and use the desired amount. If the food is in a resealable bag, tightly seal the bag before storing it. If the food is not in a resealable bag, store the remaining food in an air-tight container or resealable bag. These items can be stored at room temperature or in the refrigerator.

Tip: Break down large packages into smaller portions by using clean resealable bags and air-tight containers. For example, a 2 pound bag of dry beans can be divided into four-8 ounce bags. This will help to retain the quality of the remaining product.

Fresh Vegetables
Store onions, winter squash, and all types of potatoes in dry storage to maintain quality. Do not refrigerate these items. Wash all fresh produce thoroughly under running water before preparing and/or eating. Cut off any damaged or bruised areas before preparing and/or eating. Discard produce that is spoiled or rotten.

Shelf-stable Milk and Juice
Store at room temperature until opened. After opening, store in the refrigerator.

For more information, contact Carol Basina, Red Cliff Food Distribution Nutrition Educator at 715-779-3740.
Expert Panel on Sexual Violence
Prevention Set for April 27
Mashkiiziibii and Miskwaabekong will be hosting a panel of experts from the Wisconsin Coalition Against Sexual Assault (WCASA) on April 27. The panel is scheduled from 1 PM - 2 PM, and will answer tough questions about sexual violence and prevention strategies.

Meet the Panel

Kelly Moe Litke (she, her) - Kelly has worked in the gender-based violence field for over twenty years, currently serving as the Associate Director at the Wisconsin Coalition Against Sexual Assault (WCASA).

Justine Rufus (she,her,hers) - Justine is a tribal member from Bad River Band of Lake Superior Chippewa and resides in Red Cliff. Justine is currently the Rural Coordinator at the Wisconsin Coalition Against Sexual Assault. Justine has been a lifetime advocate and has a “big voice” for issues that impact Indian Country. She currently serves as the Co-Chair for Wisconsin’s Murdered and Missing Indigenous Women MMIW State Task Force.

Amanda Dotson (she,her,hers) - Amanda has worked in the gender-based violence field for over fifteen years, majority of that as the Associate Director of a direct service program. Amanda is currently serving as the Director of Program Development at the Wisconsin Coalition Against Sexual Assault (WCASA).

Facilitators: Brigette Mayotte, Ikwewag Advocate for Zhawenindig Program in Bad River and Jamie Corbine, Domestic Violence/Sexual Assault Advocate for Red Cliff FVPP.

Click HERE to access the panel and to listen and learn with us on April 27 from 1-2pm.

Participants will be entered in to win raffle prizes.
FoodWIse Newsletter - May 2021
FoodWIse Nutrition has released its May 2021 newsletter!

FoodWIse is federally funded statewide by the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program-Education (SNAP-Ed) and the Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program (EFNEP). FoodWIse advances healthy eating habits, active lifestyles and healthy community environments for Wisconsin residents with limited incomes through nutrition education at the individual, community and systems levels.

Click HERE to view the full April 2021 FoodWIse newsletter.
Education
ECC Offers Workshop for Parents
Bayfield School District Updates
You can view the school's news and updates on their website:

You can also find updates on the
Bayfield School District Facebook page.

Bayfield School Board Meeting April 26, 6:00 PM.
Click HERE for the meeting agenda.
Access Scholarship Opportunities
Red Cliff Community Members have access to a variety of scholarships.
Click HERE to visit the Education Department's Scholarships page.


Upcoming External Scholarship Opportunities

Bayfield Education Association Aspiring Educator Scholarship
Click HERE for details.

10 Scholarships for 2021 Native Students
Click HERE for details.

AISES Together Towards Tomorrow T3 Scholarships
Applications now open! Click HERE for details.

For anthropology/archaeology, or other cultural studies. Deadline April 26.
Boys and Girls Club of Gitchigami
Boys & Girls Club is back open!
Limited Capacity (10 Youth Limit)
The Red Cliff Boys & Girls Club of Gitchigami is back open! Due to COVID-19 restrictions on gatherings, the Club can only allow 10 youth in at a time.

*The Club will be closed temporarily on Monday April 26 for staff training*

How this looks:
Youth must sign up for the day they wish to attend the Club (Monday-Thursday). The Club will have sign up sheets. Guardians can call the Club and sign up youth for the day. You may also come to the Club and sign up. This is a first come first serve for the 10 spots on each day. Once the 10-youth limit is filled we will not e allowing any other youth in at that time. We encourage you to sign up as soon as possible!

Restrictions
Youth must have an updated application and COVID-19 waiver in their file to attend the Club. If you are unsure if they have this, please call the Club. Once we are at the 10 youth limit, no other youth will be allowed in the Club. Youth must be in 3rd grade up to 12th grade. Masks must be worn and social distancing guidelines will be enforced.

We understand this is not ideal, but it is a start to getting back to some normalcy. Please be patient as we try to navigate through this.

Temporary Schedule
Monday - Thursday: 3 - 6 PM. Youth must be picked up or walking home by 6 PM. Rides will not be provided.
Friday: CLOSED. Meal pickup at Food Distribution.

Please call the Club with any questions at 715-779-3722.
Free Meals for Club Members
The Red Cliff Boys and Girls Club continues its free meal campaign for club members through April.

Meals for Friday and Saturday are handed out at Red Cliff Food Distribution every Friday from 11 AM - 12:30 PM.

To register youth as a Boys and Girls Club Member, please call 715-779-3706 or visit the Red Cliff Boys and Girls Club webpage.
Treaty Natural Resources
WI DNR Requests Feedback on Wolf Hunt and Wild Rice Management
Public Comment on Fall 2o21 Wolf Harvest Season and
Future of Wolf Management open until May 15

The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) today announced it is seeking public input on the next 10 years of wolf management in Wisconsin. The DNR simultaneously requests public comment on the fall 2021 wolf harvest season through the same online input tool.

The public comment period will be open April 15 to May 15 during which the online input tool will available on the DNR Wolf management plan webpage.

As part of the management plan revision process, the DNR will convene a Wolf Management Plan Committee (WMPC). Ahead of the summer WMPC meetings, the DNR encourages the public to provide input on the next 10 years of wolf management in Wisconsin. 

Following the public comment period on wolf management's future in Wisconsin, the WMPC will provide input to the DNR for developing an updated wolf management plan. The committee will comprise stakeholder groups, including hunting/trapping organizations, wolf advocacy/education organizations and agricultural/ranching organizations. The DNR also reserves additional seats on the WMPC for invited tribal and governmental agencies, the Wisconsin Conservation Congress and DNR technical staff support.

The DNR will write an initial draft of the wolf plan, guided by science and input from the WMPC and the public. The draft plan will be made available for public review and comment. The DNR will then submit a final draft to the Natural Resources Board (NRB) for approval in mid-2022.

The DNR is also simultaneously working to prepare for a fall 2021 wolf harvest season through a transparent and science-based process. The DNR has convened a 2021 Wolf Harvest Advisory Committee to provide input on the fall season's management objectives and harvest quota. The committee will consider the current management plan, state statute and the February 2021 season report in providing input to the department.

Throughout the process, the DNR will also coordinate with tribal partners and seek further public input on harvest objectives.

Visit the DNR's website for more information on the wolf management plan and the Fall 2021 wolf harvest season.

Public Comment for Wild Rice Management open until June 7

The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is seeking public input on a draft Statewide Strategic Analysis of Wild Rice Management through June 7, 2021.

Wild rice is part of Wisconsin’s natural landscape. Beds of wild rice help maintain good water quality, and they provide food and habitat for waterfowl and many other types of wildlife. Protecting and managing wild rice will help ensure many wildlife species persevere for all to enjoy. Wild rice is also a culturally significant plant to Wisconsin’s Native American tribes, which have a personal and longstanding connection to wild rice.

The management of wild rice intersects with several DNR programs. The department chose to use the strategic analysis process to evaluate the range of scientific, natural resource and socioeconomic factors involved with protecting and encouraging the growth of wild rice. The purpose of the strategic analysis is to inform decision-makers and the public about current wild rice conditions, authorities and management practices, information gaps and alternative approaches.

A strategic analysis does not establish DNR policy or change existing rules. Instead, it will assist decision-makers, stakeholders and the public to better understand wild rice issues and make informed decisions about its management. This strategic analysis is the precursor to the development of a Statewide Wild Rice Management Plan.

“Wild rice is an amazing plant. Each year it grows from seed and transforms open waters into seas of grass, teeming with birds, mammals, insects, fish and other aquatic species,” said Jon Simonsen, DNR Environmental Analysis and Review Specialist.

“Whether you are familiar with wild rice or not, this analysis is intended to help anyone interested learn about wild rice and wild rice management.”

The public is encouraged to review and submit written comments to improve the accuracy, clarity and objectivity of the draft strategic analysis document by June 7, 2021 to:
Department of Natural Resources
c/o Jon Simonsen, DNR Rhinelander Service Center
107 Sutliff Ave., Rhinelander, WI 54501
 
Following the public comment period, the department will review the input and provide a summary of the comments received. The public will be notified once a final version of the Strategic Analysis is available.

To learn more about the Wild Rice Management Strategic Analysis, click here.
Housing Authority
Red Cliff Fish Company
You can find Red Cliff Fish Company trout and whitefish at the Chequamegon Food Co-op in downtown Ashland!

The Co-op has also started using Ojibwemowin signage throughout their market. Miigwech to the Co-op!
Legendary Waters Resort & Casino
News Across Indian Country
FEMA Offers Funeral Reimbursements
for COVID-19 Deaths
The Federal Emergency Management Agency is now offering financial assistance for COVID-19 related funeral expenses incurred after January 20, 2020.

How to Apply
Call 844-684-6333

Eligibility
  • The death must have occurred in the United States, including the U.S. territories, and the District of Columbia.
  • The death certificate must indicate the death was attributed to COVID-19.
  • The applicant must be a U.S. citizen, non-citizen national, or qualified alien who incurred funeral expenses after January 20, 2020.
  • There is no requirement for the deceased person to have been a U.S. citizen, non-citizen national, or qualified alien.

If you had COVID-19 funeral expenses, we encourage you to keep and gather documentation. Types of information should include:
  • An official death certificate that attributes the death directly or indirectly to COVID-19 and shows that the death occurred in the United States, including the U.S. territories, and the District of Columbia.
  • Funeral expenses documents (receipts, funeral home contract, etc.) that includes the applicant’s name, the deceased person’s name, the amount of funeral expenses, and the dates the funeral expenses happened.
  • Proof of funds received from other sources specifically for use toward funeral costs. We are not able to duplicate benefits received from burial or funeral insurance, financial assistance received from voluntary agencies, government agencies, or other sources.

Click HERE for details and information on the FEMA website.
Tribal Elder Food Preference Survey
The Great Lakes Inter-Tribal Council is looking for input from Tribal Elders regarding meal preferences. The survey has eight questions, and gathered data is expected to help the Bureau of Aging and Disability Elder Nutrition Program to potentially include Tribal dietary considerations in the Nutrition policy. Your responses could also assist your Tribal Aging Program Nutrition site in menu development.

If you are an Elder and interested in giving your input, please click HERE to take the survey or email [email protected].

Survey participants will be included in a prize drawing.

The deadline to give input is Friday April 30.
Red Cliff Tribal Administration Office 
88455 Pike Road 
Bayfield, Wi. 54814 
715-779-3700