Miisaninawiind :: Onaabani-Giizis :: March 16-22 2020
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 communications@redcliff-nsn.gov.

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Red Cliff News & Updates
Various Tribal programs, services, and events have been canceled or temporarily suspended in our efforts to prevent COVID-19 from entering our community. Notice for most of these closures can be found in this newsletter or on the Tribal Facebook page. This newsletter is published on Monday morning, and new closures and date changes may happen throughout the week, so please remember to call ahead of time.

Information on social distancing, testing recommendations, and other ways to stay healthy can be found in the Health & Wellness section below.
COVID-19 Community Update:
Council Continues Precautionary Measures
Tribal Court - Appear by Phone
The Red Cliff Tribal Court is requesting that effective immediately all persons scheduled for court appear by phone.

Individuals wishing to appear via phone must call the court to make the appropriate arrangements to appear.

The court can be reached at 715-779-3725.
Gordon Appointed to Governor's Tourism Council
Red Cliff Vice Chairman Nathan Gordon has been appointed by Governor Evers to a Marketing/Promotion Experience seat on the Wisconsin Governor’s Council of Tourism.

“Your experience, knowledge, and dedication will be a true asset to my administration and a great benefit to the people of Wisconsin,” wrote Governor Evers in a letter to Gordon. “I look forward to working with you to find innovative ways of delivering services and implementing positive change for the citizens of our state.”

Vice Chairman Gordon will succeed Apache Danforth to fill a partial term that expires this July. With this appointment, the opportunities to promote Red Cliff, Bayfield, and the surrounding area’s tourism offerings are growing.

“I’m excited and honored to be selected to the Council on Tourism,” said Gordon. “As we’re moving forward with our tourism team here, this appointment will help propel our area forward.”

The Governor’s Council on Tourism advises the Secretary on matters relating to tourism and serves as a sounding board to the agency as it develops and enacts the strategic plan to advance tourism.

Click HERE to view a current list of members that sit on the Governor’s Council on Tourism.

Gordon also serves on the Native American Tourism of Wisconsin Board of Directors. Click HERE for the NATOW website.
Supreme Court Justice Kelly Visits Red Cliff
Supreme Court Justice Daniel Kelly visited Red Cliff last week as part of the Red Cliff Tribal Court's interaction with the Wisconsin Tribal Judges Association (WTJA).

Red Cliff Tribal Court Associate Judge Gwendolyn Topping is currently serving as President of the WTJA. The Wisconsin Supreme Court appoints one of their Justices to serve as a liaison between the Supreme Court and WTJA, and Justice Kelly is currently the liaison.

Justice Kelly met with different Tribal departments and community members.

"I've wanted to do this for a long time and I am so glad I was able to come to Red Cliff," said Kelly.

Justice Kelly is visiting each of the eleven Tribal Courts in Wisconsin and began with Red Cliff.

"This visit is monumental in building State and Tribal relations," said Topping. "I am very proud of the relationship that our group has established with the Wisconsin Supreme Court and hope to continue to build on it."
Tribal Council Meeting - March 17
The next Tribal Council meeting will take place Tuesday, March 17 at the Red Cliff Community Health Center.

Community members are invited to attend the regular session beginning at 4:30 PM.

Click HERE for the meeting agenda.
April 7 Election - Consider Absentee Ballot
Because of the COVID-19, voters in Red Cliff are strongly urged to act now to vote absentee for the April 7 Spring Election and Presidential Preference Primary.

“Polls will be open in Bayfield and the Town of Russell for those who need them on Election Day, but most voters should vote absentee for this election,” said Clerk for the Town of Russell Dave Good. “For that to happen, you should request an absentee ballot as soon as possible.”

Acting by Wednesday, March 18, is especially important for anyone who needs to register to vote by mail, Good said. If your name or address has changed since the last election, you need to register with your current information. You can check your registration status at https://myvote.wi.gov, click on “My Voter Info.”

If you know you are registered but cannot find yourself on the website, you should contact your clerk or Wisconsin Elections Commission. There is possibly a typo in the spelling of your name or your date of birth. Voters who cannot find themselves on MyVote should call their municipal clerk’s office at 715-779-3284 or call the Wisconsin Elections Commission at 866-VOTE-WIS (866-868-3947) or 608-261-8005.

Contact Dave Good for more information at 715-779-3284.

Click HERE for more information on how to request an absentee ballot and how to register to vote.
Proposed Code of Law Changes
The Red Cliff Water and Sewer Department has proposed changes pertaining to Chapter 34 Water & Sewer Utilities of the Red Cliff Code of Laws.

Click HERE to view the notice and the proposed changes.

Public comment on this proposal is encouraged. Please drop your comments at the Tribal Administration Building, or forward them directly to the Tribal Council. This proposal will be voted upon on April 6, 2020 at the regular meeting of the Red Cliff Tribal Council. If the Council enacts these changes, the changes shall become effective upon enactment.
Wills Caravan Canceled
The Wills Caravan scheduled to be in Red Cliff on March 19 has been cancelled. Attorneys and Law Students will NOT be in Red Cliff to assist in drafting wills and other estate planning.

Notice from the Wisconsin Judicare Indian Law Office:

"In light of the spread of the Coronavirus (COVID 19) throughout the United States and worldwide, the 2020 Wills Caravan has been cancelled.

This decision was not easy to make, as we understand the importance of estate planning to Elders. However, ensuring the safety of the Tribes we visit, the participants, and the students and staff is top priority.

We will be alerting those with appointments of the cancellations.

Thank you for your understanding."

Wisconsin Judicare said they will contact those who indicated interest in estate planning at a later date.

Click HERE for the Wisconsin Judicare Indian Law Office website.
2020 Census: Complete Online or Via Phone
The U.S. Census is scheduled to start in the Red Cliff community on Monday, March 16 2020. Given the current health situation, we are working with the Census Bureau and local field staff to ensure that the health and safety of our community is highly considered.

At this time, we are encouraging residents to complete the Census through online or telephone methods if possible. The census can be taken online at www.2020census.gov or by calling 844-330-2020.

The Census has halted in-person operations. There will be no in-person Census takers until further notice. We do not in any way want to discourage participation but advise and strongly encourage the community to participate in the Census in the safest way possible.
TNR Listening Session, Community Feast
The Treaty Natural Resources Division is inviting all community members to a listening session and community feast centered around the drafted TNR Comprehensive Plan.

The Treaty Natural Resources Division has released a draft of its Comprehensive Plan, and is asking for community comment and feedback! The comment period for this draft is February 28 - April 8.

There will be a listening session and community feast scheduled for April 1, from 5-8 PM at Legendary Waters.

There is specific information in the Executive Summary (pg. 3) on how to submit comment and the timeline to finalize this Plan over the coming months.

View the drafted plan on the TNR webpage by clicking this link https://bit.ly/398HTjX
Scroll down to find "Treaty Natural Resources Division Comprehensive Plan 2020-2030."

Miigwech for providing feedback to Red Cliff TNR!
Veterans Fishing Outing
The North Wisconsin Rod & Gun Club is inviting veterans to spend a morning fishing on Lake Superior or Chequamegon Bay, followed by a fresh, locally-caught whitefish fish fry lunch on June 11, 2020.

Schedule:
8 AM - Leave marina / Second Landing
Noon - Return to shore
1 PM - Lunch at NWRGC clubhouse

Registration deadline is May 28. Contact Michelle Anderson to register.

Michelle Anderson, Bayfield County Veterans Service Officer
715-373-6137
manderson@bayfieldcounty.org
Health & Wellness
Social Distancing: Help Prevent COVID-19 Spread
Testing & Travel Recommendations
Clinic Offers Mammograms,
Breast Cancer Detection
Next Date: March 23
The Red Cliff Community Health Center offers monthly mammogram services for women in order to look for early signs of breast cancer. The next mammogram date is March 23 at the health clinic.

Call the clinic at 715-779-3707 ext 2230 to set up an appointment, or to find out other dates for mammogram services.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, regular mammograms are the best tests doctors have in order to find breast cancer early, sometimes up to three years before it can be felt.

Marshfield Clinic brings a mobile unit exam service with special x-ray equipment for conducting the mammograms. Results are streamed to Marshfield, and the Red Cliff clinic typically receives results back the following day. Women can choose between a 3D imaging test, or a normal 2D mammogram.

Click HERE to learn more about mammograms, how it’s done, what it feels like, and more information on the CDC website.
Nooji Sobriety Potluck Supper March 19
Please call ahead in case of cancellation.

The Noojimo'iwewin Center is hosting a Sobriety Potluck Supper on Thursday March 19 beginning at 5 PM at the Nooji Center.

Everyone is welcome and the food theme is centered around Hispanic cuisine.

For more information please call 715-779-3508.
Prenatal Gathering March 19
Please call ahead in case of cancellation.

Zaagichigaazowin Home Visiting Program will host a Prenatal Gathering on March 19 at the Red Cliff Community Health Center, from 2-4 PM.

Activities will focus on strength and relaxation during labor. Food, refreshments, and support will be provided.

Please contact Amaris at 715-779-3707 ext 2307 or Amanda at 715-779-3707 ext 2235
Cancer Support Group - March 19
Please call ahead in case of cancellation .

The Red Cliff Community Health Center is offering a monthly Cancer Support Group. The group will typically meet on the third Thursday of every month from 5-7 PM.

Have you been treated for cancer?
Do you or a loved one have cancer?
Are you a survivor?
Do you want someone to listen, share, learn , or support?

You are welcome to join us at the Red Cliff Community Health Center.

Click HERE for the 2020 meeting dates and more information.
Six Week Relapse Prevention Group
Sign up is still available for the Six Week Relapse Prevention Group. The group will meet weekly on Tuesdays through April 21 at the Mishomis Wellness Center.

Call the PSIT/AODA Services Coordinator at the Mishomis Wellness Center: 715-779-3741 ext 2403

Click HERE for more details on the group and for what you'll do at each group meeting.
Nooji Center Newsletter
The Noojimo'iwewin Center has released its March Newsletter!
Click HERE to view!

Click HERE to view the Nooji March Calendar.
Mishomis Wellness Center March Calendar
The Mishomis Wellness Center has released its March calendar of events.
Click HERE to view!
For other Health Center information or general questions call: 715-779-3707 or Email   RCHealthCenter@redcliffhealth.org

Click HERE to visit the Red Cliff Community Health Center website
Human & Family Services
Food Distribution Notice
Women's Group Canceled
The Women's Group offered through Family and Human Services is canceled until further notice.

The group typically meets on Tuesdays from 5-7 PM and is scheduled through May 26.

Please contact Steph or Nora for more information at 715-779-3706.
Education
Northern Wisconsin Outdoor Scholarship
Open to Youth and Adults
The spring 2020 round of applications for the Northern Wisconsin Outdoor Experiential Education Scholarship is now open.

This scholarship is designed to help youth (and adults!) of the Chequamegon Bay area participate in outdoor educational programs through programs like Outward Bound, Wilderness Inquiry or Northland College.
 
Apply by April 1st!

This scholarship pays up to $1000 to Chequamegon Bay area residents.

Follow the link above to find out more or contact the Duluth Superior Area Community Foundation at 218-726-0232.

Click HERE for the flyer!
Bayfield School Powwow Canceled
The Bayfield 12th Annual Powwow scheduled for April 4, 2020 has been canceled until further notice.

Questions/Vendors contact:
rlafernier@bayfield.k12.wi.us
20dlafernier@students.bayfield.k12.wi.us
715-779-3201 ext 420

Click HERE to visit the School District of Bayfield website.
Opportunities for Native American Students
Boys and Girls Club of Gitchigami
Youth Committee for Gathering Event
The Boys & Girls Club is creating a Youth Committee to help plan and be a part of setting up for the upcoming Boys & Girls Club Youth Gathering event.

Any youth (ages 8 to 18) interested in helping or getting involved with the upcoming Boys & Girls Club Gathering, please stop by the Club to talk with Paige or stop at Family & Human Services to talk with Collin.

Contact :
Paige Moilanen 715-779-3722
Collin Ludwig 715-779-3706
B&G March Calendar
The Boys & Girls Club have announced their calendar of events for March! Click HERE to see what activities they have going on this month.

Contact Youth Director Paige Moilanen at 715-779-3722 with any questions.
Member Survey - Win A Grand Prize Giveaway
The Boys & Girls Club of Gitchigami is looking for Club members' thoughts and opinions of the Club, and is asking all Club members aged 9-18 to participate in a brief survey. Club members that take the survey will get a chance to enter their name into a grand prize giveaway!

Club members can take the survey on March 17 or March 18 at the Boys & Girls Club during open club hours.

There will be two giveaways: one for ages 9-12 and another for ages 13-18.

If parents/guardians do not want youth to take part in the survey, then they must sign an Opt-Out Form.

If you have any questions, please call Paige Moilanen or Don Gordon III at 715-779-3722.
Gichiayaa'aag - Elderly Services
Bad River Aging Unit Luncheon - March 17
Library Trip - March 18
Library Trip 9:00 - 10:30 AM
Corny Day Trip - March 19
Corny Day Trip will leave at 9:30 AM
Senior Companion/Foster Grandparent Meeting
The Senior Companion/Foster Grandparent In-service Meeting will begin at 12:30 PM
on March 19 at the Elderly Center Meeting Room.
If interested in attending any of these events, please feel free to call Elderly Program a few days before scheduled event at 715-209-6892 or 715-779-3746

Click HERE for the entire Elderly Activity Menu for March
Elderly March Meal Menu
Click HERE for the Elderly Food Menu for March
Contact Elderly Services for more information:
Elderly Dining Site: 715-779-3746 ext. 3511
Office Phone: 715-779-3706 ext. 5018

Click HERE for the Elderly Nutrition Program Information.

Click HERE for the Gichiayaa'aag website.
Treaty Natural Resources
TNR Releases Comprehensive Plan
Seeks Community Comment
The Treaty Natural Resources Division has released it's Comprehensive Plan for community comment. The comment period for this draft is February 28 - April 8.

There will be a community outreach event and feast scheduled for the evening of April 1 at Legendary Waters.

There is specific information in the Executive Summary (pg. 3) on how to submit comment and the timeline to finalize this Plan over the coming months.

Click HERE to view the drafted TNR Comprehensive Plan.
Sign-up Open For Summer Programs!
Click HERE to view the Treaty Natural
Resources Division Winter Newsletter!
Events
Cancellations or rescheduling is possible. Please call ahead.
Legendary Waters Resort & Casino
Deals and Promotions
Click HERE to visit the Legendary Waters Resort and Casino website.
News Across Indian Country
Investigation Continues Into Northern Wisconsin Animal Poisonings
From WPR
By Megan Hart

The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service are seeking the public's help to investigate the poisoning deaths of several domestic dogs and a variety of wildlife in northern Wisconsin.

The investigation into the poisonings began in December 2018 after animals were found with no clear cause of death, said Lt. Bryan Harrenstein, warden supervisor in the northern area for the DNR. Since the investigation was announced in early 2019, two hunting beagles have been killed by poison in Forest County, according to a news release from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. The dogs became very ill after ingesting the poison and died shortly after, according to investigators.

Several wild animals have also been killed in Marinette County since the investigation was announced.

In all, about half a dozen dogs and wolves, as well as several raccoons, weasels and raptors, have been  killed by poison  in Marinette, Florence and Forest counties, Harrenstein said. Lab tests confirmed the animals were killed by toxic substances, the DNR said in a news release.

The animals ingested the poison on land open to the public, according to the release. Harrenstein said many of the animals were found on rural trails that can be accessed by vehicles. The DNR believes the poisonings are intentional due to the substances involved and the method of delivery, he said.

Though the investigation is currently focused on three counties, it’s possible other counties could be affected, according to the DNR.

The USFWS recommends anyone walking dogs in the area keep them on a leash and away from roadways. Harrenstein said the DNR does not plan to restrict people from walking dogs in the area.

"People are going to take their dogs out. We have hunting dogs or just the family pets people are taking for walks," he said. "It’s more of a cautionary thing, just be aware of where your dog is running."

Investigators are offering a reward of $1,000 for  any information  related to the poisonings that leads to an arrest or charges. The  legal consequences  for the poisonings could include fines and jail time, depending on which species are ultimately affected.

In 2019, Andrew Lundin, a lieutenant conservation warden with the DNR, told Wisconsin Public Radio someone could be targeting wolves to eliminate predators in the area.
Community Updates
Follow the link below to see announcements for upcoming events!

Red Cliff Tribal Administration Office 
88455 Pike Road 
Bayfield, Wi. 54814 
715-779-3700