Friday, May 26, 2017
Aaniin (what's up),

Welcome to the Wiindamaagewin, Lac View Desert's bi-monthly eNewsletter. Take a look around and find all that's happening in the community. You'll find important announcements and updates, meeting dates and times and other information!

Scroll down to see all that's happening at Lac Vieux Desert!

This week's Picture Share was submitted by the LVD Elderly Building. 
These photos are of giant jigsaw puzzles on loan from Gerdie McGeshick

 





Do you have a photo or an idea that you would like to see in the Wiindamaagewin?
If so send your photo or idea to communications@lvdtribal.com.
 
Meet Ryan Bain, LVD Health Center Intern and College Student

Ryan Bain is the first one to admit he didn't always take his high school career so serious. In fact he says, some of the challenges he faced in high school and as a new college student were the result of his own outlook. What were once challenges are now the fuel that drives Ryan to give 100 percent and more, in everything he does.

Bain is the new Lac Vieux Desert Health Center Chiropractic Intern studying under Dr. Draeger. His duties and responsibilities include greeting and ushering patients to and from their appointments, cleaning the exam room, observing both Dr. Draeger and Andi Lorti (physical therapist) and helping wherever he can.

The Finlandia University sophomore has transformed his outlook on life and his career in a remarkably short period of time. 

"In high school I didn't always use my time wisely and didn't take my education seriously," says Bain, who is currently pursuing a double major in the university's physical therapy assistant and health care management programs. 

Along with his studies, Bain also plays on the Finlandia Universtiy Lions men's basketball team as a point guard. 

He was inspired to got into the health care field in part by his own visit to the LVD chiropractor after suffering from a sore elbow.

"I knew I always wanted to go into the medical field but didn't really know," said Bain. "I went to the chiropractor here (LVD Health Center) and when I met him, I told him my elbow was hurting, and when I shook his hand and all of sudden he surprised - me he just pulled my arm. It cracked and it immediately felt better. It was just that joy made me feel good," shared Bain.

Another attractive aspect of being a chiropractor that appeals to Bain is the natural healing that accompanies it. 

"The holistic healing without medication is what I like about it. Just helping people is a good feeling," said Bain.

After finishing at Finlandia, Bain plans on furthering his chiropractic pursuits through enrolling at a yet-to-be determined school somewhere in Michigan.

Bain says he appreciates the opportunities afforded him and looks to capitalize on them through diligence and determination. He attributes much of his recent accomplishments to his father, who he says was a positive influence on his life.

Although he's only been at the LVD Health Center for three weeks, he says his experience has been nothing short of great. The level of professionalism at the health center is something he looks to emulate and build on. 

"The biggest thing for me right now is how professional everyone is here. Just the environment makes me want to elevate my own attitude. That and everyone is nice. Just being around the people here makes me a better person and that's the thing I'll take away most from here," shared Bain. 

Bain wants people, especially young people, to know that it's ok to be respectful and to have manners. 

"I was always taught to say please and thank you, and to be a gentleman," Bain adds. 

If it's one thing he hopes people can take away from him is his affection and fondness for the LVD community.

"When people say 'oh you're from a small town, you won't do anything,' or just being from a small school doesn't have to stop you," says Bain. "I enjoy being from a small town and going to a small school - it's cool being close to everyone; knowing everyone; being able to joke with everyone including the teachers is a good thing.  I look at it as an opportunity to do big things; to make everyone you know proud."

It's safe to say Bain has come a long way from where he was just a few short years ago. His growth and maturity were recognized when he recently received a Trio Award at Finlandia for the most improved grade point average.

"If I could tell young people one thing I would say 'don't quit.' You're going to want to. It's going to get tough - in everything you do. Just keep grinding, stick with it. There will be adversity but it will get better regardless of how many set-backs you have."
LVD Casino unveils new renovations as larger remodeling project continues

Chairman James Williams Jr, Vice Chairwoman Giiwe Martin, Councilmen Henry Smith and Tyrone McGeshick are joined by GM Gary Murrey, casino staff and patrons in unveiling the newly remodeled south side of the casino floor.
It's been a long process but the finish line is clearly in sight for Lac Vieux Desert Resort Casinos remodeling project. 


General Manager Gary Murrey says the final unveiling and relaunch of the casino will be sometime near the end of July. However, to celebrate the progress and unveil the completed renovations to the casino's south floor, the property held a "Half Way There" celebration on Friday, May 19. 

The event included a public ribbon cutting ceremony by tribal chairman James Williams Jr., champagne toast and hors d'oeuvres.

New table game pit.
Murrey says the remodeling project is part of a larger rebranding launch reflective of the tribe's culture and community spirit.

"When I was hired on about nine months ago, one of my core goals from the council was to create a new look and feel and brand the resort," said Murrey of the 20 year old building. "It was definitely feeling its age and other properties continue to upgrade," Murrey added.

New back bar.
The casino's executive management team along with the tribal council have created a two-year plan to renovate the casino.

Murrey says nearly one-third of the casino's hotel rooms have been updated and renovated as well as the completion of a new food court just off of the casino's main gaming floor. That was phase one says Murrey. 

Phase two of the project included the renovations and upgrades made to the south side of the casino gaming floor. This changes included a raised floor system which allows for relatively smooth technological advancements.

Casino south floor.
"The old 70s  look with the neon was old and tired and the council wanted to go with embracing the northwoods and the culture," said Murrey. "All of the tones and colors and materials are more of the earth tones; we're putting a lot of wood on the walls," added Murrey.

Murrey says the new decor will provide a friendlier, warm feel. 

The third phase, which has already begun, will focus on the north side of the casino gaming floor and will take approximately six weeks to complete. 

Phase four will include a complete overhaul of the casino bar and entertainment center. 

New gaming machines.

"We're going to create a unique environment with a sports bar that is its own entity," said Murrey. "It will be closed off from the casino and have its own entrance."

Along with the new look and feel, the casino's entertainment offering will also see huge changes. The bar and event center will see new level of music, entertainment and sporting events.

The fifth phase of the project will see the restaurant buffet get a face lift with plans for roughly one-third of the current seating to be made into a fine-dining area. The vision is to offer an intimate atmosphere while providing upscale food and customer service. 

"By providing a higher end, quality dining experience we hope to fill every every person's desire and taste," says Murrey. 

The new brand is yet to be determined and the casino is currently considering names for each of the newly remodeled areas. The new brand will reflect the Ojibwe culture and values of the Lac Vieux Desert tribe. Once the interior renovations are completed, the exterior of the property will get a new look as well. 

Murrey says the entire project was the vision of the tribal council.

"They were the ones who wanted to embrace the culture and feel of the northwoods," says Murrey. "This entire project includes providing training for employees and a new feel."

Casino patron Don Basch says the new improvements have already made a big impact for him.

"Everything is excellent - all the changes are great," said Basch, who resides in Golden Valley, MN, but visits Lac Vieux Desert every year. "Everything is looking real nice. I would call it the new awesome.The food is great and I love the changes."
About Our Head Start & Early Head Start Programs

Head Start & Early Head Start is a federal program that promotes the school readiness of children ages birth to five from low-income families by enhancing their cognitive, social, and emotion development.
Head Start & Early Head Start programs provide a learning environment that supports children's growth in the following domains:
  • Language and literacy
  • Cognition and general knowledge
  • Physical development and health
  • Social and emotional development
  • Approaches to learning
Head Start & Early Head Start programs provide comprehensive services to enrolled children and their families, which include health, nutrition, social, and other services determined to be necessary by family needs assessments, in addition to education and cognitive development services. Head Start & Early Head Start services are designed to be responsive to be responsive to each child and family's ethnic, cultural, and linguistic heritage.

Head Start & Early Head Start emphasizes the role of parents as their child's first and most important teacher. Head Start & Early Head Start programs build relationships with families that support:
  • Family well-being and positive parent-child relationships
  • Families as learners and lifelong educators
  • Family engagement in transitions
  • Family connections to peers and community
  • Families as advocates and leaders
Head Start & Early Head Start Services

Head Start serves preschool-age children and their families. Early Head Start infants, toddlers, pregnant women, and their families who have incomes below the federal poverty level.

Over a million children are served by Head Start & Early Head Start programs every year, including children in every U.S. state and territory and in American Indian/Alaska Native Communities. Since 1965, nearly 30 million low-income children and their families have received these comprehensive services to increase their school readiness.

About our Head Start & Early Head Start Center

Early Head Start is a program for children 5 weeks - 3 years of age. We enroll 32 children in the Early Head Start program. Enrollment is based on the needs of the family with Native American preference given. There is 1 teacher for every 4 children. Teachers are required to have a CDA (Child Development Associates, which is obtained through on-line classes and training) or an Associate's Degree in Early Childhood Education (which is obtained through a College). Early Head Start is a full year program that runs Monday - Thursday, from 7:00 am - 1:00 pm, and ½ day Friday 7:00 am - 10:30 am.

Head Start is a program for children 3 - 5 years of age. We enroll 24 children in the Head Start program. Again, enrollment is based on the needs of the family with Native American preference given. There is 1 teacher and 1 aid for every 12 children. Teachers are required to have an Associate's degree in Early Childhood Education but will soon be required to have a Bachelor's degree. Head Start is a partial year program that runs from September to May, Monday - Thursday, 7:00 am - 1:00 pm.
 
The LVD Head Start & Early Head Start Program offers:
  • Educated and caring Staff
  • Ongoing assessments and screenings
  • Home visits and Teacher conferences
  • Nutritious meals
  • Parent Involvement
  • Confidentiality
  • Transportation/Field trip
  • Free Early Childhood Education Services for your child
Head Start and Early Start provide direct and indirect services for families. We can assist the family in improving the conditions and quality of family life. We offer referrals in the areas of housing, clothing, food qualified staff that educate and nurture children 5 weeks - 5 years of age.

About Sherri Cobb, Director LVD Head Start & Early Head Start Program 

I have worked for the  Head Start & Early Head Start programs for 19 and a half years. It will be 20 years in September.

I started as a Disability Aid in the Head Start Program, and then worked as an Early Head Start Teacher before becoming Center Director in 2002.

I have currently been the center director for 15 years.

I am here not for the money, as any school teacher can tell you, it's for the overall well being of my students, their families, and the community.

The success of this program belongs to my very dedicated, well educated, and hard working staff. Without them there would not be a program at all.

2 years ago we started a pilot program, through the Ojibwe Language Grant, introducing the Ojibwe language to the students both very young (5 weeks) up to the eldest (5 years). Our language instructor, Mr. Frank Young has been wonderful with the students! The students have shown so much pride in being able to speak their language. They work daily on greetings, their colors, their numbers, their animal names, and songs. Mr. Frank also drums daily in each classroom. His approach to teaching is a hands on approach as this is how young students learn best.

Our Program is part of the Lac du Flambeau Foster Grandparents program; we currently have 5 grandparents that work in 5 out of our 6 rooms. They are all so very helpful and wonderful to have. The students and teachers just love having them be a part of their classroom.  

Lac Vieux Desert Head Start & Early Head Start have been involved in the Honoring our Children Initiative for the past 5 years. The purpose of this Initiative is to engage Tribal Leaders and Tribal Citizens in creating a plan to improve the full range of factors important to the well-being of Tribal Children ages 0 - 8, including quality education, safe communities, and good health. With this grant we have:
  • Held community training's
  • Purchased gardening supplies for the Green House
  • Purchased MYPLATES to encourage healthy eating and nutrition
  • Purchased items for our Ojibwe Language classroom
  • Funded Ojibwe Education Teacher field-trips
  • Provided our Head Start classroom with a new interactive Smart Board
  • Provided both our Head Start rooms with 24 new Mini I-Pad
  • Provided our older Toddler room with 2 ISMART interactive computers
  • Provided parents with interactive Ojibwe learning materials to encourage family engagement and promote school readiness skills.
We send out a parent calendar at the beginning of the school year. On that calendar we have special events like, family dinners, family fun days, special mother/father days, and any closures through the year. We very much encourage parent involvement. Parents are encouraged to volunteer at any time.
 
In the future I would like to see all of us in a new, more efficient, smaller building, maybe across from the clinic. 
Notices and  Announcements
LVD Community Clean Up 2017

Who:
LVD Tribal Households within the LVD community. Unfortunately No businesses or non-tribal households will be included.
Where: 
North (Watersmeet) End of Reservation.
When:
May 30th - June 2nd

Reminder! 
June 3rd - Hazardous Waste drop off 
is located in front of the Building Trades Facility on Transfer Station Road. Anyone wishing to drop off early should contact Beth for access to the transfer station hazardous collection site at the transfer station, for drop off.
Beth's Cell Phone Number is (906) 287-1336.

Repeated: 
 June 12th - June 16th
Where: 
 South (Village) End of Reservation.
When: 
June 5th - June 9th


 

Please place waste on the curbside for pick-up by 8 am on the designated days for each end of the reservation.

  • Unacceptable items will be left at curbside.
  • Don't forget to clean-out those crawl spaces
  • If you have not been serviced by the last day of the Community clean-up, please call (906) 287-1913.
Prohibited Items:
  • Hazardous Waste 
  • Florescent Bulbs
  • Explosives 
  • Oil & Filters
  • Radioactive Waste 
  • Pesticides
  • Paint 
  • Propane Tanks
  • Anti-Freeze/coolants 
  • Solvents
  • Batteries
  • No TIRES! 
Please make every effort to keep Household garbage/trash separate at curbside

If you have any questions please contact Bruce LaPointe at (906) 395-1302.

Let's have fun, be safe and give the community's environment and resources the respect they deserve!  
Hazardous Waste Collection


M ichigan Indian Legal Services  (MILS)
On Site at LVD

Tuesday June 6 through Thursday June 8, 2017
7:00 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.

Legal Help for Low Income
Lac Vieux Desert Band Community Members

Do you need advice or assistance with a civil legal problem  and you think your income may fall lower than federal poverty guidelines? If so, a MILS attorney will be on site on the above referenced dates:

At the LVD Tribal Court - in the Conference Room
(NO APPOINTMENT NECESSARY)

Civil legal aid issues MAY include:
  • Family Law
  • Housing - eviction from tribal public housing
  • Child Welfare and the Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA)
  • Juvenile Delinquency cases
  • Per Capita - Garnishment and attachment of per capita distributions
  • Health Care and Welfare Benefits 

Please bring all paperwork related to your legal problem.


*MILS may also provide criminal defense representation by appointment of the Tribal Court.

If you have any questions or would like more information please call 1-800-968-6877.

Great Lakes Inter-Tribal Council Native American Research Center for Health

SAVE THE DATES
 
GLITC Native American Research Center for Health (NARCH) Program is involved with several events coming up in 2017. Please mark your calendars now and feel free to share the info with any of your friends, coworkers and/or students who may be interested as well. More detailed information can be found on www.glitc.org.  Go to Programs >  Education >  Native American Research Center for Health >  Student Options.  You can also contact Natalia at ngraf@glitc.org or (715) 588-1018. Look for us at "Great Lakes NARCH" on Facebook.
 
American Indian Science Scholars Week                   July 23-August 2, 2017
Held in Milwaukee, WI
Geared to high school students (freshman year completed), have a GPA of 2.5 or higher, and live in Wisconsin, Michigan, or Minnesota.
Purpose: This is a 10-day on campus experience giving American Indian students an introduction to college life, which involves interactive scientific and cultural experiences. A wide array of science topics is explored; some past ones have included forensics/DNA evidence, field station work, management of water resources, microbiology, and hematology. Exploration takes place through tours, hand-on activities, and interactive visits at various Milwaukee area colleges and universities.
Cost: FREE


Summer Internship                                                                Summer 2017             
Geared  to Native American college students from Wisconsin, Michigan, and Minnesota entering their sophomore, junior, or senior year. The internship is a time of academic mentoring and summer research experiences during the undergraduate years. Students approved for this program will work with identified research mentors in PAID research internships at selected universities and colleges. Students will have the opportunity to work closely with mentors on research projects that are directly addressing health issues in American Indian communities.

Students must complete an application process. More details on the website 

Great Lakes Indian Fish and Wildlife Commission 
2017 Onji-Akiing Summer Camp

 


Visit:  https://www.glifwc.org/Events/2017camp.pdf for more information.
Click here to view the application:  Onji-Akiig application 2017


Mondays
N8V Dance Fitness LVD! Youth session: Mondays at 3:30 pm, Adult session now at 4:30 pm. Let's get ready for all of those spring and summer pow-wows!
Wednesdays
Movie night at the Rec Center at 5:00 pm
Fridays & Saturdays   February    
Regalia making class at LVD THPO. Fridays 3:00  to 9:00 pm and Saturdays 9:00 am to 3:00 pm.


Department News
The Gathering Place

T he Gathering Place has many great things happening for 
our Elders and community!

Elders Game Nights -
Mondays and Fridays starting at 6:00 pm. 

Elders Movie Nights -
Thursdays at 6:00 pm.

Elders Shopping -
Every other Friday. Leaving the Gathering Place at 9:15 am.

Lac Vieux Desert
Movies at LVD Library 

Looking for great entertainment ideas?

How about checking out all the great selections at the LVD Library! 
Below are just a few  of the many movies available.

New movies include:
  • Sleepless
  • Hidden Figures
  • Lion
  • Bye Bye Man
  • Split
New Books:
  • Shoe Dog by Phil Knight
  • The Myth of the Strong Leader by Archie Brown



REC Center

Rec Center Hours

Contact Us: 906-358-2236


Monday - Thursday  10 am - 7 pm
Friday 10 am - 8 pm
Saturday 9 am - 8 pm 
Sunday 9 am - 7 pm

Lac Vieux Desert Education
 

Head Start Enrollment Period
   
Dear Parents,
 
Lac Vieux Desert Head Start and Early Head Start enrollment period for the 2017-2018 school year is underway. At this point you should have filled out a pre-application and turned in check stubs to assist us with the selection process. Our goal is to notify eligible participants by July 21st, 2017, through letter by mail.
 
The selection process for Head Start & Early Head Start is based on a point system. This point system is used along with the pre-application in selecting applicants for enrollment. Based on the point system, the indicated needs, and the eligibility criteria in accordance with the Head Start Federal Regulations will determine weather or not your child is accepted into the Head Start & Early Head Start programs.
 
I would like to thank everyone that has given our programs the pleasure to work with you and your children. We take the lives of your children seriously and consider them "our family". Every child that has come here will touch our lives in many special ways. These children will have a great "head start" in their lives. I have a very caring, hard working, and dedicated staff. It is nothing for them to give me 100% everyday. We have a hard working Parent Committee and our Center has always thrived for excellence. I wish we could accommodate everyone that applies with us, however; we do have a limited number of slots available and eligibility guidelines to follow.
 
I am always on the lookout for different types of grants, or ways to serve more children and families, one of my biggest goals is to get us a more efficient facility. If you have any questions please feel free to give me a call at 906-358-4944.
 
Sincerely,
 
Sheri Codd
Lac Vieux Desert Head Start & Early Head Start
Center Director 


Lac Vieux Desert Health Center
 
Purchase and Preferred Care


If you or a loved one has gone to the emergency room, please notify the Lac Vieux Desert Health Center within 72 hours. (30 days for Elders)
 
According the PRC guidelines, Emergency services are for life threatening circumstances only, as determined by the attending physician's statement.
 
All PRC cases are subject to review, prior to final payment authorization.
 
PRC is the payer of last resort and everyone is required to apply for an alternate resource in order to be approved.
 
PRC is formerly known as Contract Health


 Click here to download the "We Are Connected" flyer!
May is National STROKE Awareness Month


Use the letters in "fast" to spot stroke signs and know when to call 9-1-1
 
F ACE DROOPING
Does one side of the face droop or is it numb? Ask the person to smile. Is the person's smile uneven or lopsided?
 
A RM WEAKNESS
Is one arm weak or numb? Ask the person to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward?
 
S PEECH DIFFICULTY
Is speech slurred? Is the person unable to speak or hard to understand? Ask the person to repeat a simple sentence, like "The sky is blue." Is the person able to correctly repeat the words?
 
T IME TO CALL 9-1-1
If someone shows any of these symptoms, even if the symptoms go away,         call 9-1-1 and say, "I think this is a stroke" to help get the person to the hospital immediately.
 
Time is important! Don't delay, and also note the time when the first symptoms appeared.  Emergency responders will want to know.

More about stroke
Immediately call 9-1-1 or the Emergency Medical Services (EMS) number so an ambulance can be sent. Also, check the time so you'll know when the first symptoms appeared. A clot-busting drug called tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) may improve the chances of getting better but only if you get them help right away.

A TIA or transient ischemic attack is a "warning stroke" or "mini-stroke" that produces stroke-like symptoms. TIA symptoms usually only last a few minutes but, if left untreated, people who have TIAs have a high risk of stroke. Recognizing and treating TIAs can reduce the risk of a major stroke.
 
Beyond F.A.S.T. - Other Symptoms You Should Know
  • Sudden numbness or weakness of the leg
  • Sudden confusion or trouble understanding
  • Sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes
  • Sudden trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance or coordination
  • Sudden severe headache with no known cause
Keep your stroke risks low with regular checkups and treatment for these conditions if you have them.
  • High Blood Pressure Smoking
  • Diabetes
  • Diet
  • Physical Activity
  • Obesity
  • High Blood Cholesterol
  • Carotid Artery Disease
  • Peripheral Artery Disease
  • Atrial Fibrillation
  • Other Heart Disease
  • Sickle Cell Disease

To view more information about these facts please click here

 

You can't control some risk factors, but knowing that they exist may help motivate you to work harder on the ones you can change.

 

  • Age matters.
  • A family history of stroke can raise your risk.
  • Race can make a difference. 
  • Your sex (gender) can affect your risks.
  • Prior stroke, TIA or heart attack can raise your risk. 
  • Geographic location can make a difference. 
  • Socioeconomic factors may have an impact. 
  • Alcohol abuse can raise risk multiple.
  • Drug abuse is associated with increased risk. 
  • Sleep habits can affect stroke risk factors. 
  •  

     

    To view more information about these facts please click here


    Whether your risks are related to changeable factors or are primarily outside of your control, you can benefit your heart and your brain with healthy lifestyle choices.
     

    Lac Vieux Desert BALAC
     
    Spring Summer Fitness Series

    Click here for the printable forms

    Getegitigaaning Ojibwe Nation 
    Historic Preservation

    Ojibwe Language

    Ojibwemowin classes Sunday evening 5:00 -6:30 PM and Wednesday evening from 5:00 - 6:30 PM. 

    We look forward to seeing you there!



    Getegitigaaning Ojibwe Nation
    Lac Vieux Desert Band of Lake Superior Chippewa Indians
     Ojibwemowin Calendar 



    _______________________________________________________________


    New selection of beads,  bling, military patches,  ect. - come on in to check it out!

    Education
    Summer Skills Camp 2017

    During the summer of 2017, Watersmeet Township School District will be holding a K - 12
    Summer Skills Camp for those students that live within the School District's boundaries.

    Summer Skills Camp will be offered (Monday through Thursday) during the weeks of:
    June 26th - 29th
    July 10th -13th
    July 17th - 20th
    July 24th - 27th
    July 31st - August 3rd
    August 7th - 10th

    The day will start at 8:30 am with breakfast for all of our summer school students and finish at noon with lunch being served. Parents  will need to pick up their students after lunch by 12:30 pm.

    We are excited about this opportunity to provide the Summer Skills Camp and these two meals throughout this program as well as providing academic programs to enhance our student's  learning.

    This year, the Summer Skills Camp will be divided up in the following manner:
    Ms. Sartori - Grade Kindergarten
    Ms. Liddell - Grades 1st & 2nd
    Mr. Pallin - Grades 3rd & 4th
    Mrs. Kruscik - Grade 5th & 6th
    Mr. Basanese - Grade 7th - 8th On-line Credit Recovery Grades 9th - 12th

    The Summer Skills Camp is open to all of our Watersmeet Township School District students that live within the school  district boundaries. 

    Let's make it a great summer!!
    AISES Scholarships

    The American Indian Science and Engineering Society (AISES) helps students move forward in their educational journeys by providing a wide range of programs and scholarship opportunities.  AISES scholarships help students acquire skills and training that will help them meet the unique STEM needs of our communities.  We highly encourage you to apply for all the scholarships you are eligible for!
    To apply, you must be an AISES member.  To receive regular updates about scholarship opportunities, internship opportunities, the National Conference, the Leadership Summit, and other AISES programs and events-become a member today!  You can learn more about AISES membership and sign up at:http://www.aises.org/membership.

    Scholarship Information from LVD Education Department

    Please use the links below to find additional resources.




    High School Seniors  and 
    College Students

    Here is another scholarship you may be interested in applying for soon from the Michigan Indian Elders Associations (MIEA). They will be including the information on their website soon. Check the link below to stay information of the opportunities and deadlines.
     
    Also, the Education Department has twice mailed the Student Incentive Program to you from the MIEA. Students, please work hard at your studies and apply for this incentive program. We want to hear your names announced at the Spring MIEA Conference. Website is:  http://michiganindianelders.org/students .   


    LVD Child Welfare
    Indian Child Welfare Committee 

    The Indian Child Welfare Committee meets every 3rd Wednesday of the month at 1:00 pm. 

    Indian Child Welfare Committee By-Laws Section V 502.

    Anyone wishing to address Indian Child Welfare concerns must direct a request for placement on the ICWC agenda to the Department of Social Services Director or the ICWC Secretary, in writing, before the first of the month in which they wish to have their concerns considered.



    LVD Social Services
    Lac Vieux Desert Social Services 
    Mission Statement

    The Lac Vieux Desert Social Services Department provides ongonig service to all Tribal and Community members. We provide support, guidance, and respect to individuals. We do not look down upon those who are less fortunate nor treat others as if they were better. We accept that all of us make errors in our lives and come across hard times. We always remember that to gain a friend we must first be one.

    Food Distribution Calendar for Watersmeet

    DeeDee McGeshick, Social Services Director
    P.O. Box 249, Watersmeet, MI 49969
    (906) 358-4940 * (906) 366-7007 * Fax (906) 358-4900

    Mission Statement

    The intent of the In-Home Children's Assistance Program 
    is to assist Native American families in our service area with the cost of
    full time, part time, after school and summer childcare for kids 12 and under.
          • This program is based on income eligibility.
          • Providers must meet license requirements.
          • Homes must be licensed for safety.
          • Applications are available at the Social Services departments.               Stop in or call for an application.



    LVD & HUD Housing


    The Lac Vieux Desert Housing Department is happy to announce that we have moved back into our previous offices at E23960 Poplar Drive at Project 1 !  Anna and Al are quite pleased to be back in the middle of things and look forward to seeing everyone on a regular and convenient basis. Being back in the community allows quicker access to services and provides a level of follow up the tenants will enjoy.

    It should be noted that the Housing offices may still be reached through the main Administration telephone number at (906) 358-4577 extension 4317 or  cell number (906) 366-0812.

    This year, the Housing Department will provide lawn mowers to residents who need one to keep their lawns cut and tidy. The lawn mower availability will be on first come first served basis but with a little persistence you will be able to use one to cut your lawn.

    The Housing Department wishes you a great Spring and looks forward to being your "new neighbor".


    Employment and Career  Opportunities
     

    ___________________________________________________
     Click here to view this announcement
    ___________________________________________________

    Click here to view this announcement

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    Tribal Directory
    Lac Vieux Desert Tribal Council

    Tribal Chairman
    James Williams Jr.

    Vice Chairwoman
    Giiwegiizhigookway Martin

    Secretary
    Gertie McGeshick

    Treasurer
    Suzie McGeshick

    Council Members
    Mike Hazen, Jr.
    Shelly Hazen
    Henry Smith
    Tyrone McGeshick
    Mitchell McGeshick
                                               
    Tribal Administration

    Main Phone  (906) 358-4577

    Chairman:  James Williams Jr.
    Vice Chairwoman: Giiwegiizhigookway Martin
    Treasurer:  Suzie McGeshick 
    Executive Tribal Secretary:  Gertie McGeshick
     
    Tribal Offices

    Accounting
    (906) 358-4577 ext. 4153
    Director: Will Londo

    Building Trades 
    Director: John Staff ext. 4134 

    Child Development Center
    (906) 358-4944
    Director: Sheri Codd

    Clinic
    (906) 358-4587 
    Director: Sadie Valliere 

    Cultural & Historic Preservation
    (906) 358-0137
    Daisy McGeshick

    Education 
    (906) 358-4041   
    Director: June Smith

    Enrollment
    (906) 358-5477
    Clerk: Toni Williams
                               
    Environmental
     OfficerBeth Spedowski 

    Gathering Place
    (906) 358-0300
    Director:  Shasta Klingman
     
     
     
    Heavy Equipment
    (906) 358-0312
    Director: Robbie Garrison
    HUD Housing
    (906) 358-0344 x 4128
    Director:  Albert Schenk

    Human Resources
    (906) 358-4226 ext.7317
    Director: Delores Williams

    ICW
    (906) 358-4940
    Maris Van Zile

    LVD Housing
    (906) 358-4577
    Director: Linda Beck

    Pharmacy
    (906) 358-4905
    Kim Ivey

     
    Social Services
    (906) 358-4940
    Director: Dee Dee McGeschick

    Tribal Court
    (906) 358-0330
    Judge: Mark Esqueda
    Court Receptionist/Secretary: Laura McIllhenney
    ext. 4305
    Court Clerk: Howard Caron ext. 4107
    Probation: Don Nordstrom ext. 4303

    Tribal Maintenance and Construction
    (906) 358-0311
    Director: Wenzel Bain

    Tribal Planner
    Bruce LaPointe
    (906) 358-4577 ext. 4199

    Tribal Police
    (906) 358-4313
    Captain: Richard Burke
                                  
                                Wellness Center                                (906) 358-0252 
    Office Coordinator: Tammy Tuttle
    Lac Vieux Desert Band of Lake Superior Chippewa Indians
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