B AY M I L L S N E W SServing the Eastern Upper Peninsula

“Gnoozhekaaning Bidajimowin” August 2019

BMCC offers newtraining program BAY MILLS- For those seeking additionaleducation, but not inside of a “traditional” class-room setting, Bay Mills Community Collegemight have the answer. BMCC is offering the Pre-apprenticeshipCenter of Excellence (PACE) technical program,which is structured to provide a broad knowledgebase of training within key elements of advancedmanufacturing using the vehicle of plastics andcomposites to better prepare individuals forhigher technical career opportunities. According to instructor and Great LakesComposites Institute Technical Director, Dr.Chris Griffen, through a series of courses, whichare between two and three weeks each, studentswill get training that would allow them to “walkon” to many manufacturing positions with avaluable skillset. Griffen, who will instruct, along with mem-bers of BMCC faculty and industry leaders, willguide the students through the program. Whilecredits are not earned, each individual that com-pletes the 11-course program will receive a cer-tificate of completion from BMCC. Anotherbenefit of the program is that the courses arebeing offered free of charge. In order to to regis-ter, you must have a high school diploma orGED. Courses will take place at BMCC’s maincampus and the Great Lakes Composites Insti-tute. The first course in the program will begin onSept. 3, with a registration end date of Aug. 31.Anyone interested in the program is encouragedto call Elaine Lehre for registration details. Lehrecan be reached at 906-248-8422 or via e-mail atelehre@bmcc.edu.

CHIPPEWA COUNTY - Chippewa County Sheriff Mike Bitnar was involved in an off-dutyvehicle accident earlier this month on Aug. 10. While traveling west bound on M-28 in a Prius, aneast bound vehicle entered his lane completely causing a head on/side swipe accident, ending onlyafter his vehicle rolled four times. The sheriff sustained serious internal injuries and was admittedto War Memorial Hospital. Although he was released, he was readmitted a short time after for emergency surgery and re-mains in the intensive care unit at War Memorial. Undersheriff Greg Postma has assumed the sheriff’s duties while Bitnar continues to recover.Postma has also been keeping the public updated on Bitnar’s condition, via Facebook, while he re-ceives treatment. As of press time, Postma posted “His condition has begun to stabilize and he is noticing somesmall improvements. To those of us watching him and following his condition, those improvementsseem slow and perhaps insignificant but they all indicate that he is now headed to what we hope tobe a full recovery. I spoke with him and his family this morning and they have told me that he willlikely remain in ICU for at least another five days. As always, your continued support and prayershave been, and continue to be, overwhelming; please keep them coming.” Postma noted he will continue to post updates on Sheriff Bitnar’s condition every few days.

Update given on Sheriff Mike Bitnar

OPEN FOR BUSINESS- The Bay Mills/Brimley Farmer’s Market kicked off the season on July 25and will continue to run through October. This year a pavilion was built by the Bay Mills Constructioncrew, which will keep the vendors and customers protected from the elements. The structure, locatedon Plantation Road, will also be hosting site for community events. The market is open each Thursdayfrom 4 to 7 p.m. Nearly two dozen vendors will be offering their fresh fruits, vegetables, baked goods,and crafts.

BAY MILLS - Bay Mills Executive Council meets on the sec-ond and fourth Monday of each month. Here are the reports fromthe last two meetings: July 23 After approving minutes from the prior meeting, councilmoved into reports. In Chairman Bryan Newland’s report, he noted that the USDAapplication for Health Center funding was awaiting the opinionof a CPA. He also discussed a review of the lot list for PlantationHills, as many members on the list have purchased homes sinceplacing their name in for a lot. Meetings continue in regards totreaty fishing negotiations and all parties are scheduled to meetagain on Aug. 22. OCS will accept the lease proposal that waspreviously made by BMIC. The Health Center is also working tobecome a VA-certified provider. In Tribal Manager Duane Bedell’s report, he noted that he isworking on the final submission for a federal transit grant, Plan-tation Hills design issues with engineers, and that he would be at-tending the farmer’s market blessing on July 25. In CFO Albert Bertram’s report, he discussed design regardingthe new health center, Plantation Hills bids, and that he is lookingat how to utilize new market tax credits for the health center proj-ect. In personnel, Human Resources Director Kendal Perron saidKronos is a work in progress and the transition is taking a bitlonger than expected. The new referral program for employeesseems to be working out and helping BMRC fill some empty po-sitions. BMRC General Manager Richard LeBlanc noted he is lookingat vacating use of some machines to free up floor space for newones. BMRC is also working on a new promotions schedule. In new business, the following items were approved: - A lease cancellation and a lease; -Grant applications for tribal victims services, Indian HousingBlock Grant, Arts mini-grant, and a Rural Recycling Grant -Acceptance of a grant for the Boys & Girls Club for mentor-ing programs; -Contract for Forest Management Plan with the BIA, whichwill allow biology to move forward; -Cottage food laws for the farmer’s market; -Contract agreement for mobile app for the Tribal Action Plan; -Mural design for the farmer’s market; -Employee Fest donation; -School clothing assistance program funding in the amount of$10,200; and

-Poll votes reaffirmed. Aug. 12 After approving meeting minutes from July 23, the councilmoved into reports. In the Chairman’s report, Newland discussed ongoing tribalfishing negotiations, the court victory for the Indian Child Wel-fare Act, and upcoming events. Tribal Manager Bedell reported he is working on other waysto keep the firefighters employed, since the Bureau of Indian Af-fairs will no longer be providing base funding. He also discussedthe near completion of the conservation garage and said the nextproject will be the sand filter for the public works crew. CFO Bertram noted the issues continue with migrating theKronos system, due to the many updates needed to move the sys-tem to the current platform. He also discussed the possibility ofa platform that would allow the Pow Wow to receive electronicdonations and payments. In the Health Director’s report, Audrey Breakie said they arelooking at a new x-ray machine for the health center and the EMScredentialing has been completed. BMRC GM LeBlanc said the casino is looking at upgradingsurveillance due to technical issues. He also reported that he isgetting feedback from food and beverage reps about the offeringsat the resort. The chiller at Wild Bluff Golf Course is in need ofwork, but LeBlanc hopes to make it until next year for a replace-ment. RV park occupancy and hotel occupancy are on the positiveside and BMRC continues to evaluate marketing opportunities. In old business, the council tabled discussion of appointing ahealth board member. The overall mission of the health board willbe discussed before an appointment is made. In new business, the council approved the following items: -Support for residents of Sugar Island in dealing with ice is-sues; -Trust Management Ordinance: to avoid conflicts of interestand protect the elder’s trust; - CTV Attestation for BMRC; - Health Center credentialing plan; - Health Center policies; -MILCSA Tribal Ordinance, which dictates how earnings canbe spent, not the principal; -Contractor for Plantation Hills work; -Nonmember request for residency; -Liquor license for the elder’s center; -Address list for Boys & Girls Club; and -Poll votes. The next meeting of the Bay Mills Executive Council will takeplace on Monday, Aug. 26 in the tribal administration building.

Executive Council discusses businessBy Shannon Jones

Bay Mills News

2 Bay Mills News August 2019

3 Bay Mills News August 2019

BMIC hosts Criminal Trial Advocacy TrainingSubmitted by Whitney GravelleBMIC Tribal Attorney EAST LANSING — An interactive training designed to improve the effective prosecution of cases involving illegal narcotics, violent crime and to enhance tribal justice systems was held on June 19 to 21. This was the first time Bay Mills Indian Community hosted the Criminal Trial Advocacy Training at Michigan State University College of Law in East Lansing. During the course of three days, the training provided tribal attorneys, prosecutors, and judges from across the country the skills they need to prepare for prosecuting, defending, and hearing criminal trials. BMIC Chief Judge Leah Parish delivered the key note address to the training, highlighting the importance of criminal trial advocacy in opioid drug cases—which was the topic at the heart of this training. In this training, law professors, attorneys, and judges helped attendees conduct a mock trial and perfect their skills in providing legal assistance and justice to tribal communities. The Criminal Trial Advocacy Training helped attendees, who work in or in front of tribal courts, improve their trial skills to benefit tribal members and communities. Participants in the training came from Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians, Keweenaw Bay Indian Community, Nottawaseppi Huron Band of the Potawatomi, Lac Vieux Desert Band of the Chippewa, Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, and the Pueblo of Zuni. The training was funded through a grant from the Office of Tribal Justice Support. In partnership with the Bay Mills Indian Community, The Whitener Group organized and administered this training.

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4 Bay Mills News August 2019

Scratching the Underbelly By Sharon M. Kennedy Sometimes all it takes to turn a democratic republic into a fascist state is one person to scratch the underbelly of a pseudo civilized society. Once scratched, unfettered contempt emerges from its hiding place. It was always there. It just went unnoticed. Hidden underneath a mountain of platitudes, the festering underbelly passed from one political generation to another until it could no longer contain itself but exploded like a ripe pimple. I’m not writing to condemn any political party or any president, past or present. Readers of the Bay Mills News are intelligent and can make up their own mind. All I’m doing is adding my voice to thousands of others speaking out against racism, violence, and prejudice in our country. Obviously these triplets are alive and well in America. I think we’ve tried to eradicate them, but as the shootings in Texas and Ohio have demonstrated, we have had little success in such an endeavor. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it until I draw my last breath. Tolerance, acceptance, and love of fellow man will never be legislated by Congress. Such things come from a person’s heart or they do not come at all. “Pursuit of happiness” is only a pursuit. It is not a given. Regardless of the Declaration of Independence and Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address, all men are not created equal. You know it, I know it, everyone knows it, but nobody wants to admit it.

The foundation of our society was built on violence. If history books haven’t been thoroughly purged, they will tell a story of the white man’s treachery towards anyone whose skin was off-white. It was true of the first European invaders and it is true today. As a collective group we pretend we harbor no prejudice, no bias. We blame video games or horror movies or assault weapons for the rot infecting our nation. But are these things

really to blame for the mess we’re in? I don’t think so. “I think the fault, dear Brutus, is not in our stars, but in ourselves.” It’s hard to admit that we are a prejudiced nation and always have been. We don’t remember a time when employers posted signs saying “Irish Need Not Apply.” The same went for Poles,

Italians, Greeks, Jews, and just about anyone who wasn’t a WASP. We forget the stinking underbelly of our society has always been under our nose. We just didn’t smell it. However, once it was scratched until it purred like a cat lapping cream, it was given a green light and encouraged to flourish. By the time you read this, there might be more names added to the list of the dead. The violent, hate filled rage sweeping from one coast to the other won’t be thwarted by legislation. Assault weapons belong in the battlefields not in our streets, but if a person is intent upon killing, he’ll find a way. So how do we stop the epidemic of underbelly violence infecting America? If I had the answer to that one, I’d be calling the shots from a swivel chair in the White House. Kennedy is a freelance writer who resides in Brimley.

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Brimley, MI 49715 Phone: 906-322-9820 This publication is owned and operated by Bay Mills Indian Community.

Opinions expressed on this page are those of the relevant contributors. The next deadline is Thursday, Sept. 12 at 4 p.m.

OPINION

5 Bay Mills News August 2019

ST. IGNACE — As it was for the 2018 Annual Bridge Walk, the Mackinac Bridge will be closed to public traffic from 6:30 a.m. to noon on Monday, Sept. 2, 2019 to accommodate the 2019 Annual Bridge Walk. No bus transportation across the bridge will be available this year. Walkers who decide to walk across the entire bridge will need to arrange their own transportation back to the end of the bridge where they started – after the bridge reopens to public traffic at noon. There is limited parking space available west of the Mackinac Bridge Authority plaza area. Parking and shuttle service is being provided by the St. Ignace Chamber of Commerce and St. Ignace Visitor’s Bureau and is available at Little Bear East Arena. There is no fee or registration required to participate in the walk. The walk begins at 7 a.m. You may start walking any time after the governor’s party starts the walk at approximately 7 a.m. No one will be permitted to start after 11:30 a.m., so make sure you arrive early.This year, the walk begins in St. Ignace at the north end of the Mackinac Bridge in the Upper Peninsula, and in Mackinaw City at the south end of the bridge in the Lower Peninsula. To participate in the walk you may:

• Walk from either end of the bridge, then turn around at the midpoint and return to the community where you started the walk. Beginning at 10 a.m., the turnaround point will be moved towards the ends of the bridge, but you may start walking up until 11:30 a.m.

• Walk from either end of the bridge, and continue across to the other side. This option is most like previous bridge walks. However, since bus transportation across the bridge will not be available, walkers who choose this option will need to arrange for their own transportation back across after the bridge reopens at noon. Walkers who do not reach the midpoint of the bridge before 10 a.m. will be turned back.

•Walk from either end of the bridge, continuing across to the other side, then walking back to the end of the bridge you started from. This options will mean a 10-mile round

trip for participants. If walkers in this option do not reach the midpoint of the bridge on their return trip by 10 a.m. will be turned back.

Walkers will use the left-hand outside paved lane as they walk onto the bridge, regardless of which end of the bridge they start from. Walkers who turn back at the midpoint will turn right, then return using the opposite side outside paved lane. Walkers who choose to cross the entire bridge will stay in the left-hand outside paved lane all the way across. The Michigan State Police and other official personnel will be available in the event of an emergency. Please note, there are no restrooms on the bridge   and the average length of time to walk the bridge is about two hours. Portable toilets will be located in St. Ignace and Mackinaw City.Baby strollers and wheelchairs are allowed on the bridge during the walk. Prohibited items include signs, banners, umbrellas, bicycles, roller skates, skateboards, wagons and similar types of devices. With the sole exception of working service dogs, no animals are allowed. Walkers must stay away from bridge railings. The inside lanes in each direction will remain open for emergency vehicles. Except for pre-qualified, registered participants in the Governor’s Council on Physical Fitness Run, no running or racing is permitted on the bridge. Playing tag on the bridge is not permitted and no smoking on the bridge, please. For information on the Governor’s Council on Physical Fitness Run, please go to www.michiganfitness.org or contact the Governor’s Council at 517-347-7891. You will receive a numbered bridge walk certificate at the completion of your walk. Certificates will be distributed at both ends of the bridge. Individuals under the age of 18 should have the permission of a parent or guardian to participate in the walk. Any two or more people walking together should make plans for a meeting place in the event that they become separated during the walk.

What you need to know about the 2019

Mackinac Bridge Walk

6 Bay Mills News August 2019

SAULT STE MARIE — After an extensive search, Lake Superior State University is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Michael Beazley as the new Dean of Student Affairs effective Aug. 1. Dr. Beazley will report to Dr. Rodney Hanley, LSSU’s President, and serve as a member of his senior management team. “LSSU is looking forward to welcoming Dr. Beazley as our new Dean of Student Affairs this August.” President Hanley said, “Dr. Beazley is a proven leader, and brings years of experience in all aspects of directing student affairs to the University. After months of searching, we are confident we chose the right person for the job.” Dr. Beazley will be responsible for development and continuous assessment of the campus experience, as well as student programming and support services. In addition to these duties, Dr. Beazley will also provide leadership for establishing and achieving University goals for the retention of students, enhancing the campus environment, and further building student opportunities for co-curricular offerings.  “The search committee was impressed by Dr. Beazley’s authenticity, intellect, education, and experience,” Dr. Lynn Gillette, LSSU provost & vice president for Academic Affairs stated. “We were also impressed by his vision for Student Affairs, his ability to build strong teams, and his concern for students. We believe that he will be a tremendous asset to Lake State, and we are excited about him joining the university.” Dr. Beazley holds a doctoral degree in Higher Education from Loyola University Chicago, a master’s in Higher Education Management from the University of Pennsylvania, along with two bachelor degrees – one in theology, and one in music, from Loyola University Chicago.  Dr. Beazley brings many years of experience, grounded in a student-centered approach, to LSSU. After graduation, Dr. Beazley worked his way up the ladder at his alma mater, Loyola University Chicago, starting first as the Coordinator for the Indonesia

Secondary Education Development Program, and then serving as a Graduate Assistant in the Center for Catholic School Effectiveness.  In 2010, Dr. Beazley relocated to Rome, Italy to become the director of resident life and student services, where he was responsible for developing initiatives to create a healthy living and learning environment for students. He also managed the full

conduct policy and practice review process and alignment of Loyola University’s Rome and Chicago campuses.  In 2013, he returned to Chicago, Ill. to become the Assistant to the vice president and director of assessment. In this role, he served as chief assessment officer for the Division of Student Development, providing leadership for the assessment efforts of 16 departments. He also co-created an Assessment Certificate Program with DePaul University.

In 2016, at the request of the President of Loyola University Chicago, Dr. Beazley returned to Rome as a special internal consultant, where he rectified institutional underperformance amid personnel turnover, leading to an improvement in staff morale. Following this, Dr. Beazley accepted the position of dean of Rome student life.  As Dean of Rome Student Life, Dr. Beazley was responsible for new student orientation, community engagement, student assessment, immigration compliance, resident life, student wellness and conduct, and Title IX investigations. In addition, he managed Rome Student Life’s annual budget, emergency response team readiness, and the risk management functions. He also developed immersive experiences throughout Europe, as well as designed and oversaw 25 university-sponsored study trips per year. “Drawing on my experience of the past several years, what I expect and aspire to do is build a vibrant community,” said Dr. Beazley. “To appeal to a broader group of students, one of the things I’ve done in Rome, is to zero in on that idea. I’d like to think that the experience I have will help students not only develop into a university community, but then also find a real sense of belonging in that community.”

LSSU welcomes new dean of student affairs

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Harris, Masuga sign with Bay College ESCANABA -Bay College has announced a nine-player recruiting class for the 2019-2020 Men's Basketball Team. Six of the nine players are from the U.P. or surrounding area. Two locals will be featured on the team this year. Former Brimley guard and four-year varsity player Marcus Harris was selected First Team Eastern UP Conference and All-State Honorable Mention following a 23-1 season. Harris scored 17 points per game, grabbed 5 rebounds per game, had 4 assists per game, and averaged 3 steals per game while being selected as Defensive Player of the Year following his senior season. He surpassed the 1,000 point mark in leading his team to 23 straight victories during his senior season. Tristan Masuga, a three-year varsity starter at Cedarville earned 1st Team Eastern UP Conference, 1st Team All-Area, and All-UP Special mention, while scoring 14 points per game and collecting eight rebounds per game as a senior.

"We are excited about our incoming class, both in the quality of young men off the court and their athletic ability on the court," said Head Coach Matt Johnson. "The class brings a lot of versatility on the court and they all fit in very well with our style of play. We wanted to improve in a few areas, mainly toughness, perimeter shooting, and becoming longer and more athletic, and we feel we have filled all of those needs with this recruiting class. We are very happy to have these young men join our Norse Basketball Family and are looking forward to a bright future." The Norse just graduated their first class since the resurgence of the basketball program, going 42-17 over the past two seasons. The Norse return five letter winners from last season's roster and open the 2019-20 regular season at Grand Rapids Community College on Friday, Nov. 1, while their first home contest will be on Monday, Nov. 18 when they host UW-Marinette at 8 p.m.

HEALTH CENTER WEEK - As part of National Health Center Week, the Ellen Marshall Memorial Health Center staff kicked off festivities on Aug. 5. Throughout the week, displays were on hand from various departments, along with free samples and items to promote a healthy lifestyle. The celebration ended with a 5k walk through the community.

The Bay Mills Health Center is one of the biggest providers of health care services in the tri-county area. Next year BMIC will break ground on a newer, larger facility that will allow the tribe to provide additional services to tribal and community members.

Youth at the Bay Mills Boys & Girls Club learned more about their Native heritage this summer with cultural camp.

Tribal elder Wanda Perron showed them how to sculpt with locally harvested clay, Keith Smith and Kathy LeBlanc shared about coming of age teachings, sweat lodge teachings for young men and women's teachings. The club wrapped up by playing games of traditional lacrosse to end the day in a good way.

Boys & Girls Club hosts Cultural Camp

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Bay Mills Law Enforcement takes the championship trophy at the Bay Mills Employee Fest Softball Tourney

The day of festivities, held on Aug. 18, is sponsored by Bay Mills Resort & Casinos in an effort to honor the hard working employees of the community. Games, food, and a variety of activities took place throughout the day for families.

Bay Mills News August 2019

James “Jim” Donald Sally James “Jim” Donald Sally, 70, of Sugar Island, passed away peacefully on Aug. 16, surrounded by family. He was born Feb. 16, 1949 to John and Beverly (Griffin) Sally. Jim attended Sault High and was a

member of Bay Mills Indian Community. He served in the US Army, stationed in Germany during the Vietnam War, and served in the US Merchant Marine.   When Jim returned home he began work as a mechanic, a trade he kept up with until his last days. He was always tinkering with something! He spent many years at Cryderman’s Machine Shop and working for Sault Tribe Construction. Jim enjoyed a good game of cribbage, old Westerns, and anything that had to do with cars. And he loved Sugar Island. In March of 1999 Jim married the love of his life, Melissa McKerchie. He welcomed her sons, Brian and Jimmy, as if they were his own. Jim is predeceased by his parents, sister Carolyn Napoletano, baby brother Kenny Sally, and furkids Scooby, Specks, and Tommy. He is survived by his wife, Melissa Sally; sons Brian McKerchie and Jimmy Smith;   sister Marian (David) Jones of Dayton, OH; brother Tom (Dorothy) Sally of Surprise, AZ; father-in-law and good friend Ken McKerchie of Sault Ste. Marie; sisters-in-law Mary LaJoice and Michelle (David) MacArthur of Sault Ste. Marie; nieces and nephews: Shannon and Jim Jones; Cary and John Napoletano; John, Josh, Ryan, and Aaron Sally; Cheyenne and Aaron LaJoice;  Danny Bowerman; Michael McKerchie; Adam and Keith MacArthur; as well as numerous friends he met throughout the years. Cremation has taken place with the assistance of Gaylord Community Funeral Home. A celebration of life will take place at the Sault VFW on Portage Avenue on Saturday, Aug. 24 from 2 to 4 p.m. Jim wanted to be remembered without tears and with plenty of friends enjoying a meal and raising a glass to him. The family would like to thank Dr. Maloney of Bay Mills and Dr. Miranda of Sault Ste. Marie for their care of Jim throughout the years.

Catherine Sue Teeple Catherine Sue Teeple of Brimley passed away Tuesday Aug. 6, 2019 at War Memorial Hospital. Catherine was born Dec. 15, 1949 in Bay Mills, Michigan the daughter of Edmund and Beulah Teeple.  Cathy worked as a legal secretary for State Farm Insurance for 28 years.  She is survived by a son Brandon Teeple of Brimley, Mich.; two sisters Maxine (Bob) Jerman and Regina (Rocky) Hudson; two brothers Eugene (Faye) Teeple and Michael (Laura) Teeple of Traverse City, Mich.; also survived by several nieces and nephews.  Cathy is predeceased by her mother Beulah Teeple and father Edmund Teeple; two brothers Gary Teeple and Leonard Teeple. Final resting place will be in Mission Hill Cemetery. Donations to help the family with final arrangements would be appreciated.  Online condolences may be left at www.clarkbaileynewhouse.com.

Donald Wayne Morningstar Donald Wayne Morningstar, 65, of Strongs, died Monday, July 22, 2019 at his residence. He was born Nov. 30, 1953 in Sault Ste. Marie, son of the late Boyd and Aline (Dewitt) Morningstar, Don was a graduate of Brimley High School. Don proudly served his country in the United States Army during the  Vietnam War   until his honorable discharge.   He was a life member of the American Legion Post #393 in Hulbert serving as post commander for several years.  Don was employed as a custodian at Brimley High School for several years until his retirement in 2015.   He was an avid outdoorsman and enjoyed playing horseshoes, darts as well as many other sports. In addition to his parents, Don is preceded in death by his brothers Thomas and James. Survivors include his longtime companion Denice Compton of Strongs; daughter Alisha Morningstar (fiancé Kenneth Baines) of Tacoma, WA: grandchildren Jocelyn, Angelina and Kennedy all of Tacoma, WA; siblings Sandra (Al) McLean of Onaway, Debra (Ken) Brabant of Newberry, Gerald (Brenda) Morningstar of Florida and John Morningstar of Strongs; several nieces, nephews and cousins. Condolences may be expressed at www.beaulieufuneralhome.com.

Walking on

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SAULT STE. MARIE - Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer embarked on her Upper Peninsula tour on Tuesday, Aug.13. Her first stop was the state’s oldest city, Sault Ste. Marie, located at the northernmost border of the eastern U.P and home to the internationally-renown Soo Locks. At the Sault Ste. Marie Economic Development Corporation, she met with local officials, economic developers, manufacturers, businesspeople.In her presentation, Whitmer discussed her plans for growing Michigan’s economy. She covered the topic of the impending Soo Locks renovation with Great Lakes 2020, a plan that supports federal funding for the project. She also discussed the state budget, its impact on manufacturing, economic development, and Michigan roads, as well as plans to expand broadband access to areas of the state that are currently underserved. Following her presentation, Gov. Whitmer held a brief Q&A with attendees. “We were very pleased to have Governor Whitmer here at our Smartzone, along with Michigan Economic Development Corporation director Jeff Mason,” said Jeff Holt, executive director of the Sault EDC. “We look forward to our continuing relationship with our partners in Lansing.” Mayor Anthony Bosbous presented the governor with a list of local legislative priorities and City Commissioner Kathleen Twardy presented her with a gift basket of local treasures. While in the Sault, Gov. Whitmer also visited the Soo Locks for a first-hand look at the existing infrastructure that has been a top priority since she took office. Subsequent stops on her tour included Newberry, Marquette, and Escanaba, where she was scheduled to speak at the U.P. State Fair.

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Gov. Whitmer visits Sault Ste. Marie

12 Bay Mills News August 2019

White pelicans expand their Great Lakes range By ERIC FREEDMAN/ Capital News Service LANSING — The American white pelican has established a nest-hold in western Lake Erie for the first time, with prospects of future territorial expansion into lakes Huron and Ontario, according to a new study. The species “is undergoing a dramatic expansion of its breeding range in North America,” the study published in the journal Ontario Birds said. “The nesting on Lake Erie, so far from the colony sites in Lake Michigan and Lake Superior, seems unusual. Why such a large dispersal from the nearest breeding colony 550 km (340 miles) away?” Historically, the birds breed in the Prairie provinces, western Minnesota, extreme northwestern Ontario, North Dakota and South Dakota. Elsewhere in the Great Lakes region, the birds also nest at Lake of the Woods on the Ontario-Minnesota border and at Ontario’s Lake Nipigon and Lac Seul. Now they’re spreading eastward. That distance “is and is not unusual,” said study co-author D.V. Chip Weseloh, a retired Great Lakes waterbird specialist with the Canadian Wildlife Service. “Pelicans are strange birds and will range far and wide hundreds of miles to feed,” a feat documented with radio transmitters. “They do have a reputation of wandering widely. Within that species, going 500 miles isn’t that usual,” Weseloh said. With its 9-foot wingspan, the American white pelican is one of North America’s largest birds and feeds primarily on fish, according to the Audubon Society. The overall population declined through the first half of the 1900s but has grown substantially since the 1970s. It’s protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, and the International Union for Conservation of Nature’s Red List categorizes it as a species of least concern. Adults have no major predators, although bald eagles sometimes kill young pelicans, Weseloh said. The new study called the American white pelican “a rare vagrant” to western Lake Erie until 2014, when sightings became more common. In 2016, researchers discovered eggs and nests on Big Chicken Island and Middle Sister Island in Canadian waters, confirming their breeding status in Lake Erie. It was the first known nesting for the species in the lower Great Lakes. Scientists combined visits to the islands with offshore photographs.

For e x a m p l e , while criss-c r o s s i n g M i d d l e Sister Island to survey cormorants, researchers “ c a m e across 24 abandoned pelican nests with cold eggs and/or eggshells,” the study said. “The trees and underbrush were dense enough that adult pelicans would have had to walk in from the beach to access their nests in the forest.” The discovery of the nests was happenstance, Weseloh said. Study co-author David Moore of the Canadian Wildlife Service “was just doing normal routine monitoring of cormorants” on Middle Sister and stumbled on this abandoned pelican colony, he said. As for Big Chicken, independent ornithology researcher V. Robert Tymstra had spotted pelicans in the area. He then followed up on the sightings by chartering a motorized Zodiac to scout out the island, according to the study, which he co-authored. Big Chicken is a small, barren, low-lying cobblestone island. Middle Sister is larger and heavily forested. Herring gulls and cormorants regularly nest on both.Both are west of Pelee Island, which is swoutheast of Monroe, Michigan. It is Lake Erie’s largest island and a popular tourism spot. As for further territorial expansion, the study says it is “perhaps only a matter of time” before American white pelicans start nesting in Lake Ontario and Lake Huron. “Both of those lakes have seemingly very similar habitat, remote small rocky islands with other colonial waterbirds.” The pelican nests almost exclusively on islands, and “there are oodles of potential nest sites in Lake Huron, Weseloh said, although the stock of some fish has crashed in that lake. Lake Ontario also has islands suitable for nest, along with ample food supplies. Although pelicans and cormorants “both eat whatever they can catch” and compete for some of the same fish species, they hunt in different ways, he said. Cormorants dive for their prey while pelicans herd or shepherd their prey into shallow waters and “pick them off.”

Photo by US Fish & Wildlife, Ingrid Taylar

13 Bay Mills News August 2019

Policy revision allows tribes to retain certain eagle remains found on their land In a monumental decision that underscores the agency’s commitment to honoring the wishes of federally recognized Tribes, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has revised its policy regarding the retention of eagle remains on lands within Indian Country. Federally recognized Tribes are now able to retain bald and golden eagle remains found on these lands under certain conditions and with the proper permits.    In 2017, the Service hosted numerous in-person and telephone consultation opportunities for federally recognized Tribes in the United States. During these consultation sessions, tribal members requested the ability to retain bald and golden eagle remains found on their lands. The Service has revised its policy to accommodate this request.  The updated policy has three goals: authorize the retention of eagles found by a Tribe’s members in Indian Country, enhance eagle conservation on these lands, and avoid unnecessary human health or safety challenges that some deceased eagles pose. “The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is honored to have the ability to support Tribes’ spiritual, religious and cultural pursuits by authorizing the retention of eagle remains found by federally recognized Tribal members on their lands,” said Principal Deputy Director Margaret Everson. “By working together, we hope to conserve bald and golden eagle populations for future generations.”  “Because of its intrinsic beauty, skill and courage, the eagle is a valued symbol of America and has long been venerated in many Tribal cultures throughout Indian Country,” said John Tahsuda, Interior principal deputy assistant secretary – Indian Affairs. “Indian Affairs staff have worked with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and Tribal nations on a common-sense approach to the handling of bald and golden eagle remains found on tribal lands.   This updated eagle remains retention policy respects Tribal cultural and religious practices while protecting eagle populations now and in the future.”   Under the updated policy, a federally recognized tribe must receive a permit prior to possessing eagle remains found within Indian Country. When a tribal member or an employee of a federally recognized Tribe

discovers eagle remains, he or she must report it immediately to tribal or service law enforcement officials. Eagle remains found and reported may be eligible for return to the federally recognized Tribe for religious purposes after the Service completes any activities it deems necessary for law enforcement or for scientific management reasons. If the service or a tribal law enforcement officer designated by the service determines that the eagle was not taken intentionally and human health risks aren’t suspected or known, it may be transferred directly to the respective federally recognized Tribe as long as the proper permits are in place. Bald and golden eagles are protected under the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act, the Lacey Act and the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. Certain activities like harassing, killing or selling these species are strictly prohibited. Eagles that are unlawfully taken, diseased, poisoned or part of an ongoing investigation will not be eligible for distribution. More information regarding the Service’s eagle retention policy update can be found here:   https://www.fws.gov/nat iveamerican/eagle-re tent ion-policy.html

14 Bay Mills News August 2019

DNR seeks input on 2020 forest road maps and ORV use Comments should be submitted by Aug. 31 via the interactive map or email Michigan residents have until Aug. 31 to help the Department of Natural Resources decide which state forest roads will be open or closed to off-road vehicles in 2020. The DNR updates its online forest roads map every year on April 1, indicating which roads are open to ORV use. People can share their suggestions at any time throughout the year. Department proposals to change the map are made based on road inventories and that ongoing public input process. Any input received after Aug. 31 would be captured for proposed updates to the 2021 state forest roads map. “This process and the interactive web map ensure people can easily learn about accessing and using public lands. They also encourage public involvement in the forest road decisions,” said Shannon Hanna, DNR natural resources deputy director. The DNR forest roads web map is available at  Michigan.gov/ForestRoads  and lets visitors share feedback directly on the map. Comments also may be sent to DNR-RoadInventoryProject@Michigan.gov or to local DNR offices.  Proposed changes to the open/closed status of state forest roads for ORV or conventional vehicle use will be available for public review and comment in the fall. After public review, the DNR director will approve the final forest roads map at a future meeting of the Michigan Natural Resources Commission.PROPOSING CHANGES Types of changes that could be proposed might include decisions to open or close a road to ORV use, close a road to all conventional vehicles or modify a road to reflect its condition. Typical reasons for closures are to protect resources that have been damaged by motorized use, to ensure public safety (due to conditions like a bridge being out) or to correct map inventory inaccuracies (such as a road that no longer exists on the ground but does appear on a map). The comprehensive forest roads inventory and interactive web map emerged from work resulting from Public Act 288 of 2016, which encourages people to enjoy Michigan’s public lands by enhancing ORV opportunities throughout the state. Printable county maps  showing the current status of area roads also are available on the state forest roads webpage, grouped by the Upper Peninsula, northern Lower Peninsula and southern Lower Peninsula regions.

Bridge tokens will no longer be accepted ST. IGNACE - Due to dwindling demand, the Mackinac Bridge Authority (MBA) will no longer accept bridge tokens in the toll lanes as of Sept. 10. Though the tokens have long been part of the Mackinac Bridge crossing experience, very few have been redeemed for tolls in recent years. Citing this decreased use, the Mackinac Bridge Authority decided in July to end their use in toll lanes. “We currently only see two or three customers use tokens to pay the toll each day, and we only sell a few of our commemorative token sets,” said MBA Executive Secretary Kim Nowack. “Most customers still pay tolls with cash, MacPass cards, and increasingly with credit cards.” The MBA has issued many different versions of the tokens over the years, available in rolls of 24. Commemorative token sets of two – memorializing people such as Prentiss Brown and David Steinman, as well as eight different designs in honor of the Mackinac Straits ferries – will still be available for purchase as keepsakes: https://www.mackinacbridge.org/shopping/token-gift-packs-medallion/.“We encourage customers to either use their remaining tokens over the next few weeks, redeem them later at the bridge office, or hold on to them as the collectors’ items they will become,” Nowack said.

Area 35 Special Olympics Athletes Enjoy Mackinac Island The annual bike ride fundraiser was a record-breaker for the athletes this year. A total of $16,671 was raised for the programs.

20AUG.

16 Bay Mills News August 2019

Announcements Horseshoe Tourney announced

Come out and support sober living in Bay Mills! The adults-only horseshoe tournament will take place on Saturday, Aug. 24 at 4 p.m. at the Bay Mills Ball Diamond. If you don’t have a partner, come on down and get paired with one! The event, sponsored by Bay Mills Behavioral Health, will offer prizes for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place. For more information, or to sign up, contact Trista at 906-248-3204.

Farmer’s Market open for business

The market is open every Thursday!    Many items available: lettuce, kale, radishes, beef, poultry, fish, pork, chicken eggs, duck eggs, Rez Rocks, herbs, cherries, breads, maple syrup and maple products, jams and jellies, green onions, soy candles, Native American jewelry, honey, and many more local produce and goods. New Location: 11644 Plantation Road in Brimley, across from the Bay Mills Resort and Casino RV park, 4 to 7 p.m. The market will accept WIC Project Fresh, Senior Market Fresh, SNAP/Bridge Cards and Double UP Food Bucks.

Message from BMIC Social Services

Social Services is accepting donations of gently used back packs and school supplies. Please donate to families in need. The first day of school is a special day for every child. Some children are fortunate, arriving to school in the newest fashions, while other children are not. Let’s not forget about our families in need during this time. Let’s send our kids to school with nice back packs, new pencils and paper, gym shoes, and clothing. If you would like to donate to Bay Mills Social Service’s Back to School Program, please drop off your donations at the Bay Mills Social Services, 12099 W. Lakeshore Drive, Brimley, MI. All proceeds go to the families in need in the Bay Mills Indian Community. Please contact Bonnie Bator, Office Assistant at 906-248-8564.

Women’s Teachings planned

An evening of women’s teachings is scheduled for Monday, Aug. 26 at 5:30 p.m. at the Bay Mills Cultural Building. This event is hosted by the Bay Mills Journey to Healing Program with support from the

Cultural Dept. If you have any questions, please contact Anna or Helen at 906-248-3204.

5k Run/Walk planned

The Spirit Stone Shuffle will take place on Saturday, Oct. 12. Registration begins at 7:30 a.m., the race kicks off at 9 a.m. from the Farmer’s Market Pavilion on Plantation Road and finishes at Bay Mills Community College. Early registration runs until Sept. 25 for $25 a person and includes an official t-shirt. From Sept. 26-Oct. 11 registration will be $30, no t-shirt guarantee. On race day, registration will be $40. You can register online at www.runsignup.com. A Tiny Tot version of the race will occur at 8 a.m. and is free of charge to local youth.

Attend the Women’s Cultural Gathering

A Women’s Cultural Gathering will take place from Sept. 6 to 8 at the West Campus of Bay Mills Community College. Accommodations are limited, RSVP is required. For more information or to RSVP, please contact Anna Rogers-Stott at 906-248-8311/ amrogers-stott@baymills.org or Helen Wilkins at 906-248-8300.

BMCC auctioning Jeep

Bay Mills Community College is auctioning a 1952 Jeep Willys M38A1 in running condition. The vehicle is to be auctioned “as is,” with a minimum bid of $2,000. The Jeep will be available for viewing, weather permitting, in the parking lot of the BMCC main campus at 12214 W. Lakeshore Drive in Brimley between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. from until Sept. 5 (with the exception of Labor Day). Additional viewing may be available by request if you call 906-248-8478. Bids may be submitted via email to syanni@bmcc.edu or dropped off in a sealed envelope to the main campus front desk. Bids must contain name, address, phone number, bid amount, signature of bidder, and date. Bids will be accepted until Thursday, Sept. 5 at 4 p.m. EST. The winner bidder will be notified and arrangements for payment, title transfer and pick up will be agreed upon by BMCC and bidder. The vehicle must be picked up by winning bidder by Friday, Sept. 20.