Miisaninawiind :: March 15 - 21, 2021 |
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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.
Check out our website HERE and our Facebook page HERE.
Want to receive the newsletter each week? Sign up HERE.
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COVID-19 Community Updates |
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An up-to-date list of COVID-19 related notices and educational resources can be found on the Red Cliff website.
Tribal Departments and Programs are still offering virtual and social-distance events! Check out the Events Calendar.
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Vaccine distribution continues in Red Cliff.
Click HERE for the most recent vaccine update from March 12.
Tribal Members and RCCHC Patients can sign up ONLINE to receive the vaccine. The next Vaccine Clinic is scheduled for March 17-18.
Please consider getting vaccinated to protect your community!
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Q&A With Dr. Reitz and FNP Nyman |
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Her Story, Her Voice:
Audrey Gordon
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March is National Women’s History Month. To celebrate, we invite you to join us in listening to the advice and stories of influential women in the Red Cliff area. |
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Audrey Gordon
How long have you lived in Red Cliff?
“Oh I was born and raised here. So about 80 years. I have lived on Blueberry road all my life. When I was a girl I used to have to run down to the lake and get some water.
Both my husband and I had large families. I married Melvin in 1963, and he passed away in 1971.”
What do you consider your greatest life achievements?
“Well, I raised 6 kids and they all went through school. They all accomplished a lot. I have 9 grandkids and 17 great grandkids. I helped raise some of my grand children. I attended beauty school in California for two years. Worked in San Francisco and Oakland. I lived in Oakland and had to go across the Bay Bridge everyday.
Later on in life I received my GED and then attended LCO College.
Later, I worked in Red Cliff at the boat house as a secretary. I was able to go to nurse’s aid training, so I graduated from that and worked in Washburn at an old folks home for a long time.”
What are ways in which you have worked to keep language and culture alive in Red Cliff?
“I used to go to all of Grandma Jenny’s classes and do all that work. I made my own drum and made lots of dream catchers and did lots of beading. I graduated LCO College with Indian Crafts and Art degree. I took all the language classes offered, even though it is hard to learn a new language at an older age. I also attended as many events as I could and would take the kids camping out at Raspberry for weeks. I would take the kids to all the events.”
If you could give the next generation of women one piece of advice, what would it be?
"You got to keep truckin’ on, keep doing stuff for your family and working with your family. I would urge them to keep going and keep pushing on.”
Thoughts from the community
“She would take on odds jobs to take care of us like babysitting for her siblings. She raised us kids by herself. She was a hard worker. She taught her kids the values of life. She is a great mother and she is mine.”
- Laura Gordon
“Audrey Gordon is a woman that inspires others with a quiet, humble respectful way. She is like the light at the end of the tunnel and beacon with enduring light. Audrey is a positive role model as a mother, Grandmother, Great Grandmother, auntie, & sister. Audrey has mentored many women, men, and children in a gentle way, which she is probably not aware of. Her love for her family and community is ongoing on a daily basis. One could follow Audrey’s way of life to live a healthy life style. Audrey many hugs to you for all you do for your family and community. You always have a smile and make the days full of sunshine.”
With respect and love, Midge Montano
Poetry by Midge Montano
Gathering of Women
Gathering of Women
Women gather to share stories
Women gather to shed tears
Women gather to share laughter
Women gather to heal each other
Gathering of Women
Women gather to peel potatoes
Women gather to scrub floors
Women gather to fry bread
Gathering of Women
Women gather to make music
Women gather to sing songs
Women gather to sound drums
Gathering of Women
Women gather to prepare tea
Women gather to share tea
Women gather to share words
Women gather to walk on Mother Earth
Gathering of Women
Midge Montano, March 5,1999
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Library, Historic Preservation, Education Buildings Nearing Completion |
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Community members will soon be able to access the new cultural buildings located at the Red Cliff Cultural Grounds.
These new buildings now house the Ginanda Gikendaasomin Library, Tribal Historic Preservation Office, Native Connections, and the Education department.
“We are very happy that the library in Red Cliff will have its own space, which will allow us to share our collection of Native American focused literature, new resources for community members attending online schooling, and spaces with open wireless internet access for our patrons to use,” said Jared Blanche, Education and Library Director. “We look forward to having the Ginanda Gikendaasomin Library being a space for reading, studying, quiet conversations, traditional stories, and community events.”
The move for these departments came after community feedback valuing the importance of quality programming related to education and cultural preservation, as well as the need to adhere to proper social distancing protocol and safe environments for community members to access these services during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Other locations were considered. However, it was determined the Cultural Grounds provided the best fit for these two buildings and departments. The Cultural Grounds cover roughly 40 acres. The new buildings will occupy a very small portion of the Cultural Grounds as they are approximately only 36’ x 60’ structures.
One building will have the Education department and will have the library relocated from the Tribal Administration building. The other office building will have Tribal Historic Preservation and the Native Connections department staff.
These buildings are the start of more offerings to the community for maintaining and developing our resilience through Red Cliff culture and teachings. THPO will also be able to provide more cultural preservation activities.
“This facility will afford much needed space to ensure a safe work area and programming for staff and community,” said Marvin Defoe, Tribal Historic Preservation Officer. “This will be a learning place for our community now and into the future.”
For more information on the Ginanda Gikendaasomin Library and Tribal Historic Preservation, visit www.redcliff-nsn.gov.
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Proposed Burial Ordinance Up For Review |
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The Red Cliff Ad Hoc Cemetery Committee has proposed a new Burial Ordinance and is requesting community input.
The committee is hosting a listening session on Wednesday March 30 from 5-8 PM at Legendary Waters Event Center. Attendees are required to wear masks, and social distancing guidelines will be followed.
Community members can also join virtually via Webex.
Meeting Number: 187 301 1866
Meeting Password: 2021Cemetery
All participants will be eligible to receive raffle prizes.
For any questions, please contact the Tribal Historic Preservation Office at 715-779-3700.
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Full Moon Ceremony Set for March 27 |
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A Full Moon Ceremony is scheduled for March 27 at the Red Cliff Campground. Community members interested should meet by the willow tree at 5 PM.
The ceremony will be facilitated by Heather Hoaglund from the Grandportage Band of Ojibwe.
Social distancing guidelines will be followed. Please bring masks, a chair, and asaama.
This ceremony is sponsored by the Red Cliff Family Violence Prevention Program and the Red Cliff Indian Child Welfare Department.
Please contact 715-779-3706 with any questions.
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Ma'iingan, Waabizhesi, and Ojiig in Miskwaabekong |
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Spring Spearing Monitoring Team Open Positions |
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The Great Lakes Indian Fish & Wildlife Commission has openings on the Monitoring Team for this coming Spring Spearing 2021 season.
Those interested should apply soon as these positions are open until filled.
Those selected will be working roughly 15-20 days during April-May 2021.
The Monitoring Team monitors fish catches of Ojibwe tribal members at boat landings on ceded territory lakes and rivers. You will count and measure fish and record time spent spearing. Walleye must be checked for fin clips or other marks. All work will be at night but an evening meeting may be held daily to assign persons to lakes. In general, hours will be from 6:00 PM until spearing ends on the assigned lake.
Working conditions have been stressful in some areas in the past. Teams are expected to maintain a professional, cooperative, and non-confrontational demeanor.
Click HERE for further position details and application instructions.
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Red Cliff Announces Emergency Rental Assistance Program |
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The Red Cliff Band is now offering an Emergency Rental Assistance Program to Red Cliff Tribal Members to provide relief for home renters who are having difficulty paying rent and utility bills.
Click HERE to learn more about the program and to download an application.
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2021 Tribal Council Elections |
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This year, Red Cliff Tribal Members will have the opportunity to vote for a Chairperson, Treasurer, and three At Large seats.
The Primary Election is set for May 7, and the General Election is set for July 6.
Tribal Members interested in running for Chairperson or Treasurer need to formally submit their candidacy by Wednesday April 7.
Tribal Members interested in running for an At Large seat need to formally submit their candidacy by Monday June 21.
Seven community members are needed to serve on the 2021 Election Board for the upcoming Red Cliff Primary and General Elections. Applications to serve on the Election Board need to be submitted to the front desk of the Administration Office by April 1, 2021 at 12 PM.
All voting will occur at Legendary Waters Resort & Casino.
For all 2021 Election information and important dates, visit:
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Red Cliff Tribal Member Joins
Race for Bayfield County Judge
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Red Cliff Tribal Member Vince Kurta has declared his candidacy to become the next Bayfield County circuit court judge.
Kurta is currently serving as an assistant district attorney for Sawyer County. After earning his law license, Kurta joined the Haukaas Law Office and represented several townships in Bayfield County.
Kurta then became a staff attorney in Bad River where he handled contracts and government work.
Kurta's opponent is incumbent Judge John Anderson, who has served as Bayfield County circuit court judge since 2003.
More information about Kurta can be found HERE.
The election is set for April 6. Red Cliff and Bayfield County residents can find voting information for the April 6 election at www.myvote.wi.gov.
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Curbside Pickup At The Red Cliff Pharmacy |
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The Red Cliff Pharmacy is happy to continue offering curbside pickup. Pickups are available on the hour and the half hour.
Please call the pharmacy ahead of time to let them know what time you will be arriving.
For new prescriptions or any questions, please call and talk to the pharmacist.
715-779-3157
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Virtual Recovery Meetings |
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There are various AA / NA / Alanon group meetings offered around the Chequamegon Bay area.
Click HERE to access the different meeting links and information.
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Click HERE to visit the Red Cliff Community Health Center website.
Click HERE for COVID-19 Updates and Resources.
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Bayfield School District Weekly Updates |
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The Bayfield School District will be releasing
weekly updates for parents and students.
You can view the school's weekly updates on their website:
You can also find the weekly updates on the
Bayfield School District Facebook page.
Bayfield School Board Meeting
Monday March 15, 6:00 PM
Click HERE for the agenda and access link.
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Access Scholarship Opportunities |
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Red Cliff Community Members have access to a variety of scholarships.
Click HERE to visit the Education Department's Scholarships page.
Upcoming External Scholarship Opportunities
Northern Wisconsin Outdoor Experiential Education Scholarship
Apply by April 1st.
Bayfield Education Association Aspiring Educator Scholarship
10 Scholarships for 2021 Native Students
AISES Together Towards Tomorrow T3 Scholarships
Applications now open! Click HERE for details.
Udall Foundation Scholarship
Scholarships for Native American and Alaska Native undergraduate students pursuing careers related to tribal public policy, native healthcare, and the environment.
Click HERE to learn more, find your faculty rep, and apply.
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Boys and Girls Club of Gitchigami |
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Free Meals for Club Members |
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The Red Cliff Boys and Girls Club continues its free meal campaign for club members through March.
Meals for Friday and Saturday are handed out at Red Cliff Food Distribution every Friday from 11 AM - 12:30 PM.
Click HERE for March's menu.
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Boys and Girls Club staff have created Virtual Daily Lessons for youth to follow while the Club is closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Lessons incorporate fitness and fun, fine arts, virtual field trips, mental workouts, and lessons on character, leadership, and service!
The lessons are dated, but contain activities that can be done year-round!
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Seeking Bids For Private Home Rehab |
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There will be a pre-bid conference and site visit on March 22 at 1:30 PM. Prospective bidders will be provided the opportunity to ask questions about the project.
Sealed bids must be submitted no later than 3:00 PM on April 1, 2021.
Click HERE for project details.
Contact the Red Cliff Chippewa Housing Authority with any questions at 715-779-3744.
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Monthly RCCHA Board Meeting |
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The Red Cliff Chippewa Housing Authority monthly board meeting is set for 5 PM on Tuesday March 16 at Legendary Waters.
Click HERE to view the meeting agenda.
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Legendary Waters Resort & Casino |
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News Across Indian Country |
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Field Technician Opportunity
Black Bear Population Dynamics
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The Pauli Lab (www.labs.russell.wisc.edu/pauli/) at the University of Wisconsin, Madison is seeking one technician to assist with a Black Bear Population Dynamics study in northern Wisconsin. The project involves using non-invasive genetic methods in order to determine black bear density, vital rates (survivorship, reproductive output, juvenile recruitment), population growth rate, and gene flow of bear populations on the Apostle Islands and the Red Cliff Reservation. This project is in collaboration with the University of Wisconsin, Madison, the Red Cliff Band of Ojibwe, the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, and the Great Lakes Indian Fish and Wildlife Commission.
The summer field season will consist of deploying hair snares and collecting hair samples on 11 of the Apostle Islands as well as on the Red Cliff Reservation, the adjacent mainland. During Apostle Island hair snare checks, we will tent-camp in campgrounds or backcountry campgrounds for 4-6 nights. On off-island days there will be housing provided in a camper trailer on the mainland. The schedule will be approximately 7 days on, 3 days off. The position will begin on May 10 and finish around July 23, with the end date being subject to change.
Click HERE for details and to apply.
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GLIFWC Internship Opportunities |
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Great Lakes Indian Fish & Wildlife Commission (GLIFWC) is happy to announce available internships for its 2021 GLIFWC Summer Internship Program! In 2021, GLIFWC will be offering 5 unique internships from its various divisions, including Biological Services, Planning and Development, and Public Information. Due to the ongoing COVID pandemic, these internships will be offered remotely.
Complete applications (as outlined within the Opportunity Announcement) are due by March 22nd, 2021 by 4:30 PM CST.
Internship Position Descriptions are available for viewing at www.glifwc.org under the “Employment” section.
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WINLF RECRUITING PARTICIPANTS AND MENTORS FOR LEADERSHIP COUNCIL |
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The Wisconsin Native Loan Fund (WINLF) is recruiting 12 individuals for our newly formed Leadership Council.
The Leadership Council will be comprised of low-income Native Americans in WINLF's service area. Individuals who serve on the Leadership Council will gain skills to prepare them for personal growth and leadership roles in their communities.
The goal of the Leadership Council is for participants to empower themselves, to improve their living situation, and to enhance their overall skills to advance personally and professionally as leaders in their community.
Leadership Council participants will increase their knowledge of WINLF’s financial education programs, including expanding their awareness of Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs), and receive mentoring to prepare them to take part in local government and community boards, such as Housing boards, Tribal Councils, Zoning boards and more.
WINLF is also recruiting mentors who are business owners, teachers and community leaders with experience in local government, boards and Tribal Councils. Mentors will be asked to participate by occasionally presenting subjects they specialize in to the Leadership Council. Mentors will be paired with participants on a local level to provide guidance based on participants’ interests.
The Leadership Council will meet twice a month. Meetings will last approximately an hour. One of the monthly sessions will focus on receiving participants’ input on WINLF's development of new products to meet potential borrowers' needs, identifying group training goals, and providing peer support. The second monthly meeting will provide participants the opportunity to learn from leaders in Tribal communities as well as educational presentations based on the team goals selected by participants.
The Leadership Council will start by meeting virtually, and when appropriate, transition to in-person meetings that will include presentations.
Participants who attend both monthly meetings will receive a $50 monthly stipend to offset any costs associated with participation and any cost associated with travel will be paid by WINLF.
The Leadership Council project is funded by a Catholic Campaign for Human Development grant.
Individuals interested in joining the Leadership Council as a participant or mentor should click HERE to complete a brief survey.
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Encouraging Financial Conversations |
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Registration for the April Encouraging Financial Conversations course is now open!
Encouraging Financial Conversations is a program designed for case managers, social workers, and other frontline staff to help empower clients to achieve their financial goals and manage their money. Participants will learn techniques and strategies to help their clients:
- Create financial goals action plan
- Build and maintain good credit
- Pay off debts
- Develop a spending and savings plan
- Protect themselves from fraud and identity theft
Participants will also learn coaching strategies that capitalize on a client’s strengths and resources in coming up with solutions.
The Encouraging Financial Conversations course will be Mondays and Wednesdays from 11am to 12pm the following dates:
Week 1: April 12 & 14
Week 2: April 19 & 21
Week 3: April 26 & 28
Click HERE to register for the course.
There is no fee for the course and will be held via Zoom.
If you have questions, please contact majohnson45@wisc.edu with any questions.
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Interested in upcoming events?
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Red Cliff Tribal Administration Office
88455 Pike Road
Bayfield, Wi. 54814
715-779-3700
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