Turtle press MOST INFLUENTIAL IN GRAND RAPIDS - NHBP Tribal Member honored with nomination
←
→
Page content transcription
If your browser does not render page correctly, please read the page content below
t ur t l e
press
HONORING MOS T INFL UENTIAL AL COHOL
A L EGACY IN GR AND R APIDS AWARENESS MONT H
NHBP Tribal Elder NHBP Tribal Member NHBP Tribal Member shares
Shirley English retires honored with nomination her recovery journey
ON PAGE 0 4 ON PAGE 12 ON PAGE 14
SPRING 202 1
i TURTLE PRESS | SPRING 2021
cont ent s
TRIBAL T U RT L E PR E SS CON TAC T S TR IBA L COUNCIL MEMBER S
COUNCIL COMMUNITY JUDI HENCKEL | EDITOR IN CHIEF JAMIE STUCK | CHAIRPERSON JEFF CHIVIS, PH.D. | TREASURER
269.704.8361 | JUDITH.HENCKEL@NHBP-NSN.GOV DESK PHONE: 269.704.8384 DESK PHONE: 269.704.4166
06 2018 - 2022 STRATEGIC PLAN 12 NHBP TRIBAL MEMBER NOMINATED AS CELL: 269.986.3441 CELL: 269.832.1073
MOST INFLUENTIAL IN GRAND RAPIDS LEIA FULLER | MANAGING EDITOR EMAIL: JAMIE.STUCK@NHBP-NSN.GOV EMAIL: JEFF.CHIVIS@NHBP-NSN.GOV
22 A VOICE FOR TRIBAL NATIONS CHAIR APPOINTMENTS: CHAIR APPOINTMENTS:
TAYLOR KOOPMAN | ASSISTANT EDITOR EDUCATION COMMITTEE AND TRIBAL ENVIRONMENTAL ADVISORY
JOURNEY TO WELLNESS COMMITTEE COMMITTEE, OGITCHEDAW SOCIETY, AND
JAKY REPLOGLE | LEAD DESIGN & PHOTOGRAPHY INDIGENOUS RIGHTS COMMITTEE
DORIE RIOS | VICE CHAIRPERSON
EMILEE GUZAK | DESIGN & PHOTOGRAPHY DESK PHONE: 269.704.8382 HOMER A. MANDOKA | SERGEANT-AT-ARMS
CELL: 269.209.3024 DESK PHONE: 269.704.8381
H E A LT H FIREKEEPERS EMAIL: DORIE.RIOS@NHBP-NSN.GOV CELL: 269.986.1802
CHAIR APPOINTMENTS: EMAIL: HOMERA.MANDOKA@NHBP-NSN.GOV
22 ALCOHOL AWARENESS MONTH 20 CASINO CONNECTION ENROLLMENT COMMITTEE, CHAIR APPOINTMENTS:
HOUSING COMMITTEE, AND PLANNING AND LAND USE
CEMETERY AND PARKS COMMITTEE COMMITTEE AND TRIBAL EMERGENCY
PREPAREDNESS COMMITTEE
NANCY SMIT | SECRETARY
DESK PHONE: 269.704.8431 ROBYN BURLINGHAM | COUNCIL COORDINATOR
CELL: 269.275.2289 DESK PHONE: 269.704.8373
EMAIL: NANCY.SMIT@NHBP-NSN.GOV EMAIL: RBURLINGHAM@NHBP-NSN.GOV
WA S É Y A B E K GA MING COMMISSION CHAIR APPOINTMENTS:
CULTURE COMMITTEE AND
24 MCKAY TOWER ACQUISITION 02 HONORING A LEGACY ELDERS COMMITTEE
NAMED MIBIZ’S 2020 REAL 10 NHBP INTRODUCES NEW COMMISSION
ESTATE DEAL OF THE YEAR CHAIR TO COMMUNITYii 01 TURTLE PRESS | SPRING 2021
HONORING A LEGACY:
SHIRLEY ENGLISH
WRITTEN BY LEIA FULLER
Love, respect, bravery, truth, honesty, humility and wisdom. after English retired. “She was even-tempered, and had this Left: Tribal Elder Shirley English speaks at the 20th Anniversary of Federal Recognition event. Above: Tribal Elder Shirley English is
As a true leader in the Bodéwadmi (Potawatomi) culture, amazing ability to listen to everyone’s opinion and make a presented an award from the National Indian Gaming Association Chairman Ernie Stevens.
Tribal Elder Shirley English embodied these values throughout decision that was best for all parties.”
her entire career with NHBP. Her ability to demonstrate the
Seven Grandfather Teachings every day, in everything she English grew up on the Pine Creek Indian Reservation “Shirley had a picture of the Seven Grandfather Teachings According to NIGA, “federal recognition reaffirms the federal
does, is just one of the reasons English grew to become a during a time when there was nothing but a few houses, in her office because she believed in them so strongly, and rights that are reserved in the treaties established as far
beloved and trusted voice in the Community. some would call shacks. She strived to make something of she never preached about it, she would simply just live it,” back as the 1800s, and ensures Tribal self-sufficiency,
herself in this world, and she did just that. English earned Rogers said. “She really incorporated them in her everyday economic development, health care, education, housing
Holding numerous positions at FireKeepers Casino Hotel, recognition as Regulator of the Year by the National Indian life. Here she was, someone who played a pivotal, I mean and the commitment to the rebuilding of the physical
the NHBP Tribal government, and on Tribal Council, English Gaming Association several times, and most recently was massive role with federal recognition, and she never bragged community for future generations.” All of these opportunities
has been a backbone for the Tribe for several years. In awarded with the Chairman’s Leadership Award from NIGA about it. She truly was so humble and down to Earth.”
were forged when English, and the rest of the Tribal leaders,
late 2020, English announced that she would be retiring for her contributions to NHBP.
helped NHBP receive federal recognition.
as the Gaming Commission Chair at the end of the year. A English has served various roles on Tribal Council starting
bittersweet moment for the Tribe, indeed, but one that allows English’s success is further proof of her ability to create in the late 1960s, concluding with her last position as Tribal
Without English, the Tribe would not have achieved the level
us to reflect back on some of her greatest accomplishments. something out of nothing, and her versatility to make it in Council Chairwoman in 1995. During this time, she was a
of success that it is blessed with today. And to honor her
a world where at the time an Indigenous woman was not crucial voice in achieving federal recognition for NHBP – a
“Shirley was one of those people who had an array of process that was years in the making, and full of setbacks legacy, Tribal Council took a few moments at the December
highly respected, let alone a leader. She broke barriers, and
qualities that you just wanted to emulate,” said Tribal Member always showed the Seven Grandfather Teachings wherever from the federal government. This achievement opened up 2020 Tribal Council Business Meeting to participate in a
Chris Rogers, who took over as Gaming Commission Chair she went. several opportunities for the Tribe. short ceremony.
02 03 TURTLE PRESS | SPRING 2021
Tribal Elder Shirley English beams with pride at the FireKeepers Casino Hotel 10th Anniversary.
Tribal Elder Shirley English (second from left) watches as NHBP receives federal recognition.
CHI MIGWÉCH
“On behalf of Tribal Council, and the entire NHBP Nation, we would like to say a big Chi Migwéch to
Shirley for her contributions and service to NHBP,” Tribal Council Chairperson Jamie Stuck said. “Without
her leadership, tenacity and integrity, we would not be where we are today. We thank you for always
embodying the Seven Grandfather Teachings, all you have done for the next Seven Generations, and for
helping shape this Tribe. We cannot thank you enough for your service to this great Nation.”
Tribal Council Secretary Nancy Smit and Tribal Council
Chairperson Jamie Stuck honor Tribal Elder Shirley English
with a blanket.
04 05 TURTLE PRESS | SPRING 2021
2018 – 2022 STRATEGIC PLAN
BUI L D I N G
WELLNESS
NHBP Health and Human Services Department
Implements COVID-19 Vaccinations
The NHBP Health and Human Services Department has now
administered over 1,000 doses of the COVID-19 vaccine manufactured
by Moderna and Pfizer. NHBP opted to receive the vaccines through This HHS Mobile Testing Trailer Project was supported by:
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) CDC-RFA-OT20-2004, Supporting Tribal Public
Indian Health Services, rather than the state of Michigan, due to the Health Capacity in Coronavirus Preparedness and Response as part of a financial assistance award totaling $249,702 with 70 percent funded by CDC/
HHS and 30 percent funded by non-federal government source(s). The contents are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official
great support IHS has been throughout the pandemic. views of, nor an endorsement, by CDC/HHS, or the U.S. Government.
• Michigan’s FY 20 Coronavirus Emergency Supplemental Funding Program #2020-VD-BX-0434, awarded by the Bureau of Justice Assistance, Office of
Justice Programs, U.S. Department of Justice, and administered by the Michigan State Police. Points of view or opinions contained within
this document do not necessarily represent the official position or policies of the DOJ or the MSP.
“We received 30 Pfizer vaccines on Dec. 15 and began receiving the Moderna
vaccine on Dec. 22,” said NHBP Community Health Outreach Manager Cameryn
Ryan. “We likely will not be receiving any more of the Pfizer vaccines due to the in people who received two doses who had no evidence of being previously
storage requirements and logistics for distribution through IHS, but we have infected. Based on evidence from clinical trials, the Pfizer vaccine was 95%
been receiving 100 doses of the Moderna vaccine weekly.” effective at preventing COVID-19 illness in people without
evidence of previous infection.
The HHSD is prepared and expecting that they may start to receive
more than 100 doses of Moderna’s vaccine weekly. However, there is an “Even if you are vaccinated, there is a chance you can still get COVID-19 and spread it,”
incredibly high demand throughout the nation for the Moderna vaccine Ryan said. “CDC guidance on this may change as more data is available. The vaccine
since it is easier to handle and store, so this is not guaranteed. just helps ensure that you do not develop complications with the virus.”
The vaccine rollout from the HHSD first went to Elders, then HHSD Currently, NHBP Tribal Members’ spouses are eligible to be added to the NHBP
and Tribal Police Department staff. After this, the vaccine was available COVID-19 vaccine waiting list, but at this time, children under 18 cannot receive
to all frontline workers, Tribal Members, and in the near future, the Moderna vaccine.
the rest of NHBP staff.
The HHSD has purchased a trailer, funded primarily by the 2020 United States
“We are currently working through the priorities as approved by Tribal Council,” Cares Act. Initially, the trailer will be used at FireKeepers Casino Hotel for drive
Ryan said. “The Centers for Disease Control established priorities. up COVID-19 testing. Long term, the trailer will be used as a more suitable first
However, NHBP as a sovereign Nation could establish priorities in aid space for events like the Pow Wow and Gathering, and mobile
keeping with the spirit and intent of the CDC.” vaccine clinics.
The vaccine requires two shots, a few weeks apart. In clinical trials, the Call the NHBP COVID-19 Vaccine Hotline at 269.704.8504 and the HHSD will
Moderna vaccine was 94.1% effective at preventing COVID-19 illness determine your priority placement and add you to the waiting list. Once your
priority category has been reached, you will be contacted to schedule your
Above Middle: Tribal Elder Claude Ryan receives a dose of the COVID-19 vaccine. vaccine appointment.
07 TURTLE PRESS | SPRING 2021
06 07
BU I LD I N G
ORGA N IZA TION A L
EXCELLENCE
NHBP Honors Employees
with Service Awards
The NHBP Tribal government honored several employees with
years of service awards in late 2020 at a special ceremony
held at the Pine Creek Community Center. With masks in
place, all employees honored were given a specific time slot
to reduce the contact with others during this pandemic. Even
with the masks covering half of their faces, smiles could be
seen through their eyes.
Each recipient was gifted a special plaque and a box full of
goodies made special by FireKeepers Casino Hotel.
“We are grateful for the years of service these employees
have dedicated to our Tribal Nation, and we thank you for the
work you have done to improve the lives of the next Seven
Generations of NHBP,” CEO Barry Skutt said.
10 Year Recipients
Rebecca Griffin Eric Kerney
Jody Korn Russell Krause
Tony Teffner Ben Tenney
Darrel Vorce
5 Year Recipients
Shane Childs Amos Day
Erin Cleveland Derrick Day
Top Left: Clinical Manager Nicole Edson prepares a dose of the
vaccine. Bottom Left: The NHBP Health and Human Services True Dwyer Courtney Echols
Department celebrates administering the 1,000th dose of
the COVID-19 vaccine. Top Right: Health Information/Clinical Steven Eddy Nicole Edson
Applications Kathie Grothaus gives Tribal Member Kaytlin Perry
a vaccine. Bottom Right: Tribal Member Doris Goodrich, RN, Nichole Jones Patricia McClure
volunteers time to administer vaccinations.
Brianne Parrish Jaky Replogle
Jonathan Rinehart Heidi Ruohomaki
Jacob Sheber III Jeffrey Smith
08 09 TURTLE PRESS | SPRING 2021
GROWING THE NHBP is pleased to welcome Chris Rogers as
TADIWEN NAGANJEK the newly-appointed Chair of the NHBP Gaming
Commission. As a longtime leader in the Community,
Rogers’ new role comes as no surprise following
(GAMING COMMISSION) the retirement of former Chair Shirley English in
late 2020.
As Commission Chair, Rogers is charged with
promoting Tribal economic development and
self-sufficiency, maintaining the integrity of Indian
gaming, and ensuring that NHBP is the primary
beneficiary of its gaming activities. In carrying out Prior to his appointment as Chair, Rogers served as
these responsibilities in a manner that promotes an NHBP Gaming Commissioner for more than five
and preserves the Bodéwadmi values and traditions, years. He currently sits on the board for Waséyabek
the Commission strives to be guided by the Seven Development Company, LLC, as vice chair, and is
Grandfather Teachings – Debnawen (Love), a member of NHBP’s Housing Committee and
Wdetanmowen (Respect), Wédaséwen (Bravery), Planning and Land Use Committee. In addition to
Débwéwen (Truth), Gwékwadsewen (Honesty), his commitments to the Tribe, Rogers also owns
Èdbésendowen (Humility) and Bwakawen (Wisdom). and operates a successful real estate company
based out of Battle Creek, and serves on the board
for the Substance Abuse Council, as well as the
Young Child Association. True to his benevolent
nature, he is also an eight-gallon blood donor for
the American Cross.
“On behalf of Tribal Council, we are proud to
announce Chris Rogers as Chair of the Gaming
Commission,” Tribal Council Chairperson Jamie
Stuck said. “I’m confident that his experience as a
Gaming Commissioner for the past several years,
as well as his relations with FireKeepers Casino
NHBP INTRODUCES NEW Hotel, and dedication to several NHBP committees,
will continue to be a valuable asset for the Tribe.”
COMMISSION CHAIR TO COMMUNITY
WRITTEN BY TAYLOR KOOPMAN
PHOTO BY EMILEE GUZAK
10 11 TURTLE PRESS | SPRING 2021
NHBP Tribal Member Camie Castaneda was nominated in January 2021 as one of the most influential
people in Grand Rapids, Michigan. After receiving 470 initial nominations for the 2020 Influential
Awards, the MPWRD Business Magazine narrowed it down to 144 official nominees – one of which
was Castaneda. The nomination recognizes those that are “shaping culture, community, business
and humanity in Grand Rapids and West Michigan.”
Castaneda, who works as the NHBP Northern Supervisor for the Culture and Membership Services
Departments, serves on several boards in the Grand Rapids area, making her a perfect candidate
for this nomination.
“Camie works tirelessly to advocate, support and lift up the Native community through her multiple
official roles,” said Stacy Stout, who works as the City of Grand Rapids Director of Equity and
Engagement and is Chair of the Grand Rapids Public Schools Native American Parent Committee,
on which Castaneda also serves. “All but one of these positions is a volunteer role.”
In addition to her parent committee work supporting K-12 Native American students in Grand
Rapids, Castaneda serves as Vice Chairperson on the Anishinaabe Circle Board of Directors, which
is an urban nonprofit Native American organization that advocates for the Anishnabék Community
in Grand Rapids.
“Camie is a skilled and dedicated advocate who shows up prepared in everything she does,” Stout
said. “She approaches everything unapologetically, but also in love, so she is able to navigate a lot
of different spaces because she is centered in love of community and justice.”
Most recently, Castaneda was appointed by City of Grand Rapids Mayor Rosalynn Bliss to serve
on the Grand Rapids Community Relations Commission to elevate Native concerns, voices, and
wisdom. Castaneda also co-wrote the Indigenous Peoples' Day proclamation that was supported
by the City of Grand Rapids.
“Camie loves the Community so much, from our Elders, to our youth, to our peers,” Stout said. “As
Indigenous and local Natives, we are up against a lot of systems that weren’t designed for our
success, and Camie works to change those systems. She works to support Indigenous People
Tribal Member Camie Castaneda is nominated as most influential in Grand Rapids for her work personally and professional with Native culture. celebrate who we are – our culture, our language, our teachings, and our People.”
Castaneda organized the COVID-19 Essential Care Package Program for Anishnabék families in
NHBP TRIBAL MEMBER NOMINATED Grand Rapids with with a group of local volunteers. During the pandemic, she also worked with the
Kent County Health Department to distribute masks, thermometers and other personal protection
AS MOST INFLUENTIAL IN
“
equipment, as well as educate the community on COVID-19 prevention to youth and Elder households.
I continue to do the work I do in Grand Rapids for our Indigenous Population because I grew up in
GRAND RAPIDS this community and was able to see the hard work our Elders have done for us to be where we are
today,” Castaneda said. “There are so many amazing people in our community that I am honored
to work with and together we all contribute to the work that is being done for our Anishnaabek.
WRITTEN BY LEIA FULLER I love my community and I love our people. I feel that this is my purpose in life.”
12 APPLIQUÉ ARTWORK BY TRIBAL MEMBER AMANDA WESTRA 13
APRIL: 24%
of Native American 10%
adults in Michigan
ALCOHOL BINGE DRINK. of Native American
adults in Michigan have
USED PRESCRIPTION
AWARENESS DRUGS TO GET HIGH.
MONTH
WRITTEN BY LEIA FULLER
45%
In honor of Alcohol Awareness Month, NHBP Behavioral
Health shines a spotlight on alcohol/drug dependency
and recovery – with one NHBP Tribal Member sharing her
journey to sobriety – and how Tribal Members struggling with
substance abuse can begin their recovery with Behavioral other scheduling components. Oftentimes, Beatty is able
decrease of drug use on
clients who COMPLETED TRIBAL
TREATMENT AND RECOVERY.
55%
decrease of drug
Health services at an NHBP Health Facility. to complete this in less than 24 hours, even when facing
several conflicts due to the COVID-19 pandemic. 37% decrease of alcohol use on use on clients who
The Behavioral Health program is easily accessible, making clients who COMPLETED TRIBAL COMPLETED MEDICAL
it fairly simple to obtain detox and/or inpatient treatment. “I currently have three patients in South Dakota and six in
All Members need to do is contact Behavioral Health Case southern California,” Beatty said. “I stay with them in the
TREATMENT AND RECOVERY. ASSISTED TREATMENT
Manager David Beatty, who works out of the Pine Creek process from A-Z and continue support after treatment, as (MAT) INTAKE.
Health Facility. well. I’m their case manager in their pocket and advocate
for them continuously.”
“I have an informal conversation with the Member, try and
help them feel listened to, see what they desire, and then give Members may also choose to attend a Virtual Wellbriety
them options,” Beatty said. “I work out the communication Recovery group meeting once per week to help with their
between the individual, the treatment program and Forest recovery journey.
55.1%
County Potawatomi."
For inpatient treatment or accessing detox services, please
Tribal Members can choose any program, anywhere in contact Case Manager David Beatty at 269.986.9019, the
the country. Beatty is able to book the flight on behalf of Pine Creek Health Facility at 269.729.4422, or the Grand
the Tribal Member, and assist with transportation and Rapids Health Facility at 616. 249.0159. STATISTICS PROVIDED BY THE
INTER-TRIBAL COUNCIL OF MICHIGAN
of clients with an opioid
14 diagnosis WERE WOMEN.
HOW A 45 -DAY BR E A K FROM BOOZE
TR ANSFORMED INTO ONE YEAR
(AND COUNTING) ALCOHOL-FREE
A JOURNEY OF SELF-DISCOVERY & CHANGE
T O WA R D S A H E A LT H I E R H A P P I E R L I F E
WRITTEN BY KRISTAL HEIBEL | PHOTOS PROVIDED BY KRISTAL HEIBEL I functioned well in life, but my drinking was excessive and taking its toll now
being in my thirties. Sure, I would slow down and just have a few or not drink
for a couple of weeks, but I would always fall right back into old habits. It took
a while before this resonated within me and intentions became clear. Yet I'm
grateful for my past, as it led me where I'm at today.
It was New Year’s Eve and the countdown to 2021 began.
A few of us shouted “5, 4, 3, 2, 1”! before the clock struck
This journey began with feelings of discomfort, fear, and doubt, but within three
midnight. “Happy New Year!” echoed throughout the living
months has transformed into an exciting journey of self-discovery, clarity, and
room as party favor sounds pierced my ear drums. I smiled
endless possibilities. I didn’t expect to be alcohol-free this long until about six
and blinked back the gentle tears starting to form. I took
months in, and I definitely didn’t expect my whole life to change in all the ways
a deep breath and savored this joy-filled moment. “I did
it has and continues to. But I’m grateful it has.
it,” I thought to myself. “I made it one year alcohol free!” I
was in awe. My heart was full of so much gratitude as I
drove home sober and entered the New Year. For me, this has become so much more than just abstaining from drinking,
but rather a journey into whole health – healing and growing physically,
emotionally, mentally, and spiritually. I have had to challenge myself by venturing
Usually by midnight on New Year’s Eve I’d be wasted and
into unknowns and removing non-serving thoughts, behaviors, and habits to
lucky if I could even remember the whole thing the next
make space in my life to pursue my passions and have fun being creative
day. For years, the morning after typically consisted of
with newfound hobbies. My relationship with myself has strengthened, in turn
sleeping until noon, curing hangovers, eating junk food,
strengthening my relationships with others.
feeling lethargic, and being anxious all day from drinking
too much the night before. But this time, I knew I’d wake up
the next morning refreshed from a deep sleep, energized, Do I solely credit not drinking for all this change? No, not solely. But like a
and anxiety-free. Instead of hangover foods, I would be domino effect, I had to knock down that barrier to get everything else in motion.
eating a healthy breakfast – and well before noon. And simply put, I was ready to do the work.
Ever since turning 21 alcohol was a constant in my life.
It was there for every occasion – good times, bad times,
Left: Tribal Member Kristal Heibel before her sobriety journey began.
vacations, holidays, or simply because it was the weekend. Right: Tribal Member Kristal Heibel.
Drinking in my twenties was fun, but it turned into a habit I
indulged far too often and too regularly. It was something
I proudly embraced as part of my lifestyle. Before now, 30
days had been the longest I’d ever gone without drinking.
16 17 TURTLE PRESS | SPRING 2021• My Inner Circle I held tight to my closest family and friends and shared my
SO HOW DID I DO IT? journey with them. I reached out when I needed to talk. When it was time to
celebrate milestones, they were there beside me.
T H I S I S W H AT W O R K E D F O R M E : • Self-Care In addition to the above, I read a lot, spent time in nature, and went
for a lot of walks. I focused on whole health. Most of my diet consisted of whole
foods and nutrient-dense foods.
• I was Ready (This is a Big One) I had tried 30-day hiatuses before, struggled
through them, and couldn’t wait for them to be over so I could drink again. This
time was different. I was ready to change. Timing truly is everything. I embraced
the tough feelings, emotions, and struggles. I sat with it and welcomed it rather
than struggled against it. It wasn’t easy at times, but the tough times passed
• What Was My ‘Why’ Why did I feel I needed or wanted to change
and got easier over time. About three months in brought more hope and clarity.
my relationship with alcohol? There were many reasons. I felt
That’s when the beautiful magic really started to happen. I was more confident,
blah, my energy was dull, and drinking wasn’t as fun as it used
felt like I had more control, and trust within myself. It became easier to continue.
to be. I could go on, but in summary I wanted a higher level
I also noticed I had started changing and I really liked this person I was becoming.
of health and happiness and I knew my drinking habits were
keeping me from getting there.
• Celebrate Milestones! I made a big deal about my milestones – one month,
three months, etc. Sometimes I would celebrate with a pedicure or a meal from
• My Starting Kit I had to replace my booze kit with more healthy
a favorite restaurant. Or I would take pictures of glowing skin and a radiant
options. I started with herbal teas to drink at night instead of
smile and compare them to hungover pictures from the past. I celebrated New
my usual glass (or glasses) of wine, and a few small pieces
Year’s Eve with cake and enjoyed sparkling grape juice. I bought new clothes
of dark chocolate each day, as a treat. Instead of happy hours,
when I lost my booze belly and needed smaller sizes. The point is, I made the
I focused on reading books and hobbies that interested me.
journey fun and made sure to have things to look forward to along the way.
• Social Media I followed an alcohol-free group on social media
and read through other’s personal stories on their struggles
with alcohol, their alcohol-free journey’s, and successes.
So, the Big Question – Will I have a glass of wine someday?
• Daily Mindfulness I found a 365-day mindfulness journal and
I don’t know what the future holds, but the desire and need for drinking is gone now.
committed myself to a mindfulness activity daily.
My health and happiness are finally more important than booze, and I’m definitely
happier and healthier. So today, I will continue living without alcohol, with January
• Personal Journal I journaled my journey throughout the year. 2021 marking the one year point on my alcohol-free journey.
How I felt. What thoughts I had. How my body felt, and then over
time how it changed and healed. I journaled when emotional What I know for certain is life is so much more beautiful, peaceful, joyful, and
triggers came up, when profound breakthroughs occurred, healthy now. I absolutely love this version of myself, and I feel good! I know now, not
and when I started experiencing the benefits. I journaled past only did drinking numb everything I intended it to – hurt, past pain, and the things I
experiences and worked through forgiveness. I wrote what didn’t want to deal with – it also numbed everything I never wanted it to – joy, being
it was like going through vacations, holidays, and my birthday present, all the love and beauty of life, and truly living.
alcohol-free. I also wrote down things I was grateful for.
Disclosure: I realize everyone’s relationship with alcohol is different and uniquely
• Counseling I had counseling sessions the first few months to be their own. This is me simply sharing my story and what worked for me. If by sharing,
able to vent and to make sure I was getting the support I needed. it helps someone going through a similar challenge, then great! However, I’m not a
medical expert and those interested in an alcohol-free journey should seek/research
whatever help it is they may personally need before getting started.
18 19 TURTLE PRESS | SPRING 2021FIREKEEPERS ONLINE
CASINO & SPORTSBOOK
CASINO CONNECTION Coming soon! Get Your Vegas On from your phone,
WRITTEN BY FKCH | PHOTO PROVIDED BY FKCH tablet, or laptop. Play the hottest slots or table
games, including craps and blackjack. Plus, sports
Hello fellow Tribal Members, betting with in-game wagering. Same big casino
FireKeepers Casino Hotel is excited to be nearing the jackpots and same big game action!
opening of the second hotel tower. With this expansion,
FKCH has several job openings and as the Tribal Development
Coordinator, I am available to assist you with the application
VISIT FIREKEEPERSCASINO.COM
process or answer any questions you may have about
establishing a career with FKCH.
FOR ALL THE LATEST DETAILS.
In addition, we also have two unique programs designed for Play online with FireKeepers for
Tribal Members who are in school or have graduated: the
Summer Internship Program and the Career Development Michigan’s Home Field Advantage!
Specialist Program.
The Summer Internship Program runs from May through August and is a 12-week paid internship that
consists of 400 hours of on-the-job training. Throughout the program, you will gain experience working
in all areas of the Casino and Hotel. The departments covered in the program are: Slots, Table Games,
Marketing, Finance, Hotel, Facilities, Human Resources, Information Technology, Food and Beverage,
and Security and Surveillance. Applicants must be at least 18 years old and in college, or planning to go
to college. During weekly department rotations, Tribal Members will work hand-in-hand with all levels of
staff to learn about the differing roles and responsibilities of the various departments. Interns are also
responsible for weekly reports as well as a final presentation of their intern experience. This is a great
opportunity to jump-start your career! THE ACTION IS HEATING UP
The Career Development Specialist Program is a two-year program similar to the Summer Internship With the Baseball regular season about to start and
Program in that you rotate throughout the departments. However, after 12 weeks you begin working in a Basketball and Hockey heating up as playoffs approach,
specific department of your choosing. For example, if you graduated with a finance degree and want to there’s no better place to watch and wager on every game,
learn all about accounting, the program would focus on working within the Accounting Department. This
program is ideal for recent college graduates who want to gain real world experience catered to
every sport, every season than Dacey’s Sportsbook!
their degree.
We also have a variety of other jobs online at www.firekeeperscasino.com/about/careers/, where you can
submit your application if you see a job you are interested in. If you have specific questions, please feel
free to contact me, Dane Stauffer, at 269.660.5411 or dlstauffer@firekc.com.
Migwéch!
20 Visit FireKeepersCasino.com for promotional details. 21 TURTLE PRESS | SPRING 2021
Management reserves all rights.Another unique aspect of this commission is to bring together Burlingham also hopes this commission will allow her to
A VOICE FOR various individuals across the state of Michigan, who come
from different backgrounds, ethnicities, and careers, to
collectively share out information with their peers. By each
share information and dispel some of the myths related
to the COVID-19 virus and vaccinations, so that people
can make a better, well-informed decision for themselves.
TRIBAL NATIONS
individual sharing information with those around them,
the hope is that people will begin to trust the safety and “NHBP is honored that our very own Tribal Member, Robyn
effectiveness of the COVID-19 vaccine. Burlingham, was selected to represent and provide Native
Nations a voice in Michigan,” Tribal Council Vice Chairperson
“While COVID-19 wasn’t aimed at one group of individuals, Dorie Rios said. “We are grateful and blessed to have a Tribal
TRIBAL MEMBER we do know that paired with the lack of access to quality
health care in African American and Native communities,
Member committed to not only helping the Indigenous
population, but all populations in Michigan Mno Bmadzewen
APPOINTED TO THE PROTECT
we’ve been hit harder,” Burlingham said. “The fact is, it hit {live a better life}.”
everybody. But with little to no access to health care, or
so many preexisting health issues because of the lack Along with her appointment to this state commission,
MICHIGAN COMMISSION of health care for decades, we have been hit harder than
other communities.”
Burlingham currently also serves on the NHBP Culture
and Housing Committee.
Throughout the entire COVID-19 pandemic, Natives and “I can’t and won’t tell people what to believe, but we can
other minority groups across the state have contracted just share the facts that we know, and hope each individual
the virus at higher rates and experienced higher mortality makes the best decision for themselves and their families,”
rates. A personal goal for Burlingham is to help educate and Burlingham said. “We will never know the lives that are
shine a light on the treatment of minority groups across the saved through the vaccinations, but we can certainly try
state, in hopes of improving their treatment in the future. to minimize the lives that we are losing and have lost.”
WRITTEN BY LEIA FULLER | PHOTO PROVIDED BY ROBYN BURLINGHAM
NHBP Tribal Member Robyn Burlingham was recently break down some of these barriers between the non-white
appointed by Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer to the population and the federal government.
Protect Michigan Commission. As part of the Michigan
Department of Health and Human Services, the commission “Historical trauma is really difficult to overcome,” Burlingham
will help raise awareness of the safety and effectiveness said. “We trusted the federal government and we got
of the approved COVID-19 vaccines, educate the people burned – bad. I am hoping that by gathering the facts about
of Michigan, and help protect the health and safety of all the vaccine and sharing them with our communities, we can
Michigan residents. start to move past that and heal as Indigenous Nations.”
When tensions are high and some populations are reluctant Creating the vaccine in a short time period – almost historic
to trust the government, especially given the history between speed – could be why there is resistance to trust the vaccine.
the United States government and Indigenous population, However, the quick approval of the vaccine was the result of
there are some reservations about getting the vaccine in speeding up the U.S. government’s regulatory process, not by
the Indigenous community. cutting corners on safety. According to the Johns Hopkins
Center for American Indian Health, the COVID-19 vaccine still
“I know there is a lot of hesitancy from Native populations had to go through clinical trials, just as every other vaccine,
and I understand that,” Burlingham said. “I know with our to ensure its safety.
historical trauma we have endured as Native peoples, we
are reluctant to believe that the federal government has our “There was a fast track to this vaccine, but there was a
best interest at heart all the time.” necessity to fast track this to get it in place to save lives,”
Burlingham said. “It did come out, relatively speaking, very
While educating Michiganders on the facts and safety of quickly. But the necessity was there, worldwide. Globally,
the FDA-approved vaccines, the commission will work to we needed it.” Tribal Member Robyn Burlingham receives a dose of the COVID-19 vaccine from fellow Tribal Member and Health
Information/Clinical Applications Kathie Grothaus.
22 23 TURTLE PRESS | SPRING 2021ICONIC MCKAY TOWER ACQUISITION WASÉYABEK FEDERAL SERVICES,
LLC, PROFESSIONAL SERVICES GROUP
NAMED MIBIZ’S 2020 REAL ESTATE AWARDED MULTI-YEAR AGREEMENT
WITH NATIONAL CREDIT UNION
ADMINISTRATION
DEAL OF THE YEAR
On Feb. 9, the Waséyabek Federal Services, LLC, Professional
WRITTEN BY PRESIDENT & CEO OF WASÉYABEK Services Group, led by Tom Rosenfeld, received notification
DEVELOPMENT COMPANY, LLC DEIDRA MITCHELL that it was awarded an agreement with the National Credit
Union Administration. This agreement will include WDC
subsidiary company DWH's involvement, which will be
working with Rosenfeld and his group to deliver services
to the NCUA.
The co-investment of McKay Tower in downtown Grand
Rapids by Waséyabek Development Company, LLC, and
Created by the U.S. Congress in 1970, the NCUA is an Waséyabek Federal Services Professional Services Group
Gun Lake Investments drew considerable attention from
independent agency of the United States government that Senior Managing Director Tom Rosenfeld.
national Tribal and West Michigan news and television
regulates, charters, and supervises federal credit unions.
outlets after the January 2020 acquisition. One year later,
NCUA also operates and manages the National Credit Union The NCUA awarding PSG this agreement is fundamental
the West Michigan Mergers and Acquisition community
Share Insurance Fund. Backed by the full faith and credit to WDC fulfilling its investment strategy. We believe
is still recognizing the landmark deal.
of the U.S. government, the NCUSIF insures the accounts that the performance of any business is tied to the
of millions of members in all federal credit unions and the economies in which it operates. Companies are living,
MiBiz publicly announced that WDC and GLI won the 2020 fluid organisms – some perform better in an expanding
vast majority of state-chartered credit unions.
Real Estate Deal of the Year Award in a special section economy and others in a declining market. As WDC
of its Feb. 15 edition of the paper. The usual in-person builds its family of businesses, we consider the position
WFS considers the work PSG will be doing with the NCUA
ceremony did not occur this year because of the pandemic. we think the business will best perform and attempt to
as "Federal Contracting Recession Work." Therefore, as the
economy is in more significant distress, PSG's work with make acquisitions distributed throughout the range of
For eight years, MiBiz has used this awards ceremony to economic upturns and downturns.
the NCUA will potentially increase.
spotlight best practices and excellence related to mergers,
acquisitions, capital formation, and other types of deal-
making throughout West Michigan. The panel of judges
who weighed the record number of overall submissions
for the 2020 Deal of the Year included investment bankers,
deal attorneys and other advisers.
“We are excited to invest in such an iconic and visible
property in downtown Grand Rapids,” said WDC President
and CEO Deidra Mitchell. “I want to thank James TenBrink
WDC President & CEO Deidra Mitchell and GLI CEO Kurtis Trevan and our amazing deal team for recognizing the relevance
featured in the February 15, 2021, special edition of MiBiz.
of this deal and getting it done.”
24 25 TURTLE PRESS | SPRING 2021WASÉYABEK FEDERAL SERVICES, LLC AWARDED
CONTRACT AT PRESTIGIOUS FERMILAB
In February 2021, Fermi Research Alliance, LLC, awarded Waséyabek Federal
Services, LLC, an Engineering Technician contract at Department of Energy-
funded Fermilab, America's foremost laboratory for particle physics and
accelerator research.
Located in Batavia, Illinois, thousands of scientists worldwide work in partnership
with Fermilab on cutting-edge particle physics research. These scientists study
the smallest particles of matter using some of the world's largest and most
complex machines. Their ultimate goal is to discover the building blocks of
the universe and how it works.
The Fermilab Muon g-2 ring sits in its detector hall amidst electronics racks, the muon beamline,
and other equipment. Photo: Fermilab
Fermilab hosts ground-breaking experiments while developing and building technologies
that support research at particle physics locations worldwide. It contributes to research
at deep underground laboratories in South Dakota (Sanford Underground Research
Facility), Canada (SNOLAB), the Large Hadron Collider in Europe, and the South Pole
Telescope. Not only does particle physics research focus on the building blocks of our
Wilson Hall with
reflection at sunrise. universe, but it also leads to innovative technologies that improve our quality of life,
Wilson Hall, the
central laboratory
such as magnetic resonance imaging, PET scans, and cancer therapy.
building, is the heart
of the 6,800-acre
WFS's agreement with Fermi Research Alliance is a one-year contract. Fermilab and
Fermilab site.
Photo: Fermilab Batavia, Illinois, are both a new customer and location for WFS, respectively.
26 27 TURTLE PRESS | SPRING 2021SPRING 2021
1 4 8 5 M N O - B M A D Z E W E N W AY, F U LT O N , M I C H I G A N 4 9 0 5 2
NHBPI.COM | 269.729.5151
NOTTAWASEPPI HURON BAND OF THE POTAWATOMI | TURTLE PRESS
28You can also read
