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| Red Lake Nation State of the Band Address February 25, 2011 Floyd Jourdain Jr Red Lake Tribal Chairman |
Boozhoo, fellow Red Lake nation members, honored guests, and friends
Greetings to you to all. My name is Floyd Jourdain Jr.
I am the Tribal Chairman of the Red Lake Band of Chippewa Indians.
It is my honor, and privilege to present to you on behalf of the entire Tribal Council,
and seven Hereditary Chiefs, the annual State of the Band address and report to
the people.
Acknowledgements
I will start first by thanking our spiritual elder Eugene Stillday for rendering this
morning’s invocation. The spiritual guidance that you offer is invaluable, and we
greatly appreciate the direction that you give us.
Before every monthly Tribal Council mtg, with the assistance of our Hereditary
Chiefs, Miskwanakwad renders our morning invocation, and then further, offers
words of wisdom to our leaders in keeping with tradition of the ojibwe of the Red
Lake reservation.
It is with our ancestors, elders, and predecessors in mind that we proceed from
that point conducting tribal affairs and doing the work necessary for the betterment
of the Red Lake nation.
Thank you Veterans, for honoring us with your presence here today, and to all
veterans, and their families. Thank you for your service.
Miigwetch, Red Lake singers, and to all the royalty that represent our Red Lake
nation so well throughout Indian country.
I would like to thank my wife Gina, my sons, my parents, relatives, and friends for
their support, and also to my Staff for everything they do and for a superb job in
organizing today’s event.
At this time I will introduce the Tribal Council , Treasurer Darryl Seki, Secretary
Donald Cook, Red Lake District Representatives, Roman Ducker Stately, and
Donald May Jr., Little Rock Representatives Richard Barrett, and Billy Greene
Ponemah Representatives Glenda Martin, and Gary Nelson, Redby District
Representatives Julius Toady Thunder and Alan Pemberton, Hereditary Chiefs
George King, John Sumner, Greetings Spears, Gerald Spears, Alexander
Gillespie, James Loud, Sam Smith.
I would like for the entire Tribal Council, and Chiefs to please stand. Ladies and
gentleman please join me in a round of applause for these fine men, and women.
Thank you, Council for you hard work, and for the commitment, and sacrifice that
you put forth for the Red Lake red lake nation as a whole and our entire band
membership.
Tribal Programs
I would like to thank the Tribal programs that are here with us today. As a tribal
Council we appreciate what you do for our citizens. Your jobs are important ones,
and we commend you on your dedication.
I encourage all who are in attendance here today to take a look around at the
services that our tribe has to offer. Our tribal programs continue to do a fine job.
And for this we thank you. Migwetch.
State of the Nation
I am here to report today that overall our tribe is doing well. Our businesses are
strong, and the ones that have struggled are being improved so that they will be
profitable in the future.
We have accomplished much over the past year, and have seen much progress.
But this past year has also been a hard one as many of our relatives, and friends
passed into the spirit world. We honor their memory today.
But with each passing there is new life and our tribe continues to grow. Secretary
Cook and the tribal enrollment committee recently reported at the January tribal
council meeting that to date, our band membership totals 10,586 members and
continues to grow every year.
Tribal Finances
The Red Lake band of Chippewa Indians is in sound financial condition. Our
annual audits are on time, and the permanent fund that suffered losses in the stock
market crash a couple years ago has rebounded nicely.
The advice the band received from our investment managers back then was to
stay the course.
Treasurer Seki is pleased to report to you today that the permanent fund account
balance that at one time had dwindled to around 47 million has rebounded to
$64,308,266.
Had the tribe not drawn down a portion from the allowable 6% interest per the
settlement terms for tribal distribution, reforestation, and other tribal unmet needs
the amount would now exceed 75 million plus interest.
The tribal Council however, decided that a distribution to all band members of 200
dollars at Christmas time would be a good use of the settlement money at a time
when band members of all ages can really use it.
Rainy Day Fund
In 2010 the Red Lake tribal Council established a rainy day fund to establish
reserves for unforeseen circumstances, and other tribal needs. It is good practice
to always have a reserve available should some sort of financial difficulty befall the
tribe, or an unexpected unmet emergency need arise. The rainy day fund now
totals nearly a million dollars.
I would like to thank Treasurer Seki and his staff on a job well done. There is
additional information at the Treasurers Booth located in the arena here today.
Diversification fund.
In 2010 the Red Lake gaming board established a new diversification fund for
small business loans, and business related investments. The Red Lake
Department of Economic development, The Minnesota Indian economic
development fund, and the Red Lake nation college are all working together to
provide technical assistance to band members in business plan writing, and
business administration training which is a requirement of the loan program. So far
the diversification fund has accumulated over 300.000 dollars.
Interested parties can contact Samuel Strong at Economic Development and
Planning
Blue Earth Consulting
In 2011 the band will continue to prioritize governmental reform, and business
restructuring in order to strengthen leadership, and bring an increased level of
success to Tribal businesses.
In 2010 the Band hired Blue earth consulting, a company that specializes in
strategic business analysis and planning to assist the tribe in conducting a
comprehensive analysis of all tribal businesses to determine how they can be
more productive, profitable, accountable, and professional.
Blue Earth consulting is currently conducting a series of businesses enterprise
reviews, and is working with the Department of economic development to advise
the tribal Council on how to make improvements.
Better business planning and management will lead to increased success which
ultimately means putting more band members to work as businesses reach new
levels of success.
This is the goal of the Tribal Council. This means implementing new policies,
procedures, accounting systems, and management plans that will enable the band
to adopt a uniform system that will help manage business more effectively.
The Red Lake fisheries, Retail center, Red Lake builders, Forest products, and
the new convenience store are all enterprises that are working with Blue Earth to
improve upon existing business capabilities.
Juvenile Justice Center
In 2010 The Red Lake band settled a 2.3 million dollar lawsuit with the bureau of
Indian affairs for their unwillingness to fully fund the operating cost of the juvenile
detention facility located behind the existing detention center.
Although the band did reached settlement, the government has still not agreed to
fund ongoing operating costs. All the awarded money will do is keep the lights,
heat, and facilities management going until the tribe can secure funding for staff,
and programming. Since 2005 the band has utilized moneys from other sources to
keep the facility from falling to waste.
The option for utilizing the facility for other youth related services such as
treatment, cultural activity, or education have not been ruled out at this point.
The original juvenile justice center concept incorporated education, culture, youth
advocacy, and community support into a detention setting. Simply locking kids up
has little affect in helping Native youth avoid the pitfalls and tragedy associated
with drugs, guns, gangs, alcohol, and suicide.
The building has lain dormant since 2005 when it was completed. During the
Clinton administration the Department of Justice and the BIA agreed to build, and
fund operation of detention facilities in Indian Country. The Justice Department
came through on its part, but the BIA to this day refuses to provide the funding for
the youth of the Red Lake reservation.
Ponemah Multi-Use Community Center
The Ponemah community facility is scheduled to open this year. The building is
designed to maximize energy efficiency by utilizing solar technology, water heated
panels, and geothermal heat pumps that use the earth to heat, and cool the
building.
Strategically placed windows will maximize daylight interior lighting which results in
energy efficiency. This “green” approach to construction represents a new era of
building that appears to be the wave of the future.
With a full gymnasium, library, computer room, kitchen, activities room, and
kitchen, the Center will meet the needs of community members of all ages. It will
also house the Ponemah Boys & Girls Club.
This is a project long overdue. Congratulations to the Ponemah community.
Special thanks goes out to the Ponemah Representatives Martin, Nelson, the
Ponemah community board, and the Community Coordinator Delwyn Holthusen
along with Sam Strong and his staff at Tribal Planning,
Also, DSGW Architects, Red Lake builders, the Red Lake Tribal Council, HUD,
the Shakopee Mdewankanton Souix community, and Minnesota State Senators
Al Franken, Amy Klobuchar, and Congressman Colin Peterson.
Also, Gitchi migwetch to Holly Cook McCarro for her consultation work on the
project in Washington D.C.
Little Rock/Redby Community Centers
The Red Lake band is currently in the planning process for the construction of two
new community centers in both Littlerock, and Redby. Potential funding options
include using tax increment financing, HUD grants, and grants made available
through the Shakopee Mdewankanton Sioux community. Preliminary estimates
range from 2.5 million to 3.2 million per facility.
If all goes according to preliminary plans the new community centers will be
completed by January of 2013.
Red Lake 7 clan’s Casino/Event Center
The new 7 clans Red Lake Casino and event center opened its doors in
December. Complete with a 40 room hotel, event center, and state of the art
gaming area. The facility has proven to be quite popular with guests from
surrounding areas, and local band members. Several national entertainment acts
have performed at the event center, and we have received reports that Chubby
Checker and Elvis were both spotted on the Rez in 2010.
.
Solid Waste Collection Sites.
New solid waste construction sites will be constructed in all districts this year.
Funding was delayed for a bit, and as cold weather set in the project was put off
until this spring .This will be a huge improvement in our waste disposal efforts. It
will also create additional jobs
The solid waste/transfer facility on 89 will also includes two new garbage trucks.
A reservation wide community clean up day is scheduled for April of this year.
Red Lake Gaming
Red Lake Gaming
In 2010 Red Lake gaming set its sites high, and was able to accomplish another
great year. For the 6th consecutive year Red Lake gaming set record revenues,
and received the “top casino award” from the Minnepolis/St Paul Journal.
Another crowning achievement by Red Lake gaming was partnering with Ingenus
management a company specializing in Indian casino management to secure a 10
year management contract for the new Spirit sands casino on the White Swan first
nations reserve in Manitoba. This gaming complex will feature 500 slots/ hotel, and
convention center, and will create 300 new jobs for 64 First nations in Manitoba
who are all co owners of the gaming operation.
In 1999 the National congress of American Indians and the First Nations of
Canada passed a resolution calling for nation to nation commerce, and trade
between Indigenous people. Once again the Red Lake Band of Chippewa Indians
as an innovator has set precedent by establishing international trade, and
commerce with Canadian first nations, and rejecting the notion that borders can
keep indigenous peoples from reconnecting as friend’s relatives, and business
partners like we have for centuries.
Red Lake has no money invested in the project, and our role will be to develop,
construct, and manage for a ten year period the facility in Manitoba at a cost of
nothing to the band. Over the course of 10 years the Red Lake Band will receive a
fee of 13 million dollars to fulfill these contract obligations.
Of course Red Lake gaming carefully assessed all aspects of the proposal before
presenting to the tribal leadership at Red Lake to assure that such facilities would
not compete directly with our Warrorad, and Thief River properties which is not the
case.
Red Lake Gaming is one of our main economic drivers for the reservation, and
continues to outperform the national trend that has seen an overall decline in
gaming revenues.
We now have 933 employees at our 3 properties.
Additional 2010 highlights include.
55.6 million in revenues up 20% over 46.6million in 2009
A net income of 9.2 million compared to 8.2 million in 2009
An increase of 1 million dollars.
Implemented phaze2 of a new training development program
Wages, taxes, health insurance, and employee benefits in 2010 totaled 23 million
Gaming Human resources reports
81% Red Lake band members employed at Red Lake Casino
62% Red Lake band members employed at Thief River Falls
16% Red Lake band members employed at Warroad Casino
Housing Authority
New construction completed this past year include
*Twenty units in the walking shield village using American recovery, and
Reinvestment Act funds through HUD.
*Three units were constructed by Northwest Technical College, and the Leech
Lake tribal college.These units will be located in the new Ponemah rental area.
*Three units were constructed by the military, and will also be located in the
Ponemah rental area.
*The Red Lake housing finance corporation entered into 1 new home loan with
homebuyer, and 18 loans for rehabilitation of existing units.
*Rental assistance and security deposits were provided to 62 families in Beltrami
County outside the reservation.
*Down payment assistance was provided to 2 families in Beltrami County off
reservation.
* Thirty one furnaces were replaced in units under housing authority management.
* Red Lake gaming allocated funds for the installation of 18 new septic systems for
privately owned homes.
Red Lake housing authority also installed 15 new septic systems on units under
housing authority management.
Public Safety Highlights
The 5th annual drug and gang summit was conducted earlier this month, and was
well attended.
The event was sponsored by Chemical Health with over 4oo participants attending.
Public safety conducted education sessions to area professionals on gangs,
drugs, and crime.
Public safety has assigned officers to the Ponemah community to be stationed at
the new police substation.
Two officers graduated from Artesia Police Academy, and have been hired by
public safety.
Congratulations to Stephen Dow, and Robert Lynch. Both Enrolled Red Lake
Band members who completed their training in New Mexico this winter.
Public safety has incorporated pharmaceutical drug training into investigations,
and curriculums.
New computer systems have been incorporated into police cars that can map and
pinpoint locations of emergency calls and locations.
Conservation officers continue to sponsor, and support reservation youth activities
such as take a kid fishing events and ATV safety training.
Increased the number of gang related arrests, and identification of gang members
coming to and from the reservation.
Saw a decrease in child abuse cases by 41% in 2010
Increased drug investigations by 38% in 2010 compared to 2009
3 new federal drug investigations opened in 2010
Seized several hundred illegal pharmecutical drugs in 2010.
Continue to seize other drugs such as crack cocaine when found on the
reservation.
20 illegal, or stolen weapons seized by the Red Lake Police and ATF.
Received 811,000 dollars in grant funding in 2010 with 300 thousand being
baseline increase funding from the BIA.
Public safety reported significant declines in assaults, vandalism, disorderly
conduct, weapons violations, and drug possession charges.
Conservation Dept
The conservation Dept consists of 5 officers. They enforce tribal fish, and game
laws.
Some conservation community activities included
Boys& girls club mentoring program.
ATV safety training for reservation youth.
Hunting safety, and firearm safety program, and certificates for kids.
Take a kid fishing events.
Conservation responded to 492 wild and domestic animal complaints last year.
New Beginnings
There are many positive changes happening ay New Beginnings. Too numerous
to mention here, must probably most notable is the establishment and pursuit of a
TANF program that will allow the Red Lake band to access direct funding through
the federal government, and to transition out of the MFIP model.
This will result in increased funding for the tribe, and more opportunities for band
members that utilize services through new Beginnings.
The educational training center at Redby over the years has gradually turned more
to social service type programming. The original intent was to provide training and
skills to band members so that they could compete in the workforce.
The goal of New beginnings is to strengthen those aspects of the program.
Working with the Red Lake Nation College, Northwest technical college, BSU, and
the Red Lake schools, New Beginnings strives to get back to that original mission
and support the educational goals of Red lake band members.
Enrollment in the GED program is up, and the childcare program at new
beginnings has seen increases in childcare participation.
This year New Beginnings is planning a GED graduation ceremony at Red Lake
for those students that have completed their studies through the program.
Presently the only graduation ceremony for GED graduates is held in Bemidji.
Boys & Girls Youth of the year Darion Cobenaise
Our 2010 youth of the year is Darion Cobenaise of Red Lake. Darions parents are
Kim Cook and Micheal Cobenaise, and he currently lives with his grandparents
Fabian, and Missy Cook of Red Lake.
When Darion first came to the club as a youth worker through New beginnings he
was very shy, and pretty much kept to himself, and hung around in the Gym playing
basketball.
Over time Darions confidence has grown, and he has applied himself at the club
even though he is no longer paid to do so. He is now a junior staff member.
His volunteering at the club, and helping out younger kids has been recognized by
all staff who have unanimously selected Darion as youth of the year.
Darion is a junior at Red Lake H.S where he maintains a 3.0 grade average, and
plays on the Red Lake Warriors basketball team.
In May, Darion will represent the Red Lake Nation Boys & Girls club at the annual
Minnesota youth of the year gathering in St. Cloud where he is nominated also as
a State youth of the year candidate.
We wish you well Darion. Good luck, and to you we offer a big HO-WAH!!
Hospital Expansion
Recently the Red Lake hospital celebrated the grand opening of a new 18,500
square addition to our public health facility. The contractor selected was Red Lake
builders. The two story addition will provide for dental, optometry and medical
records space.
The lower level that is scheduled in phase two of the project will contain business
offices, biomedical, engineering, conference rooms, restrooms and a elevator.
Most of the construction was completed by December of 2010 at a cost of 7
million dollars.
The expansion will better serve patients, and cut waiting times. Additional staff
including two Dentists, two nurse practitioners, one physical therapist, and a
pharmacist has been hired to meet the needs of additional services provided.
The Dental clinic that now has 11 dental bays has already increased services to
band members by 23% and now is able to provide same day appointments.
Public Health Emergency
In January the Red Lake, White Earth, and Leech Lake Ojibwe Nations convened
a meeting at White earth to discuss economic development, gaming, Minnesota
state politics, tribal –state tax agreements, and social issues that all three of
Minnesota’s largest tribes have in common.
One issue that is negatively impacting all three tribes is prescription drug abuse.
Tribes nationwide have taken action to address drugs, guns, gangs, drug
trafficking, and the illegal use of hard drugs such as crack cocaine,
methamphetamine, and heroin.
But continuous challenges present themselves to tribes as one drug is
suppressed, another moves to the forefront to take its place as the drug of choice.
Such is the case here at Red Lake with Prescription drug abuse. Shortly after our
meeting at White earth the White earth Nation declared a public health emergency
in response to what they feel is an epidemic that is plaguing Indian communities.
Today as Tribal Chairman of the Red Lake Band of Chippewa, I am officially
declaring a public health emergency here at Red Lake.
I am also directing all tribal agencies and enterprises to take whatever action
necessary to curb the scourge of prescription drug abuse within our communities,
our workplaces, Businesses, and throughout our tribe as a whole.
We cannot afford another life lost, or another broken family because of addictions.
Prescription Drug Statistics
I would like to share just a couple statistics made available by Gary Waubansee of
IHS and Oren Beaulieu at the Red Lake Hospital.
In just 2007 alone, in America 38, 371 people died of drug induced causes.
In 2009 there were more than a million emergency room visits due to the misuse of
pharmaceuticals
That is nearly double the number from 2004
From 1998 to 2008 a ten year period, there was a 400 percent jump in the number
of people seeking treatment for addiction to painkillers.
Probably most alarming is that in many states, more people are dying from
prescription drug abuse than from car accidents.
We are no exception to the national trend here at Red Lake.
I have been notified by the Indian Health service, Comprehensive Health services,
Public safety, and the Tribal executive Director that oversees all tribal programs
that a comprehensive analysis of the situation will be initiated, and action plans will
be presented to Band leadership in the near future.
I would like to commend Chairwomen Vizenor and the White earth tribal Council
for the stance they have taken on this issue, and here at home I applaud the Red
Lake tribal Council, and Chiefs for their leadership, and concern for the Red Lake
people. Miigwetch.
Red Lake Nation Propane
Red Lake Nation propane was established in 2009, and I am proud to report that
we finally have our own propane company and the company is off to a great start.
Red Lake Nation Propane opened for business on Memorial weekend. We are
extremely excited about having our own propane company.
The company has been working through the bugs in the first few months, and has
made some mistakes but as things go along customer service is getting better,
One of the goals in the first year of operation was to install 200 propane tanks.
Red lake nation propane has exceeded that goal and has installed 263 residential
tanks and 43 tribal commercial tanks for a total of 306 tribal customers switched
over.
This Project has created four fulltime jobs, and is meeting the needs of band
members.
Our company has its own delivery trucks, tanks, and the capability to service all
areas of the reservation, and surrounding communities.
Red Lake Nation fuels have an open door policy, and is willing to work through any
issues with customers. The companies’ top priorities are customer safety, and
maintaining high standards of service.
Red Lake Nation fuels also plans to conduct a series of district meetings to report
on the business and to meet face to face with customers regarding consumer
responsibilities.
Other Minnesota tribes are inquiring about the business, and how to either start
their own propane businesses or potentially become customers of Red Lake
Nation Propane.
C Stores/Fish Markets
Last year the Band reported that feasibility studies were underway on two
convenience stores with one location on the south boundary of the reservation, and
one at the junction of highway 59 just west of 7 clans Thief River.
The studies indicated that the Thief River convenience store was not a viable
business opportunity so the band decided to concentrate on the store adjacent to
the new Red Lake Casino.
The stores soft opening, and ribbon cutting ceremony took place on February 18,
2011, and Red Lake Nation Fuels is now open for business.
The grand opening is scheduled for Next month at a date yet to be determined.
What is unique about this enterprise is that it also contains a fresh fish market
showcasing the famous Red Lake Walleye, and Red lake Nation Foods products
such as jellies, jams, and wild rice.
In its first weekend Red Lake nation fuels sold out all gas, and fish inventory during
the I-200 snowmobile races. Customers from throughout the area relished the
opportunity to enjoy the world’s best walleye fillet.
The convenience store has created 12 new fulltime jobs on the reservation, and
complements the new Casino/hotel/event center by offering gaming promotions
with gas, and other product purchases.
Currently a new strategic marketing, branding and business plan is being
developed by the Red Lake Fisheries, and Blue Earth Consulting in order to draw
more customers to the fisheries, and the Convenience store fish market.
The Red Lake Urban Offices
In 2010 Red Lake opened the Red Lake urban embassy in Minneapolis on 29th
and Bloomington in south Mpls. This year the Duluth Urban office will relocate from
west Duluth into the heart of the city to make accessibility easier to band members.
Jessica Rock is the Urban Liaison at the Mpls office along with Roberta Boyd
Secretary, and Johnny Smith the elder coordinator.
Some highlights include both communities conducting very successful urban
picnics, holiday celebrations, and elder activities programs.
Recently a sweetheart dance was hosted by the urban office in Mpls where several
old flames were re-ignited.
In the city of Mpls the Urban embassy is very active in the Indian community, and
does a fine job representing the Red Lake Nation in everything that they do.
The Minneapolis office is working with our planning Department and the City of
Mpls to explore the acquisition of retail space in the city for a potential fish market
for the Famous Red Lake Walleye.
Red Lake has also established a presence in the new Native American corridor
that was established in south Mpls on Franklin Avenue in Minneapolis in 2010.
Working with other tribes and the city of Minneapolis the urban looks to play an
active role in the development of this section of the city that will showcase
Minnesota tribe’s heritage, history, and business presence.
Michaela Richey is the new Duluth urban Liaison with Adelma Adams is her
assistant along with Julie Johnson, and Cheryl strong who coordinates arts and
culture.
Of course there are many more people who roll up their sleeves and are actively
involved with our urban offices. Miigwetch to all the volunteers, and community
members that pitch in at these events.
I see there is a large contingent of Red Lake nation members from both
Minneapolis, and Duluth that have made the trip back home to share in the day.
Boozhoo, and thanks for making it home to share the day with us.
Cultural Activity/Roundhouse
The Little rock community round house has been open for cultural, and community
activities, and has been well received in the community. Elders Frank Dickenson,
and Melvin Jones have been conducting traditional teachings, ojibwe language,
and storytelling. Also, the Chemical health and community recreation programs
have been utilizing the roundhouse for feasts, drum, and dance, arts and crafts,
and moccasin game. These cultural activities are open to anyone regardless of
district.
I would like to thank the Little Rock community for the part they are playing in
keeping our traditions, and Ojibwe heritage alive.
Sandy River Bridge
The sandy river bridge project is nearly complete. Finishing touches will be
completed this spring. The bridge was expanded 8 feet on each side, and the
approach to the bridge was straightened. Also, a parking area will be included that
will prevent unsafe parking on the roadsides.
Elders Summit
This spring the Red Lake nation will host the 1st annual elder’s summit at RedLake.
The tentative date is March 31st and April 1st at the Red Lake hotel/convention
center.
Next week the Chairman’s staff will be meeting with elder coordinators to plan two
days events and activities for elders such as entertainment, an elder talent show,
and guest speakers. Contact Thelma May at the tribal council for additional
information.
We look forward to having our tribal elders coming together along with our friends,
and guests at this year’s summit.
New Initiatives.
The Red Lake Tribal Council recently met with the White Earth and Leech Lake
bands to discuss home manufacturing, and housing needs. A topic of discussion
was the home manufacturing plant in Redby. Secretary Cook, and Economic
Development are exploring all available options of getting the plant up and running
again.
The Council traveled to Shakopee to discuss home buying, and possible joint
venture opportunities for Northern Minnesota Tribes.
Tribal College/Government Center
At a recent retreat hosted by the Red Lake Nation College on the fond du Lac
reservation, DSGW architects of Duluth discussed preliminary plans to build a new
Tribal College/Government center campus near the existing pow wow grounds.
The complex will include a brand new pow wow grounds, Library, cafeteria’s,
Tribal Council offices, and college campus. Imaging if you will, students studying,
and band members eating lunch as they overlook the beautiful Red Lake.
At a later time the Red Lake Nation College and DSGW will take these
discussions to the communities for input on just how a campus should look, and
how to proceed.
Conclusion
In Summary, overall the Red Lake nation is doing well. Our Nation is strong, and
our tribe is growing. Businesses are being reviewed to make them better, and
more profitable. Gaming is doing well, and the Red Lake Bands finances are
sound. Our urban offices are active, and productive. A public Health emergency
has been declared to address prescription drug abuse, and a recent education
summit has prioritized education reform and improvement on all levels here at Red
Lake
Migwetch for allowing me this time today to present the state of the Red Lake
Nation.
Giiga waabaamin Miinawaa Weweni Sago na Anishinaabedug.
Greetings to you to all. My name is Floyd Jourdain Jr.
I am the Tribal Chairman of the Red Lake Band of Chippewa Indians.
It is my honor, and privilege to present to you on behalf of the entire Tribal Council,
and seven Hereditary Chiefs, the annual State of the Band address and report to
the people.
Acknowledgements
I will start first by thanking our spiritual elder Eugene Stillday for rendering this
morning’s invocation. The spiritual guidance that you offer is invaluable, and we
greatly appreciate the direction that you give us.
Before every monthly Tribal Council mtg, with the assistance of our Hereditary
Chiefs, Miskwanakwad renders our morning invocation, and then further, offers
words of wisdom to our leaders in keeping with tradition of the ojibwe of the Red
Lake reservation.
It is with our ancestors, elders, and predecessors in mind that we proceed from
that point conducting tribal affairs and doing the work necessary for the betterment
of the Red Lake nation.
Thank you Veterans, for honoring us with your presence here today, and to all
veterans, and their families. Thank you for your service.
Miigwetch, Red Lake singers, and to all the royalty that represent our Red Lake
nation so well throughout Indian country.
I would like to thank my wife Gina, my sons, my parents, relatives, and friends for
their support, and also to my Staff for everything they do and for a superb job in
organizing today’s event.
At this time I will introduce the Tribal Council , Treasurer Darryl Seki, Secretary
Donald Cook, Red Lake District Representatives, Roman Ducker Stately, and
Donald May Jr., Little Rock Representatives Richard Barrett, and Billy Greene
Ponemah Representatives Glenda Martin, and Gary Nelson, Redby District
Representatives Julius Toady Thunder and Alan Pemberton, Hereditary Chiefs
George King, John Sumner, Greetings Spears, Gerald Spears, Alexander
Gillespie, James Loud, Sam Smith.
I would like for the entire Tribal Council, and Chiefs to please stand. Ladies and
gentleman please join me in a round of applause for these fine men, and women.
Thank you, Council for you hard work, and for the commitment, and sacrifice that
you put forth for the Red Lake red lake nation as a whole and our entire band
membership.
Tribal Programs
I would like to thank the Tribal programs that are here with us today. As a tribal
Council we appreciate what you do for our citizens. Your jobs are important ones,
and we commend you on your dedication.
I encourage all who are in attendance here today to take a look around at the
services that our tribe has to offer. Our tribal programs continue to do a fine job.
And for this we thank you. Migwetch.
State of the Nation
I am here to report today that overall our tribe is doing well. Our businesses are
strong, and the ones that have struggled are being improved so that they will be
profitable in the future.
We have accomplished much over the past year, and have seen much progress.
But this past year has also been a hard one as many of our relatives, and friends
passed into the spirit world. We honor their memory today.
But with each passing there is new life and our tribe continues to grow. Secretary
Cook and the tribal enrollment committee recently reported at the January tribal
council meeting that to date, our band membership totals 10,586 members and
continues to grow every year.
Tribal Finances
The Red Lake band of Chippewa Indians is in sound financial condition. Our
annual audits are on time, and the permanent fund that suffered losses in the stock
market crash a couple years ago has rebounded nicely.
The advice the band received from our investment managers back then was to
stay the course.
Treasurer Seki is pleased to report to you today that the permanent fund account
balance that at one time had dwindled to around 47 million has rebounded to
$64,308,266.
Had the tribe not drawn down a portion from the allowable 6% interest per the
settlement terms for tribal distribution, reforestation, and other tribal unmet needs
the amount would now exceed 75 million plus interest.
The tribal Council however, decided that a distribution to all band members of 200
dollars at Christmas time would be a good use of the settlement money at a time
when band members of all ages can really use it.
Rainy Day Fund
In 2010 the Red Lake tribal Council established a rainy day fund to establish
reserves for unforeseen circumstances, and other tribal needs. It is good practice
to always have a reserve available should some sort of financial difficulty befall the
tribe, or an unexpected unmet emergency need arise. The rainy day fund now
totals nearly a million dollars.
I would like to thank Treasurer Seki and his staff on a job well done. There is
additional information at the Treasurers Booth located in the arena here today.
Diversification fund.
In 2010 the Red Lake gaming board established a new diversification fund for
small business loans, and business related investments. The Red Lake
Department of Economic development, The Minnesota Indian economic
development fund, and the Red Lake nation college are all working together to
provide technical assistance to band members in business plan writing, and
business administration training which is a requirement of the loan program. So far
the diversification fund has accumulated over 300.000 dollars.
Interested parties can contact Samuel Strong at Economic Development and
Planning
Blue Earth Consulting
In 2011 the band will continue to prioritize governmental reform, and business
restructuring in order to strengthen leadership, and bring an increased level of
success to Tribal businesses.
In 2010 the Band hired Blue earth consulting, a company that specializes in
strategic business analysis and planning to assist the tribe in conducting a
comprehensive analysis of all tribal businesses to determine how they can be
more productive, profitable, accountable, and professional.
Blue Earth consulting is currently conducting a series of businesses enterprise
reviews, and is working with the Department of economic development to advise
the tribal Council on how to make improvements.
Better business planning and management will lead to increased success which
ultimately means putting more band members to work as businesses reach new
levels of success.
This is the goal of the Tribal Council. This means implementing new policies,
procedures, accounting systems, and management plans that will enable the band
to adopt a uniform system that will help manage business more effectively.
The Red Lake fisheries, Retail center, Red Lake builders, Forest products, and
the new convenience store are all enterprises that are working with Blue Earth to
improve upon existing business capabilities.
Juvenile Justice Center
In 2010 The Red Lake band settled a 2.3 million dollar lawsuit with the bureau of
Indian affairs for their unwillingness to fully fund the operating cost of the juvenile
detention facility located behind the existing detention center.
Although the band did reached settlement, the government has still not agreed to
fund ongoing operating costs. All the awarded money will do is keep the lights,
heat, and facilities management going until the tribe can secure funding for staff,
and programming. Since 2005 the band has utilized moneys from other sources to
keep the facility from falling to waste.
The option for utilizing the facility for other youth related services such as
treatment, cultural activity, or education have not been ruled out at this point.
The original juvenile justice center concept incorporated education, culture, youth
advocacy, and community support into a detention setting. Simply locking kids up
has little affect in helping Native youth avoid the pitfalls and tragedy associated
with drugs, guns, gangs, alcohol, and suicide.
The building has lain dormant since 2005 when it was completed. During the
Clinton administration the Department of Justice and the BIA agreed to build, and
fund operation of detention facilities in Indian Country. The Justice Department
came through on its part, but the BIA to this day refuses to provide the funding for
the youth of the Red Lake reservation.
Ponemah Multi-Use Community Center
The Ponemah community facility is scheduled to open this year. The building is
designed to maximize energy efficiency by utilizing solar technology, water heated
panels, and geothermal heat pumps that use the earth to heat, and cool the
building.
Strategically placed windows will maximize daylight interior lighting which results in
energy efficiency. This “green” approach to construction represents a new era of
building that appears to be the wave of the future.
With a full gymnasium, library, computer room, kitchen, activities room, and
kitchen, the Center will meet the needs of community members of all ages. It will
also house the Ponemah Boys & Girls Club.
This is a project long overdue. Congratulations to the Ponemah community.
Special thanks goes out to the Ponemah Representatives Martin, Nelson, the
Ponemah community board, and the Community Coordinator Delwyn Holthusen
along with Sam Strong and his staff at Tribal Planning,
Also, DSGW Architects, Red Lake builders, the Red Lake Tribal Council, HUD,
the Shakopee Mdewankanton Souix community, and Minnesota State Senators
Al Franken, Amy Klobuchar, and Congressman Colin Peterson.
Also, Gitchi migwetch to Holly Cook McCarro for her consultation work on the
project in Washington D.C.
Little Rock/Redby Community Centers
The Red Lake band is currently in the planning process for the construction of two
new community centers in both Littlerock, and Redby. Potential funding options
include using tax increment financing, HUD grants, and grants made available
through the Shakopee Mdewankanton Sioux community. Preliminary estimates
range from 2.5 million to 3.2 million per facility.
If all goes according to preliminary plans the new community centers will be
completed by January of 2013.
Red Lake 7 clan’s Casino/Event Center
The new 7 clans Red Lake Casino and event center opened its doors in
December. Complete with a 40 room hotel, event center, and state of the art
gaming area. The facility has proven to be quite popular with guests from
surrounding areas, and local band members. Several national entertainment acts
have performed at the event center, and we have received reports that Chubby
Checker and Elvis were both spotted on the Rez in 2010.
.
Solid Waste Collection Sites.
New solid waste construction sites will be constructed in all districts this year.
Funding was delayed for a bit, and as cold weather set in the project was put off
until this spring .This will be a huge improvement in our waste disposal efforts. It
will also create additional jobs
The solid waste/transfer facility on 89 will also includes two new garbage trucks.
A reservation wide community clean up day is scheduled for April of this year.
Red Lake Gaming
Red Lake Gaming
In 2010 Red Lake gaming set its sites high, and was able to accomplish another
great year. For the 6th consecutive year Red Lake gaming set record revenues,
and received the “top casino award” from the Minnepolis/St Paul Journal.
Another crowning achievement by Red Lake gaming was partnering with Ingenus
management a company specializing in Indian casino management to secure a 10
year management contract for the new Spirit sands casino on the White Swan first
nations reserve in Manitoba. This gaming complex will feature 500 slots/ hotel, and
convention center, and will create 300 new jobs for 64 First nations in Manitoba
who are all co owners of the gaming operation.
In 1999 the National congress of American Indians and the First Nations of
Canada passed a resolution calling for nation to nation commerce, and trade
between Indigenous people. Once again the Red Lake Band of Chippewa Indians
as an innovator has set precedent by establishing international trade, and
commerce with Canadian first nations, and rejecting the notion that borders can
keep indigenous peoples from reconnecting as friend’s relatives, and business
partners like we have for centuries.
Red Lake has no money invested in the project, and our role will be to develop,
construct, and manage for a ten year period the facility in Manitoba at a cost of
nothing to the band. Over the course of 10 years the Red Lake Band will receive a
fee of 13 million dollars to fulfill these contract obligations.
Of course Red Lake gaming carefully assessed all aspects of the proposal before
presenting to the tribal leadership at Red Lake to assure that such facilities would
not compete directly with our Warrorad, and Thief River properties which is not the
case.
Red Lake Gaming is one of our main economic drivers for the reservation, and
continues to outperform the national trend that has seen an overall decline in
gaming revenues.
We now have 933 employees at our 3 properties.
Additional 2010 highlights include.
55.6 million in revenues up 20% over 46.6million in 2009
A net income of 9.2 million compared to 8.2 million in 2009
An increase of 1 million dollars.
Implemented phaze2 of a new training development program
Wages, taxes, health insurance, and employee benefits in 2010 totaled 23 million
Gaming Human resources reports
81% Red Lake band members employed at Red Lake Casino
62% Red Lake band members employed at Thief River Falls
16% Red Lake band members employed at Warroad Casino
Housing Authority
New construction completed this past year include
*Twenty units in the walking shield village using American recovery, and
Reinvestment Act funds through HUD.
*Three units were constructed by Northwest Technical College, and the Leech
Lake tribal college.These units will be located in the new Ponemah rental area.
*Three units were constructed by the military, and will also be located in the
Ponemah rental area.
*The Red Lake housing finance corporation entered into 1 new home loan with
homebuyer, and 18 loans for rehabilitation of existing units.
*Rental assistance and security deposits were provided to 62 families in Beltrami
County outside the reservation.
*Down payment assistance was provided to 2 families in Beltrami County off
reservation.
* Thirty one furnaces were replaced in units under housing authority management.
* Red Lake gaming allocated funds for the installation of 18 new septic systems for
privately owned homes.
Red Lake housing authority also installed 15 new septic systems on units under
housing authority management.
Public Safety Highlights
The 5th annual drug and gang summit was conducted earlier this month, and was
well attended.
The event was sponsored by Chemical Health with over 4oo participants attending.
Public safety conducted education sessions to area professionals on gangs,
drugs, and crime.
Public safety has assigned officers to the Ponemah community to be stationed at
the new police substation.
Two officers graduated from Artesia Police Academy, and have been hired by
public safety.
Congratulations to Stephen Dow, and Robert Lynch. Both Enrolled Red Lake
Band members who completed their training in New Mexico this winter.
Public safety has incorporated pharmaceutical drug training into investigations,
and curriculums.
New computer systems have been incorporated into police cars that can map and
pinpoint locations of emergency calls and locations.
Conservation officers continue to sponsor, and support reservation youth activities
such as take a kid fishing events and ATV safety training.
Increased the number of gang related arrests, and identification of gang members
coming to and from the reservation.
Saw a decrease in child abuse cases by 41% in 2010
Increased drug investigations by 38% in 2010 compared to 2009
3 new federal drug investigations opened in 2010
Seized several hundred illegal pharmecutical drugs in 2010.
Continue to seize other drugs such as crack cocaine when found on the
reservation.
20 illegal, or stolen weapons seized by the Red Lake Police and ATF.
Received 811,000 dollars in grant funding in 2010 with 300 thousand being
baseline increase funding from the BIA.
Public safety reported significant declines in assaults, vandalism, disorderly
conduct, weapons violations, and drug possession charges.
Conservation Dept
The conservation Dept consists of 5 officers. They enforce tribal fish, and game
laws.
Some conservation community activities included
Boys& girls club mentoring program.
ATV safety training for reservation youth.
Hunting safety, and firearm safety program, and certificates for kids.
Take a kid fishing events.
Conservation responded to 492 wild and domestic animal complaints last year.
New Beginnings
There are many positive changes happening ay New Beginnings. Too numerous
to mention here, must probably most notable is the establishment and pursuit of a
TANF program that will allow the Red Lake band to access direct funding through
the federal government, and to transition out of the MFIP model.
This will result in increased funding for the tribe, and more opportunities for band
members that utilize services through new Beginnings.
The educational training center at Redby over the years has gradually turned more
to social service type programming. The original intent was to provide training and
skills to band members so that they could compete in the workforce.
The goal of New beginnings is to strengthen those aspects of the program.
Working with the Red Lake Nation College, Northwest technical college, BSU, and
the Red Lake schools, New Beginnings strives to get back to that original mission
and support the educational goals of Red lake band members.
Enrollment in the GED program is up, and the childcare program at new
beginnings has seen increases in childcare participation.
This year New Beginnings is planning a GED graduation ceremony at Red Lake
for those students that have completed their studies through the program.
Presently the only graduation ceremony for GED graduates is held in Bemidji.
Boys & Girls Youth of the year Darion Cobenaise
Our 2010 youth of the year is Darion Cobenaise of Red Lake. Darions parents are
Kim Cook and Micheal Cobenaise, and he currently lives with his grandparents
Fabian, and Missy Cook of Red Lake.
When Darion first came to the club as a youth worker through New beginnings he
was very shy, and pretty much kept to himself, and hung around in the Gym playing
basketball.
Over time Darions confidence has grown, and he has applied himself at the club
even though he is no longer paid to do so. He is now a junior staff member.
His volunteering at the club, and helping out younger kids has been recognized by
all staff who have unanimously selected Darion as youth of the year.
Darion is a junior at Red Lake H.S where he maintains a 3.0 grade average, and
plays on the Red Lake Warriors basketball team.
In May, Darion will represent the Red Lake Nation Boys & Girls club at the annual
Minnesota youth of the year gathering in St. Cloud where he is nominated also as
a State youth of the year candidate.
We wish you well Darion. Good luck, and to you we offer a big HO-WAH!!
Hospital Expansion
Recently the Red Lake hospital celebrated the grand opening of a new 18,500
square addition to our public health facility. The contractor selected was Red Lake
builders. The two story addition will provide for dental, optometry and medical
records space.
The lower level that is scheduled in phase two of the project will contain business
offices, biomedical, engineering, conference rooms, restrooms and a elevator.
Most of the construction was completed by December of 2010 at a cost of 7
million dollars.
The expansion will better serve patients, and cut waiting times. Additional staff
including two Dentists, two nurse practitioners, one physical therapist, and a
pharmacist has been hired to meet the needs of additional services provided.
The Dental clinic that now has 11 dental bays has already increased services to
band members by 23% and now is able to provide same day appointments.
Public Health Emergency
In January the Red Lake, White Earth, and Leech Lake Ojibwe Nations convened
a meeting at White earth to discuss economic development, gaming, Minnesota
state politics, tribal –state tax agreements, and social issues that all three of
Minnesota’s largest tribes have in common.
One issue that is negatively impacting all three tribes is prescription drug abuse.
Tribes nationwide have taken action to address drugs, guns, gangs, drug
trafficking, and the illegal use of hard drugs such as crack cocaine,
methamphetamine, and heroin.
But continuous challenges present themselves to tribes as one drug is
suppressed, another moves to the forefront to take its place as the drug of choice.
Such is the case here at Red Lake with Prescription drug abuse. Shortly after our
meeting at White earth the White earth Nation declared a public health emergency
in response to what they feel is an epidemic that is plaguing Indian communities.
Today as Tribal Chairman of the Red Lake Band of Chippewa, I am officially
declaring a public health emergency here at Red Lake.
I am also directing all tribal agencies and enterprises to take whatever action
necessary to curb the scourge of prescription drug abuse within our communities,
our workplaces, Businesses, and throughout our tribe as a whole.
We cannot afford another life lost, or another broken family because of addictions.
Prescription Drug Statistics
I would like to share just a couple statistics made available by Gary Waubansee of
IHS and Oren Beaulieu at the Red Lake Hospital.
In just 2007 alone, in America 38, 371 people died of drug induced causes.
In 2009 there were more than a million emergency room visits due to the misuse of
pharmaceuticals
That is nearly double the number from 2004
From 1998 to 2008 a ten year period, there was a 400 percent jump in the number
of people seeking treatment for addiction to painkillers.
Probably most alarming is that in many states, more people are dying from
prescription drug abuse than from car accidents.
We are no exception to the national trend here at Red Lake.
I have been notified by the Indian Health service, Comprehensive Health services,
Public safety, and the Tribal executive Director that oversees all tribal programs
that a comprehensive analysis of the situation will be initiated, and action plans will
be presented to Band leadership in the near future.
I would like to commend Chairwomen Vizenor and the White earth tribal Council
for the stance they have taken on this issue, and here at home I applaud the Red
Lake tribal Council, and Chiefs for their leadership, and concern for the Red Lake
people. Miigwetch.
Red Lake Nation Propane
Red Lake Nation propane was established in 2009, and I am proud to report that
we finally have our own propane company and the company is off to a great start.
Red Lake Nation Propane opened for business on Memorial weekend. We are
extremely excited about having our own propane company.
The company has been working through the bugs in the first few months, and has
made some mistakes but as things go along customer service is getting better,
One of the goals in the first year of operation was to install 200 propane tanks.
Red lake nation propane has exceeded that goal and has installed 263 residential
tanks and 43 tribal commercial tanks for a total of 306 tribal customers switched
over.
This Project has created four fulltime jobs, and is meeting the needs of band
members.
Our company has its own delivery trucks, tanks, and the capability to service all
areas of the reservation, and surrounding communities.
Red Lake Nation fuels have an open door policy, and is willing to work through any
issues with customers. The companies’ top priorities are customer safety, and
maintaining high standards of service.
Red Lake Nation fuels also plans to conduct a series of district meetings to report
on the business and to meet face to face with customers regarding consumer
responsibilities.
Other Minnesota tribes are inquiring about the business, and how to either start
their own propane businesses or potentially become customers of Red Lake
Nation Propane.
C Stores/Fish Markets
Last year the Band reported that feasibility studies were underway on two
convenience stores with one location on the south boundary of the reservation, and
one at the junction of highway 59 just west of 7 clans Thief River.
The studies indicated that the Thief River convenience store was not a viable
business opportunity so the band decided to concentrate on the store adjacent to
the new Red Lake Casino.
The stores soft opening, and ribbon cutting ceremony took place on February 18,
2011, and Red Lake Nation Fuels is now open for business.
The grand opening is scheduled for Next month at a date yet to be determined.
What is unique about this enterprise is that it also contains a fresh fish market
showcasing the famous Red Lake Walleye, and Red lake Nation Foods products
such as jellies, jams, and wild rice.
In its first weekend Red Lake nation fuels sold out all gas, and fish inventory during
the I-200 snowmobile races. Customers from throughout the area relished the
opportunity to enjoy the world’s best walleye fillet.
The convenience store has created 12 new fulltime jobs on the reservation, and
complements the new Casino/hotel/event center by offering gaming promotions
with gas, and other product purchases.
Currently a new strategic marketing, branding and business plan is being
developed by the Red Lake Fisheries, and Blue Earth Consulting in order to draw
more customers to the fisheries, and the Convenience store fish market.
The Red Lake Urban Offices
In 2010 Red Lake opened the Red Lake urban embassy in Minneapolis on 29th
and Bloomington in south Mpls. This year the Duluth Urban office will relocate from
west Duluth into the heart of the city to make accessibility easier to band members.
Jessica Rock is the Urban Liaison at the Mpls office along with Roberta Boyd
Secretary, and Johnny Smith the elder coordinator.
Some highlights include both communities conducting very successful urban
picnics, holiday celebrations, and elder activities programs.
Recently a sweetheart dance was hosted by the urban office in Mpls where several
old flames were re-ignited.
In the city of Mpls the Urban embassy is very active in the Indian community, and
does a fine job representing the Red Lake Nation in everything that they do.
The Minneapolis office is working with our planning Department and the City of
Mpls to explore the acquisition of retail space in the city for a potential fish market
for the Famous Red Lake Walleye.
Red Lake has also established a presence in the new Native American corridor
that was established in south Mpls on Franklin Avenue in Minneapolis in 2010.
Working with other tribes and the city of Minneapolis the urban looks to play an
active role in the development of this section of the city that will showcase
Minnesota tribe’s heritage, history, and business presence.
Michaela Richey is the new Duluth urban Liaison with Adelma Adams is her
assistant along with Julie Johnson, and Cheryl strong who coordinates arts and
culture.
Of course there are many more people who roll up their sleeves and are actively
involved with our urban offices. Miigwetch to all the volunteers, and community
members that pitch in at these events.
I see there is a large contingent of Red Lake nation members from both
Minneapolis, and Duluth that have made the trip back home to share in the day.
Boozhoo, and thanks for making it home to share the day with us.
Cultural Activity/Roundhouse
The Little rock community round house has been open for cultural, and community
activities, and has been well received in the community. Elders Frank Dickenson,
and Melvin Jones have been conducting traditional teachings, ojibwe language,
and storytelling. Also, the Chemical health and community recreation programs
have been utilizing the roundhouse for feasts, drum, and dance, arts and crafts,
and moccasin game. These cultural activities are open to anyone regardless of
district.
I would like to thank the Little Rock community for the part they are playing in
keeping our traditions, and Ojibwe heritage alive.
Sandy River Bridge
The sandy river bridge project is nearly complete. Finishing touches will be
completed this spring. The bridge was expanded 8 feet on each side, and the
approach to the bridge was straightened. Also, a parking area will be included that
will prevent unsafe parking on the roadsides.
Elders Summit
This spring the Red Lake nation will host the 1st annual elder’s summit at RedLake.
The tentative date is March 31st and April 1st at the Red Lake hotel/convention
center.
Next week the Chairman’s staff will be meeting with elder coordinators to plan two
days events and activities for elders such as entertainment, an elder talent show,
and guest speakers. Contact Thelma May at the tribal council for additional
information.
We look forward to having our tribal elders coming together along with our friends,
and guests at this year’s summit.
New Initiatives.
The Red Lake Tribal Council recently met with the White Earth and Leech Lake
bands to discuss home manufacturing, and housing needs. A topic of discussion
was the home manufacturing plant in Redby. Secretary Cook, and Economic
Development are exploring all available options of getting the plant up and running
again.
The Council traveled to Shakopee to discuss home buying, and possible joint
venture opportunities for Northern Minnesota Tribes.
Tribal College/Government Center
At a recent retreat hosted by the Red Lake Nation College on the fond du Lac
reservation, DSGW architects of Duluth discussed preliminary plans to build a new
Tribal College/Government center campus near the existing pow wow grounds.
The complex will include a brand new pow wow grounds, Library, cafeteria’s,
Tribal Council offices, and college campus. Imaging if you will, students studying,
and band members eating lunch as they overlook the beautiful Red Lake.
At a later time the Red Lake Nation College and DSGW will take these
discussions to the communities for input on just how a campus should look, and
how to proceed.
Conclusion
In Summary, overall the Red Lake nation is doing well. Our Nation is strong, and
our tribe is growing. Businesses are being reviewed to make them better, and
more profitable. Gaming is doing well, and the Red Lake Bands finances are
sound. Our urban offices are active, and productive. A public Health emergency
has been declared to address prescription drug abuse, and a recent education
summit has prioritized education reform and improvement on all levels here at Red
Lake
Migwetch for allowing me this time today to present the state of the Red Lake
Nation.
Giiga waabaamin Miinawaa Weweni Sago na Anishinaabedug.
