Aabitoose News Gathering

Save the date! The 2012 Leech Lake Tribal College Nimi'idim (Powwow) happens Saturday, March 31, in the Cass Lake-Bena High School gymnasium. All are welcome!

Noongom @ LLTC:

• LLTC Community and Continuing Education offers AARP tax return preparation services each Aabitoose from now until Tax Day from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. in Mitigominzh Wigamig's Conference Room 102.
• A celebration of the life of Coretta Scott King will be presented by LLTC Vice President Dr. Beverly Rodgers at 12 noon in the Benny Tonce Memorial Drum Room 204.
• LLTC alumnus Charles Dolson will give an inspirational talk at 1:30 p.m. in the Benny Tonce Memorial Drum Room 204.
• The LLTC Parents Study Group meets from 4-6 p.m. in the Nando-Gikenjige Wigamig Learning Center.

Bemidji resident and Leech Lake citizen Nicole Beaulieu responds to White Earth Chair Dr. Erma Vizenor's recent letter regarding tribal gaming and how gaming has not been an all-encompassing solution for all of the socio-economic challenges faced by tribal nations: http://www.bemidjipioneer.com/event/article/id/100037981/

University of Minnesota Duluth Professor Tadd Johnson will speak at Central Lakes College's Brainerd campus on April 9: http://clcnewsblog.blogspot.com/2012/03/american-indian-rights-program.html

Talented amateur photographer Ivy Vainio's work will be showcased at the University of Wisconsin Superior's Jim Dan Hill Library through mid-May and her area powwow photography will be featured in the upcoming photography book, Capture Minnesota: http://www.uwsuper.edu/news/ivy-vainios-work-to-be-published-with-the-best-minnesota-photos-ever-_article1394339

Red Lake elder Myron Louis Smith is remembered in this Bemidji Pioneer obituary: http://www.bemidjipioneer.com/event/obituary/id/100037964/

The University of Minnesota's Ojibwe People's Dictionary gets a rave editorial review from MN Daily: http://www.mndaily.com/2012/03/21/celebrating-mn%E2%80%99s-native-culture
The Ojibwe People's Dictionary: http://ojibwe.lib.umn.edu

More on the controversial proposed hunting and trapping season for ma'iinganag (wolves) in Wisconsin: http://www.nhpr.org/post/thrown-wolves

A Penokee Hills Full Moon Sleepover and Community Picnic is being planned for April 6-7 and will feature Bad River Chair Mike Wiggins, Jr.: http://occupywi.org/2012/03/penokee-hills-full-moon-sleepover-community-picnic/

The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources secretary will meet with Lac du Flambeau officials regarding the upcoming treaty-sanctioned harvest of ogaawag (walleyes) and the potential implications for Wisconsin's general open fishing season:

• "DNR Secretary to Meet with Lac du Flambeau Tribe over Fish Spearing Issue" (WHBL) http://whbl.com/news/articles/2012/mar/20/dnr-secretary-to-meet-with-lac-du-flambeau-tribe-over-fish-spearing-issue/
• "DNR Secretary to Meet with Tribe on Spearing" (Milwaukee Journal Sentinel) http://www.jsonline.com/blogs/news/143540536.html
• "Walleye Bag Limits Down on LdF Fished Lakes" (NBC WJFW) http://www.wjfw.com/stories.html?sku=20120319181037

Central Michigan University hosts the 23rd annual Anishinaabe Powwow this weekend: http://www.cm-life.com/2012/03/21/23rd-annual-anishinaabe-pow-wow-this-weekend-at-the-cmu-events-center/

Turtle Mountain Community College is participating in a North Dakota statewide financial aid and college assistance program on March 25: http://www.grandforksherald.com/event/article/id/232582/

An Indian Country Today piece on Anishinaabe elder Dave Courchene, Jr., and his thoughts on prophecies and what they mean for Indigenous people today is reprinted here: http://jhaines6.wordpress.com/2012/03/20/on-prophecies-and-the-new-age-elder-dave-courchene-discusses-the-way-forward-video-thanks-to-mary/

Canada's Juno Award category for Aboriginal Recording of the Year is considered controversial by some and celebrated by others: http://www.ottawacitizen.com/entertainment/controversial+Juno+category/6330877/story.html

The University of Winnipeg's Wii Chiiwaaknak Learning Centre offers free "Let's Speak Ojibwe to Our Kids" classes to families in the Winnipeg area: http://www.chrisd.ca/blog/52313/university-of-winnipeg-ojibwe-language-classes/
Winnipeg Free Press columnist Colleen Simard shares her thoughts on what Facebook means for First Nations: http://www.troymedia.com/blog/2012/03/20/say-goodbye-to-the-digital-divide-in-aboriginal-country/

Curve Lake Nation's teams fared well at the 41st Little Native Hockey League tournament hosted by the Sagamok Anishnawbek: http://www.thepeterboroughexaminer.com/ArticleDisplay.aspx?e=3507155

The Lake Huron Anishinabek Transmission Company has partnered with corporations to construct and operate transmission lines through land governed by the Robinson-Huron Treaty of 1850: http://business.verizon.net/SMBPortalWeb/appmanager/SMBPortal/smb?_nfpb=true&_pageLabel=SMBPortal_page_newsandresources_headlinedetail&newsId=378562&categoryname=Legal&portletTitle=Legal

Ottawa's city arts plan incorporates more input and ideas from and for First Nations: http://ottawa.openfile.ca/ottawa/text/aboriginal-concerns-central-city-arts-plan
Red Rock First Nation Chief Arlene Wawia shares a letter of support with Fort William First Nation regarding an April 1 - June 15 moratorium on harvesting ogaawag (walleyes) from Black Sturgeon River due to the low fish population: http://fwfn.com/2012/03/moratorium-letter-of-support/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=moratorium-letter-of-support

Writer Richard Wagamese (Wabaseemoong Ojibway) shares his thoughts on adapting to rural life after city living in his latest column: http://www.straightgoods.ca/2012/ViewArticle.cfm?Ref=239&Cookies=yes

Tuesday News Gathering

Noongom @ LLTC:

• LLTC hosts a Nutrition Expo from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in Giizhiikaandag Wigamig's Benny Tonce Memorial Drum Room 204. All are welcome!
• The Nimi'idim (Powwow) Committee meets at 1 p.m. in Giizhiikaandag Wigamig's Bibigwan Music Room 216.

Our sympathies and thoughts are with Leech Lake Tribal College assessment director and mathematics instructor Phil Leen and his family as they mourn the death of his father, Robert G. Leen: http://www.bemidjipioneer.com/event/obituary/id/100037923/

Mille Lacs gets a mention in this St. Paul Pioneer Press report on lobbying at Minnesota's state government level: http://www.twincities.com/allheadlines/ci_20206836/minnesota-legislature-more-than-59-million-spent-lobbying

Former Red Lake High School baseball star Gerald Kingbird makes #17 on the Pioneer Press's list of 20 best boys' basketball players in Minnesota state tournament history: http://www.twincities.com/sports/ci_20209511/minnesota-boys-basketball-top-100-20-best-players?source=most_viewed

Red Lake elder Myron Louis Smith is remembered in this Bemidji Pioneer obituary: http://www.bemidjipioneer.com/event/obituary/id/100037916/

Winona LaDuke (White Earth) is one of the female conservationists highlighted in this National Wildlife Federation blog feature: http://blog.nwf.org/2012/03/women-conservationists-always-ahead-of-the-curve/

AT&T Aspire touts its effectiveness in bolstering student success, including through a partnership with the Anishinabe Academy in Minneapolis: http://www.marketwatch.com/story/att-announces-additional-aspire-grants-track-record-of-success-in-minnesota-schools-2012-03-19

Some Wisconsin tribal citizens are concerned about a proposed hunting and trapping season for ma'iinganag (wolves): http://www.ashlandcurrent.com/article/12/03/19/tribes-concerned-about-wisconsin-wolf-hunting

After the tribal nations' ogaawag (walleyes) harvest, Wisconsin's Department of Natural Resources sets the general bag limit at 3 ogaawag per angler: http://www.wjfw.com/stories.html?sku=20120319181037

FREE MUSIC?!?!?!?! This week, Indigenous music culture blog RPM offers a free download of "Drag Your Words Through" by singer-songwriter Nick Sherman (Ojibway): http://rpm.fm/music/download-nick-sherman-drag-your-words-through/

Monday News Gathering

This Week @ LLTC:

• Chef Freddie Bitsoie (Diné) will give a cooking demonstration on the stew being made for Monday Drum and Potluck at 11:30 a.m. in Giizhiikaandag Wigamig's Benny Tonce Memorial Drum Room Kitchen.
• All LLTC students and employees are invited to Monday Drum and Potluck at 12 noon in Giizhiikaandag Wigamig's Benny Tonce Memorial Drum Room 204.
• LLTC Community Education offers a free yoga class noogom (today) at 4 p.m. in Giizhiikaandag Wigamig's Benny Tonce Memorial Drum Room 204.
• LLTC Student Services offers a parent study group each Monday and Aabitoose (Wednesday) from 4-6 p.m. A light meal and on-site childcare will be provided.
• LLTC hosts a Nutrition Expo on Tuesday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. in Giizhiikaandag Wigamig's Benny Tonce Memorial Drum Room 204.
• The Nimi'idim (Powwow) Committee meets Tuesday at 1 p.m. in Giizhiikaandag Wigamig's Bibigwan Room 216.
• LLTC Community and Continuing Education offers AARP tax return preparation services each Aabitoose from now until Tax Day from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. in Mitigominzh Wigamig's Conference Room 102.
• LLTC Vice President Dr. Beverly Rodgers presents a celebration of Coretta Scott King on Aabitoose at 12 noon in Mitigominzh Wigamig's Mooz Room 100. A light lunch will be provided.
• LLTC Student Senate meets Aabitoose at 12 noon in Giizhiikaandag Wigamig's Benny Tonce Memorial Drum Room 204. Cancelled this week due to AIHEC Conference.
• LLTC alumnus Charles Dolson will give an inspiration talk on Aabitoose at 1:30 p.m. in Giizhiikaandag Wigamig's Benny Tonce Memorial Drum Room 204.
• Licensed massage therapist Corina Whiting will be on campus to share stress- and tension-relieving techniques on Thursday; sign up for a 10-minute slot between 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. or 1 p.m. - 1 p.m. in Giizhiikaandag Wigamig's Wellness Center.
• LLTC Student Services offers a "Finding Scholarships" workshop on Thursday at 12 noon in Mitigominzh Wigamig's PC Lab 111.
• The LLTC Wellness Center offers a free t'ai chi chih class on Thursday at 12 noon in Giizhiikaandag Wigamig's Benny Tonce Memorial Drum Room 204.
• A Miikinaa lecture on "Trials and Triumphs Toward Higher Education" by Dr. John Gonzalez is scheduled for Friday at 12 noon in Mitigominzh Wigamig's Mooz Room 100.
• The LLTC Arts and Humanities Department presents a Women in Wellness event featuring Sharyl Whitehawk and Mary Lyons on Friday from 5-7 p.m. in Mitigominzh Wigamig's Mooz Room 100.

The University of Minnesota's new Ojibwe People's Dictionary continues to get much positive press:

• "Homeroom: University of Minnesota Helps Create Online Ojibwe People's Dictionary" (St. Paul Pioneer Press) http://www.twincities.com/localnews/ci_20203744/homeroom-university-minnesota-team-helps-create-online-ojibwe
• "University of Minnesota Launches Online Ojibwe Dictionary" (Duluth News Tribune) http://www.duluthnewstribune.com/event/article/id/225821/

A proposal to allow for the hunting and trapping of ma'iinganag (wolves) finds opposition from a number of Anishinaabeg:

• "Groups Fight over Wolf Hunting" (Columbus Dispatch) http://www.dispatch.com/content/stories/sports/2012/03/18/groups-fight-over-wolf-hunting.html
• "Looming Wolf Hunt Bothers Some American Indians" (Bemidji Pioneer) http://www.bemidjipioneer.com/event/article/id/100037872/

North Shore Good Neighbors hosts a sulfide mining informational session on Aabitoose and featuring Virgil Sohm (Ojibwe): http://www.twoharborsmn.com/event/article/id/23316/

Leech Lake Tribal College art instructor Duane "Dewey" Goodwin and Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College instructor Elizabeth Jaakola are two of the six recipients of the prestigious First Peoples Fund's 2012 Jennifer Easton Community Spirit Award fellowships: http://www.pinejournal.com/event/article/id/26139/

Leech Lake newborn JoDee Mae Hope Ducheneaux is remembered in this Bemidji Pioneer obituary: http://www.bemidjipioneer.com/event/obituary/id/100037835/

Late soldier, U.S. Army Specialist Jacob J. Fairbanks (Leech Lake), continues to be mourned and missed by his family: http://www.nrtoday.com/article/20120318/NEWS/120319811/1063/NEWS&ParentProfile=1055

Bemidji State University American Indian Studies professor Dr. Anton Treuer (Leech Lake) was one of the featured presenters at the Building Bridges Conference held at Gustavus Adolphus College in St. Peter, Minnesota: http://weekly.blog.gustavus.edu/2012/03/18/building-bridges-conference-recap/

The Fond du Lac Ojibwe School Ogichidaa boys' basketball team advanced to the Section 7A semifinals: http://www.pinejournal.com/event/article/id/26121/
Check out the photo gallery here: http://www.pinejournal.com/event/photogallery/id/308/

The engagement of Red Lake couple Apryl Lattergrass and Roland Lussier, Jr., is announced in the Bemidji Pioneer: http://www.bemidjipioneer.com/event/article/id/100037847/

More on White Earth's proposed MinnesotaWins casino venture to fund a new Vikings stadium:

• "Tribal Leader: A Better Way to Fund a Stadium" (Minneapolis Star Tribune) http://www.startribune.com/opinion/commentaries/142857615.html
• "Tribe: New Casino Could Bring MN $1B in 5 Years" (Twin Cities Business) http://tcbmag.blogs.com/daily_developments/2012/03/tribe-mn-could-receive-up-to-1b-from-casino-in-5-yrs.html

American Indian Association of Illinois President Dr. Dorene Wiese (White Earth) is highlighted in this Chicago Tribune feature: http://www.chicagotribune.com/features/tribu/ct-tribu-remarkable-wiese-20120316,0,2553734.story

A Duluth News Tribune reader's letter comments on the Anishinaabe response of nonviolence, harmony, and love in leading a counter-demonstration in the face of a white surpremecist gathering:
http://www.duluthnewstribune.com/event/article/id/226098/

District 196 (Apple Valley-Eagan-Rosemount) schools will host the travelling "Why Treaties Matter" exhibit during the month of April: http://applevalley.patch.com/articles/apple-valley-schools-to-host-exhibit-of-dakota-ojibwe-treaties-with-u-s

Native Voices at the Autry presents Walking on Turtle Island: http://laist.com/2012/03/16/solo_show_guides_audience_through_n.php
Ma'iinganag on Isle Royale may become extinct in a matter of years: http://www.duluthnewstribune.com/event/article/id/225960/

The Saugerties, New York, Public Library hosts Lisa A. Hart, author of Children of the Seventh Fire: An Ancient Prophecy for Modern Times: http://www.poststarnews.com/news/x1612625645/Local-author-at-Library

North Dakota State University hosted the 23rd annual Woodlands and High Plains Powwow this past weekend: http://www.inforum.com/event/article/id/354594/

The work of artist Gina Adams (Turtle Mountain Ojibwe/Lithuanian/Irish) will be featured at the Lawrence, Kansas, Art Center: http://6lawrence.com/entertainment/event-calendar/visiting-artist-workshop-gina-adams-encaustic/
Lac Courte Oreilles Ojibway Community College hosts the 2012 Northwest Wisconsin Regional Food Summit this Friday: http://www.ashlandcurrent.com/article/12/03/16/northwest-regional-food-summit-next-week

Outstanding writer Richard Wagamese (Wabaseeemoong Ojibway) was honored with the National Aboriginal Achievement Award in Media and Communications: http://www.wawataynews.ca/archive/all/2012/3/16/homelessness-center-stage_22544

Nominees for the Manitoba Book Awards are out, including a bilingual Anishinaabemowin-French picture book: http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/arts-and-life/entertainment/books/bandit-runs-away-with-nominations-for-manitoba-book-awards-143035055.html

Roseau River First Nation may violate current sanctions with Iran regarding housing investments: http://www.globalwinnipeg.com/manitoba+first+nations+risk+violating+iranian+sanctions/6442602801/story.html

Assembly of First Nations Chief Shawn Atleo visited Sandy Bay Ojibway First Nation: http://www.portagedailygraphic.com/ArticleDisplay.aspx?e=3504020

Manitoba First Nations' Wabung Development is partnering with Custom Helicopters to provide northern Manitoba First Nations with air service: http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/breakingnews/Helicopter-service-for-northern-Manitoba-announced-142997865.html
Winnipeg Free Press columnist Colleen Simard talks about the moccasin telegraph going digital: http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/opinion/columnists/Moccasin-telegraph-has-gone-digital-143057826.html

The University of Winnipeg announces a new initiative to provide all tuition and living expenses for ten students coming from foster care: http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/local/program-opens-door-to-halls-of-learning-142899915.html

A traditional Anishnawbe wedding ceremony is highlighted in this Wawatay News feature: http://www.wawataynews.ca/archive/all/2012/3/16/traditional-anishnawbe-weddings_22567

Anishinaabe elder Dave Courchene shares his thoughts on prophecy and the roles we play in the present and future: http://indiancountrytodaymedianetwork.com/2012/03/15/on-prophecies-and-the-new-age-elder-dave-courchene-discusses-the-way-forward-103034

Algoma University professor Anne Dutlinger is working with First Nations to ensure the restoration of Anishinaabe place names through map-making: http://www.sootoday.com/content/news/details.asp?c=40178

Hiawatha First Nation has high school graduation rates near 100%: http://www.mykawartha.com/news/article/1318280--hiawatha-graduation-rates-soar
Anishinaabe students in the Keewatin-Patricia, Ontario, School District are benefiting from greater Indigenous-focused initiatives: http://www.wawataynews.ca/archive/all/2012/3/16/aboriginal-focus-schools-improving-student-results_22536

Anishnawbe Mushkiki's new sweat lodge aims to support health clients' traditional spiritual health needs: http://www.wawataynews.ca/archive/all/2012/3/16/balancing-health-through-sweat-lodge_22566
Dilico Anishinabek Family Care's "Revisiting Our Journey: Healing Starts at Home" conference addressed the role of culture and traditions in healing from drug abuse: http://www.wawataynews.ca/archive/all/2012/3/16/traditions-raised-dilico-conference_22546

This year's Little Native Hockey League tournament, hosted by Sagamok Anishnawbek First Nation, had an additional community benefit by registering potential stem cell donors: http://indiancountrytodaymedianetwork.com/2012/03/18/little-hockey-tourney-registers-potential-stem-cell-donors-103283
Wawatay News columnist Stephanie Wesley offers an impassioned plea to Anishinaabeg to think hard about choosing to consume alcohol: http://www.wawataynews.ca/archive/all/2012/3/16/playing-fire_22534

Rescheduled: First Aid/CPR Class

Attention, LLTC students and community members!

The First Aid/CPR class, originally scheduled for Aabitoose (Wednesday) of this past week, has been RESCHEDULED to Saturday, March 17, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Leech Lake Tribal College's Wiigwaasi Wigamig (Birch Building, home to our Community and Continuing Education offices and classroom).

If you need this class to graduate, this is your chance to get it for FREE! The class is also open to community members, so if you need to be recertified, this is a great opportunity to do so.

For more information or if you have any questions, please contact Duane Oothoudt of Leech Lake Ambulance at 218-335-6363 or Juanita Reopelle, our LLTC CCE Director, at 218-766-5301.

Thursday News Gathering

Reminder: Leech Lake Tribal College will be closed tomorrow, Friday, March 16. Campus will reopen and classes restart on Monday, March 19, with our regular hours.

51-year-old Cheryl Rose Gurno (Red Lake) is remembered in this Bemidji Pioneer obituary: http://www.bemidjipioneer.com/event/obituary/id/100037742/

More on White Earth's proposed MinnesotaWins metro casino plan to help fund a new Vikings football stadium: http://www.bradenton.com/2012/03/13/3936468/states-five-year-share-of-new.html

The University of Minnesota's Ojibwe People's Dictionary continues to get positive press: http://minnesota.cbslocal.com/2012/03/14/u-of-m-launches-online-ojibwe-english-dictionary/
Ojibwe People's Dictionary: http://ojibwe.lib.umn.edu

More on the proposed wolf hunting seasons in Minnesota and Wisconsin and some Anishinaabeg's opposition to them:

• "No Justice for Wolves, Appeals Court Allows Wolf Hunts to Continue" (Howling for Justice blog) http://howlingforjustice.wordpress.com/2012/03/14/no-justice-for-wolves-appeals-court-allows-wolf-hunts-to-continue/
• "Religious Liberty Story Gets Headlines" (Get Religion blog) http://www.getreligion.org/2012/03/religious-liberty-story-gets-headlines/
• "Wisconsin Assembly Approves Wolf Hunting" (New York Times) http://green.blogs.nytimes.com/2012/03/14/wisconsin-assembly-approves-wolf-hunting/

Hoop dancer Kevin Locke (Lakota/Anishinaabe) will be one of the special guests at the annual FAME Festival in Fort Wayne, Indiana: http://www.news-sentinel.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20120315/ENT/303159992/-1/LIVING

The 40th Dance for Mother Earth Powwow happens this weekend in Ann Arbor, Michigan: http://www.annarbor.com/entertainment/40th-dance-for-mother-earth-powwow-in-ann-arbor-happens-this-weekend/

More on Wisconsin's recent mining bill and proposed iron ore mine situation:

• "Lassa Column: We Can Pass Responsible Mining Bill" (Wisconsin Rapids Tribune) http://www.wisconsinrapidstribune.com/article/20120315/WRT06/203150348/Lassa-column-We-can-pass-responsible-mining-bill
• "My View: State Could Have Found Mining Solution" (Wisconsin Rapids Tribune) http://www.wisconsinrapidstribune.com/article/20120315/WRT06/203150350/My-view-State-could-found-mining-solution

Less ice is forming over Great Lakes during the climate's warming winters: http://www.cbc.ca/news/yourcommunity/2012/03/community-reaction-to-great-lakes-ice-loss-study.html

University of Manitoba faculty member Niigaanwewidam James Sinclair gives a talk entitled "Doodemag Shadows: Anishinaabeg Literature from Past to Present" as part of U of M's New Faculty Colloquium series: http://myuminfo.umanitoba.ca/index.asp?sec=140&too=200&dat=3/15/2012&sta=2&wee=3&eve=8&epa=53328

Iskatewizaagegan (Shoal Lake 39) First Nation takes issue with a water and sewage-treatment sales plan by Winnipeg, Manitoba: http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/local/reserve-fighting-city-in-court-142746155.html

The book Anagoog Meegiwawinan (The Gift of Stars) by Basil Johnston (Cape Croker Anishinaabe) has been named to the International Board of Books for Young People's 2012 Honour List: http://www.owensoundsuntimes.com/ArticleDisplay.aspx?e=3501461
A Dunville, Ontario, Chronicle reader argues that Six Nations does not have standing in a Canadian-Ontario land claim case: http://www.dunnvillechronicle.com/ArticleDisplay.aspx?e=3500360
Greater outreach and initiatives focus on Indigenous students have raised student success in the Keewatin-Patricia, Ontario, School District: http://www.wawataynews.ca/archive/all/2012/3/14/aboriginal-focus-northwestern-schools-improving-results_22515

Sagamok Anishnawbek First Nation hosts the 41st annual Little Native Hockey League tournament: http://www.northernlife.ca/news/localNews/2012/03/14-lnhl-stem-cells-sudbury.aspx
Residential school survivors came together in Spanish, Ontario, for a gathering of reunion and healing: http://www.elliotlakestandard.ca/ArticleDisplay.aspx?e=3501195

Daily Art Fixx celebrates the life and artwork of an extraordinarily talented Woodlands artist, the late Norval Morrisseau: http://www.dailyartfixx.com/2012/03/14/norval-morrisseau-1932-2007-2/
In his latest column, Maurice Switzer (Alderville Mississauga) talks about "Aboriginal worldview" and Indigenous peoples' relationship to the earth and its inhabitants: http://www.baytoday.ca/content/editorials/details.asp?c=46278

Happy π Day!

Math and science afficiandos around the world are celebrating Pi Day!

No, not pie the dessert (though that is an excellent way to celebrate Pi Day); pi [π] the greek symbol standing for irrational number that is the ratio of a circle's circumference to its diameter, which is approximately 3.14, hence the March 14th celebration.

Learn more about Pi (a.k.a. 3.14159265359, a.k.a. π) by checking out these great resources:

• Pi Day - http://www.piday.org
• Teaching Pi - http://www.teachpi.org

Aabitoose News Gathering

Noongom @ LLTC:

• A first aid/CPR training is scheduled beginning at 8 a.m. in Wiigwaasi Wigamig.
• LLTC Community and Continuing Education offers AARP tax return preparation services each Aaabitoose from now until Tax Day, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. in Mitigominzh Wigamig's Conference Room 102. Please call 218-335-4200 to schedule an appointment.
• LLTC Community Education's glass bead making class continues from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. in Ininaatig Wigamig.

The Cass Lake-Bena Panthers boys' basketball season ended last night with a loss to Fosston: http://www.bemidjipioneer.com/event/article/id/100037723/

Cass Lake-Bena Elementary School principal Patti Haasch has been given the Minnesota Elementary School Principals Association's 2012 Division Leadership Achievement Award: http://www.bemidjipioneer.com/event/article/id/100037717/

White Earth citizen Joan LaVoy responds to Mille Lacs Chair Marge Anderson's criticism of White Earth's proposed Twin Cities-based casino: http://brainerddispatch.com/opinion/open-forum/2012-03-13/ward-and-constitution

White Earth's proposed MinnesotaWins metro-area casino venture could mean a huge economic boon to the state and to the tribal nation: http://www.sacbee.com/2012/03/13/4334124/states-five-year-share-of-new.html

Environmental advocate Winona LaDuke (White Earth) recently spoke at Brown University in Boston, Massachusetts: http://www.browndailyherald.com/eco-activist-emphasizes-culture-s-role-1.2714794

Winona LaDuke is featured in the new documentary film, Arise: http://www.opednews.com/articles/Film-Arise-Shows-Power-o-by-Georgianne-Nienabe-120314-333.html

Proposed wolf hunting seasons in Minnesota and Wisconsin are opposed by some Anishinaabeg:

• "Looming Wolf Hunt Bothers Some Indians" (Appleton Post-Crescent) http://www.postcrescent.com/usatoday/article/38789451
• "Looming Wolf Hunt Bothers Some Indians" (The Northwestern) http://www.thenorthwestern.com/usatoday/article/38789451
• "Some Ojibwe Tribal Members Object to Wolf Hunting, Trapping" (Minnesota Public Radio) http://minnesota.publicradio.org/display/web/2012/03/13/ojibwe-opposition-wolf-hunting/
• "Wisconsin Legislators Must Weigh Wolf Hunt against Native American Traditions" (Outdoor Life) http://www.outdoorlife.com/blogs/newshound/2012/03/wisconsin-legislators-must-weigh-wolf-hunting-season-against-native-american

Briar Cliff University in Sioux City, Iowa, hosts a series of events focused on the tragic history and legacy of Indian boarding schools: http://www.briarcliff.edu/alumni_friends/press_release/2011/2012/031312.asp

Clifford John "Beauford" Crozier-Bober (Grand Traverse Ottawa/Chippewa) is lovingly remembered in this Mt. Pleasant Morning Sun obituary: http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/themorningsun/obituary.aspx?n=clifford-john-crozier-bober-beauford&pid=156468145&fhid=13014
Attorney Harold Monteau (Chippewa Cree) shares his thoughts on the National Center for American Indian Enterprise Development's RES 2012 Reservation Economic Summit: http://indiancountrytodaymedianetwork.com/ict_sbc/ncaied-and-niga-partnership-on-the-right-track

Dr. Cary Miller will be one of the two featured speakers at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill's 2nd annual Sequoyah Distinguished Lecture: http://uncnews.unc.edu/content/view/5156/107/

More on the now-defunct mining bill and Gogebic Taconite iron ore mine proposal, addressed in Wisconsin's State of the Tribes address:

• "Bayfield Banter 3/15" (Washburn County Journal) http://www.washburnwi.com/articles/2012/03/13/community/doc4f5f760e95afc880601839.txt
• "Ho-Chunk Indian Leader Delivers Wis. Tribes Speech" (ABC WAOW) http://www.waow.com/story/17143474/ho-chunk-leader-to-deliver-wis-tribes-speech
• "Ho-Chunk Leader to Deliver Wis. Tribes Speech" (WTMJ) http://www.620wtmj.com/news/local/142448625.html
• "Iron Mine, Environmental Protection Would Have Gone Hand-in-Hand" (Superior Telegram) http://www.superiortelegram.com/event/article/id/64076/
• "Mike Bunch: Outside Interests Mattered to Walker" (Wisconsin State Journal) http://host.madison.com/wsj/news/opinion/mailbag/mike-bunch-outside-interests-mattered-to-walker/article_5c7e8a3e-6d48-11e1-b941-0019bb2963f4.html
• "State of the Tribes Is Improving" (Wisconsin Radio Network) http://www.wrn.com/2012/03/state-of-the-tribes-is-improving/
• "Tribal Leader Calls for Cooperation" (Milwaukee Journal Sentinel) http://www.jsonline.com/blogs/news/142499185.html
• "Tribal Leader Says Mine, Environmental Protections Can Co-Exist" (Appleton Post-Crescent) http://www.postcrescent.com/article/20120314/APC0101/120314001/Ho-Chunk-leader-optimistic-about-mining-bill
• "Tribal Leaders Urge Protection of Environment and Inclusion in State Planning" (Milwaukee Public Radio) http://www.wuwm.com/programs/news/view_news.php?articleid=10042

Download a free song, "Spell," by musical artist Lisa Marie Naponse (Atikameksheng Anishinawbe/Ojibway): http://rpm.fm/music/download-lisa-marie-naponse-spell/
New Credit Indian Reserve hosted a major historical and cultural summit entitled "Wegnesh e' aa waad Mississaugas? Who Are the Mississaugas?": http://www.sachem.ca/news/article/242036

Lakehead University hosts its annual powwow this weekend in Thunder Bay, Ontario: http://netnewsledger.com/2012/03/13/the-land-of-thunder-mountain-and-nanabousho-and-beyond-will-echo-to-the-drums-this-weekend/

The Powwow at Wells Hill Park in Toronto, Ontario, gets a positive write-up: http://www.livewithculture.ca/festivals/pow-wow-at-wells-hill-park/

Tuesday News Gathering

Noongom @ LLTC:

• It's spring break here, but campus offices are open! The LLTC Library is open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
• LLTC Community Education's two-day glass bead making class begins noongom (today) at 10 a.m. Participants must be registered and pay a $30 class fee for materials. Please call 218-335-4244 for more information.

Chi-Miigwech to Mille Lacs elementary school students for constructing and donating nest boxes for kestrels: http://www.grandforksherald.com/event/article/id/231949/

Governor Dayton's proposed Minnesota state budget includes $542,000 for White Earth human services: http://www.dglobe.com/event/article/id/55813/

More on White Earth assuming health and human services from the state: http://www.tcdailyplanet.net/news/2012/03/12/reforming-mahnomen-county
White Earth Chair Erma Vizenor responds to criticism and rumors during this election season: http://www.inforum.com/event/article/id/353922/

Bemidji Middle School has six new beautiful Anishinaabe cultural displays: http://www.bemidjipioneer.com/event/article/id/100037665/

 Tierra Westbrook looks at one of the new BMS Anishinaabe cultural displays (Photograph by Monte Draper for the Bemidji Pioneer, published 13 March 2012)

The recent anti-racism rally in Duluth, Minnesota, is highlighted in this LibCom blog entry: http://libcom.org/news/white-supremacist-rally-shut-down-13032012

Proposed wolf hunting seasons in Minnesota and Wisconsin are being met with some opposition from religious Anishinaabeg:

• "Before Wolves May Be Hunted, Science, Faith and Politics Clash" (New York Times) http://www.nytimes.com/2012/03/13/science/science-faith-and-politics-clash-over-wolves-in-wisconsin.html
• "Some Ojibwe Tribal Members Object to Wolf Hunting, Trapping" (Minnesota Public Radio) http://minnesota.publicradio.org/display/web/2012/03/13/ojibwe-opposition-wolf-hunting/
• "Tribes Oppose Wolf Hunt; Federal Cuts Reach Home; When Mom Goes Viral" (Minnesota Public Radio) http://minnesota.publicradio.org/collections/special/columns/statewide/archive/2012/03/aroundmn031312.shtml

More on Wisconsin's fallen controversial mining bill and on the cancelled Gogebic Taconite iron ore mine near Bad River:

• "Margaret Krome: Obvious Truth Is Mining Bill Was Unsound" (Cap Times) http://host.madison.com/ct/news/opinion/column/margaret_krome/margaret-krome-obvious-truth-is-mining-bill-was-unsound/article_de990c6b-ca3d-53a5-9d84-2c40444c0b21.html
• "Political Hyperbole Killed the Mining Bill" (Biz Times) http://www.biztimes.com/blogs/milwaukee-biz-blog/2012/3/12/political-hyperbole-killed-the-mining-bill
• "Tribal Chairman Addresses Mining Debate in Northwestern Wisconsin" (CBS WSAW) http://www.wsaw.com/home/headlines/Tribal_Chairman_Addresses_Mining_Debate_in_Northwestern_Wisconsin_142406605.html

Gogebic Taconite may consider Michigan's Upper Peninsula as a mining site: http://standfortheland.com/2012/03/12/gogebic-taconite-cancels-plans-for-open-pit-mine-or-have-they/

The government of Rocky Boy's Chippewa Cree Reservation holds an open meeting for citizens tomorrow evening: http://www.havredailynews.com/news/story-443443.html

A Green Association for International Activism event in Nanaimo, British Columbia, aims to inspire young people to get involved in ecological and environmental issues: http://www2.canada.com/nanaimodailynews/news/story.html?id=252f63c4-212c-45ef-8ed1-c8de7b1faf7c
University of Manitoba graduate student Leo Baskatawang (Lac des Mille Lacs Anishinaabe) is walking from Vancouver to Ottawa to draw attention to Canada's flawed Indian Act: http://www.gopetition.com/petitions/march-4-justice-change-federal-policy-and-legislation.html

The play 400 Kilometres by playwright Drew Hayden Taylor (Curve Lake Ojibway) is showing at the Magnus Theatre in Thunder Bay, Ontario: http://www.theargus.ca/articles/ac/2012/03/400-kilometres-between-who-you-are-and-what-you-are
Sir John A. Macdonald Secondary School in Waterloo, Ontario, offers students a rich Native Studies program: http://www.hwdsb.on.ca/media/news/details.aspx?id=1537&Page=0&year=&profiling

The 2012 Quebec Aboriginal Science Fair will be held March 20-21 in Kitigan Zibi Anishinabeg First Nation: http://kec.qc.com/blog/2012/03/12/the-quebec-aboriginal-science-fair/

Monday News Gathering

This Week @ LLTC:

• SPRING BREAK! Classes are not in session this week, but campus offices remain open. LLTC Library hours are 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Thursday.
• The LLTC Nimi'idim (Powwow) Committee meets noongom (today) at 12 noon in Giizhiikaandag Wigamig (Cedar Hall)'s Benny Tonce Memorial Drum Room 204.
• LLTC Community Education offers a free yoga-pilates class noongom from 4-5 p.m. in Giizhiikaandag Wigamig's Benny Tonce Memorial Drum Room 204.
• LLTC Community Education offers a two-day glass bead making class on Tuesday and Aabitoose from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. in Ininaatig Wigamig (Maple Hall). Class fee is $30, and registration is required. Please call 218-335-4244 for more information.
• LLTC Community and Continuing Education offers AARP tax return preparation services each Aabitoose from now until Tax Day, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. in Mitigominzh Wigamig (Oak Hall)'s Conference Room 102. To schedule an appointment, please call 218-335-4200.
• Leech Lake Tribal College will be closed on Friday, March 16.

Congratulations to the Cass Lake-Bena High School Panthers boys' basketball team for advancing to the Section 8-A semifinals: http://www.bemidjipioneer.com/event/article/id/100037629/

The Grand Forks, North Dakota, Public Library notes Rez Life: An Indian's Journey Through Reservation Life by David Treuer (Leech Lake) as being one of its significant new acquisitions: http://www.grandforksherald.com/event/article/id/231778/

An Indian Country Today feature takes a hard look at the Native Mob and how gang activities are negatively impacting families and communities, including here in Leech Lake: http://indiancountrytodaymedianetwork.com/2012/03/12/native-mob-a-scourge-in-minnesota-plagues-indian-communities-102443

The Circle shares Native news from around Minnesota: http://thecirclenews.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=659&Itemid=34

An Indian Country Today feature analyzes House Resolution 1505, the National Security and Federal Lands Protection Act and its potential impact on tribal nations, including here in Minnesota: http://indiancountrytodaymedianetwork.com/ict_sbc/new-land-bill-will-affect-tribes

Fond du Lac Ojibwe School Ogichidaa boys' basketball team member Kello Brown is highlighted in this Cloquet Pine Journal feature: http://www.pinejournal.com/event/article/id/26065/

Work by artists Pat and Gage Kruse (Red Cliff/Mille Lacs) is featured at the Stillwater Artists Guild Gallery in Stillwater, Minnesota: http://www.startribune.com/local/east/141813343.html
White Earth aspires for greater economic prosperity with a proposed Twin Cities-based casino: http://www.dl-online.com/event/article/id/66414/

In the Twin Cities area March 23-25? Check out Raven Stole the Sun, a play by Drew Hayden Taylor (Curve Lake Ojibway), presented by New Native Theatre and showing at the Stepping Stone Theatre in St. Paul -- tickets only $7 apiece: http://thecirclenews.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=656&Itemid=1

Plans are being made for a memorial to the 38 Dakota men who were hanged on Friday, December 26, 1862, in Mankato, Minnesota: http://www.bemidjipioneer.com/event/article/id/100037501/

A 16-year-old polyglot named Tim has been teaching himself a large number of languages, including Anishinaabemowin:

• "Adventures of a Teenage Polyglot" (New York Times) http://www.nytimes.com/2012/03/11/nyregion/a-teenage-master-of-languages-finds-online-fellowship.html
• "Tim Speaks Ojibwe" (Indian Country Today) http://indiancountrytodaymedianetwork.com/2012/03/11/tim-speaks-ojibwe-102353

A special dog, Neejee, was rescued by Cathy McCarthy (Ojibwa): http://www.animalrescuechase.com/rescue_showcase/story.php?id=737

Henry LaDue is the new chair of North Dakota's Trenton Indian Service Area:

• "TISA Elects New Chairman" (Minot Daily News) http://www.minotdailynews.com/page/content.detail/id/563806/TISA-elects-new-chairman.html?nav=5010
• "Trenton Indian Service Area Elects New Leader" (Bismarck Tribune) http://bismarcktribune.com/news/state-and-regional/trenton-indian-service-area-elects-new-leader/article_1026b66a-6a83-11e1-b66b-001871e3ce6c.html
• "Trenton Indian Service Area Elects New Leader" (Williston Herald) http://www.willistonherald.com/news/trenton-indian-service-area-elects-new-leader/article_ed9225e6-6a08-11e1-bb56-001871e3ce6c.html

More news and commentary on the discontinued plan for an iron ore mine near Bad River and Wisconsin's fallen mining bill:

• "After the Mine: All That's Left Is a Bitter Aftertaste" (La Crosse Tribune) http://lacrossetribune.com/news/state-and-regional/wi/after-the-mine-all-that-s-left-is-a-bitter/article_839ec8fa-6c34-11e1-bb19-001871e3ce6c.html
• "After the Mine: All That's Left Is a Bitter Aftertaste" (Wisconsin State Journal) http://host.madison.com/wsj/news/local/govt-and-politics/after-the-mine-all-that-s-left-is-a-bitter/article_333f1691-d5af-552c-99f3-a56ecab130e5.html
• "Cathy Stepp Column: Dems Wrong to Blow up Mine Bill" (Wausau Daily Herald) http://centralwisconsinhub.wausaudailyherald.com/article/20120312/WDH06/203120326/Cathy-Stepp-column-Dems-wrong-to-blow-up-mine-bill
• "DNR Secretary Speaks out on Failed Mining Bill" (Wisconsin Ag Connection) http://www.wisconsinagconnection.com/story-state.php?Id=307&yr=2012
• "DNR's Stepp Blasts Opponents of Mining Bill, Calls It 'Political Piñata'" (Wisconsin State Journal) http://host.madison.com/wsj/news/local/environment/dnr-s-stepp-blasts-opponents-of-mining-bill-calls-it/article_6321f752-6a0c-11e1-9876-0019bb2963f4.html
• "G-Tac Backs Out" (Superior Telegram) http://www.superiortelegram.com/event/article/id/63942/
• "(R-WI WMC) Except for Dale Schultz (R-WI), the Legislative Process & the Mining Bill of Doom" (Living Lake Country) http://www.livinglakecountry.com/blogs/communityblogs/142183603.html
• "State Commentary: Proposed Iron Ore Mine" (Manitowoc Herald Times Reporter) http://www.htrnews.com/article/20120311/MAN07/203110415/State-commentary-Proposed-iron-ore-mine
• "Warm Winter Shows Wisconsin in Environmental Trouble" (Badger Herald) http://badgerherald.com/oped/2012/03/11/warm_winter_shows_wi.php

Social studies teacher Jeff Ryan and his advocacy for Indigenous issues, including supporting Lac du Flambeau citizens during difficulties with having walleye harvesting treaty rights recognized, is highlighted in this Minnesota Public Radio feature: http://minnesota.publicradio.org/collections/special/columns/news_cut/archive/2012/03/jeff_ryan.shtml

An Indian Country Today feature shares the story and beauty of the 22nd annual Heard Museum Hoop Dance Championship: http://indiancountrytodaymedianetwork.com/2012/03/11/the-power-of-the-world-works-in-circles-99732
In a National Post commentary on what laws readers would like to see enacted, one reader suggesting "Native reform" refers to First Nations as "ridiculous remnants of 'nations'": http://fullcomment.nationalpost.com/2012/03/12/todays-letters-there-ought-to-be-a-law/

The National Post reviews Indian Horse by Richard Wagamese (Wabaseemoong Ojibwa): http://arts.nationalpost.com/2012/03/09/book-review-indian-horse-by-richard-wagamese/

Assembly of First Nations Chief Shawn Atleo visited Sandy Bay Ojibway First Nation: http://www.portagedailygraphic.com/ArticleDisplay.aspx?e=3496816

Winnipeg Free Press columnist Colleen Simard (Ojibwa) shares a story from her teenage years about a time she wanted to be white: http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/opinion/columnists/wanting-to-be-blond-white-142176013.html

Lake of the Woods' Nanaandawe'iyewigamig Health Access Centre offers the Ezhi Waabajigeing (How We See Things) lunch-and-learn events with special guest elders on the first Tuesday of the month: http://www.lotwenterprise.com/ArticleDisplay.aspx?e=3495967

Sagamok Anishnawbek presents the 41st annual Little Native Hockey League Tournament running all week:

• "Alderville First Nation Youth Headed to Sudbury for Annual Tournament" (Northumberland News) http://www.northumberlandnews.com/feature/article/1314239--alderville-first-nation-youth-headed-to-sudbury-for-annual-tournament
• "Little NHL Begins Sunday" (Northern Life) http://www.northernlife.ca/news/sports/2012/03/09-little-nhl-sudbury.aspx
• "Little NHL Hockey Tourney Ready to Go" (Mid-North Monitor) http://www.midnorthmonitor.com/ArticleDisplay.aspx?e=3493293
• "Little NHL Tournament Faces off Sunday" (Sudbury Star) http://www.thesudburystar.com/ArticleDisplay.aspx?e=3497480

A Thunder Bay, Ontario, Chronicle-Journal reader analyzes the Robinson Superior 1850 treaty: http://www.chroniclejournal.com/editorial/letters/2012-03-10/treaties-clear-and-concise