Manoomin

The Anishinaabeg migrated to the Great Lakes region from the Northeast long ago. Their oral traditions tell of a prophecy that said to journey West until they came to a place “where the food grows on water” — manoomin. Manoomin (wild rice) has played a major role in the lives of Ojibwe people. Manoomin, which means “good berry”, provides both physical and spiritual sustenance to the Ojibwe people.

The wild rice harvest has begun. Because wild rice ripens at a gradual, uneven rate, rice can be harvested repeatedly during the same season. Weather dependent, the harvest season can last four to five weeks overall. Harvest times are from 10am until sunset. Boats can be no longer than 17 feet or wider than 38 inches. Boats can only be propelled with push poles or paddles. It is a requirement to use smooth, rounded, cedar rods or sticks no longer than 38 inches. 

The image above shows some area lakes with date regulated openings. Many of the popular wild rice waters in northern Wisconsin have a date-regulated season, which means harvesters can only gather rice when they are posted “open”. The Wisconsin DNR and representatives of the Tribe cooperate to determine when rice on these date-regulated lakes is ripe.

Sources:

Great Lakes Indian Fish & Wildlife Commission (GLIFWC)

Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR)

If you are interested in learning more about manoomin, Great Lakes Indian Fish & Wildlife Commission (GLIFWC) has produced two informative brochures. Click Wild Rice and The Good Berry below to learn more:

Summer does not end until September 22, 2022, but it is already time to plan for the annual Trunk or Treat at the Hertel RV Park. If there are departments, groups, or individuals who would like to participate in this family fun event, please contact Tribal PD Chief of Police Frank Taylor for details at #715-349-8638 ext. 7006.

“My name is Amber Heinz and I’m so excited to be joining the team at St. Croix Tribal Health Clinic. I was raised in Webster where I spent many years working at Yellow River Pharmacy, so I hope to see lots of familiar faces! I completed undergraduate studies at UW-La Crosse, and received my PharmD from UW-Madison. Since then, I’ve moved back to the area with my husband, and we have a 2 year old daughter. In between chasing her around and managing toddler chaos, I love sewing, sharing/learning about holistic health and nutrition, and getting outside with my family. 

I look forward to meeting everyone and overseeing the expansion of pharmacy services for this community. I more than welcome any feedback or suggestions, so please reach out if you have something for me!”

Please work with your Director to facilitate the appropriate time required to successfully complete any trainings needed to be better equipped in your role. Below are a few regularly requested training options available through Microsoft:

·     Word Video Training

·     Excel Video Training

·     Outlook Video Training

·     Publisher Video Training

What is “Labor Day”?

Labor Day is a federally recognized holiday observed on the first Monday in September. It is an annual celebration meant to recognize the social and economic achievements of American workers. Labor Day is celebrated today because of labor activists in the late nineteenth century who rallied for a federal holiday to acknowledge the contributions of workers. Labor Day was first celebrated on September 5, 1882, in New York City. By 1894, 23 states had adopted a Labor Day holiday and on June 28, 1894, President Grover Cleveland signed into law that Labor Day would be nationally recognized on the first Monday in September.

While we rightfully enjoyed our extended holiday weekend, it is important those working for the Tribe understand the disparities existing between Native Americans and others within the United States labor market. As of June 2022, the national unemployment rate was 3.6%. The State of Wisconsin’s unemployment rate is currently hovering around 3%. In comparison, the unemployment rate is much higher for Native Americans living in rural Wisconsin counties – it is estimated at 11.5%-15%.

Unemployment and poverty are so very connected, and the implications for our communities are significant. If someone you know is unemployed and looking for a job, please have them reach out to the Human Resources Department at #715-349-2195 ext. 5196 to see what positions fit their needs and skillsets. The St. Croix Tribal Government, Health Clinic, and Enterprises have multiple openings. Tribal leadership recognizes the importance of fostering a fantastic workplace culture, which ultimately delivers happy employees and better services. 

Sources:

History of Labor Day | U.S. Department of Labor (dol.gov)

Current National Unemployment Rate, by State or City (unemployment-extension.org)

WI Budget Project, Jon Peacock

The Father Support Program is hosting a fishing trip at McQuoid’s Inn in Isle, MN, on September 22nd. The trip will be from 4pm-8pm. The trip has SIX more openings. This is an amazing opportunity for fathers, or father figures, to engage with their children in Ojibwe culture and teach about treaty rights in harvesting fish.

Please reach out to Butch Buck, Father Support Coordinator, for trip details at 715-349-2195 ext. 5127.