Sobriety month planned

Observer Staff

8/16/2005 12:00:00 AM

Tribal Council passed a resolution last year declaring August to be Native American Sobriety Month on the Isabella Reservation. A variety of holistic activities are planned to celebrate sobriety and a healthy community.

In addition, the Sobriety Month Committee will again be holding its pledge card drive and is asking all individuals to make a pledge of sobriety for the month of August.

Last year 350 people took the challenge. Whether you have been sober your whole life or have yet to start the journey, we are asking that you make the pledge for one month to show support for a sober, healthy community.

Aug. 2-The Ziibiwing Center will be hosting 1855 Treaty Dinner at 2 p.m.

Aug. 4-Binoojiinh Day at Ziibiwing starts at 11 a.m.

Aug. 4-From 12-3 p.m. the Grand Opening Ceremony for the Residential Treatment Center-located at 2800 S. Shepherd Road-will be taking place. Doors will be open for tours and food will be served. Call (989) 775-4850 for more information regarding this event.

Aug. 5-Visit the Ziibiwing Center for Chi Moccasin: World's Largest Pair of Ojibwe Moccasins at 11 a.m.

Aug. 6-Freedom Walk; In keeping with the theme of sobriety and beginning a healthy journey, the Sobriety Month Committee has decided that the walk will start from the Behavioral Health/Residential Treatment Center-2800 S. Shepherd Rd. This should send a very strong message of support to those who are beginning their journey to wellness. Registration begins at 7 a.m. at the Residential Treatment Center followed by breakfast at 7:30 a.m. Speakers will share a message between 8:30 and 9 a.m. The walk is expected to take place from 9 and 10 a.m. concluding at the powwow grounds. Free tote bags will be handed out to the first 300 registered participants and there will also be giveaways and raffles. A free shuttle service will be provided to and from the powwow grounds. Accommodations will be available for those unable to walk the route due to medical conditions as well. (989) 775-4894.

Aug. 6-At-Large is hosting Rez Rods: Tribal Member Car Show in the At-Large Parking Lot from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Call (989) 775-4944 for more information.

Aug.13-One of the most popular events from last year's festivities was the Rez Jam and Chili and Fry Bread Cook Off. These events will once again be taking place at the Soaring Eagle Entertainment Hall. This sober family event is free and open to the public so be sure to join us to listen to some great local bands. Enter your chili or fry bread in the Chili and Fry Bread Cook-off. Last year's winners are already gearing up and plan to continue their reign. The competition should be fierce. Doors open at 4 p.m. Call (989) 775-5653 for more information regarding Rez Jam or (989) 775-4894 regarding the chili and fry bread cook off.

Aug. 20-Seventh Generation is hosting its Annual People's Powwow with Grand Entry at 11 a.m. A meal will be served at 4:30 p.m. followed by entertainment provided by Keith Secola and the Wild Band of Indians. All activities will take place in the Village at Seventh Generation. Call (989) 775-4786 for more information.

Aug. 20-There will be a Beadwork Collection Showing at 11 a.m., noon and 1 p.m. at the Ziibiwing Center.

Aug. 23-From 5-7 p.m. Seventh Generation will be welcoming all the new little ones with its semi-annual Baby Celebration. Call (989) 775-4780 for more information.

Aug. 25-Parks & Recreation will be sponsoring a Basketball Tournament in the Tribal Operations parking lot starting at 5 p.m. Last year this was a very popular event and we hope that teams will be forming soon.