Saginaw Chippewa community meeting planned for Jan. 18

Observer Staff

1/15/2004 12:00:00 AM

Saginaw Chippewa Tribal members from all three districts will have the opportunity to meet the new Tribal Council at the Jan. 18 community meeting.

Registration will begin an hour before the 2 p.m. dinner at the Soaring Eagle Entertainment Hall. All members must have their Tribal I.D. before being allowed to attend the meeting.

"The community meetings are a positive opportunity for the membership and Tribal Council to get together," stated Chief Audrey Falcon. "It is also a chance for Tribal Council to communicate with the membership about what is going on."

Falcon will deliver her State of the Tribe address before remarks from Sub-Chief Bernie Sprague and the rest of Tribal Council. Department presentation will include the Ziibiwing Cultural Society and Nimkee Memorial Wellness Center. There will also be an update on the Tribe's residential treatment center.

A financial report, as well as a question-and-answer period is also listed on the event's tentative agenda. Members of the Anishnabe Ogitchedaw Veterans and Warrior Society will also take part in the meeting with the posting of colors. An opening prayer will be said by Chaplain Milton Pelcher and a closing prayer will be delivered by Perry Bailey Jr.

"We realize there are many concerns that need to be addressed," added Falcon. "We are in the process of doing our research with the assistance of program directors and many Tribal departments within our organization. This Council administration has not made any decisions regarding enrollment issues, however, we are preparing for a State of the Tribe address that will provide the Tribal membership with the mission of this Council administration.

"We need to hear your voice and your support is vital to the growth of all who live and work in our community. Our Council administration considers it to be an honor and responsibility to work for our people and we pledge to do our best to increase open communication between our Tribal Council and the Tribal membership."

District 1 Special Election

Jan. 5 Nominating petitions available

Jan. 16 Petition due

Jan. 23 Candidates listed posted

Feb. 2 Absentee ballots available

Feb. 10 Election

Feb. 17 Runoff election (if necessary)

March 2 Swearing-in ceremony