“It wasn’t even a matter of believing in myself, it was just a matter of, ‘I gave my word, so now I am going to follow through and see where this takes me,’” NHBP Tribal Member Lynn TenBrink said. TenBrink’s word took her on a two-day 152-mile ride on a brand-new bicycle all the way from Lake Michigan to Lake Huron.
Many things change throughout our life span – our mobility, independence, health and nutrition needs. Many people notice changes in their food preferences, appetite and more as they get older.
It was a beautiful morning on Saturday, June 4, when the name of the newly completed park in Albion, Michigan, was unveiled. Calhoun County Parks partnered with the Nottawaseppi Huron Band of the Potawatomi to name the park. Tribal Council Secretary Nancy Smit was in attendance to represent the Tribe on this special day.
“Of all the phases of housing development, this has to be my favorite,” said Tribal Council Vice Chairperson Dorie Rios. “This Phase VIII development is being dedicated to two beloved Elders who have since walked on. They were so instrumental in the history of NHBP housing. These two individuals fought, tirelessly, for decades, making it their mission to get safe housing for all of our Members.”
NHBP Tribal Member Jessi Goldner was named as one of 40 under 40 award recipients by The National Center for American Indian Enterprise Development for her continuous leadership and her role as Director of Compliance for Waséyabek Development Company, LLC.
“Helping the Alaskan Natives understand that their traditional foods are the healthiest and best for them is such a high calling for me,” said NHBP Tribal Member Jessilyn Dunegan, MS, RD, CSP, LD, CNSC. “Their traditional ways with food help move their culture forward.”
Many people have a common question: “What is normal eating?” The short answer to that question is that there is no such thing as “normal” eating because every person is unique and has their own genetics, food preferences, medical needs and relationship with food.
“Creator, I would like to thank you for this day; thank you for all the hearts that are here and all the hearts that are represented, that are missing, that are lost and just waiting to be found. We acknowledge them today,” Smit said before stepping off the stage to make space for a water ceremony.
“Don’t wait until you are in crisis; you’re not a failure if you need help,” Marton said. “Sometimes, you just need a booster in life.”
“We were worried about participation for Flapjack Friday, but the event blew away all of our expectations,” Keith said. “We didn’t want to take away from the traditional events, but I think we complemented it with the activities, education and giveaways.”