I understand many don’t know me outside of my work in Accounting at LCO. My family is from the Wolf Point community, we are Crane clan, descended from Head Chief Akiwenzi. My father was Raymond Wolf, Senior, former Vice-Chair for LCO, and my mother, Dulcie Wolf, was a friend to all and helper at LCO school. Like our parents, my sisters Mary, Phyllis and I are actively involved with our grandchildren, the 7th generation from Chief Akiwenzi. Our vision together is to look forward 7 generations for the purpose of goodness and betterment of life at LCO for those who come after.
Like my mom, l enjoy laughter and visiting, as on the morning rides with others from the community on the Namekagon Transit to work at the Tribal office. Dad taught me punctuality, industry and ethics. When he was still living, I would stop in after work to get his counsel before walking home. How I miss them both.
Dad stressed education so I followed through. Northwest Regional Educational Lab is where I assisted Tribes with the development of their culturally relevant reading materials; as Assistant Director of BIE Indian Education in Washington DC, I prepared and defended the BIE budget before the Office of Management and Budget (OMB); I worked for Digital/H-P for eleven years where I progressed from Financial Analyst to Regional Financial Services Manager; I worked for the Tribe, first as CFO of the casino and lastly as CFO for the Tribe, with a proven record of clean audits.
I am a forward thinker. As a TGB member, I would apply my skills and business knowledge to ensure we are taking proactive steps to safeguard our tribal resources, to serve and communicate to our tribal membership.
Dulcie Rae Wolf
Asiniiwaabi’kwe
Boozhoo LCO,
As a member of Lac Courte Oreilles, daughter of Art and Alberta (Kingfisher) Fleming, I am excited to accept my nomination as a candidate for the 2025 Tribal Governing Board election. One of 11 siblings, I grew up in Signor near the Billyboy Dam on the Couderay River. My values, which include honesty, integrity, and a strong work ethic, can be attributed to my upbringing. I conduct my professional
and personal life with a sense of responsibility, caring, compassion, and concern for the well-being of family and community. I hold an AS degree in Business from the Lac Courte Oreilles Ojibwe Community College (LCOOCC). My experience includes working in the Vocational Trades program at LCOOCC. For the past 32 years, I have worked for the LCO Housing Authority in various positions, most recently as the Interim Executive Director. From these perspectives, I have learned a lot about the needs of our tribe and would like to expand my ability to work on creating opportunities and solutions to these needs.
I believe in education and training as a means of strengthening our community. I believe that we can find ways to help heal shared trauma. I believe in treating people with respect and integrity. I believe in listening and having open and honest communication. I believe that we can develop more revenue streams to increase our financial independence. I believe in advocating for our people at all levels of government. I believe my combined upbringing, work experience, volunteerism, and service on boards and committees locally, regionally, and nationally have prepared me to represent LCO here at home and in external government relations.
If elected, I will work hard to effect positive changes, create opportunities, find solutions, and stand up for our people.
Miigwech for your support.
Boozhoo, my father is Pete Ford-baMoose) and my mother, Evelyn Isham-ba, Whitefish and Reserve, respectively. I grew up in the Round Lake area, and I currently live in Drytown.
I have a degree from Northland College in Business Administration, with a Minor in Computer Information Systems. I want to use my degree to help the people understand what our Tribal Government does for the community.
We need to start focusing on how Tribal Government is and relate it to business. What is the tribe’s mission statement? What is the tribe’s organizational chart? How can we use these two to create a better environment for all our membership? We could have strategic planning meetings so that we can better serve our community. We need to ask ourselves and our leaders how we would like to see the community in five years? Or ten? If there are substantial changes needed from the strategic planning, then we will need to communicate to our membership efficiently, so they can have the corrected information. Eventually, for any change, we will need to get in the habit of using a referendum, which allows the people to vote on a certain issue.
David Fleming is an economic development professional who specializes in Native finance and Tribal business development. David has a graduate degree and 25 years of experience in business but relies on the advice and wisdom of Ojibwe elders in important decisions and strategic goal setting. David has primarily worked “behind the scenes” advocating for business development that emphasizes the seven teachings and the interconnectedness of all life on Mother Earth (Non-Natives call this “sustainable” development”). David respects current leadership and respectfully asks for your support and vote to take an active role in moving our Tribal priorities forward in a healthy way. As a Tribal council member David will actively work to improve access to business resources, housing opportunities, renewable energy independence, language revitalization, and protection of the water and earth.
Boozhoo!
My name is Mashkawigaabaw, which means, Stands Strong. I am also known as Thomas Isham and I am Crane Clan from Lac Courte Oreilles.
For those who don’t know me, I have an extensive background in the development and management of casinos, resorts, golf courses, small business development and have written many policies and procedures, along with job descriptions for the same.
My Grandpa, Albert Isham, instilled in us at a young age to continue to learn and to use that knowledge for the benefit of our tribe. He took us to powwows and ceremonies to learn and understand the importance of being Anishinaabe. Over the years I have done just that. From being given a list of Elder’s names to hunt for as a teenager, to working with the Tribe to start up businesses including the LCO Store, LCO Development/Sawmill and the LCO Print Shop. And then on to write legislation for Indian and non-Indian gaming.
Right now, I see the need for a new Constitution which places accountability, along with the
checks and balances on the people representing us. Being a multi-million-dollar tribe, this is necessary to protect our investments, our sovereignty and our future. Our membership needs to be able to use our Constitution to tell our leaders, the Tribal Governing Board, how we want to be represented by them. A good Constitution will give the membership the tools to manage our governing board in how they represent us at the local, county, state, national and international levels. Also, I see the need to establish mandatory, accurate monthly reporting procedures by our Tribal Governing Board to our membership. Tribal members have the right to be kept updated on current and upcoming projects. And to be respectfully listened to on proposed projects.
Our reservation is in one of the most beautiful areas of northwest Wisconsin. There is nothing to stop us from once again becoming the most desired destination spot for tourism, cultural events, sporting events and business development. We currently have entities that need to be held accountable, to be prosperous and to be further developed. These include Big Fish Golf Course, The Landing Resort, Sevenwinds Casino and of course, The Hideout.
What is needed are people who can see the future while continuously improving what we
already have. I would like to be one of those people that you can count on to get it done right. It would be my honor to work with like-minded people to accomplish making our current entities top ranked and profitable, while developing new businesses for our future.
Chi Miigwech!
Thomas Isham – Candidate for Tribal Governing Board
As a proud tribal and community member, it has been my greatest honor to serve you in various capacities over the years, none more fulfilling than my role as your Councilmember. Together, we have achieved remarkable milestones, always prioritizing the well-being of our members through jobs, homes, healthcare, education, and family support.
From helping draft the first-ever personnel policies for LCO to working in our first casino and serving on Tribal Council, my commitment has always been to advocate for, defend, and assist our members. As a team, we’ve accomplished so much: building over 40 homes on our reservation, ensuring clean water through expanded water and sewer systems, creating jobs across government and business sectors, and transforming our community college into a thriving university. We’ve also established vital infrastructure, including a new clinic, firehall, police station, and daycare facilities, all designed to serve and protect our members.
Yet, our work is far from over. As our Tribe and population grow, we must modernize and expand our efforts to better serve our people. This includes supporting tribal member-owned businesses, increasing housing availability, and extending water and sewer infrastructure to communities like Signor, which has waited far too long for clean water. We must also invest in our youth, ensuring they have access to education, job opportunities, and housing. With our new healthcare facility, we have the chance to elevate the health and well-being of our members through exceptional care.
Together, we can build on our successes and continue striving for a brighter future for all. I am committed to working tirelessly for our community and humbly ask for your support as we move forward. I humbly ask you to VOTE FOR DON CARLEY!
Boozhoo LCO Community,
I have happily accepted my nomination and am seeking your support for a seat on our Tribal Council. For over three decades, I’ve dedicated my career to the gaming industry, including 28 years in management. This experience has given me a deep understanding of tribal enterprise, fiscal responsibility, and the importance of strong vendor relationships – skills crucial for effective leadership and keen decision making.
But more importantly, my focus has always been on our people. My platform is built on these core principles:
My experience isn’t just about years served; it’s about results achieved and relationships built. I am ready to put this experience to work for you.
Let’s ensure LCO members come first. I ask for your trust and your vote. Miigwech”
My name is Louis D. Taylor, and I humbly announce my candidacy for re-election to the Lac Courte Oreilles Tribal Government. I remain committed to service, guided by our sovereignty, and dedicated to protecting the interests of all our people, from our youngest to our elders, and the generations to come.
As a member of the governing board, I have been a steadfast voice for our people at federal, state, and local levels, demanding respect and recognition of our sovereign rights. I carry forward the legacy of our ancestors, ensuring we are heard not just as individuals, but as a united and enduring nation.
When I joined the tribal board, I knew we were already strong—rooted in wisdom and sacrifice—but there was more work ahead. I’m proud of the progress we’ve made revitalizing our language and teachings, expanding opportunities for youth, improving healthcare, growing our economy, and asserting our sovereignty.
Our youth are not just our future, they are our present. Every decision I make is grounded in our responsibility to prepare a better path for them. We must continue investing in education, leadership, and resource protection.
Financial responsibility, sovereignty, and strong governance are not just ideals, they are the principles that guide my work. I have fought to ensure every dollar spent reflects our people’s priorities and to strengthen our right to self-determination through wise stewardship.
In this campaign, I chose not to engage in negativity. Our people deserve leaders who rise above division and focus on unity, solutions, and hope.
I am proud of what we’ve accomplished together and believe the best is still ahead. I respectfully ask for your support and your vote. Miigwech for standing with me as we continue building a future that honors our past and serves generations to come.
Michael “Mick” Tainter is a lifelong member of Lac Courte Oreilles (LCO), a decendent of the Tainter/Homesky family. His parents were Art & Cathy Tainter of “Tainter Hill” near New Post. Mick is retired from the U.S. Navy after serving for 20 years, and he is currently working in the Information Technology Industry for CDW. Mick been leading digital infrastructure projects for more than 30 years. On numerous occasions, Mick has led strategy and projects across a broad spectrum, including technology implementations, data center builds/management, operations support system upgrades, logistical requirements for a highly mobile organization and IT governance.
Mick and his family moved back to LCO in 2023, where he plans to retire from his current position and focus on using his 20 years of government and 25 years of IT experience to enhance the LCO Community. Over the past 18 months, Mick has been conducting community outreach in the New Post Community to help them organize and assist with their issues and concerns. Over the past year, he has been actively engaged in many events in New Post, including managing two facilities to ensure they are maintained to a high standard.
Mick also recently engaged with our Tribal Elders to assist with the creation of a revised LCO Constitution. He has years of experience creating Governance Frameworks for multi-billion-dollar organizations and has managed budgets exceeding two (2) billion dollars. Mick has a wealth of experience in economic growth and is well-suited to make a direct impact on the sustainability of LCO.
My name is Billie Jo Taylor, and I am a Lac Courte Oreilles tribal member. I have lived and worked almost my whole life on the reservation. I am a senior at Oregon State University pursuing my bachelor’s degree in Public Health Administration-Health Management & Policy. I graduated from Lac Courte Oreilles College with an associate’s degree in accounting, medical office mid-management, and business management. I have four children who live in Sioux Falls, Eau Claire, Stone Lake, and another preparing to leave for college in Duluth, MN. I have worked for the tribe in various aspects such as Housing Services, Income Maintenance, Party Club/Customer Service at the Casino, and many aspects of the Health Center. Most of my years were spent at the Health Center, working in different areas, which has helped me see a broader picture of healthcare needs. The healthcare of the tribal members has become my passion over the years. I have proudly worked for the health center as Finance Director for the past 6 years, until my position was “eliminated” this past February. Our leaders should support and empower our tribal members regarding our workforce, which I feel is lacking. I also believe our members do not have a strong enough voice, as we are often silenced, and I believe I can help in this matter.
Boozhoo!
My overall goal is to work hard for my tribe by giving back to the community and helping my fellow tribal members.
My promise to each of my tribal members is that I will educate myself on the issues that come before the council and cast my vote based on valid information, and review what the impact will be on each tribal member. Some of the qualities I can bring to the council: Honesty, Integrity, Dependability, Self-Responsibility, Leadership, and Respect. I will continue to uphold the value and exemplify a strong sense of leadership for any tribal members, in addition to creating programs for our youth.
I would like to see a financial analysis conducted over the entire LCO tribal administration and all enterprises to evaluate spending practices, jobs, and wage disparities. Developing Pathways-to-Work programs along with programs for drug prevention awareness among the youth. Drug treatment facilities with transitional housing, program support, and job opportunities available to tribal members in recovery. Family-oriented attractions for the community and tourist families.
I would also advocate on behalf of all my tribal members: elder concerns, strengthening tribal resources for housing, extended support for those dealing with hardships, community healing and wellness, a youth council, tribal minimum wage/competitive tribal wage, stable workforce, community safety officers, economic growth, more general membership meetings along with community meetings.
I understand the responsibility and commitment it takes for this position; I will do my best to uphold the traditions and values for the people of LCO. I believe in open communication, so please feel free to reach out to me.
I encourage you to join me in exercising your right to vote in the primary election and hope to gain one of your votes. Your voice is important and needs to be heard!
Migwech!
Daylene Sharlow-Gokey
Boozhoo. As a candidate for the Lac Courte Oreilles Tribal Governing Board, I would l ike to introduce myself.
Currently, I am the Superintendent for LCO Development. I’ve served in this role for 12 years. I am a seasoned professional with 37+ years experience in construction. The skills and experience needed to run projects of all different sizes and scopes. I bring a proven track record of helping companies streamline processes, improve efficiency and complete projects on time while under budget.
I have been the tribal consultant to the tribal governing board in many capacities from building budgets, architectural needs and safety adherence. I am the candidate that will always have the best interests of our workforce at the table. This background is what is needed to represent you on the Tribal Council.
I am a family man with family values; I have served in the United States military and am a proud community member. I believe all community members have a voice to be heard and respected. From our tiny tots to our precious elders. Uniting our tribal members is on the top of my list of priorities. For far too long, our community has been divided by our government, and I will work to improve that. Having a tribal government that supports its membership should not be a campaign issue but a way of life.
My leadership, experience and qualifications are what are needed in these difficult times. We, as Anishinaabe, are facing challenges that require solid leadership and guidance. A strong voice that is willing to represent and stand up for LCO in a time that it needs it the most.
In return for vote and support, I can and will be that voice for you.
Miigwech.
Boozhoo nindinawemaaganag,
David Scott Bisonette nindizhinikaanigoo. Since July 2023, I have had the honor and privilege of serving on the LCO TGB. Here are some accomplishments during that short time:
Ongoing Current Projects Include:
Future Projects Include:
During my time on the TGB, my goals have been and continue to be:
In these challenging times with local, state, and national issues affecting LCO, I have the necessary experience, knowledge, and commitment to continue working to ensure that LCO continues to be the best place to live. By working together, we can accomplish anything and everything. Please be a part of the solution: vote on Saturday, May 10. Miigwech
Boozhoo. It is with great honor and privilege that I accept my nomination as a candidate for the 2025 Lac Courte Oreilles Tribal Governing Board. My education and professional experience have equipped me with the skills necessary for this position.
I am a United States Marine Corps veteran from the Chief Lake/Black Bear community. I hold an undergraduate degree in Political Science/Government Operations from the UW-Madison and a Law degree from UW-Madison Law School. I have work experience
in Federal Indian law, tribal courts, and government operations. I have worked for the tribe as a tribal attorney, Chief Judge, General Counsel for the LCO University, and as the Tribe’s Attorney General. Additionally, I have served on the Sawyer County Board of Supervisors and as a Court Commissioner for the Sawyer County Circuit Court.
I have a commitment for respect and cooperation. It is my pledge to our people that I will not engage in or condone personal attacks against our tribe, tribal leaders, or tribal members. In the current political climate, personal attacks are far too common. I am committed to upholding the integrity of our community, ensuring that all voices are heard and respected, even in times of disagreement.
My dedication lies with my tribe, my people, and our government. We should strive to embody the principles of Mino Bimaadiziwin in our daily lives, prioritizing balance, respect, humility, and purpose. Regardless of background we are all from LCO.
My background and experience will strengthen LCO for the challenges coming from the federal and state governments. LCO needs to be at the table in Washington DC, or in Madison, advocating for our membership, protecting our resources, and preserving our jobs. I humbly ask for your support and your vote in the upcoming election. We are stronger together. Miigwetch.
My name is Tweed Shuman,
It has been a great honor serving our Tribe over the past 30 years. I have spent 22 years as a Registered Nurse and 8 years as your elected leader. I’m passionate about serving our Tribe, exercising and protecting our Sovereign Treaty rights and am a dedicated hard-working leader.
My top priorities include:
I have built our Tribe’s financial position with increased, diversified revenue, controlled spending and expanded boundaries through land acquisitions.
Our Tribe has experienced many victories over my Tribal leadership. Before I took office in 2017:
We created financial stability by:
I will continue my commitment towards controlling the unconstitutional spending and improving the Financial Status of Lac Courte Oreilles.
Hello, all my relatives. Ozhaawashko-bineshiinh nindizhinikaaz, ma’iingan nindoodem. My english name is John “Randy” Cadotte, but most people know me as Randy. I am seeking your support for the upcoming 2025 Tribal Council elections.
First and foremost, I am a family man with a beautiful wife and four amazing children. We are all LCO Tribal Members and have lived within our great nation for most of our lives.
Currently, I am the program director for the Wisconsin Native Loan Fund. We are a Native CDFI whose sole mission is to provide access to capital to Native communities throughout Wisconsin.
Previously, I worked in economic development at Wisconsin Indigenous Economic Development Corporation and also in Tribal gaming for over twenty years. Additionally, I have enjoyed serving and representing our Tribe on numerous Boards of non-profit organizations and profitable businesses. Through all these diverse experiences, I have acquired a unique set of forward-thinking, solution-based, and “outside the box” business skills, which I believe will benefit our Tribe.
We are facing trying times with the new Presidential Administration. We need to quit fighting internally, start unifying our Tribe, and create a strategy to overcome any future hardships.
It is imperative that we start respecting one another again. We don’t have to agree on everything, but we need to respect each other and ultimately, come away with one unified voice that will help our entire community and fortify our future generations.
Secondly, we need to hold each other accountable, especially ourselves. We have to quit blaming each other, learn from our mistakes, and become better Anishinaabe.
Boozhoo,
I am Lorraine Gouge’ a Lac Courte Oreilles Tribal Elder and a candidate for the upcoming Primary Election. I am asking for your support in this election. I am the daughter of Marilyn (Tainter) Marlenee and John Fleming from the village of New Post. I have four children and nineteen grandchildren and now am a Koobie, with two great granddaughters.
I am an Alumni of the LCO Ojibwe School and LCO Ojibwe University. I am currently a student at the LCOOU working on my master’s degree in human services.
I have dedicated my life to serving the members of my tribe in separate roles within education and other services. My passion in life has always been education and the health and welfare of the LCO Tribe. I am currently the Retention Director at the LCO University. I worked in the Hayward Community School District for 30 years as an advocate for the Native American students and their families.
I am the former Vice Chairwoman of the LCO Tribe and served in this role from 2019-2023. I took my role as a leader very seriously and represented the LCO Tribe with honor and respect as I fulfilled my responsibilities at the local, state, and national levels. I served on the committee for the Administration for Children and Family, Tribal Relations Committee, and Great Lakes Inter-Tribal Council. I have worked closely with Governor Evers, especially during the COVID-19 Pandemic.
It takes experience and knowledge to serve as a leader and I would be honored to serve in this capacity again. I am a woman of faith. I look to the future of our tribe, and I have paved the way for future tribal members.
Boozhoo indinawemaaganidog. Opichi indizhinikaaz, Migizi indoodem. Baataawigamag indoonjibaa, Odaawaa-zaaga’iganiing indanakii noongoom.
Greetings my relatives,
My name is Janet Quaderer, and I’m the daughter of Steve and Judy Quaderer. I grew up in the Whitefish community and now raise
our six children, along with my partner of 27 years, in North Reserve. We also have four grandchildren. I hold a bachelor’s degree in business administration with a concentration in management from the University of Wisconsin-Superior.
Throughout my life, I have served the Lac Courte Oreilles community in many ways—from emergency services and law enforcement to grants and planning, youth programs, and education initiatives. Today, I continue to give back as Co-Chair of the Honor the Earth Powwow Committee, President of the LCO Language Camp Planning Committee, and recently Chair of our Election Committee.
I am committed to advancing our shared values and beliefs:
I believe that we must lead with integrity, honor the trust placed in us, and stay rooted in our traditions. Together, we can protect our rights, revitalize our culture, empower our youth, and build a Nation that stands strong for generations to come.
Miigwech mii sa iw!
Boozhoo! A little about me, I am the daughter of Leslie Isham, granddaughter of Dewey (Karen) Isham and am proud to raise my family here in LCO. I graduated from our Tribal K-12 and University (formerly community college) and then received a bachelor’s degree from UW-Platteville in Business Management.
I am currently the Planning and Grants Director for LCO, and in this position, my team and I have been able to successfully bring millions of dollars to the community to create and enhance community programs and services, as well as jobs. Because of this role, I work with the Tribal Government on a regular basis and would not have to “learn on the job”. I understand where improvement is needed to provide transparency and accountability to the membership and my background in financial management, accounting, and federal compliance will also ensure that we remain financially strong and responsible.
Beyond my current position, I have other governance and board experience and I’m comfortable with public speaking. I can articulate our community’s strengths and needs clearly and respectfully when working with state and federal agencies.
My focus areas include:
Through these initiatives we can create better systems and supports to maintain and advance our beautiful community!
Miigwech for your support!
This is who I am and what I stand for: I am a person of faith who believes in the LCO people and myself. We are a resolute nation and have endured years of discrimination efforts to demean and intimidate us, this goes back to my early childhood years in the Hayward School district, fortunately most of that is behind us now and we are generally in better relations with our neighbors. I am a big supporter of education and have a master’s level certificate with a Baccalaureate Degree in an AA in Business Administration, before this I attended LCOOCC in 1986. I have fond memories of friends and family in the New Post community during my HS tenure in the 70’s and here where LCO Ojibwe School stands now. I love to reminisce about my early educators in my HS years such as Dennis and Cleo White, Bill Sutton, Rick St. Germaine, Preston Larson, Savon Gouge, Joyce Miller, later, Librarian Sue Quaderer and others who dedicated themselves to education on LCO.
I love my people and cultrue and what we believe in, our families, children, elders and hunting, fishing, and gathering practices. With great respect I remember my uncle Biiziike, Harold Frogg, uncle Bullie. He is my personal inspiration to proudly once again place my name on the LCO TGB Ballot. Another mentor was Gordon Thayer who helped me greatly to overcome an addiction lifestyle in 2010. I proudly carry on both legacy’s. Both also served on Tribal Council. One mentor was traditional and one was Christian, I credit this diversity to my grandfather Sam Frogg who practiced both ends of the spectrum and taught me how to appreciate and gather positives from both worlds. AHO! By Jeff Crone.