LCO Elder Council Hosts Candidate Forum
Home FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEDate: May 6, 2025By: Jennifer Cadotte, Public Relations Specialist, 715-699-3384Email: publicrelations@lco-nsn.gov 2025 LCO TGB Primary Candidates Forum Hosted by the LCO Elder Council Lac Courte Oreilles, Wis. – On Saturday, May 3, 2025, the LCO Elder Council hosted a forum inviting 2025 LCO TGB Primary Candidates to read a statement and answer questions drawn from a hat. “Our reason for doing them was to give candidates some visibility and to give members a better understanding of the candidates,” said Faith Smith, LCO Elder Council. The Primary Candidate statements were videotaped and shared on the Facebook page:LCO Constitution Reform Group Back To All News
Cannabis Information Session To Be Held
Home Join Us For An Info Session On Cannabis This is a safe and open space to learn more about medcal cannabis, agricultultural research opportunities, and LCO’s developments in cannabis! Wednesday, May 28, 2025 6:00pm – 8:00pm at the Sevenwinds Casino Conference Center Open to Tribal Members only. Back To All News
Dates Announced For Elder Food Boxes
Home FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEDate: April 23, 2025By Jennifer Cadotte, Public Relations Specialistpublicrelations@lco-nsn-gov Elder Food Box Distribution Dates Announced The Lac Courte Oreilles Food Distribution Department would like to share the distribution schedule for the 2025 Tribal Elder Food Boxes. Boxes can be picked up at: 9026 Round Lake School Road, Hayward, WI 54843 PLEASE NOTE: Food provided is for Tribal members 55 years and older. This project is funded by an Intertribal Local Food Purchasing Assistance grant and funding awarded through the Wisconsin Biennial Budget. The project is coordinated by the Great Lakes Intertribal Food Coalition in partnership with Feeding American Eastern Wisconsin For more information, please see the flyer below and call Dan at 715-634-3677. Back To All News
Club & School Leaders Issue Statements To Finance Committee
Home FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEDate: May 1, 2025By: Jennifer Cadotte, Public Relations Specialist, 715-699-3384Email: publicrelations@lco-nsn.gov Boys & Girls Club CEO and LCO School Superintendent Issue Statements To Joint Finance Committee Lac Courte Oreilles, Wis – On Monday, April 28, 2025, the Wisconsin Joint Finance Committee held a listening session in Hayward, WI. LCO Ojibwe School Superintendent Jessica Hutchison and Boys & Gilrs Club of Lac Courte Oreilles Chief Executive Officer Melinda McKevett-Isham provided statements requesting no reduction to existing funding to programs such as Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) which supports many after school activities for our youth. You can read the full statements below. Statement from Melinda McKevett-Isham, Boys & Girls Club CEO Statement from Jessica Hutchison, LCO Ojibwe School Superintendent Back To All News
LCO TGB Affirms Support for Judicial Safety and Respect
Home FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEDate: May 1, 2025By: Jennifer Cadotte, Public Relations Specialist, 715-699-3384Email: publicrelations@lco-nsn.gov Lac Courte Oreilles Tribal Governing Board Affirms Support for the Safety and Respect of Judicial Officials in Tribal, State, and Federal Forums Lac Courte Oreilles, Wis. – The Lac Courte Oreilles Tribal Governing Board (LCO TGB) stands against all forms of intimidation and racism directed at judges at all levels of government – Tribal, State, and Federal. To be able to make fair and impartial decisions that are supported by facts, law, and the applicable Constitution – judges must not fear for their safety. It is widely recognized across the country that disorder, disruption, and improper conduct by clients, witnesses, jurors, and others appearing in court do impact and affect the administration of justice. There must be civility and professional respect for our judicial institutions – even when one may disagree with a judicial decision or rule. In March of 2024, a package of bipartisan bills was passed within the State of Wisconsin that addressed the personal safety of judges. Representative Ron Tusler, R-Harrison was one of sponsors of the legislation. In comments he made to Wisconsin Public Radio (WPR), Rep. Tusler stated regarding the 2024 judicial safety legislation: “No judge should have to worry about their safety simply for doing the job the people elected them to do,” “This bill is not just a legislative measure; it is a commitment to the safety and integrity of our judicial system,” “Without it, we risk deterring qualified individuals from serving as judges, weakening the foundation of our legal system.” This package came at a time when there were 142 threats made against Wisconsin judges per the Wisconsin Supreme Court Marshal’s Office, and in the wake of the 2022 murder of retired Juneau County Circuit Judge John Roemer. Sawyer County Circuit Court, Branch 2 Judge Monica Isham, a respected member of the Lac Courte Oreilles Band of Lake Superior Chippewa Indians, made history in 2023 as the first woman and first Native American elected as judge in Sawyer County. Upon assuming her position, she took an oath to uphold and defend the Constitutions of both the United States and the State of Wisconsin. In April of 2025, Judge Monica Isham sought guidance from fellow Wisconsin Circuit Court judges regarding an incident involving a Milwaukee County Judge’s arrest. In her letter, Judge Isham courageously shared her own experiences with racial harassment within the courtroom and expressed that she has, at times, felt unsafe in her role. She reached out to her colleagues for guidance, solidarity, and institutional support. The LCO TGB commends Judge Isham for her bravery in advocating for justice, fairness, and safety; not only for herself, but for all who serve in the judiciary system. We recognize the unique and challenging position she holds as an Indigenous woman in the judicial system, and we stand beside her in calling for a safe and respectful environment for all judges. The LCO TGB strongly condemns any threats or acts of violence directed toward members of this country’s judicial system. We firmly believe that every individual, regardless of their background, beliefs, or experiences, deserves to be treated with dignity, respect, and compassion. Let us move forward together guided by respect, grounded in truth, and united in our shared humanity. Back To All News
Primary Candidate Forum – LCO Elder Council
Home FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEDate: April 29, 2025By: Faith Smith, LCO Elder Council, (715) 558-4673 May 3, 2025 – Primary Candidates Forum – Kinnamon School Lac Courte Oreilles, Wis. – The Lac Court Oreilles Tribe’s Election Committee has announced that twenty-seven tribal members nominated to serve on the Tribal Council meet the criteria to run in the Primary, scheduled to take place on May 10th. The eight people who receive the highest number of votes will run for the Tribal Council. On June 21st, tribal members will vote to fill four vacancies on the Tribal Governing Board. The LCO Elder Council encourages candidates for the primary to come to Kinnamon School (the LCO Tribal Museum) on Saturday May 3rd, from 9am to 4 pm, to record a message that will be posted on Facebook. Candidates may schedule a specific time to record their message by calling Koobies Coffee Shop (715) 558-7377 or just come to the museum between 9am and 4pm to be recorded. Candidates will have the opportunity to share why they are running for tribal council and the issues important to them, as well as responding to 3 questions provided by members of the Elder Council. Back To All News
Absentee Ballots Available for the Primary Election
Home FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEDate: April 29, 2025By: Cindy Miller, Election Committee ChairEmail: cindy.miller@lco-nsn.gov Absentee Ballot Requests For Primary Election Lac Courte Oreilles, Wis. – Absentee Ballot Requests are now available and may be picked up at the Tribal Office. These may be taken to relatives who are currently in a nursing home, hospital, or serving in the military. Once completed, the Absentee Ballot Request must be mailed to: LCO Election Committee Chairperson13394W Trepania RoadHayward, WI 54843 Please note: This is a very tight timeframe. All Absentee Ballot Requests must be received no later than May 9, 2025 at 4:30 p.m. CST. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact Election Committee Chair Cindy Miller at cindy.miller@lco-nsn.gov Back To All News
LCO Public Works Announces Line Flushing
Home LCO Public Works Announces Water Line Flushing LCO Department of Public Works will be flushing the community water system during the week of April 28 to May 9 from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. This will cause a disturbance in the water system and may cause low pressure and/or discolored water. The purpose of the flushing program is to remove stagnant water, sediments and discoliored water from the mains and lines. If you notice brown or discolored water at your home, just turn on you lawn faucet until the clear water is restored. The public works department will be testing the water for backteria as we complete this flushing service. Although the water is safe to drink, residents may wish to draw water for drinking prior to the flushing of mains in their area and refrain from washing clothes until the water has cleared up. Please contact us if your water has not cleared up after an hours of turning your lawn faucet on or if you have other concerns or questions. (715) 634-0345. Back To All News
Blood Drive at LCOOU
Home FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEFor more information, contact:Jessica Wagner-Schultz, Director of Institutional Advancement, Marketing & CommunicationLac Courte Oreilles Ojibwe University, jwschultz@lco.edu715.634.4790 x186 Blood Drive at Lac Courte Oreilles Ojibwe University Lac Courte Oreilles, Wis. – April 25, 2025 – Lac Courte Oreilles Ojibwe University (LCOOU) will host a community blood drive with the American Red Cross on May 7, 2025, from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm at 13466 W Trepania Road, Hayward, WI. “Hosting a blood drive coincides with LCOOU’s core values of giving back to the community,”said Linda Londre. W”With a simple blood donation, we can help save the life of someone who could be a coworker, loved one, or neighbor.” Blood is routinely transfused to patients with cancer and other diseases, premature babies, organ transplant recipients, and trauma victims, according to the Red Cross. “The short amount of time it takes to donate can mean a lifetime to a patient with a serious medical condition. We urge eligible donors to join us in the selfless act of giving blood.” Donors of all blood types are needed, especially those with types ) negative, B negative, and A negative. According to the Red Cross , type O negative is the universal blood type that can be safely transfused to anyone and is often used to treat trauma patients. For more information or to make an appointment to donate, email llondre@lco.edu or sign up online at redcrossblood.org About Lac Courte Oreilles Ojibwe UniversityThe Lac Courte Oreilles Ojibwe University’s mission is to provide Anishinaabe communities with post-secondary and continuing education while advancing the language, culture, and history of the Ojibwe. Lac Courte Oreilles Ojibwe University (LCOOU) is a non-profit Ojibwe tribal college. We are an open-door institution that is proud to serve American Indian students. LCOOU welcomes non-native students and celebrates a diverse student population at all of our locations. Learn more at http://lco.edu Back To All News
Be Bear Aware This Spring!
Home FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Date: April 24, 2025Contact: Marcus Rufledt, DNR Wildlife Program SpecialistMarcus.Rufledt@wisconsin.gov or 608-438-6480 Be Bear Aware: Take Steps Now To Avoid Potential Conflicts with Black Bears This Spring To avoid potential conflicts, it’s important to recognize what attracts black bears and take steps to reduce these attractants whenever possible. / Photo Credit: Wisconsin DNR Madison, Wis. – As the weather warms and people across the state begin spending more time outside, the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) encourages the public to be bear aware and take steps to prevent potential conflicts with black bears this spring. Every spring, Wisconsin’s estimated 24,000 black bears emerge from their winter torpor and leave their dens in search of food and potentially new territory. These explorations sometimes cause unexpected interactions between black bears and the public. Bears are normally solitary forest animals, but their powerful sense of smell can lead them into urban areas in search of food, especially in the spring and fall. To avoid potential conflicts, it’s important to recognize what attracts black bears and take steps to reduce these attractants whe ever possible. Black bears are known for returning to locations where they’ve found good food sources, so prevention is the best tactic. Although black bears are much more common in the northern half of the state, southern Wisconsin has seen more black bear activity in recent years. No matter where in Wisconsin you live or play, follow these basic steps from our friends at BearWise to avoid attracting black bears around your home or campsite: Never Feed or Approach Bears – Never feed a bear, whether intentionally or not. The risk of unexpected interactions increases when bears begin to associate people with food. If bears find a consistent food source around people or people actively feed a bear, the bear will make a habit of visiting the area or approaching people. Secure Food, Garbage, and Recycling – Food and food odors attract bears, so don’t reward them with easily available food, liquids, or garbage. Remove Bird Feeders When Bears Are Active – Birdseed and grains have lots of calories, so they’re very attractive to bears. Removing feeders is the best way to avoid conflicts with bears. Never Leave Pet Food Outdoors – Feed pets indoors when possible. If you must feed pets outside, feed in single portions and remove food and bowls after feeding. Store pet food where bears can’t see or smell it. Clean and Store Grills – Barbeque grills and picnic tables often have leftover food scraps or residues on them that can attract bears. Cleansurfaces after use in public spaces to reduce negative human-bear interactions. Store clean grills and smokers in a secure area that keeps bears out. Alert Neighbors to Bear Activity- See bears in the area or evidence of bear activity? Tell your neighbors and share information on how to avoid bear conflicts. Bears have adapted to living near people; now it’s up to us to adapt to living near bears. Know What To Do If You Encounter A Bear If a black bear is near your home or cabin, from a safe location, try to scare the bear away by making loud noises (like clanging pots and pans together) or throwing objects in the bear’s direction. Black bears tend to avoid interactions with people if escape is possible, so make sure it has a clear escape route – never corner a bear. Do not turn you back to a bear or run away. Once the bear is gone, remove any items that may have attracted the bear in the first place. If you encounter a black bear while in the woods, stay calm and do not run. Wave your arms and make loud noises to scare it away. Back away slowly and seek a safe location from where you can wait for the bear to leave. Never approach a bear. For your safety, do not attempt to break up a fight between a pet and a bear. Learn more about being BearWise in the outdoors and what to do if you encounter a black bear. If unable to resolve a recurring issue with a nuisance bear, contact the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)’s Wildlife Services toll-free lines: USDA Wildlife Services, Northern Wisconsin: – 800-228-1368 (in-state) or 715-369-5221 USDA Wildlife Services, Southern Wisconsin: 800-433-0663 (in-state) or 920-324-4514 For more information about avoiding unexpected interactions with black bears, visit the DNR’s Black Bear Management webpage or download the printable Living with Black Bears pamphlet. Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources | dnr.wi.gov Call 1-888-936-7463 (TTY Access via relay – 711) frm 7 a.m. – 10 p.m. Back To All News