09/06/2026
Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians:
Upcoming Events for the Week of September 7, 2026 – September 12, 2026
As we transition into the beautiful month of September, our schedule highlights a meaningful blend of community wellness, important educational workshops, and vital cultural traditions. Throughout the week, you can look forward to multiple fitness and mindfulness sessions at the Strongheart Center, an informative Medicare benefits seminar at the Benzie Office, and important community wellbriety sessions at the Medicine Lodge. We close out the week on Saturday, September 12, with our deeply significant 3rd Annual Sturgeon Release Ceremony at Hannah Park in downtown Traverse City, where we will come together to return Nmé to the Boardman-Ottaway River.
Please note that in observance of Labor Day, all GTB Government Offices will be closed on Monday, September 7, and will reopen on Tuesday morning at 8:00 a.m.
Events, activities, and offerings are subject to change without prior notice. In the event of adverse weather or the closure of GTB Government Offices, all in-person activities will be canceled for that day.
Highlights this week:
· Labor Day - GOVERNMENT OFFICES CLOSED
· Strongheart Pilates
· Strongheart Morning Functional Strength & Mobility Yoga
· Understanding How to Maximize Your Medicare Benefits - Benzie Office
· Domestic Violence Prevention and Awareness Classes
· Household Hazardous Waste Collection - Traverse City
· 3rd Annual Sturgeon Release Ceremony
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Tribal Council Community Meetings
This fall, Tribal Council will also be visiting our communities for a series of Community Meetings. These meetings are an opportunity to connect directly with Council, ask questions, share concerns and discuss matters important to you and your community.
Please join us for conversation, a light snack, and fellowship. Meetings will be held from noon to 2:00 p.m. on the following dates:
Charlevoix – September 17 (10085 Wa-Ba-Noong Mi-Kun, East Jordan)
Antrim – September 18 at Kewadin Indian Mission Hall (248 Cairn Hwy, Kewadin)
Leelanau – October 8 at Council Chambers (2605 N West Bay Shore Dr, Peshawbestown)
Benzie/Manistee – October 9 (7282 Hoadley Rd, Benzonia)
Grand Traverse – October 14 (845 Business Park Dr, Traverse City)
We look forward to visiting with our members and hearing from you.
Can’t make it to a community meeting? Please remember you can always submit questions, comments, and/or concerns by sending an email to [email protected]
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Important Membership Announcement - The Natural Resources & Environmental Committee has one (1) committee vacancy:
· One (1) appointment to be filled by the Tribal Council for a 4-year term; and Interested GTB members are encouraged to submit a letter of interest by September 30, 2026.
Please send your letter of interest for the Natural Resources & Environmental Committee appointment to:
Legal Department Office
GTB of Ottawa & Chippewa Indians
2605 NW Bayshore Drive
Peshawbestown, MI 49682
Or
[email protected]
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GTB Health/Benefits Department & Hudson Wealth Management
Understanding How to Maximize Your Medicare Benefits
A seminar helping to make sense of your Medicare options. Together, we'll navigate the path to better healthcare coverage that honors your needs in coordination with the PRC Program.
Local Expertise: Advisors specializing in retirement planning and health insurance decisions right here in the Traverse City region.
Tribal Partnership: Honored to support Tribal members through trusted partnerships and clear guidance—helping individuals make the most of their healthcare benefits with confidence and care.
September 2, 2026 | 11:30AM Lunch | 1:00PM Presentation
GTB 3 Mile Office
845 Business Park Dr, Traverse City
September 3, 2026 | 11:30AM Lunch | 1:00PM Presentation
Elder's Complex
11201 E. Ki-dah-keh mi-kun, Peshawbestown
September 10, 2026 | 11:30AM Lunch | 1:00PM Presentation
Benzie Office
7282 Hoadley Rd, Benzonia
September 30, 2026 | 11:30AM Lunch | 1:00PM Presentation
Charlevoix Office
10085 Wa-Ba-Noong Mi-Kun, East Jordan
Contact Information:
For more information, contact the PRC Hotline (for all appointments except Dental)
Email: [email protected]
Phone: (231)-534-7223
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GTB HEALTH DEPARTMENT TRANSPORTATION SERVICES REMINDER: WE HAVE OPENINGS!
The GTB Health Department is committed to providing health-related transportation services to GTB members.
Transportation Services Policy and Procedures (Transporters and CHRs):
1. Prioritize GTB Elderly and Disabled members, and GTB members with NO OTHER means of transportation.
2. Must schedule at least 24 hours in advance by calling the Transportation Hotline: 231-534-7222, with appointment(s) date and time and a follow-up phone number.
3. Transportation is based on the availability of Transporter/CHR.
4. All rules pertaining to the availability of other means of transport must be exhausted prior to transport.
5. Medical appointments are restricted to those not requiring anesthesia, unless you have accompaniment by family or friend 18 and older.
6. All patients under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent.
7. For a prescription pick-up, please call the Transporter at 231-534-7222 BEFORE 10 am or BEFORE 3 pm.
UPDATED PRC CLIENT REMINDER:
PLEASE CONTACT 231-534-7223 TO CALL IN ALL APPOINTMENTS THAT ARE REQUESTING PRIOR AUTHORIZATION. WE WILL GET BACK TO YOU WITHIN 2 BUSINESS DAYS IF MORE INFORMATION IS NEEDED, OTHERWISE YOUR AUTHORIZATION WIIL BE SENT TO THE PROVIDER.
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Benodjenh Center Enroll Now! Limited Space Available!
Classes start September 8, 2026
2026 - 2027 Early Head Start / Head Start Readiness Program
Tuition Free!
Ages birth - 5 years
Some of the services we offer...
Center Based
Transportation Services (for a limited area)
Health Services (including hearing, vision and speech screenings)
Parent and Family Involvement Opportunities
Individualized Teaching
Incorporation of the Native American Culture
A safe and friendly environment with a qualified staff that cares
Family Services
Nutritious meals and snacks
For more information, please contact (231) 534-7650. Application is at https://www.gtbindians.org/benodjenh.asp
Or contact Kathy Worden
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Nenaandawi’iwed – Traditional Healer Available
Behavioral Health is honored to share that Traditional Healer Gerard Sagassige is available to support community members.
With over 20 years of experience in Anishinaabek traditional healing, Gerard offers culturally grounded care focused on holistic wellness, spiritual balance, and community connection.
Services may include:
✨ Spiritual guidance
✨ Traditional teachings
✨ Ceremonies (sweat lodge, fasting camps, sacred fires, sunrise ceremonies)
✨ Healing and traditional medicines
📞 To schedule:
Call Marion Wabanimkee-Minzey at 231-534-7091
Or book online: https://massageGTBbh.as.me/
Availability may vary—please call to check upcoming dates.
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Request for Proposals (RFP) – Now Open!
The Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians is seeking proposals for upcoming projects and services. This is a great opportunity to bring your expertise, creativity, and commitment to serve our community.
Tribal Members who should apply?
· Independent contractors
· Businesses
· Professionals with specialized services
Why apply?
· Collaborate with GTB on meaningful initiatives
· Support community-driven priorities
· Showcase your skills and innovation
Learn more and submit your proposal here: https://bit.ly/GTB-apply-RFP
Don’t miss your chance—apply today!
Opening and closing dates vary for each RFP. Be sure to check details carefully before submitting.
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Here’s a quick look at what’s happening from September 7 – September 12, 2026
***Events, activities, and offerings are subject to modification without prior notice. In the event of adverse weather conditions or the closure of the GTB Government Office(s), all in-person scheduled events, activities, and offerings will be canceled for that day.***
Monday, September 7, 2026
· Labor Day - GOVERNMENT OFFICES CLOSED
GTB Government Offices Closed Monday, September 7, 2026 In observance of Labor Day. Government Offices will reopen at 8:00 a.m. Tuesday, September 8, 2026!
If you need immediate assistance, please use the emergency number list: https://bit.ly/GTB_EPN_042326
Event Link: https://www.gtbindians.org/events.asp?eid=3251
Tuesday, September 8, 2026
· 5:30 PM – 6:30 PM: Strongheart Pilates
Join Maajii Wellness instructor Lyndsay Sharpened Stone for a full-body workout that focuses on strength, balance, flexibility, posture, and core stability.
Location: Strongheart - 2700 Strongheart Way, Peshawbestown
Event Link: https://www.gtbindians.org/events.asp?eid=3618&ins=9/8/2026
Wednesday, September 9, 2026
· 8:00 AM – 9:00 AM: Strongheart Morning Functional Strength & Mobility Yoga
Come join Mariann (Selphica) for an energizing yoga class designed to build strength, improve mobility, and support the body you move through life with.
Location: Strongheart - 2700 Strongheart Way, Peshawbestown
Event Link: https://www.gtbindians.org/events.asp?eid=3549&ins=9/9/2026
· 11:00 AM: Election Board Special Session
Reminder: Registration is required for ALL Zoom sessions! Register for Election Board Regular & Special Meetings: https://bit.ly/GTB-Reg-ElectionBoard
Location: Council Chambers & Online via zoom
Event Link: https://www.gtbindians.org/events.asp?eid=3643
· 2:00 PM: Wellbriety - Healing & Educational Circles *Not GTB Sponsored*
Held in person whenever possible in the medicine lodge cafe, inside the behavioral health services area of the medicine lodge
Location: Medicine Lodge - 2300 N. Stallman Rd., Peshawbestown
Event Link: https://www.gtbindians.org/events.asp?eid=3607&ins=9/9/2026
· 5:30 PM – 6:30 PM: Strongheart Evening Yoga and Meditation
Join Mariann (Selphica) for a deeply nourishing evening practice designed to help you reconnect to the wisdom of your heart, calm the nervous system, and restore inner balance.
Location: Strongheart - 2700 Strongheart Way, Peshawbestown
Event Link: https://www.gtbindians.org/events.asp?eid=3548&ins=9/9/2026
Thursday, September 10, 2026
· 11:30 AM: Understanding How to Maximize Your Medicare Benefits - Benzie Office
11:30AM Lunch | 1:00PM Presentation
A seminar helping to make sense of your Medicare options. Together, we'll navigate the path to better healthcare coverage that honors your needs in coordination with the PRC Program.
Location: Benzie Office - 7282 Hoadley Rd, Benzonia
Event Link: https://www.gtbindians.org/events.asp?eid=3646
· 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM: Domestic Violence Prevention and Awareness Classes
Join us Thursdays through 9/24/26 from 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM
Location: Medicine Lodge - 2300 N. Stallman Rd., Peshawbestown
Event Link: https://www.gtbindians.org/events.asp?eid=3624&ins=9/10/2026
Friday, September 11, 2026
· Friday Closures for Some GTB Government Offices
Departments that will remain open Monday–Friday: Health Clinic (Providers Only), Dental Clinic (Providers Only), Pharmacy (Providers Only), Law Enforcement (Officers Only), the Fire Department, and Tribal Council.
Unsure if a department is closed? Contact them directly or check the emergency contact list posted at office entrances or online here: https://bit.ly/GTB_EPN_042326
More Information: https://www.gtbindians.org/events.asp?eid=3582&ins=9/11/2026
· 1:00 PM – 6:00 PM: Household Hazardous Waste Collection - Traverse City
Visit the link to schedule your Drop-Off Appointment: massageGTBbh.as.me/
Location: 2200 Dendrinos Dr, Traverse City, MI 49684 (Boardman Lake Campus)
Event Link: https://www.gtbindians.org/events.asp?eid=3648
Saturday, September 12, 2026
· 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM: 3rd Annual Sturgeon Release Ceremony
Join us for our 3rd Annual Sturgeon Release Ceremony to return Nmé (Lake Sturgeon) into the Boardman-Ottaway River. The event will include a ceremony, prayers, food, drinks, and a community release of hundreds of juvenile Nmé. Please bring a lawn chair.
Location: Hannah Park - 213 6th St, Traverse City
Event Link: https://www.gtbindians.org/events.asp?eid=3630
Visit gtbindians.org/events.asp for full event listings and links.
Baamaapii miinwaa—see you soon!
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Community Events & Opportunities
(Not GTB-Sponsored):
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Labor Day Mackinaw Bridge Walk for Water
Native & Non-Native Water Protectors Welcome!
This Labor Day, the Three Fires Confederacy will come together for our first unified call to action, a peaceful demonstration of Anishinaabe presence, strength, and commitment to protecting our homelands, treaties, and waters. Please join us for a Stop Line 5 demonstration at the Labor Day Mackinac Bridge Walk in partnership with the Anishinaabek Caucus and the Michigan Climate Action Network.
Date: Monday, September 7th 2026
Timeline:
6:00AM - Check-In & T-Shirt Pick Up
North Side: Bridge View Park
South Side: Indian Pathways Park
6:30AM - Water Ceremony on either St. Ignace or Mackinac Shorelines
7:30AM - Bridge Walk Begins
Wear: Ribbon Skirts, Ribbon Shirts, Regalia, Traditional Attire or Free Stop Line 5 Shirt
Bring: Copper, Drums, Staffs, Jingle Dresses
JOIN US TO WALK, PRAY, AND PROTECT THE WATER!
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Parenting Communities September Schedule
Free playgroups and events for Leelanau families with children from birth through age 6. funded by the Leelanau Early Childhood Millage.
Special Events
Body Safety Story Time
Description: Read-aloud & consent practice with Henry, the Facility Dog. Intended for children age 2-6 and their caregivers. Co-hosted by Traverse Bay Children's Advocacy Center.
Session 1: Tuesday, Sept. 22 at 10:00 AM – Glen Lake Community Church
Session 2: Saturday, Sept. 26 at 11:00 AM – Leland Township Library
Families Together
Description: A monthly gathering for Leelanau County families to connect, learn, and grow together. Dinner provided. Includes connection with families, parenting/child development topics, and supervised playtime.
Schedule: 3rd Monday of the month, October–May from 5:15 PM – 7:00 PM
Location: Keswick Church, Suttons Bay
Weekly Playgroups (All sessions run from 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM)
Tuesday: Glen Lake Playgroup
Dates: Sept 15, 22*, 29 (*Sept 22 features Body Safety Story Time)
Location: Glen Lake Reformed Church
Wednesday: Northport Playgroup
Dates: Sept 16, 23, 30
Location: Northport School Gym
Thursday: Suttons Bay Playgroup
Dates: Sept 17, 24
Location: The PINK Room at Suttons Bay Public School
Note: New location. Park in the front circle and enter through the elementary office. Bring your ID for a visitors pass.
Friday: Cedar Playgroup
Dates: Sept 11, 18
Location: Bee Well, 9044 S Kasson St
Contact & Community Info
Phone: (231) 256-0227
Address: 7401 E Duck Lake Rd, Lake Leelanau
Website: www.parentingcommunities.org
Social Media: (Instagram) | (Facebook)
Affiliation: Proud member of the Great Start Collaborative of Traverse Bay
