BAND ASSEMBLY ZOOMS THROUGH TO KEEP BUSINESS MOVING ON TRACK

By Vivian LaMoore, Inaajimowin Editor

It is business as usual in Band Assembly, although not entirely as usual. Technology is a great thing when it is working properly. There are times when it doesn't. For those times when it doesn't, it is good to have a backup plan. And that is what the Legislative Branch has done. The live streaming feature for Band Assembly meetings had been experiencing technical difficulties for several weeks beginning in late August. Specialized hardware has been ordered and is expected to arrive soon. But business must go on and has been conducted nonetheless.

Sessions have continued and the work was being done, often times via Zoom.

On Wednesday, September 11, 2024, the swearing in of Bernida Humetewa, the new District III Associate Justice was completed via Zoom, sworn in by District II Associate Justice Brenda Moose.

On Wednesday, September 18, 2024, Crystal Weckert was sworn in for Gaming Regulatory Board, sworn in by District I Associate Judge Rhonda Sam.

Also on Wednesday, September 18, 2024, Darcie Big Bear was nominated by Chief Executive Virgil Wind to the position of Commissioner of Administration. A confirmation hearing for Big Bear followed. Big Bear gave a strong presentation that was well received by the full Assembly. The Band Assembly unanimously approved the nomination. Big Bear is currently the Parliamentarian of the Legislative Branch. Each member of the Band Assembly agreed her presence in the Legislative Branch will be missed but each member was supportive and encouraging to Big Bear for the confirmation. A swearing in ceremony will be held at a later date.

Also during the September 18, meeting, a presentation from Jamie Edwards, Government Affairs, gave a presentation regarding the "Get Out The Vote" #GOTV efforts to boost voter turnout. Due to a change in Minnesota statutes, temporary early voting spaces can be set up for tribal communities within their reservations for a least one day. The Government Affairs team has set up spaces for each of the three districts. See article on page 11 for details.

Government Affairs is looking for volunteers to help in the #GOTV efforts. Any interested parties should contact 320-362- 1719 or email curt.kalk@millelacsband.com. The Band Assembly meetings were recorded for the record and can be found online at millelacsband.com/members/ live-streaming