The Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians (GTB) held its 21st Natural Resources Fair & Feast on Saturday at Arthur Duhamel Marina.
Passing rain showers in the morning didn’t stop community members from gathering at the marina for the many activities lined up for the day to honor the tribe’s traditions and treaty rights. The fair’s theme revolves around the responsible use, management, and preservation of natural resources for future generations.
Treaty Fishing Co. owners’ Ed and Cindi John of Northport, were also presented with the 2025 Michigan Heritage Award by Micah Ling, associate director of the Michigan Traditional Arts Program at Michigan State University. The Michigan Heritage Awards honor individuals “who continue their family and community folk traditions with excellence through practice and teaching, or individuals who are recognized as outstanding community leaders in the maintenance, documentation, or presentation of traditional arts.” The program, first established in 1985, was created to call attention to the state’s “exceptional tradition bearers and supporters of traditional culture” whose contributions to Michigan’s heritage had not been recognized previously. Award winners receive an award plaque, special legislative tribute from the State of Michigan, and a $1,000 stipend.
