The Grand River Citizen ©
Again the BIA has issued another extension, but this time only until April 27, 2017. This is becoming an overutilized provision of the Code of Federal Regulations (25 CFR 83.10(h)) whereas the ASIA may extend the process for up to 180 days. I personally don't believe it is intended to be used more than once, but that's just my opinion.
Currently the Bureau of Indian Affairs Office of Federal Acknowledgement is working on a decision regarding re-affirmation of the Grand River Bands of Ottawa Indians and restoring government to government relations to our pre-IRA (Indian Reorganization Act) status. In a letter from the BIA they said that a decision will be reached on or before September 30, 2015. When their review of GRBOI's submitted paperwork is complete their findings will be posted, by law, in the Federal Register which is "The Daily Journal of the United States Government". Upon re-affirmation when Federal Recognition is restored, this site GRBOI.com, along with GRBOI.net and GRBOI.org will be turned over to our Officially Elected inaugural government to disseminate information on behalf of our people.
Unfortunately at this time I will no longer be able to continue with this site, which has been in operation since the Summer of 2001, and I would like to thank you for your support. I look forward to seeing all our Citizens when it is time for us to have a Constitutional Convention to enact the laws and regulations which will govern our people for generations to come.
Chimiigwetch
Ossokeh Ahninii
aka Scott Wyzlic
Citizen GRBOI
Federal Register Searches:
Grand River Bands of Ottawa Indians Grand River Band of Ottawa Indians
BIA/OFA
House Bill which may influence the timing and outcome of the GRBOI re-affirmation: H.R.3764 - Tribal Recognition Act of 2015 (Introduced 10/20/2015)
UPDATE 10.25.2016:
In a letter dated 24 October 2016 the BIA/OFA has issued another extension until 21 February 2017 stating "Administrative issues" once again.
For questions or concerns contact:
Office of Federal Acknowledgment,
1951 Constitution Ave. N.W.
MS -34B SIB
Washington D.C. 20245
UPDATE 10.22.2016:
The GRBOI annual meeting was held at the new GRBOI building located at 1316 Front Ave. in Grand Rapids on Saturday afternoon. Chairman Yob announced that he is expecting Notice of the BIA/OFA's Determination on Monday October 24th as per their last communication.
UPDATE 4.24.2016:
Again the Bureau of Indian Affairs has sent a letter informing the tribe of another time extension. The current extension will remain in effect until October of 2016.
The Grand River Bands of Ottawa Indians have moved into a newly acquired tribally owned property, the new address is:
Grand River Bands of Ottawa Indians
1316 Front Ave.
PO Box 2937
Grand Rapids, MI 49501-2937