The Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians

Meet the Council

Title: Chairman

Name: Derek J. Bailey

Phone Number: 231.534.7103

Derek J. Bailey, 38, was sworn in as Tribal Chairman in December 2008. Derek currently served on Tribal Council from 2004-2008, in which he served over two years on the Executive Council as Secretary. Chairman Bailey becomes the fifth chairman in the history of the Grand Traverse Band. He holds a Master’s degree in Social Work, graduating from Grand Valley State University in 1998. He has extensive work experience in both clinical and administrative work in the areas of behavioral health. Also, he has worked for GVSU in the past years teaching as an adjunct professor in their MSW program. Derek and his wife, Tonia, reside in Leelanau County with their five children; Panika, Nimkees, Daanis, Ohsaw Kihew and Maengun. Over the past year, Chairman Bailey has also filled the Chairmanship for the Inter-Tribal Council of MI, Inc. and the Chippewa/Ottawa Resource Authority. In May of 2010, he received a Presidential Appointment, by President Obama, to the National Advisory Council on Indian Education. Chairman Bailey’s administration will focus on continuing to meet the needs of the Tribal Membership, focus on increasing the Nation’s economic diversification, the preservation and retention of the Odawa and Ojibway cultural practices and Anishinaabemowin, the spoken language of the Anishinaabek.

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The secret of success, to me, is to enjoy what you do. I’ve found that a great habit to develop is to go through each and every day with a smile for others. I practice it whenever I get the chance. It’s a small gesture that requires little effort and makes you and the other person feel better immediately. I enjoy working for the Tribe and our people. I’ve enjoyed the journey, with something new to learn every day. My approach is not one of an expert. We try to surround ourselves with capable people and then stand aside to allow them to manage. People appreciate the freedom to excel in their work. We work hard together as a Tribal Council to address any and all issues that arise regarding the Membership when given the opportunity to do so. It’s an honor to be working toward the best possible future for our people. Developing programs and shaping laws that will meet the needs of our people, one and all, helps to assure that future. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to serve.

Aanii (Hello),

My name is George M. Antoine; I was born in Bellaire MI and grew up in the Kewadin/Elk Rapids area. I went to school in Elk Rapids and graduated in 1971. I joined the US Army in 1971 and was honorably discharged in 1980. I continued my education at Northwestern Michigan College and also at Lake Superior State University. I worked for many years in the Behavioral Health Field for Substance Abuse in many different areas (Inpatient/Outpatient settings, Adult and Adolescent counseling). I am currently married to Linda. We have been together since 1988 but married since 1995. I have three grown children (adults now) from a previous marriage; Gregory, Pamela and Heather. They each have 2, 3 and 2 children of their own respectively. I have worked for the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians since 1992 with a one time break in service in 2003. I am truly honored to serve as a member of the Tribal Council and look forward to being of service to the nation of The Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians.  Please feel free to call or visit me.

Chi-Miigwetch, 
George M. Antoine

Phone Number: 231.534.7354

Phone Number: 231.534.7361