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Suquamish News
Suquamish.nsn.us
December 2021 | 1
Suquamish News Volume 21
December 2021
No. 12
Chief Seattle Days 2021
Happy Holidays From the Suquamish Tribe! In this issue: Holiday Happenings -- p4-5 Kitsap Strong -- p7 Reduce Holiday Stress -- p14 New Health Clinic takes shape — p3
Chairman at White House Summit — 9
Tribe's oldest Elder turns 95 — p14
2 | December 2021
Community Calendar
Suquamish News
Suquamish.nsn.us
Events & Meetings
Contact
Holiday Events
Suquamish Tribal Council Tribal Council meets Dec. 6 & 13. Links are sent to Tribal members via SUN.
Government Offices Communications: (360) 394-7184/7102 Community Dev: (360) 394-8415 Community Health: (360) 394-8468/8594 Emergency Management: (360) 394-8507 Emergency Work Orders: (360) 900-7050 Emergency Utilities: (360) 710-3223 Finance: (360) 394-8432 Fisheries: (360) 394-8438 Health Benefits: (360) 394-8424 Human Resources: (360) 394-8409 Human Services: (360) 394-8465 IT Help Desk: (360) 394-8485 Maintenance: (360) 394-8590 Tribal Child Welfare: (360) 394-8480 Tribal Court: (360) 394-8697
Dec. 2: Suquamish Holiday Cheer Lights walking tour and scavenger hunt begins.
Suquamish Warriors Suquamish Warriors meetings are on 1st Tuesdays @ 5:30pm at Suquamish Warriors Vet Center. For information, contact Jean Belmont at (360) 601-7918. PME Board Meetings are online and in person on Dec. 2 & 16 @ 9am. Contact Emily Sato, emilysato@clearwatercasino.com (360) 598-8703. Suquamish Tribal Gaming Comm. Meets online Dec. 2 & 16. Contact Angela Brainerd at (360) 394-8652 Suquamish Seafoods Board Meets online Dec. 7 @ 1pm. Seafoods Retail is open Thurs-Sun. Contact Shanel Carlson at (360) 394-8512 for details. Suquamish Museum Board Meets Dec. 9 @ 11am at Kiana Lodge. Contact Janet Smoak at (360) 394-8499. Museum closed for the day for holiday celebration after meeting.
Dec 14-16: Winter weaving for families at Family & Friends Center, 5pm-7pm. Space is limited, please sign up Dec 16: Holiday activity distribution, 10am-1pm for Suquamish Tribal families. Look for SUN text with details Dec. 21: Families are invited to join an evening with a Suquamish storyteller at Family & Friends Center, 6-8pm. Space is limited.
Suquamish Elders Contact: Della Crowell (360) 394-8417 Donna Sigo (360) 394-8472
Dec. 24 - Jan. 3: Tribal Government closed for holidays
Suquamish Police Dept Mon-Fri, 8am–4:30pm Front Desk: (360) 598-4334 Emergency: 911 Wellness Center Front desk: (360) 394-8558 Crisis Hotline: (888) 910-0416
Suquamish News •
Published monthly by the Suquamish Tribe: 18490 Suquamish Way, Suquamish, WA 98392
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Email us at: communications@suquamish.nsn.us
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Send letters to: Suquamish News Editor, PO Box 498, Suquamish, WA 98392-0498
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Letters should include the writer’s full name, address, and home telephone and may be edited for clarity and space.
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Dec 6-10: Holiday crafting week at Family & Friends Center, after school until 6pm.
All photo submissions must be made in JPG or PDF form, with resolution of 300 dpi or more.
See page 4 for more details
On the cover...
In this throwback photo from before the COVID-19 pandemic, we remember what we are grateful for and what we can look forward to. Happy Holidays from the Suquamish Tribe, may these days be filled with joy and may the New Year bring health and happiness. (Photo by Sarah van Gelder)
Suquamish Tribal Council Leonard Forsman
Chairman
Wayne George
Vice-Chair
Windy Anderson
Secretary
Robin L.W. Sigo
Treasurer
Rich Purser
Member
Sammy Mabe
Member
Luther Mills, Jr.
Member
Reproduction of Suquamish News, in whole or in part, without written permission from the Suquamish Tribe is strictly prohibited.
Production Staff Leonard Forsman Sarah van Gelder Jon Anderson JoAnn Joe Heather Purser
Editorial Policy
Editor-in-Chief Managing Editor News Editor Photography/Design Communications Associate
Publishers of the Suquamish News reserve the right to refuse publication of letters to the editor and guest editorials. Submission of editorials and letters is encouraged. However, they represent the opinion of the author and not necessarily that of the Suquamish Tribe. As such, we reserve the right to refuse to print any letter, for any reason.
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Suquamish News
December 2021 | 3
Community
Suquamish Tribe set to open new ‘Healing House’ health clinic
Suquamish Tribe's Health Clinic Director Stephen Kutz looks on as the first module of the new Healing House clinic is moved into place. (Photo by Jon Anderson)
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he Suquamish Tribe completed primary construction of its new health clinic Nov. 3 with the installation of six prefabricated modules that will create the 4,116-square-foot facility. The new clinic, will be called Healing House, h ə l i ʔ i l a l ʔ t x ʷ, and is expected to open its doors to clients in early 2022. “A health clinic on our reservation has been a longtime vision for the Suquamish Tribe,” said Tribal Council member Robin L.W. Sigo. “Our successful handling of the ongoing pandemic reminded us that we are best at serving our Tribe, and we moved the clinic to the top of our capital projects list.” “We are excited to welcome Stephen Kutz, with his wealth of knowledge and expertise in Indian Country healthcare, to lead the development of the clinic,” she added. Kutz, who was hired by the Tribe in August to help stand up the clinic, says staffing is now the top priority.
Staffing clinic now priority “Building a new facility is no small matter,” he said. “But the real challenge will be finding the right mix of top-notch health care providers who will turn this building into one of the best health clinics in the area,” says Kutz. Indeed, hiring physicians, nurse practitioners, nurses, medical assistants, receptionists, billers, and coders won’t be easy at a time when health care professionals are in high demand. But serving at the Tribe’s new clinic will be a rare opportunity for the right providers. “This is a chance to be part of a clinic from the beginning, to help it form. It will be a place where you can grow as the clinic grows,” says Kutz. “And health care providers can expect something that isn’t always available – time to get to know their clients.” Kutz joins the Suquamish Tribe as Health Director after directing the
Health and Human Services Department of his own Tribe, the Cowlitz Tribe. Before that he was the director of the Mason County Health Department. All that came after serving for 20 years as a nurse in the U.S. Army, retiring as a Lt. Colonel. Healing House clinic will serve Suquamish Tribal members as its first priority, but the facility will also eventually open to other members of the community, says Kutz. Unique approach The clinic’s approach to care will build on the hospitality and traditions the Suquamish people are known for. Family medicine, with a focus on prevention, nutrition, plus an atmosphere infused with tradition and culture will offer healthcare designed for physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. “We’ll be treating the family, from Elders to newborns, honoring the
people where they are,” Kutz says. “That means allowing Indian people to receive the health care they deserve.” Providing prevention and treatment for the whole community will be a core focus, he says. That means enhancing the things that make people feel well and healthy, and contribute to resilience – things that build on the community’s strengths like the annual intertribal Canoe Journey and other cultural gatherings, as well as traditional foods and medicines. There will be time for health care providers to get to know their patients and to fully understand their medical conditions. Each patient will be known to health care providers as a member of a family and community. “We care about the community that we are serving,” Kutz says. “We’re going to hire people who see this as more than just a job -- people who care about the people they are taking care of.” Working at Healing House Anyone interested in applying for a position at the Healing House can go to the Tribe’s Careers webpage (under the “Contact Us” tab at Suquamish. nsn.us) to see new postings, job descriptions, and a link to apply online. By Sarah van Gelder
Point your phone's camera at the QR code to watch a video of the new clinic under construction.
4 | December 2021
Suquamish News
Holiday Happenings
Suquamish “Winter Cheer Lights” walking tour begins Dec. 2 Let’s open up the dark winter days with some bright Winter Cheer! Beginning Dec. 2, Suquamish area families can enjoy the Winter Cheer Lights walking tour and scavenger hunt starting at the Suquamish Museum. While you’re there, remember Tribal member households get 30% off purchases at the Leota Anthony Gift Shop for last-minute shopping from Dec. 17-23. Friends of the Museum and Tribal Government employees receive 25% off.
From the Museum, make your way down to Legacy Park where the whole family can participate in a scavenger hunt. Look for more information on the scavenger hunt online at the Suquamish Foundation Facebook page. From Legacy Park, the lights will take you all the way to the Suquamish Veterans Memorial and a beautiful view of the water. Please join us starting Dec 2! By Angela Flemming
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Suquamish News
December 2021 | 5
Suquamish News
6 | December 2021
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Community
Suquamish Veterans Honored The Suquamish Tribe’s Human Services Department and volunteers honored tribal community veterans on Veterans Day, Nov 11, with “grab-and-go” gift bags at the Tribe’s Government Center. A memory board of deceased Suquamish veterans was on display. Veterans Program coordinator Lavada Anderson thanked the veterans for their service, handing each a Suquamish Warriors coin, and other gifts.
Photos by Jon Anderson
Youth Basketball Leagues Set to Start This year, Suquamish Sports and Recreation will be sponsoring teams in the Pee Wee and Poulsbo Parks youth basketball leagues. Poulsbo Parks and Recreation teams will begin in December. 6th-8th Grade Girls will begin their games on Dec. 5. Games will be played on Sundays. Games for 7th & 8th Grade Boys and 2nd & 3rd Grade Girls will begin in January and run through March. These games will be played on Saturdays. Pee Wee Association Teams will be for boys 10 and under, and girls 10 and under. Youth who turned 11 years old after Aug. 31 are eligible to play. The Pee Wee season games will be played during the weekdays, and the season will begin in January and end in March. For more information and to register, please contact Craig Miller, Craigmiller@suquamish.nsn.us, Magdalena Turrieta, mturrieta@suquamish.nsn.us, or We-laka Chiquiti Jr., wchiquiti@suquamish.nsn.us in the Sports and Recreation Department.
Tribal members needed for Suquamish boards The Suquamish Tribal Council is seeking applications from Tribal members for appointment to positions on Executive Boards and Commissions that expire at the end of this year. Appointments are for three-year terms. Board members are paid stipends as allowed by charter or ordinance. Positions are available on: • PME Board
• Higher Education Board
• Tribal Gaming Commission
• Suquamish Museum Board
• Suquamish Seafoods Board
• Culture Committee
• Housing Board
• TCW Advisory Committee
• Enrollment Committee
• Suquamish Foundation
Look for details on how to apply in the Suquamish Weekly Update email and the Tribe’s website.
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Suquamish News
December 2021 | 7
Suquamish Tribe extends investment in Kitsap Strong Suquamish Foundation to provide $150K in grants over three years
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hen a child suffers through a horrible experience, it increases their chances of suffering more as an
adult. Studies show these “Adverse Childhood Experiences,” or ACEs for short, are directly linked to chronic health problems, mental illness, and substance use problems among adults, and can also impact education, job opportunities, and earning potential. “The good news is that ACEs can be prevented,” says Kitsap Strong Executive Director Kody Russell. And those who have been affected by ACEs can build
resiliency and find healing. Indeed, when organizations and agencies provide services with a more traumainformed approach, they are better able to help those who have been affected by ACEs. That’s why in 2013 the Suquamish Tribe helped create Kitsap Strong, dedicated to help incubate that kind of understanding throughout the area. And the success Kitsap Strong has seen in the years since, not only in building awareness but also providing practical tools to multiply it, is why the Tribe has decided to extend that support for another three years.
The Tribe’s philanthropy arm, the Suquamish Foundation, will provide $50,000 per year, through 2024. “Come forth laughing is an important ancestral value for the Suquamish People; it reminds us to experience and share joy whenever we can,” says Suquamish Foundation Director Robin Little Wing Sigo, who is also the Suquamish Tribal Council Treasurer. “Modern science has finally caught up with what our ancestors taught us — intergenerational joy builds resilience and not only lessens the impact of traumas but can even prevent it. Being a founding member and funder of Kitsap Strong brings me joy because we all benefit from being a trauma-responsive community.” “The Tribe’s leadership and investment in Kitsap Strong has been critical. They’ve influenced the vision and mission of Kitsap Strong, and their approach to philanthropy and community investment has informed all our programs in the community,” said Russell. “We wouldn’t be where we are today without them.” Some recent accomplishments Kitsap Strong has helped facilitate: Handle with Care program — When first responders in Kitsap County encounter a child during a particularly intense call — say a fire or accident or a situation involving domestic violence — that child’s name is forwarded to their school along with three simple words: “Handle with Care.” The idea is to give teachers and staff a heads up that the child may be having a difficult time and to help them through it. Law Enforcement Trainings — A new 8-hour online training program, built in 30-minute segments, covers historical trauma, racism, and colonization and the impacts of those traumas on vulnerable populations. The training includes interviews with tribal elders and other leaders in the community. Law enforcement officers tell stories about using this information in their work. People who have been incarcerated share their experiences to help build understanding about how trauma contributed to their struggles. Community Investments — $325,000 has been invested in learning and relationships in 67 schools and organizations across Kitsap County. Meanwhile, Kitsap Strong has helped facilitate the relationships necessary for Peninsula Community Health Services to create seven schoolbased health clinics, mobile behavioral health, and dental units. Kitsap County staff are also now required to receive training in trauma-informed care. By Jon Anderson
8 | December 2021
Suquamish News
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Government
Chairman’s Report
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he election of Joseph Biden and Kamala Harris as our president and vice-president has resulted in an intense engagement with tribal governments across the United States. Increased consultation sessions by federal agencies, the appointment of the first American Indian Secretary of the Interior Deb Haaland, along with dozens of other tribal people to federal agency positions, and significant increases in funding to tribal programs and initiatives have been some of the major actions taken by the Biden-Harris administration. White House Tribal Nations Summit President Biden also reinstated the White House Tribal Nations Conference, renamed the White House Tribal Nations Summit, which was held on a virtual platform. The summit featured an appearance by President Biden, who announced several pro-tribal initiatives, including a commitment to protect treaty rights. The White House held a series of panels featuring federal officials and tribal leaders on Economic Development, Climate Change, COVID-19, Education and Native Languages, Public Safety, Treaty Rights and Sacred Lands, and Infrastructure and Energy. I had the honor of being one of three tribal leaders on the Climate Change panel with National Climate Advisor Gina
McCarthy and Council on Environmental Quality Chair Brenda Mallory. Vice President Kamala Harris wrapped up the Summit with a closing statement praising the new infrastructure bill and efforts to protect voting rights in Indian Country. Increasing Consultations Federal agencies continue to hold more consultation meetings including a meeting with Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Deputy Secretary Adrianne Todman, where I joined other tribal leaders to discuss tribal housing needs. We talked about the challenges of housing affordability for tribal homebuyers and the need to raise the income limits for low-income housing eligibility. The Department of Interior held a listening session on their discretionary grant programs intended to get input on making their funding more relevant to tribal needs. The White House Council on Environmental Quality held a meeting with tribal leaders to discuss federal efforts to conserve and restore at least 30 percent of U.S. lands and waters by 2030. Tribal leaders from the Northwest press hard on treaty rights protection during consultation sessions with the federal government. The Treaty Rights at Risk initiative,
initiated by the late Billy Frank, Jr., continues to be a priority as we engaged with the federal and state governments on the weakened state of our salmon runs. Navy Region Northwest held their annual Navy/Tribal Council meeting with tribal leaders on a virtual platform and primarily discussed their project plans for Subbase Bangor. Nurturing Regional Relationships Local and state government relations are vital to meeting our mission of protecting natural resources, providing quality healthcare, educational opportunities and developing our economy. I continue to serve as the co-chair of the West Sound Partnership for Ecosystem Recovery (WSPER) working with Kitsap and Pierce County governments to help restore our ecosystems. WSPER hosted a session before the Ecosystem Coordination Board, which advises the Puget Sound Partnership on its responsibilities, regarding some special projects. One of the presentations was made by Kitsap County regarding the closure of the shellfish beds at Chico. The closure appears to be caused by several pollution sources, including failing septic tanks and pet waste. The beach is scheduled to reopen in the summer. Governor Inslee held the annual Centennial Accord at Squaxin Island. The top tribal priorities were natural resource protection, climate change, and health care. We have been engaged in meetings with state legislators as we near the start of the next legislative session. I have met with State House Environment Committee Chair Joe Fitzgibbon on climate change, State Senate Education Committee Chair Lisa Wellman on education priorities, and State Senate Majority Leader Andy Billig on gaming and natural resource issues. Washington State Ferries held a meeting on the proposed replacement of the Fauntleroy ferry dock, which is within our usual accustomed fishing area. We are monitoring the project for impacts to treaty fishing rights. The Suquamish Tribe also works with non-profit groups to further our interests
and preserving our values. The Woodland Park Zoo invited tribal leaders and other elected officials to witness their dedication of a land acknowledgment announcement that will be played each morning upon opening of the zoo exhibit. The Zoo also commissioned outdoor tribal art within the park designed and produced by Roger Fernandez and Al Charles. I also met with the CEO of Islandwood, the facility on Bainbridge Island that provides environmental education to youth. They provided updates on their reopening process and future plans. Islandwood is seeking a tribal member to serve on their board of directors. Native Americans in Philanthropy (NAP) arranged for me to speak in front of a large virtual conference on the 30 x 30 initiative to preserve lands and waters of the United States. NAP is working with large foundations that are funding climate change initiatives to invest more into Indian Country. The Seattle chapter of YPO, an organization that brings young CEOs together for networking and training, hosted a panel of tribal leaders at the Burke Museum. I joined Loni Greninger of the Jamestown S’Klallam Tribe on the panel and we gave them a background on our respective tribal histories and culture. Leadership in Education The Suquamish Tribe provides great leadership in the field of Indian Education. Our tribal school, Chief Kitsap Academy, hosted a virtual meeting with Congresswoman Sharice Davids (HoChunk) (D-Kansas) to learn more about her journey to Congress. I was honored to welcome her to the presentation. Representatives from the Washington State University School of Medicine visited Suquamish to discuss their efforts to work with tribes and to recruit more native students to attend their institution. I was honored and humbled to be appointed to the University of Washington Board of Regents by Governor Inslee. Tribal leaders and educators have been (Cont. next page)
Suquamish News
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December 2021 | 9
LEGAL NOTICE FORCED SALE SUQUAMISH ALLOTMENT 302 Legal Notice is provided to Richard A. Clayton Jr. (Quinault), Charlotte E. Zahnle (Quinault) and Kenneth C. Lemieux Jr. (Quinault) of the Suquamish Tribe’s request under Section 205 of the Indian Land Consolidation Act, 25 U.S.C.§2204 (a) to purchase your undivided interests in Allotment 302. The Tribe owns over 50% of the allotment and under federal law this purchase does not require your consent. You do have the right to appeal the Bureau of Indian Affairs’ decision. Please contact Bill Holway, Trust Realty Officer, at 360-6893536.
(Cont. from previous page) advocating for a tribal regent at the U of W for many years, and I was taken aback when I was offered the position. I hope to be able to make the university more responsive and accountable to tribal interests. I was warmly welcomed by U of W President Ana Marie Cauce and Board of Regents Chair Blaine Tamaki. The first Board of Regents meeting was held at the university's Tacoma campus. We heard several budget presentations, faculty and student messages, and a proposal to reorganize the cancer program jointly managed by Fred Hutchinson and UW Medicine. I also received the Moderna COVID-19 vaccination booster shot. I encourage all of you, who are able, to receive this booster as we head into the winter and the potential that COVID-19 variants may surge. I wish everyone a happy and healthy holiday season. By Leonard Forsman Suquamish Tribe Chairman
Suquamish Tribe Chairman Leonard Forsman, far right, offers his thoughts on climate change impacts during the White House Tribal Nations Summit, held online Nov. 15-16, 2021.
Chairman Forsman Addresses White House Tribal Summit
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ribal leaders from around the United States joined top leaders from the Biden-Harris administration on Nov 15 and 16 to discuss wide ranging issues affecting tribal nations and nation-to-nation collaboration. Among the leaders who addressed the summit was Suquamish Chairman Leonard Forsman, who spoke on the urgency of responding to the climate crisis. “We are in a crisis situation with our salmon runs, and the rivers and streams that support them, due to warming waters and increasing development pressures as this area grows,” Forsman noted. “Our spiritual cousins, the Southern Resident killer whales, are also under threat.” “The Biden Administration should encourage federal agencies to be proactive,” he said. “Federal agencies can help the tribes encourage the private sector and local governments and state agencies to protect marine waters and rivers, and the sacred right to continue to harvest.” Forsman, who is also President of the
Affiliated Tribes of Northwest Indians, applauded the funding for fish barrier removal contained in the bi-partisan Infrastructure bill signed by President Biden this week and urged action on a plan to remove the Snake River Dams that are now blocking prime Chinook salmon habitat. The treaties signed by the Suquamish Tribe’s leader, Chief Seattle, and other regional tribes require the United States to protect the ecosystems that support salmon, shellfish, and other important treaty resources, Forsman pointed out. “We exchanged much of our aboriginal homelands for the opportunities to fish and hunt in our usual and accustomed areas,” he said. The United States has an obligation to protect those resources. “To be blunt, we’ve done a lot of this on our own. We’re looking to the United States to help us protect habitat and water quality as we address impacts of new development and construction. “As far as infrastructure is concerned,
there is also an ecological infrastructure, and it is important that the federal government partner with us in protecting rivers and streams.” As regards to climate change, we believe that the United States has an obligation to protect treaty rights to fish and hunt and gather. We’re willing to work on this and to take the political heat we sometimes have to take to be standing up and being a warrior to protect our waters and our ecosystems,” he said. “But we need the federal government to join us in that investment of money, time, and commitment as promised when Chief Seattle and other Tribal leaders signed the Treaty of Point Elliott on the waters of Mukilteo in 1855.” The summit featured addresses by President Joe Biden, Vice President Kamala Harris, Interior Secretary Deb Haaland, and other key cabinet officials, who listened to Tribal leaders and answered questions about administration priorities. By Sarah van Gelder
10 | December 2021
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Community
How Tribal officials decide to close dock during severe weather What to do when you receive an extreme weather alert
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n Nov 9 we received our first tornado warning alert for the Port Madison Indian Reservation. This particular kind of weather alert is something new for us. In fact, it’s only occurred twice in the last three years in Kitsap County. The first of those incidents resulted in over $2 million in damages. With climate change, this is something we will likely see with increasing frequency. We were lucky this most recent warning did not end with an actual tornado touching down. Still, it’s a good time to review what you need to do when a severe weather alert hits. Here are some tips to help you spring into action.
General Preparations • Pack an emergency supply that includes a flashlight, bottles of water, food, first aid kit, work gloves, extra batteries, and cash. If you are on any kind of prescriptions, have a week’s supply for yourself and family members. • Pick a safe room in your home where household members and pets may gather during a tornado. This should be a basement, storm cellar, or an interior room on the lowest floor with no windows. • Practice periodic emergency drills so that everyone is prepared • Prepare for high winds by removing diseased and damaged limbs from trees in your yard. Move or secure lawn furniture, trash cans, hanging plants, or anything else that can be picked up by the wind and become a projectile. • Register for the SUN alerts to get up-to-the minute info from the Tribe at https://suquamish.nsn.us/suquamish-updates-now What to Do During a Tornado • Go to your safe room or basement. Mobile homes are not safe during tornadoes or other severe winds. If you are able, go to the nearest sturdy building or shelter immediately. • Do not wait until you see the tornado; follow emergency instructions immediately. Listen to local news or a NOAA Weather Radio to stay informed. • If you are caught outdoors, seek shelter in a basement, shelter, or sturdy building. If you cannot quickly walk to a shelter, immediately get into a vehicle, buckle your seat belt, and try to drive to the closest sturdy shelter. If You are Driving If flying debris occurs while you are driving, pull over and park. Now you have the following options: • Stay in the car with the seatbelt on. Put your head down below the windows, covering your head with your hands and a blanket if possible. • If you can safely get noticeably lower than the level of the roadway, exit your car and lie in that area, covering your head with your hands. For more information and help getting prepared for emergencies, please go to our website at https://suquamish.nsn.us/home/departments/office-of-emergency-management/ or call the Office of Emergency Management at (360) 394-8507. By Cherrie May
The unpredictable and hazardous inclement weather season is upon us. The Suquamish Maintenance Department is responsible for protecting the integrity of the Suquamish Tribe Dock and making any necessary repairs when we experience impacts from the weather. The Suquamish Dock is an important part of the Tribe’s fishing and diving fleet. To help keep you informed on how we protect the infrastructure of the dock during hazardous weather conditions, I wanted to explain the procedures and protocols that we follow during temporary closure periods. It’s important we ensure the gangway is raised off the float so it’s not taking a beating from waves. The gangway sits in a small channel, and will raise and lower as tides come and go. During wind or storm events, this can cause the float/dock to engage in movement that can result in damage. Those repairs can be quite costly and could result in temporary closure of the dock. We want to limit the amount of funding and time spent making critical repairs. When the dock is required to be closed, I take into consideration diving and fishing impacts. I work closely with the Dive Coordinator, and we determine which course of action is best with the intention of minimal impacts. I also coordinate with the Communications Team to use our SUN updates system to inform fishers and other government or enterprise staff that may be impacted. Securing vessels at the Suquamish Dock is important to protecting boat owner property from damage risks, especially during hazardous weather conditions. Signs are posted at the dock entrance on shore that states our anchorage policy. There is no overnight moorage allowed at the Suquamish dock. In circumstances where an emergent situation leads to a temporary closure of the dock, we can experience challenges trying to locate boat owners. Please keep this in mind when utilizing the Suquamish Dock. I understand the importance of our dock for the Tribe’s historical access and connection to our waters. We are committed to maintaining the safety of this important resource for all. Please feel free to contact us at (360) 394-8590 if you have any questions. By Shawn Carper
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Suquamish News
Elder Housing Residents Enjoy New Flooring
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ver time, normal wear and tear happens in each housing unit that Suquamish Housing maintains and operates. That is why Community Development Director Scott Crowell has directed flooring upgrades for Elders’ units that have not been turned over in several years. Housing maintenance staff identified units, including one vacant unit, for trying out a new Aqualogic waterproof laminate flooring installed by Great Floors. The finished product is high quality, and the waterproof aspect is definitely something that has been needed in Elder’s housing as well as other units that are maintained and operated by Suquamish Housing. Once the vacant units flooring was completed, the decision was made to approach existing elder housing tenants with aging/wear and tear issues with their current flooring. Tribal Elder Linda Napoleon O’Connor’s unit was identified as the next unit to receive replacement flooring.
“I am extremely delighted with the flooring project and would like to point out how wonderful the Housing Maintenance staff are," said O’Connor. "Alan, Damian, EJ, Billy, and Marcus were there through the project, and if it weren’t for their help, I couldn’t have done it.” The project was roughly a two-week process, which required removal and storage of the entire contents of the home into a storage container on site. The old flooring was demolished and discarded, the appliances, and water features that connected to the floor had to be removed and reinstalled after the flooring was installed. By Lois “Lane” Sullivan
December 2021 | 11
Cold Weather Home Check Up Colder weather is here. Here are some maintenance tips to prepare your home, and help avoid high utility bills and costly repairs: • Clean your gutters, make sure downspouts are draining water away from your home’s foundation to ensure a dry crawl space. Recheck after every large windstorm. • Disconnect outside hoses and install hose bib cover, wrap water pipes beneath home. • Check windows and doors for air leaks, reinstall weather stripping and door sweeps as needed.
• Clean your heating devices, replace furnace filters, adjust thermostats as necessary. • Switch the direction of ceiling fan to ensure proper air flow / heat distribution. • Have your chimney cleaned, inspected, and re-certified prior to your first fire. • Check your smoke detector batteries and fire extinguisher, replace them if needed. • Clean dryer hose and clear lint. By Lois “Lane” Sullivan
Seeking Tribal Member Input on Upcoming Distributions and New Adult Healing of the Canoe Program As the Suquamish Tribe continues with drive-thru distributions, we would like to better understand dates, times, and distribution items that work best for you and your family. Please point your phone’s camera at this code to fill out a quick survey to help us improve future tribal distributions.
Healing of the Canoe is working on an adult version of the Youth Curriculum. This survey will help us better understand what adults in the Tribe want to see included. Please point your phone’s camera at this code to fill out a quick survey to help us better expand this program.
Suquamish News
12 | December 2021
Elders’ Lunch Menu December 2021 Mon
Tue
Beverages Served Daily: Choice of 1% Milk or Lactose Free Milk
Occasional substitutions may be necessary
Wed
Suquamish.nsn.us
Elders’ Kitchen: 360-394-8407 Please call to inform the kitchen if you would like to cancel home delivery for the day.
Thu
1 Tuna Noodle Casserole Germany Veggie Blend Kale Salad Corn Bread Fresh Fruit
2 Meatloaf Mashed Potatoes w/
Fri
3 Geoduck Chowder w/ Oyster Crackers Gravy Tossed Salad w/ Hard California Veggie Blend Boiled Eggs & SunSpinach-Blueberry flower Seeds Salad Oat Bran Raisin Muffin Yogurt Parfait w/ Berries Wheat Roll & Granola Fresh Fruit
6 Birthday Celebration Goulash (Ground beef, tomatoes, green beans) Brown Rice Apple-Carrot Salad Wheat Roll Birthday Cake & Ice Cream
7 Split Pea Soup w/ Ham Turkey & Cheese Sandwich Broccoli Salad Fresh Fruit
8 Pork Stir Fry w/ Green Beans, Onions, & Mushrooms Brown Rice Tossed Salad Fresh Fruit
9 BBQ Chicken Pasta Salad Capri Veggie Blend Waldorf Salad Pumpkin Cookie
10 Ham Hocks w/ Beans Brown or White Rice Steamed Kale Tossed Salad Pachado Bread Cottage Cheese & Peaches
13 Baked Fish Sweet Potatoes Germany Veggie Blend Spinach Salad w/ berries & walnuts Corn Bread Fresh Fruit
14 Beef, Barley & Vegetable Soup Tuna Sandwich Cucumber-Tomato Salad Fresh Fruit
15 Baked Ham Baked Winter Squash California Blend Vegetables Blueberry Bran Muffin Applesauce
16 Breakfast for Lunch Egg, Vegetable, & Cheese Frittata Oven Roasted Potatoes Oat Bran Muffin Fresh Fruit
17 Salmon Oven Roasted Potatoes Mixed Vegetables Coleslaw Pachado Bread Italian Ice
20 Chicken Adobo Brown Rice Asian Blend Veggies Apple, Celery & Pineapple Salad Fresh Fruit
21 Macaroni-Beef Casserole Brussels Sprouts Tossed Salad Corn Bread Fresh Fruit
22 Christmas Dinner Turkey with Cranberry Sauce Mashed Potatoes & Gravy Broccoli Tossed Salad Wheat Roll Sugar Free Apple Pie
23 Tomato Soup Egg Salad Sandwich Fresh Vegetable Platter Fresh Fruit
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Closed Winter Holiday Elders’ Kitchen Will Reopen on Tuesday, January 4, 2022
Closed Winter Holiday
Elders’ Corner We wish Tony Snorteland a happy milestone birthday. If we missed someone this year since we started these announcements, we send you belated wishes for good health and happiness. 2021 is coming to an end, can you believe it? The time has flown by even with COVID-19. Most of us have gotten all of our shots including our boosters. We encourage everyone to get vaccinated, we need to beat this and return to a somewhat normal life style. Elder Robert George turned 95 year old and we brought him balloons and serenaded him with the Birthday song. Bob asked us to come back. I guess he liked our singing. We had visitors from Salem Oregon, Robert Adams and his partner Dean Sabastian. We gave them a tour of Suquamish (Kiana Lodge and Elders Lodge) it was just too wet to visit Jeff Head. Rob gifted us 2 beautiful calendars of photos, he personally took of irises and sceneries of Oregon. We are blessed. During November we had another Cedar Hat Making class with own Master Suquamish weaver, Denita Holmes. We are so proud of our Elders who completed their hats; Ardy Longway, Joanie Mills, Barbara (Cont. next page)
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Lawrence and Marilyn Wandery. Denita also sponsored 2 Cedar Project classes on Wednesdays from 4-7 pm. We made Christmas ornaments – a Christmas Ball or a Reindeer. Due to COVID-19, we could only have a limited amount participants for these classes. Thank You for your understanding. We will have classes again, in January 2022. Our hands are up to Denita for sharing her skill of weaving. Happy Turkey Day - Tribal offices will be CLOSED Thursday, Nov. 25 and Friday, Nov 26. If you run into any medical issues, please call 911 or your family physician or Urgent Care. We hope everyone will lend a hand in need, during this time. Families please remember your Elders. For the month of December there is NO Foot Care due to the Christmas closure. Mark this event on your calendars, we are having our drive-thru Christmas Dinner and gift bag on December 22, 2021. As always, we offer prayers and support to those in need. Please mask up when out and about. Keep our community safe and healthy! By Della Crowell & Donna Sigo
Bob George, Oldest Suquamish Elder, Turns 95
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he Suquamish Tribe’s oldest member, Bob George, turned 95 on October 26. Bob is the eighth child of 10 of Martha and Bennie George, and the only one of that group still living. He is the father of five, including Raymond, Bradley, and Georgia, and Bobbie and Marlin, who both passed. He is also grandfather of five, great-grandfather of 19, and has four great-great-grandkids. Because of COVID, his birthday celebration was limited to a small number of family members, according to his daughter, Georgia George, who often thinks about the many things her father experienced over those decades. Many people know Bob George for his practice of reciting Chief Seattle’s speech during the annual Chief Seattle Days gravesite celebration. “He wants people to remember the
words of our tribal leaders, and to understand the importance of tribal lands,” Georgia says. “It is important that we carry ourselves with pride and love throughout the years we have walking this earth and do the best we can.”
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“Bob sees Chief Seattle’s words as a warning to all of humanity,” she said. “If we don’t treat Mother Nature right, we face all sorts of problems. Ours is not to consumer or destroy Mother Earth but to live comfortably here and pass along more than just our consumption and comfort to future generations. Bob George is an Army veteran and worked for many years for the U.S. government, including stints at the Bangor Submarine base and at Indian Island. “He used to joke that he was the only Indian on Indian Island,” Georgia recalled with a laugh. He was a carpenter, who built his own house, and he loved baseball. Because his father, Bennie George, was enrolled S’Klallam and his mother, Martha George was Suquamish, he could have enrolled in either Tribe. He enrolled Suquamish, she noted, and he played baseball with the Suquamish team. He was very proud that his uncle, Louis George, was on the famous baseball team that toured Japan.
Traditional Heritage Specialist News Welcome to the end of 2021. This year has been full of many changes: COVID vaccinations, openings of businesses and schools, regulations of gatherings, and so much more. We are getting ready for the coldest times and the wettest times of the year. Please keep a check on your neighbors, Elders, and pets. Make sure you have batteries, water, and lots of extra food in case of power outages. When the weather is bad, stay warm, indoors, and safe. Do not go out unless you need to, and make sure you have snow tires or chains on you vehicle. I am going to work from home when the colder weather hits as I do not want to take any chances of falling or slipping on ice. I am planning to stay in, and stay safe and warm. This is the perfect time to work
on transcribing and reading up on Tribal history. If you wish to share stories or special thoughts with me that I can place into the archives someday, contact me at mjones@suquamish. nsn.us or (360) 340–0206, my work cell number. I would love to connect with you anytime. Topics can be anything you wish to share, school days, cooking, vacations, growing up in Suquamish or Indianola or where ever you lived, hunting, fishing, etc. I would love to record them for you. If you are able to send pictures, that would be great! I will do my best to set up a time when we can talk in person or on the phone. I have historic pictures, and I am going to work on getting the people and places identified. Then hopefully I’ll be able share
some of them with all of you here in the newsletter. I also have photos from my trips and a short story with each one. I have over a hundred just from when I went to Japan with the Burke Museum and visited with the people there. Ten cities in ten days – what a great trip and wonderful time! This trip took place just before I moved from the Suquamish Museum to the Fisheries Department. We are closed from Dec. 24 through the New Year, so I will be back in the office on Jan. 3, 2022 to greet the workweek and start the year off right. I hope everyone has a Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, and a safe and Happy New Year! By Marilyn Jones
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Holiday Festivities in a Time of COVID 11 tips to reduce stress and boost wellbeing
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he holidays are right around the corner. A season that is normally an important time for family and friends to come together to share and promote tradition has been complicated by the realities of COVID-19 and the onset of the flu season. Because many generations tend to gather to celebrate holidays, the best way to minimize COVID-19 and flu risk and keep your family and friends safer, is to get vaccinated, including child vaccines and boosters, according to the CDC’s 2021 holiday guidance. Avoid crowded, poorly ventilated spaces. Properly wearing well-fitting face masks during large social gatherings is still very much encouraged. What else can we do to ensure an intentional, meaningful holiday season? Here's 11 Tips to Reduce Holiday Stress: 1. Revisit expectations and keep them balanced. You might not get everything you want, and things might go wrong. Remember everything doesn’t have to be perfect to have a meaningful holiday. Worry and guilt about things out of your control can increase emotional pain and reduce enjoyment of the season. 2. Chronic pain and illness limit what and how much you can do, so think ahead and be realistic with yourself and others about how much you can manage. Fatigue, over scheduling, and taking on too many tasks can worsen physical symptoms and dampen your spirits. Learn to say no, delegate as much as possible, and manage your time wisely. If you choose to do less, you will have more energy to enjoy what you decide is the most important part of the season — this could be simply spending time with friends and family.
3. Meaningful connection is important. If you’re feeling left out, then get out of the house and find some way to join in. There are hundreds of places you can go to hear music or enjoy the sights. Giving back to others is a terrific way of minimizing your own problems and you will help those less fortunate. 4. Keep spending within the resources you have. Create a reasonable budget and stick to it. Remember it’s not about the presents, it’s about the presence. 5. It’s appropriate to mourn if you’re separated from or have lost loved ones. Consider how you might honor their memory. If they were here, what would they like you to be doing? Share your memories, thoughts and emotions with others who also loved those who are no longer here. Remember, grief shared cuts it in half; joy shared, doubles. 6. Many people suffer depression due to a lack of sunlight because of shorter days and bad weather. Walking in the middle of the day can lessen SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder). 7. Watch your diet and remember to exercise. Be aware of how certain foods affect your mood. If you eat foods high in fat and sugar, or drink alcohol, you will have less energy, which can make you feel more stressed and run down. It can be very helpful to take a walk before and/or after a big holiday meal. Ask someone to join you!
8. Be aware of the “post-holiday syndrome.” When all the hustle and bustle suddenly stops and you must get back to the daily grind, it can be a real let down. Ease out of all the fun by planning a rest day toward the end of the season. 9. Plan ahead. To avoid unnecessary stress, many people don’t go to the mall the day after Thanksgiving. Think ahead of what adds to your stress level and avoid them. Decide on a few things that are truly meaningful to you and organize your time in advance to fit these intentional things into your schedule. 10. Learn and practice forgiveness, acceptance, and boundaries. Some people will accept your communicated limitations and needs, some will not. If some of your relatives or friends have always acted out or made you feel bad, chances are that won’t change. If you know what you’re getting into, it will be easier to not let them push your buttons. If things get uncomfortable, plan ahead with an alternative: go home or for a drive and, most importantly, adjust your attitude and thoughts. 11. DO remember to breathe, meditate, pray, practice gratitude, and enjoy alone some peaceful moments of mindful silence to renew your spirit and body. May the holidays bring you all the love and joy they can, and may the true meaning of the season touch your heart. By Lori Glover, LICSW, LMHC
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Birthdays
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December 1 Cameron Lawrence Cassady Hill Jeffrey Carriere Katelyn Carper Meadow Sigo-Carr Mya Smith Zane Peterson December 2 Foster Jones Heather West Koebyn Purser Troy Ayres
December 7 Carroll Crowell Carter Rhodes Dylan Amick Sandra Power Tamara Thomas Trentin Moss December 8 Breezy Webster Eliza Kegel Wahim Williams Jr. December 9 Andria Golden Kristina Simons Mary Webster
December 3 Ana Edelstein Grace Alexander Susan Parkhurst
December 10 Deantre Rubeck Jess Eddleman Sienna Oswalt
December 5 Cheyenne Colomb Haylie Mabe John Villanueva Lewis Bayne Mary Lindell Sammy Mabe Victoria Smith
December 11 Garnet Mabe December 12 Adelyn Oswalt Alicia Yates Celeste Loneia Colleen O'Brien
December 6 Guadalupe O'Brien Patricia Chargualaf Tiana Lawrence
December 13 Connor Valois Jeddadiah Adams Shaunie Cordero
December 14 Olivia Ferrara December 15 Joshua Timmerman Rebecca George December 16 Danielle Morsette Jason McClurg-Santos Martin Talmadge Mellissa Pondelick December 17 Sierra Sorensen December 18 David Sigo Jr. Felician Belmont December 19 Ashley McNew Chandra Nease Logan Mabe Pierre Perrot Trey Kumpf December 20 Donald Jones Nicholas Alexander December 21 Arthur Brown December 22 Delmont Ostenberg James Mabe Nancy Martinez Richard Purser We-Laka Chiquiti Jr.
December 23 Agnes Pratt Julia Hommel Tony Snorteland December 24 Azeneth Solano-Sigo James Cordero James Suarez Lisa Jackson December 25 Kyle Dozier Nancy Sigo Toni Smith December 27 Amiria Lawrence Anisssa Ostenberg Hadley Simons Jackson Purser Patricia Blomberg Tyee Lawrence December 28 Lincoln Lawrence December 29 Amber Boure Carsyn Maloney Daniece Williams December 30 Charissa Sigo Jacquelyn Cheek Linda O'Connor Desean Santos Jerry Porter Randy George Victoria Welch Wayne George
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Suquamish Tribe is Hiring! To find current career opportunities with the Suquamish Tribe, please check out the regularly updated job posting on the Tribe's website at:
www.suquamish.nsn.us/careers For more information call the Job Hotline at: 360-394- 8414
Kent, WA Permit No. 71