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Suquamish News Volume 15
December 2015
Cousteau In Suquamish In this issue...
Youth Carvers pg. 2
No. 12
Grandson of famed explorer interviews youth and elders for documentary
Mentor Program pg. 5
Suquamish Basketball pg. 7
2 | December 2015
Community Calendar
Events
Lushootseed Family Classes Dec 1, 8, 15 & 22 5pm Share a meal with community members while learning words and phrases in Lushootseed. Contact Lushootseed Language Coordinator Lena Maloney with questions or comments at (360) 394-8644 or email lmaloney@suquamish.nsn.us. GED Classes Dec 2, 7, 9, 14, 16, 21 & 23 3pm Individualized instruction to prepare students for the GED is offered Mondays & Wednesdays 3pm – 5pm through Kitsap Adult Center for Education. New students may sign up 3pm – 4pm on Mondays & Wednesdays. Classes are held at the Suquamish Tribal Education Center, 15838 Sandy Hook Road, Poulsbo, WA 98370. To register, or for further information, please call Ann Rudnicki at 360-373-1539. Suquamish Holiday Bazaar Dec 5-6 10am-4pm Suquamish Community members are encouraged to attend the Suquamish Holiday Bazaar with inique gifts by local artists. Free and open to the public at the House of Awakened Culture, 7235 NE Parkway, Suquamish, WA 98392. Contact Tina Jackson for more information at (360) 3948455 or tjackson@suquamish.nsn.us. Suquamish Museum Artists Fair & Tree Lighting Dec 5 Visit at 10:30am to view and purchase works by local Tribal Artists in the Audi-
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torium and Lobby. Stay to light the holiday Suquamish Seafoods Building on Sandy season at 6pm. Visit suquamishmuseum. Hook Road. Meetings are open to Suquaorg for details. mish tribal members. For more information contact Jessica Ledesma (360) 394-8512 or Suquamish Community Holiday Party jledesma@suquamish.nsn.us. Dec 17 5pm Suquamish Tribal members and Tribal Suquamish Elders Council Meeting households are encouraged to attend. At Dec 3 Noon the House of Awakened Culture in Down- The Suquamish Tribal Elders Council meets town Suquamish. For more information the first Thursday of every month in the Elcontact Clay Williams at (360) 394-8412 ders Dining Room at noon. For more inforor kwilliams@suquamish.nsn.us. mation contact Barbara Lawrence-Piecuch at blawrence@suquamish.nsn.us. Holiday Closures Dec 25-Jan 3 All Tribal Government offices will be Tribal Council Meeting closed. For school closures, including Dec 7 & 14 8:30am CKA and ELC, see the calendar on pg. 4. Suquamish Tribal Council meetings generally occur every other Monday. Meetings are in the Suquamish Tribal Council Chambers at 18490 Suquamish Way NE, SuquaSuquamish Warriors mish WA, 98392 and are open to SuquaDec 1 5:30pm mish tribal members and employees of the The regular meeting for Suquamish War- Suquamish Tribe. Special reports and guest riors usually occurs the first Tuesday of speaker presentations are open to tribal every month. All veterans and their guests members only and key staff. For more inforare welcome at the Suquamish Warrior Vet- mation about meetings, contact Windy Anerans Center, 6353 Middle Street, Suqua- derson at wanderson@suquamish.nsn.us. mish WA, 98392. For more information BUDGET NOTE- The final draft of the contact the Veterans Center Office at (360) 2016 Tribal Government Budget will be 626-1080. The Veterans Center is also open presented during the Dec. 7 meeting. every Monday 9am-3pm for Veteran visiting and Thursdays for service officer work PME Board of Directors Meeting 9am-3pm. Dec 9 9am in the Chico Room The Port Madison Enterprises (PME) Suquamish Seafood Board Meeting Board of Directors usually meet every othDec 2 & 16 10am er week. Meetings are open to Suquamish The Suquamish Seafood Board of Directors tribal members and invited guests. For meet every other Wednesday of the month, more information, contact Jordan Sheets at when Tribal Council is not in session, at the jordansheets@clearwatercasino.com.
Meetings
Suquamish News •
Published Monthly by the Suquamish Tribe: 18490 Suquamish Way, Suquamish, WA 98392
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Our email address is aleigh@suquamish.nsn.us
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Send letters to: Suquamish Newsletter Editor, PO Box 498, Suquamish, Washington 98392-0498
Suquamish Tribal Council
Leonard Forsman Chairman
Wayne George
Nigel Lawrence
Robin Sigo
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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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All photo submissions must be made in electronic JPG or PDF form, with resolution 300dpi or more.
Vice-chair Secretary Treasurer
Rich Purser
Member
Sammy Mabe
Member
Luther Mills, Jr
Member
Museum Board Meeting Dec 10 The Suquamish Museum Board meets monthly and is open to Suquamish Tribal Members. For more information, call the Suquamish Museum (360)394-8499. CKA School Board Meeting Dec 14 4:30pm The CKA School Board will meet in the Tribal Council Chambers at the Administration Building on Suquamish Way, NE. For more information contact Tribal Council Executive Assistant Windy Anderson at (360) 394-8406 or wanderson@suquamish.nsn.us. Suquamish Tribal Gaming Commission Meetings Dec 17 10am The Suquamish Tribal Gaming Commission holds regular meetings every other Thursday. Meetings generally begin at 9am, at the Suquamish Tribal Gaming Offices on Augusta Avenue in Suquamish, WA. Meetings are open to Suquamish tribal members. For more information, contact Samantha Johnson at (360) 394-8652.
From the cover... Cover Photo: Philippe Cousteau, grandson of the famed Jacques Cousteau, was in Suquamish in November filming CKA’s Ocean to Table program where students learn traditional salmon smoking techniques for his Earth Echo initiative. For more information on Earth Echo, visit them online at www.earthecho.org.
Editors
Wayne George, Editor in Chief Leonard Forsman, Contributor April Leigh, Writer/Photographer/Layout/Distribution
Editorial Policy Publishers of the Suquamish Newsletter 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.
Reproduction of Suquamish News, whole or in part, without written permission from the Suquamish Tribe is strictly prohibited.
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Suquamish News
December 2015 | 3
News & Events
New Workspace for CKA Youth Carvers
Carving students at Chief Kitsap Academy have a new carport, installed nest to the carving shed, for work on large projects. Students and mentors recently used the space to begin work on a singles racing canoe. Carving Teacher Randi Purser said that students plan to finish their first canoe in the next 2-3 weeks.
Happy 89th Birthday Bob!
Bob George, right, recently celebrated his 89th birthday, making him the oldest living Suquamish Tribal Elder. He is pictured here with his brother Ted George, left, during his birthday celebration. Happy Birthday Bob! We wish you long life and happiness.
Tribal Child Welfare Committee News by Robin Sigo
Last March the Suquamish Tribal Council appointed a new committee to allow community input into the Tribal Child Welfare system here at Suquamish. As a member of the Tribal Council I serve as the liaison between the Council and the Suquamish Tribal Child Welfare Committee. Currently, three other tribal members serve on the Committee including Aggie Pratt, Cherrie May, and Cori Silvey. The Committee was formed by the Suquamish Tribal Council as part of a tribal child welfare reform project developed in response to community concerns and the Council’s commitment to the safety and wellness of all of its members and descendants: The Suquamish Tribe exercises its sovereignty over child welfare as a matter of policy through its Tribal Code, Tribal Court and Tribal Child Welfare Department and sees child abuse and neglect, especially related to substance abuse, untreated trauma, and poverty, as an ongoing threat to the wellbeing of tribal children, families, and general community health and wellness. Every program in the Tribe that supports families to ensure the safety of our children is part of the Suquamish child welfare system. Our Committee wants that system to be well coordinated and effective at helping families.
ognition that our community needed a place to give input into the operation of our Tribal Child Welfare system. This Committee will work towards improving Tribal Child Welfare services and decision making with a focus on child safety and services that help our families restore wellness when things go wrong. Our Committee’s goal is to help the Suquamish Tribe establish a child welfare system that keeps children safe by strengthening Tribal families. Down the road we want to see a greater focus on prevention and family strengths and fewer removals and out of home placements.
Our Committee has already completed some big tasks. We have completed a charter which spells out our own mission, vision and value statements, as well as the guidelines for our own committee meeting and decision making process. Our Committee has met at least monthly since our appointment and received training from the National Indian Child Welfare Association (NICWA) on how similar committees at other tribes operate. In the last month our Committee has worked closely with the new Suquamish Tribal Child Welfare (STCW, formerly known as ICW) director to make sure the roles of management and the Committee are clear and that the authority of the CommitThe formation of this Committee was a rec- tee is well defined. The Committee will not
discuss cases. It will set practice standards, provide input on the code, policies, procedures, and provide guidance on practice and care standards, for all programs that make up our child welfare system. In the future, we will move towards a greater emphasis on prevention and tribal-wide family strengthening to have fewer removals and out-ofhome placements. The STCW program has recently hired a new Director, Tara Reynon, who is a Puyallup Tribal Member and who directed the Child Welfare Program for her tribe for 12 years. Tara is a Masters level social worker who also teaches social work at the University of Washington, Tacoma Campus. In addition to Tara, a new STCW Program Manager has been hired, Alaina Capoeman. Alaina, a Quinault Tribal Member, comes to Suquamish after managing the foster care program at the Port Gamble S’Klallam Tribe. Both are highly skilled and experienced in tribal child welfare reform efforts. In addition to the work of the Committee the Suquamish Tribal Child Welfare Reform Initiative has accomplished some important goals in the last several months. The record keeping system at STCW has been enhanced with standards provided by NICWA. Our caseworkers have received training on us-
ing a safety model that focuses on keeping families together whenever safety is possible. NICWA has also provided the program with standards for court reports and helped management with new job descriptions for the leadership positions. We are addressing changes in the tribal code and development of policies and procedures. The Committee is ready and excited to guide this work and will be holding a series of community listening sessions to hear the concerns and ideas of the general community. We are discussing training events for the community as well as hosting an event to address the role of child welfare in historic trauma and the healing that needs to take place. As a Committee, we acknowledge the trauma that takes place with child removal and disrupting families. This means that our tribal child welfare system, which includes our STCW, court, police, Wellness, and many other programs that have to work together to strengthen families and keep children safe while we avoid causing new trauma. We look forward to the day when we can say that Suquamish has a state of the art tribal child welfare system and fewer children needing out-of-home care because our families are strong and healthy. With everyone’s help we can get there!
4 | December 2015
Suquamish News
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Education
Mentor Program Drums Up Youth Winter Activities
by Serene Williams
At Chief Kitsap Academy, students are paired with a mentor from the community. The program allows students to spend time with positive people, doing positive things and learning life skills. On November 13th, 11 students and mentors attended a drum making class. The next event for the program will be on December 11, when 10 high school students and their mentors will travel to I FLY Seattle (in door sky diving). The youth will participate in a STEM educational program offered at I FLY, before taking a turn in the wind tunnel. In addition to planned outings and workshops, students and mentors attend monthly lunches at the school. The year-long program is coordinated by Suquamish Library Staff. For more information contact Serene Williams at (360) From left; Koh-kai Williams and Clae Williams. 394-8691.
Important Dates Chief Kitsap Academy
Dec 14
Late Start/Professional Development
Dec 18
Early Release
Dec 19 - Jan 3
Winter Break
Early Learning Center
Dec 24
Early Release
Dec 25 - Jan 3
Winter Break
North Kitsap Schools
Dec 4
No School/Professional Develpment
Dec 5
NKSB Special Meeting 1:30pm
Dec 9 & 18
Early Release
Dec 19 - Jan 3
Winter Break
10 Tips To Strengthen Families Just like with any relationship, building a positive relationship between parent and child is one that requires work and effort to make it strong and successful. Parenting is a tough job, and maintaining close relationships and open communications helps to ensure parents and their children stay connected through all ages of their upbringing.
Say I Love You
Play with Your Children
Tell your child you love him every day -- no matter his age. Even on trying days or after a parent-child disagreement, when you don’t exactly “like your child” at that moment, it is more important than ever to express your love.
The key is to really play with your children. Play with dolls, ball, make believe, checkers, sing songs, or whatever is fun and interesting. It doesn’t matter what you play, just enjoy each other.
Teach Your Faith
Eat Meals as a Family
Establish a Special Name Or Code Word
Seek Out One-On-One Opportunities Often
Teach your child about your faith and beliefs. Tell him what you You’ve heard this before, and it really is important! Eating tobelieve and why. Allow time for your child to ask questions and gether sets the stage for conversation and sharing. Turn the TV answer them honestly. off, and don’t rush through a meal. Create a special name for your child that is positive and special or a secret code word that you can use between each other. Use the name as a simple reinforcement of your love. The code word can be established to have special meaning between your child and you that only you two understand. This code word can even be used to extract a child from an uncomfortable situation.
Develop and Maintain a Special Bedtime Ritual
Some parents have special nights or “standing dates” with their children to create that one-on-one opportunity. Whether it is a walk around the neighborhood, a special trip to a playground, or just a movie night with just the two of you, it is important to celebrate each child individually.
Respect Their Choices
For younger children, reading a favorite bedtime book or telling stories is a ritual that will be remembered most likely throughout their life. Older children should not be neglected either. Once children start reading, have them read a page, chapter, or short book to you.
You don’t have to like their mismatched shirt and shorts or love how a child has placed pictures in his room. However, it is important to respect those choices. Children reach out for independence at a young age, and parents can help to foster those decision-making skills by being supportive and even looking the other way on occasion.
Let Your Children Help You
Make Them a Priority in Your Life
Parents sometimes inadvertently miss out on opportunities to forge closer relationships by not allowing their child to help them with various tasks and chores. Unloading groceries after going to the store is a good example of something that children of most ages can and should assist with.
Your children need to know that you believe they are a priority in your life. Children can observe excessive stress and notice when they feel you are not paying them attention. Sometimes, part of being a parent is not worrying about the small stuff and enjoying your children.
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Winter Wellness
News from the Traditional Plants Program by Azure Boure’
The Traditional Plants Program has finished up our busy year of community plants as medicine and traditional foods classes. Julia and I would like to thank those who participated in our classes. We had such a great time seeing everyone get excited about the medicine they were learning to make and use! The Traditional Plants Program classes and activities will resume in Spring 2016. We would like to remind the community that wellness products from the Herbal Apothecary are available year round. The Apothecary is located in the Human Services Department; just inquire at the Human Services reception desk. We have brochures that list and explain the handcrafted products that we make available. Included in our bountiful assortment are teas, salves, Elderberry Syrup and Herbal Cough syrup to aid throughout the cold and flu season. These herbal wellness and body care products are available for Suquamish tribal members, Suquamish Tribal employees and Wellness clients. The Traditional Smokehouse project has broken ground and completed the first of five smokehouses to be built in the community. With much thanks to Rob Purser and his volunteer crew we have a beautiful new smokehouse on the grounds at Chief Kitsap Academy. We will be holding our first community salmon smoking class there in December. A second smokehouse will be built before the end of the year. Plans are also being made to create a lending system for community members to sign out canning equipment and vacuum sealers to package their finished products. The lending system will be in place late spring 2016. It has truly been a pleasure to work with our community through this program. We can’t wait to see what the next year holds for us. We wish everyone a happy, healthy and safe winter! Remember, if you have empty Elderberry or Cough Syrup bottles or salve tins please return these to the Human Services Department as we will gladly reuse or recycle them. Thank you!
Suquamish News
December 2015 | 5
Health & Wellness
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 that are 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 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.Bottom of Form 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 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 this type of depression called 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 have to 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 those times. Decide on a few things that are truly meaningful to you, organize your time in advance to fit these few things into your schedule. 10. Learn and practice forgiveness and acceptance. Some 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 an alternative; go to a movie or for a drive and most importantly, adjust your attitude and thoughts. 11. DO remember to breathe, meditate, pray, practice gratitude, and to enjoy alone some peaceful moments of mindful silence to renew your spirit and body.
Wellness Employee Spotlight: Sable Bruce by Lisa Rey Thomas
A recent addition to the Wellness Center, Sable Bruce is a Mental Health Counselor and Case Manager. Her experience includes working as a counselor and educator in schools and in her own practice. Sable has been supporting youth and families of diverse backgrounds for over 5 years. Sable sees counseling as an opportunity for clients to cultivate acceptance and to make the changes they want in their lives. She is Native Hawaiian, growing up on the island of O’ahu, and other islands across the Pacific. She has a deep appreciation for coastal life and culture. Some of her favorite activities include being active outdoors with her family and dog, cooking for friends, and travelling. Sable looks forward to serving the Suquamish Tribal community. Sable Bruce
6 | December 2015
Suquamish News
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Government
Chairman’s Report by Leonard Forsman
Public Outreach
fitness center staff for helping with the sign in and giveaway items. The new basketball gym is amazing and the workout facility is top notch. The Youth Center is a beautiful building that will serve our youth for generations to come. Thanks to the Tribal Department of Community Development staff, Tribal Administration, Korsmo Construction and ARC Architecture for the beautiful building, and many thanks to our building committee for all their valuable input.
I made two presentations as part of efforts to educate students about the culture, history and modern adaptation of the Suquamish Tribe. The Evergreen State College has a Master’s in Public Administration with a Tribal Governance Emphasis and provided an opportunity for me to discuss how our tribal government operates with their current class. Our own Chief Kitsap Academy has a government class that requested me to speak on our government-to-government relationships with neighboring jurisdictions We also had two annual events: the and our internal government operations as Halloween Party at CKA (original tribal well. center) and the Veterans Honoring at Kiana Lodge. The Halloween party was Tribal Events well attended and filled the old gym with The Suquamish Tribe celebrated the lots of little goblins. Great job by the Human opening of our new Fitness Center and Services staff once again with the party; Youth Center with a grand event. The there were many activities for the young new buildings are next to our baseball field on Early Learning Center campus. Many folks. The Suquamish Warriors did another thanks to the Youth Center staff and Youth amazing job with the annual luncheon and Council for arranging the ceremony, and our honoring of those who have served our
Executive Board Members Sought The Suquamish Tribal Council is seeking applications from Tribal Members for positions on several executive boards that are up for appointment in 2016. Position 2 on the Tribal Gaming Commission, currently held by Roger Contraro; Position 4 on the Seafood Enterprise Board currently held by Roger Contraro; Position 5 on the Housing Board currently held by Mable Anderson; Positions 1 and 2 on the Higher Education Board currently held by Kate Ahvakana and Charles Deam Jr.; Positions 3 and 4 on the Museum Board currently held by Francy Jackson and Pat Baillargeon; Positions 1 and 2 on the Enrollment Committee currently held by Windy Anderson and Lois Sullivan; and Positions 1 and 2 on the Port Madison Enterprises (PME) Board of Directors currently held by Angel Hill and Greg George. PME Board Members spend approximately 30 hours a month attending and preparing for Board activities including Board meetings. Board meetings typically take place on the Suquamish reservation during regular business hours. Attendance to regional and national conferences and/or trainings
may also be necessary. Terms are three years for all appointments. Board members are paid stipends as allowed by charter/ordinance. Submit letters of interest to Windy Anderson by mail at PO Box 498, Suquamish WA 98392, fax at 360-394-3686 or hand delivery to the Administration Front Desk at Suquamish Village. Letters of interest must be received by December 10, 2015. Tribal Members who signed up at the 2015 General Council meeting for these boards will automatically be submitted to Tribal Council for consideration.
country so selflessly. Thanks to Lavada Anderson for her work on organizing the event, Kiana Lodge for the hosting, and to Chuck, Pete and Ed for all their leadership. I also want to thank Congressman Derek Kilmer for making a special trip out to speak to our veterans at this year’s honoring.
Cultural Preservation and Activities The Snoqualmie Tribal Council and their Elders traveled to our resort for an overnight outing. They asked that our Song and Dance Group make a presentation for them before their dinner event. After sharing our songs with them, they gifted our singers and dancers with handmade items made in their own traditional manner. Snoqualmie Tribal Chairwoman Carolyn Lubeneau offered some kind words for us on behalf of their people. The Suquamish Burial Committee met to discuss repatriation of human remains from the Smithsonian Museum. We are preparing a letter to send making the formal request
for a respectful return of our ancestor.
Economic Development
Port Madison Enterprises (PME) and Port Madison Enterprise Construction Company (PMECC) presented their annual plan to the public during a luncheon at the resort. PME has no major construction projects planned in 2016 and will concentrate on interior improvements to the gaming floor and debt reduction. PMECC is looking to expand its trucking business and look for more federal government contract work. The Washington Indian Gaming Association (WIGA) held their monthly meeting at the Snoqualmie Casino. We received reports on the upcoming legislative session. There will likely be bills put forward regarding daily fantasy sports betting, which is now illegal in Washington. Tribal leaders are engaged in the discussion and are developing policy positions on this growing industry.
Enrollment Application Procedure Change
Beginning in 2016, the Tribal Council will be addressing Automatic Enrollments on a quarterly basis. This step is being taken to ensure we are adhering to the Enrollment Ordinance. The Enrollment Office will be preparing enrollment packages for review by the Enrollment Committee and approval by the Tribal Council. The following provides the dates required for applications to be in to the Enrollment Office to be considered for that quarter. First Quarter, applications must be in prior to March 1. Second Quarter, applications must be in prior to June 1. Third Quarter, applications must be in prior to September 1. Fourth Quarter, applications must be in prior to November 1, due to holiday schedules. Adoption applications deadline remains the same, December 15 to be prepared for the General Council Meeting in March.
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Suquamish News
December 2015 | 7
Government “Chairman’s Report” cont.
Government-to-Government
The majority of my time over the past month was devoted to representing the Suquamish Tribe at government-togovernment meetings and events. The National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) held their Annual Meeting in San Diego, California. Tribal representatives were attentive to the annual elections as three of the four elected positions were up for vote. NCAI President Brian Cladoosby of Swinomish ran unopposed and thereby won another two-year term. Ron Allen of Jamestown and Aaron Payment of the Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa also ran unopposed for Treasurer and Secretary respectively. Randy Noka of Narangasset narrowly bested Juana Dixon of Pauma Band of Luiseno Indians for 1st Vice President. The convention featured addresses by HUD Secretary Julian Castro, EPA Administrator Gina McCarthy and video messages from Presidential Candidates Hilary Clinton, Bernie Sanders and Ben Carson. Major policy issues discussed included youth substance abuse prevention, natural resource protection, the Washington DC NFL football mascot issue and education policy. I sat on a panel discussing the need for a national effort to preserve tribal sacred sites vital to our cultural identity and tradition.
Conveniently for me, the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation held their quarterly meeting in Washington DC the same week. My focus was on promoting the national effort to develop a sacred sites protection policy and discussing the importance of consulting with Tribes as participating governments when projects affect tribal cultural resources, especially off-reservation. This continues to be a problem in the Southwest and California, which is puzzling since we have made great progress in consultation issues in the Northwest. Tribal Council and staff have joined with staff at the Clearwater Casino Resort to begin planning for the Affiliated Tribes of Northwest Indians (ATNI)-Winter Conference to be held in Suquamish, February 1-4, 2016. We expect a good turnout and a robust agenda. We will be holding several evening events including culture night, a basketball exhibition, fun run/walk, casino entertainment night and welcoming reception.
We continue to heavily engaged with local and state governments in our role as both a protector of the environment and one of the largest employers in the county. I continue to attend the Transportation Futures meetings in Seattle sponsored by the Puget Sound Regional Council where elected officials, retired elected officials and private sector representatives work to Shortly after NCAI many tribal leaders provide a strategy for funding transportation traveled to Washington D.C. for the 7th improvements needed in Puget Sound to annual White House Tribal Nations strengthen the economy and protect the Conference. This year’s conference environment. focused on actions that the President and his cabinet could take that would make The Kitsap Regional Coordinating his historic outreach and support of Indian Council held its annual state legislative Country lasting and serve as a legacy to be summit at the Suquamish Clearwater followed by future administrations. One of Casino Resort. Senator Christine Rolfes President Obama’s major steps was to have (D-Bainbridge Island) joined Representative Interior Secretary Jewell hire an Executive Michelle Cardiel (R-Port Orchard) and Director for the White House Council on Representative Drew MacEwen (R-Union) Native American Affairs. The President’s in addressing the city, county, port and remarks focused on his accomplishments tribal representatives. Topics of discussion in Indian Country and then turned toward included education funding, transportation his participation in a youth panel chaired funding and the capital budget. by Jude Schimmel (Umatilla) student- The balance of the government meetings athlete and graduated of the University of were in Seattle with the Port of Seattle, the Louisville and four other tribal youth. The King County Tribal Liaison and Seattle youth had a dialogue with President Obama Mayor Ed Murray. Port of Seattle CEO regarding education, youth suicide and Ted Fick met with us to discuss the future preserving cultural identity. of the Port of Seattle and their merger
with the Port of Tacoma that will integrate their cargo operations. We emphasized the importance of protecting our treaty fishing rights and also our interest in finding ways to cooperate with the port on growing the tourism industry on our reservation. King County Tribal Liaison Bob Peterson, former Tribal Administrator at the Suquamish Tribe, met with me to discuss cultural resource issues and future stormwater projects in the county. Finally, Mayor Ed Murray hosted a dinner with tribal leaders to discuss his commitment to working with Tribes on improving our government-togovernment relations. Two focus areas of our discussion included homelessness, especially those Native Americans that are a part of the homeless population, and environmental protection efforts such as stormwater treatment and clean up of industrial pollution on the Duwamish River.
Education Policy We continue to be leaders in the formation of Indian education policy in Washington State. The University of Washington hosted the Tribal Leaders Congress on Education Meeting in October at the new Intellectual House. We received updates on congressional actions to reauthorize the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (No Child Left Behind) this session. The Senate and House have both passed bills and are in “conference” to negotiate a compromise between their respective bills. The Senate Bill has many more tribal friendly provisions that we hope can be retained. State Sen. John McCoy (D-Tulalip) gave a report on plans for new legislation in the upcoming legislative session. One of the bills will address the bias of the testing/assessment system in public schools. The University of Washington College of Education held a meeting to review their plans to offer a Native American Teachers Certificate to teachers, administrators and others interested in learning about teaching native history and culture in public schools and methods for improving success of native students. Jon Waterhouse of Oregon Health Sciences University travelled to Suquamish to tell more about opportunities for Tribes to join in collaboration with governmental and academic institutions in forming policies from a native perspective. This
collaboration might include educational opportunities for native students and give Tribes better input into policies affecting water quality, environmental protection and human on a regional and global scale. State Representative Chris Reykdal is running for Superintendent of Public Instruction in 2016 and traveled to Suquamish to learn more about tribal issues and challenges in education. Mr. Reykdal is committed addressing issues regarding biased assessments in our public schools and supports tribal initiatives to improve language immersion opportunities, bring cultural curriculum into the schools and improve our graduation rates.
Natural Resource Protection
Congressmen Denny Heck and Derek Kilmer hosted a meeting at the Washington Stormwater Center at WSU Puyallup, featuring a presentation by scientists who conducted experiments on stormwater effects on salmon. The scientists conducted the experiments at our Grovers Creek Hatchery, showing that untreated stormwater kills coho salmon. However, they also demonstrated that treating stormwater through a sand-soil mixture allows fish to survive without any noticeable effect. We hope this energizes local governments to find ways to treat stormwater runoff and give threatened salmon stocks a chance. I attended a meeting of the Port Gamble Bay Capital Campaign committee where I serve as co-chair. The Port Gamble S’Klallam Tribe hosted the meeting in their council chambers. We are were preparing to launch the campaign early next year and are looking for donors big and small as we try to acquire as much open space as possible to preserve this unique landscape. We are looking for paid internship candidates to assist in the campaign and learn more about the art of fundraising. Please contact me if you are interested.
Fundraising
Grants Department staff met with Kol Medina, who is providing consulting services for us, to develop a strategy for fulfilling the potential of the Suquamish Foundation. We see the Foundation as a resource for community both on the reservation and within our traditional homelands in the Kitsap Peninsula.
8 | December 2015
Suquamish News
suquamish.org
Sports & Recreation
Large Turnout in Men’s, Women’s Fall Basketball Leagues by Magdalena Turrieta
The Suquamish Sports and Rec. Dept. has been running men’s and women’s basketball leagues since mid-October. All games are played on Sundays. The first game is played at 10 a.m. and last game begins at 3 p.m. The women’s season came to an end, with playoffs and championship played November 29. Their games began at 2 p.m. with the championship played at 4 p.m. The men’s league will run through December. The schedule for the month will be posted at the Fitness Center. The men’s league will have playoffs December 20, with games starting at 10 a.m. and the Championship the same afternoon. All game times for December 20 are yet to be announced. The Suquamish Tribe Sports and Rec. staff are happy with the turnout for the league. Seven men’s teams and four women’s teams played. Players are also seeking out more teams to expand the league for the upcoming season. For more information on how to join, please contact the Sports and Rec. Staff.
Above, #3 Aaron Lawrence driving the ball to the hole.
Suquamish Girls in Poulsbo League Play by Magdalena Turrieta
Above #12 Randie Lee-George shooting a jump shot.
Above, Red Jersey Playing Defense KT Deam, white jersey #10 Jacob Hill driving the ball.
October Corn Maze Fun
Back row from left; Sho-Shyne Jones, Jayla Moon, Isabella Ramirez, Kendra Hawkins and Cisse Trawally. Front row from left; Isabelle Chiquiti, Taliyah Berg, Olivia Chiquiti and Mikayla Madayag.
The Suquamish Tribe Sports and Rec. Dept. has a 3-4 grade girls team competing in the Poulsbo Parks and Rec. Basketball League. Their first season came to an end with the Suquamish girls finishing the season in a double header November 16, at Sunnyslope Elementary. Before going into the final, their record was 4-1. The girls have been working hard at each practice, showing improvement each time they are on the court. The girls will roll right into another Parks and Rec season this winter, along with a 5-6 Front row from left; Kane Chiefstick, Jayden Sigo, Cheyenne Castaneda, Dakota Standley, Bobby grade boys team from Suquamish. Once a schedule is set, it will be posted so commuray Pondelick and Billy Jones with (Ducked down) Dylan. Back row from left; Kepa, Jasmyn Casnity members can show up to games and support the young athletes. taneda, Alana Chiefstick and Cassady.
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Suquamish News
December 2015 | 9
Suquamish Youth Learn New Skills at Leadership Training in Spokane
by Terry Johnson
Suquamish youth were part of 150 selected to attend a leadership training in Spokane, in partnership with UNITY. The “TNL” training was designed to teach youth skills for planning large events. They worked out the details of events during the training. Advisors were there to watch and see what they would learn. Leslie Locklear, and Nataanii Hatathlie were the facilitators along with Robert Johnston as a guide. The Suquamish Youth Council was very excited to be a part of “TNL” training. They listened with open hearts and open minds. Each training we have participated in has always started with a blessing of sage and a prayer for good learning and sharing. Each of the groups that came to Spokane discussed issues in their areas. They made mind maps to put everything into perspective for other attendees. They talked about what each community may need. They also talked about how each community is strong and what resources are great. In groups they talked about the good and bad. They talked about the things they want to see in our communities and set goals for themselves on how to accomplish them. They talked about issues that are sensitive and strong. It was a big eye opener for everyone. Youth from every community had some concerns in common.
From left, Ah-nika-leesh Chiquiti, Hailey Crow, Talon Capoeman and Luuk McCloud at leadership training in Spokane.
tion and come up with a project they plan tobring home and execute. Leslie and Nataanii both worked with our youth and helped guide them to finish what The “TNL” training gave them the tools to take informathey started. The Suquamish Youth Council worked very hard to come up with ideas, solutions, a budget, and a plan. They are goal orientated and have a From left; Katelynn Pratt, Raven Roberts time line for all and Angelina Sosa. this and plan to reach out to youth in our community.
Inter-Tribal League Play
December 2015 Youth Basketball Tournament Elementary and middle school ages • December 12 & 13
YOUTH CENTER CLOSURES Holiday and Training
• December 14, 18, 24 through January 3 reopen on January 4th
Winter Trip
Youth sign up OPEN • December 19th Zoo Lights Sign-up with TJ or Angelina
Creative classes
Sign ups are open please view age limits • December 7 making gifts with Azure *sign up
This year we hosted our first Inter-Tribal league game in our fitness center. Skokomish Jr high and high school, came and participated in the first official game on the court. From left; Antonia Ewing, Orlando Chiquiti, Brandy Boure, Josh Bagley and Sierra Denning.
with Angelina • December 11 decorate Youth Center • December 15 Ginger bread houses • December 16 snow globes • December 17 decorate cupcakes • December 21-23 Carving with Andrea Wilbur Sigo for ages 15+
Suquamish News
10 | December 2015
Youth & Fitness Centers SUN
MON
Sports & Rec Staff
TUE
WED
1
2
Adult Open Gym 7pm
6
7
8
9
13
14
15
16
Youth Basketball Tournament
20
Squaxin Basketball Tournament
27 Closed Christmas Holiday
SPARKS 3:30pm Crafts with Azure Pickleball 7:30pm
Youth Center
Canoe blessing lunch Adult Open Gym 7pm
Pickleball 7pm
Craft day Gingerbread houses Adult Open Gym 7pm
21
22
CLOSED
Carving class Squaxin Basketball Tournament Pickleball 7pm
28 Closed Christmas Holiday
Carving class Squaxin Basketball Tournament Adult Open Gym 7pm
29 Closed Christmas Holiday
THU
23
Carving class
30 Closed Christmas Holiday
SAT
4
5
10
11
12
17
18
19
Christmas Trees Archery 4:30pm Adult Open Gym 7pm
Birthday Cake Craft day snow globes
FRI
3
Elders Drum Class Archery 4:30pm Adult Open Gym 7pm
Craig Miller 360-394-8574 Aaron Lawrence 360-394-8575 Magdalena Turrieta 360-394-8634 Terry Johnson 360-394-8618 Kate Ahvakana 360-394-8573
Holiday Bazaar
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Decorating cupcakes Archery 4:30pm Adult Open Gym 7pm
24 Closed Christmas Holiday 31 Closed Christmas Holiday
SPARKS 3:30pm
Decorate Youth Center After School SPARKS 3:30pm
Youth Center
CLOSED
25 Closed Christmas Holiday
Holiday Bazaar
Youth Basketball Tournament
Zoo Lights Trip Squaxin Basketball Tournament
26 Closed Christmas Holiday
Youth Activities & Open Gym At the new Fitness & Youth Centers! Youth Center: 360-394-8576 Fitness Center: 360- 394-7142 5243 NE Totten RD Poulsbo, WA 98370
Suquamish News
suquamish.org
December 2015 | 11
Elders Lunchroom MON
TUE
Elders Kitchen: 1Beef Stew 360-394-8407 Egg Salad Sandwich
WED
THU
FRI
2
4
Broccoli Slaw Fresh Fruit
Meatloaf Mashed Potatoes & Gravy Winter Squash Tossed Salad Yogurt, Fruit & Granola Parfait
3 Elders Council
7
8
9
10
11
14
15
16
17
18
Please call to inform the kitchen if you would like to cancel home delivery for the day.
Elder’s Kitchen Closed Today Lunch will be delivered to homebound Elders
Chicken Adobo Brown Rice Steamed Spinach Tossed Salad Birthday Cake & Ice Cream
21 Christmas Dinner
Turkey, Gravy, & Mashed Potatoes Broccoli Tossed Salad Wheat Roll Sugar Free Apple Pie
28
BBQ Chicken Brown Rice Capri Veggie Blend Waldorf Salad Pumpkin Cookie
Baked Potato Bar with Chili, Broccoli, & Homemade Cheese Sauce Tossed Salad Applesauce Raisin Muffin Fresh Fruit
22
Ham Hocks w/ Beans Brown or White Rice California Blend Veg. Tossed Salad Pachado Bread Cottage Cheese & Peaches
29
Tuna Noodle Casserole Peas & Carrots Tossed Salad Blueberry Bran Muffin Fresh Fruit
NO Elder’s Lunch Due to HS staff Holiday Breakfast Lunch will be delivered to homebound Elderss
23
Sweet & Sour Pork Brown Rice Brussels Sprouts Tossed Salad Applesauce Muffin Fresh Fruit
Split Pea Soup with Ham Egg Salad Sandwich Broccoli Slaw Fresh Fruit
Pork Stir Fry with Green Beans, Onions, Mushrooms Brown Rice Tossed Salad Fresh Fruit
Salmon Boiled Potatoes Mixed Vegetables Tossed Salad Pachado Bread Fudgsicle Bar
Indian Tacos (with meat, beans, lettuce, tomatoes, cheese, salsa, sour cream) Fresh cukes & baby carrots Fresh Fruit
Geoduck Chowder & Oyster Crackers Tossed Salad with HB Eggs & Sunflower Seeds Oat Bran Raisin Muffin Yogurt Parfait with Berries & Granola
24 Served 11:00-11:30:am 25
Baked Fish & Sweet Potatoes Germany Veggie Blend Tossed Salad & Sunflower Seeds Wheat Roll SF Pudding
Tribal Center closes at Noon Tuna Sandwich Fresh Vegetable Platter Tomato Soup Fresh Fruit
30
31
Tribal Center Tribal Center Tribal Center Tribal Center Closed Closed Closed Closed Christmas Holiday Christmas Holiday Christmas Holiday Christmas Holiday
Tribal Center Closed Christmas Holiday
Beverages Served Daily 1% Milk, Lactose Free Milk, Coffee and Tea. Occassional substitutions may be necessary.
Suquamish News
12 | December 2015
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Business
Spotlight on PME: John Forsman
Long-time gaming employee and Suquamish Tribal Member attributes success to family, hard work and community
by Lisa Rodriguez
cline. Moving to California was a change for John, but wasn’t his calling. Later his sister Marion told him that Suquamish was building a casino and convinced him to give it a shot. At age 35 John began as a In John’s family it was important to teach dealer and moved his way up, from Dealer, youth about responsibility and hard work. to Supervisor and finally to Shift Manager, At age 11 John began learning those family where he’s been for the last 15 years. values by joining his father on his garbage “When I was unsure about my direction routes. When he wasn’t working with his in life, it was my sister Marion Boushdad he would help his mother with her job ie-Forsman who mentored and encourat Kiana Lodge. Fishing with his family aged my choices. I began working at the was also something John began at a young casino very nervous about my abilities and age. He became a full time fisherman to- it was my sister who helped me improve wards the end of high school. After 17 years my confidence and got me to where I am of fishing John saw the fishing industry de- today,” said John. “Throughout my proSuquamish Tribal member John Forsman enjoyed his childhood growing up in Suquamish. Because of the tribe and the love of his family, John has found a wonderful career and a sense of community.
periences every day is what he enjoys the most. Over the years John has noticed that the hard working people within the community don’t get recognized very often. John envisions having a Suquamish Community event in which the tribe can nominate people saying why their one of the hardest working people in the community, have a judges panel to narrow it down, then an award ceremony. So many people help the tribe in large or small ways, it would be great to have a way to recognize those people. John greatly appreciates the programs Having been in his current position for 15 and opportunities that the Tribe offers and years, John still finds joy in what he does. couldn’t be happier being part of this great Meeting new people and having new ex- community. fessional career I couldn’t be where I am without Karen Villanueva, she mentored and encouraged me to purse the positions that she knew I would excel at. I also could not be the person I am without my parents Jim and Helen Forsman. Because of their parenting I slowly learned to look at every individual as smart, not to judge them by their age or sex, to learn from everyone around me and respect all individuals. Because of my parents I’ve learned kindness and to treat people the way I would like to be treated.”
Suquamish Evergreen Corporation Opens Marijuana Retail Store
New business venture set to begin operations later this month will offer same products as other retail shops in Washington by April Leigh & Lisa Rodriguez
Suquamish Evergreen Corporation will soon be opening a retail marijuana store near the Longhouse Texaco. The move comes after The Suquamish Tribe entered a tribal-state marijuana compact with the State of Washington earlier this fall.
Marijuana Store Q&A
“Our decision to enter into retail operations comes after careful consideration. With the passage of I-502, we knew we needed to adapt to the changing environment surrounding our reservation and saw an opportunity to diversify our business operations,” said Tribal Council Chairman Leonard Forsman.
Where is the Store Located?
The passage of I-502 legalized the retail sale and consumption of marijuana in Washington State. After entering into an agreement with Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board, the Tribe renovated building space along Highway 305 for the store. The business is expected to be operational this month. All taxes and profits from the store will be used to provide services to Suquamish Tribal Members. With the addition of retail marijuana sales, Suquamish Tribal businesses now encompass several hospitality, tourism, gaming, seafood, retail, construction and property management ventures.
It will be operated by the Suquamish Evergreen Corporation, a wholly owned subsidiary of Port Madison Enterprises, an agency of the Suquamish Tribe
When Will the Store Open?
The Marijuana Store is set to open Mid-December 2015. Store will be located directly next to the Longhouse Texaco Gas Station Hours of operation: Mon-Sat 10am-Midnight Sundays 10am-10pm
What’s the Name of the Store? Store Name: Agate Dreams
Who Owns the Store?
Who Can Purchase Products?
No one under the age of 21 may enter the store. Adults 21 and older may purchase marijuana. The business reserves the right to refuse service to anyone for any reason.
Types of Products Available?
Various types and brands of Flower (i.e. bud), Edibles, Vape products and Concentrates. All products sold in the store will have undergone quality assurance testing. On premises consumption is not allowed at the store.
Employment Opportunities?
Employment opportunities are currently available for Bud Tenders, Security and Lead Tender. For employment information contact Calvin Medina at CalvinMedina@clearwatercasino.com
Tax & Discounts?
A tax will be imposed on all sales that are not grown, produced or processed within Indian Country. Taxes will be applied to everyone, including tribal members. Discounts and special pricing will not be available
What do I Need to Know About Purchasing Marijuana?
Our bud tenders are trained to provide helpful customer service and make your experience comfortable. When you enter the store, let the bud tender know if it’s your first time and he or she will answer any questions you may have.
How Much Can I Purchase?
Adults 21 and over can purchase in a single transaction: Up to one ounce of usable marijuana (the harvested flowers or bud); Up to 16 ounces of marijuana-infused products in solid form; Up to 72 ounces of marijuana-infused products in liquid form; and up to 7 grams of marijuana concentrates.
How Much Will it Cost?
Pricing will be comparable to other stores.
Can I Resale What I Purchase?
It remains a felony for anyone but a licensed retailer to sell marijuana on Suquamish Tribal lands. Providing or selling marijuana to a minor under the age of 21 on Suquamish Tribal lands is a gross misdemeanor. Providing or selling marijuana to a minor under the age of 18 on Suquamish Tribal lands is a felony
Is Marijuana Use Allowed a the Clearwater Casino Resort?
The use of marijuana is prohibited at the Resort, including in hotel rooms, on the casino floor, or in any “smoking” location. It is illegal to consume marijuana in public view.
What About Driving & Marijuana?
It is illegal under Suquamish Tribal law and state law to drive under the influence of marijuana, and doing so may result in significant legal penalties.
For additional questions, please contact Rion Ramirez at RionRamirez@clearwatercasino.com | 360.598.8766 OR Russell Steele at Russell@clearwatercasino.com 360.598.8711
suquamish.org
Clearwater Casino
Suquamish News
December 2015 | 13
14 | December 2015
Suquamish News
Community Notices
Obituaries
Milo was a Vietnam Marine Veteran, Suquamish Tribal Elder, and a proud member of the Suquamish Warriors He is survived by his son, Milo Anthony Peck IV of Fruita, Colorado, his daughter, Melanie Kristen Smith of North Las Vegas, Nevada and siblings, Paul Peck and Linda Immken both of California. His is predeceased by two brothers, Ronald and Jeffrey Peck. He also had three grandchildren; Madeline Rose Peck, Ava Marie Peck and Milo Anthony Peck V. Milo spent most of his adult career as a masonry construction worker, specializing in intricate brick and stone work. He worked on the rehabilitation of several protected buildings after the Northridge earthquake in California. After retirement, he took up wood working in his garage and assisted the Suquamish Warriors with making cases for flags and did other craftsman jobs in the community.
Milo’s family wish to convey their thanks and gratitude to all those in June 19, 1947 - August 17, 2015 the Suquamish Tribe and the SuquaLong time Poulsbo resident Milo Alfred mish Warriors for making the years he Peck III passed away on August 17, 2015. spent with you happy and memorable.
Milo Peck
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suquamish.org
Suquamish News
December Haylie Mabe Dec 1 Sammy Mabe Katelyn Carper Victoria Smith Jeffrey Carriere John Villanueva Cassady Hill Cameron Lawrence Dec 6 Zane Peterson Lewis Bayne Patricia Chargualaf Dec 2 Guadalupe Faye O’Brien Troy Ayres Koebyn Purser Dec 7 Heather West Carroll Crowell Trentin Moss Dec 3 Sandra Power Grace Alexander Tomara Thomas Ana Edelstein Susan Parkhurst Dec 8 Eliza Castillo Dec 5 Breezy Webster Cheyenne Colomb Wahim Williams Jr. Mary Lindell
Dec 9 Kristina Pitts Mary Webster Dec 10 Samuel Pastrana Eddleman Jr. Dec 11 Garnet Mabe Dewayne Peck Dec 12 Alicia Henry Celeste Loneia Colleen O’Brien Dec 13 Shaunie Cordero
December 2015 | 15
Birthdays
Dec 14 Olivia Ferrara Dec 15 Rebecca Kaldor Judith Pierpoint Joshua Timmerman Dec 16 Jason McClurg-Santos Danielle Morsette Mellissa Pondelick Dec 17 Sierra Bakken Charlotte Santos Dec 18 Felician Belmont David Sigo Jr. Dec 19 Ashley Boure-Jones Trey Kumpf Logan Mabe Chandra Nease Pierre Perrot
Dec 20 Donald Jones Nicholas Alexander Dec 21 Authur Brown Dec 22 We-Laka Chiquiti Jr. James Mabe Nancy Martinez Delmont Ostenberg Richard Purser Dec 23 Julia Hommel Agnes Pratt Tony Snorteland Dec 24 James Cordero Lisa Rodriguez Azeneth Solano-Sigo James Suarez Dec 25 Kyle Dozier
Nancy Sigo Toni Smith Dec 26 Danny Williams Dec 27 Patricia Blomberg Tyee Lawrence Anissa Ostenberg Jackson Purser Dec 29 Amber Lui Carsyn Maloney Daniece Williams Dec 30 Jacquelyn Kimmel Linda O’Conner Charissa Sigo Dec 31 Randy George Wayne George Jerry Porter
PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID Kent, WA Permit No. 71