Community Calendar
Meetings
Suquamish Tribal Council meets Dec. 9. Agenda and links sent via SUN Weekly Update & text.
Suquamish Tribal Gaming Committee meets Dec. 3 & 17, 10am at Suquamish Museum. Call Angela Brainerd at (360) 394-8652 for details.
Suquamish Warriors meet Dec. 3 at 5:30pm at the Warriors Vet Center.
Suquamish Seafoods Board meets Dec. 10. Call Shanel Carlson at (360) 394-8512 for details.
PME Board meets Dec. 18. Contact Emily Sato at emilysato@clearwatercasino.com for details.
Suquamish Museum Board meets Dec. 19, 10am-noon at Museum. For info call (360) 394-8499.
Elders Council meets Dec. 17, 2-4pm at Elders Lodge. See SUN Weekly Update for details or call (360) 394-8417.
Recovery Meetings. All are welcome to recovery meetings, held Mon.-Fri., 6pm at the Wellness Center.
Suquamish News
Community Events
Suquamish Indigenous Parenting Conference Dec. 2 & 3.
See flyer pg 7.
Culture Night, Wed. Dec. 4, 5-7pm. House of Awakened Culture
Financial Aid & Funding Higher Ed. Thurs, Dec. 19, 5-8:30pm. Presented by the 477 Yusawiac Program. See flyer pg 9.
Holiday Party for Suquamish tribal households. Dec. 13, 5-7pm at House of Awakened Culture.
Winter Holidays — Government offices closed Dec. 25 – Jan. 1.
Please bring a new, unwrapped gift to distribute to kids before Christmas. Boxes are in the lobby of the Administration Building and the Human Services lobby, now through early December. Organized by Suquamish Warriors and the Marine Corps Reserve.
Published monthly by the Suquamish Tribe: 18490 Suquamish Way, Suquamish, WA 98392
Email us at: communications@suquamish.nsn.us Send letters to: Suquamish News Editor, PO Box 498, Suquamish, WA 98392-0498
Letters should include the writer’s full name, address, and telephone number and may be edited for clarity and space.
All photo submissions must be made in JPG or PDF form, with resolution of 300 dpi or more.
Suq uamish Museum
Museum Events December
Dec. 8 Sun, 11am–3pm. Picture with Santa. FREE Dec 14 Sat, all day. FREE Admission Dec 14 & 15, 10am–3pm. Holiday Native Makers Market. FREE Dec 18-21, 9am–4pm. Candy Cane Ornaments. FREE
Dec 22 Sun, 1pm–4pm. Beaded Ornament Workshop with Ariana Griggs
Dec 23-Jan 1, Museum closed for winter holiday.
More info: SuquamishMuseum.org
Holiday Support for Families in Need
Applications available at Human Services for enrolled and descendant children in need this holiday season. Must reside in Kitsap County and apply in-person. Deadline to apply: 4:30pm, Wed. Dec. 4.
Suquamish Tribal Council
Leonard Forsman Chairman
Josh Bagley Vice-Chair
Irene Carper Secretary
Denita Holmes Treasurer
Lorilee Morsette Member
Azure Boure Member
Luther Mills, Jr. Member
On the Cover
Suquamish Elders work their pie-making magic with Suquamish GIS Program Manager (and award-winning pie baker) Tom Curley. More on p3! Photos by JoAnn Joe
Editorial Staff
Leonard Forsman Editor-in-Chief
Catherine Edwards Executive Editor
Sarah van Gelder Managing Editor
Jon Anderson News Editor
JoAnn Joe Photography/Design
Georgia Browne Layout and Design
Editorial Policy
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.
Reproduction of Suquamish News, in whole or in part, without written permission from the Suquamish Tribe is strictly prohibited.
Just in time for the holidays, Elders share in the fine art of making delicious pies
Tom’s Pumpkin Pie
INGREDIENTS
CRUST:
2 4 c. unbleached flour (Montana Wheat in the blue and white package – getting harder to find)
1 TBSP. sugar
1 tsp. salt
1 tsp. baking powder (Clabber Girl or other non-aluminum brand)
1-2/3 c. shortening (Crisco, not the cheap stuff)
1 TBSP. white vinegar
1 c. water
FILLING
(for 9-1\2” pie tin):
1 can (15 oz.) pumpkin
1 can (12 oz.) evaporated milk
– or my preference, 1 can
coconut milk (13.5 oz.) not lite
¾ c. brown sugar
1 tsp. ground cinnamon
½ tsp. salt
½ tsp. ground ginger
½ tsp. ground cloves (freshly ground the best)
2 large eggs
1 c. chopped walnuts
DIRECTIONS
CRUST:
Whisk the dry ingredients together in a bowl. Cut in the shortening with a pastry cutter until like peas, mix water and vinegar then pour into flour/shortening mixture. Mix with your hands until well combined (like making mud pies) then put in a plastic bag and let sit while you make the filling.
FILLING:
Preheat oven to 425. Roll out the pie crust and fit to the pie plate. In a bowl whisk together the sugar, cinnamon, salt, ginger and cloves. Whisk in the eggs, beating well. Stir in the pumpkin, and gradually stir in the milk. Pour the pumpkin/milk mixture in the pie shell, then spread the walnuts over top. Bake for 15 minutes at 425, then for 40 minutes at 350 or until a toothpick near the middle comes out clean. Cool for two hours. Serve with fresh whipped cream.
Suquamish Tribal Council Statement on Election 2024
“We will defend our culture and our values”
TheSuquamish Tribe, like other first peoples of this continent, has experienced disruption since first contact with Europeans. We’ve survived disease, attempts to assimilate us by erasing our culture, and efforts to terminate us and attack our right to exist as a self-governing sovereign nation. But our ancestors were strong, and for generations we adapted and survived by relying on our culture, families, and our unity as a tribe.
Just as our past generations demonstrated, we will endure as a nation regardless of who holds federal office.
We will fiercely defend our access to health care, education, a strong economy, ecosystem health, and our right to self-governance. We will reject discrimination and racism. Our values, along with the enduring guarantees contained in our treaties and in the Constitution of the United States, form a strong foundation for the years and decades to come.
Here in Washington state, we have built strong collaborations with state leaders. The Centennial Accord created a protocol for frank and respectful government-to-government consultations, and we have made significant progress, especially in recent years with the leadership of Gov. Jay Inslee. We look forward to continuing this progress with Governor-elect Bob Ferguson and Attorney General-elect Nick Brown. With the election of the state’s new Commissioner of Public Lands, Dave Upthegrove, we anticipate continuing to cooperate on protecting forests, streams, marine ecosystems, and other treaty-protected resources here in Washington state.
We are delighted that state Senator Emily Randall will represent our district in the U.S. Congress. Her skillful bipartisan leadership at the state Legislature will be much needed in today’s polarized climate.
A bright spot in this election is the defeat of Initiative 2117, which means the Climate Commitment Act (CCA) will remain in force. This Act is strengthening our state’s economy while meeting ambitious climate goals. In Indian country, the CCA is funding restoration of fish and marine habitats, efficient and affordable heating and cooling systems in tribal homes, solar installations, and electrification of transportation.
In the next four years, we expect federal support for climate action to erode in the new administration, but here in Washington state, we can continue moving ahead, demonstrating to the nation that prosperity and responsible climate action go hand in hand.
In other respects, too, Washington state has become a model for positive tribal-state relations, and the outcome of this collaboration has benefited all state residents. Achieving this was not easy. But the enduring relationships we built with state and local officials will serve us all well during the years to come and could serve as a model for other states and for the nation as a whole.
We are grateful to President Biden who remained a true friend to Indian Country through his appointments at the Department of Interior and BIA, his investments in tribal governments and economies, and his protection of sacred sites. And we applaud Vice President Harris’ courageous run for the presidency. Their leadership and vision will not soon be forgotten.
We hope to have a positive relationship with the incoming president, and to continue the progress made under various administrations to fully recognize Indian people as the first Americans. Our differences aren’t as great as some people think. One
of the Supreme Court’s most brilliant leaders on Indian law, Justice Neil Gorsuch, for example, was appointed during the first term of President-elect Trump. We have friends and supporters in both political parties, and we will continue building on the positive relationships we have developed over the years.
Regardless of who holds the highest offices in the land, this is clear: We will exercise the legal and cultural and spiritual rights that were passed down by our ancestors, and we will fiercely defend them for future generations.
Tribe creates economic development program
Diana Riggins to spearhead effort to expand opportunities for tribal members & businesses
TheSuquamish Tribe has launched a new economic development program designed to help create new business opportunities for both the tribe and its members.
Tribal member Diana Riggins will lead the effort as the tribe’s new Business & Economic Development Program Manager.
Riggins was introduced in her new role during recent session of Tribal Council. She brings decades of experience in economic development, business strategy, and community growth, said Executive Director Catherine Edwards. Riggins is also an entrepreneur, with several successful businesses to her credit.
In her new position, which is fully funded by a federal grant from the U.S. Economic Development Administration, she’s tasked with leading efforts to create a comprehensive five-year economic development plan.
“We couldn’t have found a better person for this position,” said Suquamish Tribe Chairman Leonard Forsman. “I think there’s great promise for a combination of tribal investment and entrepreneurial support, and ways we can maximize and improve our downtown presence,” Forsman said.
Over 30 years ago, Riggins held a similar position with Port Madison Enterprises and was the tribe’s first Gaming Commission Chair, helping to lay the foundation for creating the Clearwater Casino. More recently, she has worked on strategic planning initiatives within the Rural Development Council and led projects on tribal economic growth at the national level.
Riggins said she sees tremendous potential for the Suquamish community.
“Alongside working toward the Tribe’s economic goals, I hope to provide services that directly support our members, especially those with a small business or creative practice,” she said. Riggins wants to help tribal members expand
their businesses, offering them tools, training, and resources.
One of her goals is to launch an online resource page featuring all tribal member-owned businesses. This platform would allow anyone to easily locate a Suquamish-owned business for their needs, wheth er seeking goods, services, or partnerships.
Riggins also aims to elevate the tribe’s creative community by establishing an online marketplace where Suquamish artists, makers, and artisans can showcase and sell their work.
“Our artists and creative makers are an invalu able part of the Suquamish heritage and economy,” said Riggins. “An online marketplace will connect our creative talent with a wider audience, allowing their work to reach new communities and honoring the cultural contributions they make every day.”
In the coming months, Riggins will be reaching out to the tribal community for input and collaboration. She invites tribal members to share their ideas, feedback, and stories with her.
“Whether you’re a business owner, a creative artist, or simply passionate about the economic well-being of our tribe, I’d love to hear from you,” she said.
By Jon Anderson
If you cannot walk away when you’ve reached your limit, or if you find yourself preoccupied with thoughts of gambling or in conflict with others because of your gambling activity, we can help. Contact the Suquamish Tribe Wellness Center at (360) 394-7139 or (360) 3948558. We are here for you.
New wellness & lactation room to support tribal families and staff
TheSuquamish Community Health Depart-
ment is excited to announce a new wellness and lactation room at its main offices. The space is designed to provide a serene, supportive environment for community members and staff alike.
This wellness room caters specifically to lactating mothers but is available to all community members and staff. For nursing mothers, the room offers privacy, comfort, and a quiet, peaceful space to encourage lactation and bonding. Maternal Child Health studies have shown that a
tranquil setting can enhance milk production and ease the nursing process.
The soft lighting and warm-colored walls help create a soothing ambiance, while features like a voice-activated chair and Bluetooth connectivity make it easy to relax or enjoy guided meditations.
The room is considered a multipurpose area which includes additional seating, allowing for private discussions between community members, employees, or with health staff, like our Registered Dietician, Rachel Parsons, who offers
tailored nutrition consultations.
Whether taking a moment for self-care or seeking a quiet place to connect, community members have access to a supportive, inclusive space in the new wellness room.
By Jeff Riggins Community Health Manager
For more information visit suquamish.nsn.us/ health-division/community-health/ or call the Community Health front desk: (360) 394-8469
Tribal Boards and Committees Seeking Applicants
Tribal Council will be appointing new members to the Seafoods Board, Port Madison Enterprises Board, Suquamish Museum, and other boards and committees. If you are interested, please email Amanda Carper at acarper@suquamish.nsn.us by Dec. 31, 2024.
Application deadline: Dec. 31
Tribal Government
Chairman’s Report
Aswe look forward to ending 2024 and moving into the new year, we need to reflect on our accomplishments and address future challenges and opportunities.
The national election was intense, and we expect to see a repeat of the Trump Administration for the next four years. We will continue to balance our role as defenders of our natural resources and leaders of economic development in our region.
On election night, I joined Governor Inslee and other supporters of the “No on Initiative 2117” campaign. Initiative 2117, which would have overturned the state’s Climate Commitment Act (CCA), was rejected by a large margin of voters. As a result, the CCA continues its statewide efforts to address climate change and provide assistance to tribes adapting to rising temperatures.
Protecting natural resources
We continue our work locally to protect water quality and promote salmon recovery. The West Sound Partners for Ecosystem Recovery (WSPER) met to decide on funding distribution to local projects and to honor the service of retiring Commissioner Charlotte Garrido who has served as WSPER co-chair for many years.
The Suquamish Tribe is opposing the permitting of commercial net pens in state waters to protect our waters from pollution and the risk of disease to resident wild and hatchery salmon stocks. I provided testimony to the Department of Natural Resources expressing our opposition.
Government-to-government update
We remain active in our government-to-government relationships with local, state, and federal agencies. The US Navy held their annual Navy/ Tribal Council meeting at the Harborside Conference Center in Bremerton. Tribal leaders joined officers from the U.S. Coast Guard, US Navy, and the US Army to discuss issues of importance to the Tribes especially in respect to natural resource protection.
The City of Seattle hosted a meeting to present their plans to expand the green economy in the region. The plan includes workforce development, converting buildings to zero carbon emissions, and providing services to out-of-state offshore wind development.
Intertribal gatherings
Intertribal organizations are important to creating unity and developing regional and national priorities for Indian Country. The National Congress of American Indians held their annual conference in Las Vegas where members of the Biden Administration and a number of federal agency administrators addressed the assembled tribal leaders. Our Executive Board meeting included a review of the NCAI budget and the progress made in private fundraising to further the mission of the organization. The Northwest Caucus held their meeting where we initiated planning for the new president and Congress. I also chaired the NCAI Climate Task Force meeting.
The Affiliated Tribes of Northwest Indians held a virtual meeting where a panel of tribal lobbyists gave their thoughts on how the next two years would affect Indian Country. The primary concerns are in respect to potential cuts to domestic spending that could affect our health, environmental, and public safety budgets. The Washington Indian Gaming Association held their monthly meeting at Kiana Lodge. We discussed the upcoming legislative session and state budget. We also received updates on legal cases regarding gaming nationally.
The Potlatch Fund, a tribal non-profit that funds projects in Indian Country especially for cultural preservation, held their annual fundraiser at Kiana Lodge. I had the honor of providing some welcoming remarks before the Suquamish canoe
family provided an opening song. The event raised significant funding for their inspiring grant programs.
Other events
Mithun, an architecture firm with its main office in Seattle, designed the House of Awakened Culture and the Suquamish Museum. They are celebrating their 75th anniversary and asked me to provide a presentation on the history and culture of the Suquamish Tribe and our vision for the future. This was a great experience to share our vision with the employees at their office located on the Seattle waterfront.
The Suquamish Tribe hosted some exciting events last month including the tribal government employee tenure awards where we honored the anniversaries of several of workers who have served us so well. We also had the annual Suquamish Veterans Honoring at Kiana Lodge where we had speaker presentations, raffle prizes and a luncheon for our honored warriors. The Tribe also held a Ballot Party just before election day to encourage our tribal members and employees to get out and exercise their right to vote.
The University of Washington Board of Regents held their November meeting at the UW Tacoma campus. We received updates on our budget, which is improving but still faces challenges especially in athletics, medicine, and potential cuts in federal funding. We did receive an update on the new welcome center project that is now proposed to be built adjacent to the Burke Museum near the main entrance on 45th Street.
Leonard Forsman, Suquamish Tribe Chairman
The Kitsap County Sewer Rates will increase to $104.25 per month
Starting January 1, 2025
Questions (360) 394-8423 2025 SEWER RATE INCREASE
Suquamish Housing
Department of Community Development
Boarding
School Apology: An Important Step Towards Restoration
Iwasamong those who had the opportunity to witness President Joe Biden’s historic apology for the Federal Indian Boarding School era. It was a deeply personal moment for me as well as a milestone in the relationships between Indian Country and the federal government.
Like so many other Suquamish people of her time, my grandmother was forced to attend the Tulalip Boarding School. She passed away at a young age and was not able to pass on her experience to our family.
As a 19-year-old, I learned about boarding school operations and federal policy working as a researcher for the Suquamish Tribal Archives. I dug into records housed at the National Archives at Sand Point in Seattle and learned about the federal assimilation policies forcing families to send their children to distant schools. Here they were punished for speaking their language, required to work as janitors and cooks, and many suffered abuse.
We later interviewed Suquamish Elders to gather material for the Museum and heard their stories of their experiences in boarding schools and the lasting impacts on themselves and their families.
I came to see that this work of uncovering and sharing our history is a part of our fight for existence.
The boarding school era had weakened our people by severing the relationship between elders and children for more than a full generation. This gap in cultural transmission left the survivors, their
children and their grandchildren with a weakened cultural identity worsened by the lost teachings.
While working at the Suquamish Archives and Museum during the 1980s we faced racism and discrimination from the Kitsap community as we restated our right to self-determination as a sovereign nation. Fifty years ago, Judge Boldt restored our treaty fishing rights, and we were subjected to attack and arrest as we fished for salmon and dug clams. The Suquamish Tribe’s existence was challenged by local politicians, and we encountered ignorance of our tribal history from the surrounding community. We had few outside supporters as we pushed back against the 150-year-old federally funded assimilation effort.
As we fought for our legal rights and worked to strengthen our tribal government, we reminded local, state and federal officials of their duty to recognize our government-to-government relationship.
Tribal leadership made cultural preservation a top priority, funding the Museum with what little money they had as way to claim our history and fight extinction. The Museum and the stories we told there were our ways of saying, “We are still a people and a tribe with our own values and culture.” This laid the foundation for a cultural resurgence, accelerated in 1989 by the birth of the annual tribal canoe journey. We invested in restoring our traditions and planned the groundwork needed to counter the impacts of the federal assimilation policy. This infrastructure included the House of Awakened Culture (a successor to Old Man House), a new museum, a school
and early learning center, a refurbished grave for Chief Seattle, and a memorial to our veterans. Together, these facilities offer a safe space where we can practice our traditions, pass along our teachings, and heal ourselves.
Now we’re moving on to our next steps, working directly on the impacts of the boarding school era on our families and community. The effects are still very present in our communities. At the Elders Committee meetings of the Affiliated Tribes of Northwest Indians, for example, it’s been heart wrenching to hear tribal leaders get emotional as they describe the impact this era had on them as survivors of boarding schools or as children of survivors.
In the past, we just had to survive, to keep going, not give up. Now, with extinction less of an immediate threat, we’re starting to work more on the healing.
Being present at the apology ceremony in Arizona and hearing directly from President Biden was an important milestone in this decades-long journey. I’m grateful to the Biden Administration, first for appointing Secretary of Interior Deb Haaland (Laguna Pueblo), who, along with Assistant Secretary for Indian Affairs Bryan Newland (Ojibwe), brought this issue to the forefront of the work of the Department of Interior. And witnessing this issue elevated to the U.S. president was historic. We needed to hear the boarding school era finally acknowledged as a harmful practice that had severe impacts and that was carried out with malicious intent, as was stated in Volume 1 of the Interior Department’s investigative report on Indian Boarding schools. Now is the time for the federal government to act by appropriating the funding needed to restore our languages, culture, and land ownership.
This presidential acknowledgement can’t be unsaid. Today, there’s more permission to talk about the issue and more recognition from the wider community of the impacts of the boarding schools. Instead of being told, as we were in the past, not to bring too much heaviness into conversations with non-Indians, now we can be honest about what we’ve experienced.
We thank the Canadian First Nations for leading the way on this. Now we can focus on healing our families and communities, and building on the work already underway with governments, foundations, and churches to fully restore our language, culture, facilities, and all that was lost. By Leonard Forsman, Suquamish Tribe Chairman
Suquamish response to opioid epidemic makes progress on several fronts
Healing to Wellness Court reboots with Place of Change expansion
The Suquamish Tribe’s response to the opioid crisis centers on an holistic, healing-centered approach. At a recent Lunchtime Forum for tribal members, government leaders shared news of progress in tribal courts, housing, Wellness, and development of a clinic.
Tribe Courts is bringing back the Healing to Wellness Court, which offers an alternative to punitive justice for people dealing with substance use disorders, focusing on recovery, healing, and accountability. Tribal Court Chief Judge Cindy Smith told those attending the forum that she’s confident the approach will help foster resilience and connection among tribal members.
“Everyone has a unique purpose, something they came here on Earth to give,” Smith said. “Sometimes, addiction obscures that purpose. The Healing to Wellness Court is here to help individuals rediscover their value and rebuild their lives within a supportive community.”
Accountability & compassion
Participants in the Healing to Wellness Court are held accountable to rigorous personal milestones, but are met with compassionate support at each step. They are required to attend regular court sessions, comply with substance abuse treatment plans, and engage with a network of support that includes peer mentors from the tribe’s Wellness programs.
Smith noted peer support is a crucial aspect of the program’s success. Peer support staff, many of whom have their own experiences with recovery, offer encouragement, transportation to medical and other appointments, and guidance in navigating treatment services.
This system aims to create a support structure where individuals feel seen and understood, reducing the shame and isolation that often accompany addiction.
“We’re not just ordering treatment or fines here,” Smith said. “Our goal is to assist individuals in their recovery journey, keeping them and our community safe.”
Place of Change: Safe haven for transition
Wellness is also expanding its Place of Change effort to help unhoused tribal members, many of whom are wrestling with addiction.
In a briefing to Tribal Council, the Wellness Center’s Substance Use Disorder Supervisor Brian Burwell outlined a series of improvements that would tap $1.15 million in grant funding to:
• Replace the current basic “tiny home” shelter units with six more-robust units for transitional/recovery housing where residents would be actively engaged with Wellness and other social services with the tribe.
• Repurpose three of the current units as emergency overnight shelters for unhoused tribal members for overnight use only.
• Build an on-site clubhouse to host group Wellness activities and recovery-focused community events.
“The idea is to not just provide beds and shelter,” said Burwell. “We’re offering a foundation that allows individuals to focus on recovery in a safe space, with the resources they need to rebuild their lives,” he said.
Burwell hopes to see construction begin early next year, at the same site as the current tiny house shelters off Suquamish Way across from Wellness and the Tribal Administration Center, with the new units ready by late summer.
In addition to transitional housing, the Place of Change will also provide an emergency overnight shelter for those not yet committed to long-term recovery. By providing a welcoming, supportive environment, the tribe hopes to encourage the first steps toward recovery.
“Imagine someone just seeking refuge from the cold for a night but, in the morning, finding a support system ready to help them,” Burwell said. “That’s the model we want to create—where every contact can be a bridge to long-term care.”
Expanding Care, Building Partnerships
The tribe is also creating a network of support that transcends the reservation through partnerships with nearby recovery resource centers and involvement in wider Indian Country and statewide efforts.
The North Kitsap Recovery Resource Center in Poulsbo, for example, has invited Suquamish Wellness staff to provide drop-in services at their facility, expanding the reach of tribal care to additional locations.
Meanwhile, work continues to create a compre-
hensive Opioid Addiction Treatment Clinic.
“We’re in the infancy of this work,” said the clinic’s project manager Manuel Pablo during the online forum. “We’re in the phase of trying to figure out where the facility will be located here in Kitsap County, but we are moving forward. Our hope is to build this program with multi-specialty services with primary care, dental, behavioral health and chemical dependency, child care, recovery café, all the things that been proven successful in recent years.”
The tribe is also advocating for legislation to extend tribal authority over drug-related crimes committed by non-tribal members on the reservation. This jurisdictional gap often hinders effective legal action against drug dealers operating on tribal land. Efforts to expand jurisdiction, such as those made possible by the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA), reflect the tribe’s commitment to addressing systemic issues that contribute to substance abuse within Native communities.
By Jon Anderson
Holiday Support for Families in Need
Applications available at Human Services for enrolled and descendant children in need this holiday season. Must reside in Kitsap County and apply in-person. Deadline to apply: 4:30pm, Wed. Dec. 4.
Please bring a new, unwrapped gift to distribute to kids before Christmas. Boxes are in the lobby of the Administration Building and the Human Services lobby, now through early December. Organized by Suquamish Warriors and the Marine Corps Reserve.
Who: When: Where:
What: Students and Families wanting to know about paying for college/trade school
Dinner and Presentation; Tabling with supportive organizations; specialists on site to assist with FAFSA/WASFA apps
Thursday Dec. 19 from 5:00-8:30 PM * Dinner Provided * The Suquamish House of Awakened Culture 7235 NE Parkway, Suquamish WA Questions?
Contact Olivia Ponce at oliviaponce@suquamish. nsn.us or text/call 360.516.7213
Come and meet our Community Partners: And More!
What We Do
Help to reduce barriers and provide support services/ case management to support all things self-sufficiency.
Who Is Eligible
Add a heading
If you live in our service area AND a re an e nrolled tribal member of any federally recognized tribe.
How Do I Get Started?
Contact Yusawiac 477 program Youth Development Specialist (Olivia Ponce)to schedule an intake.oliviaponce@suquamish.nsn.us Phone: 360. 516. 7213
Corner
Elders
The Elders Las Vegas trip in October was fun for all! We had the Cabana Bunch that hung out at the pool every day and rode inner tubes down the Lazy River — such a treat to have 84-plus degree weather in October! A large group of Elders attended the Indian National Finals Rodeo; it was exciting to watch the bronco busters, calf-tying, and other events. A big thanks to Elder Chrystal Parsons for getting us reduced-priced tickets. The Rodeo announcer gave a big shout-out to our Suquamish Elders, and had us do a singalong to “Sweet Caroline.” The Belmont cousins (Elders Tracy Tabafunda, Michelle Lanning, and Melissa Lund) danced & sang their hearts out. There were a few big winners at the MGM Grand Casino, but we cannot give out their names. Remember: what happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas. What a fun time we had during an Elders Lunch in November. Teacher Layah Baze brought her ELC classroom to join our lunch. The children gifted each Elder a package Chex Mix and cards they made with their precious little hands. Elder Lillian “Eanie” Abler and her kitchen team made spaghetti that the kids just raved about. Della was entertained with stories from Allie Rose, Diego, and Thiago that made her chuckle. It warmed our hearts to receive their tiny hugs as they said goodbye. We hope Ms. Baze and her classroom return real soon, or maybe our Elders could visit the ELC for lunch.
Tom Curley hosted a pie-baking class for the Elders at the Elders Kitchen. We made a Thanksgiving pumpkin pie using his special crust recipe (it has vinegar and Montana Wheat flour in it) and added chopped walnuts to the pumpkin base. Most of us already ate our delicious pies, so we will have to bake more for the holidays.
Sending heartfelt condolences to Geraldine Joe, aka “Gerly”, for the loss of her longtime partner, Doug Moses (Muckleshoot). Rest in Peace, Doug.
Remember to keep our hospitalized Elders close to your hearts this month and include them in your prayers.
(continued)
We give thanks for all of our family and friends that will be with us during the holiday season, and have fond remembrances of those who have passed. Happy Holidays to all!
Happy Trails to you, until we meet again, and remember KINDNESS to the Human Race.
Della Crowell & Melissa Lund Elders Program
Important info on Social Security and Medicare
HealthBenefits must receive your current year’s Social Security letter to reimburse you for your Medicare Premium deducted from your monthly Social Security payment. After January 31, 2025 no reimbursements will be sent until we have your 2025 Social Security Letter on file. You must be enrolled in Health Benefits and reside in one of the covered counties to receive this reimbursement.
Due to Medicare Premiums changing each year we must have your annual Social Security letter before we can reimburse you. Social Security sends this letter out to you every November, December or January. Once we receive this letter you will be reimbursed the Medicare Monthly Premium deducted from your monthly Social Security check. If we don’t receive your letter by February or later, we will reimburse you for the previous months back to January of that current year.
These reimbursements are sent out by Finance along with your Elder’s payments.
If you have misplaced your letter, we can help! Come see us and we can help request a new copy.
From the desk of The Traditional Heritage Specialist
Happy Holidays and Happy New Year!
I returned to work on Nov. 12, just in time for lots of rain and cold weather. There is work being done here on electrical, and so we are having to make sure to turn off things at night. Also new to me, my desk phone has died, so I currently only have my cell phone for contact, which is (360) 340-0206. Please call it should you need to speak with me or email me at mjones@suquamish.nsn. us.
I am so happy to be back and networking and using the larger screen to see everything! I have so many things to catch up on, and it is a great time to be able to see everyone again. If you are in the office, stop by and say hello.
For the new year, I hope to start with inter-
OPEN ENROLLMENT
OCTOBER 15th to DECEMBER 7th
Please reach out to Dawn at (360) 394-7138 or densminger@suquamish.nsn.us or Health Benefits (360) 394-8424 health_benefits_email@Suquamish.nsn.us
views and to find funding to make a video or maybe even a book from the interviews we have to share with the generations to come.
I would also like to have your ideas on how to get more involvement from you all in interviewing more families as stories of generations, favorite things they do together, camping, etc. Maybe have some pictures to look at during the interviews so we can talk about who is in them and what the event was and when it was, what was going on and the dates.
Please think about these ideas and let me know how you feel about these things and other ideas for interviews.
Thank you, Marilyn G. Jones Traditional Heritage Specialist
Top two photos: The Elders can’t stop talking about all the fun they had in Vegas. Below: Elders were the first to be offered clams and oysters during this month’s distribution.
Suquamish Tribe opens new Clearwater Market in Poulsbo
The Suquamish Tribe welcomed customers to its first off-reservation retail market in Poulsbo Nov. 19 with a grand opening ribbon-cutting ceremony featuring traditional song and dance and a prayer of blessing over the new endeavor. See the Suquamish Tribe website for more details and video coverage of the event.
Suquamish Tribe Healing House
Now Accepting NEW PATIENTS
Offering primary care for adults and children, chronic disease management, preventive visits, women’s health, naturopathic medicine. Call for info: 360-394-1350
Frequently Asked Suquamish Housing Questions
How do I become eligible for a Suquamish Tribal Low Income (HUD) house?
Applicants must be at least 18 years of age, an enrolled member of a federally recognized Indian Tribe, be low income, and must consent to a criminal background check. Once an applicant is determined to be eligible, the applicant is placed on the waiting list.
What is the difference between Fair Market Rentals and Low-Income Housing?
Rental tenants are responsible for minor maintenance such as yard work. Non-routine maintenance and repairs are the responsibility of DCD.
How do I get a copy of Housing Policies? How and where do I apply for tribal housing?
The Fair Market rental program is a month-to-month rental program for Suquamish Tribal Member families who do not qualify for the low-income housing program. The tribe rents units at a lower rate than local area markets for homes of similar style, size, and type. For example, one of our two-bedroom units rents for $650 per month while a similar sized unit in this area rents for as much as $2,300 per month.
HUD Homeownership and HUD Rental units have all of the eligibility requirements listed above and monthly payments are determined by income, which is recertified annually. HUD homebuyers are responsible for all routine and non-routine maintenance.
All current housing policies and applications for both the Low-Income Housing Program (which includes Enetai Townhomes) and the Fair Market Rental program are available from Suquamish Housing Program staff by phone, email, private messages, in person at the tribal offices and through regular mail. Policies that are available by request include: Applicant Eligibility and Admission Policy; Occupancy Policy; Maintenance and Management Policy, Collections Policy; Junk Vehicle Policy; Drug Policy; Termination Policy.
For details, contact any of our Housing staff members: Rachel Nellenbach (360) 394-8418 rnellenbach@suquamish.nsn.us; Lois Sullivan (360) 394-8416 lsullivan@ suquamish.nsn.us; Vicki Cole (360) 394-8419 vcole@suquamish.nsn.us; or Shenowah Purser (360) 394-8423 Spurser@suquamish.nsn.us
By Lois “Lane” Sullivan
DR. KRISTINE EWING, MD, FAMILY MEDICINE
DR. ALEX KRAFT, ND, LAC, NATUROPATHIC DOCTOR & ACUPUNCTURIST
DR. CASEY KERNAN, DO OSTEOPATHIC PHYSICIAN
Enetai Townhomes will soon be ready for tribal members and their families to move in!
December
December 1
Cameron Lawrence
Cassady Hill
Jeffrey Carriere
Katelyn Carper
Landon George
Maverick George
Meadow Sigo-Carr
Mya Smith
Zane Peterson
December 2
Foster Jones
Gabriella Castaneda-Sigo
Heather West
Koebyn Purser
Troy Ayres
December 3
Ana Edelstein
Grace Alexander
Susan Parkhurst
December 4
Kenai Ledesma
Nicholas Hadley
December 5
Cheyenne Colomb
Haylie Mabe
John Villanueva
Lewis Bayne
Sammy Mabe
Victoria Smith
December 6
Dasian Iaconis
Guadalupe O’Brien
Patricia Chargualaf
Robin Middleton
Tiana Lawrence
December 7
Carroll Crowell
Carter Rhodes
Dylan Amick
Sandra Power
Tamara Thomas
Trentin Moss
December 8
Breezy Webster
Eliza Kegel
Wahim Williams Jr.
Walter Vogel
December 9
Andria Golden
Kristina Simons
Mary Webster
December 10
Deantre Rubeck
Samael Pastrana
Sienna Oswalt
December 11
Garnet Mabe
December 12
Adelyn Oswalt
Alicia Yates
Celeste Loneia
Colleen O’Brien
Jeremy Logue
December 13
Connor Valois
Jeddadiah Adams
Shaunie Cordero
December 14
Olivia Ferrara
December 15
Aulora Swift
Joshua Timmerman
Rebecca George
December 16
Brandi Junderson
Danielle Morsette
Jason McClurg-Santos
Martin Talmadge
Mellissa Pondelick
December 17
Sean Crowell
Sierra Sorensen
December 18
David Sigo Jr.
Felician Belmont
Birthdays
December 19
Ashley Boure-Jones
Chandra Nease
Kory Nokes
Logan Mabe
Pierre Perrot
Trey Kumpf
December 20
Donald Jones
Nicholas Alexander
December 21
Arthur Brown
Cedar Smith
December 22
Delmont Ostenberg
James Mabe
Nancy Martinez
Richard Purser
We-Laka Chiquiti Jr.
December 23
Julia Hommel
Tony Snorteland
December 24
Azeneth Solano-Sigo
Bryan Anthony
James Jones
James Suarez
Lisa Jackson
Payton Womack
December 25
Kyle Dozier
Nancy Sigo
Toni Smith
December 27
Amiria Lawrence
Anissa Ostenberg
Brooks Baker
Hadley Simons
Jackson Purser
Patricia Blomberg
Tyee Lawrence
December 28
Lincoln Lawrence
December 29
Amber Boure
Carsyn Maloney
Daniece Williams
December 30
Charissa Sigo
Jackson Orsen
Jacquelyn Cheek
Linda O’Connor
Shelly Marlow
December 31
Anaiya Torres
Asher Brubaker
Desean Santos
Jerry Porter
Randy George
Victoria Welch
Wayne George
DecemberEvents
