Suquamish Tribal Council meets Nov. 3 & 24. Agenda and links sent via SUN Weekly Update & SUN text.
Suquamish Tribal Gaming Commission meets Nov. 4 & 18, 10am at the Gaming Commission Bldg. Call (360) 394-8652 for details.
Suquamish Warriors meets Nov. 4, at 5:30pm at the Warriors Vet Center.
Suquamish Seafoods Board next mtg. Nov. 18. Call Shanel Carlson at (360) 394-8512 for details.
PME Board meets Nov. 12. Contact Emily Sato at emilysato@clearwatercasino.com for details.
Suquamish Museum Board meets Nov. 20, 10amnoon at Museum. For info call (360) 394-8499.
Elders Council meets Nov. 18, 2-4pm at Elders Lodge. Call (360) 394-8417 for details.
Recovery Meetings. All are welcome to recovery meetings, Mon-Fri, 6pm at the Wellness Center.
Community Events
Daylight Saving Time Nov. 2.
Harvest Festival Nov. 8, 12-3. Family & Friends Ctr. Veterans Day Nov. 11. Tribal Govt. closed Culture Night Nov. 12, 5-7pm at Chief Kitsap Academy Commons.
Thanksgiving Nov. 27. Tribal Govt. closed Native American Heritage Day Nov. 28. Tribal Govt. closed.
October was a milestone month for the Suquamish Tribe and its Fisheries Department.
Honoring our Past – The past was honored with the re-dedication of the tribe’s main hatchery, now bearing the name of the late Fisheries legend Merle A. Hayes.
Celebrating our Success – A major environmental success was celebrated with the reopening of salmon habitat along Chico Creek, where long-standing barriers were removed.
Exploring Opportunities – And looking ahead, Fisheries staff are exploring bold plans for a new shellfish hatchery that would expand sustainable harvests for future generations. Amidst all that, dozens of Suquamish Tribal Elders made it out for their last big clam dig the season.
Our coverage begins on page 8.
Suquamish News
Suquamish News is published monthly by the Suquamish Tribe. The publication is mailed to Suquamish tribal members. Copies are also available across the Port Madison Reservation, including tribal government lobbies and retail establishments. Current and back issues can also be found on the Suquamish Tribe website.
The Halloween spirit and creativity was in overdrive this year for the staff costume contest. Congratulations to winners Julie Mace as Winifred Sanderson, TJ Johnson as Elvira, and Nina Old Coyote and Joanna Sharphead as a pair of beaded earrings.
Tribal community members are encouraged to suggest story ideas, photographs, and artwork to be considered for publication. Send your ideas to communications@suquamish.nsn.us or by mail to Suquamish News Editor, PO Box 498, Suquamish, WA 98392. The submission deadline is the 15th of each month.
Suquamish Tribal Council
Leonard Forsman Chairman
Josh Bagley Vice-Chair
Irene Carper Secretary
Andrew George Treasurer
Azure Boure Member
Luther Mills, Jr. Member
Lorilee Morsette Member
Editorial Staff
Leonard Forsman Editor-in-Chief
Catherine Edwards Executive Editor
Erin Bischoff Communications Manager
Jon Anderson Managing Editor
JoAnn Joe Editorial Assistant
Georgia Browne Layout/Design
Reproduction of the Suquamish News, in whole or in part, without written permission from Suquamish Tribe is strictly prohibited.
Copyright 2025
Suquamish Tribe launches community food drive to support families during federal shutdown
By Jon Anderson Suquamish News Staff Writer
As the federal government shutdown stretches into what could become the longest in U.S. history, the Suquamish Tribe is mobilizing to ensure no one in its community goes hungry. Tribal departments are joining forces to collect food and donations for Suquamish families affected by the loss of federally-funded benefits and paychecks.
The initiative is coordinated by the tribe’s cross-departmental Healthy Community team. It aims to help tribal households impacted by the suspension of federal programs like SNAP and WIC, as well as tribal members and their families who depend on paychecks from federal agencies.
In response, the tribe has set up donation boxes for nonperishable foods and is accepting cash contributions during community events. A dedicated fund has been established by the Finance Department to handle community donations.
“We don’t want anyone going hungry,” said Tribal Court Director Alexis Anderson, who is helping organize the effort. “We’re reducing barriers and the stigma that often comes with asking for help.”
Tribal staff kicked off the food and funds drive at the tribe’s annual Halloween “Trunk or Treat” event.
“As we head into the second month of the federal government shutdown, Tribal Council and Tribal Government continue to closely monitor its impact on our community,” the tribe said in a statement.
“SNAP benefits — a program that across America helps 1 in 8 people purchase groceries each month — will no longer be funded as of Nov. 1. We are frustrated and disheartened that federal politics will hurt families in our community who rely on this critical assistance. Our top priority is our tribal members, and we are committed to helping ease the financial strain caused by the ongoing shutdown.”
Organizers are also exploring options for online donations and partnerships with local food programs, including Fishline’s mobile food market, which may soon make weekly visits to the reservation. For those uncomfortable visiting traditional food banks, the tribe is planning smaller “pantries” within departments to discreetly provide food to those in need.
Tribal government programs are working together to coordinate distribution and identify families most affected. While the focus for now is on tribal members and their families, planners say the effort could expand to include the wider community if the shutdown continues.
Costumed kids and parents turned Halloween spirit into community giving as the Suquamish Tribe launched a food drive to help those affected by the federal government shutdown.
During the Oct. 30 “Trunk or Treat” celebration at the Tribal Administration Center, donations piled up in the Suquamish Police Department’s trailer — thanks to all the ghosts, goblins, princesses, and fairies who pitched in.
(Photos by Erin Bischoff )
Not a time to be scared
Suquamish Healthy Communities Presents..
Climate Resiliency team invites tribal voices to shape new Climate Action Plan
By Jon Anderson Suquamish News Staff Writer
The Suquamish Tribe’s Climate Resiliency team is calling on tribal members to help guide the next phase of the Tribe’s sustainability work.
During an Oct. 22 Lunchtime Forum hosted by tribal government Executive Assistant Rosie Bayes, the team shared updates on key projects and invited community members to join a new workgroup that will help shape the Tribe’s Comprehensive Climate Action Plan.
The Climate Resiliency Team — which includes Program Manager Hannah Ljunggren, Specialist Annie Smaus, and Education & Outreach Coordinator Jennie Harlan — outlined the tribe’s progress since the program launched about two years ago and explained how community involvement will shape what comes next.
Among the updates:
• Ductless heat pumps – More than 60 on-reservation Tribal Elders have received fully subsidized ductless heat-pump systems, with electrical-panel upgrades provided when needed. The program has also offered job-shadowing opportunities for interested tribal members.
• Electric vehicles – The Tribe has purchased its first electric vehicle for a car-share program that will allow tribal members to check out and use an EV for everyday errands at no cost. Several new charging stations have been installed around tribal buildings, and the government’s fleet is gradually shifting from gas-powered to hybrid and fully electric vehicles.
• Solar and storage – Solar-feasibility studies are complete, and installations at both residential and government sites are expected soon to strengthen local energy reliability and reduce costs.
Building a community-driven Climate Action Plan
Ljunggren said the team is developing a Comprehensive Climate Action Plan that expands on the tribe’s earlier planning efforts adopted last year. The new plan will identify greenhouse-gas sources, strengthen energy independence, and help future-proof tribal infrastructure while protecting local ecosystems.
To ensure community perspectives are reflected, the team is forming the Suquamish Tribe Community Climate Work Group, which will meet monthly
beginning in January 2026. Members will receive a $50 stipend for each meeting attended.
“This is a great opportunity to make your voice heard and help shape the tribe’s future,” Ljunggren said. “Your input helps us decide what to focus on next.”
Strategic energy plan and community feedback
Harlan discussed a new partnership with the National Renewable Energy Laboratory to develop a strategic energy plan — a free, living document outlining how the tribe can meet its current and future energy needs sustainably.
“This plan helps exercise tribal energy sovereignty,” Harlan said. “It can lower costs, improve reliability, and keep tribal dollars in the community through local jobs and training.”
Tribal members and staff can share feedback through a short questionnaire open until Nov. 30, 2025. Participants will be entered into a prize drawing.
To take the survey, go to: bit.ly/SuquamishSEP
The Lunchtime Forum is returning as a monthly online gathering, available exclusively to Suquamish tribal members to provide updates directly from their tribal government staff.
Participants this month raised ideas for future initiatives, including community composting, rain-barrel projects, and home-charging support for electric vehicles.
Looking ahead
Smaus said current grants do not cover home chargers or reimburse past solar installations but noted that new funding opportunities could be explored if the community identifies those as priorities.
The Climate Resiliency team welcomes continued dialogue. Tribal members can visit the team during open office hours on Tuesdays from 1 to 3 pm at the Fisheries Department offices upstairs in the Tribal Administration Building. Or contact Harlan at: jharlan@suquamish.nsn.us or (360) 394-1402.
If you’re interested in joining the Suquamish Tribe Climate Adaptation Workgroup please use this QR Code to fill out the application
Climate Resiliency Education & Outreach Coordinator Jennie Harlan shows off the Suquamish Tribe’s new EV charging station at the Tribal Administration Center.
Tribal Journey
Suquamish Culture Night honors Canoe Journey volunteers
Suquamish Culture Night returned Oct. 22 with a special honoring of skippers, cooks, and all the other volunteers who helped make Suquamish Tribe’s participation in this year’s Tribal Canoe Journey possible.
Hosted by the Cultural Resources Department in the Old Tribal Center, the evening opened with a shared meal of elk chili prepared by Shawna and Eden Belmont.
Cultural Activities Coordinator Denita Holmes began the evening with words of gratitude spoken in Lushootseed, the Tribe’s ancestral language, inviting participants to reflect on what they were thankful for.
The aroma of elk chili and warm cornbread filled the big gymnasium as Holmes added “We are very thankful for our hunters, our elk, and for everyone who prepared our food.”
Holmes invited attendees to take home gifts carefully arranged across the gym floor — tokens recognizing everyone who helped represent Suquamish on the water, in song and dance and protocol ceremonies, and behind the scenes.
“We all play a huge role representing the tribe,” she said. “Even if you couldn’t be there in person, you’re still part of the journey.”
The evening also featured a slide show prepared by the Suquamish Communications Department, highlighting moments from the 2025 Canoe Journey to the Lower Elwha.
The honoring ceremonies included traditional song and dance and closed with a birthday celebration for Canoe Family co-skippers Ian and Nigel Lawrence.
The next Culture Night is Nov. 12, see below.
Chairman’s Report
By Leonard Forsman Suquamish Tribe Chairman
In October, Suquamish Tribe hosted the Affiliated Tribes of Northwest Indians Annual Conference here at the Suquamish Clearwater Casino Resort. We had previously hosted ATNI for their 2016 Winter and 2019 Annual conferences.
Highlights included a Monday Night Football event with former Seahawks player Kam Chancellor hosted by PME, a Culture Night at Kiana Lodge hosted by the Suquamish Cultural Resources Department, and the Natural Resources Department’s general session presentation on the Chico Creek culvert removal project.
We also had several keynote speakers during the event, including University of Washington President Robert Jones, Washington State University President Elizabeth Cantwell, U.S. Congressional Representative Emily Randall (D-6th District), and Washington State Attorney General Nick Brown.
Thanks to the ATNI Executive Board and the tribal leaders for choosing Suquamish for the annual meeting. Thanks to PME, the Suquamish Cultural Resources Department, and the Suquamish Tribal Council for their support in hosting the meeting.
A New Foundation
The 36th Annual Centennial Accord was held at the Ilani Casino Resort on the Cowlitz Indian Reservation. This was the first Centennial Accord hosted by Governor Bob Ferguson. Discussions between the Governor, his cabinet and policy advisors focused on natural resources, education, economic development, social and health services and the state-tribal relationship.
Ferguson announced he will be signing an Executive Order entitled “A New Foundation for Washington State’s Governmental Relations with Sovereign Tribal Nations” that clarifies and strengthens the state-tribal relationship.
Some of the initiatives found in the Executive Order include requiring that tribal liaisons within state agencies report directly to the agency’s leader, that agencies
review and improve tribal consultation policies and training for state employees on tribal relations.
The Cowlitz Tribe did a wonderful job of hosting the event on their resort property. Vice-Chairman Josh Bagley and I represented the Suquamish Tribe at the Accord.
Representing in Seattle
A delegation of Tribal Council members met with members of the Seattle City Council at City Hall to educate them on the culture and history of the Suquamish Tribe.
We also discussed our priorities in respect to treaty resource protection, public education and promoting cultural preservation.
We look forward to our continuing relationship as we work together to honor our heritage and values as expressed by our ancestral leader Chief Seattle for whom the city was named.
Setting priorities in Kitsap
The Kitsap Regional Coordinating Council held their annual retreat at Gold Mountain Golf Course. County, city, port and tribal officials met to discuss the future growth of the county. The main subject of discussion was in regard to the need for additional housing to meet the population allocations developed to meet the county’s projected growth.
Poulsbo and Port Orchard have developments under or near construction within their urban growth areas. We continue to insist that the growth be sustainable with our need to protect the ecosystems that sustain our traditional fisheries and food gathering.
Celebrating success on Chico Creek
The Suquamish Tribe hosted a ceremony acknowledging the completion of the Chico Creek Culvert removal project at State Route 3. Tribal, state and county officials attended the event to acknowledge the long journey taken to complete this effort.
Chico Creek is now open for wild chum salmon to return to their ancient spawning grounds, following the removal of several major barriers. Culverts at Kitty Hawk Drive, State Route 3, and Golf Club Road have all been removed and replaced with bridge spans, restoring the creek’s natural flow.
Thanks also go to Chief Kitsap Academy Song & Dance for offering songs to bless the event, and to Azure Bouré for preparing a traditional meal for everyone to enjoy.
Sharing the Suquamish story
I also represented the Suquamish Tribe at four ceremonial events.
Quincy Square in downtown Bremerton honors the legacy of music producer Quincy Jones who spent his
early childhood in Bremerton. The Square includes interpretive panels on Jones’ life and the history of Bremerton. Included in that are new panels describing the history of the Suquamish Tribe. Thanks to Stephanie Trudel, Suquamish Tribal Historic Preservation Officer, for her help on this project.
A family in Port Orchard dedicated a totem pole erected at their home that was carved by the Dylan Sanidad, who is the son of well-known carver David Boxley. This was his first commissioned work. I provided some words acknowledging the Suquamish Tribe’s ancestral presence in the area during the dedication ceremony.
I was honored to attend the Suquamish Tribe’s Elders Honoring at Kiana Lodge. This was a well-attended and well-organized event. Thanks to the staff at Human Services, the Elders Council, and the Kiana Lodge staff for their hard work and preparation. And also thanks to Vice Chairman Josh Bagley for giving the welcome.
Remembering a champion of Indian Country
I traveled with Port Madison Enterprises CEO Rion Ramirez to the Oneida Indian Reservation in Wisconsin to attend the memorial for the recently passed Chairman of the Indian Gaming Association Ernie Stevens Jr.
Ernie was a champion for Indian Country especially for youth, women, and families. He supported intertribal organizations like ATNI and NCAI and inspired tribal leaders to keep up the fight for tribal sovereignty. He will be missed but not forgotten.
Coming up
I’m looking forward to welcoming the National Congress of American Indians to our ancestral lands in Seattle for the 82nd Annual Convention and Marketplace, Nov. 16–21 at the Seattle Convention Center. This year’s gathering comes at a critical time when tribal nations are working hard to protect sovereignty, defend our rights, and prepare the next generation to lead. The convention offers a chance for us to come together in the spirit of collaboration — to share our successes, confront our challenges, and speak with one voice on issues that affect us all.
Delegates, youth, and partners from across Indian Country will take part in discussions that shape our shared path forward, while the Marketplace will showcase the creativity, talent, and entrepreneurial spirit that strengthen tribal economies and cultural identity.
It will be an honor to welcome our friends from across the country and take part in conversations that will guide our shared future.
Tribal Elders gather for annual honoring celebration
Suquamish Tribal Elders were honored on Oct. 9 at Kiana Lodge. Hosted by Human Services staff, Tribal Council Vice Chairman Josh Bagley welcomed nearly 300 Elders, including representatives from tribes throughout the region. Elder Veterans were given a special salute and students from Chief Kitsap Academy Song & Dance offered a selection of traditional songs, while dozens of prizes were raffled off throughout the day.
Honoring our past
The legacy of Merle Hayes lives on at Grovers Creek
By Jon Anderson Suquamish News Staff Writer
Merle Hayes was the kind of man who could make a room erupt in laughter just when tensions were highest. A Suquamish fisherman to the core, he was quick with a story, quicker with a joke, and known for helping anyone who needed a hand — whether it was a young fisherman in need of a skiff, a coworker navigating tribal politics, or a new hire learning how to clean crab.
His humor and generosity carried him through decades of work defending treaty rights, restoring salmon runs, and mentoring the next generation of Suquamish fishers.
That spirit was celebrated Oct. 28 at Suquamish Tribe’s main hatchery on Grovers Creek between Suquamish and Indianola, where some 75 tribal community members gathered to unveil a new sign officially marking the facility’s new name: the Merle A. Hayes Salmon Hatchery.
Attendees included Hayes’ family, tribal leaders, including representatives from Tribal Council and Elders Council, current and former Fisheries staff, as well as nearly a dozen Kitsap Poggie Club hatchery volunteers.
Although the name change was officially adopted three years ago after Hayes passed in 2022 at the age 80, the new sign now makes the change tangible — serving as a welcoming reminder of the man who devoted so much of his life’s work to salmon recovery.
Ceremony marks legacy of service
Chairman Leonard Forsman opened the dedication by recalling how the hatchery has stood for nearly half a century as a cornerstone of the tribe’s salmon-restoration efforts.
“I just have a lot of memories of being here as a young person working on this project in the Summer Youth Program,” he said, noting that the site has long symbolized Suquamish stewardship of the runs that sustain both culture and economy.
Known for most of its history simply as the Grovers Creek Hatchery, it was one of the first tribal hatcheries established in the wake of the 1974 Boldt Decision affirming tribal fishing rights in Washington state.
Forsman reflected on the post-Boldt-decision years when tribes first began building hatcheries to restore collapsing salmon populations largely due to habitat choking roadway culverts that blocked salmon from spawning. “We saw the need for enhancement because the runs had been so damaged,” he said. “We started to seek money from the federal government to build facilities like this in order to restore the salmon runs so our tribe and other tribes would have an opportunity to have a better harvest.”
Vice Chairman Josh Bagley, who serves as policy liaison to the Treaty Rights Protection Division, said the renaming was fitting recognition for Hayes’ work at both the local and regional level. “At a Northwest Indian Fisheries Commission meeting this morning, the chairman brought up Merle’s name,” Bagley said. “He reminded everyone that when Merle Hayes got up and talked, people listened. That’s the kind of respect he had among all the tribes.”
A hatchery with deep roots
Built under the leadership of longtime fisheries manager Paul Dorn and a crew that included Randy Hatch and Tony Forsman, the facility quickly became one of the most productive in Indian Country. The hatchery now releases millions of salmon into Puget
Sound every year, strengthening the runs that tribal and non-Native fishers alike depend upon, not to mention Orca and other marine mammals as well.
“Paul worked seven days a week, put his heart and soul into this place,” said Fisheries Director Rob Purser. “It’s always been one of the more successful hatcheries in Indian Country, and Merle was a big part of its story — from the fishing fleet to enhancement to his later work in fisheries diplomacy. He set a high standard for everyone who followed.”
Remembering Merle
Speakers at the ceremony painted a vivid portrait of a man equally respected for his leadership and his mischievous humor.
Council Member Jay Mills told of his early fishing days, when Hayes lent him a fishing skiff and —true to form — provided an unforgettable lesson about preparedness. “We had the boat and the trailer but not the gas tank,” Mills laughed. “We rigged something up, got out there, and what do we do? We drift right into Merle’s boat.”
As Mills began to work in tribal government and playing role in Fisheries’ work, he recalled Hayes as “always fun, always helping, always ready with a joke when things got dark in negotiations.”
Mike Huff worked beside Hayes for years. “I called him a mischievous imp. He was always up to something,” said Huff. “He was always stirring the pot.” Yet beneath the light-hearted pranks was deep wisdom. “He was the guy I would go to if I was having personnel issues and he would give me
SUQUAMISH NEWS
perspective on how think it through.”
Former Fisheries scientist Jay Zischke remembered countless long drives and late-night meetings with Hayes during preseason negotiations. “Those meetings could go on for months,” he said. Zischke recounted one late-night standoff over Hood Canal fishing rights, when after hours of stalemate Hayes broke the tension with a one-liner that sent the room into laughter. “It was classic Merle,” Zischke said. “He could bring everyone together and remind us we’re still people in this work.”
Family tributes
Hayes’ daughter Bonita Hayes-Palafox spoke of growing up around the hatchery and seeing her father calm angry rooms with prayer and humor. “He just brought a calmness over the room,” she said. “It was a testament to how he was as a person—everywhere he carried himself in life.” She thanked the tribe and longtime coworker Kim Kumpf, calling the dedication “a proud moment for our family.”
Hayes’ sister Margaret Henry-Hayes recounted the family’s return to Suquamish from Tulalip decades ago to pursue stronger fishing rights. She described her brother as “an encyclopedia when it came to fishing and Indian rights,” a man who “could talk to anybody — he was the same person no matter who you were.” Though he only had a third-grade education, she said, “he could talk to the President of the United States and hold his own.”
His nephew Christian Lawrence recalled working late nights in Tribal Government offices and finding his uncle still showing up for work even near the end of his career. “He cared about everybody,” he said. “He’s still with us here right now.”
The new Merle A. Hayes Salmon Hatchery sign, now welcoming visitors on Indianola Road, is built on durable composite material. It features raised lettering, incorporating a Salish-style basket pattern created by Suquamish Tribal Elder Peg Deam called “Salmon Gills.”
The logo, featuring two spawning salmon, was designed by Native artist Joe Ives.
Hatchery staffer Heather Schultz designed the sign in collaboration with the Suquamish Communications Department’s Georgia Browne.
Celebrating our successes
Fish passage improvements help restore Chico Creek
By Erin Bischoff Suquamish News Staff Writer
Rob Purser was in grade school when State Route 3 was built in Kitsap County. During the construction, Chico Creek — the largest native chum salmon stream in the county — was permanently rerouted into a man-made channel, forcing it to cross under the road through two eight-foot-wide culverts.
“I spent a lot of time at Chico Creek when I was younger, and I didn’t realize the damage the new road would have on it,” said Purser, the Suquamish Tribe’s Treaty Rights Protection Director.
For more than 50 years, the culverts curtailed Chico Creek’s waterflow, making it less than hospitable to salmon and other wildlife.
But a few weeks ago, Purser stood before a crowd gathered along Chico Creek and celebrated the completion of recent fish passage improvements.
“This has been a dream of mine for a long time,”
Purser said. “And it turned out far better than I could have imagined.” Thanks to advocacy efforts by Suquamish and other tribes, the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) re-imagined the flow of Chico Creek, while maintaining the traffic flow on one of Kitsap’s busiest roads.
“We recognized that our Highway 3 fish barrier was the lynch pin to opening over 22 miles of fish habitat in the Chico Creek Watershed,” said WSDOT Fish Passage Delivery Director, Kim Rydholm.
“Success to us is to be able to stand here along with the Suquamish Tribe and celebrate both salmon and the habitat that is now restored,” she said.
The three-year-long project included:
CHICO CREEK ESTUARY — BEFORE
Multiple barriers to fish passage
• Replacing the culverts with a 200-foot-wide opening under the roadway
• Shifting southbound on-and off-ramps to make more room for the tributary
• Habitat enhancements, such as adding woody materials for future log-jams, which slow water speeds and provide places for fish to rest and feed
With salmon returning to local streams and creeks in the fall, now is a great time to explore the restored Chico Creek.
“Salmon recovery is long and hard work,” said Kitsap County Commissioner Katie Walters. "But moments like this show us what is possible. When we work together, we restore more than streams, we restore connections between people and place, the past and future, and the community and environment.”
CHICO CREEK ESTUARY — AFTER Fish passage improvements
For 50 years, Chico Creek’s waterflow was curtailed by
Exploring new opportunities
Suquamish Tribe explores plans for new shellfish hatchery
By Jon Anderson Suquamish News Staff Writer
Suquamish Tribe is exploring options to build a shellfish hatchery that would position the tribe as one of the few seed providers in the region, buttressing and expanding efforts to enhance sustainable harvests for tribal fishers.
A proposed plan would create a $35 million, 20,000-square-foot facility near the existing Suquamish Seafoods plant and Old Tribal Center on Sandy Hook Road, overlooking Agate Passage. It would produce manila clam, oyster, and geoduck seed to support tribal harvests, restoration projects, and aquaculture research. Plans also include a teaching lab and multipurpose office space on the second floor.
Fisheries Shellfish Program Manager Viviane Barry said the idea has been years in the making and grew out of the tribe’s steady success reseeding beaches with hatchery-grown shellfish purchased from outside suppliers.
“So why build our own shellfish hatchery? A Suquamish shellfish hatchery would give the tribe the capacity to address needs related to fisheries and economic development,” Barry said in an Oct. 6 briefing on the proposal to Tribal Council “It would secure independence from existing local hatcheries where the demand exceeds supply, so those hatcheries often just serve themselves. With its own hatchery, Suquamish could control its own supply, seed timing, and even the genetic lines to best match local conditions,” she said. Fisheries Director Rob Purser said the hatchery would also sustain and strengthen the tribe’s fisheries for future generations while also supporting today’s clam diggers.
“This will definitely increase the harvestable pounds we get each year and provide a real benefit for the diggers we have now and the younger ones coming up,” Purser said. “You can make $400 in one tide — it’s an important way to help families supplement their income.”
Funding for the hatchery would largely come from settlement funds, state and federal grants, and potential private and institutional donors.
“We’ve never done a capital campaign this large. Do we want to try and see who’s out there?” asked Suquamish Foundation Director Robin Little Wing Sigo. “People want to join what Suquamish does. So the majority of it is finding these grants, finding these
people who want to buy into what the tribe is doing.”
Chairman Leonard Forsman said the project will likely become more essential over time.
“Is this a luxury or a necessity? It almost feels like right now this is a luxury — this isn’t something we need to do this weekend or by the end of the year, but it’s going to become more of a necessity as time goes on,” he said.
Good Day for a Dig!
Dozens of Tribal Elders – along with their tribal member helpers – pulled hundreds of pounds of clams out of the low tide beaches along Chico Bay on a beautiful Oct. 6 morning. Elders' Digs are organized by the tribe’s Fisheries Department, Elders Program, and Suquamish Seafoods.
By Mark Williams Chief of Police
I’dIn Service
Dispatches from the Suquamish PD
like to start by highlighting the impending darkness. To borrow a phrase from the series Game of Thrones, ‘Winter is coming’ and we need to be ready.
So, change those wiper blades, check the tread on your tires, get that generator tested, and keep your devices charged. Please help us help you stay out of the ditch.
With the coming of winter also comes shorter days – the sun rises later and sets earlier – so watch out for our littles as they go about their littleing.
We here at your police department really and truly want to hear from you, we welcome your comments by phone, text, email, and even stopping by.
Speaking of stopping by, we will be hosting a community breakfast again soon. The weather probably won’t be the best but our lobby and office
is always warm and we want to welcome everyone into your Suquamish PD.
With community support we have chosen several new officers to replace those who had chosen to move on to other pastures. We’d like you to meet them. In the meantime, I hope everyone is seeing the introduction posts I’m doing on the Suquamish Police Department Facebook page.
Lastly, you may have noticed we’ve recently acquired, at zero cost to the tribe, a traffic message trailer, as well as two hand-held LIDAR devices and an amazing de-escalation tool for each officer that I will introduce once we have completed the training.
Let’s enter this time of year together as partners with all of us working toward a safer Port Madison Reservation.
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.
Suquamish Tribe Wellness Center at
394-7139 or (360) 3948558. We are here for you.
Tortilla Soup Coleslaw
Beverages : Choice of 1% Milk or Lactose Free Milk. Occasional substitutions may be necessary.
Tossed
Elders
Corner
By Della Crowell, Melissa Lund, & Antonia Ewing Elders Program
Thisyear’s Northwest Native American Weaving Association Conference at Muckleshoot was attended by several of our Elders. It was great to see Dolores Mills drop by to visit. The event was two days of making baskets, jewelry, and other items. Our Elders’ shuttle driver Erik McIntyre celebrated 22 years working for the tribe that Saturday — we appreciate him!
Our Elders Clam Dig on Oct. 6 was an historic one with over 60 Elders attending! Many clams were dug (thank you to our tribal diggers), but alas, no pearls were found. The weather was unseasonably warm. Elder Dickie Johnson taught us about “wishing” rocks, which have white bands around them.
We attended two Elders Honorings in October. Our own Suquamish honoring was at Kiana Lodge, and the other was hosted by the Puyallup Tribe.
At Kiana Lodge we had wonderful food, with apricot chicken, pot roast, and a steamed clam table. Our own Dolores Mills and Ed Carriere won Eldest Woman & Man. We had some laughs during the raffle. Elder Kippie Joe won a men’s travel kit, and Elder Penny Terwilliger won so many gifts that she started hiding behind her hands when her name was called — lucky lady!
Thank you to Elder Kippie Joe, Sandie Bender (mom of Elder Peggy Snow), and Jaya Sigo (wife of Elder Dave Sigo) for donating raffle gifts. Thanks also to Irene Carper at PME, who donated our Grand Prizes: Two nights at Clearwater Resort, and restaurant gift certificates. Hands raised to Kiana Lodge manager Hailey Ferrell and her staff, our Human Services teams, the Suquamish Warriors, CKA Drum, Song, & Dance, and others who made the event a success.
The second Elders honoring was at Emerald Queen Casino in Tacoma. Elders were encouraged to tell of their Sasquatch sightings, and to participate in a dance called “Boots on The Ground.” It was great to seeing Elders Sheri Wilson, Dickie Johnson, Tracy Tabafunda, Geraldine Joe, Kippie Joe, and Donna Sigo kicking up their heels or singing along.
Many of our Elders won raffle gifts, but we think the fix was in on one of them. Elder Della Crowell won an astonishing five times, she even took home one of the grand prizes, a three-wheeler! Somebody better investigate this! This year, we mixed things up for our Elders
Halloween Party and joined forces with the wonderful S’Klallam Elders Program at their cozy facility in Port Gamble! It was such a treat — over 50 happy partygoers came out to celebrate in style. The costumes were boo-tiful! We had everything from a groovy AC/DC rocker to queens, hippies, zombies, a mischievous ghost, a diaper-clad big baby, Medusa witches, and even a “mob mall” (that’s Patty Medina, who proudly said, “I don’t carry guns — I’m a lover, not a fighter!”). Costume Contest Winners were Linda O’Connor 1st Place, Patty Medina 2nd Place; Jimmy Forsman 3rd Place.
We played Bingo, had cake walks, and enjoyed a delicious lunch complete with sweet treats, along with laughter all around. We were also blessed to have Dolor Mills say grace before the meal. It was truly a fang-tastic day, and we had an absolute blast teaming up with Misty Ives and Sue Hanna from the Port Gamble S’Klallam Elders Program. Can’t wait to do it again next year!
We extend our sincere condolences to the Peterson family for the loss of Rebecca Peterson. And to Troy, Tony, Sammy & Samantha for the loss of their brother Sean, and also to Kristina Simmons for the loss of her mother, Katherine Pitts. May loving memories bring you peace and comfort.
Our hearts go out to Nancy Johnson and Kathy Kinsey for the loss of their sweet 4-legged girls, Tiki and Angel. May fond memories bring you comfort.
We send prayers to those in need, young or old, those who are hospitalized or in a skilled nursing facility, or those who have had losses or crisis in their families. We are always here if you need to reach out.
Be happy and laugh and play volleyball on Tuesday and Thursday in the Fitness Center gym from 10:30-11:30 am.
Happy Trails to you until we meet again!
From the desk of the
Traditional Heritage Specialist
By Marilyn Jones Traditional Heritage Specialist
Welcome to November and hoping we have happy holidays. I am excited to see all the Elders being out and about preparing for the winter and visiting each other. Keep each other safe and warm. Please check in on one another as the days get shorter and colder. Phone calls to say “hello and how are you” are appreciated by all.
I am working to get my files updated and organized, placing things in order and eliminating dupli-
Medicare Reimbursement
Social Security letter needed now
Suquamish Tribal Elders ages 65 and older who are enrolled in Health Benefits will not be able to get Medicare Premium Reimbursements until Health Benefits has received their new Social Security letter. The deadline to do this is Jan. 31. These reimbursements are sent by Finance with monthly Elder payments.
After Jan. 31, 2026 no reimbursements will be sent until we have your 2026 Social Security Letter on file. You must be enrolled in Health Benefits and reside in Kitsap, Jefferson, King, Mason, Pierce, Snohomish, and Whatcom 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. If you have misplaced your letter – We can help! Come see us and we can help you request a new copy. Please reach out to Dawn at (360) 394-7138 or dostenberg@suquamish.nsn.us or Health Benefits (360) 394-8424 health_benefits_email@Suquamish. nsn.us
This is an example of a Social Security letter:
cates. We have received notices from many colleges, universities, and museums regarding historical items we might have come back to us within the next year, once identification work is completed. This will be a very important and wonderful thing for us. I am working hard to gather information about them. When I know more, I will work with the Elders for help in identifying the Suquamish items. Please watch for details as I receive them.
Please contact me at (360) 394-8525 or mjones@ suquamish.nsn.us for more information or to set up an interview. Thank you!
Bremerton’s Roxy Theatre to Host Indigenous Film Series in Honor of Native American Heritage Month
This November, the historic Roxy Theatre in Bremerton’s Quincy Square will present a three-part Indigenous Film Series, showcasing award-winning documentaries that amplify Native voices, histories, design perspectives, and leadership. In recognition of Native American Heritage Month, the series offers the community a unique, free opportunity to engage with powerful stories and the people behind them.
Each evening will feature a film screening followed by a live discussion with filmmakers and/or film participants, creating a space for dialogue and deeper understanding. The events are free and open to the public, thanks to the generosity of community sponsors and hosts including Rice Fergus Miller, BNBuilders, Far Star Productions, Keoki’s Multi Services, Inc., Bennie’s Jets Fireworks, GLY Construction, Eva’s Wild Salmon, and Lund Opsahl. Support also comes from Ballast Book Company, Red Owl Partners, and Northwest Film Forum. Film Lineup is as follows, with each evening beginning with doors opening at 6:00pm, introduction remarks at 6:45pm, film screening at 7:00pm, and a discussion following the film.
Thursday, November 6 – SUGARCANE
Join us for this powerful Oscar-nominated documentary with director Julian Brave NoiseCat, the first Indigenous North American filmmaker nominated for an Academy Award. Following the screening, NoiseCat will lead a discussion about Sugarcane He will also discuss and sign copies of his new book, We Survived the Night, which will be available to purchase at the event or preorder with ticket reservation. This film is rated R, and children under the age of 14 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.
Thursday, November 13 – FROM EARTH TO SKY
From Earth to Sky explores the work of seven unique and accomplished Indigenous architects as they design and complete extraordinary 'buildings' in cities and communities across North America and Turtle Island. Beautiful and intimate, the film sparks a vital conversation paramount to transforming perspectives on how we approach our built environment. The screening will be followed by a panel discussion with several Indigenous Architects featured in the film.
Thursday, November 20 – FISH WAR
Back by popular demand, this essential documentary returns to the Roxy. The screening will be
followed by a panel of tribal leaders reflecting on the past, present, and future of treaty rights and sovereignty. Copies of Ramona Bennett Bill’s book Fighting for the Puyallup Tribe will be available for purchase from Ballast Book Company at the event.
Attendees will have the opportunity to make an optional contribution to the Roxy Theatre, Kitsap County’s only nonprofit-owned arthouse cinema and live event venue during registration or at the events. The Roxy’s mission is to entertain, inspire, and connect community through the magic of film, live performances, and shared experiences.
INDIGENOUS FILM SERIES
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“This series is about more than film—it’s about listening, learning, and honoring Native voices,” said Michael Goodnow, Executive Director of the Roxy Theatre. “We’re grateful to our sponsors and partners who are making it possible to offer these events to the community at no cost, and we’re thrilled to feature this series here at the Roxy.”
Greg Belding, Principal at Rice Fergus Miller, is one of the event’s organizers and speakers. Greg added, “Our firm has been working with Tribal partners for decades. We’re thrilled to help bring this series to the Roxy, in the heart of the newly opened Quincy Square. Elevating Indigenous Voices is something we are passionate about, and this film series fits squarely with that mission.”
Sponsorship opportunities are still available for businesses and organizations wishing to support the event series, and free tickets are available to be reserved now at bit.ly/3J0v9mo. The Roxy Theatre Bremerton is located at 270 4th St, Bremerton, WA 98337.
For details, visit www.roxybremerton.org.
About The Roxy Theatre in Bremerton, WA
The Roxy Theatre is a nonprofit foundation whose mission is to entertain, inspire, and connect community through the magic of film, live performances, and shared experiences. In addition, the foundation provides access and support for community entities that could utilize the Roxy for various projects and endeavors, including the arts, public policy, community engagement, nonprofit projects and whatever appropriate community activities might benefit from access to the venue. With almost 500 seats and state-of-the-art technology including HD Laser Projection and Dolby Surround 7.1, it also hosts community events and live music. Adding to the experience is a full traditional theater concession stand also serving beer, wine, & spirits. Learn more at www. roxybremerton.org.
November
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November 1
Chalakwatud Chiquiti
Jose Gomez
Rayn Hendricksen
Scot McPhee
Wilsie Hawk
November 2
Nicholas Bambino
Savannah Ranes
Windy Anderson
November 3
Antonia Ewing
Carlos Virella
Hali-aleetsah Deam
Jazzmyne Bledsoe
Jeffrey Thomasson
Krystal George
November 4
Bryn Saunders
Hazel Ginn
Jayden Johnson
Joshua George
November 5
Ali’Rose Hawk
Jayden Sigo
Jill Howard
Sebastian Pool
November 14
Bethany Womack
Gregory George
November 6
Jenavieve Old CoyoteBagley
JoAnn Joe
Julian Rodriguez
November 7
Charles Houghan IV
Vince Peterson
November 8
Ivy Heembrock
Tara McNally
Travis Demain
November 9
Andrew Vejar
Camry Pratt
Susan Henry
November 15
Aliana Chiquiti
Ethan Willis
Marlin George III
Nathanial Pratt
Ryan Cobb
Xavier Medina
November 16
David McPherson
Michael Pelch
Quelisha Brealan-Bayes
November 17
Donna Sigo
Marlayna Old Coyote
Christopher Santos
Heather Hoffman
Isaiah Devore
Krystopher Hyatt-Tansill
Kyler Planck
Maiha Campana
Tyler George
November 10
Alec Leva
Brooklyn Ives
Frances Whitehead
Hendrix Wilson
Marta Belmont
Michele Myers
Torri Rubeck
November 11
Jason Napoleon
Jennifer Hess
November 12
Augustina Purser
Ava Snow
Vernelle Trevathan
November 13
Kathryn Johnston
Ryan George
Shawn Hawk Jr.
Thomas Cordero Jr.
November 18
Patricia Vollenweider
November 19
Alaric Jackson
Angelia Cordero
Avery Purser
November 20
Brenda Anderson
Ezra Mabe
Kiera Swift
Madison Cordero-Edgley
November 22
Duwayne Oakman
Mellene Kurtz
Sequoia Chargualaf
November 23
Aaron Nelson
Alexander Warner
Elowen Hirschy
Hannah Glaze
Kana’i Lawrence
Richard Bailey
Sheri Wilson
November 24
Clifford Adams
Ethel Jones
Kristen Caldwell
Skyler Bakken
November 25
Amanda Stieger
Jace-Anthony Adams
Krista Cornn
Michelle Brown
Rachel Nellenbach
River Alexander
November 26
Marilyn Jones
Staci Ivester
November 27
Armando Chavez
Brandon Smith
Elijah Covarrubias
Elilai Abraham
Erik Alexander
Kale Kalahan
William Jones IV
November 28
Charles Lawrence
Cory Winnie
Luther Mills III
November 29
Azure Boure
Kiarra Armstrong
Talynn Marquez
November 30
Alycia Covarrubias
Rudolph Smith
November 2025 HOLIDAY EVENTS
HOLIDAY BAZAAR: Nov. 23 from 10am to 4pm. Support Local Artists & Crafters to find one-of-a-k ind gifts. Discover unique, handcrafted treasures for everyone on your gift list!
THANKSGIVING BUFFET: Nov. 27 from 11am to 4pm. Buffet Reservations required. Call 360-598-8700 ext . 875. Indulge in chef-crafted favorites like herbroasted turkey with sage gravy, maple-Dijon salmon with toasted pecans, prime rib au jus, and a tempti ng desserts
HOLIDAY TREE LIGHTING: Nov. 28, time varies, check website for details. Gather together with family an d friends to witness the magical lighting of our breathtaking 40-foot holiday tree! Watch as it twin kles with thousands of lights, shining brightly to make this a truly Festive Night to remember.
JINGLE BELL BRUNCH: Nov. 29, 11am to 2pm. Tickets required. Get festive at the Jingle Bell Brunch featuring a special feast and visits from Santa, th e Grinch and other fun characters. Indulge in a grand buffet, decorate a custom ornament, and snap a photo in front of our cheerful holiday backdrops.
