qyuuqs News March 2024

Point Elliott Treaty Marker

NOTE

“Those who learn to listen to the world that sustains them can hear the message brought forth by the salmon.” -Billy Frank Jr.

The March qyuuqs features articles for the 50th anniversary of the Boldt Decision. This issue's cover is the Point Elliott Treaty marker at Mukilteo.

Last month’s General Council is featured on PAGE 10-11. "Swinomish Demands Action from the EPA" is on PAGE 5, and an update regarding the Olympic Pipeline gasoline spill in Conway is on PAGE 33.

March community events include the Environmental Learning Series workshop "The Flats: Salmon Habitat Restoration and Land Use Planning" at the NWIC Swinomish Campus on Tuesday, March 12, at 11 a.m. The K-5 Education Dinner is Thursday, March 21, 5:30 p.m. at the Boys & Girls Club.

The idea of identity theft is scary. I've personally experienced how terrifying it can be and have written an article about my ongoing battle to win my identity back on PAGE 34. I hope my story encourages you all to take every possible precaution to avoid falling victim to it.

I hope you enjoy reading the March qyuuqs News.

Caroline Ammons goliahlitza

Point Elliott Treaty Marker

January 22, 2024

Treaty Day

Moon When Frog Talks

waQwaQus (WAK-WAK-oos)

Late February/March is the "moon when frog talks," signaling the coming of spring. This is the time for harvesting herring and smelt. Herring are prepared in many ways – whole herring are threaded onto green twigs and dried, herring oil is collected and used to season food, and the roe is also eaten. Herring roe in the tidelands attracts flocks of ducks and snow geese. Ducks are valued as a source of grease, which is collected when the duck is cooked over an open-spit fire, the duck oil dripping into an open clamshell. During this moon and through the next two moon halibut fishing starts, but the seas are still rough so activities are more focused on hunting elk and deer.

The roots of Sitka spruce, red-cedar, and Oregon grape are collected for the inner bark, which is split and bundled for later use in making and dyeing baskets. Edible plants are also collected – the bark of serviceberry, giant horsetail shoots, and tiger lily bulbs are dug up to eat raw or boiled. In freshwater marshlands, the cattail roots are dug and boiled or dried, then pulverized into flour. Stinging nettles are also collected, and the leaves cooked for tea.

Excerpt from ‘13 Moons: The 13 Lunar Phases, and How They Guide the Swinomish People’

By swelitub (Todd A. Mitchell) and

Jamie L. Donatuto

TRIBAL SENATE

yal le ka but

Steve Edwards, Chairman (360) 840-5768 | sedwards@swinomish.nsn.us

siwelce?

Alana Quintasket, Vice Chair (360) 302-0971 | aquintasket@swinomish.nsn.us

ya qua leouse

Brian Porter | Secretary (360) 840-4186 | bporter@swinomish.nsn.us

taleq tale II

Barbara James | Treasurer (360) 391-3958 | bjames@swinomish.nsn.us

qws stania

Aurelia Bailey (360) 853-6376 | awashington@swinomish.nsn.us

sapelia

Sophie Bailey (360) 853-6458 | sbailey@swinomish.nsn.us

spi sta yup ton

Greg Edwards (360) 854-8612 | gedwards@swinomish.nsn.us

yellakabol

Bruce James Jr. (360)708-5779 | brucejames@swinomish.nsn.us

sa-ba-shal-good

Rodney John (360) 708-1387 | rjohn@swinomish.nsn.us

kuts bat soot

Jeremy Wilbur, (360) 770-7447 | jjwilbur@swinomish.nsn.us

kani?ted

Tandy Wilbur (360) 770-3050 | tandywilbur@swinomish.nsn.us

The official news publication of the Swinomish Indian Tribal Community

The mission of qyuuqs News is to provide monthly communication to Swinomish Indian Tribal Community Members near and far. We are committed to serving as an apolitical forum for the Swinomish governing officials and all Community Members. qyuuqs News is not intended to reflect the official position of the governing body at Swinomish Indian Tribal Community but rather reflects the ideas, events, and thoughts of individual Community Members and Tribal staff. As such, the Swinomish Tribe makes no claim as to the accuracy or content of any of the articles contained therein.

QYUUQS MAILING ADDRESS

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*SUBMISSIONS

Send your news tips, stories, and photos to: qyuuqs@swinomish.nsn.us

Submission deadline: 10th day of the month

QYUUQS NEWS

Caroline Ammons, Editor

qyuuqs@swinomish.nsn.us

SWINOMISH COMMUNICATIONS

Heather Mills, Communications Manager

Sarah Kellogg, Content Journalist

Katie Bassford, Staff Photographer

Jordan Ekdahl, Graphic Designer Communications@swinomish.nsn.us

ADVISORY COMMITTEE

Tracy James, John Stephens, Kevin Paul

This issue is available online at swinomish-nsn.gov/qyuuqs

Photos credits: qyuuqs News Staff or as credited. All rights reserved.

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Website: swinomish-nsn.gov

qyuuqs News is a publication of the Swinomish Indian Tribal Community produced by Swinomish Communications.

Swinomish Demands Action from the EPA

La Conner, WA — The Swinomish Indian Tribal Community filed a 60-day notice of intent to sue the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) based on the State Department of Ecology (Ecology) failure to implement a 20-year-old water cleanup plan to address warm stream temperatures in the lower Skagit River that cause ongoing harm to salmon. The notice makes clear that EPA must reinitiate Endangered Species Act consultation on how to ensure that threatened salmon are protected under the clean-up plan.

“The Swinomish people’s way of life and livelihoods, as well as protected treaty rights, have been disrespected and disregarded for years. It is time for this to stop,” said Swinomish Chairman Steve Edwards. “The Skagit River and its tributaries are critical habitat for Chinook recovery in the Puget Sound. We are the People of the Salmon, and these fish are integral to the tribe’s sustenance, culture, identity and economy, yet we no longer have enough to feed our families, and the orcas are starving. Our federal and state natural resource trustees must finally find the political will to act.”

This problem dates back many decades and stems from agriculture and other development along the river and its tributaries that stripped away nearly all the native trees and streamside vegetation that once provided shade and habitat critical for salmon. With streamside vegetation now nearly all gone, temperatures in the lower Skagit River watershed have exceeded water quality standards for over two decades, reaching harmful, often lethal temperatures for salmon and other aquatic life.

Chairman Edwards continued, “I know that we won’t recover water quality that our salmon need in my lifetime, but Swinomish is always thinking about the next seven generations. The EPA and Ecology have refused to use their authorities to get trees replanted along salmon streams for years and the salmon and Swinomish’s Treaty Rights have suffered as a direct result. Today, we say no more. These agencies must follow federal laws and must uphold their trust responsibility and put a plan together with binding commitments that restore stream health for our salmon now,” Chairman Edwards stated.

“The Clean Water Act demands that Ecology implement what the science shows: riparian habitat buffers are essential to protect water quality for salmon,” said Earthjustice Attorney Janette Brimmer. “EPA, in approving Ecology’s plans 20 years ago, relied upon Ecology’s promises, now obviously incorrect, that buffers would be in place by 2020. Those failed promises dictate that EPA and Ecology must go back to the drawing board and ensure a clean-up plan that protects threatened salmon by recovering salmon streams from harmful temperature pollution.”

RECENT SWINOMISH TRIBAL CODE AMENDMENTS

BRIANA PORTER, OFFICE OF THE TRIBAL ATTORNEY

The Swinomish Senate, the governing body of the Swinomish Indian Tribal Community, recently enacted the following code amendments:

Title 23, Chapter 1 – Tribal Tidelands

At the August 2023 Senate meeting, the Senate made revisions to the Tribal Tidelands Code. The amendment revised the following:

‣ Definitions of Department and Director from the Office of Planning and Community Development to the Land Management Department;

‣ Correct Sections referring to ownership of tidelands in Turners Bay;

‣ Modify Prohibited Uses of Tribal Tidelands STC 23-01.130; and

‣ Shorten the timeline for determination of shoreward boundary in STC 23-0 l.200(C)(2)(A).

The Environment and Lands Committee recommended the amendment, which the Senate enacted on August 15, 2023.

The amended code and Constitution are available for review on our website at swinomish-nsn.gov. Paper copies are available for review at the Tribal Court Clerk office or the Office of the Tribal Attorney.

Swinomish Indian Tribal Community General Election Results

FEBRUARY 10, 2024

SWINOMISH ELECTION BOARD

SENATE SEAT 10

Eric Day (111)

Rodney John (175)

No Vote Ballots (8)

SENATE SEAT 11

Myrtle Rivas (124)

Bruce James Jr. (167)

No Vote Ballots (3)

COMMUNITY HAPPENINGS

FRI. MARCH 8

Elder's Lunch & Learn 9-11 a.m. @ Senior Center

TUES. MARCH 12

DEP Environmental Learning Series @11 a.m. @NWIC

THURS. MARCH 21

Education Dinner Grades K-5 @5:30 p.m. @ Boys & Girls Club

TUES. APRIL 9

DEP Environmental Learning Series @11 a.m. @ NWIC

MON. APRIL 22

National Drug Take Back Day

MON. APRIL 29 - THURS. MAY 2

Swinomish Dental Sealant Week

Johnny Dan Sr.

John passed away Saturday, February 3, 2024 in Anacortes, Washington. He was born to Alvin and Pauline Day on January 20, 1961. Johnny grew up in Swinomish, attended La Conner Schools and graduated in 1979.

Johnny loved being a fisherman, he played basketball and football growing up. Socializing and his extracurricular activities. Johnny always had a big smile and could be found with the crew and the love of his life Bonita Quintasket.

Johnny was blessed with his only daughter, Lona Johnson and her mate Joe, two sons Johnny Kennedy Jr., and Albert Dan.

He was blessed with four handsome grandsons who he cherished Hamilton John, Moses, Alec Seymour and Jaydee Dan.

He is proceeded in death by his Mate, Bonita Quintasket, son, John Dan Jr., Parents, Alvin and Pauline Dan, Siblings Dean Dan Sr., Rhonda and Leona Dan. Grandparents Morris and Bertha Dan, Great-Grandparents, Thomas and Christine George, Sam and Amelia Dan.

Great, Great Grandparents Capet Zalsiluce and Julia, numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, and the late crew.

He is survived by his daughter and son in-law, Lona and Joe Johnson, son Albert Dan, Grandsons, Hamilton John, Moses, Alec Seymour, and Jaydee Dan.

Brother Jacki (Debbie) Damien

Sisters, Daisy and Bertha Dan, numerous cousins, nieces, nephews, and the surviving crew and his buddies.

The family would like to thank Janice Joe for always being there for Johnny and thank you for all the love and support during our time of loss.

GENERAL COUNCIL

Bruce James Jr. raises his hands to the people

Jesse Edwards and daughter Lailoni thank the Senate and tribal leaders for the Youth Activities Fund

Lona Wilbur takes the floor to share her concerns

Chairman Steve Edwards swears in newlyenrolled Swinomish members Charles Baker Jr. (with mom Shaelee Starr) and Cassandra Kaubin

OPIOID CRISIS: DECLARATION OF A PUBLIC HEALTH EMERGENCY

JANUARY 16, 2024 – THE SWINOMISH SENATE HAS DECLARED A PUBLIC HEALTH EMERGENCY DUE TO THE ONGOING AND GROWING OPIOID CRISIS THAT THREATENS THE ECONOMIC, CULTURAL, ENVIRONMENTAL, HEALTH, AND SOCIAL QUALITY OF LIFE FOR OUR PEOPLE.

According to the Centers for Disease Control, we are now in the third wave of the opioid epidemic which began in the 1990s. The first wave began with overdoses caused by prescription opioids. The second wave started in 2010 with a rapid increase in heroin overdoses. The third wave began in 2013 with a shift towards overdoses from synthetic opioids, particularly fentanyl. The increase in overdose deaths during the third wave far surpasses those that happened in the first and second waves. Overdose deaths from synthetic opioids have more than tripled since 2015.

As of this year, most Americans have experienced the devastating impacts of the crisis, which is a manmade epidemic caused by the misuse, abuse, and overprescription of opioids, including natural, synthetic, and semi-synthetic opiates. However, Native Americans have disproportionately borne the toll and suffer the highest per capita rate of opioid overdoses nationwide. Since 2018, the rate of American Indian and Alaska Native opioid overdose deaths has increased 174% nationally.

Further, according to data reported by the Washington State Department of Health, Native Americans suffer the highest per capita rate of overdose deaths of any demographic group in the state as a whole as well as in Skagit County. The state’s mortality rate from drug overdoses among American Indians and Alaska Natives is almost three times the national rate and Washington’s total population average.

In the resolution passed on January 16, the Senate requested that local, state, and federal agencies assist the Tribe in addressing this critical situation that threatens the health and safety of our community.

The Swinomish Public Health Officer is to monitor the emergency and work with the Tribe’s Public Health Team, which is comprised of staff and leadership from Swinomish and the didgʷálič Wellness Center who specialize in physical and mental health, social services, policy making, law, and law enforcement, to:

‣ prepare a plan to address the opioid crisis on the Swinomish Reservation;

‣ seek technical assistance and data as needed to accurately identify the scope of the opioid epidemic on the reservation;

‣ coordinate with federal, state, and local partners, including Fire District 13;

‣ conduct studies, surveys, and/or assessments to develop accurate data reports on opioid mortality, morbidity, use of public health resources, and other key public health indicators;

‣ work in close coordination with tribal enterprises, especially the didgʷàlič Wellness Center; and

‣ make recommendations to the Senate and direct staff to carry out elements of any approved action plan.

The Public Health Team and Senate will ensure that ongoing and accurate information is distributed to the tribal community to ensure members understand how they can contribute to addressing the opioid crisis.

Use naloxone to stop a fentanyl overdose.

Someone may be overdosing if they:

• Can’ t wake up.

• Are breathing irregularly or not at all.

• Are making a gurgling sound.

• Are turning blue, gray or purple, or their skin feels cold.

If you think someone may be overdosing, call 911 and give them naloxone (Narcan).

Holle Edwards Honored At State of the State Address

HOW TO USE NALOXONE 1 2 3 4

Lay the person down if they’re sitting or slumped.

Open the box and packaging.

Place the nozzle inside either nostril.

Press the plunger all the way (until it clicks).

If they don’ t respond in 2 or 3 minutes, use another dose. It could take several doses to work. Keep giving them naloxone or do CPR until they wake up or help arrives.

Learn more at ForNativeLives.org

JANUARY 9, 2024, OLYMPIA –Governor Jay Inslee delivered his 10th State of the State address, during which he recognized Holle Edwards with the following:

“We propose $64 million in new spending to fight against opioids and fentanyl. We’re going to invest in education, community health hubs, overdose prevention, treatment access, and recovery supports. We’re going to support people with stories like Holle Edwards, a member of the Swinomish Tribe whose life languished in addiction to meth and heroin before she got help at local resource centers. Holle got her life back — and she’s now a recovery counselor helping people on the same journey at a wellness center in Anacortes. Holle is here today.”

IT IS NOT TOO EARLY TO PLAN THOSE SPRINGTIME CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS!

FROM THE PERMITTING AND LICENSING DIVISION OF PLANNING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT

The weather may be dreary outside, but did you know it is the perfect time to start your planning? There are many reasons to begin prepare now:

‣ Contractor availability – It can difficult to get a good contractor once spring hits because everyone else is working on their projects, too.

‣ Obtaining a permit can take time – Though our process here at Swinomish is much faster than other jurisdictions, reviews still take time.

‣ Scheduling – On average, contractors schedule eight weeks out for most projects.

‣ Product availability – If you fail to plan far enough in advance, you may have to settle for your second or third choices if your first choice is unavailable.

‣ Mistakes made from rushing – Mistakes are made more frequently when there is not enough time scheduled for project completion, or to accommodate the unexpected.

Do I need a building permit?

Building permits are required for any alteration, major repair, or new construction project, including a home, deck, driveway, workshop, garage, or additional living space.

Building a new deck?

A building permit ensures the deck build follows relevant regulations, including building, land use, and environmental protection standards, and it also ensures safety comes first for the community, home owner, and builder.

ATTENTION:

AFTER-HOURS

HOUSING & UTILITY EMERGENCIES

Adding a driveway or expanding the one you have?

A grading and excavating permit in addition to a building permit ensures that any additional impervious surface is accounted for in managing stormwater. These permits also ensure sidewalks are reconstructed for ADA compliance, safe ingress/egress, and measures are in place to reduce vehicle/structure collision.

Converting your garage into living space?

There is a difference in the minimum building requirements for a garage and living space. A building permit will ensure your space is properly converted from non-living to living space.

The Tribe requires ANYONE and EVERYONE to first obtain a building permit before undertaking a renovation for the purpose of enforcing building codes. Codes are designed to ensure that all properties meet minimum safety and structural standards. Obtaining a permit can be done by calling the Swinomish Permitting and Licensing Division at (360) 466-7200 or emailing permits@swinomish.nsn. us, or online at swinomish-nsn.gov/resources/planning. Division staff will be happy to verify your contractor is licensed and bonded during the permitting process.

Did you know? The Swinomish Permitting and Licensing Division also issues business licenses for a low annual fee. Business licenses may also be applied for online at swinomish-nsn.gov/resources/planning/licensing

Permitting and Licensing staff look forward to working with you on all the upcoming projects you have!

MARCH SENATE MEETING

MARCH 5, 2024

During the March Senate meeting, Rodney John and Bruce James Jr. were sworn in to Senate Seat 10 and Senate Seat 11. The Senators congratulated and gave their respects to Eric Day and Brian Wilbur.

The Executive Committee

Chairman, Steve Edwards

Vice Chairman, Alana Quintasket

Secretary, Brian Porter

Treasurer, Barb James

Judge Cardoza, Bruce James Jr., Rodney John

Eric Day, Brian Wilbur

TIDE TABLE: MARCH 2024

Snee-Oosh Point

3 Sun

High

1 Fri

High 7:52 AM 9.8 ft

9:5PM 8.5ft

Low 1:53 AM 5.2ft 2:59 PM 2.0ft

Sunrise: 6:48 AM Sunset: 5:56 PM

2 Sat

High 8:10 AM 9.6ft

11:23 PM 8.5ft

Low 2:27 AM 6.3ft

3:49 PM 1.6ft

Sunrise: 6:46 AM

Sunset: 5:58 PM

8:40 AM 9.4ft

Low 3:17 AM 7.3ft

4:51 PM 1.2ft

Sunrise: 6:44 AM

Sunset: 5:59 PM

10

Sun

4 Mon High

12:51 AM 9.0ft

9:27 AM 9.2ft

Low

5:10 AM 8.1ft

6:02 PM 0.6ft

Sunrise: 6:42 AM

Sunset: 6:01 PM

5 Tues

High

2:03 AM 9.7ft

10:40 AM 9.1ft

Low

7:19 AM 8.1ft

7:11 PM -0.1ft

Sunrise: 6:40 AM

Sunset: 6:02 PM

High

2:54 AM 10.5ft

12:24 PM 9.2ft Low

8:24 AM 7.6ft

8:11 PM -0.8ft

Sunrise: 6:38 AM

High 6:18 AM 12.1ft

6:03 PM 11.1ft

Low

12:20 AM 3.0ft

Sunrise: 7:30 AM

Sunset: 7:10 PM

17

Sun

High

11

Mon High 6:50 AM 12.1ft 7:02 PM 11.2ft

Low

12:25 AM 0.0ft

1:02 PM 1.6ft

Sunrise: 7:28 AM

Tues High 7:22 AM 11.9ft

8:01 PM 11.1ft

1:10 AM 1.3ft 1:46 PM 0.5ft

Sunrise: 7:26 AM

Sunset: 7:13 PM

12:50 AM 9.7ft

10:20A PM 9.2ft

Low

6:03 AM 7.6ft

6:23 PM 0.4ft

Sunrise: 7:15 AM

Sunset: 7:20 PM

24

Sun

High 5:56 AM 10.8ft

5:55 PM 9.8ft

Low

12:06 PM 3.2ft

Sunrise: 7:01 AM

Sunset: 7:31 PM

31

Sun

High 8:15 AM 9.3ft

Low

3:31 AM 7.4ft

3:58 PM 0.6ft

Sunrise: 6:46 AM

Sunset: 7:41 PM

Sunset: 7:11 PM 18

Mon High 2:13 AM 9.8ft 11:40 AM 8.6ft

Low

7:29 AM 7.7ft

7:31 PM 0.6ft

Sunrise: 7:13 AM

Sunset: 7:22 PM

25

Mon

Tues

AM 10.1ft

PM 8.4ft

8:47 AM 7.2ft 8:34 PM 0.7ft

Sunrise: 7:11 AM

High 6:20 AM 10.7ft

6:38 PM 10.0ft

Low

12:06 AM 2.1ft 12:37 PM 2.4ft

Sunrise: 6:59 AM

Sunset: 7:32 PM

Sunset: 7:23 PM 6 Wed

Sunset: 6:04 PM 13 Wed High 7:53 AM 11.6ft

9:03 PM 10.7ft Low

1:55 AM 2.9ft 2:31 PM -0.2ft

Sunrise: 7:23 AM

Sunset: 7:14 PM 20 Wed High

4:02 AM 10.4ft 2:29 PM 8.5ft Low

9:42 AM 6.5ft

9:27 PM 0.7ft

Sunrise: 7:09 AM

High

3:35 AM 11.1ft 1:51 PM 9.6ft Low 9:13 AM 6.8ft 9:04 PM -1.2ft

Sunrise: 6:36 AM

Sunset: 6:05 PM 14

Thurs High 8:24 AM 11.1ft 10:10 PM 10.3ft Low 2:42 AM 4.4ft 3:21 PM -0.4ft

Sunrise: 7:21 AM

Sunset: 7:16 PM 21

Thurs

Sunset: 7:25 PM 7 Thurs

High 4:36 AM 10.6ft 3:31 PM 8.9ft

Low

10:24 AM 5.7ft

10:13 PM 0.8ft

Sunrise: 7:07 AM Sunset: 7:26 PM

8 Fri High 4:11 AM 11.6ft

3:00 PM 10.2ft

Low

9:57 AM 5.7ft 9:53 PM -1.3ft

Sunrise: 6:34 AM

Sunset: 6:07 PM

15 Fri High 8:57 AM 10.5ft

11:26 PM 9.8ft

Low

3:35 AM 5.9ft

4:15 PM -0.3ft

Sunrise: 7:19 AM

Sunset: 7:17 PM

22 Fri High 5:05 AM 10.7ft

4:23 PM 9.2ft

Low

11:00 AM 4.8ft

10:53 PM 1.1ft

Sunrise: 7:05 AM

Sunset: 7:28 PM

9 Sat High

4:45 AM 12.0ft

4:03 PM 10.8ft

Low

10:38 AM 4.4ft

10:40 PM -0.9ft

Sunrise: 6:32 AM

Sunset: 6:08 PM

16 Sat High 9:32 AM 9.9ft

Low

4:41 AM 7.0ft

5:17 PM 0.0ft

Sunrise: 7:17 AM

Sunset: 7:19 PM

23 Sat High 5:32 AM 10.8ft

5:10 PM 9.5ft

Low

11:34 AM 4.0ft

11:31 PM 1.5ft

Sunrise: 7:03 AM

Sunset: 7:29 PM

Sunrise:

Sunrise: 6:52 AM

Sunrise: 6:50 AM

7:38 PM 30

High 7:49 AM 9.5ft 10:49 PM 9.6ft

Low 2:46 AM 6.5ft 3:09 PM 0.6ft

Sunrise: 6:48 AM Sunset: 7:40 PM

Winter Air Quality Concerns:

Winter brings the end of wildfire season, but unfortunately poor air quality can still persist due to stagnation events.

A stagnation event is when the air around us does not move for an extended period of time. This means that anything that enters the air will remain around us for days at a time. Poor air quality often occurs during stagnation events because pollutants build up in the still air. Stagnation events are common in the winter, any idea why? Keep reading to learn what causes them, and why they happen in the winter.

Stagnation events are often associated with clear skies and weaker winds. These events are becoming more common in the winter as climate change pushes our precipitation to the extremes. This causes more intense, shorter rainy periods like the atmospheric river we experienced in December 2023, and longer periods without rain, potentially leading to stagnation events.

Cloud layers trap heat at the surface. Without a cloud layer, the surface cools quickly as soon as the sun sets. This in turn cools the air at the surface and creates a layer of cold air that can’t mix with the warmer layer of air above. Air pollutants like dust, gases, and smoke get trapped in this layer of cooler air near the surface.

Smoke from fireplaces and wood stoves that heat homes is another common source of pollution in winter. If you heat your home with wood, you can reduce the amount of smoke and air pollution by using wood that has a moisture content of 20% or less. Wet wood burns less efficiently, and releases more smoke and pollutants.

This accumulation of pollutants in the air near the surface during stagnation events causes reduced air quality. Individuals with respiratory conditions or who are otherwise sensitive to poor air quality may be affected. Those affected should monitor air quality and reduce their exposure during stagnation events. A few recommendations include: reducing physical activities outdoors, timing outdoor activities around mid-day, monitoring the air quality conditions before any outdoor activities, and making sure to carry any inhalers with you. The Department of Environmental Protection monitors air quality using PM 2.5 sensors, and real-time air quality data from Swinomish Village is available online at map. purpleair.com

Being Frank: Statue of Billy Frank Jr. Reminds Us To Tell Our Story

ED JOHNSTONE, NWIFC DIRECTOR

Family, friends, and tribal and state leaders recently witnessed the unveiling of a model of a Billy Frank Jr. statue in a ceremony at the Washington State Capitol.

The 4-foot-tall model – depicting Billy sitting on the banks of the Nisqually River beside salmon and a fishing net – is now on display outside Lt. Governor Denny Heck’s office.

It was an emotional moment for those of us who knew Billy, to see his likeness and spirit so beautifully captured in this sculpture of our longtime NWIFC chairman who always taught us, “Tell your story.”

Sculptor Haiying Wu – well known for the Fallen Firefighters Memorial in Seattle’s Pioneer Square neighborhood – has been working closely with the Nisqually Tribe and the Frank family. Once the model is approved by the Architect of the U.S. Capitol, Wu will complete the 9-foot-tall bronze statue destined for the National Statuary Hall in Washington, D.C., in 2025.

Our state Legislature passed a bill in 2021 selecting this statue as one of two representing our state in the nation’s capital, recognizing Billy’s lifelong dedication to fighting for the rights of Indigenous people.

Billy is on all of our minds as we approach the 50th anniversary, February 12, of Judge George Boldt’s  U.S. v. Washington decision, which reaffirmed tribal fishing rights and recognized the tribes as co-managers of the salmon resource. Billy was well-known as the “getting arrested guy” during the Fish Wars leading up to the case, so it is hard to think of one without the other.

The treaty tribes are marking this 50-year milestone by telling our stories during a two-day event hosted by the Muckleshoot Tribe. From treaty times through the Fish Wars and Boldt decision, to the past few decades of combating habitat loss and the effects of climate change, our goals have been the same – exercise our treaty rights while taking care of the fish, shellfish and wildlife that have sustained our people for generations.

The Boldt decision led to the framework for treaty tribes to build our natural resources departments and tribal governments to partner with the state as environmental stewards. The decision has been upheld in the U.S. Supreme Court and affirmed in sub proceedings and additional court cases. The Rafeedie decision solidified tribal shellfish rights. The culvert case confirmed that it is a violation of treaty rights for state roads and bridges to block fish passage. And  Hoh v. Baldrige determined that fisheries should be managed river by river to protect tribal fisheries in terminal areas.

Another of Billy’s lessons is that it’s going to take all of us to recover salmon. Every year fisheries co-management gets more difficult because salmon runs continue to decline and growing human populations continue to degrade habitat.

The tribes have been saying for decades that reducing harvest alone will not restore salmon productivity and abundance. We need to work together to stop the ongoing destruction of habitat, contamination of our water, predation by seals and sea lions, and impacts of climate change. Natural resources managers must continue to follow the latest science to address these environmental threats.

As we reflect on the past 50 years, we are worried about the next 50 years. We are stewards of natural resources for the next seven generations, but we’re on the trajectory to having a treaty right to harvest a fish that has gone extinct. As we move forward, we must follow Billy’s example to set aside our differences and work together.

In marking the anniversary of the Boldt decision, tribes carry on the work to inform everyone about the role treaty rights continue to play in fisheries management and protecting our environment.

The statue of my mentor Billy Frank Jr. represents this commitment. It is an opportunity to educate people about where we came from while inspiring future generations of tribal leaders and reminding the entire country that we’re still here.

A 4-foot model of a statue of Billy Frank Jr. after its Jan. 10 unveiling in the state Capitol building.

Photo by: Jack George–Nisqually Tribe Communications and Media Services

Boys & Girls Club Youth of the Month

Ava Day-Sams

The Boys & Girls Club would like to give a big congratulations to Ava Day-Sams our March Youth of the Month. Ava is nine years old and in the 4th grade. Ava loves playing with her stuffys and loves mermaids. Ava loves the colors purple and pink, but loves the Seahawks colors too. When we asked Ava what her favorite professional sports team is she said the La Conner Braves sports team, that’s it – you got to love her home town loyalty. Ava favorite’s food is mashed potato and gravy, and her favorite sport to play is soccer. Ava loves art in all forms and said after she graduates she would like to attend art school and have a career as an artist. Ava was chosen as the Youth of the Month because of her positive attitude and her helpfulness. Congratulations Ava!

Greyson Edwards

A big congratulations to Greyson Edwards our January 2024 Youth of the Month. Greyson is eight years old and in the 3rd grade. He loves the color green and eating spaghetti. Greyson loves playing basketball, playing with his friends, and rooting for the Seattle Seahawks his favorite sports team. Greyson’s favorite superhero is Ironman. Greyson would like to go to college after he graduates. He would like to become a Police Officer where he could protect and serve. We chose Greyson as the Youth of the Month for his kindness, his willingness to always help out, and the leadership he shows daily. Congratulations Greyson!

Kenny Kaubin

A big Boys & Girls Club congratulations to Kenny Kaubin our February Youth of the Month. Kenny is 10 years old and in the 4th grade. Kenny’s favorite colors are blue, black, and red. Kenny loves to play sports, his favorites are basketball, soccer, and football. He loves rooting for his favorite team the Lakers. When Kenny is hungry you can find him eating pizza or spaghetti which are his favorites and for his sweet tooth, he loves Skittles and M&M’s. After college Kenny would like to play basketball in the NBA, and be a rapper. Kenny was chosen as Youth of the Month because of his kindness, his positive attitude, and his willingness to always help. Congratulations Kenny!

Aiden Shafer

A big Boys & Girls Club congratulations to Aiden Shafer our December Youth of the Month. Aiden is in the second grade and is seven years old. His favorite color is blue, the same color as his favorite sports team the Seattle Seahawks. Aiden loves to play soccer, and his favorite food is olive and cheese pizza. Aiden’s favorite superhero is Batman, and his favorite animals are the penguin and cheetah. Aiden wants to go to college after high school, and become a Police Officer after he graduates. His plan is to work at the school or Boys & Girls Club protecting the youth. Aiden earned this honor for always helping out, his kindness to others and his positive thoughts. Congratulations Aiden!

Celebrating the 50th Anniversary of the Boldt Decision

The Northwest Indian Fish Commission hosted an event to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Boldt Decision. The two-day event, held at the Muckleshoot Casino, was at capacity with over 500 in attendance. Native and non-Native speakers shared their experiences and memories of the Fish Wars, the 50 years since the Boldt Decision, as well as what is still at stake (see “Swinomish Demands Action from the EPA,” Page 5). Discussions ranged from the Rafeedie Decision, to fish passage and the culvert case, and student experiences with the Since Time Immemorial and Billy Frank Jr. Day celebrations.

Judge Boldt’s daughter and granddaughter receive a paddle from the Nisqually Tribe

Top right: A small model of the Billy Frank Jr. statue that will be placed in the U.S. Capitol

Middle: The book Treaty Justice by Charles Wilkinson, legal scholar and close friend of Billy Frank Jr., was released by the UW Press in time for the anniversary celebration

Bottom: Witnesses Cecelia Gobin (Tulalip), Bob Whitener (MC), Ron Charles (Port Gamble S’Klallam), T.J. Greene (Makah), and Jamie Cruz (Squaxin Island)

Since time immemorial, Indigenous people have lived in the Pacific Northwest. For thousands of years, salmon was a staple of life and the foundation of tribes’ culture, economy and religion.

In the 1850s, Washington Territory Gov. Isaac Stevens negotiated treaties between the U.S. government and the tribes, who ceded most of their lands but reserved the right to fish at “all usual and accustomed fishing places.”

The legal history of the Stevens Treaties and U.S. v. Washington

TREATY SIGNINGS

December 26, 1854

Treaty of Medicine Creek

January 22, 1855

Treaty of Point Elliott

January 26, 1855

Treaty of Point No Point

January 31, 1855

Treaty of Neah Bay

June 9, 1855

Treaty with the Yakama

July 1, 1855 & January 25, 1856

Treaty of Olympia

STATE OVERSTEPS

1889

The first Washington State Legislature creates the office of Fish Commissioner to manage the fisheries of the state. For the next quarter of a century, state lawmakers and local authorities attempt to regulate tribal fisheries in violation of tribes’ treaty-reserved rights.

May 16, 1905

In the first major fishing rights case to reach the United States Supreme Court, U.S. v. Winans, the justices hold that treaty Indians had reserved the right to cross non-Indian lands to fish at “usual and accustomed” places and that treaties are to be interpreted the way Indians had understood them.

January 11, 1946

Milo Moore, Washington state director of fisheries, meets with representatives of the Northwest Federation of American Indians to discuss cooperation in fishing matters and to ask Indians to obey state fishing laws. He does not get the cooperation he hoped for, and instead, “Prominent Indians from many tribes spoke on fisheries matters, and it was the general opinion that pollution, dams and water diversion were mainly responsible for the decline in salmon population.”

November 4, 1963

Washington departments of Fisheries and Game file suit in state court to establish state authority to prohibit net fishing by Indians off-reservation. The state wins. However, by the 1960s, Northwest Indians are more militant and organized than in the past. With the support of the Bureau of Indian Affairs, the Department of Justice and tribal lawyers, tribes commence a series of legal actions to counter the state’s efforts to eradicate treaty fishing rights. The ensuing physical confrontations and legal battles lead to U.S. v. Washington.

GOING TO COURT

May 27, 1968

The Supreme Court, in Puyallup Tribe of Indians v. Department of Game (Puyallup I), holds that the state of Washington could restrict Indian net fishing when necessary for conservation of the resource, and returns the case to state court to determine if existing regulations are “necessary.”

July 8, 1969

In Sohappy v. Smith, 14 Yakama tribal members file suit against Oregon’s regulation of off-reservation fishing. The U.S. and the Yakama, Warm Springs, Umatilla and Nez Perce tribes also sue to enforce Indian off-reservation fishing rights in U.S. v. Oregon. The federal court combines the two cases.

Billy Frank Jr. harvests fish in 1973.

Photo: Tom Thompson

U.S. District Judge Robert Belloni decides in Sohappy v. Smith that treaties must be read to reflect the intent of the tribes, with strong protection of tribal off-reservation fishing rights. He rules that tribes must have a “fair share” of the salmon resource.

September 18, 1970

The federal government files U.S. v. Washington, challenging the state’s interference with tribal harvest through discriminatory regulation and enforcement, on behalf of seven federally recognized tribes: Hoh, Makah, Muckleshoot, Nisqually, Puyallup, Quileute and Skokomish.

October 19, 1970

Quinault files to intervene in the case.

January 14 & 18, 1971

Yakama and Lummi file motions to intervene.

February 17, 1971

No party opposes motions to intervene that also include the Squaxin and Sauk-Suiattle tribes.

April 1, 1971

Upper Skagit files its motion to intervene.

June 4, 1971

The Stillaguamish Tribe of Indians files to intervene.

August 13, 1971

The Muckleshoot, Squaxin Island, SaukSuiattle, Skokomish and Stillaguamish tribes amend the complaint: If the tribes have a right to fish in common with the citizens of the United States, then the tribes have the implied right to have habitat for the fish protected.

November 19, 1973

The U.S. Supreme Court decision in Washington Department of Game v. Puyallup Tribe (Puyallup II) upholds the Indian right to net fish commercially for steelhead and returns the case to state courts to determine allocations.

TURNING POINT: Boldt decision

February 12, 1974

Judge George Boldt’s ruling in U.S. v. Washington—in what is commonly referred to as the Boldt decision— reaffirms the tribes’ treaty-reserved rights to harvest salmon and steelhead. The decision also recognized the tribes as comanagers of salmon and other fish.

The tribes of Washington had ceded their land to the United States, but reserved the right to fish as they had always done, including fishing at traditional locations that were off their reservations.

May-September 1974

Seven more tribes intervene in U.S. v. Washington during the appellate process: the Swinomish Indian Tribal Community, Tulalip Tribes, Suquamish Tribe, Port Gamble Clallam Indians (now Port Gamble S’Klallam Tribe), Lower Elwha Band of Clallam Indians (now Lower Elwha Klallam Tribe), Nooksack Indian Tribe and Jamestown S’Klallam Tribe.

June 24, 1974

A charter committee meets in Seattle to develop a constitution and bylaws for the Northwest Indian Fisheries Commission (NWIFC).

The charter charges the commission with giving the treaty tribes “the capability of speaking with a single voice on fisheries management and conservation matters.”

January 14, 1975

Judge Boldt prohibits Washington from excluding hatchery-produced steelhead from the Indian treaty entitlement on rivers other than the Puyallup, pending final determination of that question by a federal court.

April 8, 1975

Judge Boldt expands the U.S. v. Washington decision to herring and approves a sac-roe herring fishery management plan for 1975 that allocates equal shares of the off-reservation commercial catch to Indians and non-Indians.

Article in Northwest Indian News following Judge George Boldt’s decision in February 1974.

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June 4, 1975

The 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals upholds Judge Boldt’s ruling in U.S. v. Washington.

July 19, 1975

Judge Boldt orders the state to permit Indians to fish with any type of gear during the entire period open to U.S. fishermen under International Pacific Salmon Fisheries Commission regulations.

August 20, 1975

U.S. District Judge Belloni issues a supplemental order in U.S. v. Oregon, declaring that treaty tribes must have an opportunity to harvest up to 50% of Columbia River fall chinook that the states allow to be taken by all user groups and which are destined to return to the tribes’ usual and accustomed fishing places.

October 20, 1975

The state files a petition for the U.S. Supreme Court to review decisions made by lower courts in U.S. v. Washington.

October 21, 1975

In subsequent rulings, Judge Boldt prohibits or limits Indian on-reservation fishing in several instances where he found such restriction necessary to ensure adequate spawning.

October 22, 1975

Judge Boldt rules that he has jurisdiction to restrict Indian on-reservation fishing on runs affected by his decree when necessary or to preserve the runs. The Puyallup and Nisqually tribes appeal this ruling to the 9th Circuit.

October 27, 1975

Judge Boldt names a Fisheries Advisory Board consisting of one state representative and one Indian representative to attempt to reach agreement on fisheries regulatory matters prior to submission to the court for judicial determination.

Judge Boldt also orders the state to allow Indians to take a greater share of the 1975 harvestable chum salmon

Steelhead are released from a Puyallup hatchery into Clarks Creek in April 1981.

as an “equitable adjustment” for the “substantial and significant” denial of their opportunity to take an equal share of coho salmon after state courts hampered enforcement against unauthorized nontreaty fishing in direct violation of the federal court’s order.

January 26, 1976

The Supreme Court declines to review U.S. v. Washington, thereby reaffirming Judge Boldt’s decision and the ruling of the 9th Circuit.

January 28, 1976

The 9th Circuit affirms Judge Belloni’s May 8, 1974, order that Columbia River treaty tribes are entitled to 50% of the harvestable runs destined to reach the tribes’ usual and accustomed fishing grounds and stations.

February 1977

In U.S. v. Oregon, the federal court approves a five-year plan for an inriver harvest-sharing formula between non-Indian and Indian fisheries. The plan fails because it does not include controls on ocean harvests or specific measures to replace fish runs destroyed by development.

March 1977

The Yakama, Warm Springs, Umatilla and Nez Perce tribes create the Columbia River Inter-Tribal Fish Commission.

March 22, 1979

Judge Boldt approves an interim plan for implementation of his decision in U.S. v. Washington and appoints a fisheries technical advisor and a designated master, who is assigned to hear subsequent matters in specialized cases.

July 2, 1979

In Washington v. Washington State Commercial Passenger Fishing Vessel, the Supreme Court upholds U.S. v. Washington, ruling that the treaties secured the tribes a right to harvest a share of each run of anadromous fish that passes through tribal fishing areas.

AN EVOLVING BATTLE

1980-82

Columbia River, Puget Sound and Washington Coast tribes sue the U.S. Secretary of Commerce over ocean fishing regulations because a large percentage of treaty fish were being caught in waters managed by the Department of Commerce. The federal government is ordered to regulate ocean fisheries to ensure that a reasonable number of salmon reach tribal fishing places.

September 26, 1980

In the first ruling of U.S. v. Washington, Phase II, Judge William Orrick holds there is a duty imposed upon the state, as well as the U.S. and third parties, to refrain from degrading fish habitat to an extent that would deprive the tribes of their moderate living needs. Orrick also prohibits the state from damaging fish habitat and includes hatchery-raised fish in the allocation to Indians.

October 12, 1984

The tribes and state receive an 18-month stay of proceeding in U.S. v.  Washington, Phase II, to negotiate the Timber/Fish/ Wildlife (TFW) Agreement.

March 1985

President Ronald Reagan and Canadian Prime Minister Brian Mulroney sign the U.S./Canada Pacific Salmon Treaty, which reduces Canadian and Alaskan harvest of Columbia River salmon and adds tribal representation to the international decision-making body.

April 29, 1985

In the state’s appeal of the Phase II decision, the 9th Circuit agrees that the state has treaty duties to protect habitat and affirms that hatchery fish are part of Indian/non-Indian fishing allocations but reverses a previous declaration on habitat, saying that the state’s duties depend on the facts of particular habitataltering activities.

David Mills, a Suquamish Tribe fisheries technician, gives a tour of the Cowling Creek Hatchery to sport fishermen from the Kitsap Poggie Club in the 1980s.

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May 8, 1986

The U.S., state and tribes meet to discuss a tentative settlement for Phase II. There is no settlement, but the tribes and state secure a stay of the proceedings for 1218 months.

1989

The tribes are willing to dismiss without prejudice U.S. v. Washington, Phase II, and seek cooperative resolution of environmental impacts to salmon habitat. After being denied protection of resources and fish habitat, the tribes are forced back into court to defend treaty-protected rights on a case-by-case basis.

June 23, 1993

Judge Barbara Rothstein dismisses without prejudice U.S. v. Washington, Phase II. All parties support this motion.  Though Phase II was dismissed, the U.S. or tribes could reinitiate habitat-related litigation in the future.

December 20, 1994

In a subproceeding of U.S. v. Washington, Judge Edward Rafeedie declares tribal off-reservation shellfishing rights.

“The fact that some species were not taken before treaty time—either because they were inaccessible or the Indians chose not to take them—does not mean that their right to take such fish was limited. Because the ‘right of taking fish’ must be read as a reservation of the Indians’ pre-existing rights, and because the right to take any species, without limit, pre-existed the Stevens Treaties, the court must read the ‘right of taking fish’ without any species limitation.”

November 4, 1996

The Makah Tribe secures a win in a subproceeding regarding Pacific whiting and rockfish. The ruling reaffirms that the ‘‘right of taking fish’’ applies to all species found in “usual and accustomed fishing grounds and stations,” whether or not those species were taken at treaty time.

March 16, 1999

The U.S. Department of the Interior adds nine salmon runs in the Pacific Northwest to the endangered species list. They join 15 others that are already listed.

Listed as endangered:

Upper Columbia River spring chinook

Listed as threatened:

Puget Sound chinook

Lower Columbia River chinook

Lake Ozette sockeye

Hood Canal summer chum

Lower Columbia River chum

Mid-Columbia River steelhead

Upper Willamette River chinook

Upper Willamette River steelhead

Between 1985 and 2000, the tribes support the development of cooperative management approaches including TFW, Sustainable Forestry Roundtable, Forests and Fish Law, Chelan Agreement and State-Tribal Environmental Memorandum of Understanding.

A chum salmon swims back to the Skokomish Tribe’s Enetai Hatchery in November 2021.

FOCUS ON FISH PASSAGE

June 16, 2000

After several situations where the state refuses to work cooperatively, plaintiff tribes raise concerns about fish-blocking culverts and the failure of the state to protect the treaty-reserved rights of the tribes.

October 26, 2000

A formal mediation process is initiated for culvert concerns.

January 12, 2001

Twenty-one northwest Washington tribes, joined by the United States, ask the U.S. District Court to find that the state has a treaty-based duty to preserve fish runs and habitat, and to compel the state to repair or replace culverts that impede salmon migration.

March 5, 2002

Fishing groups challenge National Marine Fisheries Service regulations and annual allocations of Pacific whiting to the Makah Tribe. The court interprets treaty language as entitling the tribes “to take fifty percent of the salmon and other free-swimming fish in the water controlled by Washington.”

August 22, 2007

Federal District Court Judge Ricardo Martinez issues a summary judgment holding that while culverts impeding fish migration are not the only factor impacting habitat, building and maintaining culverts that impede salmon migration diminished the size of the runs and thereby violated Washington state’s obligations under the Stevens Treaties.

August 23, 2007

The court rules that state culverts that block fish and diminish salmon runs violate Indian treaty fishing rights. The ruling rests on historical facts that the state never disputed: Washington tribes refused to sell their land until they were assured a continued supply of fish in the treaties. “This paper secures your fish,” Gov. Isaac Stevens had told the tribes.

In essence, non-Indians paid for 5 million acres of Indian land by promising to protect Indian fisheries.

March 29, 2013

The court orders the state to significantly increase efforts to remove and replace state-owned culverts that block salmon and steelhead by 2030.

September 2013

In consultation with the tribes, the state files lists of fish barriers to be corrected by the departments of Transportation, Natural Resources, Parks, and Fish and Wildlife.

June 27, 2016

The 9th Circuit affirms the decision requiring the state to correct its barrier culverts. This reaffirms the fundamental principle that treaty rights to take fish include protecting and restoring fish habitat, and that the state’s barrier culverts violate those rights.

October 2016

The departments of Natural Resources, Parks, and Fish and Wildlife meet the deadline to fix barrier culverts.

May 19, 2017

The 9th Circuit rejects the state’s petition to rehear its decision.

January 12, 2018

The U.S. Supreme Court accepts a petition to review the case on the state’s appeal.

April 18, 2018

Arguments are heard in Supreme Court.

June 11, 2018

The Supreme Court affirms the 9th Circuit decision, upholding the injunction ordering the state to repair its fish-blocking culverts.

February 2024

Treaty fishing rights, fisheries regulations, access to fishing places, and habitat protection—as affirmed in U.S. v. Washington—routinely shape legislative and regulatory decisions.

The tribes party to U.S. v. Washington commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Boldt decision as they continue to exercise their treaty-protected rights and steward the environment for the benefit of everyone in the Pacific Northwest. Content

A box culvert is removed in August 2014 to improve fish passage at the mouth of Chico Creek.

JUDGE BOLDT'S JUDICIAL ROBES

FROM THE SWINOMISH TRIBAL ARCHIVE

Virginia Riedinger, the daughter of Judge George Boldt, generously donated her father’s judicial robes to the Swinomish Tribal Archive in 2020. Along with the robes, she donated newspaper articles and photographs to digitize as well as a few other items.

The Swinomish Tribe will forever cherish this donation as it symbolizes the courage behind Judge Boldt's decision 50 years ago. These robes serve not only as a reminder of past struggles and triumphs, but also as a glimpse of hope for the future.

For inquiries about visiting the archive, please call Archive & Records Manager Krista Hamburg at (360) 466.7382 or email khamburg@swinomish.nsn.us

Riedinger-Boldt Collection | Swinomish Tribal Archive

Right: Virginia Boldt-Riedinger, the daughter of Judge George Boldt, holding her father’s judicial robes.

Below: The inside of Judge Boldt's judicial robe with his initials, "GHB”, (George Hugo Boldt) sewn in.

Dental Clinic

March is National Nutrition Month

Good nutrition is important for maintaining good oral health, and this month is an excellent time to promote eating habits for healthy teeth and gums.

Apples and carrots are good examples of crunchy fruits and vegetables that can help keep your teeth clean and remove plaque buildup. Chewing on these foods stimulates saliva production, which helps to neutralize acids in the mouth and prevent tooth decay.

Catechins, which are found in green tea, have been shown to stop the growth of bacteria that cause tooth decay and gum disease. Green tea consumption on a regular basis may help to improve oral health.

Vitamin C rich foods, such as oranges, strawberries, and kiwi, can help improve gum health by increasing collagen production and decreasing inflammation. Vitamin C deficiency can cause bleeding gums and other oral health problems.

Education Dinner

Students from grades 6-12 and college were honored at the February 15 Education Dinner.

Nakesha Edwards with a plaque recognizing the completion of her master’s from the University of Oklahoma

Workforce Development Manager Christina Adams, Swinomish Scholarship Manager Lisa James, and La Conner Swinomish Library Director Jean Markert

Xavier Keo receives his award and handshakes from Michael Vendiola and Superintendent Wil Nelson

Spe’cum Charles, Sasalia McCraigie Jack, and Sum’suma’yu McCraigie Jack are excited for their spaghetti dinner

Anthony Cladoosby wins the grand prize!

La Conner School District

Regular and Substitute Bus Drivers needed!

Here’s the information about bus driver openings:

Regular and Substitute Bus Drivers needed - consider joining the La Conner Braves family and receive significant benefits. Do you have what it takes to get our students moving? Flexible hours, morning, and afternoon.

‣ Paid training with engaging instructors to help you obtain your CDL.

‣ State-of-the-art vehicles are maintained to the best standards.

‣ Smiling faces and the opportunity to be the first person to greet our students each day.

Applicants must have five years of (personal/regular) licensed driving experience and have a clean driving record.

Apply for a bus driver position by visiting the district website: lcsd.wednet.edu/Page/10

NEW AT SWINOMISH

The Pollution Identification and Correction Program Department of Environmental Protection The Department of Environmental Protection Department’s new Pollution Identification and Correction (PIC) Program run by Swinomish new hire Brooke Zibell will focus on identifying sources of water pollution and corrective actions, particularly on the west shore where polluted runoff can affect shellfish beds. Examples of potential sources of water pollution include failing septic systems, stormwater runoff, and pet/animal wastes. This program will be working with you, the community, to address your concerns about water pollution as well as provide education and resources to homeowners about best practices for septic systems and animal waste.

If you have water pollution concerns related to septic systems and/or animal waste in the waterways, ditches, or outfalls on the Swinomish Reservation – or are looking for information on technical assistance for septic systems or septic safe practices – contact Brooke at bzibell@ swinomish.nsn.us or (360) 708-9279.

NWIC

Rudy Vendiola Named NWIC Dean of Academics

Join us in congratulating Rudy Vendiola (yǝˀqʷin), who has been serving as the interim dean of academics since January 2023, as the permanent dean of academics. Rudy is an enrolled member of the Swinomish Tribe and of Lhaq’temish and Visayan descent.

Rudy has a Master’s degree in adult education and Bachelor’s degree in communications, both from Western Washington University, and an AAS in business from Skagit Valley College. Rudy has worked in Indian education for over 35 years, including serving as the Indian education coordinator in the Ferndale School District for 17 years. Other employment experience includes but is not limited to serving as a trainer/grant writer for the Lummi Cedar Project; Churchill Council on Drugs & Alcohol; recreation director, Fallon Paiute Shoshone Tribes; student affairs officer, UC Berkeley; and employment representative, United Indian Nations. Rudy is also a certified mediator through Indian Dispute Resolution Services and has served as the varsity boy’s tennis coach at Ferndale high school for the past 25 years.

“Congratulations to Rudy on this permanent appointment. It is well deserved. We look forward to Rudy’s continued leadership and positive contributions to the College moving forward,” President Guillory said.

Census Director Visits Swinomish

JANUARY 22, 2024 – U.S. Census Bureau Director Roberto Santos stands with staff from the Swinomish Grants Department and former Senator Brian Wilbur at Snee-oosh Beach.

Fisheries Building Reopening and Blessing

February 16, 2024 – Swinomish Senators: Steve Edwards, Tandy Wilbur, JJ Wilbur, Sophie Bailey, Brian Porter, Aurelia Bailey; Fish Commission Chair, Fred Cayou, tribal staff and community members were present for the reopening and blessing of the Fisheries Building.

OLYMPIC PIPELINE SPILL UPDATE

On December 10, 2023 a large concrete vault associated with the Olympic Pipe Line overfilled, causing around 21,000 gallons of gasoline to flow overland and into a nearby irrigation canal named Hill Ditch, which discharges into Bulson Creek.

Current response operations involve removing the contaminated soil at the spill site. To accommodate this work, a sheet pile cofferdam was installed along the shoreline of Hill Ditch and a dewatering system was installed to remove water from the soil inside the cofferdam. Water removed from the soil is cleaned and returned to the environment. Excavation of contaminated soil along the streambank started this week. Surface water sampling will continue throughout the excavation.

The emergency response phase of this response be completed around the week of March 17, 2024 (weather pending). The project will then shift focus to restoration and mitigation work.

Status updates are posted on Ecology’s website at ecology.wa.gov/OlympicPipelineSpill. Photos and videos are available on Ecology’s Flickr and YouTube sites.

Air monitoring and potential gas odor

During excavation, mild gasoline odor may be noticeable near the site. As excavation proceeds, enhanced air monitoring on the site will ensure the safety of response workers. Community air monitoring will continue to ensure protection of the public. Based on sampling data, we do not expect air sampling levels to exceed safety thresholds.

General information

The Unified Command asks members of the community and public to continue reporting sheens in Hill Ditch by emailing Liaison@ecy.wa.gov. To report sheens outside Hill Ditch, call 1-800-OILS-911.

Air monitoring conducted at the direction of the Unified Command continues to indicate no public health risk from gasoline fumes. Community air monitoring will continue during work hours when impacted soil is being removed.

Sampling downstream of the spill site continues and no exceedances of environmental or health-based screening values for hydrocarbons have been reported at any location since December 22, 2023.

Members of the public who come upon injured or deceased wildlife are asked not to touch or relocate affected wildlife and to call 1-800-22BIRDS.

A claims center has been established by the Olympic Pipeline. Please call 1-866-616-1558 to report any personal or property damages resulting from the spill.

The Unified Command consists of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the Washington Department of Ecology, the Skagit County Department of Emergency Management, bp, and the Swinomish Indian Tribal Community.

Photo: Washington State Department of Ecology

I Am a Victim of Identity Theft

CAROLINE AMMONS, QYUUQS EDITOR

It started in 2017, with a letter from Equifax informing me that cybercriminals had breached their network. The breach exposed the data of 143 million Americans. The exposed information included names, social security numbers, birthdates, addresses, and driver’s license numbers.

I did what any American would do, I looked at my credit report and thankfully nothing looked out of the ordinary. My debt was still mine. Worrying was just the beginning, little did I know how far this could actually go.

Since then, I have been part of two other data breaches with the most recent exposure from my cable company, Comcast Xfinity, in August 2023.

I have had scammers calling my cell number impersonating as another company trying to scam me to send them money. The calls got so bad; I currently pay for the app RoboKiller to help me scan my calls. It doesn’t end there! More fraudulent charges started showing up on my debit account. Hackers got into my online banking and tried opening a foreign account, so I had to get a completely new account number and seek higher security from my bank.

The latest issue involves three utility bills using my maiden name that ended up in collections in Houston, Texas. I’ve never even been to Texas!

In all reality, the trauma of my identity being taken from me resonates deeply. As a Native American of this country, if my English name can be stripped from me, what identity do I have left? Although I have felt powerless more than I’d like these past few years, I am gaining my power back!

I have removed my personal information from 50+ people search websites that were exposing my and my family’s privacy. I am currently disputing identity theft errors on my credit report and plan to report identity theft to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), and then file a police report with the Houston Police Department.

Identity theft is a worldwide issue. As society becomes more digitally dependent, our identities are more at risk of being exposed.

Citizens must safeguard their personal information by utilizing technology such as antivirus protection software, password managers, identity theft protection, and VPNs if they want to avoid identity theft scenarios in 2024. ( IdentityTheft.org/statistics/)

Did you know?

‣ Of the 5.7 million cases reported to the FTC in 2021, 1.4 million (25%) were specific to identity theft.

‣ Identity theft and fraud cases have been steadily increasing over the past decade.

‣ According to the FBI, total cybercrime losses are estimated to be $10.2 billion for 2022. This is nearly double the amount of the previous year, at $6.9 billion.

‣ With a $500 median loss, the cost to victims is growing as we become more digitally dependent.

‣ The FTC received 5.7 million reports of identity theft and fraud in 2021, up from 4.7 million the previous year.

‣ Identity theft cases are at an all-time high, because of the wider range of identity theft methods.

‣ Total credit card fraud cases decreased to 389,737 in 2021, from 393,737 from the previous year.

‣ Around 33% of Americans have faced some form of identity theft at some point in their lives.

‣ Consumers aged 30-39 were the most likely to be victimized by identity theft.

‣ Georgia ranked #1 with 150,898 reports for identity theft and fraud cases in 2022. Washington ranked #21 with 77,128 reports.

What are the Different Types of Identity Theft?

Financial Identity Theft: This occurs when someone steals your personal information, such as your Social Security number or credit card details, in order to obtain credit, loans, or other financial benefits in your name.

Medical Identity Theft: This involves the theft of personal information, such as your health insurance or medical records, in order to obtain medical care or prescription drugs in your name.

Criminal Identity Theft: In this type of identity theft, someone uses your name and personal information when they are arrested or convicted of a crime.

Social Security Identity Theft: This occurs when someone steals your Social Security in order to obtain employment, government benefits, or tax refunds in your name.

Child Identity Theft: This type of identity theft involves the theft of a child’s personal information, such as their Social Security number, to fraudulently obtain credit or other benefits.

Synthetic Identity Theft: In this type of identity theft, a criminal combines real or face information to create a new identity.

Tax Identity Theft: This involves the theft of personal information, such as your Social Security number, in order to file a fraudulent tax return and obtain a refund in your name.

Source: IdentityTheft.org

FD13 CARES!

In partnership with Swinomish, the Skagit County Fire District 13 CARES team is here for you. CARES stands for Community Assistance Referral and Education Services.

Fire District 13 is the only non-municipal fire department in Skagit County to implement a CARES program at this time. The aim of this program is to provide non-emergent medical care and assistance to those at-risk in the community, to establish the needs of patients so they may remain safe and healthy, and to reduce overuse of the 911 system. CARES can also assist patients with referrals to mental health and substance use professionals.

FD13 CARES can assist you with:

‣ Pre-hospital assessments

‣ Post-hospital care

‣ Vital signs assessments

‣ First aid and CPR education

‣ Mental health and substance use

‣ Naloxone kits and education

‣ And don’t forget to ask about our “Good Morning Fire District 13” program

For assistance or questions call FD13 CARES at (360) 391-4554 or email 13CP1@skagitfire13.net

As a full-time employee, you will be eligible for a comprehensive benefit package including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, retirement planning, and more. Other perks include generous paid time off and discounted meals.

To view details about open positions and download our General Employment Application, visit swinomishcasinoandlodge.com/ careers. All positions are “Open until filled” unless specified.

Email applications to: jobs@swinomishcasino.com

Fax applications to: (360) 299.1677

Mail or hand deliver to: Swinomish Casino & Lodge 12885 Casino Drive, Anacortes, WA 98221

Questions? Call Human Resources at (360) 299.1642

For the latest open positions, please visit: swinomishcasinoandlodge.com/careers/

DIDGWALIC WELLNESS CENTER

The didgwalic Wellness Center is an integrated clinic serving clients with substance use disorder and related conditions.

Employment is managed by the didgwalic Human Resources Department. Please contact HR at (360) 288.5800 or email hr@didgwalic.com with your inquiries.

didgwalic Wellness Center website: didgwalic.com

HUMAN RESOURCES

JOB OPENINGS

• Tribal Gaming Agency: Information Systems Agent

• Finance: Accountant II – Payroll Accountant

• Fisheries: Shellfish Harvest Management Biologist

• Social Services: Children’s Victim/Witness Advocate

• Community Environmental Health: Garden Manager and Office Coordinator

• Education: Susan Wilbur Early Education (SWEEC) Coach Van Driver/Center Aide

• Medical: Primary Care Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner

• Environmental Policy: Environmental Policy Analyst

• Environmental Policy: Climate Policy Analyst

• Behavioral Health: Mental Health Counselor

• Behavioral Health: Grants Manager

• Planning and Community Development: Planning and Community Development Director

• Port Authority: Harbormaster

• Swinomish Dental: Dental Assistant

• IT: Security & Low Voltage Technician

• Housing Authority: Seasonal Maintenance Laborer

• Tribal Court: Bailiff

• Land Management: Land Manager

• Education: Susan Wilbur Early Education Center (SWEEC) Teacher Assistant

• Planning: Senior Planner – Team Supervisor

• Health Programs: Medical Operations Director

• Planning: Permit Tech (Part Time)

• Police Officer

• Certified Medical Assistant

Full descriptions of the job announcements listed above are available on the Swinomish website: swinomish-nsn.gov/resources/human-resources

HOW TO APPLY TO THE SWINOMISH TRIBE:

Return completed application, cover letter, and resume to: Swinomish Indian Tribal Community

ATTN: Human Resources 11404 Moorage Way, La Conner, WA 98257

Fax applications to: (360) 466.1348 Or email to: hr@swinomish.nsn.us

Applications must be received in the Personnel Office by 5PM on or before the job closing date.

Questions?

Call the Personnel Office at (360) 466.1216 or (360) 466.7353