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Squaxin Island Tribe Natural Resources Surplus Auction
We would like to offer this boat to the tribal community in a sealed bid auction. We will accept sealed bids until 4:00 PM on April 12th, 2024. Bids will be reviewed, and the winner will be notified the following week. The winner will have two weeks to pay. In the event of a tie bid, NR staff will determine the winner by lottery. If the winning bidder fails to pay, then the next highest bid will be accepted. All items are sold “as-is”.

 

2003 26’ Munson Pack-Cat
This solid welded aluminum boat comes with twin 2014 Evinrude 200 HP outboards and a 2012 EZ Loader tandem axle. The engines have 1,783 hours on them. A complete vessel survey was just completed, and a copy can be obtained by emailing Daniel Kuntz .

A reserve amount has been set at $20,000.00.





INTERESTED IN A POTENTIAL TRIP TO Victoria B.C./CABO?

  • We are ONLY looking for Elder interest for a POSSIBLE trip there.
  • If interested, please sign up with your interest only.
  • This is NOT a guarantee to go anywhere.
  • This list has NOTHING to do with your place on the list (NOT A 1st COME 1st SERVE LIST)
  • List is ONLY  to get information on participation
  • NO dates/or details are available. This is just to see about participation.

Sign up in the Elders dining room or call Traci at (360) 432-3868 or email

The last day to sign up for interest in either trip will be Monday, March 11 @ noon.



The Procession of the Species Art Studio is now open to create your part in this fun event April 26 & 27

Family friendly celebration of the natural world: Fire, Air, Water, and Earth

You and your family are invited to get involved. Feel free to plan your tribute and then just show up.  See the link below for details.

https://oly-wa.us/procession

You tube explaining the Procession:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=adOKAgENZvI


Congratulations Squaxins!

Groundbreaking and Blessing
New Tumwater Trading Post Site

February 26th

Thank you for the blessing, Rose and Francis!

* The building in the background will be removed.

Island Enterprises staff and board members

L-R: IEI staff:
Savannah Fenton, Audelia Araiza, Kristen Davis, David Burnett (CEO)

Yellow jacket 3rd from left:
Contractor Don Olin
Pacific Environmental Services Company (PESCO)

L-R: IEI Board Members:
Daniel Kuntz (3rd from right), Tim Sheldon (second from right)

R:  Jeremiah George, drummer/singer

Thank you for the blessing song, Jeremiah George!

Island Enterprises CEO David Burnett breaks ground


American Indian and Alaska Native Veterans save $2.5 million in VA co-payments


TAF is an independent charitable patient assistance organization that helps patients and families facing high medical out-of-pocket costs.

Learn more >

– shared by Misti McFarlane


Interconnect provides personalized treatment support by work with people who have been prescribed an Intercept treatment.

Learn more >

– shared by Misti McFarlane


Congratulations Squaxin Island Tribal Chairman Kris Peters!!!

Elected as Assistant Secretary to
Affiliated Tribes of Northwest Indians (ATNI)
Board of Directors
Photo by Vince Henry


Check out these awesome drone shots by Candace Penn

Natural and Cultural Resources Building

Skookum Inlet


Elections
Elections Were Held On Wednesday, February 7. Terms were up on Vice-Chair (held by Debra Mattson) and Member at Large (held by Nancy Moore).

Elizabeth (Heredia) Krise was elected as Vice-Chair and and Nancy Moore maintained her Member at Large position. They will serve two year terms (not three).

Thank you to all who voted and participated in our elections.

Contact information for both of these members are as follows:

Elizabeth (Heredia) Krise, Vice-Chair
(360) 349-9368

Nancy Moore, Member at Large
(360) 490-0451
or

This takes effect immediately


Boldt 50

Vice Chairman Jaimie Cruz
was one of the witnesses to end the celebration. 

Bobby Whitener MC’ed the whole event. 
We held Bold40 at Squaxin.
Great event!

Best to all,
– Dale Croes


The dental clinic now has emergency walk-in time available from 8:00 a.m. – 9:00 a.m. on Mondays and Tuesdays. Patients will be seen on a first come, first served basis.  These openings are available for anyone who has already registered with the clinic.

If you would like to schedule an appointment for any other days or times, please contact us at (360) 432-3881.

We look forward to seeing you!




New Enrollment Needs Request Form
https://squaxin.formstack.com/forms/enrollment_appointment_needs_request


Tribal Members

If you are having any difficulty logging in to the tribal members only page on the website, please contact Theresa Henderson at or (360) 280-2798.


Public Notice ICDBG’s


UIHI Summer Public Health Internship applications are now open
Whether you’ve chosen public health as your career path or you’re exploring the field for the first time, UIHI welcomes applicants who want to positively impact the health of Native communities.

Our internships are full-time, paid, and in-person. While here, individuals explore public health careers by participating in projects related to Indigenous evaluation, research and surveillance, and direct public health service.

Applicants must be 18 years of age or older and self-identify as American Indian, Alaska Native, and/or Indigenous to be eligible.

Learn and apply HERE



2024 Committee Vacancies


Hello everyone 😊. I want to introduce myself and my lovely wife. My name is David Whitener and this is Sotheary.

We moved to our new home off Steamboat Island Road last May, and have been working to do all those things home owners do and settle in here. While I couldn’t wait to get out of the city, it took some convincing to get Sotheary to agree. Her concerns quickly faded and now she loves it. Of course, it’s a bit of a two edged sword, because now she wants a garden and chickens, and guess who’s getting to set all that up? Yep…me 😊

So this is the Segway into the next thing she wants me to set up – an in home hair salon. Sotheary has been a hair stylist for 20 years and moving here to Steamboat has sparked a real desire to work for herself. So I have pretty much got her set up to start taking customers.

Her plan, at this point, is to take appointments on Thursday, Friday and Saturday until she feels comfortable leaving her current work.

You can call us at (360) 836-4836 to schedule an appointment.
The name of our new business is Fantastic Cuts.
Haircuts are $25.00.

We have had a few customers already, and it is an unexpected treat to get to meet new people. Some have known Sotheary for years, but are new to me. Having the business in our home has provided this unexpected and fun aspect to this venture. Sotheary can bust out a great haircut in short order, but what we are finding is there is time to slow down and connect a bit and we are both enjoying that.

So consider this an invitation to stop by, even if you don’t need a haircut. Give us a call and check us out and just come and visit. See you soon :).

Oh by the way, the address is 6236 Steamboat Island Road, Olympia 98502.


Amazing Mount Rainier sunrise by Tracy West

Squaxin Island Tribe patrol boat on duty
January 29




Public Art Artist Roster Accepting Applicants Through March 6

Seattle, WA -The Seattle Office of Arts & Culture (ARTS) is now accepting applications from artists for upcoming public art projects. Artists of all experience levels and backgrounds are encouraged and welcome to apply.

The City of Seattle Office of Arts & Culture’s Public Art Artist Roster is a pre-qualified list of visual and public artists. This roster is the application pool for public art projects throughout the City of Seattle with budgets up to $500,000. Artists are invited to apply once for a three-year roster, versus applying for each new opportunity (ARTS averages 20-30 projects annually).

Different than a grant, this Public Art Artist Roster is not asking artists to apply with a specific project in mind, but rather provide examples of past work, a biographical statement, and artist statement as part of the application. The applications within the roster will be considered for each new project.

The Public Art Artist Roster primarily focuses on visual and public artists that can work with the City to collaboratively develop new public art projects in tandem with capital projects throughout Seattle. Working closely with other City agencies (Seattle City Light, Seattle Public Utilities, Seattle Department of Transportation, Seattle Parks and Recreation and others), artists are commissioned to create new work that is often site, project and community specific. Additionally, there are several new projects in this next year that will be commissioning artists for the creation of digital artwork (VR data mapping/storytelling) as well as several community engagement art efforts.

ARTS offers a wide variety of public art projects – variety in scale, budget, neighborhood, and approach. Artists have the opportunity to shape the narrative of the City through creative interventions that bring their unique voices into the City’s infrastructure.– Gülgün Kayim, Director, Seattle Office of Arts & Culture

Having the opportunity to infuse my heritage into public spaces and to be involved in some transformative projects has helped my practice grow in ways that I can’t begin to describe.– Toka Valu, an artist currently on the existing Public Art Artist Roster

Applications for the Public Art Artist Roster are due on Friday, March 6, 2024 and will be reviewed by a panel for selection. Notification will be sent in June 2024.

Visit the ARTS website at seattle.gov/arts to find the application plus available drop-in workshops and informational video.

For questions about the program or for help with the online application, please contact Project Manager, Maija McKnight at (206) 684-7311 or .




Great Student Opportunities

Future Pathways


Unveiling Statue Honoring Billy Frank, Jr.
WA State lawmakers passed legislation in 2021 to send a statue of Billy Frank, Jr. to National Statuary Hall in Washington, D.C. The statue is currently slated for installation in 2025.

Billy Frank Jr. was a Nisqually tribal member (with family ties to Squaxin Island Tribe) who fought tirelessly to ensure that the United States government would honor the promises made in the treaties with Washington tribes. His activism and perseverance paved the way for the “Boldt decision” in United States v. Washington, which affirmed the right of Washington treaty tribes to take up to half of the harvestable salmon in western Washington, reaffirmed tribal treaty reserved rights, and established the tribes as co-managers of the salmon resource.

A model of Washington’s forthcoming addition to the National Statuary Hall in Washington, D.C. was unveiled Wednesday, January 3rd, to a packed, teary-eyed room of state lawmakers, tribal leaders, and activists.

The final statue in D.C. will be twice as large as the one unveiled at the WA State Capitol and pictured below.

The model  will be on display in the Lt. Governor’s office.

Photos by our friend, Dale Croes

Full story in the Washington State Standard

Video Recording of the event TVW


Positive Indian Parenting


Housing Waiting List Applicants Reminder:
If you are on the Squaxin Island tribal housing waiting list, it is time to update your housing application.

The updated application will be mailed to the last known address that the Office of Housing has for you. If you have recently moved or have a change of mailing address, please call Traci Lopeman, Occupancy Specialist, at (360) 432-3863.

If you do not update your application by March 31, 2024, your name will be removed from the housing waiting list.


New Date


Salish Roots
Welcome to 2024! We hope you were all able to enjoy a restful and rejuvenating holiday.

The Salish Roots crew is back from break and looking forward to a great 2024 season.

Check out the program’s 2023 recap.

What are you hoping to see from Salish Roots in 2024?

Comment below 👇

Attention Squaxin Community!
Salish Roots Farm is conducting a community survey to collect your valued feedback. Please take a few minutes to share your input and experience with our food sovereignty program. Your voice is critical in shaping the future of this program and we want to hear from you.

Scan the QR code or follow the link to take the survey. Stop by the farm for a special gift once completed.

Here’s the link: https://forms.gle/yA3j9aHfT8fBBRSy6


Please take a few minutes to fill out this very important form
Squaxin Island Housing Data Collection 2024



Help us plan better NOW to help YOU in the future.

We would like your input to help us reduce the impacts from natural disasters on the Squaxin Island Tribe community.

We are updating an important plan called the Hazard Mitigation Plan and your perspective is key!

Please take the short survey below to contribute. All surveys can be anonymous if you choose.

https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/Squaxin_Island_Tribe_Mitigation_Survey

Contact Kelly Guy with any questions at 



The Office of Housing is not currently accepting any new
Homeownership Assistance Fund (HAF) applications.
Feel free to contact Lisa Peters with questions (360) 432-3871.


If you were referred to an outside medical provider by the clinic, and have any outstanding medical bills or in collections, please contact Eric Ellerbe or Jaclyn Meyer at the clinic.


New hours for Island Grille restaurant
There are new hours for Island Grille restaurant.

It will now be closed for breakfast on Mondays and Tuesdays, with the exception of holidays.

It will be open regular hours for dinner.


Bus Barn Community Development Statement


Verizon Affordable Connectivity Program


Tumwater Falls Drone Footage



The Tribe will be doing some PLANNED Slash Burning
Don’t worry if you see smoke.



Narcan Video


King 5 article





Trunk-or-Treat 2023


Flu vaccines are here and patients can schedule appointments now.
Call (360) 427-9006


TRANSIT

Need to go grocery shopping? Let SIT get you there.

Our new grocery store routes will start on Thursday the 2nd of November. The driver will leave the Tribal Center at 9:45 and start picking up riders. We will be going to Walmart, Fred Meyer, and Safeway. We will return to the Tribal Center at noon.

We can also pick up your grocery orders that you have scheduled for pick-up.

Please RSVP at (360) 432-3951 or

The grocery routes will be Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 noon.


Second around-the-clock closure of SR 108 rescheduled to 2024
State Route 108 near Hurley Waldrip Road had been scheduled to close Oct. 30 to Nov. 13. Instead, the highway will remain open to travelers around-the-clock.

The temporary closure would have allowed initial efforts to replace the existing culvert with a new bridge at Kamilche Creek, a tributary to Skookum Creek. However, the work has been rescheduled to 2024.

Completing work for tributaries to Skookum Creek will require separate two-week closures of the highway. All are located west of Hurley Waldrip Road. WSDOT will announce each closure when they are scheduled.

Fish barrier removal
Correcting fish passage barriers is an important part of the WSDOT’s efforts to protect and restore fish runs negatively affected by outdated culverts under state highways. Replacing outdated culverts with either bridges or fish passable structures will increase the likelihood of fish migration. The improvements will slow water and build the creek to help simulate a more natural creek environment.

Stay connected
Updated information will be available on the project web page: wsdot.wa.gov and search “Kamilche.”

You can also scan the QR code using the camera app on a smartphone to go to our website.

Travelers can get advance notification and real-time information on the WSDOT app and statewide travel map. Sign up for email updates for major roadwork on state highways in Mason County. People can call the project hotline at (564) 225-3289.


Future Pathways


Low Income Incentives




Congratulations Taylor Krise!!!

Designer of Northwest Indian College’s New Logo

As part of the college’s 40th anniversary celebration, NWIC held an open call for submissions for a new logo. Last week, a poll was sent out asking people to select the design they feel best represents NWIC. The result of the poll was shared with the College’s Board of Trustees, who then discussed and approved the selected logo, making the design the new official logo of NWIC. The logo was revealed at the President’s Hy’shqe Gala on Saturday, Sept. 9th.

Taylor says, “This Salish art piece is a testament to the deep reverence and spiritual connection that the Salish people have with the eagle. It invites the viewer to contemplate the eagle’s symbolism of strength, wisdom, and transcendence, while celebrating the rich artistic heritage of the Salish culture.”

NWIC sends big thanks to Taylor for sharing his talents.

Yay Taylor



Emergency Management is looking to collect your input on topics of interest that you might want to know more about and areas to grow for volunteer opportunities to support the community during an emergency or disaster.

Take a few short minutes to take the 6-question survey.


Follow the Deschutes Estuary Restoration Team on Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/DeschutesEstuaryRestorationTeam


https://streamteam.info

You might want to sign up for this quarterly publication:

Stream Team News Fall 2023



Griffin School Transportation
If your child attends Griffin and they will need transportation to and from school, please contact Monica Nerney at (360) 432-3951 or 


Squaxin Island Tribes Logo

Squaxin Island Tribe Hazard Mitigation Plan Update

Build Better. Rebuild Best.

Squaxin Island Tribe is beginning a nine-month journey to assess the natural hazards that it is vulnerable to and identify ways we can reduce the loss of life and property that may result from them. These are long-term strategies that allow us to take action now to improve our resilience to pressures from natural disaster and to rebuild better after a disaster. Learn more about the process and how you can contribute at Hazard Mitigation Plan – Squaxin Island Tribe

Press release


Community Bus Route Survey

https://squaxin.formstack.com/forms/bus_route_survey



Code Red

Don’t forget to sign up for emergency information about situations that are threatening the reservation community.

Squaxin Island Tribe has a new system to keep you in the loop when emergencies occur in the reservation community. This is the best way to keep you and your family safe!

Sign up to receive emails, phone calls, and text messages now at https://public.coderedweb.com/CNE/en-US/BF45D0023AFC

Need more information?

Check out our website https://squaxinisland.org/codered

Contact Kelly at or (360) 463-8505 if you have questions or need help signing up!

Please note this is only for residents living within the Reservation community. You may encounter registration issues if you enter an address outside of the Reservation.


Holly Johnson Named 2024 Regional Teacher of the Year

(Holly is the daughter of Pam and Larry Hillstrom)

Holly Johnson believes in being a pillar of positive support for special needs students and their families.


Squaxin Island Tribe, Partners Look to Revitalize Kelp

Photos by Trevor Pyle, NWIFC



Squaxin Teens AWESOME Video Project


Island Beach Cleanup
Check out what Squaxin Island Natural Resources Department is doing – Staff participated in a semi-annual beach cleanup as part of a larger South Sound event.

On March 29, Squaxin Island Tribe’s Natural Resources Department and Northwest Coast Shellfish Growers Association participated in the cleanup of the beaches surrounding the island.

Filmmaker Bill Lange created this awesome documentary

The trash was taken to Arcadia boat launch, where it was sorted by volunteers.  Many aquaculture items were reused, and items that could be recycled were separated. The rest of the items, that couldn’t be reused or recycled, went to the landfill at the Shelton transfer station (Shelton dump).

Squaxin Island beach clean-up is part of a larger organization of both large and small shellfish growers. The event dumpsters are paid for by Taylor Shellfish and the free lunch provided at the event is sponsored by a different shellfish grower/non-profit organization each time.


Hi Squaxin community! Squaxin’s ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS members believe there’s nothing more unstoppable than when people come together. We just want Squaxin Island members to know that the doors are open and we would honorablly enjoy your participation. We’re simply here for you, especially if you need support. Thank you.


What’s in a Weave?

Ed Carriere, Suquamish Elder and Master Basketmaker, and Dale Croes, former Squaxin Island Tribe archaeologist, were recently interview by KUOW (U of W) radio. Ed has a strong voice and great sense of humor. It is a 12.5 minute long interview. Hope you enjoy it like Ed did!   :  )

Josh Mason, Squaxin Island Tribe, is Ed’s apprentice.

What’s in a Weave?


Treaty Income Verification Form


Enrollment Address Changes

The Enrollment office is responsible for providing address labels to all departments.  We provide the most current address we have for each tribal member, so we need your help.

When you have a change of address, please remember to contact the Enrollment office to complete the address change form.

The (Address change form) is also located on the Enrollment page of the Tribe’s website: https://squaxinisland.org/government/enrollment

You may also stop by and pick up a form from the Tribal Center.


Updated Information

Tiny Homes Amended Community Development Statement

Due to some confusion surrounding the Community Development Statement and the transfer of funds from the Tiny Homes Project to Slocum III.B Project, see explanation below:

Squaxin Island Tribe was awarded the 2020 HUD (Housing and Urban Development) Indian Community Development Block Grant in the amount of $899,997 for the Tiny Home Project. Due to increased cost during COVID, six homes were constructed. The project included the environmental assessment, site prep, and assembly of the tiny home for a total cost of $799,276. The remaining balance of $100,721 wasn’t a sufficient amount to construct any additional homes. The Tribe has requested to transfer the remaining funds to the Slocum Ridge III.B Project (6-plex comprised of 2-bedroom units) instead of returning the money back to HUD.



EPA announces Squaxin Island Tribe is eligible to be treated in a manner similar to a state (TAS) under §518(e) of the Clean Water Act (CWA)

(L) Casey Sixkiller, Regional Director of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA),
and (R) Squaxin Island Tribal Chairman Kris Peters

“It all begins with water quantity and quality,” said Andy Whitener, Squaxin Island Tribe Natural Resources Director. “As a community, as the People of the Water, our very being depends on water quality. It is our lifeblood.” He further explained that the Tribe will now have a seat at the table when others need a federal water permit for a project that may affect the waters on reservation and trust land and the Tribe has begun to develop its own water quality standards.

Casey Sixkiller, the Regional Director of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced at a meeting at the Squaxin Island Tribe Museum Library and Research Center on March 1 that the Squaxin Island Tribe is eligible to be treated in a manner similar to a state (TAS) under §518(e) of the Clean Water Act (CWA).

Because water is the lifeblood of the Tribe’s culture, it is important that the Tribe protect the quality of its reservation waters. Therefore, the Tribe will take its rightful place as a coequal sovereign under the TAS through the CWA and protect reservation waters by setting stringent water quality standards.

TAS status means that the Tribe can implement a water quality program, develop its own water quality standards, and has a say in certifying the projects of others that may impact the waters of the Tribe.

Once TAS is approved, the CWA acts as a vehicle to enforce the Tribe’s sovereign right to regulate and set water quality standards, which the state must respect.

Tribal standards may be used to regulate “upstream” polluters.

On hearing the news, Chairman Peters said, “That is excellent. TAS status is another means to exercise the Squaxin Island Tribe’s sovereignty over its waters. This is an acknowledgement of the Tribe’s sovereignty.” TAS status is an important indication of the Tribe’s sovereignty and a validation of its jurisdiction. Importantly, the CWA is not a grant of conferred authority; it is a federal acknowledgment that the Tribe possesses inherent authority due to its status as a sovereign.

The Chairman lauded the EPA’s efforts. “The EPA recognizes tribal sovereignty, the federal government’s trust responsibility to tribes, and the EPA works with tribes on a government-to-government basis to protect water quality on reservation. We appreciate that greatly.”

To achieve TAS status, the Tribe was required to demonstrate that it has the capability of implementing a water quality program and has jurisdiction over its lands and waters. Andy Whitener noted that the Tribe catalogued for EPA the many NR and General Government programs, grants and agreements with its federal, state, and local partners. The Tribe also provided detailed mapping and land, surface water, and boundary information.

The application and the award can be seen at https://squaxinisland.org/epa-treatment-as-a-state.

The program will apply to the surface and marine waters within the exterior boundary of the reservation, on and off-Island, and on certain trust lands. The EPA recognizes the water-ward boundary of the Island reservation as including the tidelands and submerged waters surrounding Squaxin Island to -18 MLLW.

Tribal Council approved the submission via Resolution 22-46 on July 14, 2022. The Tribe submitted its application for TAS on August 18, 2022

TAS status has been a longtime in the making and was possible because of the years’ long dedication of the Natural Resources Department, and the contributions and collaboration with Executive Services, the Inter-Governmental Liaison, IS (web services), Planning and Community Development (title plant and grant writers), and the Legal Department.

The Tribe joins 10 other Washington tribes with TAS (Chehalis, Jamestown S’Klallam, Kalispel, Lummi, Port Gamble S’Klallam, Puyallup, Quinault, Spokane, Swinomish, and Tulalip).

Squaxin Island Tribal Council, EPA representatives, and Squaxin Island Legal (also thanks to Kevin Lyon) and Natural Resources staff who were instrumental in the project




Elders Activities
Mondays:
Knitting/crocheting 10:30 a.m. – 11:45 a.m.

If you have supplies, please bring them with you as we only have a little.

Tuesdays:
Native paddle chair exercise 11:00 – 12:00 p.m.

If you have your own paddle, please bring it with you.

Wednesdays:
Open to suggestions

Thursdays:
Craft Day 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Native dance 12:00 – 1:00 p.m. (Either watch or join in. It is a no pressure exercise.)

The Elders building will be open during these hours to make crafts for our host luncheon on Thursday, May 11th.


Report Child Abuse


Patriot Angels Support for Veterans
Patriot Angels is a support for Veterans and their spouses to help get additional funding to cover long term care  costs at a facility.

This is their website: https://www.patriotangels.com

Veterans can get up to $3,536 per month to go towards a program they call Aid and Attendance – which are funds to be applied to facility care services.

Here is a video

Here is another video

Fee information: Only if the documentation supports your eligibility, Patriot Angels will charge a one-time fee of $795 for a pre-filing consultation and long term care assessment with a VA accredited attorney before submitting your application to the VA, and follow the process until a benefit is awarded.  IF they are not able to get this completed for the veteran or spouse, they will refund this money.

Patriot Angels helps you streamline your VA benefit application and cuts through the government red tape to properly serve you. .


Squaxin Island Tribes Logo
Family Services Workforce Development Program (WFD)

WFD Flyer


District News



Click on image below to enlarge


Childrens’ Geoduck Check Bank Letter



Chairman Peters Attends National Tribal Nations Summit in WA D.C.

Chairman Kris Peters (photos too) – On November 30th and December 1st, I was so honored to represent the Squaxin Island Tribe at the Tribal Nations Summit in WA D.C.

(Pictured at left are President Biden and Vice President Harris)

Tribal leaders from over 300 tribal nations gathered in Washington at the Department of the Interior for the first in-person Summit of this Administration. The President and members of the Cabinet announced a number of new actions that will build on the progress that has already been made, create new opportunities for tribal consultation and input, and produce lasting changes that will impact the lives of tribal leaders and their citizens for generations to come.

Both indigenous and federal leaders spoke during the two-day event, including, but not limited to Washington State’s Chairwoman Gobin of the Tulalip Tribe, President Biden, Vice President Harris, and Department of Interior Secretary Deb Haaland, Laguna Pueblo.

Since taking office, President Biden has prioritized relationships with tribal nations that are built on respect for tribal sovereignty and self-governance, honoring federal trust and treaty responsibilities, protecting tribal homelands, and conducting regular, meaningful, and robust consultation. The President has also advanced an economic agenda that includes historic levels of funding specifically for tribal communities and native people, including $32 billion in the American Rescue Plan (ARP), $13 billion in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL), and $700 million in the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA).

Please read the 2022 Tribal Nations Summit Report for more details:
FACT SHEET

When not at the Summit, I took time to meet with Washington State leadership, including WA Congressman Kilmer, Congresswomen Strickland, and Congresswoman Schrier to discuss local issues and advocate for federal funds and local tribal initiatives like language revitalization, water quality, salmon restoration, federal trust responsibility, and recognition of Squaxin sovereignty and treaty rights, among other things.

Please feel free to reach out to me directly if you would like to discuss the trip further and any ideas you may have for potential future trips to D.C. .

President Biden’s remarks at the Summit: can be found here:
PRESIDENT’S REMARKS:

Thank you for allowing me to serve you!

Washington State Tribal Leaders


Laurinda Thomas  (360) 338-5285




Elders
Please take this short survey about the meal program
It is time for Family Services to reapply for the Elders meal program grant, and we want to ask you a few quick questions. This survey will take less than five minutes and, by completing it, you will help the program make sure we are meeting the community needs. Thank you so much!

Here is the link for the survey: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/5QTRWN2


Estuary is preferred alternative for Capitol Lake, state says | The Olympian




ICDBG Community Development Statement

ICDBG Community Meeting Announcement 2022


Community Survey
Squaxin Community . . .  Elder or Parent/Guardian ~ We would like you to take our survey as we continue to plan for the year.

https://squaxin.formstack.com/forms/afterschoolprogram



NOTICE
All ATV’s, UTV’s, and side-by-sides should strictly adhere to limited riding on established paths and roadways on tribal property. We have been experiencing more traffic off established paths and roadways leading to damage to timberland and newly planted trees.  Fenced gated areas are to protect immature trees from wildlife.  Thank You for protecting OUR LANDS and valuable RESOURCES.


Malynn Foster and Andrea Wilbur-Sigo
Complete Major Art Projects in Seattle

Click here for King 5 video


Chairman’s Challenge (Sept. 12) Winners
1st Place (Score 59) $75 per player
Daniel Kuntz (second from right)
Scott Erdkes
Danny Meyers
Alex Wendel

2nd Place (Score 63) $50 per player
Dave Whitener, Jr.
Sheena Prante
Vince Henry
Margaret Henry

3rd Place (Score 64) $25 per Player
Will Henderson
Josh Henderson
Tim Lenox
Lee Pilon

Skill Prizes
KP Men – Pat Whitener
KP Women – Kayla Johnston
Long Drive Men – Lee Pilon
Long Drive Women – Stephanie Seig


Way to go Randy Foster!

* Click on image to play video

Randy Foster, behind the tuba player, played his guitar for the Shelton High School Marching Band at Husky Stadium on Saturday, September 10th.


Joe Seymour’s art dedicated in downtown Olympia
Dedication of Joe Seymour’s  “Welcome to Squaxin Territory” and “Land of the Raven” murals took place on September 9th at 10:00 a.m.

Address: Corner of Water Street and State Street

Photos by Joe Seymour and Margaret Henry




Recycling Reminders


Help for Homeowners in Need

If you have experienced a financial hardship due to COVID-19 that resulted in mortgage delinquency, we may be able to help.

Attention: Squaxin Island Tribal Homeowners(on or off reservation)

The Squaxin Island Tribe, Office of Housing has received funding through the Department of Treasury for the Homeowner Assistance Fund (HAF) We are accepting applications from Squaxin Island Tribal homeowners who meet the following criteria:

1. You own the home you live in and it is your primary residence, on or off reservation.

2. You have you experienced financial hardship due to Covid-19 (after January 21, 2020) from one of the following:

· Mortgage delinquencies

· Foreclosure

· Unpaid property tax

· Past due utilities

· Home displacement due to critical home repairs (roof, structure damage)

3. Your income falls at or below these guidelines:

1 person ($63,000)2 persons ($72,000)3 persons ($81,000)4 persons ($90,000)5 persons ($97,200)6 persons ($104,400)7 persons ($111,600)8 persons ($118,800)

Please use this link to fill out the HAF application. or you may also request a copy of the application from the contacts listed below.

Squaxin HAF application

Squaxin Financial Assistance Form – HAF

Release of Information

If you have any questions please contact: Lisa Peters  (360) 432-3871

OR

Liz Kuntz  (360) 432-3937


Over 40 years ago, the Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA) was passed to prevent the separation of Native families which has been happening for centuries. Today, the constitutionality of ICWA is being challenged in front of the Supreme Court.

If our opponents succeed in overturning ICWA, they will have cleared the way for the destruction of Native families, Native land, and tribal rights. In order to prevent this from happening, the Protect ICWA Campaign is looking for your support.

3 Steps You Can Take Today to Stay Informed:

· Sign up for the Protect ICWA newsletter

· Follow @protecticwa on Instagram

· Follow @protecticwa on Twitter

The Protect ICWA Campaign was established by four national Native organizations: the National Indian Child Welfare Association, the National Congress of American Indians, the Association on American Indian Affairs, and the Native American Rights Fund. Together, the Campaign works to serve and support Native children, youth, and families through upholding the Indian Child Welfare Act. The Campaign works to inform policy, legal, and communications strategies with the mission to uphold and protect ICWA.

Thank you for your time and support, we greatly appreciate your help!

– The Protect ICWA Campaign


Washington Tribes Economic Impact


National Maternal Mental Health Hotline Now Available
For help when it’s needed, call or text the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline

1-833-9-HELP4MOMS (1-833-943-5746)

TTY Users can use a preferred relay service or dial 711 and then 1-833-943-5746.

Available 24/7, the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline provides free, confidential support, resources, and referrals from professional counselors to pregnant and postpartum individuals facing mental health challenges.

If you have any questions about the hotline service, please see our online Frequently Asked Questions.


Great News
We now have a DSHS staff member at the Health Promotions Building across from the clinic.

She can help with applications, eligibility reviews, and questions, etc for:
• Food benefits (SNAP)
• Cash assistance programs (income based)
• Medical (Medicaid)

Keiya Johnson (first name pronounced “Kia” like the car)
e-mail:
extension: 3920
phone: 360-432-3920
cell: 360-401-9094

She will be here Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. with lunch from 12:00 to 1:00 p.m.


Helping Low-Income Households Cover Internet Costs
A reliable broadband internet connection is becoming more and more important for households to meet their online work, school, and healthcare needs, and the OFA’s Affordable Connectivity Program is helping make sure low-income households aren’t left behind.

The ACP is a Federal Communications Commission (FCC) program to help low-income households pay for internet service and connected devices. The program doesn’t affect eligibility for DSHS programs and eligible households may receive:

• Up to $30 a month discount on internet service.
• Up to $75 a month discount if the household is on Qualifying Tribal lands.
• A one-time discount of up to $100 for a laptop, table, or desktop computer
(with a co-payment of more than $10 but less than $50).

Who’s Eligible?
Households with income at or below 200 percent of the poverty level are eligible for the subsidy.

Some households are automatically eligible for the ACP, without the need to prove their income, if at least one member of the household:

Receives benefits from certain federal programs (National School Lunch Program, Medicaid, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Supplemental Security Income (SSI), WIC, and others).

Participates in one of these assistance programs and lives on Qualifying Tribal lands (BIA General Assistance, Tribal TANF, Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations, Tribal Head Start (Income Based))

Only one monthly service discount and one device discount is allowed per household. Not all participating internet service providers offer device discounts.

There is no federal requirement to include ACP benefits when determining or redetermining eligibility for TANF, and OFA encourages grantees to exclude them.

Learn More
Eligible households can enroll in the ACP through an approved provider or by visiting ACPBenefit.org or GetInternet.gov.

Visit the ACP program site to learn more, or check out this White House fact sheet.

If you have any questions you can send an e-mail to or call 877-384-2575.


Shellfish trafficking case becomes flashpoint for NW tribal treaty rights


Squaxin Island Parks and Rec Logo Design Winner
Evergreen Summer by Janelle Krise
“Why? I challenged myself and my ability to do something challenging. Why a sun? I wanted to create a piece that reminded you of an evergreen summer, because there is a lot of adventure in the Summer R.O.O.T.S Camp and you see a lot of evergreens in the summer in the Pacific Northwest.”
– Janelle Krise


Early Head Start
Early Head Start (EHS) is a federal program that promotes the school readiness of children from birth to age three for low-income families by enhancing their cognitive, social, and emotional development.

Who is Eligible?
Children birth to three years old who:
· Meet annual income requirements; and/or
· Qualify for special education services; and/or
· Have developmental or environmental risk factors

EHS gives priority to those who:
Meet eligibility requirements and:
· Are in foster care or involved with the child welfare system; and/or
· Are homeless

Benefits of EHS:
· Early childhood education in part day, full day, or extended day classrooms
· Social and emotional development
· Nutritious meals and snacks
· Health screenings and connections to medical, dental, and mental health services
· Family support services
· Parent education and leadership opportunities

Early Childhood Education and Assistance Program
The Early Childhood Education and Assistance Program is a FREE preschool program for eligible children and their families. ECEAP focuses on the well-being of the whole child by providing nutrition, health, education, and family support services.

The goal of ECEAP is to help all children enter kindergarten ready to succeed.

Who is Eligible?
Children three or four years old by August 31, based on the following:
· Annual income meets requirements; and/or
· Qualifies for special education services; and/or
· Has developmental or environmental risk factors; and/or
· Is a member of a federally recognized tribe; and/or
· Is a descendant of a member of a recognized tribe

ECEAP gives priority to those who:
Meet eligibility requirements and:
· Will be in kindergarten the following year; and/or
· Is in foster care or involved with the child welfare system; and/or
· Is homeless

Address and Phone
3851 SE Old Olympic Hwy
Shelton, WA 98584
(360) 426-1390


New tax opportunity for hunting and gathering supplies

The Washington State Department of Revenue recently updated its guidance to provide a state sales tax exemption for the off-reservation purchase of treaty fishing, hunting, and gathering supplies. Previously, only the exemption for off-reservation fishing purchases was acknowledged by the state. A revised exemption form and additional information is available through the link below.

https://dor.wa.gov/taxes-rates/retail-sales-tax/tribal-fishing-hunting-and-gathering



FYI

Mason County MACECOM


Northwest Justice Project
Northwest Justice Project is hosting ongoing legal clinics for anyone who has questions about their children’s special education plans and schooling. This is totally free and can hopefully help parents who may not realize that legal services can help them navigate these hard situations.

Special Education Legal Clinic


Congratulations Ben Parker!!!

University graduates first Native with PhD in math


Congratulations Ed Carriere, Suquamish,
friend of Squaxin Island Tribe,
and First Peoples Fund
2022 Community Spirit Award Honoree

Details Here

Ed helped with basket excavations at
Squaxin Island Tribe’s Mud Bay site


Phishing (Not this kind of fishing) . . .

Learn about phishing


Basket Weavers: Some books and videos you may enjoy

NEW: Cordage [and Knots] from the Ozette Village Archaeological Site, A Technological, Functional, and Comparative Study [with 40 years of updated cordage information from other NWC Wet Sites]

Basketry from the Ozette Village Archaeological Site, A Technological, Functional an Comparative Study

Review: https://ormsbyreview.com/2020/01/29/733-laforet-croes-ozette-basketry-time-capsule/

Re-Awakening Ancient Salish Sea Basketry by Ed Carriere and Dale R. Croes

Review: https://ormsbyreview.com/2019/01/17/462-baskets-across-the-border/

Hakai Magazine article: https://www.hakaimagazine.com/features/the-basketmaker/

TWO New Woodlanders Video SALISH SEA BASKETRY: https://vimeo.com/333492262 and SALISH

CEDAR CANOES: https://vimeo.com/353695322 featuring Ed Carriere, Suquamish Elder


Squaxin Island Tribe Gains Access to Ancestral Lands



Planning and Community Development
Invites qualified businesses and contractors to register with us.

Register at:
https://www.squaxinisland.org/contractor-registration

Contact:
Diane Deyette, Facilities Planner
or (360) 432-3833
10 SE Squaxin Lane, Shelton, WA 98584


Squaxin Island Tribe’s own Damian Henry interviewed on Daybreak Star radio


Call for Cultural Teachers
Squaxin Island Child Development Center and Parks and Recreation are looking for cultural teachers. We are calling for people with knowledge of singing, drumming, and plant medicine. Teachers will instruct and mentor our staff and other teachers. If you are interested, please turn in a proposal to Janita Raham at .


Squaxin Island Tribe Logo

Squaxin Island Tribe and Port Blakely

Announce Historic Land Transactions

– – –

Seattle Times Article

Port Blakely returned this 2-mile beachfront property on the Little Skookum
Inlet in Mason County to the Squaxin Island Tribe for no charge . . .
(Courtesy of Port Blakely Companies)


Please Update Your Contact Information
The Elders program is updating contact information: Email & phone numbers.

We want to make sure we have your correct contact information for the Elders newsletter and information on trips, etc. that we send out via email.

Please email the Elders Program Manager with your contact information:
or call (360) 432-3844

or

Elders Assistant Annie-Beth Henry
or call (360) 432-3892

Doing this will help us make sure you get every notification.


Squaxin Island Tribal Elders parking spaces available at the casino just across from the main entrance!


Dedication of “Unity” at the Eastside St Art Crossing
Artist/Carver Andrea Wilbur Sigo, the Squaxin Island Tribe and City of Olympia invited the tribal community to join in the dedication of People of the Water and Tree People, two individual sculptures flanking the bridge on Eastside St., together entitled “Unity.”

People of the Water
The second installation of the eight part Olympia Art Crossings Project, Unity tells the story of community made stronger by standing together, and are reflective of the house posts of the Salish dwellings that once covered all the shores of the Salish Sea. The sculptures are carved from old growth red cedar and illuminated with solar power.

Tree People

Dedication Event Details (Rain or Shine)
Saturday, December 4th, at 3:00 p.m.

Trailhead to the Karen Fraser Woodland Trail, 1600 Eastside SE.

Contact
Stephanie Johnson, Arts Program Manager
Olympia Parks, Arts & Recreation
(360) 709.2678

Andrea Wilbur Sigo carving welcome pole for new Native American housing complex

Native Artist Lunch Talk Series-Andrea Wilbur-Sigo

Starbucks highlights Coast Salish art with this five-piece holiday collection

* Andrea’s design is the peach colored mug.

Andrea Wilbur-Sigo: Reflection + Metamorphosis


Slocum Ridge III. Multi-Family Housing Project

Community Development Statement


Evergreen Board of Trustees Welcomes Kris Peters

The Evergreen State College is pleased to announce the appointment of Kristopher Peters as the newest member appointed to the Board of Trustees. Before his appointment as the Squaxin Island Tribal Chair, Kris worked for three years as the Tribal Administrator, and has nearly 20 years of experience working in public safety and social work in Indian country. He has also worked as an adjunct professor at the Evergreen State College in Indigenous Studies.

Kris holds a Bachelor of Arts degree with an emphasis on Federal Indian Law and Tribal Governance and a Master of Public Administration degree from The Evergreen State College.

Thurston Talk


Centennial Accord
Photos by Tiffany Royal, NWIFC

Chairman Peters – Tribal leaders from throughout the state met with Governor Jay Inslee and other state leaders at the 32nd annual Centennial Accord meeting Wednesday, Oct. 27, at the Skookum Creek Event Center on the Squaxin Island Tribal reservation. The annual meeting focuses on cementing the government-to-government relationship between the state and Tribes.

Washington state Tribal leaders focused on Tribal sovereignty and pushed Gov. Inslee for continued salmon recovery legislation language and enforcement of fishing treaty rights. Inslee was criticized by some Tribal leaders for his decision to veto sections of the Climate Commitment Act supported by Tribes and concerns were raised on the enforcement policies of WDFW and the fisheries co-management process. Inslee was praised for climate action and his ongoing commitment to address culverts, riparian zones, water quality and he was celebrated for the appointment of Tribal members to leadership positions and a willingness to meet with Tribal Nations.

Thank you Squaxin Veterans, Drummers, and Singers!


Tribe | City of Olympia Sign Accord



Olympic College Scholarship Fund and Memorial Bench at Salish Cliffs Dedicated to Mark Snyder

Jeremie Walls –
I am proud to announce the unveiling of the Mark Snyder memorial bench at Salish Cliffs’ own Hole 14.

We at Skookum Construction and the Squaxin Island Youth Council are also proud to announce the Mark Snyder Memorial Trades Scholarship at Olympic College. It will serve tribal members and descendants 17-30 years of age. Proceeds from the Skookum Shootout will help fund this scholarship. Thank you Squaxin Tribal Council, Greg Lehman (blessing), Salish Cliffs Golf Course, and Little Creek Casino Resort. We, the family, cannot say how proud and thankful we are.

Mark Snyder Memorial Scholarship Gift Agreement

Scholarship Application

Student Applicant Scholarship Checklist

Scholarship applications can also be found at skookumconstruction.com.


Evergreen Raises Squaxin Flag


SPIPA Foster Home Program


The garden is accepting volunteers!
We really appreciate the help. It lifts our spirits and brightens our moods to have help tending the gardens. Even just an hour of assistance can go a long way. The garden crew is typically scheduled Monday-Thursday, 8:00 – 4:30. We ask that volunteers contact us in advance to schedule a time to come down.

Elizabeth’s office number is (360) 432-3978
Aleta’s office number is (360) 432-3984


Winter General Body Questions


In case you missed it, you can watch the

Celebration of Life for Pete Kruger here