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Snee-Nee-Chum | P.O. Box 157 | Deming, WA 98244 Volume 4, Number 9 April, 2015
Family Services: Connecting with Families Like Never BeforeThe Nooksack Family Services Department has
been working hard to connect with families in new and different ways. Whether in their homes, at their schools, or at canoe races, ICW workers are seeing the children on their caseload regularly and actively reaching out to families who may be at risk for abuse and neglect before there is a crisis. Similarly, Child Support case managers are no longer waiting in their offices for parents to come in for appointments. They’re now going out to meet the parents wherever they may be, whether in their homes, in jail, or at work.
Nooksack ICW puts tremendous energy into creatively working with families to prevent the need to remove their children. The old notion that ICW is simply “out to take your kids” has never been more outdated. Nooksack ICW reaches out to every family who has been the subject of a CPS referral even if the referral did not screen in high enough to be investigated by the state. The outreach looks different for every family and is tailored to each family’s specific needs. Outreach can mean offering referrals for counseling at Behavioral Health, or referring a parent for assistance with substance abuse or domestic violence prevention. Outreach can also include home visitation, transportation and assisting with setting up necessary health care appointments for children. Sometimes, outreach can simply consist of visiting a family and saying, “We are concerned for you. Is there something we can help you with?”
Similarly, the Nooksack Child Support Program works tirelessly to assist parents to be in the position to support their children. Nooksack Child Support is about so much more than, “taking your money.” Recently, the Nooksack Child Support Program has engaged multiple
parents who have been unemployed for several years and provided them with transportation to job readiness classes in town. Not only are these parents learning new skills but they are also getting used to having a routine, to feeling the pride that comes with having a purpose each and every day. continued on page 3
U P C O M I N G E V E N T S April 22: Mother Earth Day (Tribe closed) | April 24-26: Youth Co-Ed Basketball Tournament | May 9 & 10: Mother’s Day Canoe Races
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Snee-Nee-Chum Table of ContentsFamily Services: Connecting with Families Like Never Before …………… 1, 3Upcoming Events …………………………………………………………… 1Tax Preparation for Elders …………………………………………………… 2Low impact Exercise ………………………………………………………… 2How to Submit News to the Snee-Nee Chum Newsletter ………………… 3Meet the 2015 Champions for Change! ……………………………………… 4Teens attend Youth Conference; Youth Department plans fun activities … 5Nooksack Way of Life offers Coast Salish Art on a Drum Class …………… 5Nooksack Tribal Education Department ………………………………… 6-8Volunteers Needed …………………………………………………………… 8Mt. Baker Youth Basketball Team …………………………………………… 9Youth Co-Ed Basketball Tournament ………………………………………… 9Washington State Council for Social Studies Leadership Conference … 10Battle to Paddle Crossfit Competition Fundraiser …………………………11Social Services is here to help! ………………………………………… 12-142015 Food Bank Distribution ……………………………………………… 12Congratulations to Bobbie Hillaire, Denise Jefferson & Tasha Yatchmeneff! ………………… 132015 - STOWW - Commodity Foods ……………………………………… 13Congratulations Waylon on Taking 1st Place! …………………………… 14Happy 10th Birthday JJ …………………………………………………… 14No Reservations Speakers Meeting ……………………………………… 15Billy Frank Jr. Day Inaugural Celebration ………………………………… 16Call to Artists ……………………………………………………………… 17Community Emergency Response Team Training ……………………… 18Nooksack Emergency Management Class ……………………………… 18Congratulations! Look at them Now! …………………………………… 19April 2015 – National Sexual Assault Awareness Month ………………… 20The Fitness Center Has Moved! …………………………………………… 21For Earth Day, Quotable Native Wisdom About the Environment ……… 22Genesis ll Alcohol/Addiction Recovery Corner …………………………… 22Get Into The Act - Older Americans Month, May 2015 …………………… 23Nooksack Automotive Dept. ……………………………………………… 24Welcome Robin Giddings ………………………………………………… 24Nooksack’s Special Olympians went to Wenatchee for State competition on February 28, 29 and 30th ………………………………… 24The Nooksack Indian Tribe Natural Resource Department ……………… 25A Call for Tradition ………………………………………………………… 26April 9th – Birch Bay Clam Bake …………………………………………… 28Get involved with Earth Day! ……………………………………………… 29Thank you for your Service Airman Kevin Allan Ramsarran, Nooksack Tribal Member ……………………… 30Nooksack Northwood Casino …………………………………………… 30Elders Lunch Menu ………………………………………………………… 312015 Holiday Calendar……………………………………………………… 32Administrative Contacts …………………………………………………… 32
Tax Preparation for Elders
Frank Leyva will be at the
Social Service Building onApril 10th: 9 AM to 11:30 AM
If you have any questions,please feel free to contact
Tresea Doucette at360 592-0135 ext 3670 or
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Family Services: Connecting with Families Like Never Before, continued from page 1
How to Submit News to the Snee-Nee-Chum NewsletterYou may submit news items or department updates for consideration to Charity Bernard at
[email protected]. Items for the May newsletter must be submitted by April 20.
Questions? Call Charity at (360) 592-5176 extension 3287. n
Both programs that make up the Family Services Department strive to protect the sovereignty of the Nooksack Tribe. Rather than child welfare cases being handled by state agencies alone, cases are co-managed by the Nooksack ICW and state. For the first time in over ten years, dependencies are being filed in the Nooksack Tribal Court. (Dependency is the name given to child welfare cases where children are removed from their parent’s care and made “dependents” of the tribe or state.) We have also transferred multiple cases from state court to the Nooksack Tribal court. Finally, all CPS referrals involving Nooksack children are investigated jointly by state and Nooksack ICW workers. Although many tribes in Washington are involved in state child welfare cases involving their children, Nooksack’s participation from the very start is unique.
Nooksack Child Support is also a fierce protector of tribal sovereignty. Rather than tribal members’ cases being sent to state agencies as they were historically, tribal clients are served by the Tribe – in Tribal court by Tribal staff. This leads to better service to clients and in turn more collections for Tribal children. For clients whose cases are already in the state system, Child Support works to either: 1) transfer cases to Tribal jurisdiction so they can be managed under Nooksack regulations; or 2) if transfer is not possible, serve as a liaison between client and the state system.
All of this outreach and consistent and active case management has led to the following positive results:
• A reduction in dependencies being filed. At the start of 2013, there were 24 dependencies involving Nooksack Children. As of November, 2014, there are now 11 active cases.
• In the past year, no Nooksack children have been placed outside of the Nooksack community, except to be with family or “fictive-kin”. (Fictive-kin refers to a family home that is not biologically related to a child but is a family friend that has been in the child’s life previously).
• In the past year, all Nooksack children who have been removed from their parent’s homes have been placed with family or fictive-kin.
• Washington State CPS has closed many of their investigations because Nooksack ICW has been able to work directly with the families on a voluntary basis.
• In 2013, Nooksack Child Support collected $128,293 on behalf of Nooksack children.
Our work has been noticed by our state partners. Alex Fitzstrawn, the supervisor of the Tribal CPS unit in Whatcom County writes:
Over the last two years Nooksack has done an amazing job in transforming their ICW program from a position of reactive care to a passionate advocacy of proactive and preventative care in the arena of child safety and family unity. Their approach in addressing needs and concerns before they escalate into crisis has reduced the number of Nooksack children that are in a position to need removal from their homes to keep them safe and has generally reduced the number of Nooksack families that come to the attention of C.P.S.. As well their ability and willingness to case manage and take charge of providing culturally relevant and appropriate services for Nooksack families through Voluntary Services independent of State intervention has been a leap forward in engaging and motivating families to engage in the process of change. Over the last 2 years, a true partnership and collaborative approach to serving Nooksack families has finally come to fruition. Each and every case that comes to the attention of CPS is addressed in tandem with a state worker and a Nooksack ICW worker which has greatly increased our communication with each other and the families we serve and in turn this improved partnership has increased our ability to keep children safe.
The success of these programs would not be possible without the hard work of the dedicated Family Services staff. Nor would it be possible without the assistance of our tribal partners, such as, Genesis, Behavioral Health, Clinic, Law Enforcement, SAMHSA, Education, Housing, TANF, and more.
Despite our recent success, we recognize we have a great deal more to learn and to improve upon. Please don’t hesitate to contact us if you have any suggestions on how we can better serve families in the Nooksack community. n
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Hamilton Seymour is a proud Nooksack youth. His parents are Joe & Lona Johnson.
He currently serves as our Nooksack Teen Council Vice Chair. He also represents all of the Northwest Tribes on the United National Indian Tribal Youth (UNITY) Executive Committee.
Recently, Hamilton was one of five selected as a Champion for Change, which is a program sponsored through Center for Native American Youth. There were over 60 applicants nationwide and Hamilton proudly represents Nooksack.
Hamilton is a high school sophomore preserving culture and promoting a healthy lifestyle through traditional sports. After losing his father to suicide, Hamilton became an avid Native War Canoe racer and is organizing his peers to create a new youth canoe racing team. By engaging other youth, Hamilton believes canoe racing has the power to promote healthy lifestyles, prevent suicide and substance abuse, address bereavement and grief, and heal.
“An athlete must be strong physically, spiritually, mentally and emotionally. This is why I have chosen war canoe racing, a traditional sport to promote health and mental wellness. The initiative not only brings life back to a traditional and endangered sport of war canoe racing, but it honors our elders and brings back the teachings and practices of our schlengen–our way of life.” n
(photo at right) Hamilton Seymour, Nooksack Indian Tribe, age 16, Bellingham, WA
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Teens attend Youth Conference;Youth Department plans fun activities
Our Tribe’s Youth Department is as busy as ever with planning and delivering such healthy, educational, bonding and fun activities for our kids and teens.
The department is currently in the process of scheduling our very active summer program, which will start on June 22 and include the highly-anticipated annual trips to the Woodland Park Zoo, Wild Waves, a Mariner’s Game, Birch Bay Waterslides and more! Please remember that we’ll need all of our caregivers and parents to complete Summer Program forms from May through June in order for any of our kids and teens to participate. We’ll be sure to host a Summer Program Barbecue in June to help celebrate summer and so families can complete the Summer Program forms. The Youth Department will also be hiring for several Summer Program Aides in May. Be sure to watch www.nooksacktribe.org/departments/humanresources for these job openings in May.
The Tribe’s nine teens that earned good grades and so professionally fundraised recently earned the reward of attending the Northwest Indian Youth Conference in Fort Hall, Idaho. The teens and chaperones attended
with Native youth from throughout the Western and Midwestern states for this “Warriors of the Rezolution” conference that was hosted by the Shoshone-Bannock Tribes. The teens had a blast with a traditional foods dinner, fun run and walk, basketball tournament, talent and fashion show, speech contest, DJ battle, a college/resource fair and a social powwow. Many thanks goes to everyone who helped our teens fundraise so they could attend this cultural and positive development conference. We’ll be sure to include photos from the conference in the next edition of Snee-Nee-Chum.
This year’s Spring Break for our local school districts is April 6 to 10. As usual, the Youth Department has so many great activities planned for each day of Spring Break that our program participants won’t want to miss, including bowling, swimming, roller skating, a movie and a trip to Bellingham’s Trampoline Zone. Please remember that our Spring Break field trips are open to registered After School Program kids and teens.
For more information, please call the Youth Department at (360) 966-9696. n
Nooksack Way of Life’s Prevention Specialist, Michael Jimmy, is currently offering a Coast Salish Art on a Drum Class for Nooksack youth, ages 13-18. Students in the class learn to draw Coast Salish images on a provided leather drum and then paint their images in traditional colors. Class size is limited to five students per session and the next session will be begin in April after school Spring Break. Drums and art materials are provided by the program. Class starts at 3:00 p.m. and lasts until 5:00 p.m.; it is offered Tuesdays and Wednesdays at the Genesis II building. For more information about the art class, please contact Michael Jimmy at [email protected] or call him at 966-7704. n
Nooksack Way of Life offers Coast Salish Art on a Drum Class
(clockwise from upper left) Keshawn Baily, Terrance
McKay and Tierra McKay, Tierra McKay, Danielle
McKay, and Michael Jimmy.
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In the academic classrooms we have been putting an emphasis on supporting language through art projects and fun activities. We created a word wall in our elementary classroom so the children can see what they have learned and practice daily. Some of the highlights have been doing a unit on the word “star” where we did several star projects. We also created number flip cards and craft pages to use for practicing numbers 1-5. We practice every day! Please join us in extending congratulations to the Penguins for their win in the “Race for Knowledge” and our “Star of the Week” winners. Way to go!
Nooksack Tribal Education Department
(top row) Stars of the Week: Kaitlyn, Feb 9; Ravenia, Feb 16; Sophia, Feb. 23; (middle row) Stars of the Week: Sammy, March 2; Pedro, March 9; Eldon, March 13; (bottom row) Frederick is proud of the wooden star necklace he made.
Trent and Brandon love bringing out their engineering skills with Legos.
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(top photo) Proud members of the “Penguins”
group (Makalie, Chayleigh, Saraya) celebrate their win for The
Race for Knowledge!(photo at left)
Keke and Makalie show us their number flip charts for practicing
numbers.(photos below)
Chayleigh got creative and made an entire family of stars during our
star unit. Nika shows off her art project for practicing numbers 1-5.
Addendum to the Education Department
March newsletter submission
In library news, we have been steadily moving our collection from the old Deming site to the Timber Ridge site so the library can be staffed and used on a daily basis. We have moved approximately 75% of the collection so far. We have also added hundreds of new titles including popular requests, Native American authors, magazine subscriptions and books for all ages and genres. We are very proud of how the library is coming along and love to see it being used so often!
In upcoming events we have the elder’s Digital Literacy Lab. The Digital Literacy Lab will be offering classes for elders to learn computer skills on iPad mini tablets. Our elders will learn basic tablet skills and become familiar with internet research, social networking sites, email and genealogy research. The classes will most likely be during the day after elder’s lunch and include some night technology classes as well. This program will run for approximately 16 weeks. The classes will be free and we are hoping to recruit some teen volunteers to help out with the labs. Let us know if you are interested in helping! Stay tuned for more news on this exciting opportunity. We will be sending out flyers and making announcements as soon as staff and equipment are all in place. If you have questions about upcoming library programs you can call Charise Wenzl at Education: 966-9696 ext 4109 or email [email protected].
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Services & Resources available to Nooksack Tribal MembersBIA Higher Education Scholarship:
The Bureau of Indian Affairs provides supplemental financial assistance to eligible Nooksack Tribal members seeking a baccalaureate degree. This grant program is not an entitlement program. In order to be eligible for BIA Higher Ed one must:
• Be a Nooksack enrolled tribal member
• Must demonstrate financial need as determined by the financial aid officer of your college or university
• Must be accepted for admission to a nationally accredited institution of higher education which provides a course of study conferring the Associate of Arts or Bachelor of Arts or Science degree
• Be a full-time student
• Complete application requirements
Your college or university’s financial aid office will determine your eligibility for the various types of aid available by reviewing the data you submitted on the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Most students who demonstrate need will receive some type of assistance. Submit the FAFSA as soon as possible after January 1, 2015. This will allow you to be considered for all types of aid that are offered by your college or university.
You must be officially admitted and matriculated in a program leading to an undergraduate degree.
BIA AVT - Adult Vocational and Technical Training Scholarship
The purpose of AVT is to program vocational training and career development and enhancement services to improve skills, provide increased employment opportunities and reduce reliance on welfare programs.
Lorraine Zapata, Employment Career Coordinator will assist you in completing applications for acceptance into local vocational training institutions in preparation
for employment upon completion of a vocational program. She will also assist with providing successful applicants with assistance for cost for training and other expenses such as books, supplies or tools. Lorraine will also help you complete your application before it goes to the Education Advisory Committee for Review and financial awards.
Grants will be awarded based upon need and available funding. Vocational training grants are awarded for the length of the training program, not to exceed two years, as long as the student demonstrates adequate progress.
Johnson O’Malley Program
The Johnson O’Malley Program provides supple-mentary financial assistance to meet the unique and specialized educational need of tribal children who are in grades K-12. Here is a list or example of allowable costs:
• Registration fees
• ASB Cards
• Locker Fees
• Class Fees
• Books (if student loses and/or destroys classroom text-books, JOM fund will not cover this loss)
School sanctioned trips as it’s related to education including band, school recognized educational clubs, sports, special events or other educational related activities. This is limited to one time costs only per academic year. The student will need to be in good academic and attendance status as defined by the child’s school to be eligible for funding. Funding will be limited to direct costs only (contingent upon the availability of funding). For a complete listing and amounts awarded, please ask Lorraine Zapata for a JOM Handbook.
Contact Lorraine Zapata for an application for any three of these BIA funded services by calling 360 966 9696 or emailing her at [email protected]. n
Volunteers NeededVolunteers are needed for the upcoming Mother’s
Day Canoe Races (the weekend of May 8th). The types of volunteers needed are: lunch makers, tee-shirt folders and sorters, assemblers for brown bags for the canoe families, licensed drivers, supervisors for clean-up crew, and many more volunteers.
Please contact Abbie Smith at 360-305-7947 or by email at [email protected] to sign-up to give support or for more information. n
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This great group of boys had an amazing season. As with all teams, we started out with learning curves, but as time progressed each player became more confident and eager. We are very proud of each and every one of these young boys for their commitment and dedication to each and every practice and game.
March 11th, was there last game of the extended season. The season was extended by three weeks. For the all-stars league, it was a high-intensity and tough game. The team, like the Seahawks, is a second-half team. During the last game, the boys had the game in their favor but in the end were not able to clinch the “W”.
The boys, all cousins, had a lot of fun and can hardly wait for next season to come! n
Mt. Baker Youth Basketball Team
(photo at right) Mount Baker Acme Boys 4th grade basketball team
Youth Co-Ed Basketball Tournament Nooksack Indian Tribe will be hosting a co-ed basketball tournament on April 24th – April 26th, for youth
K-12. Each team needs to consist of 5-10 players and pay a fee of $200.00 per team to enter.Grades K-3 will be playing April 24th at Everson Elementary (times to be determined).Grades 4-12 will be playing April 25th and 26th at Mount Baker High School (times to be determined).Please contact Chris Pash at 360-966-7704 (ext 2256) or [email protected], for more information. n
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This year’s Washington State Council for Social Studies Leadership Conference (WSCSS) was held March 6-8. WSCSS is an annual teacher training in Chelan. This year its featured theme was The Power of Stories: From Native Washington to Global Movements. The theme evolved from a conversation held between a Nooksack Way of Life (NWoL) employee, WSCSS directors, and Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI). The sixteen hour conference featured renowned Native American, teachers, entertainers, and professional speakers.
On Friday night the conference was opened with the assistance of Patsy Whitefoot and young dancers from Yakama. After dinner the keynote speaker Valerie Segrest, Muckleshoot, spoke about traditional native foods available locally from the mountain tops, to the flowing rivers, and throughout the sea beds of the ocean. Swil Kanim, Lummi, entertained the teachers during their lunch break on Saturday. Immediately after lunch, a panel of tribal members addressed teachers questions about implementing culturally sensitive materials into lesson plans and overall best teaching practices.
During the Saturday evening meal, the keynote speaker, Sarah Augustine from a New Mexico Tribe, spoke about the Doctrine of Discovery. A legal document that is still being used to undermine indigenous people around the world by the dominant church.
After Sunday morning breakfast, NWoL Education Specialist, Victoria Mayers presented with Michael Vendiola, Swinomish, and the current Indian Education Supervisor for OSPI. Their table discussed the requirements surrounding the mandated 1495 legislation.
Michael, discussed how the terminology will be changed from “recommended” to “required” in the next teaching year. Meaning public schools will now be required to teach local Native American content. Victoria provided a handout and offered real life examples for teachers to use when adapting their programs and lessons.
The exciting fact about this conference was that teachers really enjoyed the theme. They said it was one of the best conferences they had attended. With such positive reinforcement, the NWoL team has approached the OSPI Language Art Supervisor and requested that their future English Language conference revolve around a Native American Theme as well. As of this writing, the OSPI supervisor has agreed to come up to Bellingham and meet the NWoL team and learn more about the projects currently being completed at the local Mt. Baker and Nooksack Valley school districts. n
Washington State Council for Social Studies
Leadership Conference
Wendy Ewbank (standing), Patsy Whitefoot (Yakama), Swil Kanim, (Lummi), Chixapkaid- Michael Paul (South Puget Salish), Shana Brown (Yakama),
Fern Renville (Sisseton Wahpeton), and Michael Vendiola (Swinomish).
Denny Hurtado (Skokomish) former
Indian Education Supervisor and presenter
at the conference, and Lynn Lane (Lummi).
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Social Services is here to help!TANF
Nooksack Tribal TANF Program is always accepting new client applications. The TANF Program can service tribal members from some federally recognized tribes as long as they meet eligibility criteria. We have an office in Whatcom and Skagit county, please call our offices anytime if you have any questions about the program or to find out if your eligible to receive assistance.
Deming TANF Office: (360) 592-5176 ext. 3668Heidi Davis: TANF Program Manager, ext. 3665Rosalena Joseph:Case Manager, ext. 3666 Joal Galindo:Case Manager, ext. 3663Stewart Roberts:Employment & Training Coordinator, ext. 3662
Skagit TANF Office(360)-848-1758Sativa Robertson: TANF Case ManagerSierra Faulks: TANF Receptionist
DSHS (Financial Services Specialist) Located in Social Services two days a week
Social Services welcomes Jenny Walker, the DSHS (Financial Service Specialist) worker. Jenny is available from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Tuesdays and Fridays. She can assist clients with: completing applications and renewals; change of circumstances for Federal Centers
for Medicare and Medicaid Service Programs (classic medical); Federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP); Food Assistance Program (FAP) and cash assistance services. For more information, call (360) 592-0135 ext. 5099 or e-mail Jenny at [email protected].
G.E.D. NewsCongratulations to Ms. Savanah LaClair for passing
her Social Studies and English/Reading, Catherine Tom for passing her Social Studies and Science, and James Rabang Jr. for passing his Social Studies, English/Reading, and Science. All of them have done an exceptional job! Interested in earning yours? Give me a call at (360)592-5176, send me an email at [email protected] or stop by and see me at the Nooksack Social Services Building—Monday-Friday 8:30-5:00. I look forward to hearing from you and working together on your educational endeavors.
—Deborah E. Alexander, MEd. ABE/G.E.D. Instructor
Elders Program CommitteeThe Social Services Department/Elders Program is
looking for interested enrolled Nooksack Tribal Elders who reside in the Whatcom County area to serve on our Elders Program Committee. The committee will meet one day a month, typically the first Thursday of every month, at 3:00 pm. Interested members should contact Social Services to provide their name, address, phone number and e-mail address. All names will be submitted to Tribal Council for consideration. For more information contact Tresea Doucette at (360) 592-0135 ext. 3670 or leave a message with the receptionist. continued on next page
2015 Food Bank DistributionFood Bank is distributed the 1st Friday of each month from 12-3pm or until supplies last.
January 9thFebruary 6thMarch 6th
April 3rdMay 8thJune 5th
July 10thAugust 7th
September 11th
October 2ndNovember 6thDecember 4th
If you have any questions, please feel free to call our main office at 360-306-5099.
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Congratulations toBobbie Hillaire, Denise Jefferson & Tasha Yatchmeneff!
It is with great pride and excite-ment that I write to let you all know that three members of the Nooksack ICW team, Bobbie Hillaire, Denise Jefferson and Tasha Yatchmeneff, have been accepted into the University of Washington School of Social Work, Master’s of Social Work Program.
In addition to working tirelessly on behalf of the children of the Nooksack community, they will now have the opportunity to continue providing important services to the community while learning new skills and tools in the MSW Extended Degree Program (which allows professionals to work full-time while earning their Master’s degree).
If you’re not yet impressed, please note that the UW School of Social Work is ranked 3rd in the country.
Now that they’ve been accepted into UW, all three Nooksack ICW staff members will be applying for acceptance into the CWTAP Program which provides financial support throughout their schooling in return for their commitment to continue working for the Tribe.
Please congratulate Denise, Tasha, and Bobbie for their much deserved acceptance into the UW MSW program and their commitment to improving the services Nooksack ICW can provide!
Be well. Ken Levinson, Director of Family Services
2015 - STOWW - Commodity FoodsDistribution is always on a Tuesday from 11:00 am - 1:00 pm.
The date for June is yet to be determined.
January 13thFebruary 10thMarch 10th
April 7thMay 5th
*June TBD
July 14thAugust 11th
September 8th
October 6thNovember 3rdDecember 8th
1-800-567-6690 or 253-589-7101Benita x228 | Adrian x227 | Danny x237
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Social Services, continued from page 13
May is “Older Americans Month”Each May, the Administration for the Community
Living (ALC) celebrates Older Americans Month to recognize older Americans and to promote health and building communities across the nation. We focus on how older adults are taking charge of their health, getting engaged in their communities and making a positive impact in the lives of others. Whether you choose to host an event, publish an article, or engage others through social media, you can make a positive impact in the lives of Americans of all ages. Help older adults maintain their strength and mobility. This can be achieved by going to a yoga class, water aerobics or a dance class. The ALC Act has provided a nationwide aging services network and funding that helps older adults live with dignity in the communities of their choice for as long as possible. These services include home delivered and congregate meals, caregiver support, community-based assistance, preventative health services, and elder prevention programs.
When Older Americans Month was established in 1963, only 17 million living Americans had reached their 65th birthday. Almost a third of Older Americans lived in poverty and there were few programs to meet their needs. Interest in Older Americans and their concerns was growing. A meeting in April ,1963 between President John F. Kennedy and members of the National Council of Senior Citizens led to designating May as “Senior Citizens Month,” the prelude to “Older Americans Month.”
Historically, Older Americans Month has been a time to acknowledge the contributions of past and present and current older persons to our country, in particular those who defended our country.
This year’s theme is “Get into the Act” to focus on older adults taking charge of their health. It is always a goal of the Social Services/Elders Department to Promote Good Health for our Nooksack Elders. Please join us for a special event “Medication Awareness” at the Nooksack Elders Luncheon on May 14th with Guest Speaker, Dr. Shelly Zylstra.
If you have any questions please contact Tresea Doucette @ 360-592-0135 ex. 3670. n
Elders Luncheon is May 14thGuest Speaker, Dr. Shelly Zylstra
“Medication Awareness”** Lunch Provided | Door Prizes **
Congratulations Waylon on Taking 1st Place!
Waylon Kentner (middle in the picture), is a 7th grader at Mount Baker Junior High School. This school year, he decided to try something new and joined the wrestling team. Waylon did very well for never wrestling before. He went undefeated in his weight class (117-120 lbs.) and took first place at the county meet. In the picture, Way-lon is standing on the podium in 1st place! His Dad, Marty Kentner, and Mom, Shannon Kentner, are very proud of him for going out of his comfort zone and trying something new.
Happy 10th Birthday JJ
Love Mom, Dad, Mykah, Rhonda & Family
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Billy Frank Jr. Day Inaugural Celebration The Squaxin Island Tribe invited all Tribes to celebrate the life of
Nisqually Tribal Leader and Fish Wars activist Billy Frank Jr. at the inaugural Billy Frank Jr. Day celebration, held on Frank’s birthday, March 9, 2015, at the Little Creek Casino near Shelton, Washington. The celebration pictures were taken by Nooksack Indian Tribe’s Natural Resource Director, Gary MacWilliams, who attended the event.
At the event, Governor Jay Inslee spoke briefly, saying: “Today would have been Billy Frank Jr.’s 84th birthday, and while we miss his strong yet humble presence, his legacy is very much alive. There is no one word to describe Billy. He was a leader, a warrior, a teacher, a mentor, a champion, a father, a grandfather. He was unforgettable. Irreplaceable. On this day – and every day – we should be reminded to stop and, as Billy said, “…listen to the world that sustains us.”
Billy Frank Jr. was chairman of the Northwest Indian Fisheries Commission for more than 30 years. He was 83.
A Nisqually Tribe member, Frank, was known specifically for his grassroots campaign in defense of fishing rights on the Tribe’s Nisqually River north of Olympia in the 1960s and 1970s. Frank was arrested more than 50 times in the “Fish Wars” of that time.
In 1970, the U.S. sued the State of Washington on behalf of the Treaty Tribes, alleging the state was preventing Tribes from exercising the fishing rights guaranteed them under treaties signed with the U.S. On Feb. 12, 1974, U.S. District Court Judge George H. Boldt ruled in favor of the Treaty Tribes. An article in the treaties states “The right of taking fish at usual and accustomed grounds and stations is further secured to said Indians in common with all citizens of the Territory.” Boldt interpreted “in common with” to mean an equal share, 50 percent of the available salmon harvest.
But Boldt’s ruling, upheld by the U.S. Supreme Court, did more than affirm Indian fishing rights. It upheld treaties as being supreme over state law, as stated in the U.S. Constitution. It established Treaty Tribes as co-managers of the salmon fishery. And it spawned other actions designed to protect salmon, because — as Frank stated in the ensuing years — if there is no salmon fishery, then the treaty is violated. n
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Community Emergency Response Team Training On March 13, 14 and 15 the Northwest Tribal Emergency Management Council conducted
a CERT class for the Nooksack Tribe that was paid for with grant funding from the Washington Department of Health, and secured by the Nooksack Tribe Emergency Management Department.
Students were trained on such topics as disaster medical operations, fire suppression, and light search and rescue so that when the time comes they are able to take care of themselves and their families.
Nooksack Emergency Management wishes to thank all of the students who gave freely of their off duty hours in support of a more resilient community! Thanks also to Whatcom District One Fire Chief Mel Blankers for his generous support!
Our next CERT class will be May 1, 2 and 3, 2015. Registration is open! Contact Glenn Yorks or Mollie Ellenwood. n
Nooksack Emergency Management Class
Mollie Ellenwood April 23, 2015
10:00 AM - NoonThe basics we need to know
if disaster hits. Would you need help if it did?
Lunch will be served after.
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Congratulations! Look at them now!
In October 2010, Sheri (Point) Nickell and Jesse Madera
participated in the first Nooksack Tribe Community Emergency Response Team training.
In March 2015 Jesse Madera and Sheri (Point) Nickell passed the very difficult National Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) exam and they are now Certified EMTs!
Jesse has been a volunteer fireman for Whatcom District One Fire since shortly after taking the CERT class and is now serving the Everson/Deming area as what is believed to be the first Native American volunteer EMT in Whatcom County.
Sheri is considering where this new certification is going to take her and may pursue a postion where she can use her skills to help people in a clinic setting. Sheri continues to be an active Nooksack CERT member and appreciates the new opportunities to help the Nooksack community that her EMT certification provides. n
Jesse Madera with fellow student Bill Coleman.Sheri (Point) Nickell with fellow student Sharon Point.
Sheri (Point) Nickell with her Certificate . Jesse Madera with the kids at a Fire Safety Presentation.
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Fitness Center ScheduleElders Workout: Tuesdays – 11:00am - 12:00pmOpen Gym: Mondays, Wednesdays, & Fridays – 12:00 - 1:00pmBootcamp for Beginners: Mondays - 5:30 - 6:30pm, Wednesdays – 12:00 - 1:00pm & Fridays - 5:30 - 6:30pmCrossfit for Teens: Mondays, Thursdays, & Fridays – 3:15 - 4:15pm
The Fitness Center Has Moved!The Nooksack Indian Tribe’s fitness center has been relocated to the Tin
building in front of the old Genesis II house on Mission Road. All crossfit classes are still being held in the Community Gym. n
Bruce Miranda with weights.
Nate Smith, Heidi Davis, Alison Cline with Instructor.
Fitness Center
Lucas Revey - Youth Crossfit.
Calvin Jimmy - Youth Crossfit.
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Genesis ll Alcohol/Addiction Recovery Corner
Alcoholics Anonymous District 11 Bellingham and Whatcom County information: 360-734-1688. Help is available 24 hours a day. “Call before you drink.”
**I AM RESPONSIBLE**
When anyone, anywhere reaches out for help,
I want the hand of A.A. always to be there
And for that I am responsible.
Everson Area AA Meetings:Nooksack Group - 6605 Mission Rd. (Little red Church) Wednesdays and Thursdays at 8:00 PM
Everson Group - 102 West 1st (Nooksack Christian Fellowship Church) Fridays at 7:30 PM
This link is a listing of AA meetings in Whatcom County:www.whatcomaa.org/schedule.html
This link is to the No Reservations AA speakers meeting 1st Friday of each month at the Swinomish Gym 17311 Reservation Rd.
www.noreservationsspeakermeeting.org/schedule.html
Narcotics Anonymous Northwest Washington Area 360-647-3234 recorded message with Whatcom county meetings information. You can leave your name and number for a member of NA to return your call.
If you have any questions in regards to “Recovery” or Genesis ll Programs please feel free to call and speak to one of our Counselors.
Yours in Recovery,Genesis ll Staff n
The Nooksack Indian Tribe warmly welcomes our newest employees
Lawrence Bailey, On-Call Driver 3/10/2015
Jeremy Caplan, Mental Health Outreach Specialist 3/5/2015
Edward Doherty, IT TGA Administrator 3/10/15
Laura Point-Solomon, On-Call Driver 3/18/2015
For Earth Day, Quotable Native Wisdom About the Environment
ICTMN Staff 4/22/12 | indiancountrytodaymedianetwork.com
On April 22, 1970, the first Earth Day was celebrated in New York City; today, the event is celebrated in some 175 countries. It’s a good occasion to reflect on some profound Native sayings and proverbs:
“I don’t believe in magic. I believe in the sun and the stars, the water, the tides, the floods, the owls, the hawks flying, the river running, the wind talking. They’re measurements. They tell us how healthy things are. How healthy we are. Because we and they are the same. That’s what I believe in.” —Billy Frank, Jr.
“We are the natural nurturers of the Earth Mother. The Earth Mother needs our help, she needs our prayers. We need to educate the women of the world that prayer works.” —Agnes Baker-Pilgrim
“The frog does not drink up the pond in which he lives.”—Native American Proverb
“One does not sell the earth upon which the people walk.” —Crazy Horse
“When the earth is sick, the animals will begin to disappear. When that happens, The Warriors of the Rainbow will come to save them.”
—Chief Seattle
“We must protect the forests for our children, grandchildren and children yet to be born. We must protect the forests for those who can’t speak for themselves such as the birds, animals, fish and trees.”
—Qwatsinas (Hereditary Chief Edward Moody), Nuxalk Nation
“I was warmed by the sun, rocked by the winds and sheltered by the trees, as other Indian babes. I can go everywhere with a good feeling.”—Geronimo
“The land is sacred. These words are at the core of your being. The land is our mother, the rivers our blood. Take our land away and we die. That is, the Indian in us dies.”—Mary Brave Bird
The Great Spirit is in all things: he is in the air we breathe. The Great Spirit is our father, but the earth is our mother. She nourishes us; that which we put into the ground she returns to us.”
—Big Thunder (Bedagi) Wabanaki Algonquin
“Treat the earth well. It was not given to you by your parents—it was loaned to you by your children.” —Indian proverb
“Man’s heart, away from nature, becomes hard.” —Luther Standing Bear n
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WelcomeRobin GiddingsNIVRP has a new staff member,
Robin Giddings, Vocational Rehabil-itation Counselor (VRC). She will be working two days per week at the Nooksack Indian Tribe Social Services Department, located at 5061 Deming Road. Robin has worked within Tribal governmental agencies (in Whatcom, Skagit and Snohomish Counties) for the last 10 years.
Robin will be able to help you by evaluating your disability and helping you with choosing employment goals that best suit your abilities and interests.
You are eligible to receive services if you:
1. are an enrolled member of a federally recognized tribe;
2. have a permanent physical or mental impairment that makes it hard to find or keep employment; and
3. live in the Whatcom County service area.
Robin’s hours are Thursday and Friday 8:30 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. (except on Tribal holidays). You can reach her by calling (360) 592-5176 Ext. 1048 or by emailing [email protected].
Please join Nooksack Indian Tribe Social Services Department in welcoming Robin Giddings. n
Nooksack’s Special
Olympians went to Wenatchee
for State competition on February 28, 29
and 30thChristopher and Steven were
in the same competition bracket and they both did Wonderfully! Christopher received the Gold Medal; Steven received the Silver Medal; and Robin’s team came in fourth place.
As a special treat, the boys all got to meet the Seattle Seahawks’ mascot, Blitz, and some cheerleaders (of course, the boys loved all of them). n
Chris with Seagals
Steven and Robin with Blitz and _________________.
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Natural Resources continues its mission to protect
and recover treaty natural resources. Recent activities
and accomplishments include:
• Staff (Gary!) are participating in regular preseason
planning meetings to allocate this year’s fisheries.
• $711,475 in salmon recovery grant funding was recently
awarded to the Department to design and construct
priority chinook habitat restoration projects in the North
and South Forks of the Nooksack River. Habitat program
staff are managing engineering contracts, reviewing project
designs, applying for permits, developing contractor
bid solicitation packages, and otherwise advancing
planning for two projects planned for construction this
summer: (1) North Fork Farmhouse Reach Phase 2a (7
log jams) to restore stable chinook spawning habitat;
and (2) South Fork Downstream of Hutchinson Reach
Phase 2a (8 log jams) to restore chinook holding and
rearing habitat (deep pools with hiding cover and cool
temperatures). Finally, staff continue to coordinate with
our partners in the Nooksack River watershed to advance
implementation, monitoring, and adaptive management
of priority salmon recovery actions.
• Staff are conducting steelhead spawner surveys and
are participating on regular steelhead recovery team
meetings.
• Staff are protecting treaty resources by continuing to
review forest practices and other land uses. Staff are
also participating in a local forum to integrate salmon
recovery into flood management activities.
• Continue to monitor water quality Nooksack River basin
wide – 9 general water quality stations, 22 fecal coliform
stations in Drayton Harbor, 50 year-round and seasonal
stream temperature sites, turbidity at 5-year round
sites; suspended sediment at three bridges, suspended
sediment and turbidity at 20 other stations, streamflow
at 15 sites, fecal bacteria at outer edge of Semiahmoo Spit
and in Birch Bay. Participate in interagency workgroups
focused on water quality in the Tribe’s U and A area.
• Developed a climate change program focused on the
impacts of climate change on glacier melt, streamflows,
temperature, and fish habitat, and impacts on treaty
resources. Worked with the Habitat Program on
updating salmon habitat restoration plans taking climate
change into consideration. Gave over 10 presentations
on our climate change project to various workshops,
conferences, and workgroups, including the Northwest
Climate Science Conference and the National Adaptation
Forum, and several EPA-sponsored workshops and
conferences.
• Published a paper on our climate change project in the
Journal Climatic Change.
• Will be developing an adaptation plan focused on the
impacts of climate change on traditional ecological
knowledge and traditional foods important to the Tribe.
• Continued participation in and support of the WRIA1
watershed staff team work.
• Serviced the DOJ/water rights litigation case.
• Continued support of the Resource Protection Program
reviewing various land development proposals. n
The Nooksack Indian Tribe Natural Resource Department
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A Call for Tradition Traditionally our native peoples have hunted, fished and gathered our sustenance from the abundance of the earth.
Many of our traditions, such as prayers, songs, dances and celebrations memorialize the success in our hunts and activities. Over generations, as society has changed, and we no longer rely on our traditional ways for our daily food, this knowledge has diminished, and may vanish completely if we do not value and practice it.
The Traditional Ways Planning Committee is a collaboration of Nooksack departments and programs that together seek to use traditional food sources and activities to build our community. The Traditional Ways Planning Committee organizes hunting, gathering, processing, and cooking classes each month as a means to: sustain our culture; and to promote healthy and traditional lifestyles, leadership, growth and bonding opportunities for young ones and elders.
Traditional ways are important for all of our people, from the very young to our elders. We invite all of you to get involved in sharing the knowledge and skills that you learned from your elders with others of all ages. Together we can share the produce or our efforts and pass on the healthy simplicity, and self-sustaining resourcefulness of our traditional ways.
This March a deer was provided so that members could learn to process and butcher this dear’s meat. In turn, the group participated in a cooking class led by Barb Himes and Montaine Sorenson who demonstrated various ways to cook healthy and inexpensive meals on a budget. It was a fantastic turnout of families!
• We invite you to the Clam Bake Potluck Gathering April 9th at Birch Bay!
• You may participate in our Traditional Ways Planning Committee meetings every Thursday at 1:30 in the clinic conference room.
Departments on the committee include Cultural Resources, NIT Clinic, NIT Diabetes, Nooksack Elders, NIT Planning, SAMHSA Nooksack Way of Life, TANF Social Services, and NIHA Resident Opportunities and Self-Sufficiency (ROSS). n
27These photos were taken at the Traditional Ways Class on March 2, 2015.
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Get involved with Earth Day!Every year on April 22, over a billion people in 190
countries take action for Earth Day. From San Francisco to San Juan, Beijing to Brussels, Moscow to Marrakesh, people plant trees, clean up their communities, contact their elected officials, and more—all on behalf of the environment.
Like Earth Days of the past, Earth Day 2015 will focus on the unique environmental challenges of our time. As the world’s population migrates to cities, and as the bleak reality of climate change becomes increasingly clear, the need to create sustainable communities is more important than ever. Earth Day 2015 will seek to do just that through its global theme: Green Cities. With smart investments in sustainable technology, forward-thinking public policy, and an educated and active public, we can transform our cities and forge a sustainable future. Nothing is more powerful than the collective action of a billion people.
As the global organizer behind Earth Day, Earth Day Network creates tools and resources for you to get involved with Earth Day in your community. http://www.un.org/en/events/motherearthday/.
10 Things You Can Do This Earth Day (and Every Day)
1. Slow The FlowA faucet leaking just one drop per second wastes over 1,300 gallons per year! A leak from a hot water source wastes both water and fossil fuel, creating more greenhouse gasses. Most repairs to plumbing fixtures pay for themselves within just a year. Fix it!2. Think Green When You CleanCleaning products that contain chlorine or petroleum distillates expose your family to toxins and then end up in the ecosystem. Choose nontoxic, naturally derived cleaning products, which are proven effective but won’t cause long term damage to the Earth.
3. Choose Both SidesEvery year, pulp mills release over one trillion gallons of chlorine-tainted water as part of the paper making process. Using the other side of the paper can cut that pollution almost in half! And choose recycled paper—especially processed-chlorine-free recycled paper.4. ‘Green’ Your MachineAmericans waste over 700 million gallons of gasoline each year just because tires aren’t properly inflated. Millions more are wasted because our vehicles aren’t properly tuned up. Keep your machine running ‘Green!’ You’ll save money and reduce emissions!5. Meat Less For DinnerOnce a week, plan a meat alternative for dinner. Enjoy pasta with a marinara or Alfredo sauce, meatless chili burritos, or even grilled veggie burgers! Reducing meat consumption conserves fresh water, saves topsoil, and even reduces air pollution!6. Walk, Hike, Ride A BikeIf people in the U.S. would occasionally ride a bike for a short errand instead of driving a car, over 70 million gallons of fuel could be saved each year! And there’s the added benefit of enjoying the fresh air and exercise! For short errands, take a hike!7. Plant A Tree Every Earth Day!Over a 50-year lifetime, a tree generates $31,250 worth of oxygen, provides $62,000 worth of air pollution control, recycles $37,500 worth of water, and controls $31,250 worth of soil erosion. It also provides shade that keeps homes and cities cooler!8. Give Weeds A ‘Hand’Herbicides aren’t the only way to control weeds, and they’re certainly not the most environment-friendly way! Invest in a good pair of gloves and garden tools, and remove weeds by hand. Also, choose natural alternatives to pesticides for getting rid of pests!9. Lighten Your Energy BillThere’s a brighter way to light your home: new Compact Fluorescent Lamps (CFLs). Compared to regular bulbs, CFLs last 10 times longer, use only 1/4 the energy and pro-duce 90% less heat—yet they produce more light per watt! Brighten the future: go CFL!10. Reduce, Reuse RecycleIt’s more than just a slogan. You can start making the world a ‘greener’ place today: return hangers to the cleaners, donate clothing and computers to charities, pack lunches in reusable containers instead of bags, there are hundreds of easy things to do! It’s up to you! (Rustletheleaf.com) n
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Steven and Robin with Blitz and _______________________________
Thank you for your Service Airman Kevin Allan Ramsarran, Nooksack Tribal Member
Proudly serving in the United States Air Force, Kevin’s ambition is to complete his tour and pursue an education as a medical doctor. Right now he is working on cargo bomber airplanes while being stationed in Dyess, Texas and waiting for his orders for deployment in April. Kevin is the great grand-son of Betty Phelps, grandson of Tom and Juana Branson and son of Chris and Sativa Robertson.
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2015 Holiday CalendarThe Nooksack Tribal Council has approved the 2015 Holiday Schedule. Tribal Offices will be closed on the following days in 2015.
April 22 – Mother Earth Day • May 25 – Memorial Day • July 3 – Independence DaySeptember 4 – Tribal Council Elected • September 7 – Labor Day • September 24 – Nooksack Governance Day
October 12 – Coast Salish Day • November 11 – Veterans Day • November 26 – Thanksgiving DayNovember 27 – Day After Thanksgiving • December 25 – Christmas Day
Snee-Nee-ChumP.O. Box 157Deming, WA 98244
Administrative ContactsTribal Council Office ………………… (360) 592-5164 Enrollment Office ………………………… (360) 592-5176 x1010Tribal Council Fax ……………………………… (360) 592-4506
AdministrationAdministrative Office Main ……………………… (360) 592-5176Administrative Fax ……………………………… (360) 592-2125Human Resources (Director: Suzanne Brownrigg) … (360) 592-5176Emergency & Risk Management ………… (360) 592-HELP (4357)(Program Manager: Glenn Yorks)
Law Enforcement (Police Chief: Rory Gilliland)Police Department ……………………………… (360) 592-9065
Health Services (Director Lona Johnson)Medical Clinic …………………………………… (360) 966-2106Dental Clinic …………………………………… (360) 306-5151Medical Business Office ………………………… (360) 966-7704Genesis II Office (Manager: Rick George) ……… (360) 966-7704
Behavioral Health ………………………… (360) 966-2376
Social Services (Director: Nadeen Jimmy)Social Services Main …………………………… (360) 592-0135Elders Office …………………………………… (360) 592-0100TANF-Deming ………………………………… (360) 592-3219TANF-Skagit …………………………………… (360) 848-1758GED Office Nooksack …………………… (360) 592-0135 ext 5124GED Office Skagit ……………………………… (360) 848-1758Domestic Violence Office ……………………… (360) 592-5176DV Emergency Hotline ………………………… (360) 592-4164
Family Services (Director: Ken Levinson)Indian Child Welfare (ICW) …………………… (360) 592-5432 Child Support …………………………………… (360) 306-5090
Education (Director: Donia Edwards)Education Main Office ………………………… (360) 966-2043Headstart-Deming ……………………………… (360) 592-0141Headstart-Everson ……………………………… (360) 966-0523
Youth Program (Director: Roxanne Murphy)Office …………………………………………… (360) 966-2043
Other ServicesTribal Court ……………………………………… (360) 306-5125Tribal Court Fax ………………………………… (360) 306-5181Housing Office (Director: Katrice Romero) …… (360) 592-5163Natural Resources (Director: Gary MacWilliams) (360) 592-5176Fishing and Shellfish Fisheries Hotline ………… (360) 592-5140Cultural Resources (Director: George Swanaset, Jr.) … (360) 306-5759Tribal Veterans (Program Manager: Jovie Joven) …… (360) 592-5839Tribal Gaming ………………………………… (360) 592-5472Facilities & Maintenance (Director: Richard Edwards) …………………… (360) 592-0162Auto Shop ……………………………………… (360) 306-5756Community Building …………………………… (360) 966-9153North Intertribal Vocational Rehabilitation Program …………………… (360) 592-5176 x1048
Casinos & Market CentreNooksack River Casino ………………………… (360) 592-5472Toll free ………………………………………… (877) 935-9300Nooksack Northwood Casino …………………… (360) 734-5101Toll free ………………………………………… (877) 777-9847Nooksack Market Centre ………………………… (360) 592-5864
