SKOKOMISH TRIBE REMOVES INVASIVE VARNISH … · Page 2 3sXeXa?L “It’s All Written Down” Visit us on the Web @

Skokomish Indian Nation

December/January Issue p3dChiX “Time of Cold”

p3dXa’Xa’ “ Time of Sacredness”

3sXeXa?L “It’s All Written Down”

The Skokomish Indian Tribe removed thousands of pounds

of varnish clams, an invasive species, from the Skokomish Estuary tidelands this summer.

A varnish clam looks similar to a manila clam but the giveaway is the peeling brown fi lm on the shell, like old furniture. The non-native clam from Japan showed up on the West Coast in the early 1990s and is found throughout Hood Canal.

“There are so many varnish clams here, we’re trying to fi gure out if we can create a bait or consumption market for them,” said Blair Paul, the tribe’s shellfi sh biologist. The tribe had not harvested them prior to this project but by this fall the tribe had found a small consumption market for them, with weekly demands up to 2,000 pounds.

The project is part of a larger eff ort to improve the shellfi sh habitat, after shellfi sh beds on the tidelands were damaged by upstream land use in the watershed.

Historic logging practices, hydropower projects, agriculture and transportation activity, plus the construction of dikes and levees, had signifi cantly altered the river’s natural processes for decades, including sediment recruitment and transport.

As a result, the tidelands were

starved of coarse sediment and were being smothered by fi ne sediment. To remedy this, 1,000 cubic yards of gravel were spread on the tidelands this summer.

To support the shellfi sh population, the tribe will spread Pacifi c oyster cultch (shells) and clam seed on the tidelands each spring for the next three years. Ultimately, about 13 acres of Manila clam habitat and 15 acres of oyster habitat will be added.

Technical assistance is being provided by the Puget Sound Restoration Fund for the gravel enrichment and shellfi sh seeding project, with funding through mitigation funds from Naval Base Kitsap.

SKOKOMISH TRIBE REMOVES INVASIVE VARNISH CLAMS, RESTORES SHELLFISH BEDS

Gravel is spread onto the Skokomish tidelands to improve shellfish habitat

Skokomish shellfi sh biologist Blair Paul, right, works with Puget Sound Restoration Fund staff , left, on the gravel plan

A handful of varnish clams from the Skokomish tidelands

Natural resources technicians and tribal members harvest varnish clams from the Skokomish tidelands to help improve the shellfish

Page 2 3sXeXa?L “It’s All Written Down” Visit us on the Web @

It’s almost that time of year again: time for the geoduck harvester CPR

classes! This year the Skokomish DNR is getting the word out early!There will be three classes this year. As usual the classes will be held in February. Each of the following dates will have no more than 12 spots available so mark your calendars for February 6th a Tuesday, February 8th a Thursday, and February 12th a Monday. Each class is on a diff erent day of the

week to try and accommodate people’s schedules as much as possible. After the new years a signup sheet will be available on the bulletin board in the main DNR building right next Elena’s offi ce. Remember it is fi rst come, fi rst served. The cost of the class is still ONLY $20.00 due at the start of class, this goes to cover that cost of supplies and processing the certifi cation.NEW LOCATION at the HEALTH

CLINIC! Class will begin 10 mins after 9:00 AM; if you have not made it by then you will not be allowed to participate. We have had a few no shows in the classes over the last two years so if you don’t make it on the signup sheet show up the morning of and see if there is a spot open.I look forward to another year of CPR! If you have any questions please contact the Skokomish DNR’s Dive Safety Offi cer (your CPR instructor),

Randy Lumper at 1-360-877-5213 #2201.

The Skokomish Department of Natural Resources would like to

remind Tribal members that you may need a permit to build or develop your property. For over two decades now the Skokomish Tribe has had its own environmental permit for on Reservation activities. The Skokomish Environmental Protection Act, also known as SKEPA, was put in place to protect the air, water, and earth from any activities that could adversely aff ect the environment. Activities requiring a SKEPA permit include, but are not limited to, the following:

(a) Preparation of a site for the construction of a building or area for purpose of human habitation, business use, or public area;(b) The construction of any structure and construction which expands the square footage of the exterior of an existing structure by more than 100 square feet; or has clearing, grading, and/or land disturbing components;(c) Conduct of a business operation;(d) Road construction or repair and right of way maintenance;(e) Construction or repair of culverts and drainage ditches;(f) Construction of any water or fl ood related project, regardless of the nature or extent of the construction activity;(g) Any project of a permanent or temporary nature which interferes with the normal public use of the surface of the waters overlying lands within the Skokomish Indian Reservation at any state of water level; and

(h) Dredging; drilling; dumping; fi lling; removal of any sand, gravel, or minerals, bulk heading, diking, riprapping, or driving of piling;(i) Timber harvesting on lands not designated as forest lands;(j) Spraying or other application of pesticides and herbicides, except for use by single family residences, using non-commercial grade products;k) Clearing, grading, or other land disturbing activities;l) Storage, application, disposal or

incineration of solid waste and/or hazardous materials as those terms are defi ned under the Resource Conservation Recovery Act (42 U.S.C. §§ 6992-6992k)

If you are not sure whether or not need a permit please contact the Environmental Planner, Randy Lumper, at 1-360-877-5213 #2201. Let’s all do our part to ensure a healthy ecosystem for generations to come.

Hello, my name is Courtnie Ghere and I am a new member of the Finfi sh Crew. I grew up in Boise Idaho, but my love for fi shing and the outdoors

drew me to Bozeman Montana for college where I earned my degree in Fish and Wildlife Management. I have spent the last two years working for the state of Idaho with their anadromous fi sh hatchery and research projects, and am excited to have the opportunity to further my career here with the Skokomish DNR. I enjoy spending my free time doing snow sports, backpacking and cooking for friends and family. Western Washington is a brand new area for me, so I look forward to exploring new places and having fun new experiences while doing my part to promote healthy anadromous fi sh populations.

New Employee in Natural Resources

CPR Classes to be Offered

SKEPA Permits

after 9:00 AM; if you have not made it by then you will not be allowed to participate. We have had a few no shows in the classes over the last two years so if you don’t make it on the signup sheet show up the morning of

I look forward to another year of CPR! If you have any questions please contact the Skokomish DNR’s Dive Safety Offi cer (your CPR instructor),

#2201.

www.skokomish.org 3sXeXa?L “It’s All Written Down” Page 3

Perfect Attendance AssembliesOn October 30th, a back to

school assembly was held at the Skokomish Community Center. Those in attendance congratulated the students who had perfect attendance for the month of September 2017. This event is a collaboration between the Education Department and the TANF department, TANF Case Workers Jamie Kenyon and Mona Allen came up with this great idea. At each assembly, we will acknowledge the students who have perfect attendance for each month of the school year. Antonio Sandifer, Education Director, and his department did a lot of planning for the first assembly. The Education

department, TANF department, HOPE program, and Family Services set

up informational tables. A panel of speakers explained the various

services available to the students and their families. Hood Canal School Superintendent, Shawn Batstone, and his staff were also in attendance. A light meal was served.

Although the turn-out was smaller than expected, the crowd was huge in their eagerness to congratulate the students. Each student received a gift card, certificate, and a drawstring backpack. The next assembly is planned for November 20th. Reminder postcards to the students and their families were mailed out

Head StartTerry Birchall, Lucas Cagey, Alana Grover, and Tearny WhiteEagle

Grades 1-4 Grades 5-8Camela Colbert Lucila Barragan-Longshore Sonni Cordova Bo BlacketerAustin Escobar Dydemus CordovaDallas Escobar Weetly CordovaAda Gouley Archie CulteeThomas Gouley Miller Jared FranklinChelsea Hermann Mini GamberMadeline Hermann Cavin JohnstonBenito Hernandez William LeClair-Hernandez Mahala LeClair-Hernandez Myeisha LittlesunArmonie McFarlane Hiladio MendozaHoward Williams III Macie NicholsLeschi Williams Emily PoulinAutumn Wily Adriana Rosales BustamanteCedar Wily Shalie Wilbur Dasan Williams

OAKLAND BAY JUNIOR HIGH SCHOOLRichard Burfiend Marvin CulteeJayden Gamber Seath’l JohnsMaximus Miller Airyanna PetersonColleen Saloum

CHOICE SHELTON HIGH SCHOOLLaShya Johns Keane AshbyJada Krise Leander BlacketerShelby Tinaza Taliah Elguero Nalynne Peterson Austin Ramsfield Mirando Singson

Congratulations to the SeptemberPerfect Attendance Club

Congratulations to the OctoberPerfect Attendance Club

Head StartXavier Allen-Johns, Lucas Cagey, Alana Grover, Carlo Kenyon-McFarlane, Blake Strong. Tearny WhiteEagle, and Kaylin Wingfield Grades 1-4 Grades 5-8Eric Andrews Valani Andrews Aya Byrd Walter AndrewsMarissa Cagey Spirit Rose ArbuckleRussell Cagey Lucy Barragan-LongshoreSky Courville Dydemus CordovaAustin Escobar Weetly CordovaDallas Escobar Archie CulteeAda Gouley James DelacruzTomisha Grover Mini GamberRiver Rae Guardipee Jessica GhrammChelsea Hermann Keslyn HarpMadeline Hermann Monique HermannMahala LeClair-Hernandez Noah Kennedy Bella Peterson Tatyana LeClair-Hernandez Ma’Sye Tinaza William LeClair-Hernandez Ryan White Eagle Cory MannHoward Williams III Hiladio MendozaLeschi Williams Adriana Rosales BustamanteAutumn Wily Ava Smith Kale Wingfield Shalie Wilbur Edward Smith Dasan Williams OAKLAND BAY JUNIOR HIGH SCHOOLRichard Burfiend Marvin CulteeOsorio Martinez Airyanna Peterson Colleen Saloum

CHOICE Hailey Brown Devin Johns Amber Wilbur

SHELTON HIGH SCHOOLMaris BordleyTaya GouleyMauricio MendozaAlecia PlantAustin RamsfieldAaron Wilbur


December’s Spotlight Student of the Month is Rebecca Cultee.

Rebecca is currently a senior at Shelton High School enrolled in a full roster of difficult courses that befits her status and aspirations for after graduation. She is discovering just how smart she really is and is busy exploring options for life after high school.Rebecca lives with her grandfather, Edwin Gosser. Although Edwin is extremely protective of Rebecca, he does his level best to give her some freedom as he chauffeurs her from place to place. Rebecca is also very fond of her grandmother, Brenda Cultee. Rebecca says her grandmother is the most selfless and loving person she’s ever known. Both grandparents have always been there for her and are stabilizing influences in her life.Christin Carey is Rebecca’s favorite teacher. She teaches Child Development, a class Rebecca took last year, and Careers in Education, a course that Rebecca is taking now. Ms. Carey is fond of Rebecca and has lots of nice things to say about her. “Rebecca is very resilient. Her artistic ability is amazing. If she cares about something, she is dedicated and very passionate about it.”Another of Rebecca’s favorites is Christie Zakem. Rebecca is in her Leadership class and that tells you something about our girl. She is already a natural leader and this course is strengthening and refining her skill set.A week before Halloween, Rebecca attended the Future Native Teachers Initiative (FNTI) Symposium at Washington State University. The FNTI was created by the Washington Education Association in partnership with regional Tribes, and Native education leaders at schools, colleges and the state superintendent’s office. Their goal is to increase the number of Native teachers in Washington schools. Ms. Carey recruited Rebecca and accompanied her and other SHS students to the symposium. Becoming a teacher is one of the options Rebecca is considering after

graduation, but she’s not totally committed to the idea just yet. She still

wants to look at other careers before making a firm decision. Earlier this year, Rebecca worked as a Summer Intern for Tom’s Program (Youth Prevention). She was a Recreation Aide, helping out with the younger kids and supervising them on their field trips. In her spare time, Rebecca likes to play video games. That’s right, she’s a gamer girl. She’s also a fan of the television series “Supernatural”.Rebecca Cultee is yet another outstanding Skokomish student. She has a bright future and a long time horizon to realize her dreams and ambitions. We wish you the very best, Rebecca. We know that you will remain a shining example to our youth as you follow the path that leads to your unique destiny. We also believe your destiny will include lasting and meaningful contributions to the Skokomish People

Alex Wilbur is Oakland Bay JR High Student of the month.

Alex has worked real hard all year to keep his grades at “A” and “ B “ and his attendance is awesome. I am so proud of his dedication and persistence in keeping his grades up. He attends the Education center every day after school for that little extra support to keep him always on top of his homework, or even ahead on his assignments. That is dedication!Alex's has a wonderful support group. His Aunt Marisha and Uncle Lyle are wonderful at making sure Alex has everything he needs to succeed. Aunt Marisha is in constant contact with me on how he is doing and what more they can do to help Alex succeed in his education goal of being the first one in the family to graduate Congratulations Alex! Sincerely your proud tutor, Paula Muir

Alex has worked real hard all year to keep his grades at “A” and “ B “ and his attendance is awesome. I am so proud of his dedication and persistence in keeping his grades up. He attends the Education center every day after school for that little extra support to keep him always on top of his homework, or even ahead on his assignments. That is dedication!Alex's has a wonderful support group. His Aunt Marisha and Uncle Lyle are wonderful at making sure Alex has everything he needs to succeed. Aunt Marisha is in constant contact with me on how he is doing and what more they can do to help Alex succeed in his education goal of being the first one in the family to graduate

Our Shelton High School Spotlight Student of the Month

Student of the month Oakland Bay Junior High School


It is coming fast, and in about eight more weeks we will be at the

mid year point for our Skokomish and Community seniors in high school. This is the time for the High School and Beyond Plan Essay final draft to be turned into the advisors. The journey to high school graduation has many twists and turns as many of us may remember from our own experiences back in our own high school days. This essay is an effort to encourage every high schooler to think very hard about their plans for after high school graduation. This essay is meant to encapsulate many of the most important aspects of the person graduating. High School seniors writing their 3-5 page essays are required to focus on their own personal journey through high school and to examine their strengths and weaknesses and the role these play in their career choice(s).

Seniors think about and research the colleges, trade schools or other post-high school training they would like to pursue. Each student’s writing must explore the requirements for their chosen field(s) of study or work. In this plan is the price of tuition, the living expense, and finally their own plan for achieving these goals are included. Some students plan on working part time and others identify scholarship sources to apply. Other students include a couple of career paths in which they are interested.

Something that is always a surprise is how much they can earn once they achieve the certification, licensing, or diploma they seek. They are required to calculate what a home or apartment might cost and the present all of these costs and potential expenditures in their essay. For many students this is a revelation and gives reason to pause and maybe even admire their parents and grandparents and all that has been done to get them this far in their lives. Students are able to present many of the ideas from their essays in their ‘Exit Presentation’ that occurs closer to springtime of their senior year.

Combine the work done to write High School and Beyond Plan Essay with the information we shared last month about the required Job Shadowing Experience and you have the picture of a young person who has done real thoughtful reflections on the future, promise, and hope that exists for them. If you know a senior ask them about their essay. You may be surprised about the thoughtful and meaningful work that has gone into these written plans for the future.

Our next installment on the path to graduation we will include some writing samples from our 2018 senior class High School and Beyond essays. Stay tuned.

Here is a quote from our Washington State Board of Education about the written plan: The High School and Beyond Plan is a state graduation requirement. Each student must have a High School and Beyond Plan (HSBP) to guide the student’s high school experience and prepare the student for postsecondary education or training and career (ESHB 2224, Chapter 31, Laws of 2017). Students start their plan in seventh or eighth grade and then continue to revise them throughout high school to accommodate changing interests or educational and career goals.

Check out the State Board of Education website listed below to answer all of your questions regarding the new rules for seniors working on a 2019 graduation date. h t t p : / / w w w . s b e . w a . g o v / f a q /highschoolbeyondplan.php

Jada Krise, a Skokomish Community member received a Cool Cat Award on Thursday, November 16, 2017. Jada was lucky to draw a $25 Dairy Queen gift certifi cate. You may wonder what did Jada do to earn the opportunity to have her name drawn? Well anytime a teacher or CHOICE staff member sees a student exemplifying CHOICE Community Agreements they can award a student a Cool Cat Award. This then entitles the student to place their award in a special box in the offi ce. Quarterly Cool Cat Awards are drawn for special prizes from this box. Jada was cited for assisting another student with their Skyward Access. Jada was patient and kind and shared her expertise and experience with Skyward to help

What’s a Cool Cat Award?

a student who was new to CHOICE. Jada is kind and respectful to all of the students and staff on a daily basis. Congratulations to Jada on her small but worthy award.

Seniors Work Hard on the High School & Beyond Plan Essay


On November 18th, and 19th Skokomish’s 12 yrs and under team competed in a memorial basketball tourney held Nisqually Wa.

Our Skok ballers played 5 games in all over the weekend winning all 5 games including the championship. The team was coached by Demus Cordova and players were Blaze Andrews, Lonzo DelaCruz, Nathaniel Byrd, Jerome Gouley- Nichols, Dydemus Cordova, Oscar Archambalt jr, and Weetly Cordova. WAY TO GO SKOK.

Durinda Gouley

Hello!! I am the new Skokomish Mentor/Tutor working at Hood Canal School. I am excited to begin working with grades K-4. I will be at Hood Canal School during the day and at the computer lab after school. I also hope to have a reading program with incentives up and running soon, so stay tuned. I look forward to getting to know more little ones because the ones that were little when we moved here in 2007 are all grown up now. See you around.

Roslynne Reed, Board Member

I want to thank those of you who supported me in representing the

Hood Canal School Board for two terms. It has been a rich experience learning the various funding sources and being involved in student curriculum to help us stay on course with our theme, “Continue the Progress.” It has been an extreme pleasure serving the community. I did not run for a third term, allowing others to step up and serve on the Board. The current election will be certifi ed on November 28 and two new members will be sworn in at the December 14 Board meeting.

There have been so many changes since I began my fi rst term in 2010. Staff changes, including a new Superintendent, and actually quite a few of the other administrative positions as well as several new teachers. Important changes have been made to the curriculum too. Math and Reading programs have been improved to meet the needs of our children.

While some of the changes are too soon to see great improvements, the groundwork is set and progress will be made. In the recent election, questions have been raised about our students’ scores and how they compare with other schools in Mason County. We are actually almost exactly in the middle. Specifi c data can be found at reportcard.ospi.k12.wa.us.

I am leaving at an exciting time in the school’s future. As a result of a major construction bond passed by the Shelton School District, the options available to our non-High school (meaning we do not have a high school in our district), we asked our citizenry (you) to tell us what direction we should take the school. Option 1 is to pay our assessed share of about $4.2 Million to Shelton School District; Option 2 is to consolidate with Shelton School District; or Option 3 is to establish our own high school. Because Pioneer School has our same situation and we share a common border, we partnered with them to explore a cooperative state-of-the art comprehensive high

school. Discussions have focused on STREAM (Science, Technology, Riparian, Engineering, Arts, and Math). How cool is that? We have an opportunity to give our children an advantage they couldn’t get without moving out of the area. We are blessed with so many environmental assets in our area. Using them to our advantage to train our kids to pursue further training or work in these fi elds would be a gift that would keep on giving.

This project is fast-tracked because of the funding issues resulting from the passage of the Shelton School bond. Locations are being explored and the issue will be on the ballot in February 2018. Please participate in any briefi ngs and review all available materials – be informed. As a taxpayer, my vote will be to Continue the Progress.

Again, thank you for the opportunity and I will help where I can to make sure all children have a full and rich educational experience.

CHAMPIONS

Hood Canal School Board Update New Employee in Education

Durinda Gouley


High School 21+ is a program being offered through a partnership between the Skokomish Education Department and South Puget Sound Community College it helps students earn a high school diploma through credits earned in high school and knowledge and skills gained through life experiences. Come to the Ma’nalt Education Center to find out more about the program. Classes are ongoing and credit evaluations can happen on Tuesday and Thursday afternoons from 12:00 to 5:00. For students under 21 GED prep is also being offered during the same time.• High school transcripts• Prior GED tests, college entrance exams• College classes• Internships and/or work experience• Certifications and licenses• Cultural classes• Life-experienceFor more information contact Shanon Millman, email [email protected], 360-561-6609 or Antonio Sandifer, email [email protected], 360-877-2460

Are you interested in getting a high school diploma? Are you 21 or over?


HOT NEWSDECEMBER/JANUARY

December is upon us. We have a lot going this next month. We started yet another native league intertribal on Wednesday nights. Age groups are 4th, 5th, and 6th grade team. And the older team is 7th, and 8th grade team. Come out and support our skok hoopers.

We will also be getting ready for a Squaxin holiday hoops tourney starting Dec 16th thru the 18th for 14 and under, and 11 and under. Our Skokomish youth prevention after school program (TOM’S) is busy with homework help and gym time. We are starting practices for the Shelton city league that starts January 6th thru February 10th. 2nd and 3rd grades, 4th and 5th grades, and 6th and 7th grade boys and girls teams from skok are all in the Shelton league representing Skokomish Nation. We continue to have Teen council on Thursday evenings at 5 p.m. at the computer lab. Teen’s please try make a meeting. Are Winter culture camp is Dec 19th thru the 21st we will be making arts and crafts and having guest speakers come in. Reminder to our youth we have tutors available after school every day of the week Monday thru Friday. Keep your grades up and work hard. SKOKOMISH STRONG. HAPPY HOLIDAYS FROM Youth prevention and Staff.


Turning Point Domestic Violence Shelter recently held a fundraising event “Power of the Purse” that focuses on bringing awareness to domestic violence

and raising money to support the cause. Chief Vukich donated a table in honor of Skokomish Public Safety Department. Many of our Skokomish staff members purchased gently used purses and scarves to help victims’ recovery at the shelter. I would like to thank Tor Parker (photographer), Patty Gouley, Rose Snelson, Toni Smith, Winter Perez, Mona Allen, Jamie Kenyon, Leah Miller, and Chief Vukich. Together we can help our community by taking action to promote safety, respect, and equality to stop domestic violence. Sincerely, Julia Simonds

The loss of a child forever changes lives. Patti D’s child, Sal, suffered

from substance misuse from his early teens. He went into treatment but funding ran out and he was forced to leave the facility. Still in need of help, they were able to get Sal into an IOP program. He went faithfully three nights every week. For three months Sal did well. Patti D was happy as she had her son back. On the night of Sla’s 90th day of sobriety, he left to attend IOP. At 3:37 AM, the police came to her home to notify her that Sal had overdosed. He was in another town. He was found in his car. Some unknown individual had been with Sal but left him without even calling 911.

Patti D. struggled. With the holidays approaching, she wondered how she would get through it. At fi rst, she just wanted to stay in bed and let the holidays pass. But soon she realized that Sal would not want this for her. The holidays, particularly Christmas Eve, are very special to her and her family. She has a daughter and grandchildren. She knew it would break Sal’s heart if she gave that special time up. She came to the realization that life must go on and memories must be created. Now, she lives each day to the fullest not only for her family but for Sal too. She vowed that Sal would forever be honored and remembered. With the help of her family, Sal is included in every one of their holidays.

Patti D found ways to overcome her grief. Here are the seven ways that helped her:

• Do what is in your heart and what makes you comfortable. Don’t worry about what others think/say.

There is no right way to celebrate after the loss of a child.

• Accept that the holidays will be different and that they will be hard.

• Talk to family and share feelings. Tell them what you do and do not want to do. Do things that are spe-cial and important to you.

• Do the best you can. Make your choices and stand by them.

• Even in good times, the grief will still be there. It will always be there. But, it is okay to take a break from grief. Laughter and joy are not disrespectful. Take pleasure in the holidays and try to turn them into something that will make you child look down and smile.

• Honor your loved one in whatever way you can. Share the love pride that is in your heart at the holiday table.

• Keep in mind the feelings of your children and family members. Try to make the holiday season as joy-ous as possible.

Remembering promotes healing. It is not grief that we want to avoid but the pain of loss. Grief is a necessary part of this process.

Patti D. has become an advocate in the fi ght against addiction and overdose. This gives her strength to move forward. She has turned her grief into a journey to help other parents and to help save lives. She does this to honor her son. She still grieves. She smiles, she laughs and she cries. And all the time, she knows Sal is looking down on her and smiling.

A new study fi nds that teens who smoke pot and drink struggle

to achieve some of the hallmarks of adult success. These include earning a college degree, holding down a full time job, making a successful living and getting married.This study tracked the life course of 1,165 young adults from across the country. They all came from families with a history of alcoholism.The study found that:• Kids did better when regular use

was pushed back to adolescence

• Kids from families with a history of substance abuse followed pat-terns similar to those of other high school aged kids

• With time, as they got older, those kids who used or became depen-dent on alcohol and pot deviated from those kids who stayed clean

• Even teens who only used alcohol

and pot without developing a habit achieved less in life

• Male users had a harder time fi nd-ing a full time job and earning good pay

• Female users were less likely to get a college degree

Cannabis is NOT a harmless product. When combined with alcohol it can be problematic for people’s lives. Because this study tracked kids from age 12 through 34. It substance use predates problems in achieving success later in life.Parents need to start talking to their children at an early age – 6 or 7. Even though at this age they don’t have the experience, parents can set the stage with then reoccurring theme. As children reach the danger years, 11-12 for girls and 12-14 for boys, it will be easier to have the “talk”.

From the Cop ShopThe Empty Chair at Our

Holiday Table

From the Cop ShopAlcohol and Pot; a Road to Nowhere

Power of the Purse


Helpful Tips for your Home

~Housing News~

Rez Photo of the Month Answer

The young ladies in this photo are none other than:Rachael Vigil and Celeste Vigil! Thanks Lila for the great pic!

The young ladies in this photo are none other than:


General Council Meeting Agenda Saturday, December 2, 2017 at 10:00 AM

Skokomish Community Center

AGENDA ITEMS:

1. Meeting Called to Order 2. Opening Prayer 3. Approval of the Agenda 4. Approval of the Minutes for 9/9/17 5. Chief Executive Officer’s Report 6. SITE Report 7. Tribal Member Comments 8. Closing Prayer 9. Meeting Adjourned

For more information contact: Tom Strong, General Council President

Email: [email protected] Cell: (360) 490-0799

Program Reports will be available to Tribal Members on Nov. 27th Contact Darlyn Warren at the Tribal Center x2036 Contact Darlyn Warren at the Tribal Center x2036

[email protected] Contact Darlyn Warren at the Tribal Center x2036 Contact Darlyn Warren at the Tribal Center x2036

[email protected]

NOVEMBER 8, 2017Resolution No. 2017-148: A Resolution Initiating Civil Exclusion Proceedings Against Nathan D. Harp, A Non-Member Indian.Resolution No. 2017-149: A Resolution To Appoint Frances Longshore To The Skokomish Tribal Gaming Commission

Resolution No. 2017-150: A Resolution To Appoint Denese LaClair To The Skokomish Tribal Gaming Commission

NOVEMBER 11, 2017Resolution No. 2017-151: A Resolution To Approve SLD Contract No. 2017-K-00261 For Recruitment Services With Reserve Nation, LLC

SKOKOMISH TRIBAL COUNCILResolutions Approved

Letters of Interest RequestedTo fi ll (1) Vacant Position

On Skokomish Tribe’s

Hunting CommitteeThe Skokomish Tribal Council is currently seeking Letters of Interest from Enrolled Skokomish Tribal Members who are 18 years old and wish to be considered for appointment to the Skokomish Tribe’s Hunting Committee.

This is to fi ll 1 vacant position for a term of 3 years.

The Hunting Committee acts in an advisory capacity to the Director of Natural Resources and the Tribal Council and shall carry out any related duties assigned to it by the Tribal Council or by Ordinance.

Please address your letters to Joseph Pavel, Natural Resources Director at the Skokomish Natural Resources Building. State why you feel you should be appointed and why you feel you’d be the best candidate.

All eligible applicants will be interviewed by the Hunting Committee who will make recommendations to the Tribal Council. The Tribal Council will appoint the Hunting Committee member by resolution.

The deadline to submit letters of interest is:

Friday January 5, 2018 at 3:00pm

A public meeting concerning the development of the Skokomish Tribal Mitigation Plan needs your assistance.

WHEN: December 2, 2017 at 10:00 A.M.LOCATION: Skokomish Community Center at the General Council Meeting

TITLE NAME: Skokomish Tribal Mitigation PlanPURPOSE:The purpose is to fi nalize the Mitigation Plan and implement this for the safety of the community.

Contact for more information:Jackie Smith, 360-426-4232. Email: [email protected]

Public Notice Skokomish Tribal Mitigation Plan


Clinic Dates to RememberDecember 7th

Audiology 11:30-4:30pmDr Behre 8-12pm

December 8thDr Grimes

December 13thSue Barwick, Talking CircleSarah Faulkerson, Dietician

December 20thWIC

December 21st Dr. Behre 8-12pm

December 25th&26Clinic closed for Christmas

January 1st&2ndClinic Closed

January 10thSue Barwick, Talking CircleSarah Fulkerson, Dietician

January 12thDr. Grimes

January 15thClinic Closed

January 17thWIC

January 18th&30thDr. Behre 8-12pm

January 26thClinic Closed


A broken tooth, sudden swelling, or increasing pain in your

mouth are all good reasons to request an emergency appointment at the Skokomish Dental Clinic. When you call the clinic to request an emergency appointment we can usually place you on our schedule that same day. Even if the schedule is full, if you come to the clinic, we can almost always see you if you are willing to wait.

What to expect An emergency appointment usually lasts about 20 to 30 minutes. First, we’ll review your medical history and ask some detailed questions about what brought you in to see us. We may take an x-ray image and complete other tests to identify the source of the problem. We’ll then present information to

help you make a treatment decision. If appropriate, we’ll provide a prescription for medication, and/or place a temporary filling. Finally, an appointment will be made at the dental clinic or with a dental specialist to continue your care.The best time to make a dental appointment is when nothing hurts! Please call the clinic to schedule an exam and cleaning. For Dental Appointments call: 360-426-5755 or stop by the Skokomish Health Center.

Dental Emergency


By Kirk Larson Social Security Washington Public Affairs Specialist

Many people have a difficult time understanding the difference between Medicare and Medicaid. Both programs begin with the letter “M.” They’re both health insurance programs run by the government. People often ask questions about what Medicare and Medicaid are, what services they cover, and who administers the programs.

Let’s start with Medicare. Medicare is the national healthcare program for those aged 65 or older and the disabled. You pay for some Medicare expenses by paying the Medicare tax while you work. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services is the agency in charge of both Medicare and Medicaid, but you sign up for Medicare A (Hospital) and Medicare B (Medical) through Social Security.

You can apply for Medicare online from the convenience of your home at the link on our website: www.socialsecur i ty.gov/medicare/ . If you’re already receiving Social

Security retirement benefits when you reach age 65 or are in the 25th month of receiving disability checks, we will enroll you automatically.

Medicare Part C (Medicare Advantage) and Part D (Prescription Drug) plans are available for purchase in the insurance marketplace. Social Security administers a program called Extra Help to help people with low income and low resources pay for premiums, co-pays, and co-insurance costs for Part D plans. Each year, The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services publishes Medicare and You available online at their website at www.medicare.gov/medicare-and-you/medicare-and-you.html. This publication is a user’s manual for Medicare.

Each state runs their own Medicaid program under guidance from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. Medicaid offers care for the most vulnerable among us. While it does not require paying taxes while

IS IT MEDICARE OR MEDICAID?By Kirk Larson Social Security Washington Public Affairs Specialist

Social Security touches the lives of nearly every American. We’ve been with you from day one, when your parents applied for your Social Security number, and we are with you from your first job through your retirement party and beyond.

For more than 80 years, Social Security has stayed true to its mission of providing financial protection for the American people and has served as one of the most successful anti-poverty programs in our nation’s history. We encourage everyone to take steps toward their financial security. Regardless of your age or place in life, now is the right time to start planning for a financially secure future for you and your family.

Everyone can benefit from our first step: Get to know your Social Security. You can start your journey through all things Social Security by visiting www.socialsecurity.gov and navigating through our menu.

Along the way, you’ll see how your Social Security number opens many important doors throughout life, from making it easier to apply for student aid and open your first bank account to starting your first job and buying your first house. You’ll also discover how your contributions to the Social Security system through FICA payroll taxes can make you eligible for important future benefits when you reach retirement age or if you become severely injured or ill.

You’ll find how Social Security helps your family in the form of survivor benefits and how our Supplemental Security Income program assists disabled children and our most vulnerable adults. We also encourage you to visit our website and set up your own my Social Security account today so you can begin taking steps toward financial security.

To learn more about your retirement benefits, you can read Your Retirement Benefit: How It’s Figured and When to Start Receiving Retirement Benefits at www.socialsecurity.gov/pubs/.

GET TO KNOW YOUR SOCIAL SECURITY

Medicaid continued Next Page.......


Hi, my name is J e n n i f e r S h a f e r , and I am a Licensed M e n t a l H e a l t h Counselor Associate. I began w o r k i n g at the

Skokomish Behavioral Health this October to provide counseling support to children, and teens. Originally from the east coast, I grew up on salt water, but that of the Atlantic Ocean. My hometown, Scituate, MA, is a small community, and though much has changed, some fishing and mossing boats still leave the harbor.I came to the shores of the Salish Sea in 1989 to attend to the Evergreen State College (TESC). Originally, I wanted to pursue Environmental Science, but I eventually focused on Women’s and Anti-oppression Studies. During my years at TESC, I worked at the campus Women’s Center, was a DJ at KAOS Community Radio, and was an

advocate for Survivors of Sexual and Domestic Violence at Safeplace.I worked in social work for a few years and then chose a career in Massage Therapy, practicing for close to 20 years. I enjoyed therapeutic bodywork, but felt I had more communication and people skills to offer so I made way to the Masters in Counseling Program at St. Martin’s University in Lacey. I graduated in the spring of 2016 and since then, I have worked with families through Community Youth Services in Olympia, worked with elders providing geriatric therapy with an agency called Senior Connections and still have a small private practice for teens, individual adults, and couples.In my personal life, I am a mom to two fabulous children, a 14-year old daughter and a 10-year old son, and we live in Olympia. When I have free time, I enjoy dancing, making and experiencing music, and hiking and/or backpacking. I am deeply honored for the opportunity to serve the Skokomish Nation. I look forward to bringing the best of my abilities, attention, and heart to your community. Thank you.

working, it does have guidelines about how much income and resources you can have to qualify. Medicaid provides coverage for older people, people with disabilities, and some families with children. Each state has its own eligibility rules and decides which services to cover. The names of the Medicaid program may vary from state to state. You can read about each state’s Medicaid program at www.medicaid.gov/medicaid/by-state/by-state.html. You can find each state’s Medicaid contact information at www.medicaid.gov/about-us/contact-us/contact-state-page.html.

Medicare and Medicaid are two of the major insurance programs that provide healthcare to the American public. Understanding each program, as well as how the two programs differ, can help you and those you care about find the right healthcare program.

Medicare continued from page 14

New Employee at HOPE


Skokomish Domestic Violence Program continues networking

and support for our local Shelton domestic violence program, Turning Pointe. We had Skokomish employees from Tuwaduq Family Services, Law Enforcement, Tribal court and Tanf Programs attend Turning Pointe‘s annual Power of the Purse event in November. We also continue to attend groups once a month at Turning Pointe. Skokomish Self Defense Class was held at our new community center November 7th and 8th. Maneuvers were learned for self-defense as well as provided anti-bullying education form Blaise Training LLC. Participants appeared to enjoy and gain applicable knowledge from the two day class. Thank you to all

that participated. Blaise training provides professional instruction for those seeking basic life or individual safety education. Blaise instructors are certified under the American Safety and health Institute (ASHI) Evergreen Safety Council and RAD

(Rape Aggression Defense). For more information on Blaise visit www.blaisetraining.com. Healing Circle activities continue once a month at Tuwaduq Family Services. There was a full class signed up for November’s Beading

Class scheduled for November 17th

and 18th. There will be no Healing Circle activities scheduled for December as we will leave ourselves available to help with Skokomish’s annual Christmas Party by baking cookies and such. For January we are planning another essential oil blend for Energy/Uplift Spray on January 10th. Please look for announcements and flyers for a second class in January as well. To sign up for all Healing Circle activates please call or come into Tuwaduq Family Services and Patty, Tor or Donna will be happy to sign you up. For more information on our program and or our activities please call or come by Tuwaduq Family Services and see Patty or Tor (360) 426-7788.

The Chehalis/Skokomish Vocational Rehabilitation

Program has a component that is not usually understood nor utilized to its’ full extent.As you probably know, Vocational Rehabilitation helps adults with disabilities fi nd and secure stable employment. The purpose is to provide the necessary tools to reach the goal as established by the person. Services may include counseling and guidance, training, trial work experience, assessment, assistive technology or job related services such as completing applications, writing resumes, conducting job search and gaining job skills.The transition program works with school students who have a physical, or mental disability that causes barriers to success. The program can start working with the student at the age of 14. The goal is to prepare for and fi nd employment. Each student will have their own goal that prepares them for employment after graduating high school or moving on to higher education and training. After the student graduates they can move into adult VR programs and continue

towards their goal. During transition the VR program can partner with the school in providing the services needed to succeed. The student must have their parent or guardian agree to the transition program until they reach 18 years of age.The tribal VR program would be glad to meet with the student and parent to establish need and providing assistance. The goal is to help students leave school with a job and make a seamless transition to adulthood. Come in to the VR offi ce or call to ask questions or set up an appointment. Transition Services is another resource to help our youth succeed. Call 360 426-7788 and ask for Carol Cordova or Rosetta LaClair.

Transition and Vocational Rehabilitation

Class scheduled for November 17and 18Circle activities scheduled for December as we will leave ourselves available to help with Skokomish’s annual Christmas Party by baking cookies and such. For January we are planning another essential oil blend for Energy/Uplift Spray on January 10and flyers for a second class in January as well. To sign up for all Healing Circle activates please Participants learned self defense from Blaise Training

Domestic Violence News


Skokomish Healthy Families Presents:

Positive Indian Parenting Class Schedule

1/4/17 Traditional Parenting

1/11/17 Lessons of the Story Teller

1/18/17 Lessons of the Cradleboard

1/25/17 Harmony in Child Rearing

2/1/17 Traditional Behavior Management

2/8/17 Lessons of Mother Nature

2/15/17 Praise in Traditional Parenting

2/22/17 Choices in Parenting

Classes will be held at the Skokomish Community Center From 5:00-7:00 pm

For more information or to sign up please contact Mariah Williams Healthy Families Home Visitor @ 360-426-7788

Tuwaduq Family Services has been hosting a Winning at

Parenting Seminar. The parenting classes are a six week series that started on October 26, 2017 and will continue until the six weeks are up to be scheduled around the holiday schedule. Topics of the classes include Fairytale Families, Children’s Development, Family Communication, Anger in the Home, Setting limits with Children, Managing Family Stress. The classes have been instructed by Family Education & Support Services program staff member Sheryl Jackson coming from Olympia. We have been having the classes every Thursday from 5:30 to 8:00 p.m. and childcare has been provided with a light dinner to get the evening started. Parents will receive a certifi cate of completion for this class. If you are interested stop by and join in on the discussion. We have also had a staff member attend the Motherhood/Fatherhood is Sacred training that was off ered at Little Creek hosted by the Healthy Families Program. The three day training was conducted by NAFFA (Native American Fatherhood & Families Association). The Facilitator, Michael Duncan was from Sacramento California. The mission statement that NAFFA teaches is to strengthen Native Families by responsibly involving fathers in the lives of their children, families & communities and partnering with mothers to provide happy, safe families. Having fathers’ or father fi gures in the lives of our children is so important. A question that was ask when attending the class that made us all think is “How do want to be remembered when you’re gone”? What will our children say? How will your family remember you?Being role models in our children’s lives is so important. “What children hear and see is what they become”. This came from the

NAFFA facilitator manual that we used. We would like to try and get together a group of interested men that would be willing to start a men’s group that could possibly mentor some of the young fathers’ or boys that could use father fi gures in their lives. This training was so strong with its teaching, we really need to try and help our families if possible. If you are interested please stop by Family Services and talk with Rosetta LaClair to see if it is something that we could get started to help families with this important role that our dads, grandfathers, uncles, brothers and sons mean to us when growing up.Family Service staff will be busy during the month of December baking cookies, cookies, cookies for the Christmas party. It is always so fun to make homemade cookies and share with the community. We will also be working with Annette Clevenger from Shelton DCFS to help provide gifts from those who have turned in the holiday wish list. We have been taking names to turn in since October 2017 before Halloween to prepare for Christmas. This is a really good program to help families in need during the holiday season. We also want to remind you that the food voucher program is still continuing. One voucher every three months to enrolled tribal members that meet income eligibility. Stop by the front desk at family services and Donna will be able to assist you. We are also requesting gently used coats and blankets for the winter time for the free clothing distribution in the lobby of family services. Now is a cold time of the year and we do have families that could use any type of warm clothing to keep them warm and it is so much appreciated. Family Service staff would like to wish a safe, happy holiday season and a new beginning of a New Year 2018.

Happy Holidays from TFS


1st

Clinton PharrisKiote Sparr

2nd

Andrew ArcaTom Gouley, Jr.

3rd

Bryce JohnsBerry Peterson

4th

Kelsey BowcuttNikki Lewis

Chase Burfiend

5th

Stephanie Hernandez

Patrick JohnsJames Roush

Frank Washington

6th

Tyler AndrewsJosh HermanGreg Twiddy

8th

Marlon MountToni Smith

Jennie StrongMarriya BrownLucas Cagey

9th

Jason CookSara Johns

10th

Darrel Veliz

11th

Marty Peterson

12th

Kyle AndrewsShera Cousins

13th

Roman Green

14th

Jon EdwardsBradley Johns

Ho-Wan-Ut Old Peter

Henrietta MontejoMonty CatabayRon Twiddy Sr.

15th

William AllenGlenn JohnsRed Hawk LaClair, Jr.

16th

Dave HerreraTanner Strong-

LaClair

17th

Robert Haga

18th

Frank RoushGeorgie Johns

19th

Derek AllenJamie Kenyon

Lila VigilRachael Pavel

20th

Shannon Edwards

Kristine McCann

21st

Brother Williams

22nd

Dan CulteeGlen Gobert

23rd

Nick Wilbur IIIVera Smith

25th

Christina MannWinter StrongGregg Pavel

26th

John LaClairDonald Monahan

27th

Halis Smith

28th

David StrongEli Peterson

29th Tom Strong

30th

Lawrence Kenyon Jr.

Bo BlacketerOliva GroverBeth Burfiend

31st

Ian BowcuttElmer OlneyWilliam Sparr

1st

Karen DillardAmber Wilbur

2nd

Terry McAfee

3rd

Kimberley WeberRosetta LaClairAnnette Smith

4th

Ralph PulsiferRaeanna Auld

7th

Nathaniel Byrd

8th

Jackie AllenTisheina MillerSteven Plant

Ben Tinaza, Jr.

9th

Augusta Blacketer

10th

Victor AndrewsNathan Hermann

Niah Gamber

11th

Jason LongshoreKaylain

Mendoza-Lopez

12th

Kasey BrownBrandon

CarringtonCorrene BaileytSi’tula Grover

13th

Rita AndrewsPatty GouleyFred Miller

Kendall ArcherClaudia Limburg

15th

Myranda Andrews

16th

Tina KnausEarl Wilbur

17th

Victoria PavelRosanne Snelson

Jerome Wilbur

19th

Michael MillerJewels Fenton

20th

Roy KenyonGeorge Miller

21st

Albert P. GouleyKevin PrestRylan Wilbur

22nd

Aaron Lewis Jr.

23rd

Stormy GouleyShawn Green

24th

Jim Byrd, Jr.Jason WilburJulia Ghramm

25th

Staci MillerElaine CulteeJacob Pulsifer

26th

Nola Halverson

28th

Jean Smith Jackson

Adalee Wilbur

29th

Sissy Delecruz

30th

Mary Veliz

31st

Lily Sparr

Tribal Members with Birthdays in December Tribal Members with Birthdays in January

HAPPY BIRTHDAY SHANNY! HOPE YOUR DAY IS ALL YOU WANT & MORE. LOVE YOU-

MYRANDA & X.

HAPPY 21ST BIRTHDAY TYLER MITCHELL! WE LOVE YOU

BUNCHES!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY UNK. HOPE YOU HAVE A GREAT DAY. WE

LOVE YOU. -X & MYRANDATO THE BEST SISTA A GUY

COULD HAVE!HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

Happy Birthday to my girls! You guys are literally the best!

I love you two! I hope your guy's day is all you want and more! ❤

Love always Cass


Wake Services were held on:7:00 PM Tuesday, November 21, 2017

Skokomish Indian Assembly of God Church

Funeral Services were held on:11:00 AM Wednesday, November 22, 2017

Skokomish Indian Assembly of God Church

OfficiantPastor James Lawson

Graveside ServiceSkokomish-Y-Cemetery

Dinner followedSkokomish Community Center

In Loving Memory of Cory Bush Born On: February 26, 1988

Walked on: November 17, 2017

A Quiet Prayer

A loving nature,A heart of gold,

The very bestThis world could hold.

Never selfish, always kind,These are the memories

You left behindA silent thoughtA quiet prayer,

For a special personin God’s care.

Merry Christmas and a Safe and Happy New Year to all of you.

I feel so blessed to be part of this beautiful community. I have never lived anywhere but Skokomish ever, but I do feel like this is such a groovy place to be, because of the kindness and generosity of people at SKOK. Thank you for loving each other and taking care of each other. Thank you for reaching out to those who are in need, and being quick to help and consider the needs of our most vulnerable, our children and elderly.

I have been blessed in many ways by our people here, but I would especially like to thank Alf Smith Sr., Alfi e Smith Jr, Halis Smith, and Jose Mendoza for offering help to me in a time of need. I love you boys so so much. I pray the creator blesses you over and over again!

Thank you to Christopher Tinaza for your generosity- that honors your family. Christopher continues to bring me salmon each year with a smile and good open heart. Thank you. I pray your family is blessed and

your belly is always full. (If you get hungry, come on over) I love you and am blessed to know you.

Thank you Pat and Johnny for always having up lifting words for your people. You are inspirations to us.

Thanks John and Colleen for showing us how to honor marriage and thank you for your kindness. John, I love that smile. Colleen, thank you for your gentle kindness.

Georgie Johns, Mother-thank you for showing us how to love and protect others. You are my HERO. You are amazing top to bottom. You gave me such a glorious life, and you are such an inspiration to me. You’re #1 in kindness, joy, beauty, generosity, love, creativity, and you inspire others to do better, be better, and give more.

There are so many others. God Bless Skokomish

Heart, Mary Johns Williams

DEAR SKOKOMISH COMMUNITY

Non – Pro� t OrganizationUS Postage Paid

Hoodsport, WA Permit No. 11

Skokomish Indian Tribe80 N Tribal Center RoadSKOK, WA 98584

The Sounder3sXeXa?l “It’s All Written Down”

North 80 Tribal Center RoadSkokomish Nation, WA 98584

Phone: (360) 426-4232 ext 2053Fax: (360) 877-5943

E-Mail: [email protected] Warren, Editor

Letters to the Editor are published at the discretion of the Editor, as space permits. No letter which contains defamatory

or malicious statements will be published. Any letter which contains questionable material will be sent to our legal offi ce

for review. All letters must contain the writer’s signature, address and telephone number. Letters not signed will NOT be published. The Editor reserves the right to edit a letter for

content, clarity and length.Views and opinions expressed in Letters to the Editor are

those of the writer of the letter. They are not endorsed by the Sounder, Tribal Administration, Tribal Council or the Skokomish Indian Nation as a whole. The deadline for the sounder is the

third Thursday of every month.

RETURN SERVICE REQUESTED

Rez Photo of the Month

Can you name the young ladies in this great old photo? Please turn to page 10 for the answer! Good luck!

Fill the empty squares with numbers 1 to 9 so that each row across, each row down, and each 3x3 square contains all the numbers from 1 to 9. Good Luck!

Rez Sudoku Puzzle of the Month

Can you name the young ladies in this great old photo?

Documents

SKOKOMISH TRIBE REMOVES INVASIVE VARNISH … · Page 2 3sXeXa?L “It’s All Written Down” Visit us on the Web @