qyuuqs News March 2026

editor’s NOTE

Welcome to the Spring Issue!

I am honored to share that 2026 is the 60th anniversary of the qyuuqs News! We will be featuring articles throughout the year that will commemorate the anniversary of our Tribal news. We look forward to sharing our features with you!

The building filled very quickly during the 2026 General Council as many new Provisional Members were sworn in as Swinomish Tribal members. It’s an exciting time to be Swinomish! See the article on PAGE 10.

Voted in on March 3, the 2026 Swinomish Executive Committee is Chairman Steve Edwards, Vice Chair Brian Porter, Treasurer Jeremy Wilbur, and Secretary Rodney John.

On February 12, community members joined the didgʷálič Transitional Housing Program for the ribbon-cutting ceremony and tour of the Tribe’s renovated transitional housing complex. See the article on PAGE 20.

Timeless tunes filled the gym as the elders hosted a Senior Prom followed by a Teenage Beats intertribal youth dance! Everyone was dressed to impress, see the article on PAGE 32!

Lastly, GO SEAHAWKS!!! The elders got creative with Seahawks t-shirt prints, and all the Swinomish 12s gathered for a group photo and raised the 12th Man flag! See the elders article on PAGE 26, and the Swinomish 12th Man flag being raised on PAGE 34. We featured a Blast From the Past on PAGE 27.

We hope you enjoy reading the Spring Issue!

Caroline Ammons goliahlitza

facebook.com/SwinomishTribalCommunity/

TRIBAL SENATE

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

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Brian Porter, Vice Chairman (360) 840-4186 | bporter@swinomish.nsn.us

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Fred Cayou (360) 708-2401 | fcayou@swinomish.nsn.us

The official news publication of the Swinomish Indian Tribal Community

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

QYUUQS MAILING ADDRESS

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Phone (360) 466.7258

*SUBMISSIONS

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

Submission deadline: 10th day of the month

QYUUQS NEWS

Caroline Ammons, Editor qyuuqs@swinomish.nsn.us

SWINOMISH COMMUNICATIONS

Heather Mills, Communications Manager

Sarah Kellogg, Content Journalist

Katie Bassford, Staff Photographer

Jordan Ekdahl, Graphic Designer

LaVonne Long, Social Media Specialist communications@swinomish.nsn.us

This issue is available online at swinomish-nsn.gov/who-we-are/page/ qyuuqs-news

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@SwinomishSenate

When submitting information, stories, and/or photos, please be aware everything published in the print version of qyuuqs News is also published on the Internet and is available to the world. Please consider carefully whether your submissions contain anything you feel may not be suitable or appropriate for the Internet. By submitting your information, stories, and/or photos to qyuuqs News, you agree to publishing your submission in both the print and online versions of qyuuqs News. qyuuqs News is a publication of the Swinomish Indian Tribal Community produced by Swinomish Communications.

INTRODUCING THE 2025 SWINOMISH COMMUNITY HEALTH ASSESSMENT

SWINOMISH PUBLIC HEALTH

Good health is more than medical care. It includes having access to healthy food, safe and affordable housing, reliable transportation, and steady work. It also includes everyday habits like getting enough sleep, staying active, managing stress, and feeling connected to others. Being healthy also means having strong social connections, good mental health, and staying active.

With your help, we recently completed the 2025 Swinomish Community Health Assessment (CHA). The CHA is a tool to help us all better understand the health and well-being of the Swinomish Community: what is going well, what our challenges are, and how we can work together to support living long and healthy lives.

A copy of the 2025 CHA report was mailed to all Swinomish households in February. This report shares information about health issues affecting our community, such as chronic illnesses and access to healthcare. It also looks at other factors that affect health, including housing, nutrition, job opportunities, and the cost of living.

As we analyzed information from the community survey, focus group discussions, and expert interviews, several themes became clear:

♦ Swinomish community members value and respect their connections with one another.

♦ The lack of available housing restricts many from returning to live in the community.

♦ We have an opportunity to increase disease prevention activities, including cancer screening rates and adult vaccinations, to lower the risk of chronic disease.

♦ We are fortunate to have safe and enjoyable places to spend time outdoors, and it’s up to all of us to help take care of them.

♦ We want our community to be healthy, strong, and thriving.

The 2025 Swinomish Community Health Assessment is a first step toward improving community health. What we have learned will help us shape health priorities and programs that align with the shared values of the

Swinomish, as well as the 10 essential public health services. We hope it sparks meaningful conversations and inspires action that honors our past, supports our present, and protects our future.

This year, we will begin work to address the top priority areas identified by the community and the Senate by developing a Community Health Improvement Plan. Community members will be actively engaged throughout the process, and regular updates will be shared to keep everyone informed about the important work underway at Swinomish.

If you would like to receive a copy of the report, please email SwinomishPublicHealth@swinomish.nsn.us

2026 GENERAL ELECTION RESULTS

FEBRUARY 15, 2026

Senate Seat #3

Brian Porter - 216

Senate Seat #4

Greg Edwards - 181

Kevin Paul - 80

Senate Seat #5

Tandy Wilbur - 159

Lena Joe - 109

RECENT SWINOMISH TRIBAL CODE AMENDMENTS

BRIANA PORTER, OFFICE OF TRIBAL ATTORNEY

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

Title 17, Chapter 11 – Trust Improvement Use and Occupancy Tax

At the December 2025 Senate meeting, the Senate made revisions to the Tribe’s Trust Improvement Use and Occupancy Code. The amendments update STC 17-11.120 Exemptions, specifically Eligibility Criteria for Senior, Disabled Veteran, or Disabled Taxpayer Exemption. The Tax Committee recommended the amendments which the Senate enacted on December 17, 2025.

Title 3, Chapter 5 – Exclusion

At the January 2026 Senate meeting, the Senate made revisions to the Tribe’s Exclusion Code. The amendment allows the Swinomish Tribal Court to issue an emergency, temporary exclusion order to remove a non-member where there is probable cause that the non-member poses an immediate and serious danger or threat to the life, health, property, the economic health or security, or the wellbeing of the Tribe, the community, its members, or other persons; or that delay would result in irreparable damage or harm to the Tribe, the community, its members, other person, or property. The Law and Order Committee recommended the amendments which the Senate enacted on January 6, 2026.

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

MARCH 17

Community Update Meeting: Seattle City Light

Federal Licensing Agreement, 6-7 p.m. Senate Chamber

MARCH 18

Education Dinner K-5th Grade, 5:30 p.m. Boys & Girls Club

MARCH 24

Narcan (naloxone) Training, 12 p.m. Social Services

MARCH 25

Tribal Fireworks Stand Owners

Fireworks Committee Meeting 11 a.m. Senate Chamber

Community Dinner, 6 p.m. Boys & Girls Club

MARCH 28

Small Business Networking Event, 5-7 p.m. Social Services

MARCH 30

Sign Ups Begin - Spring Fitness Challenge

Swearing in Provisional Members

On a cold, beautiful winter morning on January 21, 15 Swinomish descendants were sworn in at an overflowing Senate meeting. What a timely celebration of new members so close to Treaty Day! The Tribe is exercising its inherent Treaty right with an updated enrollment code. This progressive and exciting update allows descendants who were previously not eligible to enroll by provisional membership.

“This is a long time coming. I’m so glad the Tribe made a way for this to happen.” - Nancy Wilbur

Myrtle Rivas’ niece, LeAndra Smith, and nephew were among the 15; they never thought this day would come. Myrtle said, “They are beyond excited to be Swinomish.” In fact, they will be relinquishing their enrollment in another Tribe so that they can come home to their Bailey family. LeAndra said her two siblings and three children are currently working on their paperwork to also be enrolled.

David Nyugen, assistant enrollment officer, called the names and Chairman Edwards swore in the new provisional members with the oath that each new member will preserve the constitution and bylaws of the Swinomish Tribal Community and pledge to actively participate and work for the betterment of the Swinomish people. Seeing this group, including children, saying their name and raising their hands to swear their oath to Swinomish was moving.

The group was large enough that they swore them in two smaller groups! Afterwards, it was exciting to see four generations taking a photo together in the Senate chambers. You could feel the love and joy in the room. Later during the meeting, another 50 provisional members were voted in. They have one year to schedule their oath ceremony.

After the swearing-in ceremony, Senator Aurelia Bailey said, “I am honored to welcome you all home. This is a historic moment that you have the opportunity to be an enrolled member of your Tribe. You have a place to belong. You are home.”

Chairman Edwards swears in the first 15 provisional members following the November enrollment code changes.

GENERAL COUNCIL

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 15

Provisional Members being sworn in by Chairman

Provisionals members and their families were given the opportunity to address the General Council for the first time as a Swinomish Tribal member

CELEBRATING BILLY FRANK JR. DAY, MARCH 9

For many issues of qyuuqs News, the article “Being Frank” featured Billy Frank Jr. and his continued fight for tribal fishing rights and environmental stewardship. Billy Frank Jr. played a key role in the Fish Wars of the 1960s and 1970s, which resulted in the Boldt Decision and the formation of the Northwest Indian Fisheries Commission.

Billy Frank Jr. Day is observed on his birthday, March 9. Let’s continue to do the hard work of protecting treaty rights, salmon, and natural resources!

Billy Frank Jr. passed in May 2014. You can read his “Being Frank” message from the March/April 2014 qyuuqs News here isu.pub/fObcgWk . In that article, he speaks about the 40th anniversary of the Boldt Decision and his continued fight for treaty rights.

To learn more, watch the Northwest Treaty Tribes video, “Honoring Billy Frank Jr.” >>> https://youtu.be/A_FI88TC_QM?si=iC1YK6v7pqtz3CLm

PHARMACY GRAND OPENING –

PROVIDING A BETTER SERVICE TO OUR COMMUNITY

February 9, 2026 – The Swinomish Pharmacy Grand Opening was marked by a festive atmosphere filled with balloon arches, a large banner, gifts, and refreshments. Tribal Vice Chair Brian Porter welcomed guests and prayer warriors, including Wendi Martin from the Shaker Church, Brother Doug York from the church on the hill, and Beverly Peters from St. Paul’s Catholic church. Beverly Peters said, “We bless this pharmacy, the workers, and the good medicine in their hearts.”

Brian then called up Health Services director, Katrice Rodriguez, to introduce our Swinomish Pharmacy staff: Michael Lawrence (clinical pharmacist), Meekyung Joo (pharmacist), and Kimberly Hosmer-Lund (pharmacy assistant). They were each blanketed with maroon and yellow swәdәbš blankets.

Following the opening prayers, Chairman Steve Edwards and other senators in attendance said a few words. Steve expressed thanks that we were able to “provide a better service to our community; a better service for all.”

Senator Rodney John said, “To be able to bring this (Swinomish Pharmacy) home to our elders gives peace of mind and speaks volumes to the dedication to serve our people.”

Senator Fred Cayou said, “From a BIA facility down south to how far we’ve come in three to four generations –we’re truly thankful. Today is a blessed, wonderful day.”

Before the Canoe Family sang a blessing song, Senator and Cultural Director Aurelia Bailey said, “We won’t be put in a hard place, to have no access, ever again.”

My Journey to the Most Meaningful Place

SARAH CHAGNON

My name is Sarah Chagnon, and I am a Swinomish Tribal Community member.

If there’s one thing I want people to know, it’s that there is no “right” timeline for life. My path into healthcare and education has been anything but traditional. I did things backwards, took the harder road more than once, and raised my children while working and going to school. It wasn’t easy, but looking back, I wouldn’t change a thing. Every hard moment shaped who I am today. My children, now 5, 10, and 15, have walked beside me through every challenge, sacrifice, and milestone.

I always knew I wanted to work in healthcare, but I didn’t know what that would look like until a routine cleaning at Swinomish Dental changed my life. Dr. Dailey took the time during that appointment to see my potential and introduced me to dental therapy. I had no idea what dental therapy even was at the time, and I didn’t realize that my own Tribe was making history by changing how dentistry was delivered.

That one conversation opened doors I never knew existed. I applied to the Alaska Dental Therapy Education Program – and I was accepted! In just five months, my life changed completely. We packed up our family home in Bellingham and, with our two children, boarded a fiveday ferry bound to Alaska. It was terrifying, exciting, and the best leap of faith I’ve ever taken.

My first year of school was in Anchorage. Soon after, I moved to the remote village of Bethel and provided care in area communities, seeing firsthand what access to care – and the lack of – it really looks like. I thought I was just gaining skills and enjoying the adventure. However, looking back now, I realize I was learning something much deeper – the power of showing up, building trust, and serving people exactly where they are.

I have since returned home, and somehow seven years have flown by. I’ve been working for my own community at Swinomish Dental as a dental therapist, practicing at my full scope. I often tell my patients that we work in one of the best clinics in the world. Almost every operatory looks out over the Swinomish Channel, with views of Mount Baker and architecture inspired by our traditional cedar hats. While we work, we see eagles overhead and seals in the water. We share our building with the Swinomish Senior Center, where elders are served breakfast and lunch each day. On Wednesdays, we’re especially lucky to have the opportunity to share fresh grilled salmon with them. In this space, while I help others heal, I’ve found myself healing too.

The relationships I’ve built with patients are what ground me. One story I carry with me is about a little girl who was once terrified of the clinic. I would see her on our weekly visits to our Tribal preschool where we brush and floss the children’s teeth. Over time, she slowly learned to trust me. Five years later, she now walks into the clinic smiling and calmly lets us provide care. To this day, she hugs me in public and proudly says, “That’s my dentist!” even though I am a dental therapist.

I also think about the mom who once told me, “The reason my child likes coming to the clinic is you. Whatever you’re doing at the preschool is working.” Or the patient who said, “I used to be afraid to come to the dentist until I started coming here. You guys actually care.” Those moments stay with me. They remind me why I chose this path.

Dental therapy opened doors for me both academically and professionally. I’ve worked in healthcare for nearly 20 years in many different roles, slowly working my way up and always prioritizing education when I could. Along the way, I’ve met incredible people I look up to and hope to continue learning from. I earned a master’s degree in health administration last year and, on a leap of faith, I decided to apply to dental school. I honestly did not believe I would get in, but I found out this December I was accepted – and I’m still in shock!

The day I found out, I felt everything at once – excitement, fear, pride, and doubt. My dreams were coming true, but I questioned myself. Am I making the right decision? Am I being selfish? Is it too late?

That night, I sat down with my kids at dinner and asked them how they truly felt about me going back to school and graduating around age 40. Without hesitation, they told me I needed to do this. My family is excited and proud to see me become the first doctor in our family.

My children are my motivation. I want them to see what it looks like to keep going even when things are hard, to chase a dream even when it feels scary, and to believe in themselves no matter how long the journey takes. In a world that often feels heavy, I believe we need more connection, more honest conversations, and more reminders that we are not alone.

Being a dental therapist has changed my life, and it will always be part of who I am. Becoming a dentist doesn’t mean I am leaving that behind. It means standing even stronger for my profession and my community. I am deeply grateful for every opportunity I’ve been given and for all the support that has carried me this far.

"If you’re reading this and questioning your path, your timing, or whether it’s too late, I hope my story reminds you that it’s not. Growth isn’t linear. Dreams don’t expire. And sometimes the hardest road leads to the most meaningful place." - Sarah Chagnon

Please submit your story idea, articles, photgraphs, announcements, and celebrations to: qyuuqs@swinomish.nsn.us

Your New Between Two Worlds Indigenous Science Teacher

SCOTTIE MILLER, DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION

Between Two Worlds (BTW), a Swinomish Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) program, began when I was in high school, roughly eight years ago. I participated then and now I’m back in the program –only this time I am preparing my La Conner Learning Community teaching block as its newest Indigenous science teacher. I started this position in spring 2025 and have enjoyed every minute of it.

BTW helps students bridge Indigenous knowledge and Western science. The name acknowledges that Indigenous people live between two worlds: one rooted in traditional knowledge and another that practices in a modern world.

I earned state certification to teach Swinomish Indigenous science in schools, which Swinomish is the first known Tribe in the state empowered to certify teachers for this purpose. As part of the Department of Environmental Protection, I’ve been able to work on various projects involving ecology and culturally significant plants and practices.

The teaching units I’m planning include Swinomish departmental focus areas and cultural practices such as shellfish, climate change, archaeology, ethnobotany (traditional plant knowledge), wildlife, salmon, and Skagit-area hydrogeology.

As time goes on, I hope to connect the community with the DEP and make science accessible to all! I am planning some lessons for the future – for the community and elders, science days, nature walks, and hopefully a Swinomish STEM night or science fair!

As a new Indigenous science teacher, I may be able to help you with science activities, prepare a lesson, or connect you with the DEP and our amazing staff. If you would like to connect with me, or anyone else in the DEP, please email DEP@swinomish.nsn.us

March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month

SWINOMISH PUBLIC HEALTH

Colorectal cancer is one of the most common cancers in men and women, and is the second leading cause of death for Native Americans. There are usually no symptoms until it’s too late.

The good news is that there are steps you can take to lower your risk of colorectal cancer and catch it early, which is when it’s most treatable. Regular screenings, knowing your family history, and living a healthy lifestyle all play a role.

Regular screenings can detect polyps in the colon earlier – before they turn into cancer – which saves lives.

‣ The recommended age to begin screening for colorectal cancer is 45.

‣ A colonoscopy is the most common screening method. These generally are done every 10 years.

‣ Another option is a fecal immunochemical test or FIT. This test happens once a year and can be done from home.

Know your family history. Colorectal cancer runs in families. People with a family history of colorectal cancer should talk to their healthcare provider about when to begin screening.

Lower your risk. Take care of your body by eating nourishing foods and getting plenty of activity to maintain a healthy weight. Limit alcohol and don’t smoke.

Now is a perfect time to make sure that you are doing all you can to prevent colorectal cancer. Talk to your health care provider to schedule your next screening, and learn more about ways to lower your risk. Talk to your loved ones about the importance of early detection and encourage them to get screened too. It could help save a life!

Swinomish EDUCATION DINNER

It's time to honor the hard work of our K–5th grade students!

March 18, 5:30pm Boys & Girls Club

Climate Change Adaptation Strategies for Shellfish (CCASS) – Strategy Four

LINDY HUNTER, SWINOMISH FISHERIES

Two years ago, your Fisheries Department published the “Swinomish Climate Change Adaptation Strategies for Shellfish,” and a summary article about its broad scope and ambitious goals was shared in the May 2024 qyuuqs News. In follow up editions, we unpacked the first, second, and third strategies of the plan, looking into what it means for Swinomish to preserve intact ecosystems, reduce non-climate stressors, and restore and protect landscape diversity and function. For this issue, we explore the final CCASS strategy and ask ourselves how we can help to enhance native species and ecosystem biodiversity, and why those things even matter.

Diversity is often referred to as the “spice of life,” and in marine ecosystems this has definitely proven to be true. Ask any clam digger or tide pooler and they will agree –nearshore habitats with lots of different kinds of critters are very cool to explore!

As it turns out, diverse ecosystems are also more stable, better at cycling nutrients, more productive, fare better against extremes in temperatures, suffer less from disease, and resist invasion from non-native species far better than areas with less biodiversity.

As the effects of climate change continue throwing curveballs into marine systems, focusing in on a few key species that have a huge impact on other species will be our best bet for providing a refuge for the whole community. Olympia oysters, many types of kelp, and eelgrass build the foundational structures that support, shelter, and feed countless others within their habitat.

Continuing to survey, monitor, and in some cases restore or remove key species can provide an outsized benefit for the whole community. Keeping an eye out for troublesome species (European green crab molt hunts) and participating in community events (caring for the Swinomish Clam Garden or feasting on native shellfish) are a few ways that Tribal members can continue stewardship practices and directly contribute to the success of the fourth strategy.

EUROPEAN GREEN CRAB

European green crabs are bad news! Mostly because they eat baby Dungeness crab as well as clams, oysters, and shellfish. They also destroy shoreline habitats that many species rely on.

What can you do to help?

Tribal fishers and beach walkers, keep an eye out for this invasive nuisance. If you think you’ve seen a green crab, try to catch it, take a photo, and contact Swinomish Fisheries at (360) 499-4719. You can use this visual resource to correctly identify a green crab: sitcgov.us/GreenCrab.

FAMILY EDUCATION and SUPPORT GROUP

For tribal members with loved ones affected by substance use disorder

Join us every fourth Thursday of the month 5:30PM | Swinomish Social Services Building

Because substance use affects the whole family

March 9 –11

Swinomish Dental Clinic

* Protect Your Child’s Smile with Dental Sealants

Questions? (360) 466-3900

Sealants are thin, protective coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of back teeth, sealing out food and bacteria that cause cavities. And they work –sealants reduce the risk of cavities on permanent molars by up to 80%.

All American Indian/Alaska Native La Conner School District students can participate with a signed permission slip.

TRANSITIONAL HOUSING RIBBON CUTTING AND BLESSING

The didgʷálič Wellness Center recently celebrated the opening of their new transitional housing with a ribbon cutting and blessing.

Many prayer warriors were on hand to bless the apartments, including Pastor Doug York, who shared the project is, “A hope and a future. This place breathes a hope and a future. Every time we drive by it, it speaks a hope and a future. For those families that move in, it’s a hope and a future.”

The apartments will be a place of healing for several Swinomish members and their families, who began moving in the following week. The onsite support house eventually will provide counseling, group sessions, case management, and cultural programming to all Tribal members, whether they live in the apartment complex or not.

Swinomish Tribal Member Spotlight

Lorna Dan, Qual-so-leetza #2

Growing up in a household with alcohol addiction and domestic violence, Lorna struggled with her own addiction for many years. Alcohol and marijuana use led to prescription pain pills and cocaine. After the death of her father, she began using heroin and crystal meth. Lorna says, “I know I wasted a lot of time using substances and not living life.”

After serving time in jail in May 2017, Lorna knew it was time to get clean. After finishing a wonderful treatment program, Lorna successfully completed Swinomish Wellness Court. Nine months into recovery, she began working with the Swinomish Wellness Program as a resident assistant in transitional living. What felt impossible became a job she loved. Lorna learned that helping others in recovery also helped her.

Today, Lorna works with the didgʷálič Transitional Housing Program and is working towards becoming a licensed certified peer counselor. She has not had a relapse and continues to take steps forward. Serving others keeps her grounded.

Lorna says, “I love doing outreach, and to give hope to others. Today I’m part of the Swinomish Healing to Wellness Court, and what once felt like punishment now feels like purpose. It doesn’t feel like work, but more like a blessing.”

On May 18, Lorna will celebrate nine years sober. Recovery gave her life and her family back. Recovery gave her purpose and freedom. “I wouldn’t be where I am today if I didn’t have the support of the Swinomish Wellness Program, Swinomish Wellness Court, didgʷálič, Transitional Living, 12-step fellowships, and the love of our Swinomish Community and my friends and family.”

New Narcan Vending Machine Empowers Our Community

To Take a Compassionate Step Forward in the Opioid Crisis

A new naloxone (Narcan) vending machine is now available under the carport outside Swinomish Medical –offering FREE Narcan kits, along with wellness, hygiene, and wound care kits to support our community’s health.

This vending machine features an interactive touchscreen that includes an optional, anonymous survey about gender identity, age, and Tribal affiliation. Your answers help the Tribe better understand community needs and identify areas where additional support and resources may be needed. However, survey participation is completely voluntary.

Narcan saves lives.

Funded by the For Our Lives grant provided by the Washington State Health Care Authority (HCA), this vending machine empowers our community to take an active and compassionate step forward in opioid overdose prevention and response.

You are not alone.

If you or someone you love is struggling with substance use disorder, support is only a phone call away. Please call any of the following numbers with questions, for guidance, and to connect with the resources available to you:

‣S winomish Behavioral Health: (360) 466-7375

‣didgʷálič Wellness Center (360) 588-2800

‣S winomish Wellness Program: (360) 466-1024

Crisis numbers for immediate support:

‣Skagit County Crisis Line: 1-800-584-3578

‣National Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741

National Crisis Lifeline: Call 988, press “4” to speak to a Native counselor

For a life-threatening emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest hospital.

SENIOR NIGHT AT LA CONNER HIGH SCHOOL

February 3 – It was a packed house for La Conner High School’s Senior Night at the Landy James Activity Court. High school senior basketball players, cheerleaders, Associated Student Body (ASB) officers, and Knowledge Bowl team members were honored for their motivation and achievements.

And if you see one of our Swinomish seniors who was recognized, please make sure to give them a big, proud congratulations – they’ve earned it!

‣ Chaz

‣ Brent

‣ Shaniquah

‣ Katarina

‣ Lorena

‣ Armena

‣Dela

“I am Swinomish, I will graduate!”

SEAHAWK T-SHIRT PRINTS AT THE SENIOR CENTER

Power Your Day with a Variety of Foods

MICHELLE SKIDMORE, SWINOMISH NUTRITIONIST

March is National Nutrition Month, and everyone is invited to learn about making informed food choices and developing healthful eating and physical activity habits.

‣ Choose healthy foods from all food groups: meat, dairy, vegetables, fruits, and grains.

‣ Alternate your food choices for a variety of nutrients.

‣ Avoid fad diets that promote unnecessary restrictions and unbalanced nutrition intakes.

‣ Learn cooking and meal preparation skills that work with the food and kitchen resources available.

Look for community resources such as the Tribal commodity program, SNAP, WIC, and food banks when needed.

‣ Plan ahead to avoid mealtime stress by making a weekly menu and grocery list to be prepared.

‣ Meet with a nutritionist as a source of accurate nutrition information and to assist you with your or your family’s unique nutritional needs.

Swinomish Nutritionist Michelle Skidmore is available for individual and family services and can be reached by calling Swinomish Medical at (360) 466-3167.

SHINGLES AWARENESS

ATTENTION: AFTER-HOURS HOUSING & UTILITY EMERGENCIES

Adults aged 50+ are encouraged to get the shingles vaccine. Getting this vaccine protects you, your family, infants, and pregnant women. The shingles vaccine is over 90% effective in adults 50+.

For a shingles vaccine, call Swinomish Medical at (360) 466-3167, or just come in - walk-ins welcome.

Shingles is a viral infection that causes a painful, blistering rash and can lead to serious complications. Anyone who has had chickenpox can develop shingles, and the risk increases as you get older. To learn more, visit: http://www.cdc./gov/shingles/vaccines/index.html

EDUCATION DINNER

For 6th-12th Grade

HS+/GED Recognition

Carrie Sams-Gustafson has earned her high school diploma through the Bellingham Technical College High School Plus program. She was recognized at the Swinomish Education Dinner in February.

Congratulations to Carrie!

Boys & Girls Club: Youth of the Month

TAYSHA JAMES SHERMAN

Kashawna Joe

Kashawna Joe is our January Youth of The Month. Kashawna is in the 6th grade and her favorite subject is Social Studies. She loves basketball and is often practicing in her free time. Her favorite food is sushi and she enjoys a good fruit snack. Kashawna’s favorite show is Zoe101 and she loves the color pink. Batman is her superhero of choice and Red pandas are her favorite animal. After high school Kashawna wants to attend college and become a hairstylist. Kashawna has been selected for Youth of the Month for her positive attitude, and willingness to help others.

Jaxson Williams

Jaxson Williams is our February Youth of The Month. He is 7yrs old and in the 1st grade. He loves the color blue and his favorite subject in school is Recess. Jaxson likes watching Ninja Turtles and playing football in his free time. He enjoys snacking on Doritos and sipping on a fresh Fanta. When Jaxson grows up he wants to go to college and then become a Cop. When asked who he looks up to he said his brother Bradley. Jaxson was chosen as our February YOTM for his willingness to help others, positive attitude and striving to be his best self every day!

Daniel Staples

Daniel Staples is our March Youth of the month. Dan is in 7th grade and loves movies. In his free time Dan likes to look at weather reports and the end credits to his favorite movies. When grabbing a snack he will usually grab goldfish or pepperoni pizza. Dan has some awesome dance moves and loves music. Dan is our youth of the month for his contagious positive attitude and his ability to make everyone smile.

SENIOR PROM + TEENAGE BEATS

FEBRUARY 13, 2026

ELDERS: SEAHAWKS FLAG RAISING

FEBRUARY 6, 2026

Beware! Scams Targeting Seniors

The Swinomish Senior Center recently welcomed Tammy Mason, a personal banker from the La Conner branch of WaFD Bank, for a presentation about the increasing number of scams targeting seniors.

According to the FBI, seniors lose over $3 billion every year to scams. Scammers target seniors because they are perceived to have access to retirement funds and savings, can be inexperienced with technology, and may be isolated and more susceptible to deceit.

With multiple local stories used as examples, and several Swinomish elders sharing their personal experiences with scammers, Tammy highlighted a variety of fraudulent tactics people should watch out for in today’s world, including:

‣ Requests for money through wire transfers or gift cards. Scammers often insist on hard-to-trace payment methods like bank wires, prepaid debit cards, or gift cards.

‣ Impersonation scams. Scammers may pretend to be a loved one, romantic interest, or representative from a legitimate organization such as the IRS, Medicare, Norton Antivirus, Publishers Clearing House, or Western Union. They may request personal information or demand payment, using pressure and fear tactics for manipulation.

‣ “Lucky day” scams. These schemes promise checks, bank deposits, lottery winnings, or other prizes but “require” fees or personal information before they can supposedly be redeemed.

The session was concluded with this advice: avoid answering suspicious calls; delete questionable emails and text messages; change passwords every 90 days; and monitor bank accounts for unusual activity regularly.

In the wake of AI, scams are getting more sophisticated and harder to detect. Stay vigilant – be extremely cautious of urgent demands, requests for unusual payments, and offers that seem too good to be true. Never provide sensitive information such as passwords, social security numbers, and account numbers, and do not click suspicious links in texts or emails.

Feeling scammed? Please call the Swinomish Police Department at (360) 466-7237 to report the incident.

Elders came together at the Swinomish Senior Center for a dialogue about scams targeting the senior population. Tammy, a personal banker from WaFD Bank in La Conner, led the conversation.

learn techniques about identifying fraudulent requests from scammers.

ORAL HEALTH FOR LIFE

Individuals with or without teeth can benefit from oral care. Cavities and gum disease both lead to poor oral and overall health. Believe it or not, cavities and gum disease can be spread by kissing, sharing drinks, and utensils.

The healthier your smile is, the healthier your loved ones are too!

A CAVITY IS WHEN ACID CREATES A HOLE IN YOUR TOOTH.

A CAVITY CAN LEAD TO PAIN AND DISCOMFORT.

IF FOUND EARLY ENOUGH, THE HOLE CAN BE REPAIRED WITH A FILLING OR WITH MEDICINE.

GUM DISEASE IS THE BREAKDOWN OF THE SUPPORT SYSTEM FOR THE TOOTH.

GUM DISEASE LEADS TO SWOLLEN AND BLEEDING GUMS AS WELL AS BONE AND TOOTH LOSS.

REGULAR DENTAL CLEANINGS HELP KEEP GUM DISEASE AWAY.

AND SOMETIMES THE BEST WAY TO ORAL HEALTH IS TO REMOVE UNHEALTHY TEETH.

Elder Afternoons

We're keeping our Thursday afternoons open for our beloved elders! Come in for your x-rays, exams, and cleanings.

Call now for an appointment: (360) 466-3900 (press 1)

Subsidized

First-come,

11406 Moorage Way

La Conner, WA 98257

qyuuqs@swinomish.nsn.us

@qyuuqsNews