Swinomish Senate

06/02/2026

Swinomish Employee Spotlight: Corporal Shannin Wachholz

Corporal Shannin Wachholz has built a strong reputation for her professionalism, dedication, and commitment to public service since joining the Swinomish Police Department in 2019.

Beginning her law enforcement career as a patrol officer, Cpl. Wachholz quickly demonstrated a solid work ethic and a deep respect for the community she serves. Her approach to policing reflects a balance of accountability, compassion, and attentiveness – qualities that are essential in today’s complex public safety landscape.

Early in her career, Wachholz attended the Federal Indian Police Academy, where she received comprehensive training focused on law enforcement within tribal communities. The academy emphasizes policing skills, cultural awareness, federal regulations, and the unique structure of tribal law enforcement. This foundation prepared her to serve effectively and respectfully within the Swinomish Indian Tribal Community.

Wachholz later attended the Washington State Equivalency Academy, earning her certification as a Washington State Police Officer. This accomplishment reflects her commitment to meeting rigorous state standards and ensuring she is fully equipped to serve in a wide range of law enforcement situations.

Through years of service, Cpl. Wachholz has continued to build trust with community members while upholding the values of the Swinomish Police Department.

Beyond the badge, Wachholz is known for her warm personality and relatable interests. A fun fact that often brings a smile to colleagues is her love of cats. She is the proud owner of five cats, a detail that highlights her caring nature outside of work.

Cpl. Wachholz remains a valued member of the Swinomish Police Department and a positive presence within the community. Her journey from patrol officer to corporal reflects hard work, perseverance, and a genuine dedication to service. Qualities that exemplify the best of modern law enforcement.

Safety Tip --> Cpl. Wachholz’s safety tip is to never leave valuables in your car and make sure your doors are locked.

For this story and more, visit the June qyuuqs News --> issuu.com/swinomish/docs/qyuuqs_news_june_2026

06/01/2026

Calling all relatives, friends, and neighbors! It’s time to honor our graduates and those who are moving up!

June 4 – Cedar Cap Ceremony, 4:30 p.m. at swәdәbš Park

June 4 – Swinomish Parade, 3 p.m. at the John K. Bob Ball Field (line up at 2:45 p.m.)

June 6 – Alumni Banquet, 6 p.m. at the Middle School Gym

June 9 – Senior Awards Night, 6 p.m.

June 10 – 8th Grade Promotion, 6:30 p.m. at the Middle School Gym

June 11 – High School Graduation, 5 p.m. at Whittaker Field

June 17 – Education Picnic, 6 p.m. at swәdәbš Park

June 22 – Susan Wilbur Early Education Center Graduation and Moving Up Ceremony, 11 a.m. at the SWEEC Playground

06/01/2026

Want to invest but don’t know where to start?

Learn with us at the Swinomish INVESTMENT CLUB

Engage tips and tricks to grow your money
No experience required
Next meeting June 3, 6-7 p.m., Social Services Building or online
Register at sitcgov.us/InvestmentClub

Questions? Call (360) 708-2976

05/31/2026

Swinomish Elders – LET’S GO SWIMMING!

Elders, you can now catch a shuttle from the Senior Center for a weekly trip to the pool. Fidalgo Pool in Anacortes is providing aquatic classes, lap swim, and open swim, free of charge for eligible Elders.

If you are age 55+ and eligible for services at Swinomish Medical, this program is for you.

Call Michelle Skidmore at Swinomish Medical for details and to sign up: (360) 466-7269.

05/30/2026

Calling all relatives, friends + neighbors – come support our graduates this JUNE 4!
Senior Parade | 3PM | John K. Bob Ball Field (line up by 2:45PM
Cedar Cap Ceremony | 4:30PM | swәdәbš Park

A record year for high school graduates, the Swinomish Cultural Department will honor 31 students with a Cedar Hat Ceremony this June 4. Please join us for this special event!

A cedar graduation cap represents our shared culture, family, and history – all of which take many hands and much time to weave. In fact, community and student family members take care to weave love, community, and respect into each hat, so each graduate knows their community, families, and ancestors are walking with them during this honorable time.

The cedar cap also represents sacred tribal sovereignty and self-determination. In 2020, House Bill 2551 allowed all students in Washington state to wear regalia and objects of cultural significance at graduation events. Ceremonies have long been an important part of Swinomish culture, and we will continue to honor our young people in their successes.

05/30/2026

The Fitness Center’s SUMMER WALKING SERIES starts June 3!

Meet us between 11:30AM-1PM at the CEDAR HAT PAVILIONS >>> EVERY WEDNESDAY in JUNE + JULY.

***Weekly incentives for all tribal members!***

05/28/2026

SENATE MEETING INVITATION
WHEN: TUESDAY, June 2, 9 a.m.

Swinomish members, you are invited to join the June 2 Senate meeting in-person at the Senate Chamber or online via Teams. You can register here: sitcgov.us/20260602_Senate

The agenda will be emailed to you with Teams details before the meeting. Registration closes Monday, June 1, at 5 p.m.

Tuesday, June 2, 2026, at 9 a.m.

05/28/2026

Electric Trucks Added to Swinomish Fleet

Swinomish was awarded a $581,657 Transmission Emission Reduction (TER) grant, designed to support community-centered projects that help reduce transportation-related emissions. Administered through Puget Sound Energy (PSE), the funds come through Clean Fuel Standard regulatory actions taken by the Washington Department of Ecology.

The Tribe was able to add seven new Ford Lightning electric trucks to their fleet through this award, aiding Swinomish government departments in their work.

The departments receiving new vehicles are:
• Social Services
• Cemetery
• Fisheries
• Public Works
• Environmental Protection
• Land Management
• Planning and Community Development

PSE employees made a special trip to Swinomish in April to celebrate the delivery of the trucks with Tribal staff.

“Seeing the Tribe take delivery of these vehicles was incredibly meaningful to all of us at PSE,” said PSE Tribal Government Affairs Manager Katherine Romero. “This moment represents so much more than just new trucks – it's a testament to the Swinomish Tribe's forward-thinking commitment to clean energy and environmental stewardship.”

For this story and more, visit the June qyuuqs News --> issuu.com/swinomish/docs/qyuuqs_news_june_2026

05/27/2026

Funeral arrangements for Claude Anthony Wilbur Jr.

Family Visitation
Thursday, May 28, 2 p.m.
Kern Funeral Home, Mt Vernon
Dinner 5 p.m.

All Denomination Prayer Services
Thursday, May 28, 6 p.m.
Swinomish Social Services Building, La Conner

Catholic Funeral Service
Friday, May 29, 10 a.m.
Swinomish Social Services Building, La Conner

Please continue to keep the families in your thoughts and prayers

05/27/2026

Funeral Arrangements for David Joseph Aleck

Funeral Service - 1910 Shaker (1 day)
Wednesday, May 27, 10 a.m.
Swinomish Social Services Building, La Conner

Final Resting Place
Indian Road Cemetery, La Conner

Please continue to keep the families in your thoughts and prayers