Bozho nikanek
(Hello friends),
The holiday season is here, and our families will again be gathering together in celebration. December is a special time of year for a lot of reasons. For me, it marks the time of year when I can, as a general rule, slow down and take a deep breath at work from the busy summer California fire season.
Last month, I finished my article that included information on home fire safety, and then went to bed. I woke early the next morning to the news that no less than five major fires were burning in northern California. These horrific blazes were being fanned by 70 mph north winds and were racing through entire housing subdivisions and destroying everything in their path. If any of our tribal members were affected by these fires, I would like to hear from you.
I am working on spring district meetings in the Salt Lake City, Utah, area, Nevada and northern California. Please watch for the announcement in your area. It is also just over six months until the Family Reunion Festival in Shawnee, Oklahoma. It is never too early to start planning your trip. The dates are June 29 to July 1.
As another reminder, the scholarship program application period for the spring 2018 semester opened Nov. 15 and closes Feb. 15. Get your applications filed online today; don’t miss out on this valuable benefit if you are going to school.
Once again, I would like to say what an honor it is to serve you as your District 7 representative. As always give me a call, and I will be happy to work with you on any questions you may have or provide you with additional information you might need to access tribal benefits to which you are entitled.
Please also take the time to give me a call or send me an email with your contact information so that I can keep you informed of the happenings within the Nation and district.
Migwetch
(Thank you),
Mark Johnson, Wisk Mtek
(Strong as a Tree)
Representative, District 7
1565 Shaw Ave., Suite 202
Clovis, CA 93611
559-351-0078 cell
mark.johnson@potawatomi.org