Greetings,
I trust that this message finds you well.
Although the calendar says gëgwidekneh (spring,) there were a few snowflakes in the air this past weekend. The temperatures are seasonable, and the neighborhoods are quickly filling up with the sound of lawn mowers. Soon enough, summer will be here.
The high school spring sports seasons are in full swing. Take the time to get out and support our youth. Don’t forget to stop by the Seneca Allegany Administration Building on May 10th or the William Seneca Building on May 23rd for the Spring 2024 Craft & Vendor Days sponsored by the Seneca Nation Clerk’s Offices.
Abandoned Homes
The Seneca Nation has been actively demolishing abandoned homes throughout the city of Salamanca. Next on the demolition list is 14-16 Seneca Street. The Nation has targeted several homes in the City for lease violations such as illegal drug activity, serious health & safety concerns, and quality of life issues like unkept homes and yards. The Nation will no longer allow residents to flagrantly violate the lease and bring down the fabric of our communities.
Aaliyah White
Aaliyah White was honored at the April 13th Council session for bravely coming to the aid of a fellow Silver Creek Elementary school student. Aaliyah, a 4th grader, sprang into action and helped a choking student in the cafeteria. To act so quickly in an emergency situation shows the characteristics of a true leader. The world needs more people like Aaliyah. Ja:göh and nya:wëh for your bravery and compassion toward a fellow student in need.
Tim Mohawk
A retirement luncheon was held in honor of Tim Mohawk on April 11th. Tim has been an employee of the Seneca Nation since the mid-1990’s. Tim started out in the Cattaraugus Department of Public Works and ended his career as a Senior Inspector in the Engineering Department. Throughout Tim’s nearly 30-year career, he has played an important role in making sure buildings on our territories have remained safe for the Seneca people. Nya:weh for your service and dedication!
World Indigenous Suicide Prevention Conference
The Seneca Nation has been chosen as the host site for the 2024 World Indigenous Suicide Prevention Conference (WISPC.) The theme of the conference is “Reclaiming Indigenous Resiliency and Hope.” The WISPC conference is being held July 23–25, at the Seneca Niagara Resort & Casino. This is the fourth gathering and the first time that the conference will be held in the United States.
Finally, with the weather warming and plant life blooming, take the time to get out and enjoy!
Respectfully,
Rickey L. Armstrong, Sr., President
