Heyhey Nya:wëh Sgë:nö’,
I hope everyone in our community is doing well.
I want to start this message by recognizing Councillor Tina Abrams, who was recently selected by New York State Senator George Borrello as the “New York State Woman of Distinction” honoree for the 57th Senate District. The award was created to honor women whose achievements, leadership, and dedication have enriched the quality of life in their communities and across New York.
Tina’s selection reflects her leadership and passionate service to our Nation and the greater community. In addition to her decades of service to the Seneca Nation as an elected member of Council and on many community committees and initiatives, Tina has held roles on the Cattaraugus County Planning Board since 2002, and on the Niagara Falls Memorial Medical Center Board of Directors since 2021. Senator Borrello knows well the importance of the Seneca Nation to the entire region, and I thank him for recognizing Tina in this way.
Tina will be honored alongside all of the Women of Distinction honorees from across New York at a special ceremony in Albany on May 5. Ja:göh, Tina for your well-deserved recognition, and nya:wëh for tireless advocacy on behalf of our people.
Over the past several weeks and months, we have been paying close attention to many of the political discussions and initiatives taking place in Washington, D.C. and their potential impacts on Native Nations and our people. One important discussion concerns potential impacts to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP benefits. Many people depend on these benefits to help feed their families.
While the Trump Administration has been targeting cuts to the SNAP program, it is important to remember that there are certain exemptions for Native people. If you currently receive or are eligible to receive SNAP benefits, important information on eligibility and procedures for applying for benefits is available in the Clerk’s Office. Please make sure that you are informed and protected in preserving your eligibility for these important benefits.
In addition to SNAP benefits, we are closely monitoring other proposals, debates and discussions, and any initiatives that could impact Indian Country, as federal officials plan for the Fiscal Year 2027 budget.
Here at home, the organizers of the annual Indigenous Fashion Show at Seneca Niagara Resort & Casino have issued a call for Seneca designer and model applications for this year’s show. All interested Seneca candidates must submit an application by next Thursday, April 30. The 4th Annual Indigenous Fashion Show will take place on Saturday, November 21 at Seneca Niagara Resort & Casino. More information is available at SenecaNiagaraCasino.com.
Finally, Spring is definitely in the air, which means that it is time for our Spring Clean-up initiatives. Spring Clean-up will take place in Allegany and Steamburg from Monday, April 27 – Friday, May 1 from 7 a.m. – 3 p.m. each day. Drop-off locations are behind the DPW building in Allegany or behind the Steamburg Community Center. This service is provided for enrolled Seneca Nation members only, and no contractor waste or construction debris will be accepted. Elders and members of our community with disabilities who need to schedule a pick-up can call the DPW at 716-945-1790, ext. 3150. Let’s all do our part to keep our community beautiful!
Let’s hope we all enjoy plenty of Spring sunshine and warm weather in the days ahead.
Until next time,
J.C.
