• Wednesday, December 11th from 6pm to 8pm at the Seneca Allegany Resort & Casino Event Center
• Thursday, December 12th from 6pm to 8pm at the Seneca Fire Cattaraugus Hall

Let’s learn as one mind.

Community Group Discussions: Community group breakout discussions with Executives.

• Wednesday, December 18th from 6pm to 8pm at the Seneca Allegany Resort & Casino Meeting Rooms
• Thursday, December 19th from 6pm to 8pm at the Seneca Fire Cattaraugus Hall

Let’s discuss as one mind.

Community Found Solutions: Community narrows down solutions for the betterment of the Nation.

• Wednesday, January 8th from 6pm to 8pm at the Seneca Allegany Resort & Casino Event Center
• Thursday, January 9th from 6pm to 8pm at the Seneca Fire Cattaraugus Hall

Let’s decide as one mind.

Transportation will be made available from Erie, PA to Allegany and from Buffalo, NY to the Cattaraugus.

Please review updated Gaming Documents at:  https://sni.org/about-our-government/gaming-compact/

The post Community Compact Meetings appeared first on SNI Official Newsletter.

The post The Inside Scoop from SGC appeared first on SNI Official Newsletter.

See flyers below for details:

• 2024 Holiday Market in the CCC Concourse – Tuesdays & Thursdays in December from 5-8pm
• 5th Annual Buffalo Creek Thunder Toy Drive at Polish Cadets, Buffalo – December 7th from 6-10pm
• Elders Holiday Snowfall Soiree at Seneca Allegany Resort & Casino – December 10th from 11am-3pm
• Corn Husk Trees Class w/Bernadette Scott at the Sully – December 10th at 6pm
• Send Letters to Santa at Allegany Library – Drop in the Santa Mailbox
• Christmas Party at the ACC – December 12th at 5pm
• ECLC Holiday Bazaar – December 14th from 10am-4pm
• Crafts for Gifts event at Allegany Library – December 14th from 10am-Noon
• Meet Santa Claus at Allegany Library – December 16th from 5:30-6:30pm
• Paint Night w/Sandy Warrior at the Sully – December 16th from 6-8pm
• Talking & Healing Circle at Catt. CVS Office – December 17th at 6pm
• Indian Cookies & Donuts Class at the Sully – December 17th at 6pm
• Jingle & Mingle Christmas Party at Buffalo Creek Office – December 20th at 6pm
• New Years Eve Masquerade Ball at Highbanks Campground – December 31st from 7:30pm-Midnight

The post Upcoming Holiday Events & Activities appeared first on SNI Official Newsletter.

Photos courtesy of the Seneca Media & Communications Center, SNI Newsletter, and the Onöhsagwë: de’ Cultural Center.

Thank you to everyone that came out this past Wednesday to the inaugural Harvest Luncheon.

The event was a collaboration with the Ohi:yo’ Men’s and Women’s Ceremonial, Deadiwënöhsnye’s Gëjohgwa’ – Seneca Immersion Program, and the Onöhsagwë: de’ Cultural Center. The Ceremonial group prepared a community soup, and the Immersion program cooked squash, moose, deer, and mush over the fire.

In addition, Andrea Cooke showed everyone the nixtamalization process for white corn, Billy Abrams taught deer processing, and Moe Watt taught how to make corn wheels.

There were visitors from the S.A.L.C., Salamanca City Central School District’s Warrior Academy, Ellicottville’s Big Picture Program, Falconer Schools, and many others.

The post Harvest Luncheon at OCC appeared first on SNI Official Newsletter.

On Wednesday, November 20, colleagues gathered at the Seneca Allegany Administration Building Grand Hall to celebrate the retirement of Mark Powless, who has over 31 years of dedicated service to the Seneca Nation.

Mark retired from the Seneca Nation Environmental Protection Department after 18 years. In his time there, Mark has done great things for the Seneca Nation and its people, including establishing a good working relationship with the federal government, countless meetings with the EPA Region 2, and leading as the manager of The Brownfield Program, protecting our people’s land for future generations.

Congratulations on your retirement, and Nya:wëh for all your efforts during your employment!

The post Mark Powless Retirement appeared first on SNI Official Newsletter.

The Seneca Nation Onöhsagwë: de’ Cultural Center (SNOCC) – Announces the 2025 Ohi:yo’ Art Market

Applications are now open to all Indigenous artists to apply for the juried, 2025 Ohi:yo’ Art Market! Building off the success of the inaugural Ohi:yo’ Art Market in May of 2024, we are excited to continue this event which will once again be held at the Seneca Allegany Resort and Casino’s Event Center. In partnership with Visitor Economy Management Office, the SNOCC invites artists to apply in any of the following categories:

• Basketry
• Beadwork/Quillwork
• Cultural Items
• Drawings
• Innovative Arts
• Jewelry
• Paintings
• Photography (Black and White)
• Photography (Color)
• Pottery
• Sculpture
• Weaving/Textiles

Application deadline is March 1, 2025, at 11:59 pm EST. The market will take place on Saturday, May 3, 2025. Accepted artists will automatically be eligible to participate in the art competition on Friday, May 2, 2025. Notifications of acceptance will be sent to artists on March 10, 2025. Click the QR code above for the application. (Application link HERE also) *You must click the payment link on the application to pay the required $25 application fee.

For questions or more information email: info@senecamuseum.org.

The post 2025 Ohi:yo’ Art Market appeared first on SNI Official Newsletter.

Greetings, my fellow Senecas. I hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving! I’m so thankful and excited to be your president and I look forward to representing the Seneca Nation to the best of my ability.

I’d like to introduce my office staff. Our Allegany Executive Assistant to the President is Bethany Johnson. In the Cattaraugus Office, the Executive Assistant to the President is John Adlai Williams.

My Executive Secretary is Toonie Pierce, with Sherry Thompson as the Assistant Executive Secretary. The Administrative Assistant to the President is Olivia Maybee. Our First Lady, Nicole Seneca is currently assisting me in the office as well. Last but not least, our Receptionist is Rheanne Kennedy. Everyone is looking forward to working with you and keeping the office running smoothly. The door is always open and everyone is happy to greet you.

It’s been a very busy and productive time since Canvass Day!

All Executives and Council have been meeting daily with several departments to ensure that everyone is brought up to speed on the many issues the Seneca Nation is facing. We have a very strong council with great experience, new energy, and we’ve been working together in a positive way to do the best for you, the people.

I hope to see everyone at our community events. With the holidays upon us, there are plenty! I hope everyone stays safe with the winter weather on its way.

Nya:wëh,
JC Seneca, President

The post A message from President J.C . Seneca appeared first on SNI Official Newsletter.

President Seneca shared that his swearing in is “historic,” as his father, former President of the Seneca Nation William Seneca was sworn in on the same date, November 12, exactly 56 years ago.

WATCH it:

The post Presidential Address appeared first on SNI Official Newsletter.

Born and raised in the Red House community on the Allegany Territory, I am extremely honored to have recently been elected as our Nation’s Treasurer. I have held various positions within the Nation including the Fiscal Department, Housing Director, two terms as Surrogate Court Judge, and sixteen years as Councillor.

The office of Treasurer / Chief Financial Officer of the Nation oversees the fiscal aspects of the Nation and through consultation and coordination with the President, Clerk, and Council, and addresses the community’s concerns and issues. Please do not hesitate to contact my office should you require assistance or simply wish to talk. Either a staff member or I will assist you. My staff consists of the following:

Jacqueline Crouse, Executive Administrative Assistant to the Treasurer. Jacquie previously held the Executive Secretary position for several years, transitioning between both the President’s Office and Treasurer’s Office.

Kerry J. John, Deputy Chief of Staff. Kerry brings 5 years of experience as former Owner’s Representative for the Nation overseeing numerous capital projects. He has spent the last 5 years alternating Chief of Staff and Deputy Chief of Staff for both President’s and Treasurer’s Offices.
Natalie Stahlman, Executive Assistant to the Treasurer. Natalie recently spent two years assisting the Council Office with various projects and initiatives. Prior to her position in the Council Office, Natalie spent 12 years in our Nation’s Fiscal department with her last held position as Government Budget Officer.

Charisse Ground, Assistant to the Treasurer. Charisse has many years of experience working in our executive offices. She’s worked in the Clerk’s Office, President’s Office, Treasurer’s Office, Council Office, and the Seneca Nation Courts. Charisse also serves as a Notary Public.

Kailee Redeye, Executive Secretary. Kailee has a combined 6 years of experience working in our executive offices, holding various positions in both the President’s and Treasurer’s Office.

Angela Steckman, Executive Secretary. Angela has spent the last 10 years as a Legislative Assistant for the Nation Council Office. Prior to joining the Council Office Angela spent 10 years in the gaming industry.

As you can see, the staff have many years of experience and will capably assist you. As I become more acclimated with this new position, I will certainly provide more information concerning the Nation’s business and financial activities.

Nya:wëh,
Treasurer Al E. George

The post From The Desk of The Treasurer appeared first on SNI Official Newsletter.

• Congratulations to all of our newly elected officials!!!
• Please welcome our new Clerk, Lenith K. Waterman & Deputy Clerk, Pauline “Snap” John
• 2024 General Election Results

DECEMBER IS COMING!!!! MAKE SURE YOU’RE REGISTERED

WELCOME OUR RECENT ENROLLMENTS TO THE SENECA NATION!

Twenty (20) Additions To The Seneca Nation Roll – November 16th, 2024 Regular Session of Council

1. Charolette Ann Rose Addley, Turtle – Watertown, New York
2. Paula Eleanor Arrance, Turtle – Kennedy, New York
3. Parker Noelle Eaves, Unknown – Hoover, Alabama
4. Kai James Enstrom, Bear – Agoura Hills, California
5. River Phoenix Helton, Wolf – Geer, South Carolina
6. Darlynn Renee Huff, Wolf – Gowanda, New York
7. Onyx Michel Hunt, Bear – Salamanca, New York
8. Archer Kade Jimerson, Snipe – Salamanca, New York
9. Ayden Nelson Jimerson, Jr., Bear – Perrysburg, New York
10. John Michael Kelly, Hawk – Lackawanna, New York
11. Tyson Mitchell Kennedy, Wolf – Perrysburg, New York
12. Carson Joseph King, Heron – Auburn, Pennsylvania
13. Kreelynn Grace LeBlanc, Snipe – Little Valley, New York
14. Kairah Marie Marion, Snipe – Houghton, New York
15. Stella Mae Mohawk, Wolf – Perrysburg, New York
16. Niva Lousie Parker, Wolf – Irving, New York
17. Oji’danowe’ Lilith Pierce, Turtle – Nedrow, New York
18. Myles Gene Printup, Turtle – Lawtons, New York
19. Caleb Nicholas Thompson, Wolf – Lawtons, New York
20. Curtis Francis White, Wolf – Salamanca, New York

We are asking parents who recently have or will be having their child(ren) enrolled and wishes to have their child(s) pictures included in future editions of the SN Newsletter, please email a picture to: Scase@sni.org or Lorelei.waterman@sni.org.

ON BEHALF OF THE SENECA NATION, WE SEND OUR HEARTFELT CONDOLENCES TO THE FAMILIES AND FRIENDS THAT HAVE LOST THEIR LOVED ONES

Ten (10) Deletions To The Seneca Nation Roll – November 16th, 2024 Regular Session of Council

1. Hazel V Dean, Wolf – Salamanca, New York
2. Raymond Montes Deoca, Deer – Irving, New York
3. Carl P Doxtator, Turtle – Irving, New York
4. Elizabeth M Huff, Wolf – Perrysburg, New York
5. Burwell Jimerson, Heron – Gowanda, New York
6. Arthur H Jimerson, Sr., Heron – Salamanca, New York
7. Debra L Johnson, Deer – Salamanca, New York
8. John Wayne Lewis, Turtle – Celina, Texas
9. Dennis Logan, Turtle – Gowanda, New York
10. Gail JM Northrup, Bear – Salamanca, New York

CLAN COUNT

As of the Regular Session of Council November 16th, 2024

Bear – 803
Beaver – 600
Deer – 612
Hawk – 812
Heron – 602
Snipe – 702
Turtle – 2498
Wolf – 1879
Unknown – 58
Total Enrollment: 8566

REGISTRATION REMINDER

If you received the postcard, you need to register before 2024 is over!!

IN-PERSON REGISTRATION REQUIREMENT

REFERENCING COUNCIL CERT CN: R-02-11-17-06:
Nation Members are to satisfy the annual registration either in person or by mail each calendar year (January 1 – December 31) and must provide evidence of Nation enrollment upon request; however, they must appear in person at least once every two calendar years (January 1 – December 31); Mail in registrations must be notarized. All mail in registrations must be postmarked no later than December 31st of each year.

MAKE SURE YOUR INFORMATION IS UP TO DATE!!

The Clerk’s office cannot reach you if your phone number is disconnected or your voicemail is full, and we don’t have an updated mailing address on file. The Clerk’s office tried to reach out to those not registered the entire month of December but we could not get though…. Don’t let that be you!!

If your department has an event you would like the Clerk’s Office to attend for registration purposes, please reach out to the Allegany Clerk’s Office: Maura Frazier @ 716-945-1790, ext. 3072 or Maura.frazier@sni.org – or the Cattaraugus Clerk’s Office: Lorelei Waterman @ 716-532-4900, ext. 5059 Lorelei.waterman@sni.org.

SN IDENTIFICATION CARDS

In order to update your photo on your Seneca Nation Identification Card, you must appear in person. All cards issued must have a current photo upon issuance. All cards expire 10 years from issuance.
$10.00 per card
$5.00 per card for Elders (60 yrs. Of age or older)
*Price increase effective 01/08/2024

CLERK’S OFFICE FORMS

Completed forms must be notarized and can be mailed to: Seneca Nation of Indians, 90 Ohi:yo’ Way, Salamanca NY 14779. All forms are available online at www.sni.org under Clerk’s Office documents.

• ADDRESSES
  Please remember to keep your address current with the Clerk’s Office. This includes changes with custody of minor children or legal guardians (Court orders).

• BURIAL FUND
  A Burial fund has been designated to assist in paying for funeral expenses up to $7000 for enrolled members. For additional details, please contact the Clerk’s Office during regular business hours.

• DIRECT DEPOSIT OF ANNUITY AND/OR ELDERS PAYMENTS
  If you would like to sign up for Direct Deposit of your Annuity and/or Elders Check, you will have to complete the form. The form is available on the web at www.sni.org under Documents/Clerk’s Office / Direct Deposit forms or at the Clerk’s Office.

• All direct deposit forms MUST have attached a voided check or deposit slip (start-up checks will NOT be accepted).
• Members must be at least 18 years old to sign up for Direct Deposit
• Minors are NOT eligible for Direct Deposit

*If you receive direct deposit, it is your responsibility to keep your address updated with the Clerk’s Office. Mailings are also done from time to time and those that have not updated their addresses do not get the latest information that is being sent out. This is very important for us to better serve you.

• RELEASE OF MINORS TRUST FUND
  Minor’s Trust Fund mailed third (3rd) Friday of the month.
  Application deadline 2nd Friday of the month.

In order to begin receiving Minor Trust Fund disbursements, a member must be at least 18 years old and submit the following documentation:
• Application for Release of Minors Trust (must be notarized)
• High School Diploma / GED
• Financial Literacy Certificate (http://seneca.cm3solutions.com)
If you need to obtain a Financial Literacy Certificate, please contact the Seneca Nation Education Department for details. Contact Info: Allegany Territory – Seneca Nation Education Department (716) 945-1790, tracy.pacini@sni.org; Cattaraugus Territory – Seneca Nation Education Department (716) 532-3341, Mary.williams@sni.org.

Once the first minors check is mailed the checks are automatically mailed when:
– applicant has obtained 21 years of age
-applicant has obtained 24 years of age trust

ANNUITY CLOTH

Per THE TREATY OF CANANDAIGUA IN 1794, *three (3) yards per person of annuity cloth will be available for pick up anytime in both the Allegany & Cattaraugus Clerk’s Offices.
*Amount to be distributed subject to change.

• The Seneca Nation signed the Treaty of Canandaigua in 1794 with the newly formed United States of America to recognize Nation Sovereignty and land base.
• The United States Government fulfills its obligations under the Treaty with the Six Nations or the Haudenosaunee by sending each cloth symbolizing peace and friendship. The annuity cloth represents the continuing Government to Government relationship with the United States.

DO YOU HAVE MULTIPLE SHARES TO PICK UP AND WISH TO HAVE A BULK ORDER CUT? GIVE US A CALL AHEAD OF TIME AND WE CAN HAVE IT READY FOR YOU.

CONSTITUTION OF THE SENECA NATION

If you would like a physical copy of the Seneca Nation Constitution, they will be available for pick up anytime in both the Allegany and Cattaraugus Clerk’s Offices.

SEEKING INVOCATORS

The Seneca Nation Clerk’s Office is seeking Individuals interested in Invocating/Opening with Ganö:nyök for Council each month. Anyone interested may contact Leslie Cooke at Leslie.Cooke@sni.org, 716-532-4900, ext. 5046.

STS Bus Passes are available for purchase at the Clerk’s Office.

Members are now able to buy passes from the Clerk’s Office to utilize the Seneca Transit System (STS). Prices are as follows:
STS: Daily passes- $1.00 (one way) Monthly passes- $30.00
$3.00 (All day pass)

ALLEGANY RESIDENTS’ GARBAGE APPLICATION / TICKET DISTRIBUTION

The Allegany Clerk’s Office will continue to require ID and proof of utility in your name as we continue to update our records. We appreciate your patience as we complete this process. We are aware that some residents have been skipped over once or twice. All complaints/concerns can be addressed to the Allegany Clerks Office, (716) 945-1790 and we will communicate with Beichner. Please do not contact Beichner directly.

EFFECTIVE IMMEDIATELY!!! ALL ALLEGANY TERRIRTORY RESIDENTS THAT UTILIZE THE GARBAGE TICKETS HAVE A PICKUP ON THURSDAYS.

COME SEE US AT THE OFFICE!!

William Seneca Building – Cattaraugus Territory – (716) 532-4900
Cattaraugus Clerk’s Office Staff
Lenith K. Waterman, Clerk (Notary Public)
Irma Cortes, Executive Assistant to the Clerk
Kelly Mohawk, Deeds Recorder
Leslie Cooke, Executive Secretary (Notary Public)
Lorelei Waterman, Executive Administrative Assistant
Raven Lay, Executive Administrative Assistant
Joleen Lone, Executive Administrative Assistant

Seneca Allegany Administration Building – Allegany Territory – (716) 945-1790
Allegany Clerk’s Office Staff
Pauline John, Deputy Clerk
Sue Case, Enrollment Officer
Kathleen “Yomie” Hill, Vital Records Specialist
Maura Frazier, Executive Secretary (Notary Public)
Patrick Blewitt, Executive Administrative Assistant

The Buffalo Office Staff & Location – (716) 845-6304 or (716) 951-7555
The Buffalo Office works in Conjunction with the Clerk’s Office.
Ramona Marion – Director
Stephanie Maybee – Administrative Assistant
Judson Logan – Tutor
Tajanay Irizarry – Activity Coordinator

Located at: 265 Skillen Street, Buffalo, NY 14207
Hours: Monday-Friday: 8am-4:30pm
(Please use side door entrance next to parking lot)

CLERK’S OFFICE HOURS:

Allegany & Cattaraugus Clerk’s Office hours are Monday through Friday; 8:00 am – 4:30 pm. Both Clerk’s offices will be open from 8:00 A.M. – 12:00 P.M. each Saturday of the Regular Council session.

We encourage members to bring their own pen if needed, as a safety precaution.

Please have your SNI Enrollment # ready when you are visiting or calling the Clerk’s Office.

The post News From The Clerk’s Office appeared first on SNI Official Newsletter.