Top Ten Most Regifted Gifts

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Did you know there’s a Web site devoted to the art of regifting? Regiftable.com is a veritable treasure-trove of regifting rules and ideas. The mission of the superslick site, from Money Management International, is to make regifting less shameful. And in these humbuggy financial times, more people than ever are passing things along and around. So in the spirit of cheap-o gift giving, here are our top 10 most regifted items:

10. Booze- The ultimate last-minute hostess gift — an unopened bottle of whatever from your liquor cabinet! Just make sure it truly is unopened and isn’t something that can go bad, like a cream liqueur or a corked bottle of wine. And please, clean off the dust and put it in a nice gift bag.

9. Gift cards- Perfectly acceptable and even a hot commodity on eBay, gift cards are fine to regift if you’re not a fan of the store but know someone who is. Just make sure the gift card hasn’t expired or the store hasn’t gone out of business.

8. Fruitcake – Sure, make fun of the citron-studded brick, but some people actually like them. Especially if they’re made by monks, like the ones from Assumption Abbey.

7. Candles – Candles are fine to regift if you don’t like the scent or the shape. A bad idea (and a dead giveaway) if the wick is burned

6. Cookbooks – Not a fan of Peruvian vegetarian cuisine? Regift away. Make it more special by using wooden spoons as a decorative bow accent.

5. Jewelry – Hey, you can always say that you found the perfect piece at an estate sale, when actually the estate sale was the bottom of your jewelry box. Just get yourself some good jewelry cleaner and you’re good to go.

4. Picture frame- Hey, Mrs. Newlywed, did you get way too many lovely silver picture frames for your wedding? Here’s an idea: Find a picture of your best bud, put it in one of those frames and voila! An instant personal regift.

3. Gift basket – This can either be a great regift or a horrible mistake. Before you slap a bow on an unloved gift basket, make sure the food hasn’t expired or the hand lotion hasn’t gone funky or you’ll have some ‘splainin’ to do.

2. Housewares – Coffee grinders, blenders, wine openers — all can become great regifts with just a simple addition. Add a pound of coffee with the grinder, a drink mix with the blender and a bottle of wine (‘natch!) with the wine opener.

1. Clothing – According to many surveys, clothing is the No. 1 most regifted item. Probably most often the oh-so-cutesy holiday sweater!

 

Deborah Parker issues Clarion call

Press Release, Communities Against Violence Network, December 19, 2012

Today, Tulalip Tribal Vice Chairwoman Deborah Parker remains united with all 12 Democratic female U.S. Senators in demanding immediate passage of the bipartisan, Senate version of the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) reauthorization.

“This issue must absolutely transcend partisan politics, “said Vice Chairwoman Parker, a survivor of abuse in Indian Country, who went public with her story this year in support of the VAWA. “It is one of our fundamental human rights; the right of each and every American woman to live free from threats or acts of physical harm.”

Parker continued: “A woman’s class of origin or race and physical location at the time of sexual assault or physical abuse should not dictate her protection under the U.S.  Constitution. All women and children must be protected, especially the original women of this continent.” It is widely reported that House Leadership is holding up the bill, by objecting to provisions in the Senate VAWA that would restore to tribal governments the limited power to prosecute non-≠‐Indians who enter Indian Country and commit violence against Indian women.

I urge all of my fellow Americans to call Rep. Eric Cantor’s office and urge that he agree to guard against any more Native women being sexually or physically abused in Indian Country,” Parker concluded.

The direct number to Rep. Cantor’s Office is (202) 225-8208;2815.

Hawks lose by two points against Lummi Blackhawks, 62-64

By Brandi N. Montreuil; photos by Mike Sarich

Tulalip Hawks play against the Lummi Blackhawks, December 114th.
Tulalip Hawks play against the Lummi Blackhawks, December 114th.

Tulalip Heritage Hawks went toe to toe against the Lummi Blackhawks during a home game for the Hawks on December 14th. During the heated exchange of points scored and rebounds it looked like the Hawks would end the night with an amazing win, until Blackhawks made a last minute drive to score in the last four seconds of the game and connected with the hoop to take the win with a final game score of 62-64.

The first quarter ended in a tie for both teams scoring 14 points. Hawks took a three-point lead going into the third quarter where the Blackhawks make a return with a two-point lead and continued into the fourth quarter, ending with a three-point lead over Hawks 15.

Keanu Hamilton led the Hawks with 19 points scored, Payton Comenote 13, Dontae Jones 12, Shawn Sanchey 7, Brandon Jones 6, and Robert Miles 5.

Winning the fight against tobacco and drugs, one step at a time

 

Tulalip Tribal members, William McLean III, Tisha McLean, and Angela Davis show their support at the Walk Against Tobacco and Drugs.

Article and photos by Jeannie Briones

TULALIP, Washington –  Tulalip Tribal members and community members joined together on December 19th for a walk to honor loved ones lost to tobacco and drug-related illness and to support the many efforts taking place to reduce tobacco use and exposure to secondhand smoke, and raise awareness of the health impacts of using drugs.

The first annual “Walk Against Tobacco and Drugs, ” organized by Tulalip Tribal member Tisha McLean and friends, began at the Tulalip Longhouse and spanned almost 2 miles, finishing at the Northwest Indian College Tulalip site. Despite the cold and rain, people showed their support, sending the message that they care about each other and share in the common goal of saying no to alcohol, tobacco and other drugs.

“I am walking, in part, for my son who is an addict. He has the same problem as a lot of tribal members. I am a spiritual person and our ancestors are walking with us and they’re thankful that somebody’s paying attention to the problem we have. It doesn’t have to be leaders; it has to be our community, our kids that are here today. Tobacco is the leading killer, it tops alcohol and drugs,” said Tulalip Tribal Board Member, Marlin Fryberg.

“It’s truly an epidemic. We all care so much for everybody in our community and want to help everyone,” echoed Tulalip Tribal Board Member, Mark Hatch.

Halfway through the walk, community members where greeted by the Tulalip Police Department, who rallied together to show their support, offering warm beverages.

Wrapping up the event at Northwest Indian College, participants took in a visual display, created by Tulalip police officers, outlining the dangers of addiction. Community members also enjoyed a light lunch, while sharing stories of family members and friends who are addicted to drugs, and the affects this has on their loved ones.

“I have dealt with it my entire life. My parents were addicts, my dad got better, but my mom is still an addict. And I have siblings that followed in their footsteps,” said Tisha, who went on to say that tribal members need to take the first step in wanting help and that people such as herself want to help them embrace a healthy lifestyle and say “no” to drugs, alcohol, and tobacco use.

 

Jeannie Briones: 360-716-4188; jbriones@tulaliptribes-nsn.gov

Santa Run collects food for families in need

Santa greets children in the Tulalip area.
Santa greets children in the Tulalip area.

Submitted by Peter Spawn, Tulalip Fire Department

Tulalip Bay Fire Department recently held their annual Santa Run/Food Drive.  Off-duty firefighters come together and volunteer their time to escort Santa around the district, spreading holiday cheer and collecting food for the local food bank. This year was a success as we gathered over 600 pounds of non-perishable food items.  We would like to thank our community for the continued support we receive each and every year during this event.

Tulalip Fire Fighters with Santa
Tulalip Fire Fighters with Santa

Credits: Eric Berwick photographs, fire dist. 15 photographer, Peter Spawn

Program helps tribal members succeed in the workforce

 

Tulalip Tribal member Charlotte Jones is working, thanks to the tribe's Job Placement Program.
Tulalip Tribal member Charlotte Jones has steady work, thanks to the tribe’s Job Placement Program.

 

Article and photo by Jeannie Briones    

TULALIP, Washington – Many Native Americans who reside on the Tulalip reservation live below the poverty level. While homelessness and unemployment are still common on the reservation, help can be found at the Tulalip 477 Department, where staff is working to enhance the lives of tribal members, and increase employment opportunities.

477 is an employment, education, training and welfare program for federally recognized tribes to address economic and workforce needs in their communities. According to Tulalip’s 477 mission statement, they are seeking to empower unemployed and underemployed community tribal members; to provide a one-stop for support services; job coaching and like skill workshops that will uplift; and bring tribal members to a level of success.

Incorporating federal resources from the Department of the Interior, the Department of Labor and Health and Human Services into a comprehensive employment, education and training program, staff is working to increase tribal member’s success in the job market and gain independence, not only for them, but also for future generations. Other benefits to this support service may include financial assistance for work-related items like gas vouchers, car repair, tools and clothes.

The Tribal Job Placement Program, available through the 477 Department, offers assistance to help tribal members gain the skills for full-time employment and overcome the obstacles that may be holding them back. Some of these obstacles include the lack of a driver’s license, high school diploma or GED. In this program, case managers work closely with participants, offering positive reinforcement and creating plans for obtaining their goals and overcoming their barriers.

“We take them in and assess them to see what their barriers are. Let’s say their barriers include not having a GED. We create a plan with them and write up expectations in their plan, and they will be required to go to GED classes. If they can work, we will network with other tribal entities or departments,” explained Shirley “Dodie” Jones, Adult Service Grants Coordinator Supervisor.

Case managers offer additional support by attending their client’s interviews to help smooth the hiring process and ease their interview jitters.

Once participants are placed in a job, their wages are paid through the Job Placement Program, while they work to fulfill their goals and complete their obligations. Once these obligations are met, applicants may either remain in their current employment position or use their newly gained skills to apply elsewhere.

One success story comes from Charlotte Jones, who for the past three months has been working for Social Services through the Job Placement Program.

“When I came here [to the program], I felt like I had so many things I had to complete and I felt like I was never going to be done with my obstacles. I found someone here to listen and help, and not judge me. I have someone that stands behind me to make sure I am treated fairly,” said Charlotte. “If I didn’t get on the program, I don’t know where I would be. Everything I am doing is to get my life back on track.”

The Tulalip 477 Program is currently undergoing some changes. More training classes will offered, such as cash handling, computer training and work ethics, so participants can gain a better insight of what to expect in the workforce.

Depending on the applicant’s situation and qualifications, case managers may also outsource trainings that are offered at the Goodwill, Volunteers of America, Salvation Army and other outside services.

“We try to find job placement if we think they are ready. We will work to their schedule because we really want to get people placed in jobs,” said Shirley. “If they don’t get a livable wage job, they’re going back to poverty, and what do people do if they can’t pay their bills or buy food for their kids? Most of the time they start drinking or doing drugs.”

For more information, or to find out if you qualify for the 477 programs, email Shirley “Dodie” Jones at sjones@tulaliptribes-nsn.gov.

Jeannie Briones: 360-716-4188; jbriones@tulaliptribes-nsn.gov

 

Letter from Marysville School District Superintendent

Submitted by Monica Brown, Tulalip Tribes Communications Department

December 17, 2012

Dear Marysville School District families,

Words cannot express how saddened we all are over the series of events that unfolded at Sandy Hook Elementary in Newtown, Connecticut. Our hearts go out to all those directly affected by this tragic and senseless shooting. As educators and parents we are especially saddened that most of the victims were vulnerable, innocent children. As our students hear of these events that may understandably feel anxious and frightened. The same feelings will most likely be experienced by parents and school staff as well. We are all affected and feeling less safe as a result.

Although we hope that it will never be necessary, we want you to know that our school district has a comprehensive student safety plan and we practice drills for lockdown, fire and other issues on a regular basis in our schools. We work with the Marysville and Tulalip Police and Fire Departments and the Snohomish County Sherriff’s Department as a part of our continuing effort to keep our children safe.

The following suggestions may be helpful to parents in assisting their children during this time:

  • Turn off or monitor the television. Endless news programs are likely to heighten anxiety, and young children cannot distinguish between images on television and their personal reality.
  • Maintain a normal routine.
  • Speak simply and honestly. Tell the truth using words the child can understand.
  • Remain calm and reassuring. Children take their cues from their parents and other caring adults around them.
  • Be a good listener and observer. Pay attention to changes in behavior.

Coming together and supporting each other is important at a time like this to help us get through our feelings of disbelief, fear and grief – and to help out children feel safe again. Every school has a counselor available to help your child should they need support.

Additional resources for parents and families are available on the following web sites:

We will continue to work together with parents, as a staff, and a community to keep our schools a safe place to learn, grow and work.

 

Sincerely,

Larry Nyland, Superintendent

Marysville School District No.25
4220 80th Street NE – Marysville, WA 98270
p. 360-653-0800 f. 360-629-1990

Students let the Christmas cheer ring out

 

Quil Ceda Elementary 4th grade students sang at the Annual Winter program at the Heritage High School's Gym.
Quil Ceda Elementary 4th grade students sing at the Annual Winter Program, held at the Heritage High School.

Article and photo by Jeannie Briones

The sounds of Christmas filled the air on December 19th as the students of Quil Ceda Elementary School presented their annual Christmas program. Due to the abundance of community members that regularly attend the event, this year’s program was held in the gymnasium at Tulalip Heritage High School. And with over 400 students, parents, and friends in attendance this year, the space was much needed.

The students put on a festive evening of holiday music, with selections presented by each grade level in the school, while family members took photos and videos of the little stars.

Native American Liaison, Eliza Davis enjoys having the community gathered for the winter program to show their support and love for the kids. Family and friends enjoyed songs, “Candle for Remembering,” which was belted out the fifth graders.

“I really enjoy singing for family and elders,” said Tribal member, Jasmin Mclean, a 5th grade student at the Quil Ceda Elementary School.

“It gets better every year. The spirit and the variety; it’s different every year and it’s not the same traditional Christmas songs,” said proud parent Krista Haley, supporting her daughter at the winter program.

Following the show, refreshments were served and attendees even got their photos taken with Santa, a perfect ending to a wonderful night of holiday magic.

 

Jeannie Briones: 360-716-4188; jbriones@tulalipbriones-nsn.gov

 

 

Holiday wreath making

Article and Photos by Moncia Brown

The Hibulb Cultural Center hosted “The Greens of the Earth” holiday wreath making day on Wednesday, December 19th. From 9am to 3:30pm people were invited to come and make holiday wreaths with fresh picked cedar boughs, salal, ferns, twigs and pinecones and decorate with items such as bows, presents and ornaments. Attendees arrived eager to make their own holiday arrangment and enjoyed refreshments of cider, fireweed tea, cookies, fruit, cheese and crackers.

For information about this event contact:

Veronica (Roni) Leahy, Diabetes Care and Prevention Program (360) 716-2635

Inez Bill Ce um ton not, Cultrual Resources (360) 716-2638