Nicole Harris of Snoqualmie was recently awarded a scholarship for the 2009-2010 academic year by the Washington Indian Gaming Association (WIGA). Nicole, a member of the Snoqualmie tribe, is currently pursuing a bachelor’s degree at the Eastern Washington University.
WIGA is a non-profit organization of tribal leaders in Washington state. It runs a scholarship program for tribal members pursuing higher education degrees. The program is designed to promote tribal self-sufficiency by providing scholarships for Native American students in Washington seeking to advance their own self-sufficiency and broaden their personal and professional potential through higher education. The organization also educates the Indian gaming community, the public and all levels of government about gaming issues.
Nicole received a $1,200 scholarship. Enrolled members of the WIGA tribes and Indian students in Washington state are eligible. Scholarships are awarded to students pursuing degrees at community and technical colleges, four-year colleges, and post-graduate and professional schools.
“This year, we had many qualified applicants to choose from, which made our selection process very difficult,” said WIGA chairman W. Ron Allen. “But it reflects the increasing depth of talent among young tribal members. The winners should be very proud of themselves for standing out among their peers.”
WIGA awarded a total of $30,000 in scholarship funds to 25 students.
For more information about the WIGA Scholarship program, call 360-352-3248 or visit www.washingtonindiangaming.org.
What began as part of the Snoqualmie centennial birthday celebration 20 years ago has evolved into one of the most fun, family friendly events of the summer. Besides the scenic bike ride that takes off from Meadowbrook Farms in North Bend, expect some festivities at the finish line such as the funk band Emerald City Throwdown, a juggling act, face painting and the chance for participants to win some great door prizes. Register for $35 at www.tourdepeaks.com or just sign up for $40 on the day of the ride.
This evening’s SEA meeting for the SVSD 410 teachers resulted in a decision to strike in the fall before school begins if the cost of living increase mandated by the State of Washington is not implemented by SVSD.
The State legislature recently approved the cost of living adjustment, but does not fully fund the increase. SVSD has the burden of covering $.85 of each $1 for employees and $.31 for certificated teachers.
Are the people who live in the Snoqualmie Valley aware that most of the teachers that teach in the district cannot even afford to live in it?
Consider what it means to have your children recognize their own teachers in their greater community, and how important it is that those who serve the community be able to live in it.
The district leadership needs to find a way to get this increase passed without forcing these teachers – already stressed to the hilt by the middle school split to Twin Falls and the mayhem at Mt. Si – to endure any more pain.
Casino Snoqualmie is scheduled to open sometime between October and December 2008. The FAQ page on the Casino Snoqualmie website has lots of answers to casino-related questions and a map of the floor plan.
And they’re hiring! Job applications can be obtained now at the Casino Snoqualmie office on site at 37500 SE North Bend Way, Snoqualmie, WA 98065, or later online at www.casinosnoqualmie.com
My most valued neighborhood news source for the last year has been the West Seattle Blog, and now having moved to Snoqualmie, I see the same kind of opportunity here in the Snoqualmie Valley for a news source that is instant, allows for community commentary, and provides valuable forums for information.
My greatest hope is that we are able to build this resource to the heights that WSB has achieved. I fully credit them for developing this format and setting a terrific standard for community news