Bozho nikanek
(Hello friends),
The arrival of the New Year always gives us all a chance to reflect on the past and to look forward to the future. I for one, am glad to see 2017 go. Too many parts of our country have suffered loss, as have our members. From tornados and hurricanes to floods and fires, it seemed like we just couldn’t catch a break in 2017.
Regardless of what you do or where you live, I believe everyone has a responsibility to help make our community, our family and our tribe better, stronger and more vibrant than it was when we arrived.
Your government at work
With that said, I would like to announce that I will be seeking a third term as your District 7 representative. The honor and trust you bestowed on me in 2010 and again in 2014 by electing me and re-electing me are never taken lightly or for granted. I hope I have earned your trust.
I have said many times over the last eight years that it is refreshing to be a part of a government that works. I believe that, over the last eight years, Citizen Potawatomi Nation has been able to successfully defend itself, but it seems, unfortunately, like that job never ends. At the same time, I believe we have made great improvements toward meeting the needs of our members and growing smartly to meet the needs of our members in the future.
Vice-Chairman Linda Capps and Secretary-Treasurer D. Wayne Trousdale are also on the ballot this year, and I strongly encourage you to support them, as the leadership that they provide in the Executive branch and our Nation is invaluable. Combined with the vision and leadership provided by Chairman John “Rocky” Barrett, it is easy to see why the government and other tribes look to Citizen Potawatomi Nation as a model for which they hope to be. It’s hard to argue with the results.
Looking ahead
As always, it’s never too early to start planning to attend the Family Reunion Festival June 29-July 1 in Shawnee, Oklahoma. You can learn more about this year’s event at potawatomi.org/culture/family-reunion-festival.
Once again, I would like to say what an honor it is to serve you as your District 7 representative. As always, give me a call, and I will be happy to work with you on any questions you might have or provide you with additional information you might need to access tribal benefits you are entitled to.
Please also take the time to give me a call or send me an email with your contact information so that I can keep you informed of the happenings within the Nation and district.
Migwetch
(Thank you),
Mark Johnson, Wisk Mtek
(Strong as a Tree)
Representative, District 7
1565 Shaw Ave., Suite 202
Clovis, CA 93611
559-351-0078 cell
mark.johnson@potawatomi.org