I really want to say that the public relations and outreach Fire District 13 continues to provide to our Swinomish Indian Tribal Community has not only been creative but it has nurtured our Spirits too, throughout 2020 and continues in 2021.

For example, FD 13 has a staff member call me every single morning through a “Good Morning” program I signed up for when I first fell ill a few years ago. I also qualified for it because I am a Swinomish Elder. I look forward to their phone call every morning, especially during this pandemic. If I don’t answer their call they will come in person to check on me. Their call gives me a chance to touch bases with them for a minute and I get to ask them how they are too. I keep them in my thoughts and prayers every day. Sometimes I like dropping off goodies too (they welcome them, arrange a drop off with Chief Weiss).

I really appreciate them so much and hope they stay extra safe as they respond to emergencies around our district and beyond, especially during this pandemic. I am so grateful that we have vaccines now and hope everyone who wants one gets vaccinated soon.

Social distancing has become the new normal as we all know. Luckily, FD 13 teamed up with our Swinomish police department and provided many birthday parades throughout the year. The grand finale for last year was the first ever Swinomish “Santa Claus parade” that took place on Dec. 23,2020.

I hope to someday see some our Swinomish tribal members join FD 13 and become fire fighters and/or EMTs. There is a terrific academy that they can go through at Skagit Valley College. If anyone is interested in this program or would like to volunteer please contact Chief Weiss.

Have a safe “2021” everyone. I am so glad the vaccine is here. I hope it helps us push this pandemic right out the door.

With all my heart, hope and gratitude.

Robin Carneen

Swinomish Tribal Member