STATE OF THE NATION

By Harrison J. Bahe

On February 3rd, 2025, President Sandra Pattea held a meeting in the large auditorium of the Fort McDowell Recreation Center to address tribal members about the State of the Nation.

Tribal members gathered in the large auditorium at 6pm in the evening where the meeting promptly began. The people were lead in the Pledge of Allegiance by Youth Council member Danika Hosteenez and a prayer by Vice President Paul Russell was held. Afterward, those in attendance were treated to some hearty Gola Stew and frybread which was graciously provided by elder Pamela Mott.

President Sandra Pattea then proceeded with the meeting which featured an intricate slideshow filled to the brim with information regarding the Nation. One of the major things that was discussed was the concern about ICE agents apprehending tribal members. President Sandra Pattea discussed the steps that were being taken and that a letter had gone out to tribal members on what to do if you are stopped or questioned by ICE agents. She went on to discuss each enterprise and government department. Within the slides were revenue sheets which featured the amount of money each enterprise and certain government departments were bringing into the tribe. Each government department slide showcased an extended list of achievements that were reached in the 2024 fiscal year. Alongside those lists were personal goals each department had for the upcoming 2025 fiscal year. As the meeting ended, President Sandra Pattea shared a plethora of upcoming events happening within every department. Each event was presented as a flyer within the slideshow.