The Quileute Tribal Council is pleased to announce after the Jan. 17 annual elections that effective Jan. 24 the reorganization of the Quileute Tribal Council is as follows:

Charles “Chas” Woodruff, CHAIRMAN

Naomi Jacobson, VICE CHAIRMAN

Cathy Salazar, SECRETARY

Crystal Lyons, TREASURER

Justin “Rio” Jaime, MEMBER AT LARGE

Former Chairman Tony Foster did not seek re-election.

The 2014 Quileute Tribal Council released the following statement:

“We would like to thank the community for the continued support. This council looks forward to working together as a team and taking into consideration the concerns and ideas from our Tribal Members.”  

The newly elected members Salazar, Lyons and Jaime expressed a number of different emotions upon learning of the election results and all are honored, humbled and eager to work hard.

What did you think when you first learned who the membership elected and who your new "team" consisted of?

Chas Woodruff: I was so pleased with the results. I’m excited and I’m looking forward to working with this council.

Naomi: I was excited to hear who was elected and have enjoyed working with Crystal and Cathy these past few months. They bring a lot of experience and insights to this council that will greatly benefit the progress that has been made and I’m confident it will continue. I was pleased to hear Rio was elected. Our younger generation being recognized by our community is important, especially with his cultural knowledge.

How are you feeling about this year’s council?

Cathy Salazar: This year will bring opportunities to work together, maximizing each other’s strengths to work diligently for the Quileute community. I have a positive outlook for our team and expect great results as we plan to hit the ground running by working on the current legal issues, policy revisions and all aspects of our governmental operations.

What are your goals as treasurer?

Crystal Lyons: As a treasurer, I’m looking forward to having the time to review the duties of the treasurer and incorporating those into what I do, my normal routine, fulfilling those duties, and then updating the duties that are outdated. I can’t wait to dedicate 100 percent of my time to my position.

What are your goals as Member at Large?

Rio Jaime: I want to bring a voice that represents the cultural part of the community and I have a huge focus on the youth and the youth being able to succeed in their future.