Notice: RFB for Sheds and Signage Canceled

The Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe is notifying community members and interested contractors that the Request for Bids (RFB) for Sheds and Signage at Mashpee Wampanoag Village has been canceled.

At this time, the Tribe will not be moving forward with the current RFB process. If the project is reissued in the future, updated information and a new solicitation will be shared through the Tribe’s official communications channels.

Thank you to everyone who expressed interest in this opportunity.

Third Massachusetts Tribal & Indigenous Health Summit

Tribal members and community partners are encouraged to save the date for the Third Massachusetts Tribal & Indigenous Health Summit, taking place on Wednesday, April 15, 2026, from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

This year’s theme—“Stronger Together: Growing Inclusive State-Tribal Partnerships”—will focus on strengthening collaboration and improving systems that support Indigenous health and wellness across the Commonwealth.

The summit will be held at the Courtyard by Marriott Marlborough, 75 Felton Street, Marlborough, MA 01752.

Registration details will be shared in 2026. For questions about the summit or to request accommodations, email DCE@mass.gov.

Pre-Apprentice Program: Mashpee Information Session – February 4

Tribal members and community members interested in building trades careers are invited to attend a Pre-Apprentice Program Information Session in Mashpee on Wednesday, February 4 at 11:00 AM (sharp) at the Mashpee Wampanoag Government Center.

This session is being hosted in partnership with Building Pathways South (BPS) and is powered by Vineyard Wind, with additional support from partners including First Light Casino and MANSA.

Registration is preferred, but walk-ins are welcome. Participants can register through buildingpathwayssouth.com or by scanning the QR code on the flyer.

Save the Date: 2026 Massachusetts Envirothon for High School Students

Families, educators, and community partners who work with high school teens are invited to share an exciting opportunity: registration is now open for the 2026 Massachusetts Envirothon.

The Massachusetts Envirothon is more than a competition—it’s a hands-on, team-based learning experience where students become environmental problem solvers. Student teams explore key topic areas including forestry, soils, water, and wildlife, then work together to present thoughtful solutions to real environmental challenges facing communities across the Commonwealth.

JOM Application for School Year 2026–2027 Coming Soon

The Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe Education Department is sharing an important notice for parents and guardians of Native students ages 3 through Grade 12: the Johnson-O’Malley (JOM) application for School Year 2026–2027 will be published soon.

The application will be shared through multiple channels, including the Mittark, the Tribe’s website, and the Tribe’s Facebook page. The Education Department will also distribute the application through the eight school districts the Tribe partners with: Falmouth, Sandwich, Bourne, Barnstable, Mashpee, Weetumuw School, Wareham, and New Bedford.

First Light Bar Opens Feb. 6 for Championship Weekend and Power Play Promotions

First Light Casino’s highly anticipated bar, First Light Bar, is set to open Friday, February 6, launching during one of the biggest weekends of the year and leading directly into the Championship Game on Sunday. The new space is designed to be intimate, efficient, and easy to enjoy. Service will include beer, wine, and a pre-mixed cocktails, with an emphasis on quality and speed of service for guests.

Scholarship Opportunities Now Open for Students Pursuing Energy Careers

The American Association of Blacks in Energy (AABE) is now accepting applications for its 2026 scholarship programs, offering financial support and professional development opportunities for students pursuing education and careers in energy-related fields.

AABE Greater Boston Chapter Scholarship

The AABE Greater Boston Chapter has launched its 2026 Scholarship Program to support graduating Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) high school seniors in Massachusetts who plan to pursue studies in energy-related fields.

Winter Wonderland Youth Ball Coming February 28

The Mashpee Wampanoag Youth Council invites families to join them for a fun-filled Winter Wonderland Youth Ball—an afternoon of food, games, dancing, crafts, and more for our youngest community members.

The event will take place on Saturday, February 28, 2026, from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM at the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe Community and Government Center, 483 Great Neck Road South, Mashpee, MA 02649. Children 12 and under are welcome to attend.

Talking Circle: Mashpee River Fish Passage Project

Tribal members are invited to take part in a Talking Circle focused on the Mashpee River Fish Passage Project, an effort exploring the removal of the Mashpee River Fishway Dam and opportunities to restore fish passage, river health, and cultural connections to the Mashpee River.

This gathering will provide space to learn more about the project, share perspectives, and help shape a community vision for the future of the river.

Wamp Ball DJ Services RFP Due February 13

After several years, the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe’s Annual Ball is officially making its return in 2026, and planning is now underway for what has long been one of the Tribe’s most popular community celebrations.

As part of the planning process, the Tribe is inviting qualified DJs and event service providers to submit proposals to provide DJ services for the 2026 Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe Ball, scheduled for Saturday, March 28, 2026, at The Coonamessett in Falmouth.

Share Your Stories in the Mittark

The Mittark has always been a place for the Mashpee Wampanoag community to stay connected — by sharing news, celebrating milestones, and honoring the people who make our Tribe strong. We invite Tribal members and families to help keep that spirit alive by submitting stories, updates, and announcements to be included in future issues.

Whether it’s a family milestone, a child’s achievement, an elder you would like to recognize, or a community event you want others to know about, your stories help strengthen the bonds that connect us as a people.