January 2025 Member Meeting & Mixer

Robert Solomon (Bob), Nooksack Tribal member, currently serves as the Board’s Vice Chairperson. Prior to his current term, Bob served as a Board member in various roles since 2013. Bob brings a wealth of experience to the Board and was involved in the original collection of characters that helped organize the Tribal Convenience Store Association.

Outside of TCSA, Bob has 42 years of retail experience and has serves as the Retail General Manager for the Nooksack Market Center for the past 21 years. Bob also oversees the Gift Store at the Northwood Casino and Between the Ferns Cannabis. Prior to his time spent with the Nooksack Tribe, Bob oversaw the Lummi Mini Mart and the Fisherman’s Cove for eight years as the Retail Operations Manager.

Bob has also had the pleasure of serving as a Nooksack Tribal Councilmember for 12 years. Bob also sits on NBCII, NBCIII, and MCI Board of Directors.  Bob’s terms as Retail General Manager, Board member, and Councilmember have provided a unique and invaluable perspective concerning the operation of a C-Store in Indian Country. Bob also serves as the Nooksack’s Tribes delegate on the Tribal Tax Advisory Group (TTAG group). Bob looks forward to helping TCSA evolve and grow.

Sam Roark, General Manager at Nisqually Markets, brings 25 years of experience in the C-Store/Travel Center industry to his role. As a three-time recipient of the Shell Global Gold Retailer award, ranking in the top 1% worldwide, Sam demonstrates a track record of excellence. Currently, he oversees a $200 million annual business line, driving growth and success for Nisqually Markets.

Tony currently serves as the Director of Operations for the Medicine Creek Enterprise Corporation (MCEC), a Nisqually Indian Tribe business, overseeing its retail division, Nisqually Markets.

With a tenure at Nisqually dating back to 2014, Tony's journey with TCSA began when he was introduced to Ron Myers, a revered figure in the industry. Attending his first TCSA meeting as a guest, Tony found the educational sessions invaluable and the networking opportunities extensive. Witnessing the meticulous planning and execution of board meetings firsthand left a lasting impression on Tony, motivating him to contribute his experience to the board.

Tony's dedication extends beyond his professional endeavors; he has a fervent passion for coaching football. He devotes numerous hours to volunteering and coaching youth tackle football programs and specialty clinics, embodying his commitment to mentoring young student-athletes.

Jennifer Hines is the Deputy Chief Executive Officer of Medicine Creek Enterprise Corporation (“MCEC”) where she facilitates management of the growing enterprise system of the Nisqually Indian Tribe. She is a transformative leader in the field of economic development with an unwavering commitment to advancing economic growth and equity for the Nisqually community. She is renowned for her strategic acumen and advocacy for pioneering policies that drive meaningful change. 

Throughout her professional tenure, Jennifer has demonstrated exceptional leadership in educating, managing, and advising stakeholders across various sectors. Her expertise encompasses navigating complex legal landscapes and fostering collaborative partnerships to achieve strategic objectives. In her current role Jennifer continues to spearhead initiatives that foster equitable economic growth. With support from the remarkable teams at MCEC and dedication to action-oriented policies, Jennifer remains at the forefront of advancing economic development and social justice.