Over 60 community members helped usher in the spring season on the night of April 9, at the first Culture Night gathering of 2024. For many tribal families, this is a time of year that is dedicated to learning, practicing, engaging, and sharing in the ancestral teachings of the Tulalip people.
With the promise of numerous fun cultural activities on the horizon, including the annual Salmon Ceremony, Canoe Journey, and Spee-Bi-Dah, the Tulalip events department is hosting the weekly Culture Night gatherings, every Tuesday at 5:30 p.m., to help prepare tribal members for the upcoming summertime events.
Summer is filled with an abundance of teachings that are important to the tribal nation, such as harvesting traditional foods, plants, and medicines like huckleberries, cedar, salmon, and shellfish. The act of exercising their inherent treaty rights and gathering these items is a significant aspect of the Tulalip culture, which is why it is important for younger generations to learn about the preparation and work that goes into these ceremonies and gatherings, so they can in turn pass it on to the future of the Tribe in the years to come.
At Culture Night, the community gets the chance to learn a handful of Tulalip’s songs and dances that have been passed down throughout the generations. More importantly, they do so at a slower pace, and take the time to show the little ones each step, drumbeat, and chant, so when the time comes, they are able to perform this work at game speed.
Additionally, Culture Night has become synonymous with traditional crafting, due to the fact that many community members utilize the three-hour event to stitch and weave together regalia items for themselves and their families, including shawls, vests, headbands and more. This year, the events department teamed up with the Rediscovery Program for Culture Night. Together, they are making a strong effort to ensure that Tulalip has matching regalia for this summer’s cultural gatherings by providing regalia kits, so families have everything they need to fashion their own traditional attire.
Said Tulalip Events Manager, Malory Simpson, “We’ll be doing kits again this year, so shawl kits and vest kits. And we want to prevent waste, so we’ll be requiring them to check out their kits each week, to make sure projects are completed before they move on. We’re trying to plan, coordinate, and be more uniformed as far as our regalia style. One thing that we will provide this year is a certain color scheme for the material of our regalia.
“I’m excited to see that cohesiveness, coming together as a tribe and representing the Tribe as a whole, overall, in our matching regalia. I really want to see that this year. And if it’s not something that community members want to use, if they want to make their own or use their family colors, they will be responsible for bringing that their selves, but we’ll still have sewing machines and materials available for them to use.”
Although the first Culture Night of the year was somewhat lowkey, there was still plenty of buzz in the air in anticipation for the weeks to come, leading up to all those exciting and important cultural events taking place this summer.
This gathering was a great way to get the ball rolling and a wonderful opportunity for the community to share in some fun and laughter together, as well as discuss a number of upcoming events, including the 5:30 p.m. Canoe Washing on Monday April 15, at the Hibulb Cultural Center, and also Salmon Ceremony practice which begins on April 18, at 5:30 p.m., and is set to occur every Thursday at the Gathering Hall until the Salmon Ceremony takes place on June 1. The annual MMIW/P Day on May 3 is another event the community looks forward to participating in each year, and it’s in a space where they are able to put all their teachings that they’ve acquired from attending Culture Night to use, to help spread their healing medicine through that good work.
“I’m just excited to gather again and provide a safe place for people to come, enjoy time together, share songs, dance, and learn,” Malory expressed. “This is the time to come out and learn, before we get into the bigger ceremonies. Some people are starting out from ground zero and seeing that growth throughout the weeks is exciting – being able to see that excitement on their faces when they finish their regalia and seeing them at Salmon Ceremony or on Canoe Journey dancing in their regalia, it’s really cool to see all their hard work and their pride when they get to wear it.”
Culture Night is happening every Tuesday from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. On April 16, Culture Night will take place at the Tulalip Dining Hall once again. The following weeks, the location will change to the Kenny Moses Building – same time, same day of the week though. Be sure to join in if you would like to craft regalia or practice a few songs and dances with the community.
On Saturday, March 30, the Gathering Hall became a poignant gathering place as around 100 people convened to commemorate and honor those who served during the Vietnam War. This heartfelt event, known as the Vietnam Veterans Welcome Home Day, was a touching tribute to the sacrifices and contributions of these brave individuals.
Andy James, the event organizer, reflected on its history by stating, “I started hosting this event in 2013 at the Boys and Girls Club. We were shut down when COVID happened, and this one is the first we have been able to have.” The journey to this year’s gathering has been marked by challenges, including the pandemic-induced shutdowns, making this return even more significant.
Additionally, March 30 is recognized as Vietnam Veterans Welcome Home Day in Washington State. This day is dedicated to honoring and commemorating the service and sacrifices of Vietnam War veterans. It’s also a day to reflect on the challenges faced by Vietnam veterans upon their return home, as many did not receive the welcome they deserved due to widespread opposition to the war and significant social and political unrest, including protests and demonstrations.
Now, Tulalip’s event serves as an opportunity to express gratitude to those who served during this tumultuous period in history and to remember those who served their country and gave their lives in service to their country.
Of the 42,000 Native Americans who served their country during the Vietnam conflict, 90% were volunteers. Among them was Cy Hatch, a retired Gunnery Sergeant from the Tulalip Tribes, who served in the United States Marine Corps and held an E-7 ranking when he retired. This designation meant Cy held a leadership position within his regiment during his 20-year service from 1971 to 1991.
“I didn’t know what to do after I finished high school. I had a brother-in-law who was a Vietnam vet, and he told me to join the Marine Core; I did,” Cy said. “And I managed to make a career out of it, and I’m glad I made that choice. It’s a privilege and an honor to serve your country; I think more people trying to find their way in life should join. I’m thankful for this event; it means a lot for me to stand with my fellow military, be recognized, and enjoy our time together.”
James expressed gratitude for the support received, noting that Governor Jay Inslee signed the Welcome Home Vietnam Veterans Bill in 2013, which has garnered much excitement. “I am particularly thankful to the Tulalip Tribes for their generous offer to host the annual event at the Tulalip Gathering Hall.” As a former Private First Class in the United States Marine Corps during the end of the Vietnam War, James’s motivation for organizing the event is deeply personal. “This is my way of attempting to do something good. Some veterans passed that didn’t get a chance to experience this. I had to do it.” He emphasized the importance of the gathering, reflecting on feedback he’s received: “I have been told this event is so moving and touching, as most don’t get to experience the love our native people extend to its veterans and elders.”
As the event concluded, the camaraderie and appreciation remained palpable. Among heartfelt exchanges, there was a deep sense of gratitude for the opportunity to honor Vietnam veterans. This gathering fostered a sense of community and acceptance, providing solace for the travesties they endured and reaffirming their place within society.
The latest iteration of Tulalip’s Board of Directors became official on the morning of Saturday, April 6. The regularly scheduled Board meeting began promptly with the first order of business to swear-in the two highest vote getters from March’s general council election: Glen Gobin and Theresa Sheldon.
They replace Pat Contraro, who served one term, and Mel Sheldon, who served for nearly two decades. Mel chose not to run for re-election, while election results showed Pat received the ninth highest total.
After their oaths of office, Glen and Theresa were each given an opportunity to share a few words with those in the room and the many more tuning in on iAmTulalip.com
“In many ways it feels like I never left, but in other ways I feel kind of apprehensive for some reason, sitting back up here. I think it comes with the realization of all the responsibility that comes with the position,” admitted Glen. He had previously served as a Board of Director for 15+ years before taking some time off to spend with his family and enjoy the open waters, fishing. “The expectations, by all those who voted for me, are to bring positive change, bring traditional teachings back, and continue to move forward ensuring future generations have the same opportunities we have, if not more.
“I’m glad to be back to help, and look forward to being a part of this team as we work together in the best interest of the Tribe, to move us forward in a good way. Those are the teachings our elders had; it is always about the Tribe first and making sure our membership is secure. Also, I’d like to thank all those who voted for me and encouraged me step forward once more to help the Tribe,” he added.
Glen received the highest vote total during last month’s general election, surpassing all other candidates by a whopping 150 votes.
Theresa received the second highest vote total. She returns to the Board of Directors after previously missing out on a second term in 2017 by just nine votes. In her time away, she made a significant impact on Indian Country. First, she served as the Democratic National Committee’s Native American Political Director. Then she stepped down from that position to become Director of Policy and Advocacy for the National Native American Boarding School Healing Coalition.
After getting voted back on to the Board, and subsequently chosen to serve as Madam Secretary, Theresa shared, “I have to first start by expressing my gratitude and love to my babies. This General Council my son, two nephews and two nieces, plus other first-time voters, voted for me as they all voted for their very first time. Understanding I was chosen as the candidate for them, I will never take this responsibility for granted. I must now live up to their expectations.
“Protecting our right to vote, utilizing our right to vote, making sure we have easy access to voting, and voter protection is what I’ve been passionate about for years,” she continued. “I began voter engagement in 2007 and continued to work diligently for Native Vote at the county level, state level, and national level. Never would I have thought back then that my family’s babies at the time would grow up and cast their first vote for me.
“This is a reminder to all those who doubt the power of our younger generation that they have the capacity to create historical change. I am so grateful to our young people and want them to know I hear them and I see them demanding more from all of us; in demanding their language, in demanding their songs, and in demanding their culture. To everyone who supported me,t’igʷicid! To those who did not support me, I will work hard for you, too, as I want us all to succeed.”
For decades addiction, housing, child welfare, economic development, treaty rights and sovereignty have dominated Tulalip’s political discourse. Glen and Theresa both campaigned with an emphasis on their work ethics, diverse experience, and commitment to the people.
Concluding the induction of Tulalip’s newest leaders, Chairwoman Gobin said, “Both of them have served on Council before. They bring so much valuable leadership and knowledge to our team, and I’m excited to see how much we can get accomplished with as strong a Board as we have now.”
Hundreds hippity hopped to an early Easter Bash hosted at Tulalip’s Youth Center on Saturday, March 30. There were dyed eggs galore, coloring stations, plenty of Easter themed backdrops for pictures, and energy-inducing sugary treats. However, nothing topped the pure joy of children eager to meet their imaginary icon, the Easter bunny.
“The Easter Bash was a huge success,” said Sheena Oldham, one of the event coordinators. Serving as an activities specialist and proud mom of three kids, she was well versed in what a proper Easter party required. “I feel like our Bash brought a ton of people together. I’m proud of your Youth Services staff for all they did behind the scenes to make this happen, including wearing the bunny suit.
“The games, the food, the racing to get eggs, you could see how much everything meant to the kids who were running around endlessly from one activity to another,” she added. “Personally, my favorite aspect was seeing the competitive atmosphere from both parents and kids when it came time to the egg hunt. It was all smiles throughout and we saw so many people taking and sharing pictures of their happy kids. It’s events like this that really show how much our community appreciates getting together and having fun.”
The kids of Tulalip could not contain their excitement on the afternoon of Saturday, March 30. Many were literally jumping with joy when they spotted two life size characters strolling down their street. And though some of the kiddos were initially terrified, a few of them put on their brave faces and overcame their fear once they were gifted candy and toys from Sparky the Fire Dog and the Easter Bunny.
A year into the COVID-19 pandemic, a local nonprofit known as Together We’re Better organized the first Easter Run for the community of Tulalip in 2021. The event was an instant success and helped raise the spirits of the entire reservation. With gathering restrictions in place, With gathering restrictions in place, and while many folks were practicing social distancing, the Easter Run brought back a sense of normalcy to the community.
At the time, Together We’re Better Founder, Malory Simpson, shared, “It was important for us to do an event. Normally, we do a huge egg hunt and multiple communities come out to celebrate, but COVID has interfered with a lot of events this year. Together We’re Better is community-driven and 100% community funded, so seeing the kids cooped up and not having anything really planned for them, we wanted to do something for them and bring Easter to the community.”
Malory drew inspiration from the Tulalip Bay Fire Department’s yearly Santa Run, in which the Fire squad escorts Santa Claus throughout Tulalip neighborhoods while collecting donations for the Tulalip Church of God Food Bank. When Malory reached out to the fire station, a partnership was quickly forged between Together We’re Better and the Tulalip Bay Fire Department. Their firehouse dalmatian mascot, Sparky, also wanted in on the fun and volunteered to distribute candy alongside the Easter Bunny.
“When you see the kid’s faces light up, and their smiles are so big, ear to ear, when they see Easter Bunny and Sparky from across the road, it’s just the best,” expressed TBFD Captain John Carlson. “The interactions are always great; they all mean a lot to us. To make their day makes my day, because we see people on some of their worst days. I view the fire services as a family and the Tulalip community is a huge part of our family too. It’s so great to work together and make each other’s day better, it means a lot to us. It’s why we’re here.”
In addition to Sparky and the fire crew, two other local groups volunteer their time to hand out candy each year and are essential to the Easter Run – Aunties in Action and the Redrum First Nations Motorcycle Club. Every Easter Run, there are about 20 volunteers who walk numerous miles throughout the day to deliver treats and smiles to the homes of Tulalip children and their families.
The Easter Run was such a big hit within the community that Together We’re Better decided to make it an annual occasion. Now, it is something that many kids look forward to each spring. Kids are on the lookout, peering out their windows, and as soon as they catch a glimpse of the dynamic duo, they are outside waiting to greet them.The kids shower the bunny and fire dog with hugs and high fives, and graciously accept their gifts of sugar and plastic novelties. The parents are equally as excited as the youngins, and they are sure to have their camera apps open and ready to snap a shot of their babies with the two loveable characters.
Said Malory, “Giving back to the community always feels really good. This is all community effort; it makes my heart happy to see the community coming together to take care of each other. I just love it. The smiles and laughter make you feel really good inside. Just seeing the kids get excited is one of the best things about the event. It’s pretty fun to see all of their reactions and see how happy the kids are to spend some time with the Easter Bunny and Sparky.”
This year, the Tulalip Bay Fire Department expanded its district to include homes located in the Quil Ceda Creek neighborhood developments. As the Easter Run mirrors the fire department’s service area, this meant that the Easter Bunny and Sparky would see some new faces this year. And that they did. With the addition of three neighborhoods, Sparky and the bunny made dozens of new friends of all ages, from newborns to elders, as they spent a generous portion of their day getting to know the kids and families on the Quil.
In total, the Easter Bunny and Sparky visited 10 neighborhoods on the reservation, walked over 14,000 steps (≈ 7 miles), and brought smiles to over 100 kids during the 2024 Easter Run.
Natosha Gobin, the 2024 Easter Run event planner, stated, “The Together We’re Better events are so much fun to participate in because it is community driven. For the Easter Run, a lot of community members look forward to stuffing eggs, buying snacks, and doing whatever they can to help. It’s nice to take time and visit with the families and go to all the different developments. This year, we were excited to add the Quil developments as well. It feels so good to be with the community for a positive reason. And to see how much this means to the family as a whole – it just feels really good to be a part of something that is putting smiles on their faces.”
If you are looking to get more involved with the community, Together We’re Better is always accepting donations, whether that is goods, funds, or your personal volunteered time. For more information, please contact Natosha Gobin at (425) 319-4416 or Malory Simpson at (425) 905-9137.
Within our shared Tulalip/Marysville community are organizations staffed with dedicated professionals who prioritize health and well-being. These professionals are well aware that in order to have a culturally vibrant community, the individuals within the community, child to elder, must be physically, mentally, and spiritually healthy.
Recognizing this, medical establishments like Symmetria Integrative Medical play a pivotal role not only in providing healthcare services but also in creating community well-being through philanthropic efforts, such as making a large financial donation to our reservation’s Boys & Girls Club. Their recent $10,000 contribution extends the impact of healthcare providers beyond the confines of clinics and injected pure excitement and goodwill into the heart of the community.
That excitement is best demonstrated by reliving a super cute moment shared by all those within earshot of two jubilant youth preparing to take a picture with the gigantic cardboard check.
“We got $1,000!”
“Nu-huh! We got $10,000!”
“Ten-thousand?! We’re rich!”
Then in unison and completely unprompted, they shouted “Yay!’
That moment may have only lasted mere seconds, but the feels it generated, much like the $10,000 worth of support and supplies to be purchased, can leave a long-lasting impact for those for whom the local Club is a sanctuary.
“It’s important we share moments like this with the kids because its important they understand that people really care for them,” shared Tulalip Club director Shawn Sanchey. “Our Club kids are supported by those on and off the Rez and by those who aren’t here everyday with them, but who still contribute in a significant way that helps us develop programs and services which allow our kids to grow in a good way. Ultimately, I feel we can do and should do a better job as adults to help our kids understand there are people and even entire organizations out there who truly care about them and care about their successes.”
Our local boys & girls club offers a comprehensive collection of programs designed to promote the holistic development of Tulalip’s next generation. According to Grandma Diane’s latest estimations, the Club serves over 275 kids daily. From biddy ball everything to culturally relevant arts and crafts to the tech-driven future that is here now, the Club’s programs address critical areas of development for each one of those 275 kids. Each one of them has access to range of services that include education assistance, athletic support, and something as seemingly simple as access to hot meals and nutritional snacks.
“I grew up in Marysville. I went to Marysville Pilchuck High School, and I’ve always viewed the citizens of Tulalip as part of my community,” said Dr. Baljinder Gill, Symmetria president and operations director. “Now that I’m in the position of running a community-based clinic, I want to give back in way that now only supports the Tribe, but also builds upon the relationship of trust for its membership.
“The Tulalip Boys & Girls Club is so advanced, and being here today I can feel just how much trust the kids have for the staff and in turn how much the staff really cares for the kids,” added Dr. Gill. “This environment is what my clinic strives to emulate with its patient/provider relationship. It’s worth mentioning that a few years ago, the Tulalip Board of Directors passed a resolution that gives Tulalip tribal members coverage in our office. Plus, anyone who work with the Tribe and has HMA coverage, depending on the plan level they have, almost all our services are covered at 100%.”
By donating such a large sum to our Boys & Girls Club, Dr. Gill and his Symmetria clinic are doing much more than providing financial support, they are investing in the health and future of the community. To quote those previously mentioned Club kids, “Yay!”
Exciting things are happening for the Tulalip Bay Fire Department in the terms of expansion. In preparation for their new fire station, 15 firefighters and EMTs were sworn in on Thursday, March 21. Family and friends gathered to commemorate the occasion, that symbolized Tulalip’s unwavering commitment to delivering essential medical and fire services to its community.
For years, the area of Tulalip closest to town fell under Marysville’s jurisdiction, but the Tulalip tribes have installed a temporary fire station on 27th Avenue near the Tulalip Resort Casino. Eventually, a permanent location will be on 88th Street, next to the Tulalip Bingo Hall.
“This means a great deal for the Tulalip people,” remarked Board member Hazen Shopbell. “Implementing the new fire station at Quil Ceda Boulevard helps Tulalip exercise its sovereign rights. It also allows us to collect tax revenue previously going to Marysville.”
Taking the proper steps to install the new station was an enormous undertaking. “We’ve come a long way,” stated Fire Chairman David Sherman. “I can’t think of a better group or way for the Tulalip Bay Fire Department to embark on this next chapter.
Battalion Chief Bronson Smith, boasting 14 years of firefighting experience, discussed his responsibility for day-to-day staffing and emergency response, highlighting the department’s progress in acquiring paramedic capabilities. “When I first started, we didn’t have a paramedic, and we relied on Marysville. Since then, we’ve built up our capabilities, reducing response times from 15 minutes to three minutes.”
Chief Smith emphasizes the longstanding aspiration to provide comprehensive services to the entire tribal community. Viewing the new fire station as a pivotal step toward this goal, he affirmed the department’s commitment to exceeding standards and ensuring everyone feels heard and supported. Looking ahead, Smith expressed eagerness to mentor the next generation of firefighters, reaffirming his dedication to serving the tribe with honor and excellence.
Smith added, “We offer ride-along programs and have started a cadet program at Heritage High School. That’s where it starts. We have them come to the station a couple of days a week during the school year, where they get a chance to roll hose, learn how to throw gear and learn how to put the air pack on. I don’t want to keep my skills to myself; I want to teach others how to save lives. If anyone is interested, all they need to do is reach out to the fire department, and we can get you going.”
Contact the Tulalip Bay Fire Department at 360-659-2416 to learn more.
Devoted educators of Marysville School District’s Indian Ed. Department, Quil Ceda Elementary and Hibulb Cultural Center are determined to make education great again. MEGA, if you will.
The united effort is intended to raise cultural awareness, fulfilling a key aspect of the late John McCoy’s since time immemorial legislation, while creating an inspirational atmosphere at the intersection of learning and fun.
Quil Ceda 4th graders were ushered into Hibulb’s makeshift longhouse where they were welcomed by members of the Indian Ed. Department, which included Matt Remle, Terrance Sabbas, Zee Jimicum, Doug Salinas, Tony Hatch and Ian LaFontaine on this particular Monday. After they each gave a brief introduction of their family background and tenure within education, they stood poised with handmade drums and sang several songs. They were followed by a 15-minute video that gave a board leader view of the Tulalip Tribes history.
Then, the real fun began. Longhouse doors were opened and students were each given a Raven’s Scavenger Hunt to complete while exploring the cultural center’s history-filled exhibits.
“I think it’s so important that we provide opportunities to educate all children here at Hibulb. By sharing our culture and history openly and authentically, we help bridge gaps in cultural understanding that Tulalips and non-Tulalips may have,” explained 23-year-old group tour specialist Courtnie Reyes.
“I went to Quil Ceda as a child and, back then, our cultural education was more based on the broader sense of what it means to be a Native American. We learned of historical figures from other tribes, but I don’t really remember any being Tulalip specific,” she continued. “I’ve always wanted to be an educator, so today I’m proud to be a part of sharing the stories of so many important Tulalip figures who laid the foundation we’ve built so much upon.”
Each aspect of the Raven’s Scavenger Hunt is meticulously designed to captivate students’ imagination while they are immersed in various aspects of Tulalip history; from fishing and hunting and gathering practices to the importance of harvesting cedar and its many practical applications to central tenants of being canoe people and children of the salmon.
Present to assist chaperone the children as they navigated their scavenger hunt was members of the Marysville Pilchuck high school’s United Native Club. Tenth grader Monet Clemons serves as vice president and says collaborative education efforts at Hibulb is something she wished were possible when she were in elementary, but is so excited to see now widely available for local students.
“When I was younger, I didn’t really have this kind of hands-on experience with culture. I was told I was Native, but never got to learn what it meant to be Tulalip,” Monet shared after helping a group of students answer the question ‘What is the most innermost layer of the cedar tree called?’. “Now, to be here and help the next generation learn what it means to be Tulalip and all the ways we embrace culture is pretty cool.
“Bringing elementary-aged kids here is a good age because they are so curious to learn and we can see just how excited they are to see key parts of our culture, like the canoes and fishing village. Being here and experiencing everything the museum has to offer opens their world more and lets them view our culture in a real meaningful way versus just reading about it in a textbook,” she added.
The meaningfulness went even deeper for several young Tulalip students who, while viewing the veterans wall, suddenly found themselves overcome with excitement staring at a much younger version of their grandpa Ray Fryberg. They were quick to tell anyone within ear shot, “That’s my grandpa!” while pointing to the portrait of the Vietnam veteran.
Following completion of the scavenger hunt, the children gathered one more time in the longhouse. This time, they were divided up into dancers, singers and drummers. They quickly learned the Spokane Happy Dance and eagerly performed it to perfection to the joy of their onlooking educators. The moment served as a living embodiment of what it truly means to make education great again.
The entryway of the Betty J. Early Learning Academy was bustling on the afternoon of March 21. Laughter echoed throughout the spacious lobby and the spirits were high as families of the academy participated in TELA’s mini health fair.
Held on an annual basis, the mini health fair has been a successful event for the academy over the years. The event has helped their students and families connect with local programs and Tribal departments, so they can in turn access a multitude of information, resources, and services.
In total there were 15 stations at this year’s mini health fair including the Tulalip Family Haven program, the Karen I. Fryberg Health Clinic, SNAP-Ed, the Tulalip Lushootseed department, Tulalip Emergency Management, and the Tulalip police and fire departments as well. TELA also had representatives of the school in attendance including their mental health specialists and members of their staff who helped inform the families about the dangers of tobacco use and also to update student’s ID cards and paperwork.
The two-hour event began at 2:30 p.m., around TELA’s pick-up time, and parents received a passport sheet as they entered the building. After they received a signature at each of the resource tables, they were entered into a raffle which featured grand prize items like swimming pools, a Radio Flyer wagon, and a Graco 3-in-1 car seat.
The event was especially exciting for the kiddos, and they had a blast visiting with their teachers and a few familiar faces from the community. There were plenty of fun swag items that the students collected from each station such as coloring books, stickers, first aid kits, and a variety of toys.
Healthy habits were promoted at the fair and the kids were treated to refreshing fruit smoothies from SNAP-ED, tasty pasta from the Lushootseed Department, and toothbrushes from the dental team at the health clinic. And of course, it is always exciting for the youth to engage with the first responder teams of Tulalip. At the Tulalip Bay Fire Department table, the kids chose between black and pink helmets to add to their outfit of the day. And at TPD’s table, they received police badge stickers, which they were quick to place on their t-shirts and proudly wear for the remainder of their day.
Said TELA Family Engagement Coordinator, Absyde Dacoscos, “The main objective of the mini health fair is getting resources to our families. We want them to know what’s available to them here on the reservation, but also in Snohomish County and Marysville. I love that the kids can recognize people outside of TELA and are making great connections in the community today. That’s what it’s all about, to know they are safe in their community and know who’s within their community.”
It was a fantastic soiree on Saturday March 24, as over 100 people gathered at the Orca Ballroom of the Tulalip Resort Casino for a night of healing through comedic relief. Held once a year in observance of National Problem Gambling Awareness Month, this dinner is organized to not only bring attention to the prevalence of gambling addiction on the reservation and its surrounding municipalities, but also to build up the local recovery community and celebrate them for overcoming numerous plights while on their journey to a gambling and/or substance free lifestyle.
For the past decade, the Tulalip Problem Gambling program has actively participated in a nationwide initiative known as National Problem Gambling Awareness month. Occurring every March, during the season of bracket clashing known as March Madness, the Problem Gambling Program raises awareness about the compulsive gambling disease by hosting fun, engaging, informative, and impactful gatherings in the community all throughout the awareness month.
The dangerous and often silent habit affects the Native American community at a much higher rate than other ethnicities. A 2019 study by the National Institute on Alcohol and Related Conditions showed that 2.3% of the Indigenous population in America are battling a gambling addiction. Which is at an alarming rate, considering other ethnicities experience compulsive gambling at an average of 1% of their respective populations. Although that statistic is five years old, it is the most current and up-to-date research, however, many sources expect to see a major increase in that number following the global pandemic.
In years past, the Tulalip Problem Gambling program brought in Native stars for their annual get together and featured the likes of comedians Toni Jo Hall, Mitch Factor, and Kasey ‘Rezzalicious’ Nicholson, as well as Grammy Award winner, Star Nayea. This year, Kasey Nicholson returned and was on MC duties for the afternoon.
Rezzalicious shared, “Strive to become better than you were yesterday. That’s something I always try to do because I know that I’m going to fail. I’m going to continue to fall. But each time I get up, I’m going to be stronger, more resilient. Each time I get up, I’m going to look at that scar and know I went through that hard time. I have the scar, this healing to show it didn’t disable me, it empowered me to become better. So keep going. No matter how many times you fail. If you want to recover from problem gambling, keep going. It’s going to get easier; you’re going to make it. All the support that we have here today is beautiful.”
Native Comedian and Actor, Tatanka Means, of Reservation Dogs, Echo, and Killers of the Flower Moon fame, was this year’s headliner for the Problem Gambling Awareness dinner. Following a blessing from Tulalip tribal member, Natosha Gobin, Tatanka took the stage and had the crowd in stiches by combining his art of storytelling and Native humor. He also announced that he has two Netflix shows on the horizon including Native horror flick, The Windigo, as well as Ark: The Animated Series.
The night before the dinner, Tatanka spent some time with the Tulalip Youth Council at the Hibulb Cultural Center. Many members of the youth council attended the Problem Gambling Awareness dinner to watch Tatanka’s stand up and also show support to the recovery community.
Said Youth Council member, Faith Valencia, “Last night we honored the Tulalip Youth Council and welcomed Tatanka to Tulalip for the first time. We got to ask him some questions and we played a game together. It was really nice seeing him on stage today, he’s a really cool person and really funny too. It was important for us to come show our support and let everyone know that the youth is listening and watching them. It’s not just the adults who are proud of them, it’s the kids watching them and seeing ‘oh yeah, maybe my uncle can recover’ or ‘maybe I can get them into a group’.”
Two individuals who had a successful experience with the Tulalip Problem Gambling took to the stage to share their stories, including local community member Scott, who is non-tribal, and Matthew Warbonnet of the Oglala Sioux Nation.
Scott stated, ““I started gambling in casinos as soon as I turned 18. I lost a lot while gambling. Not just money. I lost my family, my soul, my health, my friendships, my marriage. In 2020 I started gambling on a really high level. I was gambling about $500 almost every single day. In 2021, I was diagnosed with lymphoma. I got a severance back-pay check and I gambled away every single penny in less than five months. Later on that year, I was awarded 100% social security disability. It took me less than a month to go through $28,000 and I didn’t have a thing to show for it. My wife told me I had a problem, and it was time for me to face my fears and to address my issues. She called Sarah Sense Wilson at the Tulalip Problem Gambling program, and I had an evaluation. On February 18, 2023, I went to my first GA meeting.”
He went on to thank each person who helped him through his time of struggle, including many people facing similar tribulations who he met through the Problem Gambling program.
Scott is now 13 months sober from gambling addiction, thanks to a personalized plan that the Problem Gambling program put together on his behalf. Upon teaming up with of handful of others in the recovery community, Scott helped organize the first Gamblers Anonymous meeting on the Tulalip reservation in over 15 years. And with assistance from the Problem Gambling Program and the Tulalip Recovery Resource Center, they have continued hosting weekly GA meetings every Thursday at noon. This is a big accomplishment and is well needed for locals to learn and share about their experience with the gambling disease, in a safe and welcoming environment.
Matthew, an Indian boarding school survivor, spoke about how the Tulalip Problem Gambling program has helped him navigate his trauma, that resulted in problem gambling. The years he endured at the St. Francis Indian School in South Dakota – a Catholic institution where students were subjected to a multitude of mental and physical abuses throughout their duration at the school were traumatic.
“You might say that I’m an addict from the treatment they gave us at the boarding schools,” Matthew expressed. “I want to tell you that I’m proud of myself for seeking this help. It’s not an easy thing to ask for that help. I want to thank the Tulalip Tribes and the Problem Gambling program. We have these struggles, we have this sorrow, we have this pain, but there’s one thing I do know, I could always count on the Native community wherever I was. There’s a shared family, love, and acknowledgement of who we are.
“The help is there for the taking and asking. And if you know anybody who needs that help, please let them know where we got our help. I’m not ashamed to say that I have a problem with gambling. I’m not ashamed to say that I needed help and I asked for it. And I will continue to ask for that help, and I encourage everybody to do that.”
Natosha returned to the stage to share a traditional Tulalip story in Lushootseed. Utilizing the call and response technique, Natosha told the story of Lady Louse, and had the entire ballroom speaking her ancestral language as they shared the story together, line for line. Leaving each person to interpret what the story means to them, Natosha stated, “Sometimes we all feel alone, even when we’re surrounded by a bunch of people who love us. We need to try to find compassion for each other. If you see someone who needs it, give them a hug, and say hello, because you can be that person to take them out of that space.”
The evening concluded with what has now become a yearly tradition at the Problem Gambling Awareness dinner – the recovery countdown. Rezzalicious started the countdown at 50 years clean and asked each person in recovery to stand when he called the amount years they have attained their sobriety goal. More than half the room was standing by the time he reached one month clean, an inspiring and beautiful sight to see.
The Problem Gambling Awareness Month dinner was once again a hit for the community of Tulalip. Due to Tatanka’s busy schedule, the event time was changed from its original start time of 6:00 pm to 1:00 pm during the week leading up to the dinner. However, many people still showed up to support and uplift those individuals working to overcome their addiction.
“I thought today was overwhelmingly successful given the changes that were made last minute with our earlier time,” said Tulalip Problem Gambling Program Coordinator, Sarah Sense Wilson. “I think that the keynote was hilarious. He’s a big headliner and people came out to see him. And that was great because they got to learn throughout our presentation about gambling addiction.”
She continued, “It was especially nice to have Matthew Warbonnet share his experience and about his gambling addiction. And our GA presenter shared that they had a year in recovery, and that they’re also part of our program. The special time devoted to recognizing the Tulalip Recovery Resource Center, I thought that was really important because they sponsor and host the GA meetings. Our community deserves to have a recovery support program too, not just treatment. It was wonderful to see the multigenerational attendance and that people laughed, enjoyed themselves, ate good food. And that’s what we wanted most, people to come together, share, laugh, and have a good time.”
If you or someone you love is dealing with a gambling addiction, or if you would like to find out more information about the Problem Gambling program, please contact (360) 716-4304.
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Problem Gambling Awareness
By Sarah Sense Wilson
Informed decisions make you a winner. Healthy choices ensure your wellbeing and strengthens your family and community. Our future depends on the choices you make today.
Types of Gambling
Video Game Betting/Skins or Treasure Troves
Slahal/Stick games
Sports Betting
Bingo
Scratch Tickets
50/50
Dice
Internet Gambling
Raffles
Gambling Facts
Our Problem Gambling Program is about reclaiming health, wellness, and relationships.
Tulalip Problem Gambling Program is free treatment, referrals, counseling, groups, and family therapy.
Tulalip Tribes Problem Gambling Program is comprehensive, culturally responsive and designed to be tailored for each person seeking support.
Problem Gambling is also referred to as Gambling Disorder, Compulsive Gambling, Addictive Gambling, and Pathological Gambling, or People experiencing Gambling Problems.
Data: 1-3% of Washingtonians are classified as Problem Gamblers.
We could fill the Seahawks Stadium (Lumen Field) to capacity 4x to fit all problem gamblers in our state.
Up to 92% of problem gamblers experience suicidal ideation, and up to 40% attempt suicide.
Sadly, only one 1-in-10 problem gamblers seek professional help.
