Tulalip Bay Fire Department Receives 2019 Stewardship Award from the Washington State Auditor

Tulalip, Wash. – The Tulalip Bay Fire Department (also known as Snohomish County Fire District 15) received the Washington State Auditor’s 2019 Stewardship Award. Only four fire districts have received the award in the last five years. 

The award was presented for outstanding accomplishment in accountability, transparency and good stewardship of public resources. The Stewardship Award is given to local governments who show exemplary financial management practices. 

State Auditor Pat McCarthy said in a recent letter, “The District has shown dedication to transparency on its path to improving operations.” She continues, “As stewards of the public’s trust, it is incumbent on all governments to promote accountability and transparency.”

Fire Chief Ryan Shaughnessy said, “It is an honor to receive this award and reflects the hard work we have done at the Tulalip Bay Fire Department to be open and transparent in our financial practices.” 

A copy of the award and the State Auditor’s letter can be found on the Fire Department’s website at

www.firedistrict15.org.

Judy Lynette Wayne (1991 – 2019)

May 28, 1991 – November 6, 2019 Judy Lynette Wayne was born May 28, 1991 to William “Tonner” Wayne and Susan Sicade Jones, in Auburn, WA. She resided in Tulalip, WA where she was helped raised by dad, Jeffery Jones, Sr. She then lived in Seattle, WA off and on.

Judy is survived by her significant other, Anthony Bob; and daughter, Laycei Star Bob; as well as her siblings, Crystal and Michael Monger, Roseann and Thomas Reeves, Edward and Ada Wayne, Michael Jones, Jeffery Jones Jr., and Baby Sister, Emily Jones; her grandparents, Leonard “Buddy” Wayne, Jr., Rose Napoleon Sicade, and Mildred “Millie” Jones; and her great uncle, Marvin Napoleon; as well as numerous aunties, uncles nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Judy will be joining the other side with her parents, William “Tonner” Wayne and Susan Sicade Jones; grandma, Judy Wayne; grandpa, Henry “Hank” Sicade; grandpa, Alpheus “Gunny” Jones Sr.; auntie, Susan Wayne; uncles, Leonord “Layback” Wayne III, Robert Michael Wayne Sr., and Stanton Sicade Sr.; cousin, Dontae Jones; and special friend and sister, Chenoeh Prez-Bill; great grandparents; and numerous great aunties, uncles, and cousins.

In her short 28 years of life she enjoyed spending time with family and friends celebrating birthdays and holidays. She loved watching her wrestling and binge- watching her shows as well as cheering for her Seattle Seahawks. She loved being a homemaker, listening to music, traveling to church, sitting by the water, collecting beautiful rocks, and she loved animals. Judy owned 2 beard dragons, a dog, and a cat who gave her litters of kittens. She would go where her spirt would lead her. She was a very outgoing and loving person with a big heart who enjoyed life. She touched many people and always greeted you with a smile and a hug. Judy went to be with the Lord the evening of November 6, 2019 in Seattle, WA. She will be missed by her family, friends, and anyone who met her in their life.

Visitation will be held Wednesday, November 13, 2019 at 1:00 p.m. at Schaefer-Shipman Funeral Home with an Interfaith service to follow at the Tulalip Gym at 6:00 p.m. Funeral Services will be held Thursday, November 14, 2019 at 10:00 a.m. at the Tulalip Gym, with burial to follow at Mission Beach Cemetery.

Stanley Gale Jones Sr. (1926 – 2019)

Chief “SCHO-HALLEM” July 10, 1926 – November 5, 2019 Stan Jones Sr., 93, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, November 5, 2019 in the comfort of his home on the Tulalip Reservation. He continued on his journey with his loving family by his side.

Born on July 10, 1926 in Monroe, WA to George Culver Jones and Juanita Jones (Giddings), Stan moved back permanently to his ancestral homelands at 3-years-old, shortly after his mother passed away. His father remarried and Stan’s childhood home blossomed to include 17 siblings. Like many Native households of the time, they grew up poor, often not having running water or electricity, but through the struggles Stan and his family persevered. At just 17-years-old, he dedicated himself to a cause much larger than himself and enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps. He proudly served two years in Platoon 770 and saw action along the frontlines of World War II. Stan often recalled his time in the tank battalion occupying Nagasaki, Japan immediately after the Atomic Bomb was dropped.

After being honorably discharged from the military in August 1946, he met his soul mate, JoAnn Barrie. In 1950, the pair eloped in a private ceremony in Tacoma, WA and have been happily married for 69 years. They have five children: Jeanne McClain, Stanley “Sonny” Jones Jr. (deceased), Gayle Jones, Teri (Billy) Gobin and Randy Jones. Scho-Hallem’s family tree grew to include 14 grandchildren, 27 great-grandchildren and many more great-great-grandchildren.

A lifetime of dedication and commitment to his tribe and community, Stan served as the longest running Tulalip Tribes board member in history. He joined the Tulalip Board in 1966, serving 44 consecutive years to the greater interest of his people. For more than half of that time, 26 years to be exact, Scho-Hallem served as Chairman. His wisdom, integrity, passion and sincere caring for the future of his people and Tribe resulted in his being voted into office for a remarkable 15 terms. Some of his accomplishments include: working on the Boldt Decision, which awarded Washington State tribes half of the state’s salmon catch. He was appointed the first Chairman of a National Task Force on Indian Gaming, and was instrumental in the negotiation of the first Tribal-State casino compact. Prior to being elected to the Board, Stan worked in logging, commercial fishing, fuel delivery, and as an electrician. He retired from the Board of Directors after 44 years, serving his last day in office on April 3, 2010. Only days later, on April 7 in San Diego, Stan was honored with the prestigious “Chairman’s Lifetime Achievement Award” at the National Indian Gaming Association’s annual convention. Over his lengthy career he remained committed to seeing Tulalip thrive, while receiving many awards for his innovative leadership.

Forever a leader, Scho-Hallem’s family said in his final moments he was still concerned with the well-being of the Tribe and was at peace knowing his Tulalip people are “staying the course”. Stan is preceded in death by his parents, George and Juanita Jones; son, Stan “Sonny” Jones Jr.; siblings: Jack Jones, Gloria St. Germaine, George Jones Jr., LaVerne Jones, Caroline “Uppy” Thornberry, Alpheus “Gunny” Jones, Lynn “Stomper” Jones, William Jones, and Chuckie Jones.

He is survived by his siblings: Virginia Carpenter, Dawn Simpson, Joy Lacy, Dale (Barb) Jones, Marvin Jones, Richard (Toby) Jones, and Delmer Jones; grandchildren: Mike, Shawn, Kenny, Laurie, Michelle, Stanley “Skipper” (Krystle), McKenna, Auri, Kingson, Tyee, Teresa (Jeff), Mika, Jordan, Tashena, Faith, Bow, Ryan, Mario, Nina, Teonie, Colten, Leora, Lyndsey, Kayla, and Nate; four dedicated caregivers: Dee, Maria, granddaughter, Tashena and niece, Rossane; and his always faithful canine companion, Champ. He also leaves behind numerous extended family members and a tribal community that he loved so dearly.

Funeral services are scheduled for Monday, November 11, 2019 at 5:30 p.m. and continuing on Tuesday, November 12, 2019 at 10:00 a.m. (both services located inside the Tulalip Resort’s Orca Ballroom). Burial at Mission Beach Cemetery with a dinner to follow at the Tulalip Youth Center’s gym.

Sophia Henry (1987 – 2019)

April 25, 1987 – October 30, 2019 Sophia S. Henry, 32, passed away October 30, 2019 in Lummi, WA. Sophia was a former Sedro-Woolley, WA resident and an enrolled Tulalip Tribal member. She was born April 25, 1987 in Bellingham, WA to Randall Henry and Loralei Boome. She enjoyed crocheting, beading, listening to music and spending time with her nieces. Sophia touched the lives of many and will be greatly missed in various communities including: Lummi, Upper Skagit and Tulalip. Sophia will be remembered for her beautiful smile and caring heart. She is survived by her three beautiful children, Joshua Wilbur Henry, Loralei Henry and Lawrence Henry; her sister, Mary Henry; and nieces, Raven Revey and Aiyana Gorham; her grandmother, Ruby Boome; and her good friend, Barry Wilson; as well as aunts, uncles and adopted family. Sophia is preceded in death by her mother, Loralei Boome; father, Randall Henry; nephew, Johnny Revey Jr.; fiancé, Joshua Wilbur; grandfather, John Henry I; grandmother, Barbara Henry; and grandfather, Lawrence Boome Jr. Visitation will be held Thursday, November 7, 2019 at 1:00 p.m. at Schaefer-Shipman Funeral Home with a Celebration of Life to follow at 6:00 p.m. at the Tulalip Gym. Funeral Services will be held Friday, November 8, 2019 at 10:00 a.m. at the Tulalip Gym with burial to follow at the Mission Beach Cemetery.

‘Spirit of Reciprocity’ felt at Potlatch Fund gala

By Micheal Rios, Tulalip News

Potlatch Fund is a Native-led nonprofit that provides grants and leadership development in tribal communities throughout Washington, Oregon, Idaho and Montana. The Fund’s driving mission is to expand philanthropy within Northwest tribal nations by inspiring and building upon the tradition of giving. From potlachs to powwows, building community and sharing wealth has always been a part of Native peoples’ way of life.

On November 2, the Potlatch Fund held its highly anticipated annual fundraising gala. With venue location and theme changing every year, the one constant the gala promises is attendees will  be inspired and given ample opportunity to show their generous side. This year the location was Little Creek Casino Resort and the theme: ‘Spirit of Reciprocity’. 

“This gala brings together people of many different tribes, from many different communities, from many different organizations, and unites us in the common goal to raise money to help us meet the needs of Northwest Indian Country,” said Dr. Charlotte Coté, Potlach Fund board president. “Our theme ‘Spirit of Reciprocity’ really captures the essence of our organization’s mission to expand philanthropy for and among tribal communities, while empowering community leaders with the tools they need to succeed.

“We have gathered here in the spirit of the potlatch tradition with the sharing of song, dance, art, and of course delicious food,” Dr. Coté continued. “The support we’re so thankful to receive allows us to keep alive the spirit of reciprocity. I raise my hands to everyone who joins our Potlatch Fund canoe and helps us paddle to our fundraising goals.”

Since 2005, Potlatch Fund has re-granted over $4.5 million in the support of tribes, tribal nonprofits, Native-led nonprofits, Native artists, and Native initiatives in their four-state service area. Through a focus on youth development, community building, language preservation, education and Native arts, they are building a richer future for all that they serve.

The Potlatch Fund’s annual gala is their major fundraising event and brings together people from a variety of neighboring tribes, organizations, corporations and communities. Close to 20 Washington State tribes were listed as event sponsors, including the Tulalip Tribes listed as a Raven-level sponsor.

At the gala, Native community impact makers are given a chance to share their plans for the future and learn how other like-minded individuals and groups are striving to make a positive difference for the benefit of Indian Country. This is an invaluable benefit for up-and-coming leaders and organizations who can sometimes struggle to get their message broadcast to larger audiences. 

“At Potlatch Fund, we recognize the importance of bringing people together to share our stories and experiences,” added Dr. Coté. “Our intent is to generate deeper connections and conversation among Native professionals and our extended community. All are welcome to attend and build relationships with our Native communities.” 

A dynamic and truly benevolent event that brought together tribal leadership, representatives and impact makers from all across the Pacific Northwest, the fundraising gala also had additional benefits for guests. In a setting befitting those who strive to make the world a better place than they found it, the mostly Native gathering took in the sights of Squaxin Island Tribe drummers and dancers, heard the enchanting violin sounds of Lummi musician Swil Kanim, and perused a silent auction filled with unique Native art.

“Potlatch Gala is the most fun event of the year,” shared Suquamish Foundation Director, Robin Little Wing Sigo. “Not only does it raise money, but it raises spirits, energy and excitement. Everyone gets to get dressed up and connect with people they may only see once or twice a year. Also, so many incredible artists donate their artwork for the silent auction that gives us a good opportunity to purchase wonderful Native bling.”

 “We lovingly call it ‘Native Prom’ because it’s one of the last gatherings of the year and we all get dressed up to celebrate being Native,” added Colleen Chalmers, program manager at Chief Seattle Club. “There is representation from so many different tribes yet we’re here as an Indigenous community proving we are still here and we are thriving.”

The ‘Spirit of Reciprocity’ gala provided the opportunity to share culture through song and dance performances, to support and celebrate Native art and artists, and to assist Potlatch Fund with its fundraising efforts as it continues to undertake important work throughout Northwest Indian Country. The evening centered on generosity and was a success as pre-   and post-dinner networking receptions brought people together to create future impact opportunities, while close to $60,000 was fundraised that will ultimately go to where it’s needed most, Native communities. 

Raising awareness for Diabetes prevention

By Kalvin Valdillez, Tulalip News

A delightful aroma filled the air around the Karen I. Fryberg Health Clinic on November 5. Near the clinic’s entrance was Indigenous Chef Britt Reed, sizzling up a stir-fry mixture of cabbage, onion, celery and chicken. The chef displayed her outdoor culinary skills over a propane flame, and the large wok of fried veggies and protein garnered plenty of interest from clinic patients and those living with Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes in attendance of the Diabetes Care and Prevention program’s yearly Diabetes Day. 

Occurring during National Diabetes Month, the event aims to educate and raise awareness about diabetes, while having a good time with the local community, through healthy tips, resources and support to those diagnosed with the disease. 

“We like to take this day to spend some time with our patients, and maybe meet some new patients, to see how they are doing because it’s the end of the year,” explained Miguel Arteaga, Tulalip Health Clinic RN and Diabetes Educator. “Diabetes is exploding across the world, it’s always been a problem for the U.S. and particularly with minority people. At Tulalip, we want to present the community with the best information there is to help prevent diabetes.”

The six-hour event allowed attendees to get acquainted with fellow diabetics and build a strong sense of community as well as hear a number of presentations by local organizations and businesses. Event goers were served two meals and an assortment of tasty snacks throughout the day, learned of new foods and recipes and how to prepare well-balanced meals to manage their diabetes more efficiently. 

“65% of patients with prediabetes can prevent the onset or delay diabetes from occurring by simply losing 7% of their body fat, just by making changes in their food choices,” said Diabetes Program Coordinator, Veronica ‘Roni’ Leahy. “Instead of ‘changing’, we talk more about shifting. Shifting from one food to another, something that is of equal value, is still tasty to you, but is a healthier version of it. We gave away bags of food to the people who came to watch Britt’s cooking demonstration. I think that’s a key component, bringing healthy foods to tribal homes that they can cook themselves. Eating healthy can be fun and simple.”

This year, the Diabetes Prevention and Care team put a little extra emphasis on prevention. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), diabetes is still on the rise throughout reservations nationwide. Their research has found that over 16% of the Indigenous population has been diagnosed with diabetes, nearly double the amount of the white American population. Meaning almost one in every six Native peoples are living with that diagnosis. These staggering statistics prompted the Tulalip Wisdom Warriors to ask the Diabetes program to focus on providing prevention education for the younger generations. 

“I’m a Wisdom Warrior and having diabetes, naturally I want to learn as much as I can to take care of myself,” said Tribal Elder, Hermalee Coando. “Unfortunately, a lot of our tribal people have excessive weight and a lot of times we are fed, and often choose to eat, stuff that’s not good for us. There’s too many sweets available. The more education we have about what we drink and consume and how it damages our body, the more we know how we can prevent it. And the younger we start teaching the youth, the better. Our kids should continue to listen to the elders about our foods and take the wisdom we have to utilize it in your daily life. Don’t glorify candy, it’s better in the long run to have something healthy for you.”

The everyday bustle can often weigh us down and at times it is much easier to grab a quick and convenient bite at the end of a long day. But taking a little extra time to meal prep at the beginning of a busy week can assist diabetics, and even non-diabetics, in staying true to their diet, help regulate their blood sugar levels, and reach and maintain their personal goals. 

Another equally important area the on-the-go diabetic must consider is self-care, which includes exercise and mindful practices such as meditation, yoga and tai-chi. For Diabetes Day, Roni led two seated tai-chi sessions, which is proven to help promote blood flow, muscular strength, flexibility, heart and lung function, and also reduce stress. In fact, the art of tai-chi is a highly recommended exercise for all diabetics. Because Natives are at such a heightened risk to be diagnosed with the disease, it’s important to find a way to incorporate these practices into daily routines. 

“I’m a young Tribal member and was diagnosed with diabetes a couple years ago,” said Mike Pablo. “I was always healthy and active when I was younger. And what do you know, I’m a Type 2 diabetic. I believe awareness needs to be raised and people need to know what’s going on within their bodies because Native Americans are at a higher risk. There was a lot of good information here today. I came in for an appointment with the chiropractor and because I have Type 2 diabetes, I thought this looked interesting and checked it out to see what they have to offer. There were a lot of new recipes I picked up and am excited to use at home.”

Along with education and resources, the program also offered free blood glucose checks as well as tuberculous screenings. The World Health Organization states that approximately 15% of TB cases can be linked to complications from diabetes, as diabetes triples the likelihood of a someone developing TB. 

“I didn’t realize diabetes was connected to so many other health complications,” admits Type 2 Diabetic, Debbie Jackson. “I came for a dental cleaning and the clinic encouraged me to check out Diabetes Day. I very much liked the cooking I watched Britt do. I learned about different spices I can use in my cooking instead of sugar and salt. It was a very good day, the food was excellent and the people were helpful.”

Diabetes Day drew close to a hundred participants throughout the event. People left with not only reusable totes filled with gifts and goodies, but also a better understanding of diabetes and how to properly care for, prevent and manage the disease.

“We want to strengthen, teach and encourage the people to overcome the setbacks and drawbacks of diabetes and make sure they have a really good quality of life,” Miguel expressed. “We care about them as individuals and want to see them have a better life. There’s so much we can do to empower people to learn how to manage their diabetes.”

 The Diabetes Care and Prevention program has a few more events planned to close out 2019, including a Thanksgiving holiday dinner, a Seahawks game night and the annual Christmas powwow.

“For 2020, we’re going to start the National Diabetes Prevention program,” Roni said. “Our plan is to go about it in a way that’s similar to our past workshops. We want to incorporate herbal teachings with cooking, helping people make food shifts and monitor their weight loss and increase exercise. The patient to patient interactions is where we really see a lot of growth with our people, helping and supporting each other. Because they experienced what a newly diagnosed person is going through, they can be an inspiration to them so those people don’t feel like they have to walk through that alone.”

For more information, please contact the Diabetes Care and Prevention program at (360) 716-5641.

Tulalip Resort Casino Chefs Are Nutty for Hazelnuts This November Dishes to Celebrate the Resort’s Third Annual “Hazelnut Holidays”

Tulalip, Washington — Tulalip Resort Casino chefs are excited to whip up their newest filbert-filled creations for their dining guests. From breakfast and salads to seafood and tempting desserts, these seasoned chefs have rounded up some creative hazel-nutty recipes. Tulalip’s third annual “Hazelnut Holidays” will run from November 1 through December 1, 2019.

Local hazelnuts from Hazel Blue Acres will be featured throughout the Resort’s restaurants. What makes Hazel Blue Acres hazelnuts so special? These nuts originate at a local family farm in Silvana, Washington, near the Stillaguamish River. Tulalip’s commitment to curating top local ingredients in all of their dishes is highlighted with their partnership with Hazel Blue Acres.

“Hazelnuts are not just for dessert,” shares Executive Chef Perry Mascitti. “Hazelnuts and chocolate are a match made in heaven and their rich, nutty flavor can turn any dessert into a masterpiece. Roasted hazelnuts (chopped or whole) can impart a buttery savoriness to everything from salads to meat dishes, and can transform an otherwise simple dish into a satisfying, hearty plate. We can’t wait to share this year’s Hazelnut Holidays with you!”

The Tulalip chef team invites all Resort guests to enjoy the following hazelnut-laced selections during November’s Hazelnut Holidays.

Blackfish Wild Salmon Grill and Bar’s Chef David Buchanan loves cooking with hazelnuts because they add a sweet, nutty flavor to his Hazelnut Pesto Sea Bass. The Sea Bass is encrusted with the hazelnut pesto, served with a Havarti polenta, and autumn succotash of corn, roast butternut squash, asparagus, zucchini and red onion. And for the finale to dinner, guests can enjoy Pastry Chef Nikol Nakamura’s Sutell Stuffed Beignets. They are stuffed with Nutella hazelnut spread and served with praline ice cream, which should not be missed.

Is breakfast your favorite meal of the day? If so, then head over to Cedars Cafe, where Chef Brent Clarkson will be preparing his Cedar’s Café Grilled Hazelnut Coque Madame. Served on a grilled hazelnut crusted egg bread, layered with Havarti cheese, prosciutto, ham and two cook-to-order eggs, topped with the Chef’s Sauce Mornay. This hazelnut special will be offered seven days a week during November from 6 am to 4 pm. To fulfill your sweet tooth, indulge in their Chocolate and Hazelnut Pudding served with Frangelico cream, toasted hazelnuts and fresh raspberries. The perfect way to start any morning!

Join Chef Jeremy Taisey for Tula Bene Pastaria + Chophouse’s house-made Garganelle pasta served with braised pork, toasted hazelnut ragu, sun-dried tomatoes, rosemary, parmesan cheese and pickled peaches. And to end the meal with a slice of pure sweetness, try Pastry Chef Nikol Nakamura’s Gianduja Tart made with creamy mascarpone and a rich, deep chocolate hazelnut filling.

For a quick bite on-the-go, make a stop at either the Carvery or theHotel Espresso fortheir Toasted Hazelnut Chicken Salad. The salad will be served with a roasted chicken breast, toasted Hazel Blue Acres hazelnuts, and red grapes on a bed of crisp Bibb lettuce.

As part of this year’s Hazelnut Holidays, Chef Lil at Eagles Buffet will be sharing her signature Roast Pork Tenderloin. It will be served with a house-made mustard hazelnut sauce, which is part of the daily buffet offerings. For menu information and pricing, visit here

At The Draft Sports Bar and Grill, it’s all about the Hazelnut Chicken Bites. Chef Susan is serving these golden brown hazelnut crusted chicken bites with their house-made bleu queso dipping sauce. 

Tulalip’s Blazing Paddles Stone Fired Pizza and Spirits are showcasing their Hazelnut Fig and Pear Pizza this November: a tempting pizza layered with fig jam, arugula, red and Bartlett pears, brie cheese, prosciutto and topped with hazelnuts. 

Are you craving a dessert pizza? Order Blazing Paddles Hazelnut Cinnalicious made with cinnamon streusel, green apples and drizzled with a caramel sauce. 

The Tulalip culinary team extends an invitation for everyone to come and experience their “Hazelnut Holidays” for this limited engagement. For more information, visit tulalipcasino.com.