Quil Ceda Creek Casino Request for Proposals for Artwork

The Landing Restaurant at the new Quil Ceda Creek Casino October 2, 2020

1.0       Introduction:

The Quil Ceda Creek Casino (Owner) is soliciting request for proposals for artwork from enrolled Tulalip Tribes members for the design and production of artwork for ‘THE LANDING’ restaurant, which will be located within the new Quil Ceda Creek Casino. The casino is currently under construction with a scheduled opening date in early 2021.

The restaurant design is themed around the annual Pacific Northwest Tribal Canoe Journey specifically focused on ‘The Landing’ and the hospitality provided at each stop along the journey. The purpose of this request, is to seek proposals for custom designed artwork that will advance the story of “THE LANDING”.

The following is a narrative description of “THE LANDING”. This narrative will be printed on the restaurant menus.

The annual Tribal Canoe Journey is an ancestral summer tradition bringing together the people of the Pacific Northwest Tribes to celebrate the connection to salmon, water and each other. Canoes leave from their homeland and travel to the host tribe for a week of festivities. Depending on where the canoes are launched, the Canoe Journey can take up to three weeks of paddling through open waters.

As the canoes travel to the host tribe, the canoe families paddle for an average of eight hours a day and take breaks on beaches or supporting boats. At night, the canoe families stop at a designated tribal location to eat and rest. When conditions are optimal and the tide is just right, the canoes set out again until they reach the host location.

The host tribe formally grants the visiting canoes permission to come ashore (“The Landing”). Throughout the weeklong celebration and potlatch, the visiting tribes are fed, provided with a comfortable place to rest, and share songs, dances and stories of their travels through the open waters of the Salish Sea, Pacific Ocean, Strait of Juan de Fuca and the Puget Sound.

Like many traditions, the Canoe Journey was lost until the Maritime Committee of the Washington State Centennial Commission developed the Native American Canoe Project in 1987. The first step in reviving the tradition was to find suitable old-growth cedars of sufficient length and diameter, plus locating knowledgeable craftsmen to carve the canoes for the journey.

Seventeen Puget Sound tribes participated in the inaugural 1989 Paddle to Seattle Canoe Journey. Since then, the annual event has expanded to include more than a hundred tribes and First Nations from Western Washington, British Columbia and Alaska, but also from as far away as Hawaii and New Zealand.

As part of this tradition, we welcome you, our valued guest, at “The Landing.” Rest, eat and share stories of your adventures. We raise our hands to you in the traditional Tulalip greeting: a warm expression of welcome and friendship, harmony and hospitality. It is a greeting that says you are our guest, you are under our roof, and you are part of our family. Welcome!

2.0       Artwork:

The Owner has identified ten (10) individual pieces of carved artwork to be located within the restaurant. While the final design of each piece will be created by the selected artists, the location and size of each piece is shown in the conceptual architectural renderings included in Exhibit 1 and as noted below. The cedar will be provided by the Owner, but selected with the guidance of the chosen artist(s) to provide consistency in materials between the various art pieces. Paddle blanks for the paddles will be provided by the Owner to the Artist. All artwork is to be considered art gallery or museum quality. The building contractor will mount the artwork to the building or within casework under the direction of the artist and Owner. The artwork to be provided includes the following:

Carved Artwork

6 carved and painted cedar wood paddles (traditional sized paddles of approximately 57 inches in length to fit within a 6 ft. – 1/2 in. x 1 ft. – 6 in. lighted enclosure) The paddles shall include carved and painted images on one side of the paddle. The Owner is open to the carved paddles being provided by one or more artists under one proposal. If a proposal includes multiple artists, each artist shall be identified and images of their work shall be included within the submittal with the scope of work for each artist clearly identified in the proposal. A proposal that includes a team of artists shall also include how they plan to work together to create a unified design and message that brings life to the meaning of “The Landing”.

3 carved cedar wood panels: 7’-9” x 1’-0” each (the depth is anticipated to be approximately 2 – 4 inches. The final depth will be determined by the selected artist(s) and the Owner) It is anticipated that these will not be painted pieces, but the Owner is open to collaborating with the artist(s) to determine the finished condition based on the artist’s

design and recommendation. Consideration of the finish will include that these pieces are exposed and open to guests being able to touch the carved panels.

1 carved cedar wood panel: 11’-3” x 1’-6” (the depth is anticipated to be between 2 – 4 inches. The final depth will be determined by the selected artist(s) and the Owner) It is anticipated that this will not be a painted piece, but the Owner is open to collaborating with the artist to determine the finished condition based on the artist’s design and recommendation.  Consideration of the finish will include that this piece is exposed and open to guests being able to touch the carved panel.

The Owner intends that all carved panels shall be consistent in size, material, and general design so that they create a consistent look and feel that jointly tell the story of ‘The Landing’. Each carved panel shall be a separate design. The Owner is open to the carved panels being provided by one or more artists under one proposal. If a proposal includes multiple artists, each artist shall be identified and images of their work shall be included within the submittal with the scope of work for each artist clearly identified in the proposal. A proposal that includes a team of artists shall also include how they plan to work together to create a unified design and message that brings life to the meaning of “The Landing”.

3.0       Pre-qualification Criteria for  Submission:

  • Artist must be an enrolled Tulalip Tribal member
  • Must be a minimum of 18 years old
  • Must have the ability to meet the specified timeframe
  • Must have completed work of a similar quality and the type of artwork required
  • Artwork must be Pacific Northwest Coast Salish design

4.0       Form of Proposal

  • Cover letter identifying the Proposer, background and experience related to this submission.
  • Identify which piece or pieces of art the Proposer is interested in providing
  • Describe experience with similar projects involving creating custom art pieces for display purposes. Include up to 10 digital images of similar artwork completed by the Proposer, but no less than 5 images.
  • Include a minimum 250 word written narrative describing what each art piece being designed will represent and how the design will advance the story of ‘The Landing’
  • Include a statement that the Proposer is willing to agree to the following conditions:
  • The Artist(s) agree that upon completion, delivery and payment for the Artwork, all copyright and reproduction rights shall pass to the Owner. The Owner shall have the right to duplicate the artwork and control all usage of the design. The Artwork may be photographed, sketched, painted, copied, or reproduce in any manner whatsoever by the Owner their agents or assigns and for whatever use without the express, written consent of the Artist.
  • While the Owner intents to display the Artwork within the new Quil Ceda Creek Casino, the Owner makes no promises that the artwork will be displayed, or that the Owner will display the art in a specific manner, area or location
  • The name of the artist will be displayed
  • The Owner shall have the right to sell, give away or donate the artwork without compensation to the artist.

5.0       Timeline:

  • Issue Request for Proposals:  October 2, 2020
  • Response due date:  October 16, 2020
  • Complete proposal reviews, interviews (if required) and artist selection:  October21, 2020
  • Contract execution:  October 23, 2020
  • Artwork design approval:  November 18, 2020
  • The artist shall provide weekly review meetings on design progress to obtain Owner input during the design process
  • Artwork shall be complete and delivered to the new Quil Ceda Creek Casino project site:  December 18, 2020
  • The artist shall provide weekly status updates to the Owner on progress. The Owner may visit the artist to review progress as deemed necessary
  • Artwork Installation:  December 22, 2020

6.0       Selection Process & Notification:

  • All complete submittals received by the submittal time and date will be considered by the selection committee. Submissions will be evaluated on the following criteria:
  • Artistic quality;
  • Cultural relevance/concept;
  • Uniqueness and originality;
  • Professional quality;
  • Examples of past artwork that fit the current criteria;
  • Shown ability to meet the schedule

7.0       Compensation

  • Carved and painted wood paddles:  $2,500 each
  • Carved cedar wood panels (7’-9” x 1’-0”):  $5,000 for each piece
  • Carved cedar wood panel (11’-3” x 1’-6”): $7,000
  • The Owner will pay the artist(s) within 10 days after the art has been accepted by the Owner as meeting the requirements of the project and it has been delivered to the project site.
  • The Owner reserves the right to review the work before payment to the artist and if it’s not to the satisfaction of the Owner, the artist shall agree to work with the Owner until the Owner is satisfied.  This could include re-doing the work.

8.0       Acceptance or Rejection of Proposal

The Owner reserves the right to reject any and/or all Proposals. Owner also reserves the right to waive any information and technicalities.  The Contract(s) will be awarded to the artist(s) that the Owner believes to be in the best interest of the Project. Each Proposer is responsible for all their own costs associated with responding to this RFP and any expenses incurred by the Proposer in the selection process.

9.0       Proposals & Submittal Schedule

Proposals must be received by 2:30 PM on October 16, 2020. Proposals received after the time and date stated will not be accepted.

Proposals shall be submitted in an 11 x 17 sealed envelope and clearly labeled and addressed as follows.

Request for Proposals:  

Quil Ceda Creek Casino – Artwork Address:         

Quil Ceda Creek Casino

Attention:  Alicia Watson-Jones

6410 33rd Ave. NE

Tulalip, WA 98271 Proposals shall include 3 hard copies Proposals will be opened privately

Proposers may be asked to participate in a personal interview with members of the selection committee if the selection committee deems necessary.

Owner intends to make final selections by October 21, 2020 and to immediately enter into contracts with the artist(s) the Owner believes is in the best interest of the project. All Proposers will be notified of the artist(s) selected to complete the work.

10.0     Questions

All questions shall be directed to Eric Guion, Owner’s Representative for Tulalip Tribes Quil Ceda Creek Casino. All questions must be delivered by electronic mail (email). Questions will be received up to 5 days prior to the Proposal submittal date.

Contact Information Eric Guion

Email:  Eguion07@gmail.com

Phone: 206-910-1089

11.0     Jurisdiction

The Laws of the Tulalip Tribes shall govern

12.0     Non-Collusive Understanding

Each person and/or firm submitting a proposal thereby certifies that they have not colluded with any other person, firm or corporation in regards to securing or providing the artwork being solicited.

Confidentiality, Non-Disclosure & Ownership of   Documents

All materials provided by the Owner to the Proposer are considered confidential information and shall remain the property of the Owner.          The Proposer shall keep in confidence and shall not distribute, disclose, disseminate, or use, for its own benefit or for the benefit of others, in any manner or form, any confidential information received from the Owner, unless and to the extent specifically authorized in writing by the Owner. The Proposer shall use its best efforts to protect and guard the confidential information from disclosure and/or use by any person in violation of this Agreement.

Submitted proposals shall become the property of the Owner, for historical reference only. Proposers are advised to make copies of their work since the proposal will not be returned unless specific materials are identified by the Proposer. Materials the Proposer would like to have returned must be identified in the submittal package. The Owner takes no responsibility for the loss of any submitted materials.

Tulalip distance learning sites promote student achievement

By Micheal Rios, Tulalip News

Washington State is home to over one million public school students. According to the Seattle Times, 94.4% of these students have begun the 2020-2021 school year not in the classroom nor with any in-person interactions with their devoted teachers. Instead, nearly all of Washington’s public school districts have gone all-in with a virtual teaching concept designed to minimize spread of coronavirus – Distance Learning.

Defined as any form of remote education where the student is not physically present for the lesson, distance learning is the default safety net for education in the age of COVID. Thanks largely to the power of the internet, educators are able to teach their carefully crafted lesson plans via a computer screen and video cam to their young learners. This type of learning comes with one major flaw; it’s completely dependent on the students having the access and know-how to operate today’s tech gadgetry and ever-updating software and apps.

Welcome to 2020, where the kingdom of social distancing reigns supreme and access to ample bandwidth is the difference between a student achieving and being irritably stuck on a frozen Zoom screen. 

Fortunately for Tulalip’s K-12 students, they belong to a Tribe who had the foresight to transform the reservation’s largest two youth activity centers into dedicated distance learning sites. In the weeks leading up to the new school year, the Tulalip Teen Center and Boys & Girls Club received critical network upgrades to ensure a high-demand of bandwidth could be sustained, turned typical activity and gaming rooms into spaces that encourage learning, and instituted COVID guidelines such as temperature checks, mask enforcement, and social distancing.

“The health, education and overall success of our students is our top priority. The Tulalip Education Division and the Tulalip Boys & Girls Club are working hard to provide support in the safest environment possible,” stated Jessica Bustad, executive director of education. “Together we can ensure that our students begin thriving during these uncertain times. We wrapped up our second full week of Distance Learning and are improving services provided to our students. We are very proud of our young people who are showing up and doing the best they can.”

Change can come into our lives as a result of crisis, as a result of choice or just by chance. Being unprepared and resistant to change leads to fear, hostility and a sense of hopelessness. Embracing change and managing all its challenges in a constructive way is key to not only surviving, but thriving in an ever-changing world. 

Adapting to change is what the devoted staff of both distance learning sites and the many young minds who attend on a daily basis exemplify. Primarily accommodating Kindergarten – 5th grade students who require much more attention and emotional reassuring, the usual Boys & Girls Club activities specialists are now de facto educators.

“We are no longer a traditional boys and girls club. We’ve become a school-like learning center,” said Diane Prouty, administrative assistant for the Club. “We have 98 kids registered and average about 70 kids per day. We separate them by grade level, so 1st graders are together, 2nd graders are together and so on. 

“As a staff, we feel so needed. We’re all learning to navigate this unprecedented time together,” she continued. “We have five different elementary schools represented among our K-5 kids. We do our best to keep up with each student’s daily responsibilities, but there are so few of us and so many of them. It can be overwhelming at times because we know some kids require more one-on-one time, but we have to use our time effectively to do the most good. At the end of the day, we are making a huge impact by creating a safe place for our community’s kids to learn.” 

Adapting to the new tech-centric normal is easier for teens who willingly spend much of their free time with their eyes glued to screens anyway, whether it be a computer, TV, cell phone, tablet or video game. A big obstacle for them is less familiarity with Chromebooks and virtual learning programs and more access to a consistent internet connection. Within the rezzy landscape of Tulalip, stable internet and adequate bandwidth can be difficult to come by under the best of conditions. 

Network upgrades and additional Wi-Fi hot spots at the Teen Center make it a quality alternative for homebound teenagers looking to focus on their school work. Plus, there is support offered by both peers and staff, many of whom are recent graduates of the same Marysville School District curriculum. 

“It’s been pretty cool because there are people here to guide us with our school work when we’re confused and have questions,” shared 9th grader Image Enick. “For those with working parents, there is no one at home to assist with assignments, but here at the Teen Center there are plenty of people we are comfortable with asking questions. I haven’t had any difficulty with my online classes or getting kicked off because of bad internet either.”

“We are so proud of the kids here,” added tribal advocate Courtney Jefferson. “We’ve been averaging 40 to 60 a day. They have been taking the initiative to prioritize their education and haven’t needed to be redirected to engage in their online classes. They’ve been getting themselves into their learning spaces, taking ownership of their rooms here in the building, and being productive with their time.”

The Tulalip distance learning sites continue to adapt and find creative ways to provide additional support to our students. Both locations are a safe space for students to access the internet, connect to WI-FI, or use a desktop. They each provide daily meals as well. Most importantly, the sites allow students to build a routine, with consistent support and resources that effectively promote scholastic achievement.

The Tulalip Education staff are also available to provide support and resources to students who are not currently attending the facilities. Feel free to contact any of the programs if you have additional questions: 

TVTC grad showcases skills by building Tulalip elder a chicken coop

By Micheal Rios, Tulalip News

Earlier this summer, Tulalip elder Terry Parker Sr. was sitting on his front porch when inspiration struck. He thought to himself how wonderful it would be if his beloved chickens had an area to themselves in the front yard, with a clear line of sight from the porch.

“I called my son Torry who operates a construction maintenance company and let him know of my idea,” recalled Terry. “He said he had a young Tulalip man in mind, and that this would be a good solo project for him.” 

The young man was Gerald Williams. A recent graduate of TERO Vocational Training Center, he was eager to further develop his construction skills while demonstrating everything he learned under the tutelage of TVTC instructors.

“Gerald came to my house and we talked about the design and specific dimensions I had in mind for the coop. He was quick to grasp my idea and make it into a reality,” said Terry.

And so Gerald got to work. Nearly two months of hard sweat and labor under the summer sun later, he completed a pretty elaborate coop for the Mr. Parker’s chickens. Complete with ample storage space, outdoor range for the chickens to stretch their feathers, and a running water spigot. 

After painting his completed project a nice mellow yellow color, Gerald beamed with pride when Terry took in the finished product a few weeks ago.

“It’s exactly what I wanted. The quality is top notch and made to withstand our Washington weather,” Terry said from his front porch while admiring his new chicken coop. “Gerald is just a fantastic person. Doesn’t talk too much, just gets down to work every day and does his best.”

At 74-years-old, Terry thoroughly enjoys keeping chickens. They give him a daily routine to adhere to and now being able to watch them from his front porch, they bring additional peace of mind. The relationship is healing as well. Terry takes great care of his chickens, giving them an eye-catching living environment and good feed so they’ll lay many eggs.

“Their eggs are medicine. With my diabetes, eating eggs everyday helps keep my blood sugar down and [improves insulin sensitivity],” explained Terry. “Keeping chickens is something my wife and I enjoy very much. We can’t thank Gerald enough for building us this amazing coop. My hands go up to him.”

Plant powered crafting for holistic health

By Micheal Rios, Tulalip News

Herbal medicine is one of the oldest teachings we have. Human beings have supported holistic health and wellness with the use of plants and herbs that naturally work synergistically with our minds, bodies, and spirits since the dawn of time. What could be a more amazing way to support your optimal well-being than by using nature’s gifts?

“This is what is so wonderful about herbal nutrition and using plants in a culturally appropriate and traditional way to support our wellness,” marveled Veronica “Roni” Leahy, Diabetes Care and Prevention Program coordinator at the Tulalip Health Clinic. Her dedicated team hosted several plant-based craft making tables at Garden Treasurers organic farm on Wednesday, September 16. “This is such a precious opportunity to talk about plants and how important they are for the overall health of our bodies. This work truly is making an impact on preventing diabetes and other chronic diseases.”

Our bodies were designed to exist with nature, which is why it should come as no surprise that herbal medicine continues to be an effective way to support wellness. For countless generations, we’ve incorporated herbs into our food culture and used them foundationally to create medicines to remedy the most common ailments. Whether you realize it or not, plants have a deep-rooted effect on the way we feel, both physically and spiritually. We quite literally feel better and get an energy boost by simply allowing ourselves to be immersed by plant power. It’s the way nature intended.

For Tulalip families and health clinic patients who ventured to Garden Treasures and took advantage of September 16’s u-pick garden day, they were treated with an opportunity to learn about plant-based crafting. Think of it as chicken soup for the soul, but instead of chicken soup its locally grown lavender, lemongrass and berry blends.

Amy King brought her two daughters, Kimberly and Grace, to the hands-on event to learn more about healthier food options and was pleasantly surprised to see the craft tables. After making their rounds through the farm and picking a wide-range of fresh produce, they took a seat and got to work making bundles of dry lavender.

“It was a little difficult because I’ve never made one before, but it was fun learning. I want to hang mine by my bed or put it next to my pillow,” said 12-year-old Grace.

Lavender is a flowering plant in the mint family that’s easily identified by its sweet floral scent and stunning shade of purple. It’s commonly used for medicinal and therapeutic benefits, namely to improve sleep and reduce blood pressure. Lavender is also a great natural remedy for everyday stresses that can take a toll on your mental health.  There’s plenty of research that suggests the purple herb has positive effects on mood, stress, anxiety and depression.

As an aspiring chef, 15-year-old Kimberly felt her mood become more and more joyous as she finished her lavender bundle and began looking forward to some creative cooking with all her garden harvesting. 

“The cooking process is more fun when you can handpick your own ingredients,” she said. “Getting fruits, vegetables, and herbs straight from the garden means you’re cooking with the freshest ingredients and making healthier meals. Walking through the gardens and seeing all the different options, it’s easy to think creatively and get a lot of ideas. I plan on experimenting with what I picked today and making a chicken stir-fry.”

With the summer season officially over and Pacific Northwest temperatures already in the mid-60s, we’re back to a near permanent weather forecast of dreary with a chance of rain showers. The quick turn in weather has brought about legitimate concern from medical experts that seasonal depression will pack some extra oomph this fall. A simple mood enhancer to help combat the effects of less sunlight and colder temperatures is a daily hot cup of lemongrass tea. 

Naturally growing in these parts and conveniently found at the health clinic’s Wellness Garden, lemongrass can alleviate depression and anxiety when enjoyed as an herbal tea. Its pleasant, citrusy taste is a like a reminder of bright and cheerful days. This perennial plant is packed full of antioxidants, good for digestion, regulates high blood pressure, and can boost your immune system. 

“It’s important, especially as we approach cold and flu season, to stay hydrated and strengthen your immune system to stay healthy. Tea is an effective strategy and it’s easy to make,” explained indigenous chef Britt Reed, creator of Food Sovereignty is Tribal Sovereignty, as she wove lemongrass into palm-sized wreaths. The mini green wreaths can be easily placed into a hot cup or teapot, steeped for 10-15 minutes, and then enjoyed.

“What I enjoy the most about these opportunities is sharing the plant stories and watching the people’s interest grow as they learn more about the many health benefits of local plants,” reflected Roni after another successful event sharing traditional knowledge and assisting community craft makers.

One such participant was Lummi elder Anita Rutherford. She shared that she’s attended every Garden Treasures u-pick day hosted by the Diabetes Care and Prevention Program thus far and looks forward to attending the final two on September 30 and October 17 as well. 

“I’ve been a member of the diabetes program ran by Roni since the beginning, some 5 or 6 years now, and I’m happy to say my diabetes is under control because of this program’s guidance,” shared Anita. “They’ve taught me how to properly monitor my blood sugar level and how to view food as my best form of medicine.”

The quest for optimal health and wellness begins with discovering a vibrant lifestyle based on nature’s gifts. Whether it be eating more fruits and vegetables in every day meals or crafting traditional medicines with locally grown flowers and herbs, the power of plants is undisputed.

New Quil Ceda Creek Casino to feature new table games and addition of 500 gaming machines to boost gaming experience

Beautifully designed and expanded main casino set to open in early 2021  

TULALIP, WA – The new Quil Ceda Creek Casino’s big lineup of gaming options will include the debut of new table games and 50% more gaming machines when it opens in early 2021.

More than twice the size of the current property, the new 126,700 square-foot casino will boost gaming excitement with three new table games (for a total of 16) and the addition of 500 gaming machines – bringing the total to 1,500. The new Quil Ceda Creek Casino and multi-story garage is situated on 15 acres of Tulalip Tribal land located directly off I-5 exit 199.

Two brand new titles coming to the gaming floor are “EZ Baccarat” – a fast, easy-to-play game following the same game play format as baccarat, and Craps with Fire Bet.  Spanish 21 Progressive and i-Roulette, an electronic chipless version of Roulette, will also go live, joining Double Deck Blackjack, Roulette, Free Bet Blackjack, Fortune Pai-Gow Progressive and Ultimate Texas Hold’m Progressive.

Expanded gaming offerings at the new casino will be complemented with new casual dining experiences, including made-to-order menu selections at “The Kitchen,” an innovative food hall concept, and an exciting a la carte dining experience at “The Landing.”  The new casino will include an expanded entertainment lounge and three full-service bars serving craft cocktails, regional beers, Northwest wines and appetizers.

The current Quil Ceda Creek Casino facility will remain fully operational until the new casino opens to the public in early 2021. More information on the new Quil Ceda Creek Casino and a livestream look at construction can be found at quilcedacreekcasino.com/NewQCCCasino.

Dolores “Annette” Medcalf

1951 – 2020

On Thursday, September 17, 2020, Dolores “Annette” Medcalf, loving wife, and mother of three passed away at age 68.

Annette was born November 4, 1951 in Seattle, WA. On March 14, 1969 she married Joe “Corky” Medcalf. She took care of many people as a home care aid for many years. They raised three children, son Kalonie, and two daughters, Theresa and Elizabeth “Mimi”, and granddaughter Kailene. Although there are many who call her Mom.
Annette was a loving and caring woman. She made friends wherever she went. She was smart, witty, and always ready to smile and laugh. She was an excellent cook and a crafty creative person.

Annette is preceded in death by her mother, Rose and several beloved brothers and sisters. She is survived by her husband, Corky; children, Kalonie, Theresa and Mimi; grandchildren, Kailene, Mayson, and Zoie; great-grandchildren, Joey and Jaycee; brother Charles Blatchford; sisters Molly (Tamur) Zahir, and Leona Ward.

A funeral service will be held Friday, Sept. 25, 2020 at 10:00 AM at the Tulalip Gym in Tulalip, WA with burial to follow at the Mission Beach Cemetery.
November 4, 1951 – September 17, 2020

Every Native Vote Counts

By Micheal Rios, Tulalip News

“As Native people, we are born into politics. Our ancestors fought and died, not only for our survival, but also to determine how our people would live generations into the future. As tribal members, you have rights defined by the treaties that your chiefs negotiated with the federal government,” stated Larry Cordier (Lakota), tribal organizer for Washington State Democrats.

“In recent years, Washington tribes have had a resurgence of culture and tradition. The return of the canoe journey, language, and food sovereignty are examples of the priorities the tribal councils have placed in determining the future of their Nations,” he continued. “That work must continue. We are working hard to elect candidates and partners who support tribal sovereignty and self-determination.”

Larry’s words rang out at the Don Hatch Youth Center on Friday, September 18, during a Democrat-sponsored, ‘Get Out the Native Vote’ community event. The mission was to make it as convenient as possible for non-registered, eligible Tulalip voters to get registered to vote in the upcoming presidential election.

Such was the case with Tulalip tribal member Jaydin Thompson Sheldon who turned 18-years-old this past summer. Becoming a full-fledged U.S. adult citizen right before a presidential election was not lost on the Marysville-Getchell graduate, as she expressed a sense of perspective few her age rarely do. 

“It was important to me to get registered today so I can have a say in elections. Not just for president, but local and state elections, too,” reflected an optimistic Jaydin moments after registering to vote and collecting a stylish Native Vote 2020 t-shirt. “It’s become a trending topic with my friends on social media, so I’m hopeful a lot of people my age will vote. Because I’m new to politics there is a lot of research I need to do to determine which candidates reflect my values.”

While voters like Jaydin aren’t willing to commit to either major party or their high profiled candidates, there is a growing consensus from Tulalip leadership that a Biden/Harris ticket is the only way to go in order to protect treaty rights and strengthen tribal sovereignty. 

Married couple Lavinia and George Contraro expressed something similar to the ‘blue no matter who’ mantra because they feel the current president doesn’t deserve a second term.

“It’s been a while since I’ve voted,” shared George. Event staff assisted him filling out the necessary forms so that he can come out of voter hibernation and cast a ballot come Election Day. “It’s important I vote now because we need Trump gone.” 

“It’s only common sense. Everyone has to vote for Biden if we’re going to get Trump out of office,” added his wife, Lavinia. She was able to check her voter registration and get it updated with her current address. 

Concluding the afternoon event, staff noted they successfully assisted 14 tribal members get registered to vote. 

“This is a huge success. If we got only one person registered it would have been a success, and to get fourteen is just that much more significant,” said Board of Director Misty Napeahi. “Hopefully, everyone we got registered today will talk to other people they know who aren’t registered and let them know how easy the process is.

“This election may be the most important election of our lifetime!” she continued. “Historically, we’ve been told our vote doesn’t matter because that’s how Republicans win elections, though voter suppression. When we the people get out and vote, Democrats win. That’s why it is so important that this election every Native vote be counted.”

1,000 Miles and Running

Jim Strickland and Tyler Fryberg ran 1,000 miles for Leah’s Dream Foundation. 

By Kalvin Valdillez, Tulalip News

“Nobody in my family was a runner,” said Tulalip tribal member, Tyler Fryberg. “But once I was able to run my first three miles without stopping, that got me excited and I kept on running ever since.”

Tyler’s passion for running began during a big change in his life, when making the transition from middle school to high school. Knowing he wanted to participate in school sports, he signed up for cross country and track & field during his freshman year at Lake Stevens High School. He continued competing in both sports his sophomore year before transferring to Monroe High School where he completed his school career.

“When I left Lake Stevens and moved to Monroe, where I graduated, it was all new,” he said. “I started there my 11th grade year and I did both cross country and track. I didn’t make varsity for cross country my first year there, but I did for track & field. After my 11th grade year, I end up lettering in both sports during my senior year. That was my goal I had all along, even with knowing I had a disability and that it was going to be a lot harder than the normal person.”

After lettering in cross country as well as track & field, and also receiving his diploma, Tyler set new goals to crush and kept lacing up his running sneakers every single day to begin training for the Special Olympics. Due to his hard work, Tyler medaled nearly every year he competed at the Special Olympics and even carried the Special Olympics Torch of Hope for 18 miles in 2012. 

Now age 28, Tyler has run for over half of his life, with the exception of a one-year hiatus due to an injury, “that really got me thinking about my body, taking care of it better so I can run longer,” he expressed.

With countless miles under his belt and several accolades to show for his love of running, Tyler is constantly looking for new challenges, new opportunities to push his limits and exceed his own personal goals. When he learned about a former teacher, Jim Strickland, partnering with Tulalip-based non-profit, Leah’s Dream Foundation, to help raise money and promote awareness for children with disabilities, it was the perfect match.

“I was already involved with Leah’s Dream,” he stated. “So, when they decided to make the Miracle Mile Challenge, I said right away that I definitely wanted to be a part of it. When I signed-up, there was a lot of different miles you can choose from. For me, I like to make big goals so I picked 1,000 miles. That journey started January 1st and was supposed to end on December 31st, but I actually finished my 999th mile a couple weeks ago.” 

Finishing months in advance, Tyler ran between 3.5–5 miles for six days every week of the year, making sure to take a rest day to recover and prepare for the upcoming week. On top of the Miracle Mile challenge, Tyler has competed in Special Olympic events such as virtual races, that are held online due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Tyler also created a Facebook page to keep his fans and supporters updated during the challenge and his upcoming running endeavors.

“Somedays I feel motivated, and there are times I don’t feel like running at all,” Tyler admitted. “But this challenge is for Leah’s Dream and knowing that, it gave me motivation to run every day and it was actually something I looked forward to and was excited to do.”

Leah’s Dream Foundation was established in 2015 with one major objective in mind, inclusion. The foundation was started by Deanna Sheldon and family when her daughter, Leah, was diagnosed with autism. The profits that the foundation raises go towards parties, gifts and activity packages for children and young adults living with autism and special needs, to help build a sense of community amongst the youth and their families. Some of their most popular events include the Leah’s Dream Foundation Annual Golf Tournament and the summertime Special Needs Field Day, complete with bouncy castles and a BBQ.

“Before the pandemic, we used to host community events where families all across our community would come together,” Deanna explained. “It was always a free event; we had food, arts and crafts, activities, and events. Last year around this time, Mr. Strickland said he wanted to raise money by running 1,000 miles in one year, and wanted to offer people the chance to do it with him. He’s a runner and is so inspirational.”

Added Amy Sheldon, Leah’s Dream Board Member and Deanna’s sister, “Mr. Strickland was actually Kelsey’s teacher. Kelsey’s my daughter, she’s 24 years old and has autism. He is the one teacher that she had a lot of comfort in, she only had two that she really liked in high school and he was one of those. He would think outside of the box to help her. He’s an inspiration and goes above and beyond for our community.”

Jim Strickland is an instructor at Marysville Getchell High School and has worked throughout the Marysville School District, assisting young adults with developmental disabilities transition to a life outside of high school. 

“I’ve worked with people with disabilities my entire career,” Jim said. “I teach the transition program at Marysville Getchell High School, helping people with disabilities transition from school to active roles in their community. I always had a passion for creating a community that was truly inclusive so that everybody has a place, is valued and is able to share their skills and abilities, whatever they might be. That’s my dream come true, and this played right into it. Leah’s Dream is really about that.”

He continued, “We were looking at a way to raise awareness for Leah’s Dream Foundation and to also raise funds. A lot of my students have been the beneficiaries of the projects that [Leah’s Dream Foundation] has done here in the community. Since Tyler and I both like running, we decided to do a running challenge and I set my sights high for 1,000 miles. Of course, Tyler’s an animal and he’s got other races he’s involved with, so his running went really fast. I had to pick up the pace. Turns out we were able to finish 999 miles sooner than we expected, so we wanted to have a celebratory last-mile-run together and hopefully put the word out and get some more contributions for Leah’s Dream.”

On the afternoon of September 19, upwards of forty people gathered at the Tulalip Sports Complex, located outside of the Tulalip Youth Center. The two participants readied themselves in a running position and the crowd began to count them down. At 1:00 p.m. on the dot, Tyler and Jim took off and began their final mile side-by-side. 

A young man practicing drills on the football field with his family learned about what was happening and immediately began jumping up and down, cheering on the runners, especially Tyler. The young man was so excited, he left his family during the middle of his training session and took a lap around the complex, hooting and hollering for the cause the entire way. Other friends of Tyler and Jim also joined in on the celebration, participating in the midday exercise by walking or running a few yards behind the 1,000 mile-dashers, including Leah herself who took her scooter for a spin along the track.

A big motivator for Tyler is when people recognize him while he is out running on Totem Beach Road. In fact, Tyler is known by many for his passion of running and has earned himself the nickname of the ‘Tulalip Marathon Man’ for the many years he dedicated to his sport. And of course, like almost every athlete will tell you, it’s all about the gear and looking stylish while you do your thing. After many years of trial and error, Tyler has found the perfect running shoe to withstand all the miles he tracks.

“These are them, the new ones,” he exclaimed while showcasing his kicks. “Everyone’s got to see the shoes. I like to wear Brooks because it’s the only shoe I found to help me be successful as a runner. They are the most comfortable – and I’ve tried all the brands.”

In addition to his fly feet apparel, Tyler unveiled his own personal brand during the Miracle Mile event. While making his strides towards his final mile, Tyler proudly displayed his new merch for all to see; a t-shirt, water bottle and a mask with his alias, ‘Tulalip Marathon Man’, in large text next to a silhouetted-logo of himself running. 

“Running is important to me because it’s something I enjoy doing,” Tyler expressed. “I think it motivates people to start exercising in general. When people see me on the side of the road, it brings me motivation and excitement and it’s actually really cool when it happens in your own community. It makes me feel good and it’s really important to me. My advice to new runners is find something that motivates you to run and don’t push yourself too hard, you have to take it easy at first when you are learning how to run. Take it one mile and one day at a time, and remember that anything is possible.”

With 1,000 miles in the books and smoke-free weather, Tyler is ready to get back on his grind and is already conjuring up his next personal goal. The partnership with Leah’s Dream helped raise over $1,200.00 and the non-profit is still accepting pledges for the runners, although the event finished earlier than anticipated. The foundation will now focus their efforts on creating a magical Christmas for their children and community, assembling gift-care packages that will be hand-delivered to their homes by none other than Santa Clause.   

“We want our families to know that we’re here, we care and we just generally want us all to be together again,” Deanna said. “We’re all within a community, we are all one and united, it doesn’t matter what disability or non-disability you have. Creating an inclusive environment is one of the biggest things we want, love and strive for.”

For more information about Leah’s Dream Foundation and the Tulalip Marathon Man, be sure to follow their journey on their respective Facebook pages.