June/July 2019 Vol. 53 No. 5
Spread Your Wings
Try New Things | PAGE 20
C
NTENTS INSIDE
MAY 12 — Mother's Day youth canoe race held by the Nooksack Tribe. This group took first place in the 11 man race! Photo courtesy of Susan Bobb
ON THE COVER
20
Try New Things
Spread Your Wings
Ellen Clark 2018 Miss Swinomish Tiny-Tot
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03 05 07 08 10 12 13 16 17 18 20 22 24 25 26 27 28 30 31 32 33 34 35 36
Editor's Note Chairman's Message Community Happenings Honoring the Season of Salmon Sobriety Dinner Education Dinner NWIC + La Conner High School Graduation August 2019 Tide Table What's Up Doc? Being Frank: Fisheries Management More Challenging... Try New Things Meet the New VISTA Native Food Sovereignty... Swinomish Camas Dig Swinomish Invited to Skokomish Swinomish Preschool Graduation Toddler Moving Up Ceremony Science Corner: Kukutali Update Basketball Swinomish Hosts Joint Education Meeting Monthly Money Matters Law Day 2019 Mrs. V's 2 Cents Elder's Lunch Menu Birthdays and Announcements
Moon of the Salmonberry
editor’s NOTE
pedsteGad
(puds-teh-GWAD) Much of June is the "moon of the salmonberry." During this moon, fruits such as salmonberry and red huckleberry are ripening and ready to harvest. Ripe salmonberries signal the start of many salmon runs during this moon, including summer Chinook and sockeye salmon. Salmon are caught using weirs and reef nets made from willow and cedar barks. Sockeye salmon, also called reds, are valued for their fat and flavor. This moon also signals the time when the daytime tide is extremely low, allowing access to scallops, geoducks clams, and giant red sea urchins as well as many other shellfish. Shellfish harvest and curing continues.
Moon of the Blackberry pedGedbix (pud-gwud-BEE-hw) Much of July is "the moon of the blackberry." Many berries are now ripe, including blackberries. Berries are picked and eaten fresh or dried for winter use. Around this time and sometimes earlier, the sap in cedar trees stops running, signaling the time to harvest cedar bark. Cedar bark has many uses, providing materials for shelter, clothing, tools and transportation. Some examples of cedar items are bent-wood boxes, ropes, and hats. Sockeye salmon fishing is reaching its peak. Every second year during this moon, humpback salmon, also called humpies or pink salmon, start running at the end of this moon and into the next two moons. Humpies are captured in pounds, weirs, and with scoop nets. Humpies are then smoked hard. Shellfish harvest and curing continues.
It’s the small enjoyable things that help reinforce and revamp my happiness. When I spread my wings there is a sense of control, a choice to either leap or not. The pit of my stomach always feels the pressure first! I for one can hardly jump from a cliff into the water, so taking life leaps is not easy because I am such a grounded person. I have to dig deep within to make it happen! What does it mean to spread your wings? It's all a matter of perspective. The very first leap is all it takes! Milestones are in my opinion an example of spreading your wings. It just keeps getting better the more you spread your wings! Examples of Spreading Your Wings: Discover who you are; traveling to new places and trying new food; go extreme and try skydiving; leaving the nest and living on your own; buying your first home; all things related to graduation; getting a job or changing careers; letting go of things or people that hold you back; making new friends or rekindling an old friendship; getting married or divorced; running for tribal council; buying your very own fishing boat; changing your lifestyle. These are just a few of the many ways you can spring your wings. The point is to spread your wings, in the way that you know how to. I've learned that as I grow older, I've locked myself into a schedule surrounded by family and my career. I have to make a point to go outside of my normal schedule to make things happen! In order to spread my wings, I have to make the choice and act on it! Caroline Edwards goliahlitza
Excerpt from ‘13 Moons: The 13 Lunar Phases, and How They Guide the Swinomish People’ By swelitub (Todd A. Mitchell) and Jamie L. Donatuto
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The official news publication
of the Swinomish Indian Tribal Community
T R I B A L S E N AT E
spee pots Brian Cladoosby, Chairman (360) 708.7533 | bcladoosby@
ya qua leouse Brian Porter, Vice Chair (360) 840.4186 | bporter@
sapelia Sophie Bailey, Secretary (360) 853.6458 | sbailey@
sOladated Brian Wilbur, Treasurer (360) 588.2812 | bwilbur@
The mission of qyuuqs News is to provide monthly communication to Swinomish Indian Tribal Community Members near and far. We are committed to serving as an apolitical forum for the Swinomish governing officials and all Community Members. qyuuqs News is not intended to reflect the official position of the governing body at Swinomish Indian Tribal Community but rather reflects the ideas, events, and thoughts of individual Community Members and Tribal staff. As such, the Swinomish Tribe makes no claim as to the accuracy or content of any of the articles contained therein. qyuuqs News 17337 Reservation Road, La Conner, WA 98257 Phone (360) 466.7258 Fax (360) 466.1632 *SUBMISSIONS Send your news tips, stories, and photos to qyuuqs@swinomish.nsn.us Submission deadline: 10th day of the month
stoolsta Eric Day (360) 770.7024 | eday@
EDITORIAL Caroline Edwards, Editor | cedwards@swinomish.nsn.us
yal le ka but
SWINOMISH COMMUNICATIONS Heather Mills, Communications Manager | hmills@swinomish.nsn.us Emma Fox, Communications Specialist | efox@swinomish.nsn.us
Steve Edwards (360) 840.5768 | sedwards@
taleq tale II Barbara James (360) 391.3958 | bjames@
SM OK O LO Leon John (360) 421.0406 | ljohn@
wa lee hub Kevin Paul (360) 540.3906 | tribalsenator@yahoo.com
kats-but-soot Jeremy Wilbur 360-770-7447 | jjwilbur@
squi-qui Joseph Williams (360) 853.5629 | jwilliams@ All Swinomish staff emails: FirstInitialLastName@swinomish.nsn.us
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ADVISORY COMMITTEE Allan Olson, Tracy James, Kevin Paul This issue is available online at swinomish-nsn.gov/qyuuqs Photos credits: qyuuqs News Staff or as credited. All rights reserved. Facebook: Swinomish qyuuqs News Linkedin: Swinomish Indian Tribal Community
*qyuuqs News is made available for viewing on the Internet When submitting information, stories, and/or photos, please be aware everything published in the print version of qyuuqs News is also published on the Internet and is available to the world. Please consider carefully whether your submissions contain anything you feel may not be suitable or appropriate for the Internet. By submitting your information, stories, and/or photos to qyuuqs News, you agree to publishing your submission in both the print and online versions of qyuuqs News. qyuuqs News is a publication of the Swinomish Indian Tribal Community produced by Swinomish Communications.
We are truly blessed this spring with beautiful weather in the Skagit Valley. It is almost the end of June and I am ready to catch Baker River sockeye, and Lord willing we will make a catch to put some away in our freezers. It’s heartwarming when Dad and uncle Kevin tell the story to our grandchildren, Bella and Nathaniel, about when they use to fish salmon all year long on the Skagit. I tell the grandkids when we were young we would ask our parents, “What is for dinner?” and they would answer, “fish and potatoes.” All of our traditional foods come from the shoreline of the Salish Sea, and we are grateful to harvest them as part of our inherit rights as protected by the Treaty of Point Elliott. The June/July qyuuqs News initiated the editorial theme “Spreading Your Wings,” and how appropriate for this time of year. I am so happy to see the smiles of our youngsters as they graduate from school. Whether they are moving up from kindergarten to first grade, or graduating from eight grade, high school, or college: Our kids are making their dreams come true! Can you believe all of the graduates from the La Conner High School Class of 2019? We raise our hands to the Swinomish leaders that decided years ago that we must invest in education from early childhood to college. Our children mean everything to us and we must give them all of the opportunities they deserve to succeed in life. Thank you to the parents, aunties, uncles, grandparents, brothers, and sisters who support and ensure our children have a future. At Swinomish we live by our traditional ways knowing 'it takes a village to raise a child.' Summer crept up on us, and it is the time for welcoming back our precious resources into the community. The arrival of the mighty Chinook on the Skagit River; the coming of the yellow and black butterfl ies; and the salmon berries trigger us to honor our traditions and host the Blessing of the Fleet. We
always look forward to an abundance of prawns, crab, and fresh king salmon to fi ll our tables. I have to share a fun fact with you all. Lorraine has her entire staff and family dedicate many days to preparing for the ceremony, but here is the kicker: The potato salad for the entire event is made by hand by her team and family. That is love and a whole lot of potato peeling! On behalf of the Swinomish Community we thank Lorraine, the staff, and our harvesters for providing traditional foods and taking care of our community. We remember the Blessing of Fleet as a monumental time of year when we ask our Creator to take care of the fishermen, to watch over the waters and to provide thanks for the salmon that sustains our culture, economies, and health. In this time of gathering we ask our fisherman to remember to bring fish home to the elders and the Creator will bless you for your thoughtfulness and consideration. I want to say a special thank you to an employee who is very important to myself and to our Tribe. For over 40 years Larry Wasserman has committed his life to saving the salmon, and as a biologist, he studied and practiced salmon recovery for many years at the Yakama Nation before he came to work for us. He has built a relationship with our community, and we will miss him. He will be a legend that will be remembered by us all and we will always know him at Swinomish as 'Chief.' Happy retirement, Larry! In closing, as we witness our young ones spreading their wings and flying into the future, we can’t help but thank all of those before us. Many thanks to our ancestors who taught us that we must honor those before us and those ahead of us, as today’s success depends on both. In my same thought, I think of our old timers and those who are retired from our Tribe; and we wish them the very best as they tuck their wings in and support the next generation of Swinomish youth coming home from college to find their place. For all of our graduates, again, congratulations and may the Creator bless each and everyone one of you. Brian Cladoosby spee pots
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the chairman’s MESSAGE
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Attention Swinomish Homeowners, Mutual Help, and Mortgage Homes Buyers Swinomish Housing Authority
Swinomish Housing Authority will no longer be able to make or order repairs and items for your house as of June 1, 2019. We do not have a HUD program to support this type of activity. If you need home repairs made, please notify the appropriate contractor to perform the work. You may contact the Swinomish Housing Authority for any vendor information we may have. Your cooperation in this matter is greatly appreciated. If you have questions or need additional information, please contact our office at (360) 466.4081.
NOTICE OF BACK-TO-SCHOOL GIFT CARD DAY AUGUST 14 | 10AM-6PM All Swinomish enrolled members in grades 6-12 who are not attending La Conner Schools are eligible to receive a Back-To-School Gift Card, so long as they have their final 2018-2019 report card, grades, or other proof of academic enrollment. All Swinomish students in grades 6-12 who have earned less than a 1.00 GPA during the last semester will need to contact Michael Vendiola to find out their options for receiving their gift card on time in August. Evidence of enrollment can be submitted via fax, mail, or in person. MAIL: Attention Michael Vendiola
WARNING: Don't Fall Prey To A Social Security Scam! Phone call scams by people (or recordings) portraying representatives from the Social Security Administration (SSA) are becoming increasingly sophisticated, some even spoofing caller ID or using SSA employee names. Hang up the phone immediately if you receive a call and the caller: • Threatens you • Asks for personal or financial information • Says they are from the SSA and your benefits will be cut off or suspended • Says your Social Security number has been involved in a crime Please contact the Social Security Administration OIG Fraud Hotline immediately if you suspect fraud. Telephone: (800) 269.0271 from 7 AM-1 PM TTY: (866) 501.2101 for the deaf or hard of hearing Online: oig.ssa.gov/report-fraud-waste-or-abuse sw d bš qyuuqs News e e
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17337 Reservation Road, La Conner, WA 98257 FAX: (360) 466.1632 IN PERSON: Education Department, 2nd floor of Social Services *Age-eligible preschool students (3 years old before August 31st through 5 years old) will need to be enrolled in school with paperwork completed for preschool before their gift cards can be picked up. The Preschool packets for enrollment can be picked up on top of Monica Chamnesses’ desk at Childcare at any time. Preschool does not start until late September and if this process is not completed before August 9th then the family can complete the enrollment process and pick up the card at a later date with Michael. QUESTIONS? EMAIL: mvendiola@swinomish.nsn.us PHONE: (360) 466.7317
NEW Driver’s Relicensing Program at the Swinomish TERO Office! Is your driver’s license suspended or revoked? Do you have fines and fees holding up your license? We have great news for you — the Swinomish Tribe partnered with Northwest Justice Project to offer a driver relicensing program!
COMMUNITY HAPPENINGS JULY 19 Community Dinner | 6pm @ Youth Center JULY 21 UPDATED DATE! Swinomish Landing Paddle to Lummi
The new program offers free legal help from an attorney who is familiar with the court system and can negotiate fines and fees, and hopefully get your license back. You do not even have to know where all of your tickets are because the program’s legal team can find out for you.
Time TBD on the Tide JULY 24-28 Paddle to Lummi
All you need to do to jump on this great opportunity is to fill out an application at the Swinomish TERO office at 11373 Moorage Way. You may even qualify for additional financial assistance in paying off some of your fees. Space is limited so sign up now! Call Rachel Phair at the TERO office at (360) 466.7232 with your questions.
AUGUST 9-11 Swinomish Days *Community Dinners are subject to change
Happy Fourth of July!
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HONORING THE SEASON OF SALMON
2019 BLESSING OF THE FLEET & FIRST SALMON CEREMONY Emma Fox, Communications
May 16 — Enthusiasm was in great supply as community members came together for the annual procession down Reservation Road and Pioneer Parkway during this year's Blessing of the Fleet & First Salmon Ceremony. Drum beats and song filled the air as Chairman Brian Cladoosby climbed into a truck bed in pursuit of the perfect camera angle. Community members poured into the street, surrounding the chosen eight honored with carrying the physical blessings to the water. These individuals hold another honored position in the community this year: as high school graduates. As Jasmine Cayou, Alicia Guerrero-Gobert, Leeanndra John Cayou, Mary Cisneros, Alexandria Bill, Victor Bailey, Chad John, and Raven Edwards carried these blessings, they also carried forth the significance of this tradition, revived in the early 1970s by Morris Dan and Harriet Shelton Dover. In the words of Chairman Cladoosby, this important ceremony is “a monumental time of year when we ask our Creator to take care of the fishermen, to watch over the waters, and to provide thanks for the salmon that sustains our culture, economies, and health.” 8 sw d bš qyuuqs News
Holle Edwards marches with her son, Swinomish Jr. Warrior Russell Gould, while holding her daughter Drea Gould.
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Back row: Jasmine Cayou, Alicia Guerrero-Gobert, Leeanndra John Cayou, Mary Cisneros. Front row: Alexandria Bill, Victor Bailey, Chad John, Raven Edwards
Jimbo Bobb
Jackie Edwards and Barb James raise their hands to the men and women of the Swinomish fishing fleet.
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Sobriety Dinner MAY 07 — As the cooks brought out the evening’s buffet signaling the formal start of dinner, emcee Sarah Gray spoke about her journey to sobriety. Barb James followed her words with a prayer and then the elders were called to get in line first for dinner. Honored guest speaker Jeremy Wilbur was called to share his story once everyone settled into their seats to enjoy their meal. Jeremy interacted with the audience first, and noticed that Gus Siddle was sitting close to the stage. Jeremy announced that Gus was celebrating his first complete year of sobriety that day. Gus was given the opportunity to speak and his smile said everything! The microphone was returned to Jeremy and the room fell silent as he told his sobriety story. Stories are a way to get to know someone, an insight into how they view their own story, using their own voice. Jeremy’s story touched almost everyone in the room because it was relatable to what it’s like to grow up here in Swinomish.
Sarah Gray
Barbara James
Jeremy Wilbur
Gus Siddle
Sally Wilbur
Sophie Bailey
Swinomish Prevention and Recreation staff tallied the evening’s votes and the winners for the sobriety recognitions were announced: Sally Wilbur won the Joe Dunn Sobriety Recognition Award and Sophie Bailey won the Elder Recognition award. Congratulations Sally and Sophie!
“The best way out is always through.” Robert Frost
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THE EDUCATION DINNER MAY 7 — Several eagles made all sorts of noise outside the Youth Center building, adding to the energy and pride for the students being honored that day. The Swinomish Education Dinner brings people together who are committed to helping students achieve academically—La Conner School District and Swinomish Education Department staff, parents,
CJ Edwards, Josephina Adams hold up their high academic achievement award.
Students who are going into the 6th Grade!
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families, friends, the community; they were all there to support our students! The evening saw honors handed out for student achievements including attendance; grade point average; music and arts; students moving up a grade; and for those graduating eighth grade and beyond! In a blink of an eye, it seems the innocently gleaning preschoolers are smartphone holding grade schoolers;
developing fifth graders have evolved into middle schoolers; crazy eighth graders are freshmen; high school grads are young adults; and all the college grads are on cloud nine!
Education is key! Congratulations to all of the students that were honored!
Students who are going into kindergarten!
Kennedy Miller and Leila Crume hold up their high academic achievement award.
Northwest Indian College
GRADUATION
Left to Right: Denise Willup, Melinda Edwards, Delia Kaubin, Dean Dan Jr., Alexandria Bill, Carrie Bill, Clarissa James. Photo Courtesy of Gaylene Gobert
La Conner High School
GRADUATION
Swinomish Canoe Family sings a blessing song at the La Conner High School Graduation.
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Meet the New Mental Health Coordinator! Julia Ortiz, Medical Clinic
Hello! My name is Julia Ortiz. I joined the Swinomish Medical Clinic team as your mental health coordinator on April 22.
Julia Ortiz
My indigenous roots include Azteca/ Mexica and Mayan. While I am originally from San Francisco, I have lived in Washington since 1975 and have lived on or near the Lummi Nation since 1979 and “married in” in 1980. I grew up at Lummi and that is my community. I have two grown children, eight grandchildren, and I care for my 92-year-old dad.
I have over 35 years of experience in the field of behavioral health and believe in taking the indigenous approach whenever possible. I am here to listen and learn so that we can provide quality services to the people of Swinomish. My door is always open. Hy’swe’qe \0/
Meet Heidi Darling! The New Migrant Student Advocate At La Conner Schools Andy Wheeler
Heidi Darling joins the La Conner High School as a student advocate, supporting secondary students enrolled in the Migrant Education Program under part C of Title I of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act.
Heidi Darling
Heidi assists students with the academic and non-instructional support they need to succeed in school by tracking their attendance and academic progress leading to the goal of graduation. She also helps students enroll in sponsored activities, including the Native American Arts Academy and Dare to Dream. Heidi communicates with La Conner families to determine if they are eligible for the program, which applies to both new and renewing families. You will often see her at community events talking to families and students. “I’m enjoying my new position. I love being active in my home community, communicating with families, and giving back to our local youth through educational support, helping them keep on track to graduate,” Heidi said.
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Heidi graduated from Lake Washington High School where she enjoyed participating in many sports. She trained and worked in a variety of schools, including La Conner and other therapist settings, throughout her 15-year career. Most recently, she worked in Skagit and Island counties as a special education para educator, a one-on-one autism therapist, and service alternatives counselor. Heidi is now back in the La Conner District doing what she loves most— helping students reach their full potential and providing unique educational opportunities. She also enjoys supporting her community through volunteering. Heidi is the coach of a little league softball team and a Special Olympics basketball team. She also DJ’s throughout the year at many local events.
If you would like to contact Heidi for student support or to discuss program eligibility, please email her at hdarling@ lc.k12.wa.us or call (360) 466.3173.
Youth are less likely to use marijuana when they understand the facts, and when supportive adults empower them to make good choices. Set the stage for an open dialogue with your youth today.
Did you know that the human brain continues to develop until the age of 25? Marijuana is extremely harmful to a developing brain! It impacts intelligence, memory, judgment, and impulse control. Additionally, first and second-hand marijuana smoke can lead to significant lung tissue damage. Marijuana use puts your child at an increased risk for addiction, which will impact their performance in family life, school, sports, and work. An arrest for underage possession, disorderly conduct, or consuming marijuana in public will limit their future career choices.
Set clear rules and expectations, and enforce consequences when they are broken. Listen to what your youth has to say and be open to discuss any questions they have. Remind your youth that statistics show the majority of their peers choose not to use. Focus on their goals to encourage them to identify their own reasons not to use. Stay informed together about the health effects of underage marijuana use.
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TIDE TABLE: August 2019
Lone Tree, Snee-Oosh, North Skagit Bay | Department of Environmental Protection
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Thu 01 Fri 02 Sat 03 Sun 04 Mon 05 Tue 06 Wed 07 Thu 08 Fri 09 Sat 10 Sun 11 Mon 12 Tue 13 Wed 14 Thu 15 Fri 16 Sat 17 Sun 18 Mon 19 Tue 20 Wed 21 Thu 22 Fri 23 Sat 24 Sun 25 Mon 26 Tue 27 Wed 28 Thu 29 Fri 30 Sat 31
High
00:25 10.71 ft 01:19 10.25 ft 02:16 9.89 ft 03:11 9.67 ft 04:01 9.55 ft
00:17 9.54 ft 01:16 9.53 ft 02:18 9.73 ft 03:18 10.09 ft 04:15 10.49 ft 05:10 10.78 ft
Low
High
00:19 6.06 ft 01:07 5.47 ft 01:56 4.75 ft 02:47 3.95 ft 03:41 3.11 ft 04:38 2.31 ft 05:37 1.57 ft 06:40 0.91 ft 07:42 0.34 ft 08:40 −0.14 ft 09:33 −0.51 ft 10:20 −0.73 ft 11:02 −0.83 ft 00:12 5.61 ft 00:45 5.32 ft 01:14 4.98 ft 01:43 4.58 ft 02:14 4.10 ft 02:48 3.57 ft 03:25 3.03 ft 04:06 2.51 ft 04:52 2.01 ft 05:43 1.51 ft 06:39 0.97 ft 07:38 0.34 ft 08:38 −0.36 ft 09:33 −1.07 ft 10:25 −1.64 ft 11:14 −1.93 ft 12:01 −1.86 ft 00:43 3.67 ft
05:10 10.79 ft 06:04 10.75 ft 07:00 10.50 ft 08:00 10.03 ft 09:06 9.41 ft 10:18 8.79 ft 11:42 8.37 ft 13:23 8.40 ft 15:08 8.99 ft 16:25 9.79 ft 17:20 10.43 ft 18:02 10.79 ft 18:36 10.91 ft 04:46 9.49 ft 05:28 9.44 ft 06:08 9.38 ft 06:48 9.27 ft 07:30 9.11 ft 08:14 8.89 ft 09:03 8.64 ft 09:58 8.38 ft 11:02 8.19 ft 12:20 8.18 ft 13:52 8.50 ft 15:21 9.13 ft 16:22 9.82 ft 17:05 10.42 ft 17:41 10.90 ft 18:16 11.27 ft 18:50 11.54 ft 06:06 10.89 ft
Low
High
12:20 −2.84 ft 13:06 −2.64 ft 13:53 −2.01 ft 14:40 −0.96 ft 15:29 0.43 ft 16:20 2.04 ft 17:19 3.67 ft 18:31 5.08 ft 20:02 5.98 ft 21:32 6.25 ft 22:40 6.13 ft 23:32 5.89 ft
19:32 11.63 ft 20:09 11.85 ft 20:48 11.97 ft 21:26 11.98 ft 22:07 11.85 ft 22:49 11.59 ft 23:35 11.19 ft
11:40 −0.80 ft 12:16 −0.66 ft 12:51 −0.39 ft 13:25 0.03 ft 14:00 0.63 ft 14:35 1.42 ft 15:12 2.38 ft 15:51 3.46 ft 16:36 4.60 ft 17:33 5.65 ft 18:52 6.44 ft 20:22 6.74 ft 21:35 6.58 ft 22:29 6.11 ft 23:15 5.43 ft 23:59 4.60 ft
19:03 10.89 ft 19:26 10.84 ft 19:47 10.81 ft 20:10 10.82 ft 20:36 10.83 ft 21:05 10.76 ft 21:36 10.60 ft 22:09 10.35 ft 22:45 10.04 ft 23:27 9.74 ft
Sunrise Sunset Moonrise Moonset
12:48 −1.36 ft 19:25 11.71 ft
5:44 5:46 5:47 5:48 5:50 5:51 5:52 5:54 5:55 5:57 5:58 5:59 6:01 6:02 6:03 6:05 6:06 6:08 6:09 6:10 6:12 6:13 6:14 6:16 6:17 6:19 6:20 6:21 6:23 6:24 6:26
20:47 20:45 20:44 20:42 20:41 20:39 20:38 20:36 20:34 20:32 20:31 20:29 20:27 20:26 20:24 20:22 20:20 20:18 20:17 20:15 20:13 20:11 20:09 20:07 20:05 20:03 20:01 19:59 19:57 19:55 19:54
6:14 7:36 8:58 10:19 11:37 12:53 14:07 15:19 16:27 17:30 18:26 19:14 19:54 20:28 20:56 21:20 21:42 22:02 22:22 22:42 23:05 23:31
0:03 0:42 1:31 2:33 3:45 5:05 6:28 7:52
DID YOU KNOW?
SPREAD YOUR WINGS •
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Monarch butterflies migrate some 2,500 miles each year in search of warmer temperatures, as butterflies are coldblooded and cannot withstand freezing weather. They migrate north again in the spring because the plants that feed their young do not grow in their winter sites. The wingspan of butterflies range from 1/8 of an inch to 12 inches! The fastest butterfly flies 12 miles an hour. Butterflies cannot fly if their body temperature is less than 86 degrees. A butterfly's skeleton is on the outside of their body, and is called an exoskeleton. There are approximately 24,000 known species of butterflies. Source: thebutterflysite.com
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EDITORIAL THEMES August •
Focus
Sepember •
Preparedness
October •
Hardship
November/December •
Solitude
If any of these topics interests you, please submit your article, story or photo by email to qyuuqs@swinomish.nsn.us.
21:35 22:09 22:37 23:03 23:28 23:54 0:22 0:53 1:29 2:12 3:01 3:57 4:57 5:59 7:02 8:06 9:09 10:12 11:15 12:20 13:26 14:34 15:42 16:48 17:49 18:42 19:27 20:04 20:35 21:03
WHAT'S UP DOC? Dr. Monica Carillo
Fireworks Season: Practice Safety First!
Sun Protection: Act Against Skin Cancer
Are you at risk for an emergency room visit during fireworks season? Take this quiz and see.
Canoe pulling, fishing, and crabbing season is here, which means more exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun. The dangers of unprotected skin exposure are significant: Without protection, the sun’s UV rays can damage your skin in as little as 15 minutes.
• If my firework fails, I try to light it again. • I carry fireworks in my pocket. • I light a firework while standing in front of it rather than from the side. • After lighting a firework I lean over and watch instead of backing away. • I don’t look to see where the fireworks are aimed before lighting them. • I don’t keep a bucket of water handy. • I light firecrackers or rockets in bottles or buckets. • I don’t soak used fireworks with water before I go inside. • I am a boy between the ages of 10-14 years old. • I am younger than 10 years old and play with fireworks. • I let children under 7 years old play with sparklers that burn at 2000 degrees, which is hot enough to melt some types of metal.
Skin damage, including sunburns and tanning, increase your risk of skin cancer. Damage to your skin from UV exposure adds up over time, so consistent sun protection from an early age is important. If you don't include sun protection in your daily routine, it’s not too late to start. As you prepare for the upcoming summer holidays and activities, make sure sun protection with a hat, long sleeves, and sunscreen is included in your planning so that you can enjoy outdoor activities safely. Keep sunscreen in your tackle box, glove compartment, and your summer go-to bags.
None of the items marked: You are a safety STAR! 1-2 items marked: Good job! Enjoy fireworks season with caution. 3-5 items marked: Even if you are an adult, you would be wise to have supervision when using fireworks. 6-9 items marked: Let others work with the fireworks, you should just stand back and enjoy. 10-11 items marked: You might as well book a room in the ER ahead of time. Did you know? About two-thirds of the 11,000 to 13,000 firework-related injuries reported each year happen between mid-June to mid-July, and most of those injured are boys ages 10-14 years old. Fireworks are exciting, but the experience can turn tragic in seconds causing serious burns, amputations, and eye injuries. You can help prevent firework-related injuries and deaths by taking precautions. STAY SAFE and HAVE A FUN ON JULY 4TH! sw d bš qyuuqs News
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BEING FRANK
FISHERIES MANAGEMENT MORE CHALLENGING EVERY YEAR
hatchery production is needed to help them survive.
Meanwhile, California sea lion and harbor seal populations in Western Washington have exploded in recent Lorraine Loomis, NWIFC Chair years. It’s gotten to the point that they are eating over six times more salmon than are harvested by Indian polite and try to meet each other’s I’ve said the same thing each April and non-Indian fishermen. The coneeds while protecting weak stocks for the past 35 years: This was the managers agree that we must gather and ensuring that enough adult data on the populations, diets, and most challenging North of Falcon salmon escape harvest to sustain the ecological impacts of seals and sea process we’ve ever had. Every next generation. lions in the region to ensure their year that’s true as the tribal and management supports recovery state salmon co-managers’ job of Our biggest challenge has always been developing fisheries in the face efforts for salmon and southern sharing and rebuilding a steadily resident killer whales. of ongoing salmon habitat loss and shrinking resource becomes more damage. We’re still losing habitat The job of managing salmon isn’t difficult. faster than we can restore it. going to get easier soon. That Since 1984, the state and treaty means every management decision But that the main cause for the tribal salmon co-managers have that the tribes and state take as decline of salmon populations gathered each spring for the North co-managers requires increasingly throughout the region is now being of Falcon process to develop fishing careful consideration and closer complicated by climate change, seasons that meet the conservation coordination. southern resident orcas, and an needs of ESA-listed salmon runs explosion of seal and sea lion A strong step in that direction came while providing limited fishing populations. with the recent appointment of opportunities. Kelly Susewind as director of the Whether spawned naturally or in a As usual, it’s a mixed bag of hatchery, salmon need plenty of cold Washington Department of Fish and returns for 2019. More coho are Wildlife. Although new to the world water. Climate change led to a blob expected to return, but poor returns of salmon management, he provided of warm water that persisted along of Stillaguamish, Nooksack, and strong leadership during the North of the Washington coast for several mid-Hood Canal Chinook will limit Falcon process to help the tribes and fisheries in some areas. Low returns years and resulted in record low state meet our shared conservation of naturally spawning chum and pink salmon returns. Drought conditions challenges. caused by climate change in recent salmon also are a forecast. years left many Washington streams That kind of cooperation between North of Falcon is named for the running low with high temperatures the tribes and state always has been Oregon coast cape that marks that can be lethal to salmon. and always will be the key to healthy the southern boundary of the salmon populations. The needs of southern resident management area for Washington orcas must also factor into salmon salmon stocks, which extends north Being Frank is a monthly column written season decision-making by the coto the Canadian border. by the chair of the Northwest Indian managers. Like the Chinook salmon Fisheries Commission. As a statement While the process for setting salmon they depend on, their population from the NWIFC chair, the column seasons can be highly complex, the continues to steadily decline. The represents the interests and concerns of rules for getting there are simple: Be tribes and state agree that increased treaty Indian tribes throughout western Washington.
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Rainbow over the Swinomish aglands Photo Courtesy of Joe Quintasket
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TRY NEW THINGS Caroline Edwards, qyuuqs News Editor
It takes a great deal of effort to walk past the very boundaries I set for myself. I experience the same feeling every time: My stomach begins to ache with excitement, erupting with the feeling of butterflies! Trying new things that are outside of my comfort zone is not a challenge I easily accept and conquer. The kind of thrill I’m speaking of is jumping off a 50-foot cliff into the water, bungee jumping off a bridge, skydiving from an airplane, para-gliding from the top of a mountain! Let me be clear, I’ve never done any of these things; those are extreme levels of comfort zones I would be breaking through! I’m the kind of person that can speak in front of a large group of people with no speech prepared. The point I’m trying to make is that everyone's fears are different; sometimes we need to break through those fears to experience it just once. When was the last time you did something far out of your comfort zone!? Foreign Food
It’s been a dream of mine to explore a foreign country like Asia, specifically to eat their traditional food. Yum, can you smell all of the spices and yummy broths? I’m not too thrilled to eat raw food, but I'm willing to experience it. I’m willing to try foreign food, are you? 20 sw d bš qyuuqs News e e
Traditional Food
I remember when I was a child my father would share with me a new kind of food I’ve never ate. He fed me salmon, crab, prawns, shrimp, halibut, ling cod, clams, elk, and venison. I was fortunate at that age to experience tasting our traditional foods. At that time it was all new to me. I realize now why he introduced those foods to me. When my inner spirit wishes for these foods today, I seek guidance from my dad. I am continually learning how to fish and how to fi llet a salmon, halibut, ling cod, and cook and clean crab and clams. These teachings would never exist if I had not gone outside of my comfort zone and tried the traditional foods that my dad introduced to me. I recently tried geoduck for the first time last month, it’s sweet and delicious! Do you enjoy eating traditional food from the Salish Sea? I encourage you to try a type of food you have never eaten before! Create Something with Your Hands
I’m always amazed at what my small tiny hands can create! I always tell people that I have my mother’s hands. When was the last time you picked up a pencil to write a letter or draw to express? Do you bead? When was the last time you learned a new stitch technique? Do you sew? When was the last time you picked up new or used fabric? Time is quick to consume the day, slow things down by creating something new with your hands. Spread Your Wings
Whether you are the thrill seeker that para-glides or if you're like me and can conquer things such as public speeches, spread your wings! I'm ready to break through my fears; try breaking through your own and see where it leads you!
“Jump, and you will find out how to unfold your wings as you fall.” -Ray Bradbury
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Meet the New VISTA Native Food Sovereignty Fellow Samantha Martinez, Community Environmental Health Program
Hello! My name is Samantha Martinez and I am the new VISTA native food sovereignty fellow at Swinomish. I will work in the Community Environmental Health department for the next year under the guidance of Larry Campbell, Jamie Donatuto, and Myk Heidt promoting local, healthy, and traditional foods. My work will include monthly workshops; working with youth and volunteers to grow the 13 Moons community gardens at Northwest Indian College; providing samples of first foods at community events; finding ways to increase healthy food options available on the reservation; and doing my best to share passion for overall health and wellbeing. I grew up in the woods near a small lake in northern Wisconsin. My dad works for the state forest, hunted deer, and caught fish for our family. Bluegills, pumpkinseeds, crappies, northern pike, large and small mouth bass all made for delicious harvests. My mom is a nurturer, loves plants, and taught me how to treat oÂŹÂŹthers with patience and kindness. Like so many today, our family has experienced struggles with addiction, poor health, and heartache, but I am thankful for the strength and perspective that comes with it. I worked my way through college and received a degree in Spanish, ethnobotany, and environmental studies. I worked as an environmental programmer in the dorms where I went to school, as a fitness instructor, in the university greenhouses, and was the manager of the ethnobotanical garden on campus. I moved to the Sonoran Desert to work for a non-profit seed conservation organization that focuses on preserving the traditional agricultural crops adapted to arid environments after I completed my college education. Through this organization, I had the privilege to organize traditional food and seed sovereignty gatherings with many Native communities and individuals throughout the Southwest. I learned about the abundance of seeds, the stories they carry, and what importance they have for all of us regarding food and health in our future. I watched my own family members suffer for years from obesity, diabetes, and heart disease. My empowering experiences in school and the Southwest taught me that some of the purest forms of healing and growth for our bodies come from savoring the blessings found in 22 sw d bĹĄ qyuuqs News
healthy, local foods and traditional seeds. I believe in food sovereignty and independence from the sickening "standard American diet" for tribal communities and First Nations throughout Indian Country. I also believe that maintaining a connection to the land by hunting, fishing, gathering, planting, drying, and preparing traditional foods will strengthen people and sustain food traditions for future generations. By creating space for elders to share their knowledge, individuals, families, and communities have great power to restore identity as well as physical and spiritual health. My purpose is to support common goals in the Swinomish Tribal Community. I will do my best to listen and better understand the beauty, history, and hardships of this people and its place. I know that good things take time, and believe that everyone should be able to live the way that they choose. I want to express my gratitude for the opportunity to be here, and say thanks for taking the time to read this introduction. I look forward to seeing you around soon!
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Meet The New VISTA Native Food Sovereignty Summer Associate Anna Cook, Community Environmental Health Program
As a Swinomish Tribal member I look forward to the projects we have planned this summer for the community. I will assist with the Elder’s Clambake, the Annual Clambake, the creation of the 13 Moons First Foods Curriculum for pre-school age, as well as working in and around the 13 Moons Garden at Northwest Indian College’s Swinomish site. I am eager identify plants and their medicinal uses so we can utilize them in our community workshops. I will also learn how Swinomish is adapting to climate change, and further explore why food sovereignty is important to our community.
In my first week we made first aid kits for canoe pullers of this year’s Canoe Journey. We also made swamp tea and gathered fresh herbs and greens for the elder lunch. For my first harvest this summer we were able to identify eight different species and learned their uses. As we gathered these plants I was reminded of how precious harvesting is. I realized there are many lessons the plants want to teach us. I’m grateful that job will allow me engage with nature in new ways. I’m excited to help engage the community, as well, on my journey of learning about our first foods.
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Hello! My name is Anna Cook and I am a Swinomish Indian Tribal Community member. I am currently a student at The Evergreen State College and will be heading into my senior year as an undergraduate this coming fall with a focus on Native American studies. This summer I’m grateful to have the opportunity to be a Native food sovereignty summer associate working in the Community Health Program with Myk Heidt, Jamie Donatuto, and Larry Campbell.
SWINOMISH CAMAS DIG Myk Heidt, Community Environmental Health Coordinator
This year’s camas dig happened earlier than expected due to the readiness of wild spring plants and flowers, which is attributed to the warm and drier than average spring. Adapting to climate change means harvesters need to be aware of the plant life around them and are ready to harvest at any time. Our adult harvesters included Dean Dan Jr., Lyn Bebee, and myself. Swinomish Youth Spirit Program participants joined us and enjoyed listening to Dean tell the creation story called Sun, Moon, and Stars that also teaches about camas. While Dean shared the story, students cleaned and strung camas bulbs, which were then hung to dry and
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stored in a traditional way. You can see them hanging in Larry Campbell’s office window in the Social Services Building. We will make a traditional soup of camas, nettle, and salmon to share at a future community event. We also showed youth how to differentiate death camas from edible camas. An elder shared the story, which we retold, that long ago when women saw camas blooming and they did not have time to harvest it right away, they would tie strings on the plant’s edible blue flowers. When they came back in the fall and the blooms were gone they could still safely harvest the edible camas by digging only bulbs that had a string tied to their stalks. Death camas
sometimes grows amongst the blue edible camas. It has a white flower and is very toxic. We emphasized to the youth the importance of only harvesting bulbs that have the blue camas flower attached. Camas was once as valued as salmon for trading in Coast Salish territory. There has been a resurgence in recent times bringing camas back to the indigenous table. Swinomish has a good harvestable area for camas on the Martha’s Beach cliff trail. The Department of Environmental Protection provides excellent work removing scotch broom and is furthering restoration efforts in the area to ensure camas will continue to thrive for future harvesting.
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SWINOMISH INVITED TO SKOKOMISH
Samantha Martinez, VISTA Native Food Sovereignty Fellow; Myk Heidt, Community Environmetal Health Coordinator
The conference began and ended with a feast of traditional healthy dishes. It is impossible to list all the flavors and ingredients, but a few favorites included: steamed nettles and camas; crab and shrimp quiche; a dish made of venison, squash, and cranberry; smoked salmon spreads; corn, chile, and elk stew; soapberry ice cream; black moss pudding; oyster stew; berry buckles; and traditional herbal teas. The useful traditional foods information provided between meals was equally inspiring. Content ranged from talks by experts about the importance of nutrition for mothers and breastfeeding; a film screening of a Pueblo community that underwent a three-month diet and lifestyle challenge to only eat decolonized (preEuropean contact) or traditional foods; community
spotlight panels; and breakout sessions. This was an open-conversation style event where people from various tribes openly shared the struggles and successes they witness in their own communities. There was always space for someone to speak. Event giveaway items from Swinomish included traditional foods and medicines. Tino and Becky Villaluz provided elk land jaeger and elk pepperoni (both shelfstable products) and kippered sockeye samples. Myk Heidt offered PNW wildflower raw honey samples, which is an excellent facial cleanser and moisturizer as well as healing agent for blemishes and burns. All of these items were so popular we ran out the first day! Some event takeaways, teachings, and ideas we would like to share with the Swinomish Community in the near future include: plant teachings and social emotional skills; traditional tribal food share; sharing foods between tribes; and protecting sacred foods. We wish to thank the Skokomish Tribe for inviting us into their community for this event and the NPAIHB who invited and paid for hotel rooms for any tribal members who were able to attend.
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Over 200 people attended this year’s Northwest Tribal Food Sovereignty Gathering hosted by the Skokomish Tribe. There was representation from over 20 different tribes, mostly from the Pacific Northwest region. Lona Wilbur; Lenora and Anna Cook; Valentino and Becky Villaluz; Myk Heidt; and Samantha Martinez attended on behalf of Swinomish.
Swinomish Preschool Graduation
CLASS OF 2032
JUNE 13 — The Youth Center study hall room filled up quickly with the parents and families of the graduating students. Joe McCoy opened the graduation with a prayer, and the Swinomish Canoe Family sang a blessing song. John Haley presented certificates to 23 students that day! Congratulations to the students who are moving on to Kindergarten!
Photo Courtesy of James Washington
KINDERGARTEN JUMP START KINDERGARTEN PARENTS: Did you get your Kindergarten Jump Start letter in the mail? Kindergarten Jump Start Begins: DATE: August 5-15 TIME: 9AM-12PM LOCATION: La Conner Elementary School Questions? Please call the La Conner Elementray School (360) 466-3172 and ask about the Kindergarten Jump Start! 26 sw d bš qyuuqs News
A PICTURE IS WORTH A THOUSAND WORDS! TELL US YOUR STORY! qyuuqs Submission Deadline 10th of Every Month Please submit to: qyuuqs@swinomish.nsn.us Questions? Please email qyuuqs@ swinomish.nsn.us or call (360) 466.7258.
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Toddler Moving Up Ceremony MAY 30—Toddler moving up festivities began in the early evening as music and laughter filled the air for those approaching the cedar hat pavilion closest to the Swadabs playground. The toddlers danced under the beautiful wooden hat, presumably wondering why everyone was smiling so big as they showed off their dance moves. Sharks and mermaids punctuated the theme of this year’s event! Medicine Bear shared a blessing song and after everyone settled a bit, the “moving up” toddlers who wore paper “cedar” graduation hats received beach buckets full of toys. The younger participants who are still growing and continuing in the toddler or waddler programs wore hats and received gift bags. Most of the class participated in sharing songs such as Baby Shark and the One Little Finger song! Cupcakes and juice were provided to all as a post-ceremony treat.
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Science Corner
Kukutali Update
Karen Mitchell, Environmental Protection
Have you had a chance to visit the restored Kukutali tombolo yet? Swinomish Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) removed much of the roadway along the tombolo connecting Kukutali to the “mainland” last August. The winter tides and storms moved the sediment and driftwood within the restored area—it is exciting to watch the tombolo evolve naturally!
Before restoration, the roadway was built up and armored with large blocks of rip-rap stone to prevent water, sediment, and driftwood from moving across the tombolo as they would under natural conditions. With the roadway removed, fish, driftwood, and sediment can now move freely across the tombolo at high tides. DEP sees the beach evolving as sand and gravel move up and over the restored area.
DEP staff monitor the restored tombolo and document changes. Staff established a monitoring transect before the construction took place, for comparison to postrestoration observations. This transect is a survey line that crosses the tombolo at its narrowest, lowest point. Elevation is measured using a laser survey instrument at specific points along this line, spaced two to five meters apart. The sediment at each of these points is systematically characterized so we can observe shifts in the grain size and distribution of material on the beach.
Surveys show that over time the tombolo is slowly building up, with small gravel accumulating and moving along the crest. Staff are also noticing more sand on the north side of the tombolo, feeding a stretch of beach that was not evolving as sand prior to restoration. All these positive changes should help to provide higher quality habitat for forage fish and other wildlife. Monitoring will continue for at least a few years as this area continues to evolve and change.
The DEP monitoring transect crossed the roadway prior to restoration, stretching over the rip-rap and accumulated driftwood down onto the beach on the south side of the tombolo.
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After restoration, the same transect lies smoothly on beach material over the tombolo crest, and shows gravel migrating along and over the tombolo.
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At higher high tides, the lowest part of the tombolo may be submerged by up to two to three feet of water. This allows driftwood to float free, sediment to wash up the beach, and potential fish passage across the tombolo.
Elder Intertribal Luncheon Hosted by Swinomish
JUNE 03 — Elders from various tribes gathered at the northend in the Swinomish Casino & Lodge. Michael Vendiola and Marcus Joe were the Emcees. Thank you to the Swinomish Senior Center for hosting an event full of good laughs and great company.
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BASKETBALL Photos Courtesy of Greg Edswards
Swinomish 8 & Under Youth Basketball team
12 & Under Girls team
Salish Rebels 12 & Under
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LA CONNER SOROPTIMIST
VOLUNTEER FOR THE MONTH Congratulations Kailiana Bill, Soroptimist Volunteer for May! Kaliana (who also goes by Kali) is finishing her freshman year at La Conner High School. She is the elected ASB Secretary for her upcoming sophomore year and is a member of the La Conner Key Club. Kaliana finds it pleasing to contribute to others and has volunteered at the fall chowder feed at school, high school math night, and Relay For Life. She has attended Swinomish community dinners since she was a little girl and now volunteers at the monthly event by helping with food preparation. Kaliana likes all of her classes and teachers, but her two favorites are math and shop/carving. She enjoys the creative side of shop class and carving. Kali also enjoyed her recreation sports class which prepared for sports. Kali is an active athlete who has participated in basketball, soccer, softball, track, and wrestling. She plans to continue with soccer, softball, and wrestling.
Kaliana has always lived in La Conner. She lives with her mother Talia Bill and her younger sisters Serena and Zamara who both attend La Conner Elementary School. Kali is already planning for her future! She is interested in joining the military. She would also like to attend college and Kailiana Bill study abroad, as she likes the idea of learning about a different culture as part of her college education. Kali has many goals and is dedicated to achieving each of them. Kaliana has received a gift certificate to Vintage La Conner Thrift and Consignment shop, a Soroptimist shop run by volunteers for the benefit of women and students in the community.
Swinomish Hosts Joint Education Meeting Michael Vendiola, Education Director
Present at the meeting were Senators Brian Cladoosby, Brian Porter, Sophie Bailey, Barbara James, Brian Wilbur, Leon John, Kevin Paul, School Board members Janie Beasley, Kate Szurek, Brad Smith, Susan Deyo, and administrative staff Superintendent Whitney Meissner, and Education Director Michael Vendiola. In addition, members of the Swinomish Education Subcommittee, Swinomish staff, and La Conner School District staff were also in attendance.
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The Swinomish Education Department hosted a joint meeting between the Swinomish Senate and La Conner School District School Board on January 17. Three main agenda items drove this discussion: Acknowledging the longstanding relationship between the Tribe and district; review of the district’s academic data as related to American Indian/Alaska Native students; and the goal of a shared vision statement to build upon the ongoing relationship. The meeting was the second of a committed three meetings a year between the Tribe and district.
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Monthly Money Matters TURN DREAMS INTO REALITY Dear Sally Savings, I was recently crushed when I proposed to my girlfriend who I’ve been dating for two years. Would you believe she won’t marry me because I have no retirement savings? I’d never heard anything so crazy in my life because we’re young and get along great. What’s the big deal? Retirement is a long ways away, and I have bills to pay now. Help! Signed, Jilted Native Brother Dear Jilted, Sorry to hear you were rejected, but saving for retirement is a big deal and your girlfriend has every right to be hesitant if you aren’t planning for future financial security. Doing so means that once you retire, you will have the income to follow your dreams and turn them into reality! You and whomever you have in your life will be able to spread your wings and venture into the world without any worries. There’s a lot of people whose golden years will look like rusted tin if they do not have sufficient funds to make their dreams become reality. Statistics can be a bore though, but let me just say that in many Native communities retirement planning is not something that families talk about often enough. It’s also especially difficult when, as you mention, there are bills making it tough enough just to get by. The reality for most folks is that there will come a day when, either by choice or necessity, we’ll need retirement savings. The good news is that you’re young and time is on your side. So don’t wait, start saving today because retirement will be here before you can say “shoulda put a ring on It!” After all, when your worries are taken care of you can freely spread your wings and fly! Saving for retirement is easier than ever. Do you have an employer-sponsored retirement program, like a 401(k)? If so, you can direct a portion of your earnings each pay period into a special tax-friendly investment account. Some employers even match your savings up to a certain amount, which is basically free money in your pocket! Don’t be afraid to take advantage of the contributions and have positive feelings for the betterment of your future. For folks who are self-employed or work somewhere that doesn’t offer a retirement program, there are other options including an Individual Retirement Account (IRA) that you can use to invest either pre-tax or post-tax earnings, depending on what your needs are. IRAs are available through most banks and investment firms and can be opened with as little as a couple hundred dollars. You may never know when you will need these finances in the future. A good rule of thumb is that a person should have roughly five times their salary in retirement savings by age 55 and eight times his or her salary when ready to retire. Totally doable if you get started now and try to contribute between ten and twenty percent of your earnings each year. So what are you waiting for? Make dreams become reality and spread your wings and fly to new adventures! Signed, Sally Savings
This article was provided by First Nations Development Institute with assistance from the FINRA Investor Education Foundation. For more information, visit www.firstnations.org. To send a question to Dr. Per Cap, email askdrpercap@ firstnations.org.
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LAW DAY 2019 Weston LeMay
Swinomish Participates In Swinomish Recognized Celebrating Law Day At Liberty Bell Dinner In 1961, President Eisenhower declared May 1 as “Law Day” to bring attention to the importance of law and justice in the United States. Bar associations and legal organizations across the country hold annual events to celebrate Law Day. In Skagit County, a group of volunteers, organizations, and community partners — including Swinomish — work together to host an annual free legal aid event known as the Law Day Clinic. The Law Day Clinic is a community event connecting members of the public with volunteer legal professionals. The clinic took place on April 29 at the Skagit Transit Center this year. The clinic provided free legal consultations, advice, and other services to 76 clients, delivering more than $7000 worth of legal aid. Swinomish staff who helped organize the event include Alicia Neely, Liz Miller, and Kelly George, who served on the planning committee and also volunteered at the event. In total, 32 volunteer attorneys and 21 volunteer paralegals attended this year’s Law Day Clinic.
The Skagit Bar Association hosts the Liberty Bell Dinner, a Skagit County Law Day tradition, to recognize clinic volunteers and celebrate the organizations and individuals who provide pro bono legal services throughout the year. This year’s guest speaker was Washington Supreme Court Justice Mary Yu, who spoke passionately on “Free Speech, Free Press, Free Society.” Four awards were given at this year’s Liberty Bell dinner. Swinomish paralegals Liz Miller and Kelly George received the Pro Bono Supporter Award for their pro bono contributions in Skagit County. Senator Kevin Paul gave an impromptu speech thanking Swinomish legal staff and the legal community in Skagit County. Swinomish staff Alicia Neely, Liz Miller, and Kelly George have volunteered at the Law Day Clinic for a collective total of 20 years. The Swinomish Senate contributed a charitable donation of $2500 in 2018, which funded the majority of the 2019 Clinic.
2019 Liberty Bell Dinner – Swinomish attendees stand with Washington State Supreme Court Justice Mary Yu. From left to right: Weston LeMay, Melissa Simonsen, Scott Andrews, Senator Kevin Paul, Lauren Henry, Kelly George, Liz Miller, Pat Paul, Hilary Edwards, Rebecca Hall, Justice Mary Yu.
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together and their forehead wrinkles.
Mrs. V’s 2 Cents BEFORE WE "SPREAD OUR WINGS" Diane Vendiola
I think we should be clear on what it means to “spread one’s wings” before I tell you about my journey of spreading my wings. According to the dictionary, to spread wings means to extend one’s activities and interests, or begin new activities and interests. “Easy to say, hard to do.” is what my mother used to say. To me, this meant having to put in extra effort and work! I experienced some life difficulties and hard knocks before I had the courage and confidence to stretch myself beyond my own limitations. Like the time I auditioned for my grade school talent show: I gained courage in my abilities to perform when I was younger by standing in front of large groups in school plays and assemblies. I was a good reader and speller back in the day too. I believe I improved my skills in second and third grade even more by reading the daily Seattle Star to my dad until he fell asleep at night. Or maybe he was just pretending to be asleep? I remember when I read a word wrong or faked one I didn’t know, Dad’s eyes would open right up and he would give me the look. You know, THE look your mom, dad, grandpa, grandma, auntie, or uncle gave you when you were doing something that made them think about you with doubt or disapproval. It’s the look where their eyebrows come
ATTENTION: AFTER-HOURS HOUSING & UTILITY EMERGENCIES
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Anyway, what I learned is that just because I was an ace reader didn’t mean I was a choreographer and dancer. I learned this in fifth grade when I auditioned for the allschool talent show. I choreographed some dance steps to the music of “Anchors Away” with my friend Peggy Ohashi who did a few practice sessions with me but didn’t have time to do many because the school talent show was fast approaching. I put on my dad’s sailor hat and neck scarf and Peggy put a scarf around her neck, and we did our sailor dance. We made it into the talent show where we performed in front of the whole school. We did not win. I lost my confidence, enthusiasm, and hope for ever getting up in front of an audience to do anything after that, let alone improvise a dance to Anchor’s Away. But my mother always said, “There is no free lunch.” That meant that if I was hungry enough I would have to work harder at what I wanted. I tried out for the talent show again the following year. This time my friend Peggy could not accompany me because it was a Latin dance routine and her mother would not give her permission to dance to the Brazilian song Tico Tico. I did not pass the audition. I was in junior high the following year. I played my violin along with other members of the junior orchestra for the school talent show—and we won! Life is a process. Giving yourself permission to be in the process, to take risks and make mistakes, stretching yourself beyond your comfort zone—this is what spreading your wings is all about. You’ve got to keep spreading those wings until the end!
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JULY 2019
ELDERS’ LUNCH 1 MON
2 TUES
3 WED
4 THURS
Ham Macaroni and cheese Mixed vegetables Strawberries
Egg salad sandwich Vegetable soup Jell-o with fruit
NO SERVICE
INDEPENDENCE DAY NO SERVICE
8 MON
9 TUES
10 WED
11 THURS
Chicken patty sandwich Coleslaw Tatar tots Fresh berries
Meat chili Cornbread Vegetable tray with dip Cantaloupe
Fish Potato salad, roll Green beans Fruit salad
Scrambled eggs French toast Frozen berries Vegetable juice
15 MON
16 TUES
17 WED
18 THURS
Meat lasagna Steamed squash French bread Raspberries
BBQ pork ribs Corn on the cob, roll Green beans Watermelon
Fish Rice Mixed vegetables Frozen berries
Ham, egg, cheese English muffin Pineapple Vegetable juice
22 MON
23 TUES
24 WED
25 THURS
Sub sandwich Vegetable tray with dip Potato chips Raspberries
Beef and vegetable stew Oven roll Mixed grapes
Fish Macaroni salad Baked beans Jell-o with fruit
Eggs and sausage Pancake Peaches Vegetable juice
29 MON
30 TUES
31 WED
Chef salad Garlic bread Raspberries
Roasted chicken and gravy Rice Steamed squash Peaches
Fish Red potatoes, roll Glazed carrots Fruit salad
*Lunch served Mon-Thurs. No take away meals until 11AM. Call (360) 466.3980 to cancel home delivery. Milk served with all meals.
Community Dinner July 17
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CURRENT OPEN POSITIONS - As of June 12
To view details about open positions and download our General Employment Application, visit swinomishcasinoandlodge.com/careers. All positions are “Open until filled” unless specified. Email applications to: jobs@swinomishcasino.com Fax applications to: (360) 299.1677 Mail or hand deliver to: Swinomish Casino & Lodge 12885 Casino Drive, Anacortes, WA 98221 Questions? Call Human Resources at (360) 299.1642
FACILITIES CUSTODIAN (FT) FACILITIES MANAGER (FT) HEAVY DUTY CLEANER (FT) MAINTENANCE TECHNICIAN 1 (FT) FINANCE SOFT COUNT CLERK (PT) FOOD & BEVERAGE BANQUET BARTENDER (OC) COCKTAIL SERVER (PT, FT) COOK I (FT) COOK II (FT) CARVER'S CAFE BUSSER (FT) CARVER'S CAFE SERVER (FT) 13 MOONS HOST/HOSTESS (FT) FOOD COURT LINE COOK (PT) FOOD COURT CASHIER (PT)
GAMING KENO RUNNER/WRITER (FT) SLOT TECHNICIAN (FT) TABLE GAMES DEALER (FT) LODGE GUEST SATISFACTION ASSOC. (FT) MARKETING MARKETING INTERN (PT) VIDEOGRAPHER (FT) PROMOTIONS ASSISTANT (FT) SECURITY SECURITY OFFICER (FT)
HUMAN RESOURCES & TRIBAL EMPLOYMENT RIGHTS OFFICE (TERO) JOB OPENINGS • • • • • • • • • •
Certified Medical Assistant Receptionist/ Permit Technician Air Quality Technician Wellness Center: LPN Dosing Nurse Tribal Advocate Applications Developer Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Conservation Technician Intern Staff Attorney Police Officer - Entry Level or Lateral
Full descriptions of the job announcements listed above are available on the Swinomish website: swinomish-nsn.gov/resources/human-resources HOW TO APPLY: Return completed application, cover letter, and resume to: Personnel Office Swinomish Indian Tribal Community 11404 Moorage Way La Conner, WA 98257 Fax applications to: (360) 466.1348 Or email to: hr@swinomish.nsn.us Applications must be received in the Personnel Office by 5PM on or before the job closing date. Questions? Call the Personnel Office at (360) 466.7347
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As a full-time employee, you will be eligible for a comprehensive benefit package including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, retirement planning, and more. Other perks include generous paid time off and discounted meals.
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PRSRT STD US Postage Paid Permit #35 ANACORTES, WA
17337 Reservation Road La Conner, WA 98257 qyuuqs@swinomish.nsn.us
Recyclable Paper
OR CURRENT RESIDENT
I AM SWINOMISH,
I WILL GRADUATE.
Sarah Cook, Hannah Grossglass, Mary Lou Page hold up their Excellence in Music Achievement award given to them at the recent Education Dinner.