Egg hunt for a cause

By Wade Sheldon, Tulalip News

On Friday, April 3, more than a hundred children and their families gathered in Tulalip for Dan and Kelsie Pablo’s final cystic fibrosis event, held in honor of their son, Keldan. The gathering marked the close of a meaningful chapter that included events such as the Walk for CF, drive-in movie nights, car washes, and Easter egg hunts. More than anything, it was a celebration of community, bringing people together to create lasting memories for the kids while raising awareness for a cause close to home.

Over the years, the Pablo family has raised thousands of dollars for cystic fibrosis research and awareness, with $1,600 raised from this year’s event alone. But for them, the impact goes far beyond the numbers.

“Every single dollar has meant something to us, not just as a number, but as hope for better treatments and, one day, a cure,” Kelsie explained. “They [fundraisers] became a way to bring people together, to educate, to support our son, and to remind us that we’re not in this fight alone. Seeing kids laugh, families come out, and the community stand behind something so personal to us is something we’ll never take for granted.”

Event attendee, tribal member Aria Comenote, responded with a cheerful “Yes,” when asked if she enjoyed the day, adding that her favorite parts were finding eggs and taking pictures.

After 18 years of organizing events in Tulalip, the family is now facing a transition, as this marks the last kid-focused CF Foundation event in the community for the time being.

“It’s honestly a mix of emotions,” Kelsie said. “There’s pride in what we’ve been able to do and gratitude for every single person who showed up, donated, volunteered, or helped in any way.”

At the same time, there is a sense of loss as a long-standing tradition comes to a pause.

“These events became a tradition for so many kids and families in the community. Knowing this chapter is closing, even temporarily, is emotional,” Kelsie added. “But we understand that change is part of growth. The fight against cystic fibrosis is evolving, and so are the ways we show up for it.”

Even with that shift, their commitment remains unchanged.

“This cause is personal—it’s our son, it’s our family, it’s our life,” Kelsie said. “We’ll continue to find ways to support, raise awareness, and stay involved. This isn’t the end for us, it’s just a shift.”

Kelsie also emphasized the broader impact cystic fibrosis has on families and the importance of community support.

“Cystic fibrosis affects not just the person diagnosed, but the entire family. Events like this bring awareness while also creating moments of joy and connection,” Kelsie said. “We’re incredibly thankful to everyone who has supported us over the years. It truly takes a community.”

For Keldan, those events have meant just as much on a personal level.

“It has meant a lot to me to have these events in Tulalip because this is my home, and nothing makes me feel better than having support from my own community,” he shared. “It’s shown me how strong and impactful our community can be when we all come together. I’m forever grateful; nothing compares to being supported and encouraged by a whole community and family.”

Playing through it, Hawks take on the Braves

By Wade Sheldon, Tulalip News  

Under a heavy sky that threatened rain at every turn, the Tulalip Heritage Hawks stepped onto Battle Creek Golf Course on Thursday, April 2, ready to prove that no condition could shake their resolve. Facing the La Conner Braves, the Hawks embraced the elements and the course alike on a challenging day. Despite the weather, the Hawks stayed composed throughout the match as they took on the course, their opponent, and themselves, putting together solid rounds across the board.

Hopes were high for their fourth match of the season. Early in the season, matches are played over 9 holes, with a transition to 18 holes after spring break. Heritage fielded five competitors as part of a nine-player team comprising eight boys and one girl, with four varsity and five JV players.

Leading the way was tribal member and senior Lilly Jefferson, who competed at the varsity level and won her match with a score of 61. She was joined by sophomore Devin Charles Williams, who shot a 43 on the par-3 course, and freshman Mylo Kane, who carded a 42 on the big course, both earning match wins for the Hawks. Senior Haylen Pierce also contributed with a round of 61, and Junior William Mclean added a solid 52. 

In her third season coaching and first year as head ladies coach, Dinesha Kane spoke highly of the team’s growth. “We have a really great team, and I like working with them.”

Dinesha also highlighted sophomore Devin Charles Williams, noting his potential early on. “Devin is determined, he is coachable, and his mind is really strong. He has a lot of talent,” she said.

Devin, a tribal member competing in his first season, said he felt confident going into the day’s match, adding, “I felt pretty good, just a little upset I couldn’t go on the full course.” Despite that, he found success in his play, sharing, “I was able to land the ball on the green in one shot,” noting that “just keeping my clubs straight was what I was doing best out there.”

Fellow tribal member and freshman, Mylo, entered the match with a mix of nerves and familiarity, saying they felt “nervous, but pretty good,” especially having played the course many times before. Their short game proved to be a strength throughout the round, as they explained, “My putting was saving me a bunch. My short game, in general, was helping a lot. I made a 25-foot putt today, which really made me happy.” 

One of their standout moments came on hole four, where they said, “I consistently drive, and it fades to the left, but today I was able to create a draw on the ball and came all the way from the right to land in the center of the fairway.” Beyond the physical aspects of the game, Mylo also highlighted growth in their mindset, adding, “My mental game, I’ve struggled with that my entire life, and I still do. But this year it’s getting better.”

Dinesha also emphasized the opportunities available through the sport, especially for female athletes. Every year, hundreds of female golf scholarships go unclaimed, opening doors for players to compete at schools they may not have previously considered. “Lilly and I have been working together. We have gotten her seven scholarship offers, and another coach wants to see her,” Kane shared. 

Encouraging her players to expand their horizons through college and new experiences, Dinesha added, “I want all the kids to leave because I think there is value in leaving and understanding, and there is growth that you can’t get at home.”

Lilly carried that momentum into her performance on the course. “I was actually really excited, and I was ready to play. I came to play,” she said, noting she was in a good mood after recently getting her braces removed. That mindset carried onto the course, where she focused on competing against herself, explaining, “I went in with the thought process of it’s me versus the course and not versus the other players.” Her approach paid off, highlighted by a key moment on hole two: “I was able to putt it within 2 inches from about 17 feet from the hole.” 

She also emphasized the importance of adaptability in her game, adding, “Knowing how to work through certain shots that aren’t going the way I want them to, and learning what clubs work for me and how to play through it.”

Come cheer for the Heritage Hawks at their upcoming home game. They’ll be playing at Battle Creek Golf Course against Cedar Park Christian/Evangel Classical School on April 14th at 1:00 pm. Don’t forget to follow them on Facebook at Heritage Hawks Golf to stay updated and show your support.

Leadership renewed

By Micheal Rios, Tulalip News

The Tulalip Tribes celebrated a moment of continuity and fresh energy as three elected leaders were sworn into office on Saturday, March 4. The official swearing-in followed the results of the most recent General Council.

Taking their oath were Hazen Shopbell, Teri Gobin, and Malory Simpson; the top three vote-getters in the election. For Teri, this marks her fourth term on the Board, a reflection of three decades of dedication and steady leadership stemming from her previous time as TERO Director. Hazen begins his third term, bringing his extensive entrepreneurial experience and bold vision for new business to the community he serves.

The Saturday morning ceremony was particularly notable for Malory, who was elected to the Board in her first attempt at running. She earned the trust of the community after years of being on the front lines of local, grassroots events organizing with Aunties In Action and Together We’re Better. Walking her talk in public spaces and behind the scenes played a significant role in her ability to successfully claim a Board seat.

“My grandmother set a great example of what leadership is supposed to look like, and I’m so thankful she’s here to share in this moment,” said Malory with her grandma Dawn Simpson by her side. “I say this all the time, but I’d like to reiterate it now. You don’t have to be on the Board to be a leader in our community.

“There are tribal members who routinely step up and do the work that’s needed, regardless of if they are employed by the Tribe or not,” she continued. “I want to encourage everyone out there to continue stepping up and filling the gaps in service for our people because we deserve it, both as individual tribal members and as a Tribe. All the work I’ve done to this point is because I love my people. That’s why I chose to run when I did, and that’s why I’m here now. I’m honored to serve as a Board of Director and to continue serving our people in the best way that I can.”

Adding to the significance of the morning, Hazen Shopbell was selected to serve as Chairman of the Board. His Sioux family attended the swearing-in ceremony to honor him in their traditional way, connecting the day’s formal proceedings with a heartfelt, cross-cultural celebration.

“This moment is overwhelming, to say the least,” admitted Chairman Hazen after being honored with a ceremonial headdress and stunning star quilt that represented his Tulalip and Sioux roots. “It’s truly humbling to receive this level of trust from our community. Serving alongside Teri, whose experience as Chairwoman is unmatched, and welcoming Malory, whose fresh perspective will be appreciated, I feel confident about the direction we’re headed.”

The Board of Directors represents the highest level of authority in guiding the Tulalip Tribes, making decisions that impact everything from education and health services to economic development and cultural preservation. With a mix of seasoned leadership and new voices, this latest iteration of leadership intends to offer fresh ideas and a strong connection to Tulalip traditions.

Congratulations to Teri, Hazen, and Malory as they embark on their 3-year terms.

Easter Run delivers sunshine, smiles, and multigenerational joy

By Micheal Rios, Tulalip News

On what felt like the long-awaited arrival of spring, the Tulalip Reservation came alive with sunshine, laughter, and the unmistakable energy of community connection as Together We’re Better hosted their 6th annual Easter Run.

With temperatures reaching the mid-60s, clear blue skies overhead, and not a hint of rain in sight, the day offered a perfect backdrop for a cherished grassroots tradition. Traveling neighborhood by neighborhood, volunteers loaded with colorful eggs and sweet treats made their rounds, bringing Easter magic directly to families gathered outside their homes.

At the center of it all was the Easter Bunny, brought to life this year by Anthony Hart, who waved, danced, and posed for photos with children and families at every stop. His presence sparked excitement among the youngest community members, many of whom eagerly waited with baskets in hand, eyes wide with anticipation.

“Bringing joy directly to the people is what it’s all about,” explained Natosha Gobin, one of Together We’re Better’s event coordinators. “Whether parents have schedule conflicts or concerns over children getting overstimulated, not everyone can make it out of their house nor get to the community events. We want to make sure every child gets an opportunity to experience the excitement.”

In a heartfelt expansion of the event’s reach, this year’s Easter Run included a dedicated stop at the Tulalip Elder’s Village. The visit ensured that the spirit of the season extended beyond the community’s youth to embrace the oldest and wisest among us.

As the Bunny and volunteers made their way through the Elder Village, they were met with warm smiles, waves, and moments of shared laughter. Elder exclamations ranged from “Oh my god, it’s the Easter Bunny!” to “Hold on, I’m still in my pajamas!” 

Each time an enthusiastic elder stepped outside to greet their visitors, they were engulfed in sunshine and the unexpected surprise of Easter cheer brought right to their doorsteps.

“It’s grown into something bigger every year,” reflected Sara Hart, an event organizer for Together We’re Better. “It started as a way to do something special for the kids, but it’s become about connection. It’s about showing up for one another, across all ages.

“I feel like we don’t check on our elders enough, especially during the holidays,” she continued. “Some of our elders don’t have any family to spend this time with. That makes it even more important to let them know that they are cared for, they are loved, and the community hasn’t forgotten them.”

That sense of togetherness was felt in every corner of the reservation. From toddlers clutching their first Easter eggs to grandparents watching proudly from porches, the Easter Run created a shared experience rooted in community care.

Like each previous Easter Run iteration, volunteers played a crucial role in making the event possible by coordinating routes and assembling treat bags. Their efforts, combined with the natural beauty of a perfect spring day, helped create lasting memories for grateful families.

With each passing spring, Together We’re Better’s annual Easter Run reaffirms a simple truth: sometimes the smallest gestures, like an egg, wave or shared smile, can bring a community closer together.

Tulalip Tribes Secretary Report

April 2026 

By Theresa Sheldon

As we enter spring break, it’s easy as a parent to feel overwhelmed, exhausted, and stressed out about how to balance your children’s needs, your needs and work. This can be even harder if you are a single parent or the parent of a child with special needs. It’s a lot and we don’t talk about the everyday stresses enough. Imagine if we lived in a community where parents felt supported enough, safe enough, and comfortable enough to ask for help- our ancestors had this.

As a parent, we learn how to parent from how we were parented or for many of how we were not parented. What if we felt comfortable enough to pick up the phone and call someone like Sasha Smith (Tulalip Tribal member), who overseesTulalip Tribes parenting classes and say “When my child throws a temper tantrum , I do not like how I respond. I have no idea how to do it differently. Afterwards, I feel guilty, ashamed, frustrated, and upset with myself. Yet, this is how I always respond”.

Sasha Smith’s has multiple programs worth participating in:

  • Family Spirit is our one-on-one support for families with children under 5 years old.
  • Moms group every Tuesday – 11 am-1pm
  •  Dads group every Wednesday 430pm-530pm
  •  Parenting classes- Starts April 9th 10am-3pm 

What would it take to feel comfortable enough to say this to someone who could then support you in learning a new way to respond? There’s a sense of loss, a sense of failure, and a sense of frustration when we don’t have the tools we need- the tools we deserve.

What if we looked at parenting differently and saw it as a way to learn, expand and grow? What if our community embraced sharing the challenges they are experiencing without the fear that we might be judged? What if we were given the opportunity to be better as a whole? 

The World Health Organization (WHO) upholds that children have the fundamental right to the highest attainable standard of health, safety, and development, based on the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child. Key rights include access to nutrition, protection from abuse, education, play, and specialized care. 

Should we as a Tribe create the rights of Tulalip children from a cultural and spiritual place of being? Would you be interested in coming together to create something similar to this: 

• Health and Survival: Every child has the right to a healthy start in life, including nutritious food, safe drinking water, and quality health services.

• Protection from Harm: Children have the right to be protected from maltreatment, including violence, abuse, and exploitation. Children have the right one loved. 

• Development and Education: Children have the right to education, rest, and play to ensure proper growth.

• Identity and Family: Children have the right to a traditional name, culture, language, and to be cared for by their parents whenever possible.

• Participation: Children have the right to express their opinions, which should be taken seriously by adults. 

Research has shown that the period from pregnancy to age three is critical for brain development. Are we doing enough for families from birth to three with regards to health and survival, protection from harm, development and education, identity and family, and participation? 

It’s not enough to survive but how are we ensuring children of the Tulalip Tribes are thriving? 

Some solutions can be found in implementing policies that ensure children receive care and support, especially for those with disabilities or those in unsafe homes but many solutions are within our own teachings and community members. Governments have a duty to ensure that children have access to information and support services which truly speaks to the need for prevention programs as this is where children learn about their rights, their own boundaries for their body, and their own safety. An April call to action, how do we guarantee the rights of children of the Tulalip Tribes are loved, protected, and grow in a safe home and Tribe? 

A stronger future looks like continuing recovery

By Wade Sheldon, Tulalip News  

It doesn’t start as a problem. For most, gambling is just a game, something to pass the time, win a little money, or enjoy with friends. But for a growing number of people, that game becomes much harder to walk away from. 

According to the Evergreen Council on Problem Gambling, in Washington State alone, an estimated 2 to 4 percent of adults are at risk or already struggling with problem gambling, a mental health disorder that can quietly impact finances, relationships, and overall well-being.

That reality was at the center of Tulalip’s Problem Gambling Awareness Dinner, Recovery Builds Stronger Futures, held at the Tulalip Resort Casino on Sunday, March 29. 

Guests were welcomed with gift bags and a dinner featuring crab legs and salmon, setting a warm and inviting tone for an evening centered on healing, connection, and awareness. Special guest performer Notorious Cree, an internationally recognized hoop dancer from Alberta, Canada, brought both energy and cultural storytelling to the event. 

Known for blending traditional dance with modern performance, Notorious Cree delivered a powerful hoop dance that captivated the audience, weaving together multiple hoops into intricate shapes and symbols. He also invited a young attendee to join him, creating a heartfelt moment. The performance concluded with a round dance, bringing the community together and reinforcing the evening’s theme of unity and support. 

Also featured was Theda New Breast, who brought both humor and honesty to the evening. Raised on the Blackfeet Reservation in Montana and later relocating to San Francisco during the Civil Rights Movement, Theda is a founding member of the Native Wellness Institute and an advocate for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls. She has also received a humanitarian award for her documentary Why The Women In My Family Don’t Drink Whiskey. 

Theda encouraged attendees to connect with one another, asking them to turn to those beside them and say, “You are handsome and beautiful,” followed by a playful reminder that “there will be no snagging tonight,” drawing laughter from the room. Her approach balanced lighthearted moments with serious conversation about the dangers and realities of gambling addiction. 

While the atmosphere remained uplifting, the message carried real weight. Problem gambling, also known as gambling disorder or compulsive gambling, is a recognized mental health condition that can impact individuals regardless of age, background, or income level. 

Warning signs include constantly thinking about gambling, needing to bet more money more often, chasing losses, mood swings tied to wins or losses, and choosing gambling over everyday responsibilities. In more severe cases, it can lead to financial hardship, job loss, strained relationships, and thoughts of suicide. 

The Tulalip Tribes Problem Gambling Program offers free, culturally responsive services including treatment, counseling, group support, and family therapy, all tailored to each individual seeking help. 

Among those in attendance was community member Loris Josephine Fryberg, who shared her personal connection to recovery.

“I used to struggle with addiction to gambling three years ago, and I haven’t gambled since I’ve been in recovery,” she said. “So it’s a really big inspiration to me to come to the casino and actually not have to gamble anymore.”

She spoke about the importance of sharing personal stories, even when it is difficult. “It’s hard until you do it once or twice, and then eventually it’s easier to talk about your story.” Once you know your story might help somebody, that’s when you really want to share it.”

One of her favorite moments came when her daughter, who is typically shy, joined her in dancing. “What stood out to me was that my daughter actually put her jingle dress on and got out there and danced with me,” she said.

Fryberg also expressed concern about the lack of awareness among younger generations. “I really don’t think enough is being done, but there could be a little bit more to let them know that gambling is really not a cool thing,” she said. “It can be an addiction.”

Janelle Lierman, a recovery coach for Gamblers Anonymous and one of the evening’s speakers, shared a deeply personal account of her journey.

Lierman explained that while she identifies as a compulsive gambler, that label does not define her.

“There is no stereotypical compulsive gambler,” she said. “We come from all cultures and backgrounds, and this disease does not discriminate. Compulsive gambling is not a financial problem; it’s an emotional one,” she said. “For me, it was an escape from problems I didn’t want to face.”

As her addiction worsened, it affected every part of her life. Her turning point came in April 2023, when she lost her job due to her gambling. Despite that, she went to the casino and lost everything she had. Even after coming clean to her husband, she returned again after receiving her final paycheck and lost that as well.

“That was the moment I knew I had a problem and needed help,” she said.

Lierman eventually found support through Gamblers Anonymous and began attending local meetings, including those in Tulalip. As part of her recovery, she helped start a Gamblers Anonymous meeting at the Tulalip Recovery Resource Center, which now meets every Thursday at noon.

She now serves as a recovery coach and sponsor, helping others facing similar struggles. “A stronger future looks like continuing recovery, not just for me, but for my family,” she said. “There’s hope. Just keep coming back. You meet a group that understands. There are always open arms.”

If you or someone you know needs help, they can reach out to Tulalip Tribes Family Services, Sarah Sense-Wilson, Problem Gambling Coordinator, at (360) 716-4303. There are also meetings every Thursday at 12 pm at the Tulalip Recovery Resource Center. You can contact them at (206) 369-4450. National Problem Gambling Helpline (1-800-GAMBLER).

Building bridges with ‘Coffee and Conversations’

By Micheal Rios, Tulalip News

At Quil Ceda Elementary, the simple idea of sharing coffee and conversation is transforming the way families and educators connect. What began as a strategy to strengthen communication has grown into a meaningful movement centered around building a stronger community.

Designed to create a welcoming, informal space for dialogue, ‘Coffee and Conversations’ events invite parents, guardians, and caregivers into a school setting where their voices are not only heard, but valued. Moving beyond the traditional structure of scheduled conferences or office meetings, these gatherings emphasize relationship-building as the foundation for student success.

“Effective school leadership starts with relationships,” shared Quil Ceda Principal and Tulalip tribal member, Chelsea Craig. “When families feel comfortable walking through the doors, or meeting us in the community, it changes everything about how we work together for our kids.”

Modeled after open office hours, Coffee and Conversations offer flexible meeting opportunities to accommodate the diverse schedules of Quil Ceda families. Sessions are held within the school, utilizing spaces like the library or an open portable space. That intentional shift in environment has proven impactful.

The casual atmosphere allows conversations to flow more naturally, encouraging participants to share ideas, ask questions, and engage in honest dialogue. While staff may offer conversation starters, the heart of each gathering lies in its organic nature. Discussions can range from curriculum and technology use to school safety and cultural inclusion, depending on the interests and needs of attendees.

At Quil Ceda’s most recent Coffee and Conversation session, conversation topics ranged from tutoring opportunities and accessing curriculum via Chromebook to learning how to become an in-class volunteer and how to go about getting more homework for students. You didn’t read that last part wrong. Multiple moms of Quil Ceda students said their students weren’t receiving enough homework, or none at all, and wanted extra work packets to keep their kids in school mode while at home.

“It’s not uncommon for a parent or guardian to ask teachers to provide their student with study packets that they can work on at home,” said Toni Otto, Quil Ceda Family Liaison. “These don’t count towards the student’s grade, but they go a long way to creating a sense of confidence in both the student and their family who want to ensure their student is retaining what they learned in class.”

A key point of emphasis in growth of Coffee and Conversation is ensuring every family, regardless of language, can participate fully. Central to that effort is Marysville School District’s family support program lead, Wendy Messarina, whose presence has become invaluable.

Serving as a bridge between English- and Spanish-speaking families, Wendy provides real-time translation that allows conversations to flow seamlessly. Her work has opened the door for Quil Ceda’s growing Spanish-speaking community to engage in ways that were previously limited.

As a result, more and more Latina moms have been showing up to Coffee and Conversations, eager to take part. They arrive with thoughtful questions and a clear desire to be involved. Through Wendy’s translation and advocacy, these voices are included.

“District-wide, we have 1,220 Spanish-speaking families,” explained Wendy. It’s estimated that nearly one third of Quil Ceda’s student population speak Spanish at home. “I appreciate Principal Chelsea and assistant Principal Corina so much for creating a warm, welcoming school environment for all families. They are truly committed to creating meaningful opportunities for our families to connect and feel supported.”

At its core, Coffee and Conversations reflect a broader philosophy that communication should be a two-way street. This approach aligns with research from the National Association for Family, School, and Community Engagement, which emphasizes that authentic family engagement is essential to building trust and improving student outcomes.

When schools prioritize relationships with families, students benefit academically, socially, and emotionally. Trust then becomes the bridge that connects home and school, creating a unified support system around each child.

“In order for our educational approach to work best, we need the trust of the families,” Principal Chelsea noted following the latest Coffee and Conversations session. “In order to establish that trust, we need gatherings like this where there can be clear, honest dialogue. We want our school to be a place of safety, inclusion, and where thoughts and feelings are genuinely expressed. These sessions are a big part of that.”

By prioritizing accessibility and genuine connection, Quil Ceda Elementary is redefining what family engagement looks like in practice. The initiative recognizes that families are not just interested parties, but essential contributors to the educational journey.

As the program continues to grow, relationships will be built and strengthened as communication becomes more transparent. And most importantly, students will be surrounded by a stronger, more unified network of support.

In the words of Principal Chelsea, “When we turn communication into community, everybody wins.”