Author: Kim Kalliber

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.”

Young minds, big ideas: KidWind Challenge inspires local youth

By Micheal Rios, Tulalip News

Inside the gymnasium at Heritage High School, the steady hum of spinning blades and the excited chatter of young minds at work filled the air on a recent Saturday. Elementary students from across the Marysville School District gathered on the Tulalip Reservation for the Pacific Northwest Regional KidWind Challenge. The event transformed Francy J. Sheldon gymnasium into a hub of creativity and clean energy innovation.

Representing seven local schools, student teams put their engineering skills to the test in a multifaceted competition centered on renewable energy, with a particular focus on wind power. The event marked the district’s sixth year hosting the regional qualifier and its largest turnout yet.

From the moment turbines began turning around 11 a.m.., the energy in the room was undeniable. Carefully crafted blades, made from everything from cardboard to 3D-printed materials, spun inside a 4-foot wind tunnel, itself a student-built creation courtesy of WSU’s Everett-based engineering department. Each design reflected weeks, and in many cases months, of hands-on learning and experimentation.

“My kids saw Conservation Club as a new adventure and learning opportunity,” said Amy Andrews, multi-lingual teacher at Cascade Elementary. “Being a rookie team, and I as their rookie advisor, there was a bit of nervousness but definitely more excitement.

“Early in the school year, we discussed how a lot of electricity comes from hydropower and its impact on the salmon, specifically how it makes it much harder for salmon to reach their spawning areas,” she continued.  “We also discussed how important salmon are to our local ecosystems, especially to our neighboring Native people.”

The KidWind Challenge, part of a national initiative dedicated to advancing clean energy education, aims to spark student interest in STEM fields through real-world applications. By engaging youth in the design and construction of functional wind turbines, the program emphasizes problem-solving, teamwork, and environmental awareness.

“This is learning in action,” said WSU assistant professor and one of the event organizers, Gordon Taub. “Students aren’t just reading about renewable energy, they’re actually building it, testing it, and improving it. That kind of experience sticks with them. Getting them curious and asking ‘Why?’ questions that they can apply via STEM-related exercises is how we develop the next generation of scientists and engineers.”

Throughout the day, teams rotated through a series of events, including turbine testing, an instant challenge, a knowledge bowl, and formal presentations with judges. At their display stations, students confidently explained their engineering process, detailing how they refined blade angles, adjusted materials, and experimented with different designs to maximize energy output.

For many participants, this was their first exposure to engineering principles. Guided by their schools’ Conservation Clubs (after-school programs led by a dedicated group of volunteer educators) students learned foundational concepts like electricity, energy transfer, and generator function. Using the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) design process, teams worked collaboratively to build turbines capable of producing measurable power.

“The clubs are completely student-led,” explained a coach. “We provide the background knowledge, but the ideas, the designs, the troubleshooting…that all comes from the kids.”

Among the awe-inspiring KidWind participants was ten-year-old Tulalip tribal member, Priscilla Valelncia. She and her fellow Conservation Club schoolmates chose The Winders as their team name. 

“I enjoy trying new things, so when I first heard about the club I signed up for it,” admitted Priscilla. “We tried are very best at this competition. Creating the wind turbine was a lot of fun. Turns out our solar panels charged at the 2nd fastest rate, which we are proud of.

“It’s cool that this competition is hosted here in Tulalip because I just live right down the road, so it was easy to get here,” she chimed. Small in stature, but large in presence, Priscilla is well aware of her responsibility as a steward of Mother Earth. “Salmon hold a special place in my heart, as do all animals really, and it’s up to us ensure they survive. In order to do this, we must create new forms of energy, like wind and solar, that don’t harm them.” 

The Tulalip-based competition served as the only World KidWind Challenge qualifier in the Pacific Northwest, raising the stakes for participants. Top-performing teams earned the opportunity to represent the region at the World KidWind and Solar Challenge, set to take place in May in Wisconsin.

By introducing young learners to renewable energy at an early age, programs like KidWind not only build technical skills, but also inspire a better understanding of environmental stewardship. Something humanity, the world over, could use more of these days. But don’t take our word for it, instead let 5th grader Allison McCall of Cascade Elementary wax poetically.

“Wind energy is important because we have machines in the waterways polluting the water and dams blocking rivers. Both of these things make it hard for salmon to make it back up the river to lay their eggs and are killing schools of salmon,” declared 10-year-old Allison. “There are 137 species in the Pacific Northwest that rely on the salmon, humans are just one, and so its very important we stop them from dying.”

As the children-created turbines spun down and recognition was handed out later that Saturday afternoon, one thing was certain. With young innovators like Priscilla and Allison at the helm, the future of clean energy is in capable and enthusiastic hands.

A new Chair for a new era

Hazen Shopbell is elected as Tulalip Tribal Chairman at the March 21 General Council meeting. 

By Wade Sheldon, Tulalip News 

Tulalip tribal members showed up on Saturday, March 21, for the General Council meeting, proving that participation isn’t just encouraged, it’s essential. This year’s meeting carried added weight, with three seats on the Board of Directors up for election, including incumbents seeking reelection. With many in the community calling for change, that energy was felt throughout the day.

As the meeting got underway, tensions were already high. Community members were quick to voice their concerns, setting the tone for a passionate and, at times, heated discussion.

Among the businesses addressed, several motions were brought forward and passed, including ones supporting Kla Ha Ya Days, an annual festival in Snohomish that welcomes summer, and the Veterans Pow-wow. Additional discussions also focused on increasing staffing at the Youth Center to expand access and provide more opportunities for community members to utilize the facility.

That strong presence carried over to the ballot box. An added incentive also helped drive turnout, as voters were offered new suitcases designed by Tulalip tribal members featuring four different Native design styles to choose from. 

In total, 1,608 election votes were cast. In a closely watched race, Hazen Shopbell received the highest total with 662 votes, followed by newly elected Board member Malory Simpson with 558 votes and Teri Gobin with 540 votes. 

With the votes counted, attention turned to leadership. In a surprising outcome, Hazen Shopbell was selected as Chairman of the Board. Deborah Parker will serve as Vice Chair, Theresa Sheldon as Secretary, and Ryan Miller as Treasurer.

With the results finalized, the newly elected leaders took time to reflect on the moment and what it means for the community moving forward.

Hazen Shopbell spoke with humility as he addressed the crowd. “I never thought in a billion years I would be standing here,” he said while reflecting on his victory at the podium. Emphasizing unity, he added, “There are 5,400 of us, and we are relatives. We are all in the same canoe together. My last name is Tulalip, not Shopbell, and I am going to support each and every one of you and your families.”

Teri Gobin, who secured one of the three seats, expressed confidence in the Board’s direction and ability to work together. “I feel like we are in a good place, and we will work well together,” she said.

Newly elected board member Malory Simpson shared a message centered on service and community. “I look forward to serving our people. It’s not just a win for me, it’s a win for us,” she said, stressing the importance of making people feel seen and valued.

In the end, the message was simple: show up, be heard, and be counted. The strength of Tulalip lies in its people, and this year’s turnout proved just how powerful that can be.

Ruby Jimicum

Ruby Jimicum was born on February 2, 1955 and went home to be with the creator on March 9, 2026 she wasn’t alone but surrounded by loved ones she leaves behind her only surviving daughter and her grandchildren and great grandkids. 
An evening service will be held Thursday, March 19, 2026 at 6:00 PM at the Tulalip Gathering Hall. Funeral services will be held Friday, March 20, 2026 at 10 AM at the Gathering Hall with burial to follow at Mission Beach Cemetery.

Final sign-off: Sgt. Jeff Jira retires after 25 years serving Tulalip 

By Micheal Rios

After 25 years of service to the Tulalip community, Sergeant Jeff Jira officially signed off for the final time. Surrounded by fellow officers and support staff, Jeff delivered one last emotional radio call announcing his retirement. It marked the end of a distinguished career defined by dedication and community connection.

For many across Tulalip, Sgt. Jira was a familiar and trusted presence throughout the community. He frequently attended public gatherings, supported youth events, and cheered from the stands at local high school basketball, football, and volleyball games. Wherever Tulalip families gathered, Jeff was often nearby, greeting community members with a smile and strengthening the relationships that define effective community policing.

That philosophy guided his entire approach to law enforcement.

“Community policing has always meant being present,” Jeff shared during his retirement celebration. “When people know you and trust you, it changes everything. Being able to connect with families and see kids grow up over the years has been one of the most rewarding parts of the job.”

While Jeff built a reputation for being approachable and engaged with the community, he was also known among his fellow officers for his determination in the field.

Investigations commander Jim Williams, the longest tenured member of the Tulalip Police Department at 25 years and 4 months, has spent the last quarter of a century working alongside Jeff. “We’ve had a long career together. Every step of the way, Jeff was always there for me,” shared Commander Williams. “We shared the same drive to protect our community, always. It’s been an honor and a pleasure to work with Jeff as a fellow officer, but more importantly, to call him my friend.”

Over the course of his career, Jeff estimates he was involved in roughly 80 foot pursuits. Of those 80, he successfully caught the suspect about 70 times. The 10 or so that got away, he said with a laugh, were just as meaningful in shaping him as an officer.

“Those were the ones that motivated me,” he said. “Every time someone slipped away, I’d think about what I could do better. It pushed me to hit the gym harder, eat better, and stay in shape.”

Maintaining peak physical fitness wasn’t just about winning the chase. Jeff understood that staying healthy and strong was essential to doing the job safely and effectively over the long haul.

“If you want to do this job for 20-plus years, you have to take care of your body,” he said. “Being in good shape makes a big difference when you’re chasing someone down or responding to a call. It’s part of what helped me have such a long career.”

While Jeff’s retirement marks the closing of one chapter, his legacy within the Tulalip Police Department continues through his son, Jordan. Six years ago, Jordan followed in his father’s footsteps and joined the Tulalip Police Department. A Tulalip tribal member, Jordan represents the next generation of officers committed to serving the community.

“My dad has always been my hero,” Jordan admitted. “He was my hero when I was a 4-years-old and he became a cop to stop the bad guys. He continued being my hero when he pinned by badge on my chest six years ago. And he’s still my hero to this day, knowing he’s retiring to become the best grandpa he can be.”

Jordan said serving alongside his father has been an experience he will always treasure. “Watching how people in the community respect him and seeing the relationships he built is something I hope to carry forward in my own career.”

Jeff’s connection to Tulalip is bigger than the badge he wore for the past 25 years. Through his family, he has become firmly rooted in the community he served and protected. He’s quick to point out that he’s lived on the Tulalip Reservation for 30 years. This is his home. He will now be joining his wife, Tulalip tribal member Teresa Jira, in retirement. 

In many ways, Jeff’s service came full circle. What began as a career protecting the community, first as a firefighter and then as a police officer, grew into something much deeper. Family ties and lifelong relationships created will continue long after his final shift.

“The blessing of working for Tulalip is I could arrest somebody and a month later I’m giving them a ride home at 3a.m. and we’re shaking hands as I wished them nothing but the best,” Jeff reflected. “The moments that stand out the best as I think back on my career are the ones where people have come up to me and said, ‘You know, I’m sorry about doing this or that and for giving you a hard time when you were doing your job.’ 

“And then there’s the moment’s when others have told me, ‘You saved my life. I’m here today because you cared.’ Those moments got me through even the most difficult of times because I knew I was making a positive difference in people’s lives.”

 Now officially retired, Jeff is looking forward to a new kind of journey. One that takes him far beyond the roads he patrolled for decades. An avid motorcycle rider, Jeff shared that he’s long dreamed of riding off into the sunset when he finally reached retirement.

That day has finally come. His first adventure will take him south to Arizona to catch the remaining spring training games of his beloved hometown team, the Seattle Mariners. From there, he plans to continue riding his Harley east until he reaches the sun-soaked shores of Key West, where he hopes to enjoy tropical heat and the open ocean breeze.

While his days of patrolling the streets of Tulalip may be behind him, those who know Jeff say his presence in the community will undoubtedly remain. After all, once someone spends 25 years building relationships, protecting neighbors, and showing up wherever the community gathers, they never truly fade from the fabric of the place they served.

And as Sgt. Jeff Jira’s final radio call echoed through the department, it carried with it the gratitude of an entire community. A community that, for 25 years, was proud to call him one of its own.

Your vote matters

The March 21 General Council meeting offers a chance for the community to show up, be heard, and help shape the future of Tulalip

By Wade Sheldon, Tulalip News  

As general council elections approach, many community members are calling for change, but what that looks like depends on who shows up and participates. Rising costs of living, from food to housing, have impacted families everywhere, and those concerns are often reflected at the local level, where decisions can directly affect the community. However, that call for change was not reflected in strong attendance at the recent candidate forum.

A mere 50 people attended the Board of Directors candidate forum at the Gathering Hall on Thursday, March 12, underscoring a lack of participation in conversations that shape both the present and the future of the Tulalip Tribes. This year, three seats are up for re-election: Teri Gobin, Hazen Shopbell, and Marlin Fryberg Jr. With leadership decisions on the line, the forum offered voters a key opportunity to hear directly from the candidates about their priorities and vision for the community. In addition to those in attendance, approximately 30 viewers tuned in online. The forum was recorded and is available for viewing at iamtulalip.com for those who were unable to attend.

The forum was moderated by Eliza Davis, Executive Director of General Services, who guided candidates through a series of questions on key issues facing the Tribe. Following opening introductions, the candidates who showed up shared their reasons for running and outlined priorities ranging from economic development and housing to cultural preservation and the possibility of a new school. Both incumbents and challengers stepped forward, each offering their own vision for Tulalip’s future.

Angel Cortez was asked about his five-year vision for economic development and self-sufficiency. He said, “I would like to see us invest in food security and food sovereignty,” while also supporting more sustainable business ventures beyond gaming.

Pat Contraro was asked whether she supports disenrollment and, if so, on what grounds. She said, “I believe the code allows for disenrollment for different reasons… it would have to be a very serious reason,” expressing cautious support under strict circumstances.

David Fryberg Jr. was asked about balancing social services and increasing general welfare without sufficient financial capacity. He explained that increasing revenue streams would be key, noting that strong leadership could enable expanded support without cutting programs.

Teri Gobin was asked how she would address violence within the community. She emphasized early education and mentorship, stating, “We need to start educating our kids at a younger age… bringing our culture into the teachings again,” highlighting the importance of keeping youth on a positive path.

Summer Hammons was asked whether Tulalip should be considered a service-based or per capita Tribe and what direction it should take. She said, “I believe there should be a balance of general welfare and services,” while emphasizing prevention programs and community input, adding that Tulalip should remain “a service tribe first” while continuing to grow economically.

Sarah Hart-Carpenter was asked to explain the difference between supporting and enabling, and how programs can uplift tribal members without encouraging dependency. She said, “Our program is about lifting our people, not enabling them… teaching them techniques on how to be successful, strive, and thrive on their own,” while emphasizing care and accountability within the community.

Laverne Jones was asked about her top three priorities for improving community services and how she would achieve them. She responded, “Children first,” emphasizing youth support, prevention, and healthcare as key focus areas.

Kisar Jones-Fryberg was asked about economic development, specifically his long-term vision for diversifying the Tribe’s economy beyond gaming and the first steps he would take. He proposed creating a permanent vendor village near the casino to support entrepreneurs and generate revenue. He also emphasized improving entertainment, stating, “Our entertainment can improve… we need acts and events that bring in people that haven’t been here yet,” focusing on long-term self-sustainability.

Teresa Meece was asked about economic development, specifically about her experience managing budgets and leading organizations. She shared that she worked on three budgets at the old casino and said, “I have been in management for 30 years… I enjoy mentoring young tribal members. They are so eager to learn.”

Misty Williams-Napeahi was asked about cultural teachings and sovereignty, specifically how Tulalip can develop sustainable practices for governing land and resources. She said, “If you have land, you are rich… we need to take care of what we have,” emphasizing the importance of reconnecting youth to the land and protecting natural resources.

Hazen Shopbell was asked about his understanding of Tulalip treaty rights and how he would ensure they are enforced and protected. He said, “I have been protecting our treaty rights for years… it’s a right to hunt, fish, gather, and support your family,” referencing his experience defending sovereignty.

Malory Simpson was asked about policy, noting that all policy is approved by the Board of Directors, and about her qualifications for analyzing policy and ensuring the best outcomes for the Tulalip community. She said, “I have been able to dive further into policy and procedure and find out what works and what might need changing,” adding that strong departmental teams are key to developing effective policies. As the General Council meeting approaches on Saturday, March 21, the decisions now shift from the candidates to the voters.

With 3477 eligible tribal members over the age of 18, turnout will once again determine the outcome. Last year, only 39 percent of eligible voters participated, resulting in a tie vote between candidates Ryan Miller and Jennie Fryberg, a result that could have been different if more voices were heard. With so much on the line, this year’s election is another chance for the community to show up, be heard, and help shape the future of Tulalip.