Author: Kim Kalliber

Season of Healing 2.0 concludes with youth honoring

By Micheal Rios, Tulalip News

The final installment of Tulalip’s Season of Healing 2.0 series brought the community full circle on February 12, centering the voices, vision, and vitality of Tulalip’s young people. Titled Honoring Tulalip Youth: Your Voices, Your Strength Carry Us Forward, the gathering drew nearly 150 community members to the Youth Center for an evening rooted in culture and collective hope.

The choice of venue was intentional. The Youth Center stands as a dedicated space where local youth are not only welcomed but empowered. By hosting the concluding Season of Healing event within its walls, organizers underscored a compelling message: our young people are not an afterthought in community healing, they are at its heart.

Throughout that Thursday evening, youth leaders shared stories of growth, responsibility, and the challenges they face navigating today’s world while carrying ancestral teachings. Their words were met with encouragement from parents, elders, and tribal leadership.

A particularly moving portion of the event featured former Tulalip Youth Council members, invited back nearly a decade after their own time in leadership. They reflected on their experiences as young representatives of the Tribe and spoke candidly about the evolution they’ve witnessed.

“First of all, I want to say how much of an honor it is to be invited to speak,” said Kordelle Phillips. “I’m so happy to have seen how much the Youth Council has grown. They are so present in our community and appear to be extremely active at events. I see them speaking Lushootseed and proudly wearing their regalia, and that just reminds me that every day is a good day to be Indigenous. If I have a lasting message for everyone, it’s that a united Tribe begins with a united Youth Council.”  

Following Kordelle was former Youth Council speaker Eddie Reeves. The Heritage High School grad spoke eloquently when she shared, “When we served, we were passionate. But what we see today is something even stronger. Today’s Youth Council is more united, more organized, and making an even greater impact than in my day. 

“You are all living in a time with more opportunities than any previous generation,” she continued. “More importantly, you are capitalizing on those opportunities by showing up and announcing that your voice matters, your identity matters, and your presence matters. You all aren’t just the leaders of tomorrow. You are the leaders of now.”

The former Youth Council members and the audience members selected as witnesses, time and time again, praised the current Youth Council’s cohesion, cultural grounding, and confidence in advocating for their peers. According to the enthusiastic speakers, today’s youth leaders have access to clearer pathways to civic engagement and receive broader community support. This has amplified the ability of today’s youth to effect meaningful change.

The reflections of each speaker illustrate the very essence of Season of Healing 2.0, which is progress rooted in continuity. The seeds planted years ago have grown, and the next generation is standing taller because of it.

“When I look around at not just the current Youth Council members, but all the youth at this gathering, I see many who were so quiet and timid just a few years ago,” noted witness Melissa Gobin, Natural Resources Education Outreach coordinator. “But now they’ve come out of their shells and have chosen to be leaders. It makes me so proud. Seeing you all grow and find yourselves just fills me with such joy because I feel like the ultimate auntie.”

The evening culminated in a compelling blanket ceremony honoring each youth in attendance. One by one, adults stepped forward to wrap the young people in custom-made quilts designed specifically for the occasion.

Each quilt depicted a Coast Salish individual adorned in cedar regalia, their long hair braided into a single, beautiful braid. Prominently displayed at the top of each quilt was the Lushootseed language. At the bottom, the phrase was translated into English: “Our ancestors stand behind us and set the path before us.”

By concluding Season of Healing 2.0 with a focus on youth empowerment, Tulalip leadership reaffirmed a foundational truth that healing is sustained by uplifting the unwavering spirits of our young people.

“Its so powerful when we get the chance to come together as a community and reflect on how much our youth have grown,” concluded witness Andy Williams. “They’ve really poured their hearts into this Youth Council platform, and our Tribe is better because of it.” 

12th man as 1

By Wade Sheldon; Photos courtesy of Josh Fryberg (JEE-LEETS-KYNAM), Alan Enick, Eliza Davis, Theresa Sheldon, Scott Rehaume, and Marilyn Sheldon

Under bright blue skies and rare February sunshine, downtown Seattle glowed almost as brightly as the Lombardi Trophy on Wednesday, February 11. The winter chill gave way to clear, crisp air as nearly a million fans poured into the city, their blue and green jerseys reflecting in the sunlight that felt more like early fall than midwinter. For Tulalip Tribal members who made the journey south, the sunshine added something symbolic to the celebration, a championship moment shared with family, community, and the entire Pacific Northwest.

For Tulalip Tribal member William Burchett, the parade marked the payoff of patience and belief. Burchett and his wife, Katie, both Tribal members, have held season tickets for three years after waiting 11 years on the list. The opportunity did not come easily. “I actually lost an earlier opportunity back in 2009 because I didn’t follow up on the notification,” he said. “That one still stings a little, but I’m just grateful to have them now. The wait was absolutely worth it.”

Having invested more than a decade hoping for seats, Burchett said he recognized early signs that this season could become something special. When every player reported to Organized Team Activities in the spring, he saw a level of commitment that stood out. Even after a Week 11 loss to the Los Angeles Rams, his confidence in the team’s direction remained steady. He viewed that moment as a challenge that would strengthen the roster rather than derail it.

His belief solidified during the Week 16 overtime win against the Rams on primetime Thursday Night Football. “Something about that game just felt different,” Burchett explained. “That’s when I thought there was no stopping the Seahawks.” Convinced of their trajectory, he placed a bet back in May predicting Seattle would win the NFC West. “I just wish I had put one down for the Super Bowl, too,” he added.

Standing among the massive crowd lining 4th Avenue on parade day, Burchett said one moment stood above the rest. “Hearing the 12th Man echo down 4th Avenue when the parade started is something I’ll never forget,” he said. With the sun overhead and the city unified in celebration, he felt the fans’ energy carried the day. “The fans proved why we’re the best. And I can’t wait to do it again next year.”

Tulalip Tribal member Alan Enick approached February 11 with determination. After missing the 2014 championship parade due to heavy traffic near Everett Mall, he made sure this time would be different. Enick left his home at 6 a.m., boarded the light rail in Lynnwood, and arrived in Seattle before 7 a.m. to secure a spot along the route.

As the morning progressed, the streets filled beyond capacity. “You really had to be there to understand how special it was,” Enick said. “It was shoulder-to-shoulder downtown. You could barely turn around without bumping into someone.” Despite the tightly packed crowd, he described the atmosphere as positive and unified, with strangers sharing chants, smiles, and excitement as the players passed by.

For Tulalip Tribal member Josh Fryberg (JEE-LEETS-KYNAM), the championship celebration became a family memory. The drive into Seattle took nearly two hours just to reach a parking garage, and they arrived around 9 a.m., prepared to spend the day surrounded by fellow 12s. “Being there with my family and all the 12s was amazing,” Fryberg said. “The vibes were good, and everyone brought positive energy to share the experience together. It’s definitely a memory we’ll hold onto for a long time.”

Positioned near one of the stadium gates where players entered, Fryberg and his family experienced an unexpected highlight. His sons, Josh Jr. and Dan Dan, created a handmade sign that caught the attention of several Seahawks players. What began as a hopeful gesture quickly turned into direct interaction. “They ended up getting autographs from six different Seahawks players and even one of the media guys,” Fryberg shared. “They got a bunch of high fives from players and staff too. They absolutely loved it.”

From Tulalip to downtown Seattle, the celebration reflected more than a championship victory. It brought families together, strengthened community bonds, and showcased the pride Tribal members carry for their team.

As Fryberg summed up the spirit of the day: “12th Man as 1.”

Round 3 goes to Grace: Late steal sinks Tulalip in playoff thriller

By Micheal Rios, Tulalip News

The Tulalip Heritage girls basketball team hit the road for another loser-out game in the District 1B playoff tournament. This time, they would play all the way up in Lummi. Their opponent was the Grace Academy Eagles led by Tulalip tribal members Catherine Velasquez and Tashina Cortez. A trip to Tri-Districts on the line.

The cross-town rivals split their two regular season matchups. In the first, back on January 6, Tulalip won 36-24 at Grace. In the second, played January 30, it was Grace Academy who prevailed 36-34 at Heritage in thrilling fashion thanks, in large part, to Tashina’s late-game heroics.

Prior to the playoff game, assistant coach Deandra Grant admitted, “I can’t even lie, the girls’ energy at practice has been flat. They’ve just been going through the motions, not really fired up for this game at all, but we’re hopeful once the game begins, that competitive spirit will take hold. Especially since we’re playing Grace, a team we’re very familiar with, they know there’s a lot on the line. If I’m predicting an x-factor today, I’m saying the team energy. Not from one player either, the entire team.” 

If nothing else, Round 3 between Tulalip and Grace would be memorable. That honest reflection coach Deandra shared regarding a lack of energy was evident in the early going. Even though the girls only trailed by a single point, 3-4, after one quarter of play, they just appeared to be lagging. Shooting air balls, hitting the bottom of the rim, and even the side of the backboard on jumpers further demonstrated the energy being off from the usually high-spirited Lady Hawks.

Tulalip’s coaches routinely called for “more hustle, ladies!” as the 2nd quarter played out. A midrange jump shot by Lilly Jefferson and a putback layup by Raylee Lewis kept the Lady Hawks in the game, even though they were doubled up, 7-14, at halftime.

Coming out of halftime, several Lady Hawks players shared that their coaches gave them the verbal fuel they needed to ignite their competitive spirits. And, boy, did it show.

It was a completely different level of intensity in the 3rd quarter. The girls were playing light on their feet, jumping passing lanes to come up with steals, and crashing the glass to secure rebounds. Their defense sparked the offense, too. Raylee scored again, Madison Sheldon knocked down two buckets, Janeisha Zackuse scored in the paint, and Aylani Lewis got on the board with a bank shot.

For the entirety of the 3rd quarter, the remarkable turnaround in effort and energy showed on the scoreboard. The Lady Hawks defense only gave up 3 points to Grace, while the Lady Hawks offense was humming. The result was a 17-17 tie entering the 4th quarter. 

On Tulalip’s opening possession in the 4th, the freshman shooter Madison casually knocked down an elbow jumper to put the Lady Hawks up 19-17. Moments later, Grace Academy senior forward and Tulalip tribal member, Catherine, knocked down a baseline jumper to notch the game at 19-19. 

The Lady Hawks immediately countered when Janeisha collected an offensive board and managed to shake off contact to score in the paint. She was also fouled on the play, which meant a trip to the free-throw line for a possible and-1. She calmly made the free throw attempt and put the Lady Hawks up 22-19 with six and a half minutes to go. 

With the defense turned up to the max and the pressure of a playoff W weighing in heavily, neither team mustered any points over the next five minutes. It wasn’t until the 90 second mark that Grace managed to end the scoreless drought when they hit a 3-pointer. Tied again, at 22-22, it was Raylee who collected an offensive rebound and, with a slight pump fake, managed to draw contact and earn a trip to the free throw line. Under a minute to go, Raylee showed major poise and made both free throws. Her Lady Hawks led 24-22.

Thirty seconds on the game clock and with the ball and the lead, Tulalip looked to have the playoff game secured. However, Grace Academy guard and Tulalip tribal member, Tashina, begged to differ. She refused to accept defeat and instead of hanging her head, she came up with a career highlight. Tashina pressed Heritage’s ballhandlers, anticipated a pass perfectly, got a steal, and, with seconds remaining, finished over and around contact by two Lady Hawks. Bucket and the foul. Tashina tied the game at 24-24 with her jumper, then gave Grace a 25-24 lead with a made free throw. Game. Set. Match.

For the Heritage Lady Hawks, it was a devastating loss as their season came to an abrupt end. For Grace’s two Tulalip hoopers, it was a moment of absolute elation. Tashina and Catherine literally jumped for joy when the game clock sounded.

“I couldn’t believe I came up with the steal, but in that moment I knew I had to shoot it as quickly as possible, and fortunately it went in,” said Tashina.
“Tashina’s been clutch for us so many times this season, and to be on the court with her and witness her do it again, it’s amazing,” added Catherine. “I feel bad for the Heritage seniors because this is their final game, but I’m also excited that my senior season isn’t over yet. I’m not done.”

A quick look was shared between her and Tashina. The pair are more like sisters than teammates. Then Catherine corrected herself, “We’re not done!”

Michael Glen Pablo Sr.

Michael Glen Pablo Sr. was born on January 30, 1978, and passed away peacefully on January 29, 2026, surrounded by family.

Michael was a proud father and grandfather, and his greatest joy in life was his family. He was a dedicated fisherman who found peace and purpose on the water. Fishing was not just a livelihood; it was a way of life he carried with pride.

In addition to fishing, Michael was a talented carver, served on the Fish Commission, and was a skilled carpenter. He was a natural leader, someone who was never afraid to stand up, speak out, and represent his people. Whether in a meeting or a room full of others, he spoke with confidence and pride, from his heart.

Michael is survived by his eight children: Michael Jr. (Taylor), Mikaylee (Nyamel), Ruth, JC, Lincoln, Madison, James, and Paiten; and his beloved granddaughter, Xeraya.

He is also survived by his parents, Teresa Sligar and Dan Pablo Sr. (Stephanie); his siblings, Summer White (Kanim), Dan Pablo Jr. (Kelsie), Nicole Pablo, Cory Pablo (Samantha), Stan Rude (Shandra), Destiny Sligar, Jennifer Youngblood, and Jessey Price; his nieces and nephews: Anthony (Michelle), Rielly, Sierra, Terren, Keldan, Kileea, Kalese, Kaylani, Eternity, Jimya, Daylen, Jimmy Jr., Summer, Violet, Alexis, Jezi, Max, and Emma; and many great nieces and nephews.

Michael was preceded in death by his grandparents: Louis Pablo Sr., Leota Pablo, Violet “Speedy” Parks, Orivelle Harrison, Glen Parks, and Elida Parks.

Michael will be remembered as a leader, a man who carried himself with pride and spoke for those he represented. His legacy lives on through his children, granddaughter, family, and the traditions he upheld.

Celebrating the Super Bowl Champs

By Micheal Rios, Tulalip News

“This year’s Seahawks team brought all of Seattle together with the strongest, loudest, and most united spirit I’ve ever seen,” Seattle Mayor Katie Wilson said. “And they delivered in historic fashion, beating the Patriots and bringing a second Lombardi Trophy home to Seattle. Now it’s time to celebrate.”

When the Seahawks secured their second Super Bowl championship, with a dominant 29-13 win over the Patriots, the celebration spread well beyond the Seattle skyline and into Coast Salish communities throughout the region. From living rooms and community centers to family watch parties, Native Seahawks fans came together to celebrate their team that holds a special place within the culture.

A Familiar Symbol

The Seahawks logo, inspired by Northwest Coast formline art, has been embraced by Coast Salish people for decades. Its bold lines and distinctive eye mirror artistic traditions that have been passed down through generations. Across Coast Salish territory, the logo appears in beadwork, carvings, clothing, and contemporary artwork, often reinterpreted in ways that honor family, culture, and community.

Rather than being seen as a distant sports brand, the Seahawk has become something recognizable and personal. For many families, supporting the Seahawks has become a tradition, one passed down alongside stories, teachings, and time spent together on game days.

“My dad and I moved to the Seattle area in 1991, but he had already been rooting for the Seahawks since their conception in 1976,” recalled Seahawks fanatic and devout 12th Man member Trisha Montero. “My dad took me to my first Seahawks game in 1993, when they still played in the Kingdome. I became a fan for life that day.

“My dad has been a season ticket holder since 1995. It’s impossible to say how many games we’ve been to, but what I can say for certain is we are truly immersed in everything Seahawks,” she continued. “A lot of people recognize my dad come game days for his legendary conch shell. He’s been bringing it to games for over 30 years. Fox Sports even tracked him down and labeled him a Seattle Seahawks super fan in a playoff commercial they ran this past season. 

“I am just so proud of our Seahawks for winning the Super Bowl, again my dad and I are loud and proud and will bleed blue and green forever.”

Building Relationships, Not Just Branding

The Seahawks’ connection to Coast Salish tribes has also been shaped by meaningful partnerships, particularly with the Muckleshoot Tribe. At Lumen Field, Muckleshoot Plaza stands as a visible acknowledgment of Indigenous presence, featuring Coast Salish artwork, Lushootseed language, and imagery tied to the region’s original people.

“This artwork will not only inspire our communities but also educate them on the important history of the Native Americans in this region,” said Chuck Arnold, President of the Seattle Seahawks. “We look forward to a long and meaningful partnership for many years to come.”

Beyond the stadium, those partnerships extend into local communities through youth football camps, player visits, and outreach programs. These efforts have provided opportunities for Native youth to interact with Seahawks players, learn the game, and see themselves represented in spaces where Indigenous voices have not always been visible.

A Championship Felt at Home

As the Seahawks celebrated their Super Bowl LX win on the national stage, Coast Salish fans celebrated closer to home. Families gathered around televisions, elders and youth alike sharing in the excitement of the moment. For many, the victory was a reminder of how sports can bring people together, even those who don’t consider themselves among the devoted fan base. 

“I don’t consider myself a football fan. I didn’t even watch the game,” admitted Tulalip tribal member Topo Jones. “But I could hear the fireworks going off in my neighborhood, which let me know the Seahawks were scoring a lot. Once people got to lighting off bombs and those huge cakes, I knew the Seahawks won. That’s cool, I guess.”

More Than a Team

In Coast Salish country, the Seahawks are intrinsically tied to the region’s modern-day story. They are woven into daily life, community pride, and cultural expression. As fans look back on an unforgettable 2025-2026 championship season, the celebrations will continue as a reflection of community connection, visibility, and shared success. Go Hawks!

Fatherhood is not meant to be carried alone

By Wade Sheldon, Tulalip News  

In the wake of recent violence in the community, including the attack on a Tulalip elder that deeply impacted many families, a group of fathers is choosing to respond with reflection and action. Every Wednesday afternoon, men gather at the Tulalip Recovery Center for the Dad’s Group, a program organized through Tulalip Behavioral Health that focuses on strengthening fatherhood, supporting men’s mental health, and building unity among parents. The conversations are honest, at times emotional, and centered on one shared goal: becoming better fathers for the sake of their children and their community. 

Tribal member Albert Jimicum said the recent incident involving the youth and the attack on the elder was a turning point for him. As he reflected on what brought him to the group, he described feeling concerned about the direction some young people are heading and wondering how things might look different if stronger guidance had been present earlier in their lives. “What brought me here at first was seeing the at-risk youth and what has recently happened in our community,” Albert said. He explained that situations may have had different outcomes if children had been raised with different tools and stronger emotional support. For him, attending the group is about stepping up and helping shift that trajectory. 

Albert emphasized that he did not come to the group seeking something for himself. Instead, he framed his participation as an opportunity to give back and stand in solidarity with other fathers. “I would rather give support to other fathers who are here and come together in unity and see us all strive as parents.” His words reflected a sense of shared responsibility, the understanding that fatherhood is not meant to be carried alone. 

When asked what fatherhood means to him right now, Albert answered with honesty rather than certainty. “I am still trying to figure it out,” he admitted. He elaborated that fatherhood is a constant learning process. He wants his children to remember him as loving and present, someone they can look to as an example when they become parents themselves. He spoke about wanting his kids to enjoy their childhoods without the weight of adult problems, something he felt he had experienced too early in his own life. Albert also shared that one of the lessons he wants to pass down is emotional awareness, explaining that anger is often a secondary emotion and that learning to pause and think before reacting can change the course of a young person’s life. 

The dad’s group is led by Avel Medina of Tulalip Behavioral Health. He explained that the idea for the group had been encouraged by Sasha Smith, Youth and Family Support Coordinator at Family Haven. For some time, Avel did not feel ready to take on the responsibility. However, after reflecting on troubling events in the community, he said something shifted. He realized that others needed a dedicated space to come together, talk openly, and support one another in a structured setting.

Avel described the group as a safe place where dads can share ideas, get things off their chest, and learn new approaches to parenting. When asked what a healthy father figure looks like, he responded without hesitation, “Being present.” He went on to explain that presence means more than providing financially. It means showing up, emotionally communicating in healthy ways, and applying discipline with consistency and respect. In his experience, many children in the community have grown up without steady father figures. He believes that when fathers are actively involved, they help establish structure, accountability, and a sense of security that carries into adulthood.

He also addressed the broader impact of fatherhood on community health. Many of the challenges facing Native communities are connected to generational trauma, substance abuse, and disrupted family structures. Programs like the Dad’s Group are designed to interrupt that cycle. National data highlights the urgency of this work. 

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, men in the United States are nearly four times more likely to die by suicide than women. The Indian Health Services reports that American Indian and Alaskan native communities experienced disproportionately high suicide rates, particularly among men. These statistics highlight the importance of culturally grounded spaces where Native fathers can speak openly about stress, trauma, and the pressures of parenting.

Beyond emotional support, the group also addresses practical challenges. Avel noted that some fathers navigating the court system are addressing beda?chelh matters during meetings. Dads can ask questions about how to write emotion, how to speak appropriately in the courtroom, and how to advocate effectively for their children. These conversations blend emotional growth with real-world tools, helping fathers build confidence in multiple areas of their lives.

Looking ahead, Avel hopes the group continues to grow. He recalled that at a previous meeting, several children were present, which he viewed as meaningful. He believes it is powerful for kids to witness their fathers showing up, listening, and working on themselves. When children see that effort, it reinforces the message that they matter.

At a time when the community is working through pain and searching for solutions, the Dad’s Group offers a steady, proactive approach. Rather than waiting for change, these fathers are choosing to be part of it. Through accountability support and honest conversations, they are strengthening themselves to better guide the next generation.

The Dad’s Group meets every Wednesday at 4:30 at the Tulalip Recovery Center. Fathers and father figures are encouraged to attend. 

Lady Hawks show out defensively, earn playoff W

By Micheal Rios, Tulalip News

After falling to Lopez Island in the opening round of the District 1B playoffs, the (7-12) Tulalip Heritage girls basketball team found themselves in high stakes matchup with Shoreline Christian. How high were the stakes? Loser-out high.

Fortunately, the pivotal game was played at home, at Francy J. Sheldon gymnasium, on Saturday, February 7. With the home crowd cheering them on, the Lady Hawks took to court eager to extend their season.

“We’ve been working hard at practice in anticipation of this game. Our top priority has been getting everyone on the same page defensively,” explained head coach Katia Brown. “Our defense, especially in transition, hasn’t been good enough lately. So, we’ve decided to implement a 1-3-1 defense in the hopes of filling those holes. It’s a work in progress, but the girls have been adapting to it well.”

There’s nothing quite like the pressure of a playoff game to motivate a team to buy in. And that’s exactly what that Lady Hawks did in an impressive showing against Shoreline. For starters, the new defensive strategy caught their opponents completely off guard. Shoreline only mustered a single point, from the free-throw line, in the 1st quarter. The Lady Hawks led 8-1 after one quarter and 16-6 at halftime. 

In the 3rd quarter, the Lady Hawks offense got going. Timely buckets by Aylani and Raylee Lewis, Janeisha Zackuse, and Omelia Frazier put Tulalip ahead 28-10 with mere minutes remaining. They’d go on to win the game 35-17, earning not just the W but an additional game in these playoffs. 

Aylani led all scorers with 11 points, while Madison added 9 points. Multiple Lady Hawks had 3+ steals. Omelia had an astounding 8 steals by herself, which punctuated how effective a properly played 1-3-1 defense can be.

“I know I’m not that great at offense, so I make up for it with defense. My coaches trust my instincts to go for the ball and it paid off big today,” said Omelia postgame. “We knew this was a loser-out game and we didn’t want to be out. We said we were going to win this game and we did.”

Her fellow Lady Hawk, Janeisha, added, “This win really means a lot. We didn’t want the season to end, especially not with a loss here at home. We played all out. I’m really proud of our team.”

Hawks soar in back-to-back playoff games

By Micheal Rios, Tulalip News

Opening Round vs. Grace

The (16-4) Heritage Hawks entered the District 1B playoffs as the #2 seed. After a chaotic regular season that saw multiple game postponements and a rash of injuries that sidelined several players, the coaching staff is hopeful the turbulence is finally behind them. Leaving nothing but smooth sailing as they hope to peak in the playoffs. 

“Between the weather and flooding in December and the players we had in and out of the lineup due to injuries, the first half the season was chaotic, to say the least,” shared head coach Shawn Sanchey. “We finally have a roster at full health and have been able to get our reps in at practice. I feel like we’re just now getting into our flow. We want to keep that momentum going now that it’s playoff time, and hopefully everything will peak for us as we officially begin our march to State.”

Their opening round opponent was Grace Academy. The game was played at Francy J. Sheldon gymnasium on Thursday, February 5. 

From the opening tip it was all Hawks, all the time. Offensively, seven Hawks scored in the 1st quarter. Everyone being a willing passer and giving up a good shot for a great one made it impossible for Grace Academy to play effective defense. Heritage jumped out to a 22-6 lead, which they extended to 52-12 at halftime. 

Sophomore shooting guard Tayari Archibald led all scorers at halftime with 13 points. He had the home crowd oohing and awing with his long-range shooting. He even splashed a 3-pointer from well behind the arc, nearly Steph Curry range, right before intermission. 

“I didn’t even know I was that far back, to be honest,” said Yari. “I was feeling good against their zone and knew I could get my shot anytime because they’re slow to recover.”

The sophomore shooter remained hot in the second half and went on to lead his team with 20 points, including four made 3-pointers, in a 102-24 route of Grace Academy. It’s worth noting that all eleven varsity boys scored a bucket in the game and six players scored in double figures. 

Second Round vs. Darrington

After picking up their first playoff win and 17th overall W of the year, the Heritage Hawks earned the right to host another home game. This time it was against Darrington. Game played on Saturday, February 7.

In the early going, it appeared Heritage would get some actual competition. Darrington connected on their first two 3-point attempts and held a 6-4 lead. That lead would be short-lived. Unlike the last game, where Heritage thrived from behind the 3-point line, this game they found great success attacking the basket. One Hawk after another got into the painted area and found themselves with an uncontested basket. Of their 11 made field goals in the opening quarter, 10 were 2-pointers. Tulalip was up 22-9 after one.

Meanwhile, Heritage’s man defense was wreaking havoc on Darrington’s ballhandlers all night long. Steal after steal resulted in uncontested, fast break points for the Hawks. Tulalip went up by 20 points midway through the 2nd quarter, 33-13, when Darrington called a timeout. 

Even after the timeout, Darrington was unable to execute their plays vs. the speedy hands of Hawks defenders who routinely anticipated the pass before it was made. With their defense igniting the offense, and the boys remaining in attack mode, Heritage took a commanding 49-16 lead into halftime. 

Junior guard J.J. Gray led all scorers at halftime with 13 points. As the shortest player on the team, his buckets seemed to be the loudest. With a full head of steam, he penetrated the heart of Darrington’s defense at will. More often than not, he’d convert an acrobatic layup just outside the reach of would-be defenders. 

“I’m just playing my game,” said J.J. who is nearing his 1,000th high school point. “It’s a team game, too, so I’m sharing the ball and hitting my teammates when they are open. I know I’ll get that 1,000th point soon enough. Right now, I just want to keep stacking these wins.”

Heritage went on to dispatch Darrington with another emphatic win. This time by the score of 81-45. Sophomore Tayari again led all scorers with 22 points. Davien scored 15 points and J.J. added 14 points. 

Head coach Shawn Sanchey said, “It’s been a long season. These latest wins feel like we’re nearing our peak and playing our best version of team ball. Now is the time for all the hard work to show, and if we can keep this up then we’ll be at the top of mountain, right where we want to be.”

Waynetta Joy Iukes

Waynetta Joy Iukes was born on September 25, 1969, and passed away on February 3, 2026. 

She was preceded in death by her mother, Geraldine Williams, and by Byron Iukes. 

Waynetta is survived by her father, Nelson Iukes Sr. and her father, Arthur Williams Sr.; her children, Melinda Napeahi, Nahale Napeahi, and Marquell Napeahi;her grandchildren Tessa, Kaeden, Maia, Alissa, and Karson; her siblings, Ron Iukes, Rose Iukes, Nelson Iukes Jr., Allen Iukes, George Williams, Jacqueline Williams, Jobey Williams, Carnegie Williams and Veronica Iukes; and numerous nieces and nephews. Waynetta had a heart that embraced everyone she loved and cared for and was known as “Nana” to many. Her love knew no bounds. She also shared a very special bond with her best friend, Optimus, who held a treasured place in her heart.

Waynetta will be remembered for her kind and generous heart, her unconditional love for family, and the warmth she showed to everyone she met. She touched countless lives and will be deeply missed.

An evening service will be held Wed. Feb. 11, 2026 at 6 PM at the Tulalip Gathering Hall. Funeral Service will be Thursday, Feb. 12, 2026 at 9 AM at the Gathering Hall with burial at Mission Beach Cemetery.