Health Archives - Tulalip News

Season of Healing honors Tulalip elders

By Wade Sheldon, Tulalip News

The second gathering of Tulalip’s Season of Healing series was held on the evening of November 4 at the Tulalip Gathering Hall. It was a night filled with reflection, laughter, and deep appreciation for the generations who built the foundation of the community. The event centered on honoring the elders and returning to the old ways, reminding everyone of the wisdom and strength embodied in their teachings.

The evening was guided by MC Deyamonta Diaz, with thoughtful words shared by Board of Directors members Marlin Fryberg Jr., Theresa Sheldon, Ray Fryberg, and Deborah Parker. Community members filled the hall, greeted by the comforting aroma of roast beef and all the fixings prepared by Martin Napeahi. The dinner set a warm tone for what became an evening of gratitude and remembrance.

As the singers and drummers filled the room, the elders were wrapped in blankets, a powerful symbol of respect and care. Witnesses to the ceremony included Tammy Taylor, Hank Williams, Mike Gobin, and Sherry Guzman, who ensured the work done that night was carried forward in spirit and memory.

Dale Jones spoke passionately about cherishing the wisdom of those who came before. “Enjoy your elders while you have them,” he said. “You don’t realize how fast time goes. If it weren’t for all the elders who came before us, we wouldn’t have all this. Sixty or seventy years ago, there was nothing here.” He reminded everyone of the sacrifices that allowed Tulalip to grow, adding, “We have a lot to hold on to, the trees and the water. The non-tribal people want that. Water is going to be very important over the next few years.”

Ray Fryberg spoke about the deeper purpose of the Season of Healing and the need to reclaim what was taken from Indigenous people. “We know the traumas that came from boarding schools, the loss of land, and everything that came with being Indian,” he said. “When we identify the source of this suffering, we can begin to heal it. They tried to strip away our spirituality and identity, but those same things are what we need to bring back.” He emphasized that healing begins by restoring traditional values. “We need to take care of one another, raise our children to know their responsibilities, and build self-identity and self-esteem through culture.”

Deborah Parker reminded the community of its blessings. “There are people who are struggling and depending on government support,” she said. “We keep all those relatives in our prayers. For us in Tulalip, we are enormously blessed to have what we have, but the true blessings are our elders.”

For Theresa Sheldon, the night represented a return to the closeness and care that once defined Tulalip life. “There was an acknowledgement that many in our community don’t feel safe,” she said. “So the Season of Healing came together to bring back what we grew up with, that feeling of belonging.” She shared a fond memory of visiting elders as a youth. “I remember sitting on the couches, having coffee with our elders. The scariest thing they could ask you was, ‘Who are your parents?’ That meant you were doing something right. We come from such a beautiful legacy of people. If there’s ever a moment you don’t feel appreciated, know that you are the foundation of who we are. We remember the sacrifices you’ve made so we could live.”

Elder Tammy Taylor reflected on her own journey and the lessons that shaped her. “I guess I’m a junior elder,” she said with a smile. “I remember waiting in my grandma’s car for hours while she was at work, just sitting and behaving. We sang songs that we still sing today. Those teachings, to listen, behave, and sing, came from my relatives. Our ancestors are still teaching us to love one another and to pass that on to the next generation.”

Marlin Fryberg Jr. shared heartfelt words about what it means to step into his role as a young elder. “I’ve been really fortunate to sit with some of the folks you all grew up with,” he said. “I got the finger, sit down, shut up, keep your ears open.” He spoke about carrying those teachings forward. “My role now is to share what I know with those who want to listen. Because it’s my obligation to carry on the teachings that I was taught. Some weren’t easy, but they made me who I am.”

He went on to speak about accountability and preparation for future generations. “We have to stand up and guide our youth to be assertive, because they’re going to be the elders soon. What will they have to offer if they don’t want to listen now?” He recalled learning hard lessons in the smokehouse, saying, “Those days weren’t fun, but those elders saw something in me. They told me to keep going, and I did. One thing they always said was to take care of your elders, take care of your youth, and take care of your families.”

Marlin closed his remarks by thanking Theresa Sheldon for organizing the event. “That’s why we’re here, to heal,” he said. “We all have our own issues, but we come together to work through them. That’s what our elders taught us to do.”

As the night came to a close, tribal elder Denise Sheldon reflected on the meaning of the evening. “It felt excellent,” she said. “It felt like a warm hug. The food was good, the turnout was good, and the speakers were good. I mean, the community does need healing.”

The Season of Healing remains a space where Tulalip’s people gather to listen, reflect, and heal together. The night served as a reminder that strength comes from the teachings of those who came before, and that the love between generations will always guide the community forward.

The next Season of Healing event will be held on December 9, featuring guest speaker Camie Goldhammer, founder and executive director of Hummingbird Indigenous Family Services. The ceremony will focus on building a Strong Foundation.

Tulalip Health introduces new Aquatic Physical Therapy program

By Wade Sheldon, Tulalip News

Physical therapy has long been proven to help individuals regain strength, mobility, and independence, particularly after an injury or surgery. However, recent studies indicate that aquatic physical therapy can enhance these benefits even further. The buoyancy of water reduces stress on joints, making movement easier and less painful, while the resistance naturally strengthens muscles and improves balance. Research published in the JAMA Network Open found that patients who participated in aquatic therapy experienced longer-lasting relief from chronic pain and improved mobility compared to those who received traditional land-based therapy. Water’s hydrostatic pressure also improves circulation and stability, allowing participants to move freely and safely while rebuilding confidence in their bodies.

That same philosophy of movement through healing water is now being offered to Tulalip community members through the new Aquatic Physical Therapy program led by physical therapist Agnes Borjal of the Tulalip Health Clinic. The program, held at the Stanwood YMCA, represents a thoughtful blend of science, accessibility, and cultural connection.

Agnes explained that the decision to host the program in Stanwood was made after carefully evaluating several nearby facilities. “My background with aquatic physical therapy is that I had been working at the Everett YMCA with Providence Physical Therapy, and I created the aquatic program there,” she said. “The amenities were essentially the reason why we chose Stanwood. We originally tried to get the Everett locale, but they had so many programs, and I didn’t want our elders or patients to feel rushed to participate in their aquatic program. Then we looked at the Marysville Y, but it didn’t have the riverwalk or stairs into the pool space. The Stanwood YMCA mirrored what I had created before at Everett, and I knew patients would feel more comfortable with that kind of timing.”

Her passion for water therapy runs deeper than convenience or logistics. It is rooted in understanding how water connects to the Tulalip community’s identity. “Learning about the history of the Tulalip Tribes, I’m essentially an outsider. I’m Indigenous to my culture, which is the Philippines, but learning about the Coast Salish tribes and how water was so fundamental in their life, I felt like pool therapy would be so meaningful as a medium,” she said. “Water is healing. We talk about movement being medicine, but in my 20 years as a therapist, I’ve learned that the medium of water brings its own properties into that healing space. I love that historic background for the tribe.”

When Agnes joined the Tulalip Health Clinic, she saw an opportunity to expand the integrative health program to include aquatic therapy. “Coming onto the team, I loved the direction the clinic was taking,” she said. “They had this holistic vision of Native health, healing, Reiki, massage therapy, acupuncture, and physical therapy, and I wanted to bring in another aspect for our skilled PT services. I asked, ‘Have you considered aquatic physical therapy?’ because of chronic pain. At my previous clinic, we successfully transitioned many of our chronic pain patients into aquatic programs, not just for the physical benefits, but also for the social ones. Group sessions foster connections and promote wellness beyond just recovery. Since Tulalip already had partnerships with the YMCA, it made sense to create this bridge for patients to feel safe and supported in that space.”

Each aquatic therapy session begins on land at the Tulalip Health Clinic, where a physician’s referral helps determine treatment needs. “You’ll see me on land first because our goal is always to perform better on land,” Agnes said. “The first visit is a session in the clinic, and then we move into the water. We do warm-ups, balance and endurance exercises, and cool-downs, just like on land. However, underwater, we can also perform manual therapy, which is really enjoyable. Patients can experience weightless posture, and their joint and muscle tensions release in a totally different way.”

The program is designed for individuals facing chronic pain, arthritis, mobility challenges, or those recovering from surgery. “It’s great for people with multiple joint pain, chronic pain issues, or balance problems, and for anyone who has a high fall risk or struggles to exercise on land,” Agnes said. “Because a physician prescribes the therapy, it’s covered through insurance for Tulalip Health Clinic patients.”

Currently, the Aquatic Physical Therapy program is exclusively available to Tulalip tribal members who receive care through the Tulalip Health Clinic. Because it’s a medically prescribed service rather than a public exercise class, participants are referred directly by their healthcare providers.

Since the sessions take place at the Stanwood YMCA, about a 25-minute drive from Tulalip, transportation can be a consideration for some patients. Currently, there is no formal shuttle or group transportation in place, although the idea has been discussed among clinic staff and community programs.

“Right now, our physical therapy patients are getting to the Stanwood YMCA on their own,” Agnes explained. “There have been early discussions about possible transportation support through the senior program or community health, but since the program is still new, patients are currently responsible for arranging their own rides.”

Since its recent launch, the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. “They’ve loved it,” Agnes said with a smile. “Usually, sessions start one-on-one, then move into duet or group sessions. I think the biggest thing is that people are learning how their bodies respond to active recovery. I’ve seen so much improvement, especially among patients preparing for surgery. Some are waiting on knee replacements and tell me how much better they feel just being able to move their whole body again.”

The partnership with the Stanwood YMCA has also been strong. “They’ve been so welcoming and kind,” Agnes said. “The staff and regular members are supportive, and I’ve had patients say how comfortable they feel there. Some people even ask if they can join our sessions, but I remind them it’s exclusive for Tulalip Health Connect patients, which is kind of neat because it shows how visible and valued the program is becoming.”

When asked how she measures success, Agnes didn’t hesitate. “It’ll come from our patients, their outcomes, how they feel treated, and how their recovery carries forward,” she said. “Our goal is to help them become independent with a mindful movement program for themselves. The true testament is when they can go back to their normal routines, gardening, fishing, preparing their boats, without worrying about pain holding them back.”

For anyone hesitant to try aquatic therapy, her message is simple. “This is an environment meant to help your body feel lighter and freer,” she said. “Let the water support you. Let it help you find movement again.”

Agnes hopes this new program will become a lasting part of Tulalip’s larger health and wellness journey. “I think this is one of those things that can help inspire,” she said. “Learning about the Coast Salish tribes and their water connection, I see how resilient the Tulalip people are, always doing their best for their community. This program is a reflection of that. We just want to do our best by the people, following the Tribe’s vision, mission, and values.”

Harvesting Health

By Micheal Rios, Tulalip News

On an early fall morning, the fields behind Garden Treasures Nursery & Organic Farm in Arlington buzzed with kinetic energy. Elders leaning on canes, parents pushing toddlers in wagons, and teens with pruners in hand made the short journey north by carload to pick fresh produce. The occasion was a community U-Pick organized by Tulalip’s Diabetes Care & Prevention Program, in partnership with Garden Treasures, to reconnect tribal members of all ages with the land’s luscious bounty and time-honored dietary traditions.

The annual U-Pick is part of a concerted effort by the Diabetes Prevention team to reverse rising trends of diabetes and metabolic disorders in Native communities. By encouraging people to harvest their own fruits and vegetables, the program is generating a path to healthier living through cultural reconnection and food sovereignty.

“Over the last 14 years, our partnership with the farmers at Garden Treasures has been a steady source of learning and shared purpose,” explained program coordinator Roni Leahy. “When COVID struck, and we could no longer bring healthy people into the health clinic because of the risks of treating those who were ill, we turned to the farm as a safe place to gather. Out of that difficult time, the U-Pick days were born. What started as a way to keep our community connected and nourished during the pandemic has now become one of the most joyful and inspiring traditions we share”

Nestled in the Stillaguamish Valley, Garden Treasures supplies a wide seasonal palette of vegetables, berries, and fruit. From tomatoes and beans to peaches, potatoes, and winter squash. The farm’s ownership is committed to naturally grown, bio-regenerative production that makes it an ideal partner for health and community initiatives to provide access to the freshest farm-grown produce possible.

For our Diabetes Care & Prevention Program, the opportunity to host another U-Pick at Garden Treasures unites with a larger mission to restore traditional diets. Staff eagerly guided more than 500 community members through the farm’s acres of freshly grown food before organizing an on-site, do-it-yourself pickling activity.

“We want to bring people back to what our ancestors knew – that food is medicine,” said food sovereignty coordinator Rudy Madrigal. He organized the pickling activity that was well-received by one family after another who pickled their favorite veggies. “A big part of food sovereignty is education and teaching yourself and your family how to preserve, so we decided to offer a pickling station. It’s super easy to learn and a fun, family-friendly activity that the kids can do, too.

“At the end of the day, it’s all about education, making learning fun for our people, and changing what we’re eating at home so we can live longer, healthier lives.”

A truly memorable event for those in attendance who sat mesmerized as elders shared memories of picking fruits and veggies from their childhoods, preserving and canning with aunties and grandmothers, and even shared a recipe or two for hearty, nutritious stews that are primo options for a vegetable medley.

“This is such an exciting event. I absolutely love it!” exclaimed rez-renowned chef Lynette Jimicum as she showed off her harvest of Roma tomatoes, bell peppers, garlic, onions, and zucchini. “Everything here is so fresh and good for our bodies. I can’t wait to cook with my vegetable harvest.

“There are definitely some people here who are seeing how their food is grown for the very first time, and you can see the excitement in their faces as they roam from garden to garden,” added the soon-to-be Tulalip elder. “I watched one family be in complete awe in the kale garden. They thought kale grew in a tree, not low on the ground like lettuce. Now, they’ll have the memory forever and, hopefully, they add kale as staple to their kitchen and laugh over that story for a long, long time.”

By harvesting their own food, the U-Pick participants bypassed industrial food chains filled with refined sugars and processed carbohydrates. They also reclaimed, even if just for the day, what colonization intended to sever – the connection between people, land, and nourishment.

The Diabetes Care team sees these U-Pick opportunities not as a one-time outreach, but a seedbed for sustainable change. It’s about mobility, quality of life, and dignity for all our people. When elders are stronger, when parents feel less disease burden, when children grow up with taste memories of sweet berries and savory vegetables instead of sugary snacks, the ripple effects are profound.

“To witness our community’s growing excitement for harvesting, cooking, and experimenting with new foods is not only deeply meaningful to me, personally, but also reflects the very heart of our Program’s mission,” shared Roni. She’s been diligently coordinating diabetes prevention in Tulalip for the past 17 years.

“It shows that families are feeding their children more nutritious meals, perhaps even rethinking their relationship with food and how food affects our bodies, and becoming more creative in their kitchens with colorful, nutritious foods,” she continued. “Seeing this transformation fills me with hope because it affirms that through resilience, collaboration, and tradition, we are cultivating healthier generations for the future.”

The link between consistent nutritional habits and metabolic health is well documented. Those who regularly eat foods rich in fiber, phytonutrients, and low in processed sugars reduce risk factors for type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and obesity. For Native communities disproportionately impacted by these conditions, nutritional education is a powerful tool. By bringing elders, adults, and children together at a local farm under the promise of fresh food, Tulalip’s Diabetes Care & Prevention Program is fighting common ailments in our community, while also sowing the seeds for a future rooted in traditional teachings and vibrant bodies.

This fall’s U-Pick may have wrapped up in a single day, but its harvest lives on. In edible memories, in strengthened bodies, and in renewed commitment to establishing the mind-body-spirt connection within our shared Tulalip community. And that’s a harvest worth celebrating.

Family Spirit: Supporting your parenting journey

By Kalvin Valdillez, Tulalip News

Tulalip Family Haven knocked it out of the park when selecting Sasha Smith and Alayna Helland to run the Tribe’s Family Spirit program because they are two of the liveliest spirits you could meet. They are relatable, enthusiastic, caring, and quite frankly, funny as hell. It is often said that it takes a village to raise a child, but with just the support from these two ladies, who exude big auntie energy, you could be set from prenatal ‘til your kiddo hits the age of five.

“We say that we’re professional aunties,” Alayna exclaimed. “We do wraparound services. I can work with moms from pregnancy up to three, and Sasha can work with moms from pregnancy up to five. One of our goals is to get them started with our services when they’re pregnant, because we do prenatal health and then we also promote healthy early childhood learning.”

Family Spirit has been around for a few years, and has helped many families, but it is presently going through a bit of a rebrand in hopes of drawing in more people to participate in the program. Through Family Spirit, clients will gain access to a number of resources as well as learn new tools to help their babies thrive and be happy and healthy throughout early childhood.

As many parents know, those early stages are crucially important in a child’s life. And for both new parents and experienced guardians alike, this era can sometimes be overwhelming. But have no fear, if you are raising a young Tulalip tribal member and need additional support, Family Spirit is here.

Said Alayna, “We give personalized support, emotional support, we help with child development support, and we also do parenting skills, like more on the behavioral side. We teach things like consistency and positive parenting tips. And we also help connect them to resources. Like right now, I’m helping somebody get enrolled in behavioral health because they want to do counseling. We can help people get into WIC, and we can also provide transportation to things like medical appointments. A huge part of our job is providing that emotional support.”

“We really want to just connect with them where they’re at in their parenting journey and help them navigate through all of that,” adds Sasha. “We hold a lot of knowledge of resources. They come to us for the resources because we’re connecting with everybody – the courthouse, TELA, the Recovery Resource Center, homeless shelter, Family Services, the health clinic. We’re constantly gathering those resources and thinking of how we can help promote wellness and community for our families.”

The ladies also explained that they provide screenings for the young ones to gauge where they are at in early childhood development, assessing things such as communication skills, fine motor skills, and social-emotional skills. This helps identify areas where the child may need a little extra support. And by doing this work, parents are then able to set goals and further engage with their kids in a fun and meaningful way while focusing on those specific areas.

“There are different milestones where we’ll do ASQ’s, which is a tool we use to see where the kids are at developmentally,” Sasha explained. “So, at six months, nine months, twelve months, we’ll sit down with the family, and we’ll talk about fine motor skills. Are they talking? Are they walking? And if they aren’t, then let’s bring in materials and get you and your baby to play together, encouraging a certain kind of play so you can work on that together. And we’re not putting that on the parent like they’re doing something wrong or something that isn’t right. It’s more about how do we support them through that? Maybe they just didn’t realize that at this certain age they should be doing certain things.”

Another aspect that Family Spirit focuses on is the mental wellbeing of the parent, through pregnancy, postpartum, and during the early phase of parenthood. Parents and guardians are encouraged to participate in Family Haven’s weekly peer support groups such as Mom’s Group and Dad’s Group in order to interact with likeminded folk and build community with each other. By doing this, the parents will be able to relate to any challenges they face and celebrate each other’s triumphs, and also offer any advice that could be useful to other parents along their journey.

So, if you are a parent or guardian of a Tribal member under the age of five, and could use additional support, resources, or parenting skills, be sure to reach out to Family Spirit. And if you have any anxiety of participating in a program like this, a few moments with Sasha and Alayna will help ease that pressure and you will soon forget all about it because you will be too busy rolling with laughter.

“We really want to increase enrollment,” Alayna stated. “If you need an extra support person in your corner, or if you just want to hang out with a mom like me, we really want families who want to participate. What is at the forefront for you and your family right now, what do you want to work on for you and your kids? And wherever you’re at in life, we’ll meet you there.”

Sasha voiced, “It really is a journey because we incorporate the culture and make sure we’re honoring each family’s individual needs; like where do they want to be and how do they want to raise their family? It’s not us coming in and telling them how to be. It’s homing in on what their experiences of what a family should or could be. Because every family is different, they have different styles, cultural beliefs. We just want everybody to see and understand what Family Spirit is, how supportive it is and how it can benefit your family.”

For more information about Family Spirit, please contact (360) 716-3284 or visit www.tulaliptribes-nsn.gov/Dept/FamilyHaven. And be sure to give the Tulalip Mom’s Group Facebook page a like to stay up to date on any upcoming events and activities.

Wellness Court alumni hosts first annual resource event

By Kalvin Valdillez, Tulalip News

From the northside Tulalip Resort Casino parking lot, you could hear the sound of music, laughter, excited conversations, and an occasional joyous shriek, followed by a kerplunk and splish-splash of water, on the afternoon of September 3. It was an 80-degree day and though the volunteers of the large dunk tank, at the center of the Tulalip Amphitheater, feigned terror of falling into the tank, one could easily surmise that they felt a bit of relief from the weather once they hit the cold water.

Fold in tables with portable awnings were placed along the vendor plateau of the amphitheater. And catching some shade underneath the canopies were friendly faces who were ready to answer any questions from the local recovery community. In addition to the many information booths, there was also a dedicated hair braiding area, a lemonade stand, a hot dog kiosk, and a haircut station. There were smiles everywhere you looked as both participants and graduates of the Tulalip Healing to Wellness Court caught up with each other and visited the resource tables.

“I came out today in honor of past family and friends, to support my own sobriety, and to come together with the sobriety community and enjoy time with my friends,” shared Wellness Court participant, Victor Garcia. “I visited pretty much all of the booths today, the dunk tank, Erika’s lemonade, and I got my haircut. It’s a really cool event and a lot of fun.”

Over the past several years, the Healing to Wellness Court has had a significant impact on the Tulalip community. The intensive program has helped many Tribal members find sobriety with a personalized 18-month plan that always incorporates a cultural component. Through group therapy and events, the people in the Wellness Court have developed community and found strength in supporting one another.

Recently, a number of graduates of the program created an alumni group where they meet twice a week at the Tulalip Recovery Resource Center and continue to uplift each other in their daily lives.

Erika Moore, Wellness Court Treatment Coordinator, explained, “We’ve been trying to start an alumni group for the longest time because we wanted people to be able to have a fun and safe place to go after Wellness Court. We finally got a group of people who all like to hang out. The alumni is just a group of friends who enjoy helping each other stay in recovery because it’s really hard when you get out in the real world and you don’t have that sober support. And that’s exactly why we built the alumni group.”

Wanting to extend their support to the entire recovery community, the alumni planned this event with an emphasis on helping people access the many resources that Tulalip and its surrounding communities offer.

Said Wellness Court Alum, Kyle Moses, “This is the first big event that we’ve actually done. It’s something that’s needed, because we have support in the courtroom, and certain people have certain groups together. But for us all to be able to come together, outside of the court, outside of our groups, and be there to support each other it’s important. Any resource event is good. There’s a lot of resources that people don’t know about, so being able to see them in person, it’s always a good thing.”

In total, there were a dozen resource tables at the four-hour event including TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families), TOCLA (Tulalip Office of Civil Legal Aid), the Recovery Resource Center, Cocaine Anonymous, Holman Recovery Center, the Washington State Department of Social & Health Services, and the Quil Ceda Creek Counseling Company. The goal for both the alumni and the Wellness Court is to build on this event and grow the number of resource tables and participants year after year.

“This is just the beginning,” exclaimed Leora Jones, Wellness Court Program Manager. “We’re hoping that we can continue this and continue bringing in more resources for the participants and continue to collaborate with all these departments. These are all resources that the participants can benefit from and can help move them along their journey. I think that a lot of people don’t know that these resources are available through the Tribe. And so, the idea of it was to bring them all in one place and have the participants be able to go to each booth and see what’s available for them. And the dunk tank was just a bonus. It’s so great for the participants and the alumni to come together. I think that just having them in a group setting like this, they thrive off of each other. They understand each other’s struggle; they want to help each other. And that’s what we want for them.”

After winning a hat in the raffle, Victor took a moment to share, “It’s a really loving feeling, that’s for sure. To be able to have [the alumni] there for you, as well as the Wellness Court. They watch out for us, they help keep us on track, they hold us accountable, and they give us the tools we need to move forward, even if it’s small steps. I think the sobriety community had a really good time this summer, and this was a good close to the summer.”

Integrating Tulalip culture into modern day parenting with Family Haven

By Kalvin Valdillez, Tulalip News

Have you heard about the new program available to Tribal families through Tulalip Family Haven? Centered around Tulalip traditions, stories, and activities, the Cultural Parenting Program helps connect families to their heritage and ancestral teachings while also providing a space for teens and parents to grow together and address issues they are facing within the family unit.

At its essence, the Cultural Parenting Program was specifically designed for families with adolescents between the ages of 10-18, who are currently experiencing the difficult trials and tribulations of youth that many Indigenous teens face while growing up.

Family Haven Director, Alison Bowen, shared, “We were often seeing that families that had guardianship of children, when they hit ages 13 to 16, there was an increase in issues for the families – between the youth and the adults being able to communicate with each other. And what I was hoping for is that we could create something that had those really good hands-on techniques for helping families maneuver around difficult behaviors, by using a cultural lens, reflecting on traditions and tribal knowledge of raising children in our community.”

She continued, “The goal is for families to feel better prepared to deal with issues and resolve them in a way that feels good for them, but also to think about how to prevent issues from coming up. The program focuses on youth who are having difficulties, whether they’re having problems at school or whether they’re arguing with their parents all the time – and just supporting the youth through those troubling teenage times.”

By combining two successful evidence-based programs, Positive Indian Parenting (PIP) and the Positive Parenting Program (Triple P), and implementing a healthy dose of Tulalip culture, Family Haven has curated a 16-session program that will help strengthen the family’s communication and their overall bond. The program is tailored to each family’s needs, and though the topics of conversation and issues addressed will vary from family to family, the lessons and exercises are all based around the Tulalip way of life.

“We’re aiming to have16 sessions over a six-month period, so we could build a deeper connection between me, the parents, and the youth,” explained Cultural Parenting Specialist, Andrea Coberly. “I’ll be having those one-on-ones with the parents and the youth separately and then together. And sometimes I’ll help by giving them prompts to talk about. One of my favorite sessions is the cedar paddle exercise where I go in and explain a canoe to the family. A lot of these families don’t necessarily have that direct tie-in to the culture, to the traditions. I have pictures of a canoe that is full of people. I explain what a skipper is and then I have them envision a scenario where they’re the skipper, the canoe is their life. Who are your pullers? Who is going to help you navigate the rough waters?”

Andrea also stated that throughout the program, the families will also learn about traditional plants and medicines, as well as attend a drum making class. Family Haven will also incorporate a number of stories into their curriculum that is sourced from the elders at the senior center, helping those important and educational Tulalip stories live on.

The idea behind the program is that by integrating ancestral knowledge into modern day parenting plans, the families will gain a new perspective on their ongoing problems and develop a better understanding of where some of those issues historically stem from. And through that understanding, they can find common ground and build a strong foundation for their relationships going forward.

Said Andrea, “The way that I explain it to them is, let’s start at the root of the problem, which is what our ancestors went through, what our great grandparents and grandparents went through. So, the boarding schools, and how that experience has trickled down to how we’re parenting our kids now, with all the negative discipline tactics. How can we work through to remove those? How can we create positive ones? How can we acknowledge what has happened to us, but also forgive our parents, knowing that they went through this as well? How can we work to stop that cycle? We’re focused on really building upon the positive. And those interaction skills will create better bonds between the family, so the youth feel supported and empowered.”

Enrollment is referral-based, and you can be referred by beda?chelh, the Family Wellness Court, Family Services’ substance use disorder program, or by filling out a self-referral form online. You could learn more about the Cultural Parenting Program by contacting Family Haven directly at (360) 913-7357 or (360) 716-3284. You can also visit their website, www.TulalipTribes-nsn.gov/Dept/FamilyHaven, for further details, as well as access their universal referral form.

Tulalip’s annual Health Fair inspires healthy living

By Micheal Rios, Tulalip News

Tulalip’s annual health fair once again brought the community together in the name of wellness, prevention, and togetherness. Starting on the morning of Friday, August 15, and continuing well into the late-summer afternoon, dozens of tribal programs, health professionals, and wellness advocates gathered under the Gathering Hall’s vaulted ceiling to provide resources, screenings, and hands-on activities designed to inspire healthy living.

What made this year’s event stand out was not just the variety of services and activities offered, but the overwhelming display of community participation. Children, parents, and elders alike came out in full force, filling the room with laughter, curiosity, and connection. The health fair has always been about medical check-ups and preventive health measures. But it’s also about caring for the mind, body, and spirit, while honoring the shared responsibility to keep one another healthy.

At its core, wellness is about prevention. Health Clinic staff were intentional about reminding participants that annual screenings can make all the difference when it comes to long-term wellness. Blood draws, finger pricks to check blood sugar levels, and blood pressure tests were available free of charge. For many, these screenings serve as an early warning system, helping to catch potential issues like diabetes, high blood pressure, or cholesterol before they become more serious.

“Our goal is to make it easy and comfortable for our people to stay on top of their health,” explained Health System deputy administrator Jennie Fryberg. “When you know your numbers, you can take small steps now that can prevent big problems later. That’s why these events are so important.

“There’s that saying, ‘Health is wealth’. That’s so true, especially here in Tulalip where our people are our greatest wealth,” she continued. “We want our children to grow up healthy, our adults to thrive, and our elders to live long, strong lives. With the outpouring of participation we’ve had we’re today, you could see and feel how the health fair brings us closer to that vision.”

Participants of all ages rolled up their sleeves for finger pricks and blood pressure cuffs, exemplifying Jennie’s sentiment that caring for oneself is an act of community responsibility. Parents encouraged their teens to get screened, while elders proudly modeled the importance of regular check-ups for younger generations.

“I just wanted to see what they had available here,” admitted Sonia Sohappy as she perused the many health fair stations. Her curiosity soon turned to a health-conscious cause as she got two vials of blood drawn for a full health screening. “I haven’t done blood work for a few years and couldn’t pass up the opportunity to have it done here. It was super easy and convenient.”

While health screenings provided essential data, the fair also made sure wellness was fun and engaging. Children lit up when they discovered the frisbee golf station, which encouraged movement and outdoor play. With discs flying across the lawn and friendly competition unfolding, it was easy to forget that the activity was really about promoting exercise and physical activity.

Nearby, families visited a booth offering healthy drink alternatives to sugary sodas and energy drinks. Participants sampled fruit-infused sparkling waters and refreshing Kombuchas while learning about the dangers of sugar overload and how small swaps can add up to big health benefits.

“I’m trying to encourage healthy beverage choices by offering samples of low-sugar or no-sugar drink options. We’re realizing that many people aren’t aware of all the options available now. There’s so many brands that offer so many flavors,” said recently recruited member of the Diabetes Prevention crew, Virginia Jones. “By presenting just a sample of the many choices out there, we’re hoping to get adults and children to make the switch from high-sugar loaded drinks, like soda and energy drinks, to a much healthier low-sugar or no-sugar option.”

Virginia was greeted by local community members of all ages who tried a swig or two of her healthy beverage options. Carlotta Davis was blown away by the full flavor profile of a strawberry vanilla Olipop. The prebiotic soda alternative is loaded with plant-based fiber and promotes good digestive health.

Sisters, 10-year-old Udora and 8-year-old Yuliana, eagerly sampled a selection of Waterloo sparkling water flavors. Big sister wasn’t a fan, but that’s ok, just meant more for little sister who finished off her drink and her sister’s. “It’s good. I like it!” chimed young Yuliana while holding out her cup, hoping for a refill.

For those seeking a calmer, more creative activity, flower bouquet and lavender bundle-making stations were a big hit. Elders and adults stood side by side, helping tie blossoms and fragrant herbs into arrangements that could be taken home as natural mood enhancers. This simple activity made wellness about more than numbers on a chart – it’s also about joy, creativity, and finding balance.

What stood out most about this year’s health fair was the intergenerational participation. Grandparents, parents, and children moved together from station to station, modeling what it means to prioritize health as a family and as a community.

That goes for work families, too. Coworkers Ratina Hatch, Rhylee Marchland and Santana Sheldon attended the event after the lunch hour rush. They went from table to table asking questions, gathering info, and taking the necessary steps to fill their complimentary yellow buckets with free merch and essential home aids. When they arrived at the blood pressure check station, the competitive spirit took hold. The question, “who has the lowest blood pressure?” had to be answered so bragging rights could be had.

Rhylee and Santana were confident they had the lowest blood pressure, but were quickly informed that their caffeine-only consumption earlier in the day was a serious detriment in this competition. Both had higher than normal blood pressures (that darn coffee!). Meanwhile, Ratina casually took a seat, had the cuff wrapped around her arm, and breathed with an impressive level of nonchalance. The medical tech informed Ratina that her blood pressure was in the optimum zone.

Bragging rights bestowed, Ratina shared, “It feels amazing to win our lowest blood pressure competition. I knew I was going to win. I’ve always had perfect blood pressure.”

Smiles, laughter, and meaningful conversations filled the Gathering Hall throughout the six-hour event. If there’s any singular takeaway, it’s the gentle reminder to community members that small, consistent actions – like an annual screening or choosing water over soda – are truly impactful forms of self-care.

Memorable movie night combines community fun and fundraising

By Wade Sheldon, Tulalip News

Snacks in hand, blankets spread out on the beds of trucks and in the backs of SUVs, hundreds of people gathered for a nostalgic and exciting drive-in movie experience on Saturday, August 9. Once a year, the Boom City parking lot behind the Tulalip Resort Casino transforms into a lively outdoor cinema, thanks to Kelsie and Dan Pablo, in partnership with Tulalip Tribes, and Great Rides Cure for Cystic Fibrosis, hosting their much-anticipated annual movie night.

The event was packed with food vendors offering delicious treats. And there were a variety of fantastic prizes to win—think Mariners tickets, luxurious hotel stays, colorful gift baskets filled with home and garden goodies, fun yard games, golf gear, and more.

“The turnout this year was probably one of our biggest yet,” said Kelsie, event host and mother to Keldan, whose battle with cystic fibrosis inspired the event. “I attribute that to the growing support, people spreading the word, and just the overall excitement surrounding it. We’ve seen a lot of people returning year after year, and new faces too, and that means so much to us.”

The community spirit was undeniable, with families, neighbors, and friends enjoying a fun-filled night under the stars. Through this event, Kelsie and Dan have not only raised funds but have also provided a platform for families living with cystic fibrosis to connect and support one another.

“I had a lot of conversations with people this year who were so thankful for this event,” Kelsie explained. “Especially for families dealing with cystic fibrosis. They mentioned how grateful they are to have a local event like this to raise awareness, because not many people outside of our community truly understand the challenges of CF. Every time we complete an event like this, it feels like we’re one step closer to finding a cure. Seeing how this has evolved from a small gathering to something much bigger, I know we’re on the right track.”

The event has also made a lasting impact on the community’s attitude toward cystic fibrosis. Many attendees, some of whom are personally affected by CF, expressed their gratitude for the opportunity to learn more about the disease and contribute to finding a cure. “It’s not just about raising money, it’s about starting conversations, educating others, and creating a lasting bond among people who share the same challenges. Keldan is my motivation, and I know we’re making a difference,” Kelsie added.

This year’s event also marked the beginning of more involvement from the community. “We’ve had several people reach out, wanting to help or get involved,” Kelsie said. “It’s wonderful to see this momentum building, and we’re already looking ahead to next year. We’re even considering adding a golf tournament or other events in the future, but for now, we’re grateful for the support we have.”

Tribal Member Ronnie Moses, who was excited about the movie choice, said, “I love coming to the drive-in. This is so cool; I have seen Minecraft before but never at the drive-in so I am very excited.” When asked how his night was going, he responded, “It’s fun, eating good food and being able to be with my family is great.”

Local attendee Carrie Kalma shared her thoughts on the event, saying, “This is my first time coming to the event. I heard about it through my friends. I think it is a cool idea, especially with all the food vendors. I also really liked being able to go for some prizes, but more importantly, donate to a good cause.”

Kimberly Ineze, first-time attendee, was also impressed by the event, saying, “First time attending this drive-in movie event. It’s been an excellent night, I enjoy seeing all the families together.” When asked to describe the evening in one word, she said, “Fun.”ive-in movie event. It’s been an excellent night, I enjoy seeing all the families together.” When asked to describe the evening in one word, she said, “Fun.”

Sharing our medicine at Tulalip Pride

By Kalvin Valdillez, Tulalip News

Tulalip has made strong efforts over the years to reclaim and celebrate their traditional way of life. Whether that is through the revitalization of their ancestral language, the practice of harvesting from and the caretaking of the natural world, the connection to the songs and dances of their people, or the passing of those teachings to the upcoming generations. Tulalip has, in many ways, become synonymous with words such as culture, tradition, and heritage.

Among the many things that were stripped away from tribal communities during the years of assimilation, such as the language, the songs, dances, stories and spirituality, was how our people view sexuality and gender identity within our nations. All across Indian Country, in recent years, there has been a reawakening. And through studying our shared history and ancestral knowledge, it has become undisputedly clear that countless tribes not only acknowledged but also celebrated and relied upon people who identified as a third gender within their communities, known as Two Spirits.

Embodying both masculine and feminine energies, Two Spirits played a significant role in ancestral times. The community looked to them for their wisdom and perspective, as they were believed to have the gift of double vision. Back in the day, within numerous tribes, Two Spirits were known to have a deeper connection to the spiritual world and thus served as healers and visionaries for their people.

In true Tulalip fashion, the tribal community has intentionally put their energy and time into reclaiming the narrative of how we perceive the Two Spirit people, ensuring that they feel welcome, loved, honored, understood, and seen, and that they always have a space to celebrate who they are. One example of this is the annual Pride gathering held every summer on the reservation.

This year marked the fourth annual Tulalip Pride celebration. Held at the Tulalip Gathering Hall, this event has grown exponentially since it debuted at the multi-sports complex in 2022. Over 250 people traveled from near and far for the 2025 event, to show their pride as members of the LGBTQ+ community, or for allies, to show their support to their loved ones who identify as lesbian, gay, bi-sexual, transgender, or queer.

“I had to come,” exclaimed Jackie Crane (Cowlitz) of Seattle. “I found the event on Instagram and always wanted to check out an Indigenous queer event. I haven’t been up here, haven’t seen this space before, so I was really excited to come and see it. I think being queer and Indigenous is not a common intersexuality to have and so seeing such a wide variety of folks who support us and want to be involved in the community and support each other and hype each other up, I think that’s really important. I was impressed by the generosity and so grateful for the wide variety of folks who came out and of showed their support.”

Also making the trip north from the city was Nigerian American, Shola Colonduro, who reflected on the parallels between the colonization his people of Nigeria and those of Native America. Shola stated, “I have come to every Tulalip Pride so far. I come here because I enjoy the vibes, I like all the dancing, but more importantly, I get to learn something every time I come here. This event means a lot to us, the Two Spirit and LGBTQ+ community.

“Our community has dealt with a lot of struggles and that’s due to an element of colonialism – they tried to strip that away and shame those who are Two Spirit and those who are gender non-conforming. Between the colonization of this country and the country now known as Nigeria, the people know we didn’t draw those lines. The settlers did. And in many ways, there are similar issues here and I see how that struggle connects where colonization has affected our cultures. I think it’s an important part of the decolonial effort to support those who are Two Spirit and LGBTQ+ amongst the Indigenous communities who are still here now. And I hope we can continue with this decolonizing dream together, whether it’s within ourselves or our communities.”

The vibrant colors of the Pride and transgender flags were on display throughout the entire Hall. People adorned in rainbow-colored shirts, hats, and leis, lost their selves in the moment and danced to the beats that DJ Auntie Monie dropped throughout the three-hour event.

Taking in some sunshine outside the Hall, near the snow cone line and bean bag toss games, Tribal member, Santana Paul, simply shared, “I came today to celebrate Pride! I am bi-sexual, and it brought me a lot of joy to see that everyone was so welcoming. I loved the face painting, the music, and just everybody’s laughter.”

Santana’s statement perfectly coincided with this year’s theme, which was Sharing Our Medicine, as it is often said that laughter is the best medicine. To expand further on that notion, the headliner of the event was none other than Native Comedienne, Toni Jo Hall, who took on her raunchy and hilarious persona, Auntie Beachress for the Pride celebration.

Nearly everyone in attendance had tears coming from their eyes from laughter as Auntie Beachress served up some top-tier Native humor, touching on subjects such as dealing with tribal council, snagging culture, and misadventures at the bingo hall. Following her set, Auntie Beachress held a meet and greet where she signed posters and posed for photos with the event goers.

Tribal member and new mother, Lauralee Tom, expressed, “My favorite was Auntie Beachress. I follow her on social media, and this is my second time meeting her at Tulalip. I came here to volunteer; I passed out the food and shirts. It was really exciting because there was so much happiness today. And most of all, I’m glad I got to bring my son here. His name is Hunter Bill, he is six months old today and a new Tulalip tribal member. This was a fun event and I’m glad we got to connect with more people.”

Keeping true to the Sharing Our Medicine theme, numerous tribal programs were invited to the Pride event to share resources with the community. Tables were stationed all along the outer rim of the Hall, where attendees could learn about the various services those programs offer, as well as take part in craft making.

While visiting representatives of programs such as Family Haven, Lushootseed, TOCLA, the Child Advocacy Center and the Legacy of Healing, as well as the Tulalip Youth Council, participants had the opportunity to create items including medicine bundles, prayer pouches, beaded regalia, and paintings. And each person at the event also walked away with a T-shirt designed by Tribal member, Marysa Joy Slyvester.

Said Warm Springs tribal member, Loni Long, “I came to support my brother-in-law, Angel, because I love him very much and I wanted him to know he has a community here at Tulalip on the rez; he lives here in the area. I enjoyed the dancing, and Auntie Beachress. And also, just all the cool stuff, the beautiful shirts, artwork, and all the community. There were a lot of people here and that’s amazing to see. I’m looking forward to next year and I’m going to bring more people.”

Loni’s brother-in-law, Wilson ‘Angel’ Whitefoot, added, “Today was good. I feel happy that we’re getting the recognition and are able to dance and feel that respect from our elders. My favorite part was probably the dancing, the food, and the games. I just want to thank everybody for being here and showing us support, because not too long ago, we didn’t have this kind of support and now we finally do.”

Tia Pinzon (Spokane), Tulalip Heritage High’s Trauma Informed Counselor, voiced, “I wanted to be in community with everyone and support the event. It’s important to show support because not everybody feels safe in who they are, and we need to show up for folks and show them they’re safe with us. I helped my friend Jacob at his Evergreen State College table – they have a really awesome Indigenous student program, so I wanted him to get connected with folks. We got our picture with Auntie Beachress and had fun stopping at all the different tables and saying hi to everyone.”

DJ Auntie Monie held a cake-walk style game, where the winner received prizes such as wool blankets, formline artwork, books, and carvings.

And many attendees were also pleasantly surprised to meet Tulalip Author, SummerLee Blankenship. SummerLee distributed and signed copies of her newly published book, The Greatest Teacher of All.

About her book, SummerLee remarked, “It’s a story about my life. It’s a very condensed version, but it’s something that I always knew would happen eventually. And it was just kind of like a little nudge, from the man upstairs, and he was like, you know, it’s time. And my dad also inspired me to do it now. I’m a recovering drug addict, and I went through the majority of 20 years of using hard drugs. I’ve been clean and sober over three years now. So it’s basically a story about what that kind of looked like. I went to treatment 18 times, had a multiple criminal history, and then going from that to my healing journey, through ceremony and prayer. And, you know, working with the medicines that the Earth offers to heal and working on that connection and finding myself, and remembering who I truly am and why I’m here. I wrote the book to not just share my story with hope that it reaches who it needs to reach, but with the hope that it will encourage others to also pursue their dreams.

“This was my first book signing since I published the book, so it was really beautiful and wholesome, and it was like full circle for me. To see so many people come out and support the event and the LGBTQ+ community, it goes to show that people are finding their voices and that they’re learning how to stand for something they believe in and who they are. There’s so much going on in the world that isn’t right, and it’s just really beautiful to see the camaraderie and the coming together as one, especially here on our land with our people.”

Following another successful Tulalip Pride, event organizer, Phoenix Two-Spirit, shared, “It was marvelous to see the support, not just of the Two Spirit people, but from the allies. That fills my heart with joy to see the allies come out and support the Two Spirit and LGBTQ+ community. This was the fourth annual Tulalip Pride and we’re going to continue going as long as we can because it’s such an awesome event. Thank you for the support of the Tulalip community to be able to do this, because we need it.”

Rapid crisis response for Tulalip

Crisis responders Michael Stewart and Shannon Duffy during a
community meet and greet at the Tulalip Admin Building.

By Wade Sheldon, Tulalip News

Launched in April 2024, the Mobile Rapid Response Crisis Team (MRRCT) was created to serve the Tulalip community with timely, culturally responsive behavioral health crisis intervention. The team operates out of Tulalip Family Services. It is available to respond to both mental health emergencies and crises that may not be life-threatening but are still deeply distressing to those experiencing them.

MRRCT includes certified peer counselors, interns working toward licensure, and leadership from Rochelle Long, a Designated Crisis Responder (DCR) and Licensed Mental Health Counselor. As a DCR, Rochelle has the authority to involuntarily commit individuals who are deemed a danger to themselves or others, ensuring immediate safety and stabilization when needed.

Certified peer counselor Michael Stewart explained the team’s mission and the types of situations they respond to. “For crisis, it’s up to the individual—car accidents, death, trouble with family. Whatever you say is a crisis for you is what we are here to support,” he said. “We’re kind of like a bridge to Family Services. If someone doesn’t want to talk right away, we let them know they can come down to start the healing process. We stay with them until they get connected to a counselor.”

The team responds to calls both in person and over the phone. In-person services are available Monday through Friday, 9:30 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., with 24/7 support available via phone. “One of the team members has the phone at all times,” Stewart said. “I was on the phone at 4:50 a.m. the other day with someone in a struggle. We talked through a lot and started helping that individual.”

In the event of a mental health emergency—defined as a life-threatening situation where someone is an immediate danger to themselves or others—the Tulalip Police Department (TPD) should be called at 360-716-9911. For non-life-threatening mental health crises, MRRCT can be reached at 360-502-3365. Community members can also call 988 and select Option 4 for the Native and Strong Lifeline.

According to MRRCT’s program materials, a crisis is when thoughts, feelings, or actions prevent a person from engaging in everyday activities. It can feel overwhelming and may seem like familiar coping skills are no longer working. Crises can happen to anyone, even those without a formal mental health diagnosis.

Examples of when to call MRRCT:

Suicidal thoughts, with or without a plan or access to weapons
Homicidal thoughts, with or without a plan or access to weapons
Active psychosis, including panic attacks or manic behavior
Voluntary psychiatric hospitalization assistance
Clinically significant mental health scores, such as moderate to severe PHQ-9/BDI
Behavioral disruptions at school that prompt police or crisis intervention
Older adults with dementia symptoms or wandering behaviors
Frequent 911 callers suspected of having behavioral health needs
Death or traumatic events, when the family or community requests support
Suspicious activity calls, where MRRCT can help calm distressed individuals while TPD investigates
Car accidents, when TPD requests help with de-escalating emotional responses

MRRCT also coordinates detox referrals and support for substance use-related crises in partnership with Tulalip’s Substance Use Disorder (SUD) department, which operates a 24/7 line at 425-754-2535.

The team’s flexibility and reach enable them to respond to a wide variety of situations, from de-escalating an emotional response at a car crash scene to assisting someone in completing a mental health packet and initiating therapy. Their role is not just crisis intervention but walking with individuals through their recovery journey until they are safely connected to the care they need.