Category: News

WA Governor Ferguson, U.S. Senator Cantwell and Tribal Leaders Oppose Repeal of Roadless Forest Protections at Public Meeting

More than 30 Tribes, elected officials, outdoor businesses, sportsmen, recreationists and conservation organizations and individuals spoke out against proposal by the federal government to eliminate national forest protections for forests, clean water and wildlife habitat

Tom Uniack, Executive Director, WA Wild

SEATTLE, WA – In a powerful display of diverse and broad support from Tribes, elected officials and stakeholders from Washington State, a community public meeting held on Friday evening (April 17) was the latest example of concern over efforts by the White House and U.S. Forest Service to eliminate the 2001 National Forest Roadless Area Conservation Rule. Dozens of similar events have been held in other states throughout the country and more are scheduled during the month of April.

Last fall, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins announced that the federal government plans to eliminate the Roadless Rule, which protects about one third of our national forests from new road construction and associated large-scale logging. The repeal would open nearly 45 million acres of pristine national forest land to development, including 2 million acres in Washington State.

The 2001 National Forest Roadless Area Conservation Rule was created to preserve some of the last untouched public lands in the U.S.—areas without roads, industrial logging, or energy development. These landscapes are America’s wild heart, beloved by outdoor recreationists while safeguarding much of our last remaining old growth forests, vital fish and wildlife habitat, and clean drinking water millions of Americans rely on.

The community meeting on Roadless Forests drew more than 100 people and featured a diverse group of speakers including U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell, Washington State Governor Bob Ferguson, Tulalip Tribes Board Member Ryan Miller and Snoqualmie Indian Tribe Chair Robert de los Angeles. More than 30 organizations and individuals provided public testimony at the meeting including a representative for Washington State Attorney General Nick Brown and former Chief of the U.S. Forest Service Vickie Christiansen. A formal transcript of the entire community meeting will be submitted to the Forest Service when the public comment period opens. The event was sponsored by Washington Wild, The Mountaineers, Washington Chapter of the Sierra Club, American Whitewater, The Wilderness Society, Cascade Forest Conservancy, Washington Trails Association and Conservation Northwest.

“The U.S. Forest Service is not planning to do any public meetings during the upcoming formal public comment period around their controversial efforts to repeal the 2001 Roadless Rule, so we had to create that opportunity ourselves,” said Tom Uniack, Executive Director for Washington Wild, a nonprofit conservation organization and statewide leader on the roadless issue. “It is hard to imagine stronger and more diverse group of Tribes and stakeholders who came together in opposition to the proposal to repeal the 2001 Roadless Rule.”

Here in Washington State, nearly 2 million acres of these roadless forests are at stake. The proposed repeal threatens access to 830 national forest trails totaling more than 4,000 miles; beloved trails like Lena Lake on the Olympic Peninsula, Kettle Crest in eastern Washington, and Maple Pass Loop in the North Cascades and Juniper Ridge in southwest Washington could face irreversible damage if protections are lifted.

“Washington has been a leader in standing up for the Roadless Rule for decades,” Washington State Governor Bob Ferguson said. “The rule protects more than 2 million acres of Washington forest lands, which helps us honor our obligations to Washington’s tribal nations. We will not allow the Trump Administration to repeal this rule and put our healthy forests, clean water, salmon and wildlife at risk.”

The federal government is expected to take the next step in eliminating the Roadless Rule within the next several weeks by releasing a Draft Environmental Impact Statement and opening the process for public comments. It is likely that the Trump administration will provide the public with as little as 15 – 30 days to comment on this proposed change. The administration is unlikely to host any public meetings on this important issue.

For comparison, the Roadless Rule was enacted in 2001 following a two-year process and extensive public participation process that was, at the time, the largest federal rulemaking in the history of the federal government. The process included more than 600 public hearings nationwide and prompted 1.6 million public comments, 95% of which were in favor of protecting roadless areas.

“The Tulalip Tribes urge federal decision-makers to weigh the full consequences of repealing the Roadless Rule,” said Ryan Miller, Treasurer and Board Member of the Tulalip Tribes. “The loss of these areas would be a debt paid not just by Tribes, but by every community relying on clean water and resilient forests. Our treaty-reserved rights are inseparable from these lands; protecting them is a matter of cultural survival, ecological health, and our shared responsibility to future generations.”

The existing roadless rule is a balanced policy that includes common sense exceptions for temporary or other actions relating to road building for wildfire response, public health and safety, cleaning up toxic waste, existing mineral leases, federal highway projects, ecosystem recreation and habitat protection. As a result, the Rule has garnered overwhelming and broad support over the past 25 years including nearly 900 Washington Stakeholders have publicly shown their support.

“Three things get BHA members up at dawn: hunting, fishing, and defending public lands,” said Dan Wilson, Washington Chapter Co-Chair for Back Country Hunters and Anglers. “While public lands are core to our organizational mission and identity as outdoorsmen and women, we also know those lands unite so many of us. To fight the proposed repeal of the Roadless Rule, we were proud to stand shoulder to shoulder with everyone else who treasures our wild spaces and wildlife by raising our unique voices- loudly and often”

Poppin’ with purpose

By Micheal Rios, Tulalip News

Along an active stretch of Marine Drive, where traffic flows steady and opportunity meets ambition, one Tulalip family’s vision continues to rise. One kernel at a time.

What originally began in 2020 as a small kettle corn stand ingrained with love, advocacy, and awareness has since evolved into something bigger. Today, Jared’s Corner stands as a shining example of Tulalip entrepreneurship and belief in community-driven dreams.

“I know it may sound silly, but I literally dreamed of running a popcorn stand,” admitted former Board of Director Jared Parks. “When I got unelected from the Board, I figured it was time to see if I could turn that dream into a reality. So, I cleared out my 401K and invested it into creating what became Jared’s Corner.”

Founded by Jared and his wife, Kristie Parks, Jared’s Corner was inspired by their son, Jared Jr., who is on the autism spectrum. From the beginning, the mission was clear, to create a platform to raise awareness and celebrate the uniqueness of every individual, while embracing the entrepreneurial spirit to create something all their own.

Fueled by the business slogan ‘Not one kernel is the same!’, the modest kettle corn stand has grown into a vibrant and expanding operation that represents both purpose and possibility within the Tulalip community. 

Painted in a bold shade of red and standing firmly built from a repurposed shipping container, Jared’s Corner stands out immediately to anyone passing by. Its most stand-out feature is a large portrait image on the side of the building, a photograph of Jared Jr. shaped like a corner puzzle piece. Often used to symbolize autism awareness, this particular puzzle piece serves as a striking reminder of the heart behind the Parks family business.

“Putting our son’s face on the business was a decision my wife and I made together. Seeing him on there is a daily reminder of what the purpose is. Why I get up every day and get to poppin’,” reflected Jared while prepping a fresh batch of honey BBQ flavored kettle.

Since its creation, Jared’s Corner has transformed in ways few could have predicted. What once started with a handful of kettle corn flavors has now grown to an impressive offering of 57 varieties. Each flavor reflects creativity and care, with several named by loyal customers who have become part of the journey. That sense of connection has helped turn first time visitors into regular supporters.

“Jared has done so much work putting this whole operation together. It’s an outstanding job, really,” shared Tulalip elder and Jared’s Corner regular, Dean Ledford, during a recent stop to pick up his favorite flavor of kettle corn, caramel. “It’s a business created from real hard work and a self-belief that is admirable, to say the least. 

“He’s created something to be proud of, but more than that he’s made the community proud. I know I’m proud of him,” added the 89-year-old, Air Force veteran. “Having his business right here on the Rez, where so many tribal people drive by every day, I hope he inspires younger people to follow their dreams and create their own businesses, too.”

 Today, the menu has expanded beyond just kettle corn. Customers now stop by for flavored Red Bull drinks, nachos, pretzel bites, and classic buttered popcorn. The expanded offerings at a reasonable price make Jared’s Corner a go to destination for snacks and refreshments.

Behind the business’s growth is a story defined by risk and belief. Jared made the bold decision to cash out his 401k and invest everything into building and expanding his dream. Ever since, it’s been a series of decisions requiring both courage and faith in what the future could hold.

“Every Tulalip tribal member, whether they are older than me or younger than me, has the same ancestors,” said Jared. “Our ancestors are the ones who sacrificed so much, who laid down and let people walk on them in order for the future generations, that’s us, here and now, to not be walked on. 

“We are no longer oppressed like our ancestors were,” he continued. “We have the knowledge and means to create our own businesses and to be our own bosses. And, if for whatever reason, you think you don’t have the knowledge and are willing to learn, stop on by and I’ll share it with you. We’re meant to thrive, not to be complacent. I want to see every tribal member thrive.”

Armed with a growth mindset and desire to connect has led Jared to creating something far greater than a successful small business. Jared’s Corner has become a symbol of what is possible when vision meets determination. Within Tulalip, it serves as a real-life example of entrepreneurship in action. Hopefully, it sparks new ideas or plants the seed that starting something of your own is within reach for Tulalip’s ever-growing membership.

While the business continues to grow, its foundation remains unchanged. Autism awareness is still central to everything they do. Each customer interaction, each order served, and each visit to the bright red storefront carries that message forward. 

And along Marine Drive, at Jared’s Corner, that message continues to grow one kernel at a time.

Leadership renewed

By Micheal Rios, Tulalip News

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Easter Run delivers sunshine, smiles, and multigenerational joy

By Micheal Rios, Tulalip News

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Young minds, big ideas: KidWind Challenge inspires local youth

By Micheal Rios, Tulalip News

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

A new Chair for a new era

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

By Wade Sheldon, Tulalip News 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

By Micheal Rios

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

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

That philosophy guided his entire approach to law enforcement.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Daubers up! Youth Services creates new family tradition

By Micheal Rios, Tulalip News

On the final Friday of the month, laughter and the rhythmic call of bingo numbers echoed through a Don Hatch gymnasium filled with families. Parents, aunties, grandparents, and kids of all ages leaned over colorful cards, eyes wide with anticipation. It was the official launch of Youth Services’ new monthly Family Bingo Night. It’s a simple idea with a pure purpose. Youth Services staff want to strengthen families and nurture a healthier community, one Bingo game at a time.

The inaugural event marked the beginning of what the department hopes will become a cherished tradition. Scheduled for the last Friday of every month, Family Bingo Night is intentionally designed as more than just entertainment. It’s a welcoming space where families can gather, share a meal, and reconnect in a positive environment that centers togetherness and community spirit.

Before the first bingo number was ever called, the evening began with a hearty dinner hosted by the Youth Services team. The smell of warm food drew families together around tables, conversations flowing as easily as the laughter. For Youth Services staff, the shared meal is just as important as the games themselves.

“We want to make sure families come in with full bellies and full hearts,” said department manager Sabrina Moses. “Dinner gives everyone a chance to slow down, sit together, and enjoy each other’s company before the excitement starts. It’s about creating space for connection.”

That connection was evident throughout the shared space. Kids bounced in their seats while elders offered playful advice on bingo strategy. Parents helped little ones track their numbers, turning each near-win into a moment of collective suspense. When the first triumphant “Bingo!” rang out, the entire room erupted in cheers, celebrating the young winner.

Prizes ranged from toys and school supplies to gift cards, ensuring every round held excitement for participants of all ages. The grand prizes of an XBOX gaming system and a tablet added an extra layer of buzz, with whispers and hopeful predictions circulating between games. Yet even with the impressive prize table on display, the true reward of the evening was the sense of unity filling the space.

Youth Services developed the program with a clear mission: to support stronger families as the foundation of a healthier Tulalip community. By offering consistent, positive gatherings, the department hopes to give families reliable opportunities to spend quality time together in a safe and uplifting environment.

“I haven’t been inside this building for many years. To be here now with my kids and teaching them how to play some Bingo, it means a lot,” shared Luke Madrigal while holding his baby Stormi. “My daughter Delilah actually won one of the first games. To see how she just lit up with excitement and had this big ol’ smile as she picked her prize, that meant everything to me.”

As the night stretched on, the energy in the room never faded. Even after multiple rounds, families remained engaged, joking with one another and celebrating each win as a collective victory. Youth Services staff moved through the crowd with smiles, greeting participants by name and making sure everyone felt included.

That inclusion went as far as Bingo caller Kayla Joseph making use of the rambunctious tikes whose energy never seems to run out. On more than one occasion, Kayla had the tiniest Tulalip bingo players help her call out the letter and number. 

By the time the final game concluded, the room was filled with satisfied grins, tired kids clutching prizes, and parents already talking about next month’s return. 

“We are thrilled with the turnout,” concluded Sabrina. “Seeing how many families showed up and just how many smiling faces there were, it just makes me so happy because it shows that sometimes it really is the simplest of things that can brings us all together and lead to new traditions being made.”

With the last Friday of every month now circled on many calendars, Tulalip families have a new reason to gather together, laugh together, and celebrate the simple magic of calling out numbers in a crowded room where everyone belongs.

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.”