Tulalip Court marked an important moment of transition and continuity on Wednesday morning, February 4, as two judges were formally sworn in during a ceremony held in the Tribal Council boardroom. Natasha K. Anderson (Yankton Sioux) was sworn in as Tulalip Court’s new Chief Judge, while Christine Frausto was appointed the role of Deputy Chief Judge.
Deputy Chief Judge Christine Frausto, Chairwoman Teri Gobin and Chief Judge Natasha K. Anderson.
The oaths of office were administered by Tulalip Vice Chairman Hazel Shopbell, with tribal leaders and staff in attendance. The swearing-in reflects Tulalip’s ongoing commitment to upholding justice, strengthening tribal sovereignty, and ensuring fair and effective judicial leadership for the community.
Following her swearing-in, Chief Judge Anderson said, “The Tulalip Tribes has been on my radar since I started my legal career in 2007. They are an excellent example in Indian Country, and I’m honored to serve their people.”
The Heritage Hawks and Lady Hawks were celebrated in a Senior Night ceremony held Friday, January 30, at Francy J. Sheldon gymnasium. The heartfelt ceremony honored graduating seniors from both the boys and girls basketball programs prior to tipoff.
Before the Hawks and Lady Hawks took the court, the gym filled with applause as seniors were individually recognized for their perseverance and commitment to Tulalip Heritage High School athletics. Surrounded by family members, teammates, coaches, and community supporters, each senior was acknowledged for the time and effort invested throughout their high school basketball careers.
Senior Night is a long-standing tradition at Heritage, offering a moment to pause and reflect on the journeys of student-athletes who have represented the reservation’s high school with pride. For the celebrated seniors, the ceremony marked the culmination of years spent balancing academics, practices, games, and the responsibilities that come with being team leaders.
Raylee Fryberg-Lewis
Aylani with her big sister, Raylee Fryberg-Lewis.
“Heritage is the only place I could imagine playing volleyball and basketball,” said senior Raylee Fryberg-Lewis. “After so many seasons and games played, it just feels really good to be celebrating with my community. Tulalip is where I was born, it’s where I’m from, and it’s where I chose to attend high school. When I look back over the past few years, I think where I’ve grown the most is my confidence. Being able to play with my friends and family, they were always so supportive and believed in me when I was doubting my abilities. Their confidence in me made me want to be the best volleyball player and basketball player I could be, not just for myself, but for them as well. That’s what family and being a community is really all about.”
Raylee’s mom, Roselle, added, “As a Heritage alumni and her mom, Raylee’s decision to attend Heritage and play sports meant everything to me. To see her grow so much within her community, step outside her comfort zone with basketball, and witness all the community support she’s received just means the world to us. We love Rez kids!”
Lilly Jefferson
“I think your senior year of high school is one of the most important years of a person’s life because it reflects all the experiences, decisions, and memories of your childhood,” said senior Lilly Jefferson. “It’s not just the last year of high school, but the last time to seize opportunities that aren’t available to adults. With that in mind, I’d tell future high schoolers that this time in your life isn’t that bad, really, it’s the best. We don’t have to worry about being an adult and all the responsibilities, like paying bills. So do all the things and live it up with all the clubs, sports, and travel opportunities that you can.”
Lilly’s mom, Shawnee, added, “Lilly isn’t my first kid to choose Heritage and she won’t be my last. Her high school years have literally been like watching a dream play out. I’ve witnessed her thrive and expand her goals so much that she’s reaching for the sky now. She’s learned to create and enforce boundaries and even explore the world through programs offered at Heritage. She could’ve graduated last year, but didn’t because she wanted to have a senior year with friends. I couldn’t be more thankful for that decision because watching her and her younger sister, Madison, play together as Lady Hawks meant the world to me.”
Molly Jones-Charles
“Before Heritage, I never thought I’d actually play sports. Now, here I am, a varsity basketball player,” said senior Molly Jones-Charles. “Overall, it’s been a nice experience. My coaches and teammates have really worked with me to get me comfortable on the court, and it’s something I’m just really grateful for. Also, playing volleyball and basketball showed me just how supportive my family is. They came to so many games and were always cheering for me and my team to do good. Yeah, they can be loud, but that’s so I can hear them and know they are here supporting me, always.”
Molly’s guardian, Mitch, added, “I never once asked Molly to be the best shooter or score the most points. What I’ve always asked from her is maximum effort, to always give her best when she’s on the court. She never saw herself playing sports, but we’ve seen how much sports have helped her grow as a person. She’s flourishing now because she’s made lifelong friends here at Heritage by going outside her comfort zone and playing volleyball and basketball. I couldn’t be happier for her.”
Davien Parks
“Ever since my first day here, my experience has been awesome,” said senior Davien Parks. “The community, the fans, the school staff, everyone has made me feel welcomed. Seeing the support and following the basketball team is something truly special. So many times we’ve played away games and had more people from Tulalip in the bleachers than the home team fans. That gave me added motivation, game in and game out, to play my hardest every game. That’s pushed me to become the best version of myself and I can’t thank the community enough for that.”
Davien’s dad, Tyler, added, “I’m just overjoyed right now. It’s a heartwarming feeling to see the whole community come out and support my son. It’s pushed his game to another level, his confidence to another level. I’m grateful for all the community support, especially the elders who came out and watched and let Davien know how proud they are of him.”
Davis Bachand
“I transferred to Heritage from a bigger school for a reason, and it’s been everything I hoped it would be and more. I’ve had an amazing time at Heritage. I’ve been hoopin’ with these guys my whole life and getting to win on this level with them, to experience State with them, are memories I’ll never forget. And the community support here is like no other. Everyone knows me and my name, from adults to little kids in the community. Tulalip has made me feel like family.”
Davis’s dad, Aaron, added, “The Tribe has made our family feel so welcomed. We’re honored to be accepted as part of the family. As a dad, I think one of the coolest things to see is the little kids who run up to Davis when we’re out and about and tell him they watched his last game or tell him he had a good game. Those little things like that really do make a big difference.”
Tokala Black Tomahawk
“Knowing I was a Heritage Hawk for all four years of high school is something I’ll cherish forever. I loved playing in front of all my family. Everyone in the gym, I know who they are and they know me. That kind of support is really rare and something I didn’t take for granted. My favorite basketball memories are from last year’s State experience. I’m hoping we can run it back this year and win the whole thing. Then that will be my favorite memory.”
Tokala’s mom, Winona, added, “Out of Bubba and mine’s ten kids, Tokala is number eight to attend and play for Heritage. It’s amazing to see and be part of how the growing support system our Heritage students receive from the Tulalip community. Home or away, football or volleyball or basketball, Heritage fans do their part to make our athletes feel appreciated. The Heritage teachers and coaches have done a really good job of pushing Tokala to do his best and be his best, in and out of the classroom. I couldn’t be more thankful for that.”
Logan Paul
Logan’s big sister, Hannah, said, “It was a huge decision to take Logan out of private school and have him attend Heritage. Ultimately, we made the decision based on it being more important to have him in his own community, where he could build those community attachments with his peers and classmates. He adapted really well, especially once he got involved with sports (football and basketball). He’s continued to excel academically by getting 4.0’s, which we are so proud of him for. He’s also developed a real sense of pride for what it means to be Tulalip and what it means to be part of a community. Tulalip is Logan’s home now, and he’s made so many friends and learned who is family truly is.”
Families stood courtside as seniors were presented with flowers and keepsakes, capturing photos and sharing embraces that reflected years of early practices, late nights, and countless memories made inside the gym. As the final home games approach and postseason play looms, Tulalip Heritage High School proudly recognizes its senior Hawks and Lady Hawks for their contributions to the program. Their impact will be felt long after the final buzzer sounds.
BOD members Theresa Sheldon and Deborah Parker blanket Rae Anne Gobin during a surprise acknowledgement honoring her 50 years of service on Wednesday, January 21.
By Wade Sheldon
For Rae Anne Gobin, a 50-year career with the Tulalip Tribes didn’t start with a grand plan but with encouragement from her parents and a willingness to explore unfamiliar territory. When she first applied for her job, she couldn’t have known that a single opportunity would develop into a lifetime of service to her people. Like many young employees, she faced uncertainty in those early days, unsure of what to expect and afraid of falling short, but she was determined to do her
“My parents encouraged me to work for the Tribe, and when I started my first job, I wasn’t sure what to expect,” Rae Anne said. “I worried about making mistakes, disappointing others, and not knowing enough, but I was surrounded by a community that genuinely cared about my success.” That sense of support, she explained, quickly became the foundation of her career. Her first position, funded through grant money, opened the door to future opportunities, and she began learning lessons that would guide her for decades to come. “That first job taught me so much,” she said. “The importance of showing up on time, being accountable for my work, communicating with others, solving problems, asking for help, and handling challenges.”
As her career advanced, Rae Anne did not stay in one role; she gradually grew alongside the Tribe as it expanded and changed. She started as a secretary and, over time, took on various positions, each deepening her understanding of tribal government and the responsibility of serving her community. Looking back now, she sees her personal growth as linked to Tulalip’s growth.
“When I look back from my first days on the job until today, there has been so much progress,” she said. In those early years, tribal government was small and closely connected. “When I first started, we had an Executive Director, a Services Manager, a Business Manager, and only a small number of employees,” she recalled. Protecting and strengthening sovereignty was central to the work, and the daily operations of that small staff created the framework for everything that exists today.
With limited personnel, employees were often required to handle multiple responsibilities, and Rae Anne found herself taking on many different roles as the Tribe worked to build its systems. “In the early days, our workforce handled multiple responsibilities,” she said. “I performed duties as the recording secretary, court clerk, cashier, and even carried out early human resources functions.” As the Tribe expanded, new programs were developed, and positions that once had been shared among many people became full-time roles of their own. “With that growth and success came the ability to fund full-time positions such as a court clerk and develop the court system,” she said, describing those years as important milestones in Tulalip’s development.
Although there were moments when she considered leaving, especially during times of change or when family responsibilities weighed heavily, Rae Anne says her sense of belonging always brought her back to Tulalip. She remembers leaders who encouraged tribal members to explore opportunities both within and beyond the reservation, including Don Hatch (Penoke), who often walked through the offices, urging employees to consider jobs with agencies like PUD or the phone company.
“I often thought about leaving, too,” she said. “But the strong sense of connection and knowing that my own family had served as board members kept me rooted here. This place, this work, and our people became part of who I am. My sense of place has always been Tulalip, and my commitment has always been to want more for Tulalip.”
As the Tribe continued to expand, Rae Anne’s responsibilities grew along with it, and one area of her work eventually became a defining chapter of her career. What began as a simple task within Human Resources gradually developed into a major responsibility that would shape tribal policy and workplace practices for years to come.
“Over the years, one of my biggest responsibilities became overseeing the Tribe’s drug testing program,” she said. What started as a small assignment eventually grew into a full department of its own, reflecting both the growth of the Tribe and the increasing complexity of its operations. In many ways, the program symbolized how informal systems from the early years were transformed into structured departments as Tulalip matured into a large governmental and corporate organization.
Just as the Tribe evolved, so did the tools of the workplace, and few changes were as dramatic as the shift from typewriters to computers. For Rae Anne, that transition remains one of the most vivid markers of how much time has passed.
“As for the biggest challenges I’ve overcome during my career, the transition from typewriters to computers stands out the most,” she said. “When I first started, everything was done on a typewriter. We used carbon paper to make copies of letters we mailed out, and we relied on a mimeograph machine to create our newsletters.” Those early newsletters, she recalled, were a small but meaningful part of office life. “One of the best parts of those newsletters was the ‘Teepee Talk,’” she said. “Everyone looked forward to that.”
Throughout her career, Rae Anne says it was the people around her who most shaped how she worked and the values she carried. When asked about mentors and influences, she names leaders whose teachings extended far beyond job duties and titles.
“Francis Sheldon, Wayne Williams, Clarence Hatch, Delores Gobin, Gwen Hatch, Lavinia Carpenter, and Paula Cortez were especially memorable,” she said. “Because of the strong work ethic they demonstrated and the teachings they shared so effortlessly.” From them, she learned not only how to do her job but also how to carry herself with responsibility, humility, and respect for the community she served.
Perhaps the most striking change she witnessed over five decades was the sheer scale of Tulalip’s growth. What began as a small workforce handling whatever tasks were necessary has become an organization employing more than 3,000 people, operating programs, enterprises, and services that reach far beyond what anyone in those early offices could have imagined.
“Watching the Tribe grow from a small workforce to an organization with more than three thousand employees is something I never could have imagined,” she said. “The scale of what Tulalip has built far exceeds anything I dreamed of when we were just a handful of people doing whatever work needed to be done.”
Despite the many changes in technology, leadership, and structure, the lessons Rae Anne learned early in her career have remained constant. Dependability, she says, became the foundation for everything else she achieved.
“Showing up, being dependable, present, and ready to work,” she said. “That commitment created the foundation for everything else. I also learned the importance of treating people with respect and understanding that everyone plays a role in moving the Tribe forward.”
Serving her own community for half a century, Rae Anne views it not as a job, but as a lifelong responsibility and an honor.
“It has been an honor to contribute, even in a small way, to the growth of our Tribe and strengthening our sovereignty,” she said.
To young tribal members just beginning their careers, her advice reflects the same values that guided her through five decades of service.
“Stay open to learning and don’t be afraid to start small,” she said. “Every job, no matter how simple it may seem, teaches you something valuable. Show up, be dependable, and ask questions. Focus on what you contribute to the Tribe and our people.”
When asked how she hopes to be remembered, Rae Anne does not speak of titles or accomplishments, but of commitment. “I would hope people remember me as someone who cared for the Tribe and the commitment I gave.”
Even after 50 years, her motivation remains rooted in the same purpose that brought her through the doors as a young employee.
“Knowing that the work I do still makes a difference,” she said. “My passion comes from seeing the Tribe grow through every improvement, every program, and the steps forward remind me why this work matters. Tulalip is my home, my community, my sense of place, my identity.”
Lois Henry reached the milestone of earning her driver’s license after years of driving without one.
By Wade Sheldon, Tulalip News
For many Tulalip Tribal members, obtaining a driver’s license represents far more than the ability to drive. It is a symbol of independence, stability, and progress in recovery. Through Tulalip’s Wellness Court, participants facing license suspensions, unpaid fines, missing documentation, or financial barriers are being supported step-by-step toward restoring their driving privileges. Over the past year, Wellness Court helped approximately 13 participants earn their licenses, a significant increase from the three or four participants typically assisted in previous years.
According to Wellness Court Treatment Coordinator Erica Moore, many participants enter the program unsure of why they are even ineligible to drive. And the legal process alone can feel overwhelming. Wellness Court helps participants navigate that confusion by walking alongside them through both the legal and personal sides of the process.
“In order to get their license, we have our participants first sign up for a Driver’s Express account and talk to our TOCLA attorneys for help getting information for any court fees or fines that may be holding their license,” Moore said. She explained that participants then set up payment plans or received further legal services through TOCLA to help remove fines from collections.
Another major barrier is access to legal documentation. “Wellness Court also requires that you start fresh with all of your legal documents,” Moore said. Participants work toward obtaining a Washington State ID, Tribal ID, birth certificate, and Social Security card — foundational steps necessary before proceeding with licensing.
Test anxiety is another challenge many participants face. “Many of our participants have never had their license,” Moore said. “Our main concern is getting our participants educated on the driving rules and then getting them confident enough to take the test.” She acknowledged that failing the test can discourage people. “Some people will take the test once and feel even worse because they don’t pass. This is where a lot of people give up.”
To address this, Wellness Court partners with Marysville Driving 911, which provides a one-hour review followed by the written test. TERO helps cover the cost of the course for Tribal members over 18. “That confidence piece takes time and a lot of resilience,” Moore said, noting that the partnership has helped increase success rates.
Ethel Jones
For Wellness Court participant Ethel Jones, earning her driver’s license marked a powerful turning point. “I wouldn’t be the positive, outspoken woman I am today without Wellness Court,” she said. “Without this program, I wouldn’t be accomplishing the things I am today.” After completing treatment and beginning Wellness Court, Ethel said she started remembering who she was before addiction. “I was able to find my old self again.”
With renewed motivation, Wellness Court helped Ethel earn her driver’s license for the first time last year, after going 45 years without one. “It’s a big weight lifted off my shoulders,” she said. “It feels good not to have to worry.” Being able to drive legally changed her daily life. “I don’t need a chauffeur anymore; now I can drive my kids.”
Ethel said the hardest part of the process was overcoming her own self-doubt. “My inner voice kept saying you don’t need it, you already have a driver, you don’t know anything about driving or the test,” she said. “But I knew I could do it with the support from Wellness Court.” She credited her case manager and the court for their encouragement and accountability.
Another participant, Lois Henry, also reached the milestone of earning her driver’s license after years of driving without one. “I’ve been using for 20 years,” she said. “And after getting sober, one of my main goals was to get my driver’s license.” While the process felt scary at first, Lois said things became much easier once she completed the test. “Everything was so much easier because I was actually able to drive myself,” she said. “I didn’t have to depend on people for rides.” Her biggest challenge was parallel parking, but the outcome made it worthwhile. “I love the freedom.”
Brandie Salinas-Howlett
Brandie Salinas-Howlett earned her license for the first time as well, even though it took multiple attempts. “I had to take it more than five times,” she said. “I wasn’t watching my blind spots or looking over my shoulders, but I finally figured it out.” When she finally held her license, she described it as “an accomplishment.” Being able to drive legally brought immediate relief. “I wouldn’t have to worry about getting pulled over anymore,” she said. Brandie credited her family’s motivation and her case manager’s encouragement for helping her push through.
Justina Velazquez also completed the program and was on her way to pick up her license shortly after her interview. Like others, it was her first time earning a license. “It’s a blessing,” she said. Delays in obtaining corrective lenses slowed her progress, but with continued support from her case manager and assistance with fines and fees, she completed the process. “It’s possible,” she said. “If someone feels scared or doesn’t think they can do it, I’d encourage them to reach out for help.”
Justina Velazquez.
Moore said accountability plays a central role in Wellness Court. “Wellness Court is all about accountability and honesty,” she said. Participants agree to follow all applicable laws, including not driving until they are legally permitted to do so. “Getting your license after not having one is the best feeling of freedom in the world and a huge confidence boost.”
According to Moore, once participants regain their licenses, there is often a noticeable shift. “It’s like a checkpoint in their sobriety,” she said. “People realize they can attain their goals, and they start taking strides toward all their other goals because they’re not worried about the stress of driving illegally.”
Through Wellness Court and support from the Tulalip Tribes, participants who once believed a license was out of reach are proving otherwise. Whether barriers stem from suspension, unpaid fines, lack of funding, or missing documentation, the program demonstrates that with patience, structure, and support, Tribal members can regain their driver’s licenses — and move forward with confidence.
As the New Year begins, many people find themselves seeking change, growth, and a renewed sense of direction. At Tulalip, the Season of Healing series has become a space where that kind of reflection is welcomed, encouraged, and grounded in cultural strength. On January 6, community members gathered for the fourth installment of the series, entering 2026 with the intention of honoring the teachings and relationships that guide their way forward. This month’s gathering centered on uplifting the men who shape Tulalip families and futures, recognizing the important roles held by grandfathers, fathers, and uncles.
The day opened with a lunchtime talk at the Tulalip Administration Building led by Coast Salish artist Walter Moses, whose work has become a recognizable part of the Puget Sound landscape. Walter shared stories about his artistic journey, the cultural teachings that guide his work, and the responsibility borne by those watched by younger generations. His carvings and artwork appear throughout the region, including his water-themed installation at the University Village Starbucks in Seattle, where salmon, otter, canoe, and killer whale imagery reflect the Coast Salish connections to water, identity, and community.
Later that evening, community members made their way to the Tulalip Gathering Hall for the workshop titled “Honoring Fatherhood: Uplifting Our Grandfathers, Fathers, and Uncles — Walk with Honor, Speak with Care, Your Footsteps Guide the Generations.” Through shared stories, teachings, and reflection, the workshop highlighted the strength and stability men bring to their families and the wider community.
Walter reinforced these teachings by reminding those in attendance of the impact men have on youth simply through everyday actions. “Men give guidance, protection, presence, and example. All of these are beyond biology. Men have always been our first teachers. Whether we are trying to teach or not, the children are always watching,” he said. “Children are constantly asking themselves questions like, ‘Do I belong here? Do I matter? Am I safe?’ And they learn the answers not through instruction but through experience. Belonging is something we show them again and again through consistency and care.”
This message echoed throughout the evening: even when men are not trying to be role models, they inherently are. Youth absorb the way men speak, act, and respond to challenges. Being present, attentive, and consistent was emphasized as one of the greatest gifts a man can offer a child. This aligns with research from the Institute for Research on Poverty at the University of Wisconsin–Madison, which found that children with engaged fathers or male role models develop stronger emotional security, improved social skills, better academic performance, and fewer behavioral challenges.
However, the night also carried a heavier weight as the community continues to reel from the recent brutal attack on a Tulalip elder. Board of Director Theresa Sheldon addressed the hurt and urgency surrounding the incident, saying, “Violence is never the answer. It’s the violence in our community that has to be talked about and has to be dealt with. We have to demand better for ourselves and our families, and how we hold parents accountable and how we hold our youth accountable for violence.”
Following Theresa’s message, Tulalip Tribal Police Chief Shawn Ledford spoke powerfully about public safety, community trust, and the responsibility his department carries. He shared not only professional insight but personal emotion, explaining how deeply violence affects those who serve.
He began by saying, “I want to speak about what’s on my mind and what’s in my heart. When you’re in law enforcement, and you work in a community like Tulalip, one of the best things is we know the people, we know our community. But it’s also hard when we see senseless acts of violence. And it is our job to keep this community safe. It’s my job to keep this community safe. And I want to let you know that what we do behind the scenes is we talk about the priorities of this Tulalip community, that people want to feel safe in their homes. We want our kids to be safe in the schools. We want people to be safe at work. And we’re also compassionate. We serve with compassion. We serve with courage. And we want to hold people accountable to reasonable standards. But there are some times that we’re going to have zero tolerance. Zero tolerance for gang violence, gang affiliation, anything associated with that on the reservation, or any acts of violence that are towards an elder.”
His words added a firm, necessary reminder: healing must be paired with action, safety, and a commitment from everyone in the community to reject violence in all forms.
Following Chief Ledford, Ty Juvenile spoke on the responsibility men carry when they choose to guide others. “It’s important to make a choice to be a father figure, because it’s a choice. Being a father figure doesn’t necessarily mean your own kids. It could be any kid — the kids down the street or kids at another school. Being a father is a choice.”
Deyamonta Diaz offered gratitude for the positive role models who shaped him into the man he is today. “I have had plenty of men be good father figures in my family and not in my family,” Diaz said, later thanking Josh Fryberg for teaching through presence and example. “I witnessed Josh be a good man and father figure to his children and family.”
The final witness, Bradley Fryberg, reflected on his challenging youth and the unexpected mentor who helped guide him back onto a healthy path. “We can prevent things like that incident the other night by trying to point the young men in the right direction,” he said. “It could be as simple as lending an ear or buying a Gatorade for someone who needs it. Sometimes they need guidance or love – something they just don’t have at home.”
Among the community members attending was Cesar Santibanez, who shared how several men shaped his own growth. “My uncle Whaakadup Monger, my dad Oscar Santibanez, and a buddy that passed away, Tony Craig,” he said. “Whaakadup taught me how to be more spiritual and connect. My dad taught me how to be a son and to become a father. And Tony showed me how to be an entrepreneur, to keep pushing forward even when you are tired.” Reflecting on how Tulalip men support strength and guidance in the community, he added, “Everybody just has to be there for one another, even when times are tough. Sometimes just being there for them is good enough.”
As the evening came to a close, the message was unmistakable: healing grows when men step forward with presence, intention, strength, and care. In honoring their roles as protectors and teachers, Tulalip continues to strengthen the generational ties that hold the community together.
The next Season of Healing, “From Surviving to Thriving” will take place on Thursday, February 12. The day will include a special lunchtime session with the Tulalip Youth Council, offering young leaders an opportunity to share their perspectives as the community continues its journey into the new year.
Winter has arrived in Tulalip, and with it comes the brilliant glow of a holiday tradition that has grown into one of the Pacific Northwest’s most beloved seasonal attractions. Now in its fourth year, Lights & Ice returns bigger, brighter, and more breathtaking than ever by featuring an astonishing 9.7 million lights.
This year’s display surpasses last season’s 7,885,000 lights by nearly two million, securing Tulalip’s position as the largest holiday lights display in WashingtonState and placing it on par with the biggest winter light displays anywhere in the nation.
“With more than 9.7 million lights, we are proud to present our largest display ever. Since launching this event, the holiday lights display has grown each year, and the Tulalip display is now one of the largest in the country,” said Teresa Meece, Quil Ceda Village Operations Director. “Beyond the spectacular lighting display, there are more holiday-themed activities to see and do this year and it really warms our hearts to see so many people come out to visit and celebrate the beauty of the season with us.”
What began in 2022 as a bold effort to create a free, family-friendly winter experience has blossomed into a Northwest holiday institution. One that draws tens of thousands of visitors each year and spreads cheer across the region.
Driving through Quil Ceda Village at night, the season of spectacle is impossible to miss. From both Interstate-5 exits, the village glows in layers. Towering trees wrapped in dense clusters of LEDs, building exteriors coated in shimmering patterns, and walkways lit by animated displays that dance with color captivate the imagination.
“Tulalip Lights & Ice are super cool. It’s such an accessible event that anyone can go and enjoy any day of the week,” shared Karen Gobin while strolling the winter wonderland with her 18-month-old grandson, River. “I have fun bringing my grandkids and watching them experience all the lights, especially the new animal sculptures that were added this year.”
In front of Tulalip Resort Casino, light tunnels stretch across walkways, giving families a place to pause, pose, and capture their holiday photos. Further into the village, giant illuminated ornaments, snowflakes, and draped canopy lights create a festive pathway leading visitors toward the heart of the experience: the Tulalip Amphitheatre and its real ice skating rink.
The skating rink, a returning favorite, lays centered among countless sparkling displays. On any given night, visitors can watch kids kick off their skates after a session, cheeks rosy from the cold, as new families lace up to take the ice for the first time.
Five-year-old ice-skating savant Samara Montez glided effortlessly around the rink’s perimeter while her mom, Jennifer, captured video from outside the rails. “We’ve been coming every year. My daughter actually learned to ice skate here,” explained Jennifer. “We love that the walk through is free and it’s fun for the whole family. Every year there’s something new, and this is super close to home for us. We don’t have to drive super far to enjoy holiday festivities. Plus, if you can’t tell, my daughter just loves ice skating.”
Inside the Amphitheatre plaza, guests can also find a lively holiday marketplace buzzing with activity and local creativity. Seasonal vendors offer artisan gifts, hot cocoa, sweet treats, balloon creations, and holiday crafts.
Tulalip’s winter wonderland is intentionally designed to be free and open to everyone, in keeping with the original vision set in 2022. Only ice-skating sessions require a purchased ticket.
The 2025-26 Lights & Ice season is in full swing now through Sunday, January 11, 2026. All lighting displays across the village are free to visit daily. The Tulalip Amphitheatre hosts a holiday marketplace and skating rink, which run throughout the season with scheduled operating hours posted online. For skating sessions, vendor lists, special character nights, and full event details, visitors can explore the official event page on QuilCedaVillage.com.
In the midst of Native American Heritage Month, we recognize the Seattle Seahawks for their continued partnership with the Muckleshoot Tribe. Together they’ve created a platform that amplifies Coast Salish culture in one of the region’s most visible public spaces.
It’s fitting that Seattle, the city bearing the name of Chief siaʔɫ (Duwamish and Suquamish), is home to such a meaningful collaboration. Nearly 160 years after his death, Chief Seattle’s legacy remains embedded in the very identity of the region.
At the heart of the partnership between Muckleshoot and the Seahawks lies the Heritage Plaza, nestled at Lumen Field. This space, designed in collaboration with Muckleshoot artists, is a vibrant tribute to Coast Salish artistry and tradition.
“To have this artwork here, in this space, at Lumen Fiend, makes me so proud,” shared Muckleshoot artist Sam Obrovac. “We are being represented here in Seattle, a place that we’ve always been, for the world to see. And we got to bless the art installations in our traditional way, by singing our songs, beating our drums, and having the youth bless each piece with cedar. It’s truly a beautiful thing.”
In November 2023, Seahawks leadership and Muckleshoot Council members gathered in a blessing ceremony. Traditional songs and drums echoed as two welcome figures, towering statues carved from cedar, were unveiled. They stand perched at the stadium’s north entrance, where they warmly greet millions of Lumen Field visitors each year.
Just below the welcome figures are stair railings that bear metal fabricated art inspired by a school of salmon swimming upstream.
According to Muckleshoot Historian Warren King George, each piece of art was designed to tell a story, an interconnected story of land, water, and people. “This was a place of importance…this place was home to the first people,” explained the tribal elder during the welcome figure unveiling. “When we get opportunities like this to remind our neighbors of who we are and where we come from, it’s our responsibility to share the value of this place, the value of home.”
Sail forward to 2025 and a second blessing ceremony held in Heritage Plaza. This time the Seahawks and Muckleshoot came together to dedicate a stunning bronze canoe installation. The canoe, featuring five seats and ten paddles held upright, is a sculpture intended to connect fans and visitors to the rich history of Coast Salish people, canoe culture, and a deep connection with the rivers and Salish Sea.
“We are certainly a water people, first and foremost,” declared Muckleshoot Councilman Donny Stevenson. “Traditionally, the waterways were our highways and byways in this land. It’s how we traveled place to place, village to village, land to land, and how we built and maintained relationships with our fellow tribes. This beautiful bronze canoe reflects our traditional values that still guide us today and into the future. It reminds us of what’s possible when we collaborate as equals and come together in friendship and goodwill.”
The Seahawks’ connection to Coast Salish culture goes back to their very logo. Rather than a caricature or stereotype, the iconic Seahawk is rooted in a Kwakwaka’wakw transformation mask. That mask, once hidden away in a collection, was later temporarily repatriated through the Burke Museum in Seattle.
Today, the Seahawks logo is not only embraced by local Coast Salish communities, but it’s also been reinterpreted and repurposed by countless artists across the region on textiles, jewelry, carvings, and more.
In a city named after Chief Seattle, the Seahawks’ recognition of Muckleshoot’s tribal sovereignty and present-day lifeways is a reaffirmation that Coast Salish culture is still here and still thriving. Lumen Field’s Heritage Plaza, the welcome figures, the canoe, and the mural are living expressions of a culture that continues to guide, teach, and enrich the broader Seattle community.
“I fully appreciate the fact that partnerships like these create visibility for all of us and for our culture,” reflected Muckleshoot artist and muralist Kimberly Saladin. “The mural was a labor of love I was contacted to create on behalf of my people. The women laughing and enjoying themselves is a representation of us and where we all come from.”
Tulalip News celebrates and applauds this vibrant partnership, and we look forward to more chapters of respect, recognition, and renewal in the years ahead.
The Hibulb Cultural Center opened its newest exhibit, Woven Ways: The Gift of Coast Salish Basketry, on Saturday, November 8. The exhibit celebrates the artistry, science, and spirit of Coast Salish cedar weaving, honoring the profound relationship between the people and the cedar tree, often referred to as the “tree of life.”
Displayed prominently on the wall are the words that set the tone for the exhibit: Cedar is a gift from the Creator, has provided for Coast Salish people in countless ways. For generations, Coast Salish peoples have woven baskets from materials gathered from the land with care and deep respect. This exhibit explores the art, science, and spirit of Coast Salish basketry, honoring both the knowledge passed through hands across time and the gift of the cedar tree. Yet, at the heart of this exhibit are Tulalip weavers — ancestors, elders, and present-day artists who have sustained and revitalized these traditions for the next generation.
During the opening, guests were invited to explore the weaving process from harvesting and preparing the bark to the intricate patterns that shape each creation. The exhibit honors both past and present weavers, displaying works by established artisans and newer creators who are carrying forward these cultural teachings.
At the center of the room sits a display telling the story Her First Basket, which follows a young girl as she learns to weave her first cedar basket. Through this story, visitors are reminded of the patience, guidance, and generational teachings that accompany the art of weaving. The story symbolizes how every weaver begins with a single strand of cedar, guided by the wisdom of those who came before. The book Her First Basket is also available for purchase in the Hibulb gift shop for visitors who wish to take the story home.
Surrounding this centerpiece are stunning woven works, including a cedar headband created by Jamie Sheldon and a cedar belt by Virginia Jones, both displayed on a mannequin. Each piece highlights the creative diversity of Tulalip artists who continue to blend traditional craftsmanship with contemporary expression.
Among the many featured artists, Tulalip tribal member Kiana Kona shared how meaningful it felt to have her work displayed alongside other weavers. “The transition from student to recognized artist has been profoundly meaningful and humbling,” she said. “Three years ago, I took my first cedar weaving class at the Hibulb Cultural Center. There, I learned to craft traditional baskets, purses, and earrings, skills that immediately resonated with my lifelong passion for jewelry design.”
Kiana’s words reflect the spirit of the exhibit, one that bridges the teachings of the past with the creativity of the present. “Weaving cedar is a continuous learning experience,” she explained. “My skills continue to evolve as I experiment with different weaving patterns and materials like salmon-skin leather. For me, the combination reflects the relationship my people have with the land and the sea.”
As visitors move through Woven Ways, each display tells a story of the connection between land, family, and generations of Tulalip people. “True art is timeless; it lives beyond our time on earth,” Kiana reflected. “It’s an honor to be showcased with Tulalip weavers and to have my work displayed alongside our ancestors and contemporary artists.”
Woven Ways: The Gift of Coast Salish Basketry will remain open throughout the winter season at the Hibulb Cultural Center, offering guests the opportunity to experience the living artistry and cultural teachings woven into cedar, a true gift from the Creator.
The gentle hum of conversation filled the Hibulb Cultural Center’s longhouse room on the afternoon of November 1, as community members gathered to celebrate the first day of Native American Heritage Month. At the center of it all was Rose Rae, an Indigenous author of Paiute, Mayan and Japanese heritage. Her newest children’s book, The Sacred Stone Camp, brings the spirit of Standing Rock to life.
Surrounded by cedar walls and the warm glow of soft lighting, Rose captivated the audience with her reading as she retold the historic Water Protector movement through the eyes of a child. Her words flowed like the rivers she spoke of, carrying messages of unity, land stewardship, and intergenerational strength.
“The Sacred Stone Camp is a love letter to our Native youth,” Rose shared. “So many of our children only know that something big happened at Standing Rock, but not what it meant. I wanted to give them a story that shows the beauty, courage, and prayer behind that movement.
To fully appreciate the children’s story book, it helps to remember what the Sacred Stone Camp truly was. In April 2016, members of the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe and their allies established the camp along the banks of the Cannonball River in North Dakota. It began as a small prayer camp led by women and elders to protect the Tribe’s water and sacred sites from the proposed Dakota Access Pipeline (DAPL), a massive oil pipeline slated to cross beneath the Missouri River, the Tribe’s main source of drinking water.
What started as a handful of tents and teepees quickly grew into a global movement. Tens of thousands of Native and non-Native allies joined the Water Protectors at Standing Rock, uniting under the cry of “Mni Wiconi” (Lakota for “Water is Life”). The camp became a living symbol of Indigenous sovereignty, environmental protection, and collective prayer. Though law enforcement eventually cleared the encampments, the spirit of the Sacred Stone Camp endures.
“The Sacred Stone Camp is also my way of carrying forward the legacy of LaDonna BraveBull (Standing Rock Sioux Tribe). She opened her land, her home to the Water Protectors at pivotal time during the NO DAPL movement,” explained Rose. “That was just her nature, to give and to open her arms and her doors to everyone. She taught me everything I know about walking in harmony with Mother Earth. After she passed away in 2021, it became really important to me to honor her in this way.”
The forty-page book, illustrated in stunning watercolor by Aly McKnight (Shoshone-Bannock Tribes), follows a young Lakota girl named Wičháȟpi (Lakota for Star), who travels with her family to the camps along the Missouri River. Through her eyes, readers experience teepees rising, traditional songs echoing, and the heart-stirring call of Mni Wiconi(Water is Life). Vividly illustrated with Earth-toned art, The Sacred Stone Camp bridges generations by teaching children that caring for the land and water is both an ancestral duty and a modern necessity.
“Representation like this is so important,” said book reading attendee, Tulalip tribal member Zenitha Jimicum. She’s carved out a career in the local education sector, working for Marysville School District before joining the Tribe’s education division. “Our children need to see themselves reflected in the stories they read. This particular story can also empower the youngest and smallest among us to stand up for what they believe in and to stand up for what is right.”
For those in attendance, like Zenitha, the afternoon’s literary event opening Native American Heritage Month was a reaffirmation of cultural storytelling and shared identity. By the event’s end, the longhouse space was filled with gratitude and inspiration. Rose signed copies of her book for families, offering gentle words of encouragement to readers who shared their dreams of making an impact one day, like the Water Protectors.
Like the empowering messages embedded in her children’s book, the words shared by Rose Rae at Hibulb set the tone for a month dedicated to honoring Native heritage. A month where the connection between people and land continues to be celebrated, one story at a time.
The Sacred Stone Camp. Written by Rae Rose and illustrated by Aly McKight is available for purchase at most major bookstores and online for $18.99.
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.”
