Please use the following link to download the June 13, 2026 issue of the syəcəb
Category: Tulalip News
Love for the birds
By Wade Sheldon, Tulalip News
Growing up on the Tulalip Reservation, I spent countless hours at my grandmother’s house, where every moment was filled with adventure, from playing video games and exploring the woods to indulging in sweet junk food. Yet what I cherish most from those early days is simply sitting in her vibrant garden, alive with cherry, apple, and peach trees and a dazzling array of berries: raspberry, blackberry, strawberry, and huckleberry. During harvest season, finding these fruits felt like uncovering hidden treasures.
The garden was a magnet for wildlife, attracting squirrels and a kaleidoscope of birds eager for the feast. Hummingbirds danced among the flowers, robins eagerly pulled worms from the rich soil, and a majestic Steller’s jay pecked among the trees. These everyday sights sparked my curiosity about these feathered visitors.
Is it age that fuels this fascination? I like to think it’s just a pure love of the game. Recently, that childhood curiosity was reignited after watching the movie The Big Year, which follows birders competing to see how many species they can spot in a single year. Watching the characters chase rare sightings and keep track of every bird they encountered made me wonder what species were already visiting my own yard. Wanting to attract more birds and learn to identify them, I asked myself, “What do I need to get started?” The answer, as it turned out, was bird feeders.
A quick trip to Home Depot led to a pair of feeders, one for hummingbirds and another for small songbirds. I prepared a sweet nectar mixture of four parts water to one part sugar, picked up a variety of seed mixes, and added a few hanging plants after learning that birds prefer a little cover while they feed.
Initially, it was a bit challenging. I set up the feeders and plants, eager for the birds to arrive. But days went by without a single visitor. I quickly learned that not all nectar is created equal. The store-bought nectar I purchased did not seem to attract the hummingbirds, while a simple homemade sugar-water mixture did the trick. The seed mix also sat untouched, so I improvised by spreading seed on a fencepost near the edge of the property, creating a trail that eventually led birds back to the feeders.
Then everything changed.
Slowly, the birds began to discover the feeders, igniting my newfound birding frenzy. The first species I identified was a song sparrow, thanks to the Merlin Bird ID app. The app can identify birds by their songs simply by listening or by analyzing a photograph. For someone just getting started, it felt almost like carrying a field guide in my pocket. What started as a simple curiosity soon grew into a hobby. Before long, I found myself listening for bird calls, studying photographs, and keeping track of every new species that visited the yard.
Today, I have identified 26 different species. While I am nowhere near setting any birding records, keeping track of each new species has become one of the most enjoyable parts of the hobby. Some of my favorites have been the Stellar’s jay, Rufous hummingbird, American goldfinch, yellow warbler, black-headed grosbeak, and northern flicker. Each new visitor feels like a discovery, and every morning brings the possibility of adding another bird to my growing list.
One of the biggest surprises was how quickly the birds adopted the feeders once they found them. The first few days were quiet, but once the birds discovered the food source, they began returning daily. It did not take long before I found myself checking the feeders several times a day to see who had stopped by.
Along the way, I learned birding is about much more than simply hanging a feeder. I discovered that some species, such as the Eurasian collared dove and house sparrow, are considered invasive and can compete with native birds. I also learned that if you have dogs, it is often better to use shelled seed, as discarded seed hulls can create a mess and may not be ideal for curious pets.
Perhaps the most valuable lesson has been patience. Birds operate on their own schedule, and there is no substitute for sitting quietly and waiting. More often than not, if I spend 10 or 15 minutes still and attentive, I will either spot a bird or hear one calling nearby.
For me, part of the fascination comes from watching a small animal that lives without many of the boundaries people face every day. Birds can take to the sky and travel wherever their wings will carry them, moving from forests and shorelines to neighborhoods and back again. There is something freeing about watching them come and go as they please.
Beyond that freedom, birds are simply beautiful creatures. The more time I spend observing them, the more I notice the incredible variety of colors, patterns, and designs nature has created. From the bright orange feathers of a Rufous hummingbird to the striking blue and black plumage of a Steller’s jay, each species seems to have its own unique personality and style.
What began as a simple attempt to attract a few birds to my backyard has grown into a daily hobby that encourages me to slow down, pay attention, and appreciate the wildlife that has been around me all along. In many ways, it has brought me back to those afternoons spent in my grandmother’s garden, watching the birds come and go among the trees and berry bushes that first sparked my curiosity years ago.
Tyson Hatch to take part in Envisions Intensive Law & Trial Program at Stanford University
Submitted by Envision
Tulalip, WA – This summer, Tyson Hatch from Tulalip will join outstanding students from across the nation to take part in a unique academic and career-oriented development experience, Intensive Law & Trial, Stanford University.
Tyson “Kiyuukyu” Hatch shared, “I am a freshman at Marysville Pilchuck High School. I have competed with the Snohomish Co. YMCA Mock Trial and Youth & Legislation Programs for the past three years; receiving 1st place with 10th Street Middle School in 2024 and was nominated for best attorney in 2025 for Mock Trial. During my time in Youth Legislation, I worked diligently to pass two bills in regard to decriminalization for youth and amending the RWC 13.50.260 to make juvenile record sealing more fair, efficient, and consistent.
Tyson continued, “I am excited to take part in this opportunity at Stanford University to further my education and engage in new experiences that align with my interest in becoming a criminal law or family court attorney in the future. I thank everyone for all of the support they have shown and given to help me achieve my goals and look forward to sharing my experience with other community members to encourage them as well to never give up.”
Said Dr. Jan Sikorsky, Vice President, Education for Envision, “I am excited for Tyson Hatch to meet, work, and collaborate with fellow high-aspiring students from other cities and schools. Stanford University’s Intensive Law & Trial Program is a wonderful opportunity for ambitious young students to explore their interests outside the classroom and discover how to innovate and think creatively through hands-on immersive learning. Our students are challenged with real-world simulations and problems, working together to develop unique solutions and projects to bring life to their studies and career interests.”
For over 40 years, Envision by WorldStrides has empowered extraordinary students to become their best selves through programs that enable them to discover their passion, explore a career, and positively impact their world. In 2018, Envision became part of the WorldStrides family. The largest provider of educational travel and experiences in the United States, WorldStrides works with over 50,000 educators each year to help more than 550,000 students see the world—and themselves—in new ways.
Finding her voice
Tribal member Priscilla Valencia takes an actionable approach to success
By Wade Sheldon, Tulalip News
Standing in front of an entire school would be intimidating for most adults. For 11-year-old Priscilla Valencia, it meant overcoming one of her biggest fears while sharing a message she believed her classmates needed to hear.
The Allen Creek Elementary fifth grader was recognized as Student of the Year during a June 8 ceremony at the Marysville Civic Center, after a school year marked by leadership, cultural advocacy, and academic achievement. From educating her classmates about Orange Shirt Day to becoming class president and competing at the KidWind World Championships, Priscilla’s efforts earned recognition from both her school and the City of Marysville.
Priscilla was among a group of students honored during the ceremony, which celebrated outstanding student achievement throughout the Marysville School District. During the event, Mayor Jon Nehring spoke about the importance of recognizing student success and highlighting the positive accomplishments in local schools.
For Priscilla, the honor carried special meaning because she grew up watching her older siblings earn recognition for their own achievements. “It means a lot,” she said. “I looked up to my siblings winning awards all their lives, so when I won this one, I was shocked on how far I made it at such a young age.”
The youngest of four children, Priscilla has been inspired by her older brother, Desmond, and sisters, Faith and Ariel, who have all taken active roles in their communities. According to her mother, Rosemary Valencia, Priscilla admired their accomplishments but was equally determined to create her own path.
That opportunity presented itself early in the school year when she began learning more about Orange Shirt Day. Wanting to better understand its significance, Priscilla researched the history behind Orange Shirt Day and learned more about the experiences of Native children who attended residential and boarding schools. As her understanding grew, so did her desire to share that knowledge with others. “It’s a part of my culture, and I want to learn more, so I did a lot of research and I wanted to teach others about it,” she said.
Motivated by what she had learned, Priscilla approached school administrators and advocated for greater awareness of Orange Shirt Day. According to her family, she met with the principal and explained why she felt students should be taught more about its meaning. Her initiative impressed school staff, who invited her to visit classrooms throughout Allen Creek Elementary and speak directly to students about the history behind the day. For Priscilla, the effort was driven by a desire to share knowledge and encourage understanding.
While speaking to an entire school may seem daunting for some, it represented an especially significant achievement for Priscilla. Rosemary said her daughter has worked hard to overcome a speech impediment and has long struggled with public speaking. Despite those challenges, she stepped in front of classrooms full of students and shared what she had learned. When asked if she was nervous, Priscilla admitted she was. “It was surprising how I talked to the whole school about it,” she said. For Rosemary, that moment represented a breakthrough. “Public speaking has been such a fear,” she said. “She’s so smart. She just needed to discover her voice.”
The confidence she gained through that experience carried into other areas of school life. Later in the year, Priscilla decided to run for fifth-grade class president. Her campaign nearly came to an abrupt stop when she became sick on election day and was unable to attend school, deliver her speech, campaign in person, or even cast her own vote. One of her classmates stepped forward and read her speech on her behalf. And when the votes were counted, Priscilla was elected class president, becoming the first Native American student to hold the position at Allen Creek Elementary, according to her family.
Asked what inspired her to run, Priscilla said she wanted to create representation for Native students at her school. “So I could be the first Native president,” she said. For Priscilla, leadership means helping others and doing the right thing, qualities she believes are important both in and out of the classroom.
Outside the classroom, Priscilla continued challenging herself through extracurricular activities. She participated in Safety Patrol and joined KidWind, a club focused on renewable energy and engineering. Working alongside her teammates, she helped design and build a solar-powered wind turbine that earned first place at a regional competition, advancing them to the KidWind World Championships in Madison, Wisconsin.
The trip brought a series of unexpected obstacles. Shortly after arriving, the team found themselves taking shelter during a tornado warning. They later discovered important project materials had been accidentally left behind, forcing them to rebuild portions of their project and presentation before competing against teams from around the world. Although they did not return home with a championship, the experience deepened Priscilla’s interest in science and engineering. Science and math are already her favorite subjects, and participating in KidWind helped confirm her hopes for the future. Priscilla said she wants to become an engineer, specifically working with renewable energy such as “solar power or windmills.”
Looking back on the school year, Priscilla said the accomplishments she is most proud of are the ones that allowed her to make a difference in her school community. “Winning Student of the Year and then winning Student Council President, and basically getting the school to do Orange Shirt Day,” she said.
For Rosemary, the recognition represents far more than awards or titles. It reflects the growth she witnessed in her daughter over the past year, as she gained confidence, faced challenges, and learned to trust herself. After watching Priscilla overcome her fear of public speaking, educate students about Orange Shirt Day, step into leadership roles at school, and compete on a world stage, Rosemary believes the biggest accomplishment wasn’t winning awards or being elected class president. It was discovering the confidence to speak up and be heard.
Rosemary said, “I feel like this year she discovered her voice.”
Big Dick’s Energy
By Micheal Rios, Tulalip News
History was made as Tulalip leaders, community members, and representatives from Dick’s Drive-In gathered for a public groundbreaking ceremony celebrating the future home of the iconic burger restaurant. When completed, the 33rd Ave and Marine Drive location will become the first Dick’s ever built on Native American land.
The event marked the beginning of a unique partnership between two organizations that share a common philosophy: investing in people and creating opportunities that strengthen communities.
As attendees gathered at the construction site on Monday, June 8, excitement filled the air for what many viewed as more than just another restaurant opening. The project represents a continued commitment by the Tulalip Tribes to pursue strategic economic development that benefits both current and future generations.
“Dick’s Drive-In has a long history of investing in its employees, supporting education, and giving back to local communities. Those values resonate strongly with Tulalip,” said Tulalip Vice Chairwoman Deborah Parker. “This project and partnership represent continued growth and economic opportunity for our people and our region.
“The investment being made here will create jobs, attract visitors, and strengthen our local economy,” she continued. “Strong economic development allows us to reinvest in our community, our families, our culture, and future generations. Successful partnerships are built on trust, respect, and a shared vision. We look forward to seeing this site transform into a place where families gather, employees build careers, and visitors experience the hospitality that makes Tulalip special.”
For decades, Tulalip has established itself as one of the region’s premier economic success stories. Through careful planning and long-term vision, the Tribe has developed businesses and partnerships that generate employment, attract visitors, and create sustainable revenue streams that support essential community services.
The arrival of Dick’s Drive-In adds another chapter to that story. The new restaurant is expected to create jobs for tribal members and local residents while further enhancing Tulalip’s growing commercial district. More importantly, Tulalip leadership emphasized that the partnership was built upon shared values rather than simply economic opportunity.
“We are so excited to be in this partnership with Dick’s and the family manages the franchise,” said Tulalip Treasurer Ryan Miller. “Of course, there’s the lease revenue and taxes that will be generated that will go right back into our community as support services for our membership. But beyond the economics, we know this is a great fit for us because we share values. They have a seven generation plan, and so do we.”
Founded in Seattle in 1954, Dick’s Drive-In has earned a reputation throughout the Pacific Northwest not only for its burgers and fries, but also for its commitment to employee well-being. The company has long been recognized for providing competitive wages, educational scholarships, health benefits, and advancement opportunities for its workers.
Those values closely align with the Tulalip’s own commitment to uplifting its people through education, workforce development, housing, healthcare, and cultural preservation. Throughout the ceremony, speakers reflected on how both organizations prioritize people over profits and understand that long-term success comes from investing in employees, families, and communities.
For Tulalip, economic development serves a larger purpose. Revenue generated through tribally owned enterprises and strategic partnerships helps fund programs and services that improve the quality of life for tribal members. Every successful venture contributes to strengthening sovereignty, creating self-sufficiency, and expanding opportunities for future generations.
The Dick’s Drive-In project reflects that philosophy. In addition to bringing a beloved Northwest brand to the reservation, the restaurant will create new employment opportunities and attract additional visitors to Tulalip. The project also demonstrates how partnerships between tribal nations and private businesses can create mutual success while honoring community values.
“This is such a huge moment in the revitalization of TTFC and the old Quil Ceda Creek Casino site,” said Tanya Burns, Tulalip Tribal Federal Corporation interim CEO. “It’s mind blowing to see the overwhelming amount of support and excitement for this franchise. Dick’s is about so much more than just burgers, they are in people’s hearts. I’m so proud to have been a part of this process, and I’m looking forward seeing our partnership flourish well into the future.”
As construction plans are developed and anticipation grows, both organizations remain focused on the same goal that brought them together from the start, which is creating opportunities for the people.
Small caps, big dreams at preschool graduation
By Shawn Dick, Tulalip News
Smiles, cheers, and proud tears filled the Gathering Hall as 80 preschool students from the Betty J. Taylor Early Learning Academy celebrated their graduation surrounded by family, friends, and educators.
The graduation ceremony, held on June 3, honored students from 10 preschool classes as they completed an important milestone, earning their first taste of education success. The event highlighted the students’ hard work throughout the school year and gave families an opportunity to recognize their young learner’s growth and achievements.
Dressed in their graduation attire, each student was recognized individually and received a paddle necklace before walking beneath a canoe archway, where they paused for photographs.
Among the proud family members in attendance was Ashton Irving, whose daughter, Daeja Irving, was one of the graduates. “It was a wonderful celebration of the students and their accomplishments. Watching Daeja graduate from preschool was incredibly emotional. It feels as though time is passing so quickly. It is a beautiful reminder of how fast our children grow.”
Caitlin Rea Howlett, mother of graduate Octavia Moses, said, “I thought the graduation was great. I really liked that they all got to walk around together.”
When asked about her daughter’s favorite activities at school, Caitlin said Octavia especially enjoyed arts and crafts and spending time outdoors with her classmates. “The biggest change I could see in Octavia was that she became more confident in herself and a stronger communicator,” she said. “I hope for Octavia to continue to grow with happiness and continue to stay open-minded.”
The ceremony concluded with families congratulating graduates as the students celebrated the completion of preschool. For many parents and caregivers, the event marked not only the end of a school year but also the beginning of a new chapter as their children prepare to enter kindergarten.
Honoring the Heritage Class of 2026
By Micheal Rios, Tulalip News
For the second consecutive year, Tulalip Heritage High School held its commencement ceremony in the heart of the reservation, welcoming graduates, families, and community members to the Tulalip Gathering Hall for an unforgettable celebration.
Twenty-two graduating seniors made their way into the packed venue amid thunderous applause, smiles, tears, and camera flashes as proud loved ones gathered to witness a milestone years in the making. Holding graduation on the reservation once again ensured easy access for family and friends while embracing the spirit of “Rez Rules.” Graduates were afforded the freedom to express themselves through traditional regalia, cedar woven caps, eagle feathers, vibrant beadwork, and other personal touches that reflected their identities and journeys.
Serving as emcee for the evening was respected educator and artist Tony Hatch, whose warmth and humor helped guide attendees through a ceremony that balanced celebration with heartfelt reflection.
“By hosting this graduation on our reservation, we’re able to do things in our traditional way. Our elders are seated up front, our ancestors are here with us, and together we can honor Creator to start this ceremony in a good way,” said Tony before offering up a Lushootseed prayer.
He then introduced Heritage High’s first year Principal, Gina Bluebird (Oglala Lakota). Gina spent the previous seven years as a teacher at Quil Ceda Elementary before taking the helm at Heritage.
“The class of 2026 students will forever remain in my heart because they were my first class as a school administrator. I am beyond proud to be a visitor on the homeland of the Coast Salish people, and I feel eternally grateful to all the parents for allowing your children to be in my care,” shared Principal Bluebird. “My goal, first and foremost, is to ensure they receive the education that they deserve.
“And it’s not just any education. It’s an education that allows them to walk out these doors and be proud of who they are as Indigenous people,” she continued. “Looking out from this podium and seeing each and every graduate wearing their culture, from cedar and eagle feathers to vibrant colored beadwork and handwoven sashes, that tells me how proud you all are.”
Before a single diploma was awarded, the audience embarked on an emotional journey through time. A slideshow presentation featured every graduate, beginning with infant photos before progressing through childhood, middle school, and ultimately their senior year. The video drew laughter from embarrassing childhood photos, tears from parents recalling years gone by, and plenty of cheers as each student’s story unfolded on the big screen.
The nostalgic look back served as a reminder of the countless moments, sacrifices, and victories that had brought the Class of 2026 to this very day.
Among the evening’s most memorable moments were speeches delivered by student representatives Elijah Fay and Lilly Jefferson, each offering unique perspectives on their educational journeys.
For Elijah, the road to graduation included a significant transition. After transferring to Tulalip Heritage during the tail end of his junior year, he arrived searching for a place where he belonged. In a heartfelt address, Elijah shared how he initially felt lost and out of place while navigating a new school environment. What he found instead was a welcoming community that embraced him and made him feel like a genuine part of the school and local tribal community.
“To my fellow graduates, I can’t thank you all enough. You made space for me. You included me in conversations that I didn’t grow up in. You laughed with me like I’ve always been part of the story. You turned a place that felt unfamiliar into something the felt like home,” shared Elijah. “That kind of acceptance isn’t a small thing when you are the one receiving it, it’s everything. It’s walking into a room and finally being able to breathe. It’s not having to wonder if I belong anymore.”
His message resonated deeply with fellow students who best understand the importance of belonging and being accepted for who they are at such a critical stage in life.
Tulalip’s homegrown Lilly Jefferson approached the podium with her trademark confidence and vision. A longtime advocate for youth leadership and Indigenous education, she challenged her fellow graduates to pursue bold dreams and never underestimate the power of their voices.
“Speak up and speak loud because we are the future,” encouraged Lilly. “Be kind and be nice. Let your light shine so brightly that others can see their way out of the dark.
“We often create these imaginary barriers in our head that make excuses for us, like ‘I don’t have enough time’, ‘I’m scared of being judged’, and ‘It’s too difficult’. But I’m standing up here to tell you that we all have things going on behind the scenes. Struggles, hardships, trauma. When are you going to stop and make the decision to not let your fears control your future?
“All of you are powerful and deserving of love and support,” added the inspiration 18-year-old. “Each of you are the greatest project you will ever work on. Restart, reset, and refocus as many times as you need, just never give up on yourself. When you are going through a difficult time remember our ancestor’s who fought tooth and nail for everything we have today. You are the answer to their prayers. We are their dreams they sacrificed everything for. So, walk into every room like your ancestors opened the door. Be loud, take up space, and always be proudly Indigenous.”
Both speeches from the two student speakers drew enthusiastic applause from the audience. Together, their statement’s perfectly captured the spirit of the evening, one that celebrated not only academic achievement but also cultural pride, community responsibility, and the generations who helped pave the way.
Following the presentation of diplomas, graduates crossed the stage one by one to embrace family members, educators, and friends waiting to congratulate them. The atmosphere was electric as cheers echoed throughout the Gathering Hall, each name announced serving as a testament to the academic achievement 12-years in the making.
Then, gathered together before their loved ones for one final moment as Heritage students, the Class of 2026 faced the crowd and, in unison, moved their tassels from right to left. The simple yet powerful gesture signified their transition from students to graduates, drawing one final, thunderous applause from a community that has supported them every step of the way.
Congratulations Class of 2026. The future is yours.
June 6, 2026 syəcəb
Please use the following link to download the June 6, 2026 issue of the syəcəb
Wearing the Big Red Dress
By Wade Sheldon, Tulalip News; photos courtesy of Mone’t Clemens
For generations, the Marysville Strawberry Festival Parade has signaled the arrival of summer for families throughout the Marysville and Tulalip communities. From colorful floats and marching bands to the festival royalty who wave to thousands along the parade route, the annual tradition has remained a cherished part of local life.
This year, Tulalip tribal member Mone’t Clemens is at the center of that tradition. As a graduating high school senior and the 2026 Strawberry Festival Queen, Mone’t is representing both Marysville and Tulalip while serving as an ambassador for one of the community’s most celebrated events.
The opportunity is one that has been years in the making for Clemens. Growing up attending the Strawberry Festival Parade, she remembers watching the royalty court make its way down State Avenue and imagining herself in their place one day.
“The first thing is growing up in Tulalip and going to Marysville to watch the parade,” she said. “Then seeing the Princesses and the Queen, that’s what first made me go, I want to be up there, and I want to be in that big red dress. As I got older, I realized it was more than just the dress, but being able to be up there representing who you are and where you came from.”
While earning the title was a proud accomplishment, the journey also required Clemens to overcome self-doubt and trust in her own abilities, something she said was one of the biggest challenges she faced along the way.
“Growing up, I feel many people face a lot of good and bad situations, but for me, what I had to get over was not believing in myself,” Clemens said. “I tend to put myself down and discredit much of the work I do. So, I think it was finding in myself that I am capable of doing what I put my mind to. I can push myself and get the support I need to get what I want.”
As she progressed through the royalty program, Clemens said she gained a deeper appreciation for the role and what it meant to represent not only herself, but also the communities that helped shape her.
“Well, when I first wanted to do it, I didn’t really look at it culturally,” she said. “But as I began my journey to becoming queen, I realized I am not only representing Marysville but also Tulalip. I think that helped shape my understanding that we, as Native Americans, can accomplish big things in a world that is kind of against us. And I think it shows that we, as Tulalip people, are powerful and can accomplish anything.”
That realization also strengthened her desire to inspire and show what can be achieved through determination and hard work.
“I hope to be that representation for the younger generation, someone they can see themselves in,” she said. “Not like the standard. So, they can say, maybe one day I could be up there, and I, too, could achieve big things. I want to be that voice for my community by being queen. It’s not just a title, it’s an embodiment of what I have achieved.”
Beyond the crown and public appearances, Clemens believes the experience has prepared her for future opportunities by building confidence and strengthening skills she will carry long after her reign has ended.
“I think this will help me feel confident pursuing other things in my future,” she said. “Having the opportunity to go through all the volunteering events as queen has helped me build my communication and leadership skills, which will help me make big changes in the future wherever I am. To know that I can speak what’s on my mind and not let anything diminish that. I am capable, and I do belong here.”
Since being crowned, Clemens has attended community events and public appearances throughout the region, experiences she said have made the significance of the title feel real in ways she never expected.
“It’s been a great experience,” she said. “The first parade I went to and saw all the faces of the young girls filled me with pride and honor. Being able to represent Marysville, Pilchuck, Tulalip, and my African American side, and to embody everything, has been surreal. It’s almost hard to put into words how it has made me feel. Also, having all my peers, friends, and family telling me how proud they are of me has really made me feel like I have accomplished a big thing and that this is just the start.”
Among the many highlights of her reign so far, one memory stands above the rest and serves as a reminder of how far she has come.
“I would say wearing the big red dress,” she said. “All the opportunities that have opened up for me and being able to be seen for all that I have done have been incredible. Not everyone sees the long nights at home doing homework. No one sees all the mental breakdowns and the not knowing if I am good enough. But being able to see the outcome has filled my heart with joy and love.”
Looking back on her journey, Clemens hopes her story encourages others to take chances and pursue opportunities, even when they may seem intimidating.
“I think that all the younger people who are scared to do something big, just do it,” she said. “You never know what the outcome will be, and even if the outcome is not something you want, you will grow from it. Just trying things and experiencing different things will help you grow as a person and open your world to a lot of new things and people.”
Those hoping to cheer on Clemens can catch her riding through downtown Marysville during the 2026 Marysville Strawberry Festival Grand Parade on Saturday, June 20, at 5:00 p.m. along State Avenue in Marysville.
Native youth honored at graduation celebration
By Shawn Dick, Tulalip News
Family, friends, and community filled the Gathering Hall on Friday, May 29, to celebrate Native American students graduating from the 5th, 6th, and 8th grades, as they prepare to move on to new schools and the next chapter of their educational journey.
The festivities were not only indoors, but the grounds were also transformed into carnival-style fun, with a rock-climbing wall, games, and a ride.
The recognition ceremony began with the 5th and 6th grade graduates, followed by the 8th-grade. Each graduate was wrapped in a Pendleton-style blanket, a meaningful gesture symbolizing support, pride, and encouragement from the community.
Throughout the evening, photographs of each student being honored were displayed on large drop-down screens inside the Gathering Hall, highlighting memorable moments in the students’ lives.
Here is what a handful of 8th-grade graduates had to say about their time in middle school and their excitement to be moving forward:
Noah Renecker, reflecting on his middle school years, said, “The most memorable part was making a bunch of new friends.” And as for the younger students following in his footsteps, he offered this advice: “Enjoy school because it goes by fast.” Noah also credited his uncle, Joe Davis, as one of his biggest supporters who helped him throughout his educational journey.
Kaeson Robinson said he is looking forward to the next chapter of his education. “I’m happy to be graduating and moving on to high school. I’m excited to meet new friends.” And he encourages younger students to stay focused and make the most of their time in the classroom. “Pay attention in class,” he advised.
Lakiahla Jones happily stated, “I am excited about graduating and moving on to the 9th grade, and I’m looking forward to having a fun summer”.
Ellashawnee Gorham-Dumont also shared memories and advice. “My favorite subject was art because I found the ability to express my emotions through my art. My advice to the younger kids is to do you and not follow the crowd. Just follow your own path.”
Louie Pablo said he is excited to begin high school and emphasized the importance of determination and hard work. “Persevere and dream big. Do the work and do it well.” He said success comes from staying committed, putting in the effort, and never giving up on your goals, even when challenges arise.
Applause filled the Gathering Hall as family and friends took photographs. And while each student is forging a different path, the evening shared a common message of encouragement, perseverance, and hope for the future.