Tulalip Foundation hosts 6th annual Salmon Bake Fundraiser

By Kalvin Valdillez, Tulalip News; photos courtesy of Nicole Sieminski, Stephanie Cultee and Tessa Campbell

A record breaking $70,000 was raised during the Tulalip Foundation’s Annual Salmon Bake Fundraiser benefiting the Hibulb Cultural Center. It was the hot ticket event of the summer and sold out during the week leading up to the gathering. Close to 250 people were dressed to the nines on the evening of August 17, as they convened at the cultural center’s terrace where they were greeted by the welcoming aroma of traditional baked salmon. 

“Our ultimate goal is to support the cultural center and to feature it’s work and all the good work that it’s doing,” expressed Nicole Sieminski, the Tulalip Foundation’s Executive Director. “It is gratifying to see people’s support and that they keep showing up for us. And we’re grateful that we keep getting new supporters as well. My goal is to keep growing, which we did by a lot. We raised $52,000 last year, which was big because it was the first time we broke $50. And this year we raised $70,000!”

Since its establishment, the Hibulb Cultural Center has imparted a vast amount of knowledge about the Tribe’s history and ancestral teachings to the wider community. With historical artifacts, photos, and documents, the center has provided insight and a tribal perspective on issues such as colonialism and assimilation while simultaneously celebrating the ancestral teachings, values, beliefs, and stories of the Tulalip people. 

Many of the cultural center’s gatherings, exhibits, and workshops are possible due in large part to the Tulalip Foundation’s annual salmon bake fundraiser. This is an all-hands-on deck event and is organized not only by the Foundation, but also the team from the cultural center. 

The Tulalip Foundation is a non-profit organization that supports tribal programs and projects based on five support areas – culture and natural resources, education and workforce, law and justice, community and development, and health and social. The Foundation has made a great impact on the tribal community and has become well-known throughout the region. Many local companies and nationwide corporations have donated thousands of dollars for the betterment of both Tulalip’s governmental programs, as well as community-led and focused projects. 

Making their sixth consecutive return to the event, the Taylor Family once again prepared the salmon over fire. What makes this special is that the people get to see this traditional method of cooking in real time. Attendees witnessed an act of passing knowledge to the next generation, as Lance Taylor guided his grandson Jared throughout the entire process. 

Ryan’s Rez-ipes, renowned for their delicious eats, was the official caterer for the event. And there were 22 sponsorships in total this year. Nicole shared that there were a few new sponsors, who have active contracts with the Tribe, that showed their support to the community including Korsmo Construction, KPFF Engineers, and the Wenaha Group.

While the food was being prepared, the guests were invited to tour the cultural center’s exhibits and gift shop. This was also the time to peruse the items that were up for bid at the silent auction. Rows of tables displayed artwork and regalia that was donated by nearly 30 Tulalip artists. Beside each donation there was an informational note, detailing the art piece and the artist, as well as a sheet of paper where the guests could place their bids.

“It’s always nice to see everybody’s work,” shared Nicole. “One that I loved this year was made by Jose Roja, who is a Tribal youth. He made his first traditional wool skirt and matching headband. Since it was his first one, he’s supposed to give it away, so he donated it to us to put in the silent auction. We actually had several Tribal youth who donated items for the silent auction, that was really cool to see our youth participate and show their support.”

Once the silent auction placed a last call for bids, the event began with an opening prayer by Natosha Gobin and the presentation of colors by the Tulalip Honor Guard. Young Tribal member Lizzie Mae Williams shared a traditional story, followed up by opening remarks from the Hibulb Cultural Center’s Museum Manager, Mytyl Hernandez. 

DJ Monie was behind the turntables and helped set the vibe of the soiree throughout the night. As the attendees enjoyed their fresh king salmon dinners, they were treated to a live spoken word and flute performance by Renee Roman Nose and Peter Ali. 

From the comfort of their seats, the guests could scan a QR code, where they could donate to a canoe restoration project via their smartphones. They also had the chance to enter in a drawing to win a canvas painting by Tulalip artist, Ty Juvinel. 

“This is the first year we did a specific fund a project,” said Nicole. “This was a canoe that was donated earlier this year that needs some serious restoration and treatment, it was outside for a very long time. Hopefully it will go on display in the canoe hall. This is a full-sized river canoe, the one in the canoe hall now is actually child sized. This is very similar to what we’d use here along our Snohomish, Stillaguamish, Skagit rivers. And Ty’s donation was great. We decided to use that for our special drawing. We always like to feature something unique for the special drawing. It was a very large print, almost 4ft x 4ft.”

This year’s fundraiser was dedicated in memory of David Spencer Sr., who was an active participant in countless events at the Hibulb Cultural Center for many years, notably at the annual film festival and the salmon bake. And according to Nicole, David also voices the introduction video that plays inside of the cultural center’s longhouse as people tour the museum.

Once everybody collected their winnings, the 2024 Salmon Bake Fundraiser was officially marked as a success in the books.

“I am extremely grateful for everyone’s support from friends, community, tribal partners,” Nicole stated. “Hopefully it means we’re doing our job well and showing them how the cultural center is continuing to serve the community. Every year the funds are going to future exhibitions and programming. Thankfully, the cultural center staff are able to continue to offer events. They just released their September events, and they have a busy schedule. It’s good to see that and hopefully our donors can see that as well.”

For more information, and to stay up to date on the Hibulb Cultural Center’s events, exhibits, and activities, be sure to give their Facebook page a follow. And for addition details about the Tulalip Foundation, please visit www.TulalipFoundation.org.

M’s come up clutch during Native Night

By Micheal Rios, Tulalip News

It’s impossible to know exactly how many Native Americans attended the Seattle Mariners vs. Tampa Bay Rays baseball game on Monday, August 26. But what we do know is the game’s official attendance was announced as 29,755 and, based on pure observation, one can safely say that a good percentage of that was proud Indigenous culture bearers from across the Americas who journeyed to T-Mobile Park to celebrate ‘Native American Heritage Night’. 

Knowing full well how chaotic evening traffic can be, citizens of the region’s Coast Salish tribes hit the road early to ensure arrival into the Emerald City prior to the game’s 6:40pm opening pitch. Additional incentive to arrive early came in the form of a highly coveted, limited-edition jersey created by Muckleshoot tribal artists. Jerseys were only made available to the first 10,000 fans.

Last year, Muckleshoot and the Seattle Mariners announced a long-term, multi-faceted partnership allowing the organizations to work together to impact the broader community throughout the Pacific Northwest. 

“This partnership is the result of two organizations coming together who share common values and beliefs. We’re excited to celebrate the Tribe’s culture and traditions with fans at T-Mobile Park, while providing enhanced baseball and softball access to more children throughout our region,” stated Catie Griggs, Seattle Mariners President of Business Operations.

“To be able to assert … our place and our identity within the city, within the region, with organizations like the [Mariners and Kraken], it’s hugely important and it’s hugely meaningful and really a powerful step for our tribe, for our people,” added Muckleshoot tribal councilman Donny Stevenson at the time of the announcement.

Prior to Monday night’s first pitch, the Muckleshoot Canoe Family took to the always stunningly manicured green grass of T-Mobile Park and shared their culture though dance and song.

The Mariners’ 11,000-square-foot scoreboard routinely displayed facts about Indigenous tribes of Washington State throughout the evening. The monstrous digital screen even showed Tulalip tribal members on multiple occasion. The first being 7-year-old Anthony Jefferson Jr. saying “Let’s play ball!” in Lushootseed. Then again, when the cameras panned to Morning Star Creations founder Nina Gobin-Scott hard at work sewing a ribbon skirt. She was asked by members of the Mariners’ public relations team to represent Indigenous entrepreneurs on the center field foyer, where her custom-made ribbon skirts were being sold and auctioned off to benefit Hummingbird Indigenous Family Services.

“It’s a huge deal for me as an Indigenous woman and small business owner be asked to setup and display my work for so many people and communities to see. I feel so honored,” shared Nina while taking a brief break from her devout sewing machine. “An underrated part of opportunities like this are being able to impart insight and expand perspectives of non-Indigenous people who may be curious about our cultures, arts and businesses, but unsure of who or how to ask.

“One of my favorite moments from the night was being able to sell a skirt to a First Nations relative from Canada attending her first Native Night,” continued Nina. “It’s truly breathtaking. There are so many places someone can go to buy a ribbon skirt and recognizing this, I don’t take it for granted when someone sees one of my designs and is excited to purchase from me.”

Turns out that Canadian purchaser was Councillor Morning-Star Peters of Tk̓emlúps te Secwépemc. Think of her as a tribal councilwoman of her First Nation. Morning-Star graciously shared, “My family was determined to not miss out on Native American Heritage Night this year, so we got the specialized tickets and got here early for the jersey and hat. I definitely did not expect to find a ribbon skirt, but that’s the beauty of our people – they always find a way. I’m so excited to bring this ribbon skirt back home with me. It’ll be a precious memento of this special night.”

During actual gameplay, the Mariners gave their adoring fans much to cheer about for 9 full innings. Second baseman Jorge Polanco (Dominican Republic) hit a 341-foot homerun in the second inning to tie the game at 1-1. In the following inning, recently acquired outfielder Randy Arozarena (Mexico via Cuba) smashed a 376-foot, 3-run homer that gave the home team the lead for good. Starting pitcher Bryce Miller went 7 strong innings and tied a career-high with 10 strikeouts. 

Ultimately, the M’s won an excitement-filled game, 5-1, in front of the largest Monday home crowd they’ve had all season. Only adding to the growing legend that is ‘Native Night.’

Backpack giveaway makes triumphant return

By Micheal Rios, Tulalip News

It’s been five long years since the Tribes’ annual back to school bash featured its iconic backpack giveaway. Missing since 2019, the double shoulder strap carry-all bags made a triumphant return on Wednesday, August 21, to the delight of students and parents, alike.

Anticipation was so high that several families lined up in front of the Youth Center doors a good two-and-a-half hours before the giveaway started. Misty Flores wanted to guarantee teenagers Caianne Santee, 17, and Skylar Flores,16, had first choice among the ever popular and extremely limited Skyn Style backpacks that feature stunning Native designs. 

“It was important for us to be first in line so they could get the backpacks they wanted and so that I could get back to work,” said Misty. 

“I’m excited to pick out a really cool backpack for school,” added Caianne. She stated so eloquently, like only a current teenager can, that the importance of having a cool backpack is “to avoid being made fun of for having a weird or lame backpack.”

Skylar and Caianne accomplished their mission by both selecting Skyn Style backpacks. Skylar went with the subtle white and black tribal print design, while Caianne opted for the fearsome Warriors bag that features the portraits of Chief Joseph, Red Cloud, Geronimo, and Sitting Bull. Safe to say there’s nothing weird or lame about that backpack, that’s for sure.

Also, among the first ones in the doors after eagerly standing in line for two plus hours was Valerie Alcombrack and her kiddos. Six-year-old Zaida Castaneda was so full of excitement that she couldn’t help but shout, “A pink one!” when asked what kind of backpack she was hoping for. Minutes later, the soon-to-be 1st grader was radiating pure princess energy as she sported a sparkly pink backpack out of the gymnasium. Her eight-year-old, big brother Kain opted for the base blue, Minecraft themed bag to rock during his upcoming 3rd grade year. 

Hundreds of Tulalip students eagerly picked out a backpack before filling it with classroom supplies, like pens, pencils, spiral notebooks, folders and so much more. The deep-seeded commitment to the educational well-being and academic future of our youth went beyond essential school items. 

In addition to the distribution of backpacks, the event also includes various activities and resources that promote academic and personal development. Educational booths, cultural presentations, and health screenings are often part of the event, providing a holistic approach to preparing students for the upcoming school year. 

There were several resource booths on site with local school district staff, volunteers, and educators intent on boosting the confidence of students and parents as they transitioned into school mode. These resources help to address the broader needs of the youth, ensuring they are not only equipped with school supplies but also with knowledge and support that will help them thrive both in and out of the classroom.

“It’s just good to see all the support the kids have to motivate them in and out of the classroom. They know they have so many who want them to succeed and rally want them to move forward in the best way possible,” described papa bear Cory Pablo as he perused the resource tables with his kindergartener and 1st grader. “My kids have been talking about this backback day for like a week and a half. Now, they can’t wait to finish up in here so we can check out everything that waiting for them outside.”

Oh, the marvels of being back outside. Like a scene out of Willy Wonka, there were free snow cones and popcorn being handed out by Tulalip Bay paramedics, literally a thousand slices of Costco pizza being distributed, and a variety of wildly fun shenanigans for the kids to enjoy. RECKLESS spinning carnival ride? Of course. Rock climbing wall? Sure. American gladiator style jousting? Why not. 

Peak memory making and community building to end the kid’s summer vacation, the return of the backpack distribution is also a reflection of the Tribes’ emphasis on unity and mutual support. The excitement around the event brings together not only the children and their families but also local leaders, educators, and community members to socialize in a whimsical atmosphere.

“We did so much outreach behind the scenes to make this as successful an event as possible,” reflected Jessica Bustad, Executive Director of Education. “This is a prime opportunity to reach our people because there are hundreds, potentially thousands, who walk through our doors today. A big priority for us was recruiting departments and organizations that we know our students and families need access to prior to school beginning so that they can, hopefully, begin building a relationship that they can then carry forward into the new year. 

“As a parent, too, I’m so thankful for all the resources the Tribe makes available to our kids so they are in the best position to succeed,” she added. “Beyond the backpacks and school supplies, we know that as Tulalip families that our students are fully supported with their educational journeys.”

Nothing but Day light

By Micheal Rios, Tulalip News

Multi-sport athlete and Tulalip tribal member, Tucker Day, has taken up the grid iron challenge. Having already found early success on the baseball diamond as both a pitcher and hitter, the inspiring 11-year-old has swapped his glove and baseball for shoulder pads, a helmet, and a nifty forearm play sheet as a two-way player for the Concrete Lions youth football program.

“After I saw Tucker’s athletic potential and grittiness displayed playing baseball, I asked his parents if he could play football,” explained Lions head coach Arthur Sanchez. “He never played organized football before, but both he and his parents were on board with him playing. He’s shown a lot of potential already. He’s our starting wide receiver on offense and starting cornerback on defense.

“He’s got great hands. He’s got speed. He’s got height. All things any coach would love to have in a pass catcher,” added the longtime football coach. “On defense, he doesn’t shy away from contact, he’s a great tackler. Having never played before, there is still so much for him to learn, but it’s obvious he’s a willing learner and wants to develop his technique on both sides of the ball to benefit his team.”

Tucker’s innate skill and ability on the football field was on full display during a recent jamboree hosted outside Burlington-Edison High School. Youth programs from across Snohomish, Skagit, and Whatcom counties were invited to the fast-paced football extravaganza. Games typically lasted only 15-20 minutes before teams would rotate and immediately begin playing a new opponent.

The quick turnaround and lack of prep for their opponents made the stakes low and competition high; yielding plenty of moments for Tucker to shine. Casual sideline observers could easily distinguish Tucker from the myriad of other players and teams because of his signature twin braids.

“I’m proud of Tucker for embracing his Native American heritage through his hair,” shared Tucker’s mom, Jerry Davis. “He’s known as the boy with the braid by other baseball teams in our area because he’s a pretty good baseball player and having a braid is something that stands out. I thought it would be cool if he went with two braids for football.”

Living in Sedro-Woolley, one could imagine a boy with a braid is a rare sight, let alone two braids. As Tucker continues to develop his athletic potential in multiple sports, traveling near and far, his braids are something that can always serve as his connection to tribe and community.

In fact, that connection will take on an entirely new meaning come September 7. On that summer morning, Tucker’s Concrete Lions will host the Tulalip Hawks.

“Baseball is my favorite sport. I really wanted to try out for football because it’s a cool sport and some of my teammates from baseball play on this team. I also love running and in football I get to run around, a lot,” said Tucker following the jamboree. “Playing wide receiver is fun because I get to run on almost every play. There are so many routes to run, like posts, slants, and go routes.”

Regardless of which route he’s runing, the desired result is always the same – a catch in the open field with nothing but day light in front of him. 

A feast of fun and wisdom at the Elders Potlatch

By Wade Sheldon, Tulalip News

Elders from near and far came together at the Tulalip Gathering Hall on August 15 for the Annual Elders Potlatch. With an impressive 898 elders signed in, the event saw over 1,000 attendees who gathered to enjoy camaraderie, delicious food, and thoughtful gifts. The line stretched out the door and down the street as people eagerly arrived to partake in the festivities.

A lively bingo game added to the festive atmosphere and allowed participants to win prizes, enhancing everyone’s enjoyment of the celebration.

The event began with tribal member Tony Hatch welcoming everyone. Following his introduction, the Tulalip Canoe Family performed traditional songs, enriching the atmosphere with their powerful voices. Reigning King and Queen Ray and Sheryl Fryberg were honored at the event, drawing smiles and applause from the attendees.

A special moment of the day was the recognition of the two oldest attendees: 96-year-old Donald Smith from Yakima, born on May 28, 1928, and 97-year-old Vera Drake (Charity) from Campbell River, born on June 6, 1927. Both elders were celebrated with handmade gifts donated by local artists, including a wool skirt, shawl, and handcrafted cedar hats.

Lloyd Belmont from Suquamish shared his reflections on the event, emphasizing the importance of connecting with the elders. “Meeting all the grandmas and grandpas, introducing myself, and getting to know who they are and what territory they come from—Yakima, Elwa, Lummi, Ground Round—is so meaningful. Receiving those blessings and experiencing the hospitality that Tulalip has to offer is something special,” he said.

For Lloyd, the event was more than just a gathering, it was an opportunity to watch, learn, and honor the elders. “Teachings come in many forms, and it’s important to give them that acknowledgment, from the youngest to the oldest,” he continued. “Often, people tend to leave their elders sitting at home alone. Sitting down with them, sharing a smile, and connecting is essential. We need to remember they blazed the trail that allows us to be doing what we are doing today.”

Stan Manzano from Yakima and Wiley Close from Lindale, Texas, both had high praise for the event. Stan particularly enjoyed the seafood selection, especially the crab, remarking, “It was a good event. I enjoyed it.” Wiley, who traveled back for the second year, added, “I loved the event. I came the first year and had to travel back for the second one. I liked the Canoe Families’ songs.” Both expressed their excitement by stating they would be back next year.

The Annual Elders Potlatch united generations, strengthened connections, and honored the elders. The day’s atmosphere of respect and community left a lasting impression on all who attended.

Paddling Forward: Over 100 TELA students take next step in educational journey

By Kalvin Valdillez, Tulalip News

Standing in line amongst their classmates, a cohort of Tulalip’s youngest learners patiently waited for DJ Auntie Monie to call their name. After receiving a cedar paddle necklace, they took a symbolic step into the future as they passed under an archway of cedar branches to the applause of hundreds. At that moment, a flash of each of their personalities shined bright as many students either took the time to strike a pose or hurry out of the limelight. But without fail, you could see their confidence and pride grow as they found their loved ones cheering them on in the crowd. 

Held at the Tulalip Amphitheater on the morning August 16, the Paddling Forward ceremony was the Betty J. Taylor Early Learning Academy’s official return to an in-person celebration. Although the drive-thru style graduation was a hit during the pandemic, the excitement about this year’s event was electric among the families and staff, and especially the graduates who couldn’t wait for the festivities that would follow the ceremony. Altogether, there were over 100 graduates, with nearly 40 students moving up to preschool and about 70 kids transitioning to kindergarten this fall. 

Beautiful regalia was on display as the kiddos rocked cedar caps or wool woven headbands for their big day. These were handmade by their families as a part of the Academy’s family culture nights. Each graduate also received a giftbag with their very own hand drum to take with them on their educational journey. 

TELA excels in both introducing and instilling Tulalip’s culture and traditions to their students at a young age. This ultimately helps establish a foundation where they can continue learning and practicing the lifeways of their people throughout their lifetime. And in turn, pass the teachings on to the next generation. 

TELA Director, Sheryl Fryberg, shared , “We have a new assessment called the LOVIT Way. So, teachers are always paying attention and thinking how they can integrate more culture and language, on a daily basis, into their classrooms, beyond what the Lushootseed teachers bring to us. It’s really enriching all of our children. A few years ago, we brought the Lushootseed teachers to birth-to-three and it’s making a huge impact. Our next step is getting it to the prenatal, because how do we learn English? When we’re in utero. We want them to have that because that’s where our language will live on. And for our culture, we have such great plans for this coming year because we have more people that are going to be working with Lushootseed. They’re called the Rediscovery Program, and it’s amazing that’s happening.”

Once each graduate received their paddle pendants, the students rushed toward the outer edges of the amphitheater where fun awaited them in the form of bouncy houses, a bubble station, and numerous carnival-style games and activities. 

When asked if she could impart one final message to the recent graduates, Sheryl shared, “Reach for the stars and learn to love to learn. That’s the most important thing. I think that when we instill that in our babies, that sense of wonder, that’s where they’ll grow and find that thing that they love to do in their lives.”

Rita Elaine Matta

MARCH 30, 1951 – AUGUST 9, 2024

Rita was born March 30, 1951 and passed away peacefully on August 9, 2024. Rita was a proud member of the Tulalip Tribes and enjoyed playing bingo, casino hopping, shopping, cultural events and the pow-wow trails visiting family and friends.

Rita is survived by her 5 children, 14 grandchildren and 10 great grandchildren that she loved and cherished dearly along with her brother Kirk, Sisters- Val, Nancy & Georgia , numerous nieces & nephews, and beloved family members & best friend Gayle Jones. 

Rita preceded in death by her life time partner Dana Matta, their infant son Firecloud, her parents Lawrence & Etta Jones, Brothers-Buck, BJ & Sisters-Juanita, Bonnie & Peggy. 

An evening service will be held at 6 PM at the Tulalip Gathering Hall on Friday, August 16, 2024. A celebration of her life will be held, Saturday, August 17, 2024 at 10:00 AM at the Gathering Hall with burial to follow at Mission Beach Cemetery.

Drive-in fun and fundraising


By Wade Sheldon, Tulalip News

On Saturday, August 10, hundreds of community members gathered at the Boom City lot behind the Tulalip Resort Casino to support the Cystic Fibrosis (CF) Foundation. The event, hosted by Dan and Kelsey Pablo, was the annual drive-in movie fundraiser for their son Keldon. It aimed to raise money and awareness for people suffering from cystic fibrosis. This year’s featured movie was Kung Fu Panda 4, and the event successfully raised $26,744 for the cause.

In addition to the movie screening, Kelsey and Dan organized a raffle with prizes donated by various businesses and local artists. The raffle items included hotel stays in downtown Seattle and Tulalip, Mariner’s memorabilia and game tickets, traditional wool skirts, and more.

Various local food trucks and vendors added to the festivities, offering delicious treats like homemade lemonade, snow cones, frybread, and tacos. Attendees enjoyed indulging in the tasty offerings. One of the kids at the event, Tyler, remarked, “This is fun. I liked the red raspberry lemonade I got.”

Kelsey explained the history and adaptation of the event. “This is year 16 of a Tulalip Cystic Fibrosis event, but our third year doing a drive-in. For fourteen years, we did a walk at the Amphitheater. Then, when COVID hit, because cystic fibrosis is a lung disease, we couldn’t have everyone close, so we came up with the drive-in movie so people could stay in their cars and stay separated. It was like bringing back the Thunderbird.”

Fondly recalling his high school memories of the Thunderbird drive-in, Dan shared, “It was always a fun time with friends.”

Highlighting the family and community involvement, Kelsey noted how amazing it is to see the money raised and awareness spread. She emphasized that everything is 100 percent donated, with contributions from friends, family, and the community. The raffle constitutes 90 percent of their fundraising since the event is free, aside from sponsorships from the Tribe and a few small businesses.

Dan expressed gratitude, saying, “We would like to thank the Tribe for all the help they have given. They let us use this place, and throughout the year, they help immensely with medical coverage for our son.”

Kelsey concluded, “We are truly grateful. There are a lot of CF families that struggle with supplies and medications, and this event will help with that.”

The evening was filled with laughter, camaraderie, and a shared mission. The event’s success highlighted the power of collective support in making a difference for those affected by cystic fibrosis.

If you or someone you know is impacted by cystic fibrosis and would like to make a difference by donating or learning more, please consider visiting fightcf.cff.org.