Tribal Journey 2025 Suquamish Welcomes Canoe Families
Community Calendar
Meetings
Suquamish Tribal Council meets Aug. 11. Agenda and links sent via SUN Weekly Update & SUN text.
Suquamish Tribal Gaming Commission meets Aug. 5 & 19, 10am at the Gaming Commission Bldg. Call (360) 394-8652 for details.
Suquamish Warriors meets Aug. 5, at 5:30pm at the Warriors Vet Center.
Suquamish Seafoods Board next mtg. TBD. Call Shanel Carlson at (360) 394-8512 for details.
PME Board meets Aug. 13. Contact Emily Sato at emilysato@clearwatercasino.com for details.
Suquamish Museum Board meets Aug. 21, 10am-noon at Museum. For info call (360) 394-8499.
Elders Council meets Aug. 19 2-4pm. At Elders Lodge, call (360) 394-8417 for details.
Recovery Meetings. All are welcome to recovery meetings, held Mon-Fri, 6pm at the Wellness Center.
Suquamish News
Community Events
Back-to-School BBQ Aug. 7, 10am4:30pm. Includes gear and clothing swap. CKA Commons
Chief Seattle Days Aug. 15-17. See ChiefSeattleDays.org for all the details!
Suquamish Tribal Temporary Assistance for Needy Families Program (STTP) Community Kickoff Celebration Aug. 20, 5-7pm at HOAC. For info Contact the Child Support team at (360) 394-8465.
ELC celebrates young graduates
The Marion Forsman-Boushie Early Learning Center is proud to celebrate the achievements of our 27 graduates from the Bear Head Start, Bee ECEAP, and Eagle Head Start classrooms! These bright young learners are now ready to take the next big step into Kindergarten. We know they will flourish in the year ahead, and we can’t wait to see all they will accomplish. Congratulations, Class of 2025! (Photo by JoAnn Joe)
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of Suquamish
Suq uamish Museum
Heritage Bus Tour Fridays 11am-4pm. Aug. 9 FREE Museum Admission
Aug. 14-17 Chief Seattle Days Sale & FREE Admission
Aug. 23 The History of the Suquamish Tribe with Barbara Lawrence. FREE Event at 1pm.
More info: SuquamishMuseum.org
On the Cover
Suquamish Tribe welcomed canoe families traveling in the Tribal Journey 2025 “Paddle to Lower Elwha” July 27. After an evening of protocol, the Suquamish Canoe Family joined the journey the next day. See more on pages 9-11. (Photos by Jon Anderson)
Suquamish Tribal Council
Leonard Forsman Chairman
Josh Bagley Vice-Chair
Irene Carper Secretary
Andrew George Treasurer
Lorilee Morsette Member
Azure Boure Member
Luther Mills, Jr. Member
Editorial Staff
Leonard Forsman Editor-in-Chief
Catherine Edwards Executive Editor
Erin Bischoff Communications Mgr
Jon Anderson Managing Editor
JoAnn Joe Photography/Design
Georgia Browne Layout and Design
Editorial Policy
Publishers of the Suquamish News reserve the right to refuse publication of letters to the editor and guest editorials. Submission of editorials and letters is encouraged. However, they represent the opinion of the author and not necessarily that of the Suquamish Tribe. As such, we reserve the right to refuse to print any letter, for any reason.
Honoring Our Graduates
Suquamish Tribe celebrated its Class of 2025 High School and Higher Education graduates in a summer ceremony at Kiana Lodge.
With a welcome address from Tribal Chairman Leonard Forsman and a traditional blessing song from Suquamish Song & Dance, 21 graduates and their families enjoyed a meal together and a keynote speech from tribal artist Calina Lawrence.
High school grads were gifted cedar paddles, hand-crafted by tribal carver Ian Lawrence. Higher Education graduates were each wrapped in an 8th Gen blanket.
The annual event was hosted by the Suquamish Tribe’s Education Division and emceed by Higher Education coordinator Kali Chargualaf.
Lucy Dafoe returns as principal of Chief Kitsap Academy Bringing lifetime of tribal education leadership full circle
Afterseveral years leading Neah Bay Middle and High School on the Makah Reservation, Lucy Dafoe has returned home to take the helm once again at Chief Kitsap Academy.
Dafoe previously served at CKA as both teacher and principal from 2014 to 2021, helping shape the school’s foundation on its current campus. Her return marks a new chapter, guided by decades of experience in tribal schools across the country and deep personal connections to the Suquamish community.
“I wasn’t looking for a new job,” Dafoe said. “But when the phone call came about this opening, I realized how much I missed being home — being close to family, being part of this community. It was a fast decision, but the right one.”
“Lucy made a significant impact during her previous administration, leading efforts that improved behavioral and academic outcomes and helped cultivate a culturally responsive and supportive school environment,” said Suquamish Education Division Director Brenda Guerrero.
start.”
Over her four years back in Neah Bay, Dafoe helped lead a cultural and academic revitalization.
“Her experience and vision will be instrumental as we continue building on our achievements and strive toward our collective goals.”
Longtime CKA admin Trish Chargualaf, who worked closely with Dafoe during her previous tenure in Suquamish, said she’s “very excited to see Lucy come back. It feels like a weight has been lifted.”
In Neah Bay, Dafoe oversaw grades 6 through 12 at the small but dynamic public school on the Makah Reservation. The role brought her full circle there as well — she started her teaching career there in 1994.
“The parents of my students had been my students,” she said. “And many of the staff had been my students, too. It gave me this incredible head
Under her leadership, students earned state championships in sports, hosted culturally centered summits with other schools, and saw many students graduating with both high school diplomas and Associate’s degrees.
The school integrated outdoor education, traditional foods, language, and carving into core academics. “It wasn’t culture or school—it was culture and school,” she said.
That blending of Native traditions with academic rigor has been the hallmark of Dafoe’s career. In addition to Neah Bay and Suquamish, she’s worked with the Puyallup and Seminole tribes, always with the goal of grounding education in place, language, and cultural values.
At Chief Kitsap Academy, she plans to reinvig-
orate that focus with outdoor classrooms, place-based learning, and curriculum that reflects Suquamish knowledge systems.
“This is such a unique location,” she said. “We’re near the water, the forests, and so many resources. We should be using all of it to support our students’ growth — academically, culturally, socially.”
Dafoe also acknowledges the challenges ahead. “It’s no secret that these last few years have been difficult,” she said.
“Our students are still recovering from the pandemic. Behaviorally, emotionally, academically — we’ve all had to rebuild. My goal is to create a consistent, structured environment where staff are supported, kids are seen, and families feel welcome.”
She wants to emphasize proactive communication, community engagement, and a renewed academic push. “We’re going to focus on instruction,” she said.
“State test scores show there’s work to be done. But that work happens when kids feel safe, when staff feel supported, and when families are included.”
A lifelong educator, Dafoe was raised in Joyce, Washington, and earned her degree in music education from Western Washington University. She is Paq’wtšən First Nations.
Now back home full-time, Dafoe is settling into her office, catching up with former colleagues, and beginning to lay the groundwork for a strong school year.
“I feel energized,” she said. “This is a school our students get to come to, not a place they have to go. I want CKA to be a place of belonging, where culture and learning walk side by side.”
By Jon Anderson Suquamish News Staff Writer
BACK TO SCHOOL BBQ BACK TO SCHOOL BBQ
Let's start the year with excitement and joy!
When: Thursday, August 7, 2025
Where: CKA Commons
16341 Creative Dr. NE, Poulsbo
Time: 10:00am - 4:30pm
School Supply Gif t Cards issued by Education Dept.
Back to School Clothing Gif t cards issued by Human Services
Each t ribal member ages 4-18 & enrolled in K-12 receives ONE supplies gif t card from the Education Dept.
ribal member/descendant
Family & Friends Center
August events
Aug. 8 Culture Hour
Aug. 11 & 13 Wild Waves
Aug. 18 Closed
Aug. 21 Back-to-School BBQ & Youth Council Elections
Aug. 22 High Trek Adventures in Everett
Aug. 26 Mariners Native American Night in Seattle
Chairman’s Report
Exciting news: The Suquamish Tribe is planning to construct a shellfish hatchery to produce seed for hardshell clams, oysters and geoduck.
Shellfish program staff and Tribal Council have been meeting to finalize the design and budget for this important project that will allow us to enhance our local beaches for tribal harvest. Meanwhile, our government-to-government efforts continue as we work to protect our treaty rights and advocate for programs that support tribal government activities.
Building understanding
Fisheries Director Rob Purser skippered the MV Challacum, our tribe’s multi-purpose barge, on a tour of Sinclair Inlet for local state legislators and staff from the Washington State Department of Transportation. The day trip was designed to help them learn more about the importance of these waters to our fishing fleet. Along the way, we noted places of cultural significance to the Suquamish people.
Tribal Council met with Rep. Emily Randall (DWA) to discuss tribal priorities and needs. Randall talked about the challenges of being both in the minority party and being a new member of Congress. She is committed to protecting tribal sovereignty and investments in Indian Country within the federal budget and through policy development. We asked her to protect funding already appropriated for tribal projects from rescission and other efforts to deny us needed funding for hatchery operations and other projects.
We provided an update on our discussions with
the U.S. Navy on proposed work at the Puget Sound Naval Shipyard. We also toured sites on our reservation including Old Man House Park and the Suquamish Seafood Enterprises.
Navy Region Northwest held a change of command ceremony for Rear Admiral Mark Sucato who is retiring from military service. Sucato demonstrated a commitment to government-to-government consultation with the Suquamish and other tribes and set a great example for future Navy leaders on proper protocol. We wish him the best in his retirement and it was a pleasure to attend the ceremony and honor his work.
Staying focused on federal actions
The National Indian Health and NW Portland Area Indian Health Boards have hosted frequent meetings to brief tribal leaders on federal legislation such as the reconciliation package for the “Big, Beautiful Bill” and other federal actions and their impacts on Indian Health Care.
Tribal budgets have fared relatively well in the process but there are concerns about indirect impacts with cuts to Medicaid and other health program budgets.
The Department of the Interior and Indian Health Service Self Governance Committees held meetings in Washington DC in late July. This was an opportunity for tribal leaders and policy staff to consult directly with agency directors and staff to address concerns about administration proposals to reorganize agencies and cut staff.
I also met with several members of Congress including Sen. Maria Cantwell, Dan Newhouse, Rep. Randall, and staff members from other Washington delegation members. I relayed our concerns about staff cuts at federal agencies, appropriated funding distribution delays, the entry of the Commodity Futures and Exchange Commission into online betting, and the impacts of deregulation on our treaty fishing resources.
Leveraging tribal unity
Intertribal leadership organizations are important in creating the unity needed to protect tribal sovereignty at the local, state and national level.
The Affiliated Tribes of Northwest Indians Executive Board that includes me, Chris Peters (Squaxin Island Chairman), Caj Matheson (Coeur d’Alene
Council), Charlene Tillequots (Yakama Council), Mel Tonasket (Colville Council), Sharon Goudy (Yakama Elder), and Jeannie Louie (Coeur d’Alene Elder) met at the Ilani Casino to develop a strategic plan for the future growth of the organization.
The Washington Indian Gaming Association held its monthly meeting where staff reported on further efforts to educate the public about the economic benefits of gaming to tribes and local communities. We also received updates on the Maverick legal case and activities at the Washington State Gambling Commission.
Education celebrations
Here in Suquamish, we held our annual graduate honoring at Kiana Lodge where we recognize all of our high school, technical school, and college graduates. Calina Lawrence provided a keynote speech focusing on wellness and tips for life success.
The University of Washington Board of Regents had two significant events – the naming of Oliver Residence Hall and our annual Board Retreat.
The UW named two new residence halls at a joint ceremony; Spratlen Hall after Economics Professor Theodore Spratlen and Oliver Hall after Quinault/ Isleta artist Marvin Oliver, the late professor of Indian art at the UW.
Marvin was well known for awarding American Indian graduates of the UW with a framed print of one of his original works. This year’s Board retreat was the first for our incoming President Robert Jones, the former Chancellor of the University of Illinois. The university faces many challenges with potential federal cuts to research grants and Medicaid.
On waterfront – and in the water
The City of Seattle held an opening ceremony for the new park at Pier 58 on the Seattle waterfront. City leaders, including Mayor Bruce Harrell, joined me and Chairman Jaison Elkins of the Muckleshoot Tribe in the celebration. A state-of-the-art children’s playground is the signature element.
Ending the month, Suquamish Tribe hosted the Tribal Canoe Journey “Paddle to Elwha” stop for canoe families traveling from the south.
Youth royalty and Tribal Council welcomed the canoes ashore. Sailors from the U.S. Navy’s Trident Refit Facility at Bangor helped pack canoes up to the lawn of the House of Awakened Culture and back down to the water the next morning. We had 21 canoes land and several more that started at Suquamish.
After dinner the canoe families shared songs, dances and words on the floor of HOAC and we saw the canoes off as they left for Port Gamble.
As hosts, our canoes left the beach last and had a great pull to the Port Gamble S’Klallam Reservation that day and then on to Lower Elwha.
The journey is an intertribal ceremony where individual canoe families unite internally to join other tribes, coming together to celebrate culture, sobriety and passing on traditions to our youth.
Looking ahead, the third weekend in August means only one thing in Suquamish – Chief Seattle Days. I hope see you all there for our annual celebration of our ancestral leader!
By Leonard Forsman Suquamish Tribe Chairman
Next Tribal Council Meetings
Aug. 11, Sept. 8, Sept. 22
August 15-17, 2025
FRI August 15
CSD Golf Tournament .............9am
Whitehorse Golf Club
22795 Three Lions Pl. NE, Kingston
Royalty Pageant .......................3pm
Manaia ‘Ohana (ELC).................3pm
Coastal Jam Dinner ...................5pm
Coastal Jam.....................6pm-10pm
Softball Tourney*...........6pm-10pm
All sporting events and the teen dance take place at the Athletic Center (5283 Totten Road, Poulsbo) and are indicated with an *. All other events take place downtown Suquamish in and around the House of Awakened Culture unless otherwise noted.
DRAFT
Sat August 16
Softball Tourney*.............9am-7pm
Gravesite Honoring .................10am
7076 NE South St., Suquamish
Parade ................................11:30am
Horseshoe
Tourney * ...................11:30am-5pm
Cornhole Tourney* .........12pm-5pm
Salmon Bake ............................12pm
Canoe Races .....................1pm-8pm
Powwow .........................1pm-10pm
1pm – 1st Grand Entry
5pm – Manaia ‘Ohana
5pm – Dinner Break
7pm – 2nd Grand Entry
Powwow Grand Entry ..............7pm
Teen Dance* ...................8pm-11pm
Sun August 17
Softball Tourney*.............9am-2pm
5k Fun Run ................8am-10:30am
Fish Fillet contest ....................9am
Elders Walk ..............................10am
Youth Activities 12 & Under......10am
Salmon Bake ............................12pm
Powwow .........................12pm-5pm
Manaia ‘Ohana ......................1:30pm
Hosted by:
Chief Seattle Days
August 15-17
C ultur E
The 2025 Summer Enrichment Camp
Whata summer! We are still beaming with gratitude and pride for the 2025 Summer Enrichment Camp. It was two incredible weeks filled with learning, laughter, and community. With an average of 25-30 students each day, our camp was a vibrant, busy space where youth were encouraged to be kind, respectful, and most importantly, just be kids.
Gratitude for Leadership and Support
We’d like to start by expressing our deepest thanks to Brenda Guerrero for her thoughtful and grounded leadership. Her support, encouragement, and commitment to uplifting our voices helped shape this camp into a nurturing and successful experience for all involved. Thank you for always leading in a good way.
Special Thanks to Guests & Partners
We are honored to have had the support of so many wonderful departments and individuals who contributed their time and talents:
The Shellfish Program brought energy, passion, and marine life knowledge to camp with two engaging days of hands-on lessons. Your dedication and love for your work truly inspired our students.
Azure Boure shared her cultural knowledge with grace and generosity, leading a nature walk that students absolutely adored. With magnifying glasses in hand and curious minds at work, they learned so much from your stories and wisdom. Suquamish police officers visited camp and gave our students the opportunity to explore cop cars, learn about drones, and ask lots of questions. Thank you for your patience, kindness, and for connecting so genuinely with our youth. Thank you to Craig Miller, who made it possible for Chris Miller to teach archery. A handsdown camp favorite that the students raved about!
A very special thank you to Chef Skylene George for nourishing our campers with delicious breakfasts and lunches every day. Your food was a highlight, and the students and staff made sure to tell you just how much they loved it.
We are also incredibly grateful to Kayla Wakefield, Director of the Early Learning Center, for partnering with us and ensuring ELC students could participate in camp. Your support expand-
lives up to its name and then some!
ed this opportunity in a meaningful way. Thank you to Tiffany and KC for the daily transportation of ELC students to the Old Tribal Center. Your reliability, warmth, and thoughtful care made a real difference each day.
A Very Special Thank You
Behind the scenes, one of the people who made each day possible was Ian Lawrence. While we emphasized personal responsibility and made it a core value to clean up after ourselves, the reality is that we simply could not have started each morning without Ian’s incredible efforts. Ian, thank you for keeping the Old Tribal Center clean, safe, and ready for our students to learn and play. Your hard work does not go unnoticed. You are as good as it comes, and we are so grateful for you!
Letting Kids Be Kids
In addition to all the amazing support and learning, we made sure camp was a space for joy, movement, and imagination. Activities included:
• Painting, drawing, coloring, and LEGO building
• Kickball, soccer, volleyball, and cornhole
• Two different park visits for free play
• A karaoke station. The students sang until the machine ran out of battery!
• Learning how to play “bump”, which quickly became a daily tradition!
• A movie day to beat the heat and relax
• Water Day at Old Man House Park—students swam, floated on driftwood, held kelp fights, made kelp hairdos, built sandcastles, and even got buried in the sand. The laughter was nonstop!
Closing Thoughts
Summer Enrichment Camp was a beautiful celebration of learning, connection, and play. We are so thankful to each person who contributed their time, energy, and heart to make this camp a success.
The smiles, the stories, and the memories made will carry our students into the school year with confidence and joy.
To all of our campers, we are so proud of you. Have a restful remainder of your summer and an amazing start to the new school year!
By Chris Miller and Napua Korsak Academic Coaches
Tribal Journey 2025
Suquamish hosts “Paddle to Elwha” canoe families
Tribal Journey 2025
Suquamish Canoes underway again!
Suquamish
Canoe Family skipper Nigel Lawrence wears a broad smile as he guides QalQal-Ah-Haitch through the Salish Sea, the Olympic Mountains towering in the distance as bull kelp brushes gently beneath the long cedar canoe.
Not far away, Skipper Rob Purser and his crew of pullers are gliding across the water in sister canoe Siahm Ah-Oatks. Suquamish Tribe flags snap proudly behind both skippers in the steady breeze as they make their way to Lower Elwha for Tribal Canoe Journey 2025.
Any tricky currents stirred by tsunami ripples from a distant earthquake in Russia prove no match for either canoe. It’s the kind of day that would make anyone smile — but Lawrence is feeling particularly blessed, because it’s a day that might not have happened for him and his crew.
Just a few weeks earlier, Qal-Qal-Ah-Haitch was far from seaworthy. And James Anderson was hard at work.
The rebirth of Suquamish canoe carving
On a crisp morning in British Columbia’s rain-dappled forest about 25 years ago, a young James Anderson lifted his chisel to steam-warmed cedar, the hiss of the steam echoing in the hush. Just out of high school, Anderson was a new apprentice under master carver Ray Natraoro.
“You’re probably the only people on the planet steaming a canoe right now,” Natraoro told him and a handful of other Suquamish youth learning traditional Coast Salish methods of canoe carving. It was a moment that stayed with Anderson for life: the smell of cedar, the hot spray of the steam, the communal rhythm of pounding and shaping — all of it speaking to something far deeper than just carving.
That forest in B.C. was the birthplace of what would become two Suquamish canoes — first Siahm Ah-Oatks, then Qal-Qal-Ah-Haitch — each carved from a single giant cedar log.
“That log was enormous — eight feet across at the butt,” Anderson said. “When it was laying on the ground, if you were six feet tall, you’d have to reach all the way up to touch the top of it.”
For the first canoe, a 42-foot section of the log
was used. “We cut one end off to make it 37 feet, and used the rest to carve the stem and stern—or the head and tail, as we say.”
The second canoe, Qal-Qal-Ah-Haitch, was carved about a year later from the remaining section. But that far up the tree, the wood wasn’t as strong. On one edge, the cedar had begun to separate and wasn’t strong enough to hold the sea at bay.
So the weaker material, on what would become the starboard side, was replaced with sturdy cedar planks, overlapped and gradually bent into place.
Both canoes have since become beloved vessels of the Suquamish Tribe’s ever-moving culture— centerpieces of the Tribe’s participation in Canoe Journey each year, as well as countless other cere-
monies and celebrations.
“But we knew those boards would need to be replaced eventually,” Anderson said. And leading up to last year’s journey, it became clear that time had come.
A full circle
Though he went on to help carve half a dozen canoes over the years, Anderson is now a tribal fisherman. But his practiced hands are still helping care for his tribe’s canoes.
Last year, he patched Qal-Qal-Ah-Haitch with steel plates so it could complete the journey. This year, a full rebuild was needed.
Over 50 to 60 hours of intense work, Anderson and his assistant, John Jones, stripped the canoe to
its bones — seats removed, cracks exposed, rotting planks replaced, and long timber-locks installed.
They meticulously re-textured the hull with chisel grooves to reintroduce the hydrodynamic lift that makes for swift paddling.
“This should last another 25 years,” he said.
The repairs, Anderson said, are more than physical. They are spiritual and symbolic gestures of renewal.
“I love doing it. Coming full circle like this feels right,” he said.
As those familiar cedar shapes glide again across Puget Sound toward Lower Elwha, Anderson says he’s proud to have helped build them — and now,
to make sure they remain seaworthy.
“I knew in my heart of hearts we were part of something special back then,” he said. “And it’s pretty special now to do it again.”
Lawrence agrees.
“The canoe is beautiful—it’s in great shape,” said Lawrence from his skipper’s seat, as his crew of pullers propelled Qal-Qal-Ah-Haitch through the water. “It was a little scary seeing it taken apart like that, but they know what they’re doing. I’m really happy with how it turned out. It’s gorgeous—and really great to have it back on the water again.”
By Jon Anderson Suquamish News Staff Writer
New Human Services program offers tribal-centered help for families in need
Anewprogram will provide comprehensive support to tribal families who need help the most while strengthening tribal sovereignty and self-determination. Called the Suquamish Tribal Temporary Assistance for Needy Families Program, or STTP for short, the initiative is being celebrated as a hard-fought win for the Human Services Department and the tribe as a whole.
“This is a monumental milestone for the Suquamish Tribe,” said Human Services Director Nehreen Ayub. “By bringing these services to Suquamish, we can better meet the needs of Suquamish families while strengthening the tribe’s sovereignty and its capacity to care for its people.”
The program offers monthly cash assistance, employment and training services, and supportive resources to help families overcome barriers to stability.
After years of planning, negotiation, and advocacy, the STTP replaces the state-administered Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program. The new program is tribally operated and tailored specifically for Suquamish families, households, and descendants — a first for any Tribal TANF program in Washington state.
Unlike state-run TANF systems, STTP plans to integrate cultural activities, community engagement, and traditional practices into service delivery, reflecting the tribe’s vision for a holistic, culturally grounded approach to family well-being.
The road to this achievement was far from easy. Tribal leaders and staff spent years navigating complex federal requirements, submitting multiple Letters of Intent, and enduring delays and shifting timelines.
One of the most difficult hurdles was negotiating the program’s Assistance Unit count with the state—a process that took over nine months and at times threatened to derail the effort entirely.
“At one point, we were offered an Assistance Unit count so low that launching the program seemed nearly impossible,” Ayub said.
“But through careful research, community outreach, and an unwavering commitment to representing the Suquamish people accurately, we were able to more than double the count—achieving the largest AU negotiation increase the state has
SUQUAMISH TRIBAL TANF
Suquamish kicks off Indigenous Milk Medicine Week Aug 8
The Suquamish Tribe breastfeeding team is gearing up for Indigenous Milk Medicine Week.
Indigenous Milk Medicine Week is celebrated annually August 8-14, honoring the cultural significance and healing properties of Indigenous milk and breastfeeding practices.
The week serves to uplift and protect the practices surrounding milk medicine, emphasizing its role in community health and well-being. The event is a collaborative effort among Indigenous breastfeeding counselors, lactation consultants, and community health advocates.
This years theme: “Strengthening Our Traditions: From Birth and Beyond,” which emphasizes the importance of traditional practices in nurturing and supporting families. The week aims to address health disparities faced by Indigenous populations, promote breastfeeding as a cultural act of resilience, and foster community connec-
tions.
Indigenous milk medicine is recognized for its healing properties and plays a vital role in strengthening emotional bonds between parents and children and addressing intergenerational trauma.
The week serves as a platform to share stories, knowledge, and resources that support Indigenous breastfeeding practices.
Teachers come to learn in Suquamish
Teachersfrom school districts around the Suquamish original territory came to the Suquamish Port Madison Indian Reservation on June 23-24 to learn about “Tribes and Climate Change”. It was an experience hosted by the Suquamish Tribe and produced by non-profits, including the Pacific Education Institute (PEI), Washington Wild and This Is Indian Country (TIIC).
It was the third in a series of workshops being conducted by the “Indian Country Project”. The first two workshops were held at the Tulalip Tribes and Quinault Nation, and more are on the drafting board.
“If all works well, there will be more to come,” said Workshop Coordinator Steve Robinson. “The long-term objective of the effort is to reach hundreds of teachers in the Northwest, and thus thousands of students.
It is an effort meant to make a difference in public education about tribes. Tribal leaders and spokespersons speak about the work being done in response to climate change as well as natural resource management overall.”
“This is a great opportunity for teachers in the state to learn about effective co-management and Tribal Ecological Knowledge,” said Suquamish Chairman Leonard Forsman.
Forsman and Suquamish Natural Resource
Director Casey Schmidt were integrally involved with the morning session on day one, briefing 32 teachers and others about impacts of climate change.
They also spoke of the tribe’s projects meant to counterbalance these impacts, such as culvert removal and the adoption of clean energy. The teachers also heard from Squaxin Island Chairman Kris Peters, who spoke about many of the same issues in his tribe’s region.
The afternoon of the first day teachers divided into circles to study and discuss a new curriculum, “Tribes and Climate Change”, which is included on the TIIC website, ThisIsIndianCountry.org. That same site provides more than 30 in-depth interviews with tribal leaders across the state as well as documentaries, teaching tools available to all teachers, researchers, and interested citizens at no cost.
The second day of the workshop featured a bus and car tour of Suquamish tribal facilities and environment projects guided by Since Time Immemorial Specialist Barbara Lawrence, Shellfish Manager Vivianne Berry, and Finfish Program Manager Allison O’Sullivan. Stops included the Chico Creek culvert and riparian restoration project, the Suquamish Seafood Plant, Chief Seattle’s grave, among others.
Did you know?
Community Health, located in the Suquamish Administration Building, has a beautiful lactation room with comfortable seating and a relaxing environment for pumping or nursing babies. The room features the art of Tribal Elder Diana Riggins, who donated her talent by painting a drum that hangs on the wall. The tribal community is encouraged to utilize this special space.
Lawrence announced that there will be Suquamish Specific Curriculum for middle and high schools available in time for fall 2025. This Suquamish Specific Curriculum has been a work in progress for a few years and has included research, writing, detailed maps, units and lessons that align with Washington State standards.
Then the teachers were off to the House of Awakened Culture to hear from a panel featuring Chief Kitsap Academy Student Luther Mills IV, Tribal Council Member Azure Boure, and Police Chief Mark Williams.
To top off the day, the teachers were treated to a clam and salmon bake, provided by Suquamish tribal member Tyleander Purser.
“The teachers asked plenty of questions and the tribal leaders answered them all. Now, with appropriate follow up, the task is for the teachers to convey accurate and detailed education about the tribes to their students. There is much to be gained through this process,” said Kathryn Kurtz, PEI Executive Director.
“Tribes are a critically important component in the field of natural resource management and climate change response,” said Tom Uniack, Executive Director of Washington Wild. “These workshops can help get the word out that tribes are key to sustainability of our beautiful environment.”
Beverages
Chicken
Enchiladas
Brown Rice
Refried Beans
Tossed Salad
Birthday Cake & Ice Cream!
Sloppy Joes
Baked Beans
Cucumber Slices
Hamburger Bar Light and Tangy coleslaw
Fresh Fruit
Chewy Chocolate Cookie
Chicken w/ Homemade Noodles
Pork Pancit
Germany Blend Veggies
Kale Salad
Yogurt and Fruit
Indian Tacos w/ meat, beans, lettuce, tomato, salsa, cheese Fresh Veggie Tray
Corner Elders
We had a great group of Elders attend the Jamestown S’Klallam Elders Honoring in Sequim on July 10th—it is always such a peaceful, scenic drive. There was a larger group of Suquamish Elders than usual, about 30 of us! While there were no big raffle winners, the group had fun listening to 80s music. We partied with Kyle “Lefty” & Rose George, Karen & Nita Villanueva, Camilla Pratt & son Joseph Agibnik, Dennis Clark and many of our Elders who attend nearly every honoring event.
We had our first “Elders Pop-Up Breakfast” at All Stars Bowling Alley—and even though it came together last-minute, it was a great time! About 20 Elders joined us, and we shared good food, laughter, and community. If you missed it, don’t worry—there’s talk of another Pop-Up Breakfast happening this fall. Stay tuned!
Minestrone Soup
Cucumber-Tomato
Applesauce Muffin
Veggies
Tossed Salad
Garlic Bread Italian Ice
Goulash
Brown Rice
Tossed Salad
Egg
Cucumber-Tomato Salad Wheat Roll Fresh Fruit
Oven Roasted Potatoes
Steamed Spinach
Tossed Salad
Pachado Bread
Frozen Fudge Bar
Geoduck Chowder
Chef Salad (w/ hard boiled eggs, meat, cheese)
Applesauce Muffin Yogurt & Fruit
Our recent BBQ at the Elders Lodge was another big success! Huge thanks to our gourmet chefs from the Suquamish Police Department— they keep us safe and grill a mean hot dog! A sweet highlight of the day was Melissa’s famous brownies, soft, tender, and gone in a flash! Rumor has it that a pancake breakfast might be coming soon, once again featuring our favorite SPD chefs. We’ll keep you posted!
What a sight it was to witness the canoes landing on the shores of Suquamish during the Canoe Journey stop in late July. The energy, beauty, and spirit of the day were absolutely unforgettable. It was especially wonderful to see some of our Elders supporting the event. For nearly four hours, Della drove the golf cart, shuttling Elders safely and comfortably to our House of Awakened Culture. JoAnn Joe was at the Info Booth, answering questions and providing directions. Lena Mahoney was out there with a smile, serving up delicious chicken to our guests, while the George Twins—Randy and Wayne and their assistants—grilled up the best BBQ chicken in town. It was “finger-lickin’ good”— moist, flavorful, and cooked with love.
A huge shout-out to our Emergency Management Office and Cultural Department for keeping everything running so smoothly and with such organization. And of course, our
Maintenance and Police Departments totally ROCKED the day—what a team effort! Community Health was also on top of their game, providing first aid services and reporting no 911 calls—what an amazing outcome. Our Port Madison Indian Reservation was full of joy and pride as visitors shared so many kind compliments about our tribe. It truly made my heart feel full. We should all be so proud of what we accomplished together. It was a day to remember, a moment of cultural pride and community strength.
We want to send a big, heartfelt belated birthday SHOUT-OUT to a very special new member of the “90-Year-Young Club” — Mr. Leroy Henry III! Let’s give a warm welcome to Leroy as he joins the most prestigious club we have here on the Port Madison Indian Reservation. Your wisdom, strength, and presence are a gift to our community, and we are honored to celebrate this incredible milestone with you. Happy 90th, Leroy! Here’s to many more years of joy, stories, and continued blessings.
We heard that Dolor Mills is living the good life down in Florida with her daughter, Gloria Smith. She’s currently on vacation, soaking up the sun under a palm tree and enjoying some well-deserved pool time! Watch out for the alligators, Dolor!! And what a treat it was to see Ardy and Larry Longway at our recent BBQ! It had been a while since they’d joined us, and their presence brought even more joy to an already wonderful event.
Do you know one of our Elder’s name is floating in space? Sorry, you are going to have to wait until next month to find out the answer!
We send our deepest love to the families of Cory Winnie/Roselyn Tso for the loss of their son Clayton. May you find comfort in our community and healing in the love that surrounds you. You are in our hearts and prayers, always. We will miss you dear Clayton.
We send healing thoughts to Elders who are recovering in the hospital, nursing homes, not feeling well, and prayers to those in need. Live life, and don’t forget to laugh! Remember to smile, even if it is in the mirror.
By Della Crowell, Melissa Lund, and Antonia Ewing, Elders Program
Health Benefits
Tip of the Month
We will investigate any billing issue you have when you bring in your bills or receipts. Reimbursement will not always be made directly to you as many times the provider or pharmacy will reimburse you once the billing issue is resolved. Contact Health Benefits for Assistance as soon as you have an issue! Office: (360)394-8424 PO Box 546, Suquamish, WA 98392
If you cannot walk away when you’ve reached your limit, or if you find yourself preoccupied with thoughts of gambling or in conflict with others because of your gambling activity, we can help.
Contact the Suquamish Tribe Wellness Center at (360) 394-7139 or (360) 3948558. We are here for you.
Call or text WA State 24-hour Helpline 1-800-547-6133.
There is hope. Treatment is available and effective.
Sacred Hoops
When basketball is more than just a game
Over the past six months, Sacred Hoops coaches James Old Coyote and Kaiden Finkbonner proudly coached 19 teams in three age brackets and participated in 13 tournaments, spanning from Lummi to Las Vegas.
Through these efforts, Sacred Hoops has supported and inspired approximately 60 tribal youth, offering them not only the opportunity to compete, but also to thrive.
Sacred Hoops promotes healthy lifestyles, provides safe and structured weekend activities, and represents a meaningful investment in the future of both our tribal youth and the Suquamish Community.
Basketball is more than a sport in Native American communities. It is a cultural foundation. For generations, it has served as a unifying force, a source of pride, and a vehicle for healing and empowerment.
On reservations and in tribal communities across the country, basketball courts are gathering places where youth build resilience, leadership,
and identity. The game offers a path to higher education, personal growth, and community connection.
Sacred Hoops builds on this legacy. Not only does it nurture athletic talent, but it also reinforces cultural values such as teamwork, perseverance, and respect.
Just as important as the players on the court are the families, elders, and community members who show up to cheer them on.
When Native youth see their community in the stands clapping, singing, and encouraging them they feel seen, valued, and uplifted.
This united presence reinforces a sense of belonging and pride in their skill and their love for the game. When you support Sacred Hoops, you are helping to sustain a tradition that uplifts Native youth and strengthens tribal communities.
We want to thank the Suquamish Community and Suquamish Tribal Council for believing in and supporting our Rez Ball Family – Sacred Hoops.
By Nina Old Coyote
Suquamish kids enjoy summer fun at Culture Camp
August
August 1
Olivia Chiquiti
Zea Medina
August 2
Jackson Sherman-Dunn
Joseph MacDonald
Kevin Alexander
Legend George
Lyle George
Madeleine Welch
WA-LA-CHUD Chiquiti
August 3
Jackie Oakman Jr.
Jameson Clark
Kali Hess
August 4
Carlos Alegria-Sigo
Carol Henry
Gloria Goodner
Marion Ives
Michelle Brown
Popeh Chiquiti
Taryn Hazelwood
Weylyn Haynes VI
William Gemmell
August 5
Connor Jackson Jr.
Dionicio Lawrence
Jaylen Joe
August 6
Amelia Barnes
Chrystal Parsons
Shun-la-ta Smith
August 7
Georgia George Lenaya Pondelick
Samantha Johnson
August 8
Aiden Eller
Alyssa Mabe
Annabel Riggins
Cecile Hansen
John Mabe
Victor Sanchez
August 9
Averie Iseminger
Bennie (Bj) Armstrong
James Bradwell
Kaitlyn Mills
Ka-lene Williams
Taliyah Ledesma
August 10
Amy Sterling
Arlene McElroy
James Duckett
Robert Rubeck Jr.
August 11
Cisse Trawally
Dallas Hill
Larry Jones
Rosealynn Alexander
August 12
Hailee Hess
Napesis Williams
Robert Alexander IV
August 13
Abagail Whitehead
Cassondra Shelby
Levi Doyle
Mykai Hayes
Nicolas Purser
Nicole Mendez
Yanawas Tom
August 14
Geronimo Jones
Janet Leonard
Judith McConnell
Justin Purser
Yah-will-ah Ives
August 15
Dawn Forsman
Dustin Nichols
Everett Power III
Kal’el Jones
Michael Rogers Jr.
Rylee Hommel
August 16
Christine Schutzer
Leloni Boultier
Owen Goodson
August 17
Ivy Berry
Jackson Holmes
Lea McMillan Sr.
MacKenzie Boyle
Willard Williams
August 18
Andrew Joe
Javarie Ford
Joanne Collins
Mireia Virella
August 19
Alexandria Boyd
James Forsman
August 20
AnthonyAdams
Lawson Dumford
Perseus Miller
Ronald Purser Sr.
August 21
Bryan Gladstone
Casey Leva
Chelsea Netterville
Timothy Beckwith
William Nellenbach Jr.
August 22
Alyssa Napoleon
Anthony Rose
Jasmine Keller
Julia Widen
Loretta Ives
Shelby Bullock
August 23
Cassandra McManamon
Olivia George
Shenowah Purser
August 24
Jonathan Day
Kiana Moss
August 25
Bobby Pondelick
Ethan Alexander
Kyson Oakman
Mariya Neal
Porter Luna
August 26
Jacob Adams
Shane Crowell
August 27
Jaylene Ogle
Teylor Ives
August 28
Avia Davis
Daniel Covarrubias
Mable Price
Tatiana Fontes-Lawrence
Vernon Vollenweider
Zoie Davis
August 29
Dawson Berg
August 30
Patricia Johnson
Shaylene Jefferson
August 31
Annette West
Patrick Murray
Taylor Napoleon
William George
AUG PROMOTIONS 2025
Chief Seattle Days
