Suquamish News - Aug 2023

Volume 23

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August 2023

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Special

Tribal Journey & Chief Seattle Days Visitors’ Guide Inside!

Elders Beach reopens! - p3

Summer School fun - p4

Tribal grads honored - p15

Suquamish News

2 | August 2023

Suquamish.nsn.us

Community Calendar Meetings

Elders Council meets at the Elders Lodge the third Tuesday of the month, 2-4pm. Contact Della or Melissa at (360) 394-8417 for details.

Suquamish Tribal Council meets Aug. 14 & 28.Agenda and links sent via Weekly Update & SUN Texts.

PME Board meets Aug. 16 at 9am.

Contact Emily Sato at emilysato@ clearwatercasino.com by 5pm the day prior for WebEx link if you would to attend virtually.

Suquamish Museum Board meets the third Thursday of every month at 10-11:30am at the Museum Education Room. For more info contact (360) 394-8499.

Suquamish Seafoods Board meets online Aug. 15. Contact Shanel Carlson at (360) 394-8512 for details.

Suquamish Tribal Gaming Comm. meets Aug. 8 & 22 at 9:30-11am at the Suquamish Museum. Contact Angela Brainerd (360) 394-8652 for details.

Community Events

Suquamish Museum Celebrates the Photography of Rich Demain This new exhibit showcasing the work of our own Suquamish Tribal Elder is now open. In honor of Tribal Canoe Journey, enjoy complimentary admission July 28 & 29.

Military Appreciation Day at the Clearwater Casino & Resort is held the first Saturday of each month.

Sponsored by PME & Suquamish Warriors, veterans and active duty military enjoy exclusive hourly drawing from 4-8pm. For more information contact Bill Gemmell at (360) 536-0007.

Credit Retrieval Classes Now through Aug. 24, Suquamish Education Dept. is holding summer classes for students from tribal households, grades 10-12.

To apply, contact Trish Chargualaf at (360) 394-8645 or tchargualaf@ suquamish.nsn.us.

Suquamish Warriors meets the first Tuesday of every month at 5:30pm at the Suquamish Warriors Vet Center.

Getting Ready for the Journey - Canoe families from across the Suquamish tribal community have been out on the water getting ready for the Tribal Journey to Muckleshoot. (Photo by Jon Anderson)

On the Cover ...

Two big events return to Suquamish in the coming weeks!

First, Suquamish Tribe is excited to welcome visitors to our shores for Tribal Canoe Journey from July 28-30, just before the final pull to Muckleshoot.

Chief Seattle Days comes next as the tribe celebrates our ancestral leader and living culture Aug 18-20.

See our special 4-page pullout inside for all the details for both events.

(Photos by Jon Anderson)

Suquamish News

Suquamish Tribal Council

Published monthly by the Suquamish Tribe: 18490 Suquamish Way, Suquamish, WA 98392

Leonard Forsman

Chairman

Josh Bagley

Vice-Chair

Email us at: communications@suquamish.nsn.us Send letters to: Suquamish News Editor, PO Box 498, Suquamish, WA 98392-0498

Irene Carper

Secretary

Denita Holmes

Treasurer

Letters should include the writer’s full name, address, and home telephone and may be edited for clarity and space.

All photo submissions must be made in JPG or PDF form, with resolution of 300 dpi or more.

Rich Purser

Member

Sammy Mabe

Member

Luther Mills, Jr.

Member

Production Staff Leonard Forsman Catherine Edwards Sarah van Gelder Jon Anderson JoAnn Joe Georgia Browne

Editor-in-Chief Executive Editor Managing Editor News Editor Photography/Design 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.

Reproduction of Suquamish News, in whole or in part, without written permission from the Suquamish Tribe is strictly prohibited.

Suquamish News

Suquamish.nsn.us

August 2023 | 3

Community

Construction begins on new Enetai Townhomes development The Suquamish Tribe gathered July 21 to break ground in a ceremony celebrating the start of construction for a new $9.5 million townhomes development that will provide homes to some 20 tribal members and their families.

A short walk from the Tribal Administration Building and the new Healing House health clinic, the neighborhood is being built just off Division Avenue, where Kaleetan Lane meets Enetai Lane.

In a first condo-style housing project for the tribe, the neighborhood will be built across four main buildings that will each face into a central green space common area.

The vast majority of the townhomes will be two-story units, with 17 units equipped with a living room, dining room, kitchen on the ground floor, and bedrooms on the second story. The remaining three units will be single-story ADA accessible homes.

All units would be side-to-side with no one living above or below, and each will have a deck or patio in the back as well as a front porch off the main entry.

Elders Beach Reopens!

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ore than 100 Suquamish tribal members – including 44 Tribal Elders – gathered on Chico Bay at Erlands Point July 17 to celebrate the reopening of Elders Beach.

In addition to the Elders, dozens of volunteer diggers, along with staff from the tribe’s Fisheries Dept. and Suquamish Seafoods crew, gathered under bright and breezy summer skies for the inaugural reopening dig hauling in more than 8,000 pounds of Manila clams.

Digging at Elders Beach, one of the only shoreline areas managed by the tribe easily accessible to Elders, had been closed since 2020 after monitoring discovered unsafe levels of bacteria due to neglected septic tanks from nearby homes.

Even before the area was closed, experts with the Tribe’s Shellfish Program were hard at work with Kitsap Health District officials identifying pollution sources and eventually helping facilitate mitigation efforts.

All that hard work paid off with the July dig, the first of several planned in the coming months.

By Jon Anderson

(Photos by Tiffany Royal)

Suquamish News

4 | August 2023

Suquamish.nsn.us

Community

Suquamish youth hone basketball skills with The Give Back Project

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Suquamish Summer School Infusing cultural creativity and Native knowledge, Suquamish Summer School put the fun back into summer learning this year for dozens of tribal community youth July 10-25.

Provided by the Education Dept., with the help of many tribal government staff and leaders, Summer School was based at the House of Awakened Culture with fun field trips across the reservation.

uquamish Sports & Rec hosted a youth basketball camp provided by The Give Back Project, led by tribal member George Hill III. During the three-day camp, which ran June 18-20 at the Fitness Center, youth from 3rd grade through high school were coached by Hill, as well as several of his former and current clients who play all levels of basketball.

“Our youth learned so much in this camp, they worked on ball handling, footwork, form shooting, attacking the rim, and playing good low defense,” said Sports & Rec coach Magdalena Turrieta.

The techniques honed in this camp will help the young athletes to move forward in their basketball careers, whether it is rec ball, high school ball or even college-level ball. Our youth were very fortunate to have had this opportunity to work with The Give Back Project, she added.

“We appreciate all the skills, patience, enthusiasm and knowledge George brought here, to his

home, to share with our youth. Our Suquamish youth loved every moment of the camp. We look forward to working with The Give Back Project in the future,” said Turrieta.

Sports & Recreation teams up with Kingston Kings

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he Kingston Kings Youth Select Baseball Team sponsored a free fundamentals baseball camp July 6, for Suquamish youth grades K-5 at the Fitness Center Ballfield.

Some 35 youth attend the event.

“We would like to thank the King’s baseball teams for giving back to our community,” said Sports &

Recreation Director Craig Miller. “The day was filled with fielding, hitting, base running and ended with the youth selecting teams and playing a game.

We are looking forward to working the Kitsap Kings baseball club again in the near future.”

For more information please contact kingstonkingsbaseball@gmail.com

Suquamish News

Suquamish.nsn.us

August 2023 | 5

Health & Wellness

Tribal community mothers speak to the power of breastfeeding Native Breastfeeding Week is Aug. 8-14

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hen Shallee Baker was pregnant with her first child more than 10 years ago, she thought there was no way she would breastfeed her newborn.

“It was weird to me, because I was raised in a society that didn’t support it,” says Baker. But all that changed when she attended a tribal community training with nutrition Shallee Baker expert and breastfeeding advocate Camie Jae Goldhammer.

“The way she educated us on breastfeeding was inspirational,” says Baker. Goldhammer, an enrolled member of the Sisseton–Wahpeton Nation, is a clinical social worker, lactation consultant, and founder of the Native American Breastfeeding Coalition of Washington.

“The foods you eat now are forming the taste buds of your granddaughter as you breastfeed your daughter,” Baker remembers Goldhammer telling the class. “It really got me thinking about how what we do truly does affect the next seven generations. I left that training with no doubt in my mind that I was going to breastfeed my baby.”

Ten years later, as she breastfeeds her fifth child and helps other new moms as a Maternal Infant Home Health Visitor for the Marion Forsman-Boushie Early Learning Center, she’s more convinced than ever that naturally nourishing children plays a powerful role in strengthening babies’ bodies and building healthy bonds.

Decolonizing motherhood With Native Breastfeeding Week set for Aug. 8-14, 2023, part of National Breastfeeding Month, Baker and other tribal community mothers are lending their voices to encourage others.

Native Breastfeeding is an act of defiance to the colonial systems and their imposed norms, as well as a resilience of culture and body sovereignty, no matter the length of your experience, say advocates. In decolonizing practices of motherhood, Native mothers can promote food sover-

eignty, body sovereignty, and the healing of the next generation.

“I support breastfeeding because it helps me embrace and trust my body’s incredible capabilities. Witnessing my body nourish and sustain my baby’s growth gives me a sense of empowerment, reminding me of the amazing journey of motherhood,” says Lehua Fontes, who with her partner Suquamish tribal member Steve Adams, has seven Suquamish children.

“Breastfeeding allows me to embrace my role as a nurturer and caretaker,” she says. “It’s a beautiful way to comfort and soothe my baby, offering them not just food but also warmth, security, and the reassurance that I am always there for them, providing love and support.”

Indeed, there are numerous health benefits to breastfeeding for both month and child, says

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great benefits of breastfeeding

1. Breast milk is the best source of nutrition for most babies. As the baby grows, the mother’s breast milk will change to meet her baby’s nutritional needs.

2. Breastfeeding can help protect babies against illnesses and diseases, including asthma, obesity, Type 1 diabetes, and sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).

Breastfed babies are also less likely to have ear infections and stomach bugs.

3. Breast milk shares antibodies from the mother with her baby. These antibodies help babies develop a strong immune system and protect them from illnesses.

4. Mothers can breastfeed anytime and anywhere, feeding on the go without worrying about mixing formula or prepare bottles. Breastfeeding also provides a source of comfort for babies whose normal routine is disrupted.

5. Breastfeeding can reduce the mother’s risk of breast and ovarian cancer, type 1 diabetes, and high blood pressure.

Mackenzie Quick, left, and Lehualani Fontes encourage all moms who can to breastfeed their babies.

Suquamish Tribe’s nutrition specialist Rachel Parsons. While not all mothers are able and not all babies are willing, but for those that can, Parsons says breastfeeding lowers babies’ risk of ear infections, bacterial meningitis, asthma, eczema, Type 1 diabetes, and Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS), and infant mortality.

It also boosts mothers’ recovery from childbirth while also lowering the risk of several types of cancers, cardiovascular disease, and postpartum depression.

“Breastfeeding empowers me as a mother to

provide my baby with a natural immunity boost.

Knowing that I am passing on essential antibodies helps protect my little one from illnesses and builds a strong foundation for their future health,” says Suquamish Tribe IT specialist Mackenzie Quick.

“I’m so thankful to work for a tribe that not only understands this, but actively supports it.”

For more information and help with breastfeeding resources, contact the Suquamish Tribe WIC specialist Katie Ladner at KLadner@suquamish. nsn.us.

By Jon Anderson

6 | August 2023

Suquamish News

Suquamish.nsn.us

Tribal Government

Chairman’s Report Public Health, a program within the University of Washington School of Medicine, presented three awards to leaders within the Suquamish Tribe.

I was honored to accept the Seven Directions Indigenous Public Health Award for Tribal Governance for work in helping establish and support health programs here in Suquamish, while Brittany Bakken and Robin Little Wing Sigo were recognized for hosting Leadership Training at Kiana Lodge this summer. The Seven Directions staff, led by Maya Magarati, presented the awards in Council Chambers.

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he Suquamish Tribe continues to host a variety of conferences, meetings and gatherings here on our beautiful ancestral lands for a mix of visitors and dignitaries.

Among the latest was the Tribal Wellness and Resiliency Gathering at Suquamish Clearwater Resort. The Washington State Department of Health sponsored the gathering, focused on suicide prevention by supporting partnerships with tribal governments and urban Indian programs. I was honored to welcome the group to our reservation before our own Suquamish tribal member Calina Lawrence provided a moving cultural presentation.

I also welcomed the Washington State Association of Public Utility Districts at a reception held at our resort during their annual convention.

Our local PUD Commissioner Debbi Lester introduced me and keynote speaker State Representative Drew Hansen.

The Washington State Department of Natural Resources, led by Commissioner of Public Lands Hillary Franz, held their tribal summit here at the Suquamish Clearwater Casino Resort. Tribal leaders and staff from around the state attended the meeting and expressed the need for focus on salmon recovery in managing our state’s forests and improving access on state forestlands for tribal hunting and gathering activities. We also discussed working together to open more tribal and state geoduck harvest areas.

Seven Directions: A Center for Indigenous

Remembering friends & family, past & present The Suquamish Foundation hosted a film about the life of American Indian Movement activist Dennis Banks at the House of Awakened Culture. Dennis gave one of his last speeches here in Suquamish at Chief Seattle Days 2017 before he passed on. Thanks to all who came to see the film about his historic life.

We also said good luck to two of our tribal employees, Lena Purser-Maloney and Dennis Lewarch. Both have contributed to our cultural resurgence. Lena helped grow awareness and use of our Lushootseed language, while Dennis documented much of our past that was hidden away in archives and libraries and shared it with us and our neighbors in numerous public presentations.

Speaking of research, I was able to virtually attend an intertribal meeting with the Catholic Archbishop about boarding school records. They have records associated with the St. George’s Industrial School in Federal Way that operated between 1888 and 1937. Suquamish students did attend this school. The Sisters of St. Francis of Philadelphia operated the facility.

The Tribal Council took their turn at Spirit Week for the tribal government offices as part of our Human Resources Department’s initiative to contribute to employee retention and recruitment.

Thanks to our Council Executive Assistant Amanda Carper, with help from Rosie Bayes, in planning our week that culminated in a breakfast for staff at

the House of Awakened Culture.

Representing the tribe and our interests I continue to serve on the Salmon Homecoming Planning Committee and we expect to have a full agenda of activities for the event planned for September 21-23 at Pier 62 in Seattle.

I joined Vice-Chairman Josh Bagley in welcoming U.S. Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg during a press conference announcing a large federal grant to the Port of Bremerton to repair the aging and crumbling Port Orchard Marina breakwater.

I joined Senator Patty Murray, Senator Maria Cantwell, Governor Jay Inslee, Representative Derek Kilmer and Port of Bremerton CEO Jim Rothlin in hosting Secretary Buttigieg, who acknowledge our tribal fishing fleet and our longtime ancestral presence in the area in his remarks.

I also had the great honor to attend the White House State Dinner held for the Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi along with my wife Jana.

This was a great honor and an amazing experience and I am indebted to the support of our tribal council and the citizens of the Suquamish Tribe for supporting me over the years resulting in this great recognition.

Thanks to the President and First Lady Biden for the invitation, of course. While in Washington D.C. I met with members of Congress in both the House and Senate to express our thanks for past legislation and make the case for our future needs.

Advocating for tribal education We have also been involved in advocating for a culturally based education for our tribal students in our local schools. We met with representatives of the North Kitsap School District to discuss our concerns about the resources dedicated to tribal education in the district and our concerns about online racist activity.

Meanwhile, we hosted our own tribal Graduate Honoring at the House of Awakened Culture where we recognized our high school and college graduates. Elese Washines (Yakama), who is a renowned educator, gave the keynote speech.

(Continued next page)

Suquamish.nsn.us

Suquamish News

August 2023 | 7

Tribal Government

(Chairman’s Report, continued) I met with University of Washington staff, in my role as regent, tribal leader, and alumni, to review the fundraising plan for completion of the tribal-focused Intellectual House, after securing $9.5 million from the state.

The university’s Board of Regents held their annual retreat in Eatonville where we received updates on finances, staff recruitment and retention, student housing, medicine and several other subjects. The Evans School of Public Policy and Governance Dean Jodi Sandfort and Tracie Stevens (Tulalip) visited Suquamish to discuss how the school could introduce more information about tribal governments and tribal sovereignty to their students who often go on to work for state and local governments as policy representatives.

We have come up with some intriguing proposals that we hope to incorporate into their course curriculum.

Protecting our environment Natural resource protection is still a challenge.

We are working with the state and the timber industry on an agreement to better protect streams from logging activities. Expanded buffers are necessary and we continue to strive to find an agreement with the industry that better protects the salmon habitat. A consulting firm is working with both sides to improve communication and find common ground.

We also met virtually with the Washington State Department of Transportation to discuss the Gorst Transportation Corridor project that has recently received funding for further study and engineering. We expressed the need for protection of the waters of Sinclair Inlet and Gorst Creek, our annual salmon fishery, and cultural resources in the corridor.

Tribal Council representatives and staff met with new Kitsap County Commissioner Christine Rolfes. We are all very familiar with her great work as a state Senator on tribal issues and local transportation funding. Christine is looking forward to working with council on issues regarding growth management and protection of our natural environment.

The National Congress of American Indians held their monthly Executive Council Meeting to discuss our latest initiatives and plan our upcoming annual gathering in New Orleans. NCAI continues to rebrand itself and has a new logo and

Suquamish Tribe Extends Condolences for the passing of

Chairman Jeromy Sullivan

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he Suquamish Tribe extends its condolences to the Port Gamble S’Klallam Tribe and their tribal council on the passing of their Chairman Jeromy Sullivan.

Jeromy was well known here in Suquamish as he spent part of his youth living here on the Port Madison Reservation and was part Suquamish.

His leadership style was reflective of his life experiences as a fisherman, athlete, and student of his cultural ways.

He loved his Port Gamble S’Klallam people and always smiled when talking about his elders and retelling their stories.

He fought hard to defend the treaty rights of his people and was always willing to join forces with us and other tribes when we had a common

challenge.

We worked together for many years to assist Kitsap County in the eventual acquisition of North Kitsap Heritage Park from the successors to the Pope and Talbot Mill in Port Gamble, preserving hundreds of acres of open space for future generations.

He worked hard to educate the public about the history of his people and supported the cultural and economic resurgence of his tribe.

Jeromy was honest, open-minded, fair, and positive, yet passionate in his mission to secure a just and prosperous future, not only his beloved Port Gamble S’Klallam Tribe, but for all of us in Indian Country.

We will miss his sense of humor, his quiet endurance, and his creative spirit. We extend our sympathy to his family and his children and pray for them to have strength during this difficult time.

Respectfully, Leonard Forsman

is initiating new public relations outreach. Native Americans in Philanthropy held their tribal advisors meeting to inform tribal leaders about opportunities for natural resource protection funding from private foundations.

The Major League All-Star Game was held in Seattle July 11. The Friends of Waterfront Seattle interviewed me and Marilyn Wandrey about the Suquamish team that went to Japan in 1921 for a special video shown during All-Star Week.

Welcome Canoe Families!

Finally, I would like to welcome all the Tribal Journey canoe families who will be arriving in Suquamish July 28 for the weekend, before we all set out for the final pull to Alki Beach and hosting in Muckleshoot. It’s a great feeling to have this event after the long wait through the pandemic.

Thanks to all who have stepped forward to support the journey!

Enjoy your summer and see you at Chief Seattle Days, Aug 18-20!

By Leonard Forsman Suquamish Tribe Chairman

Tribal Council Schedule Tribal Council meets August 14 & 28. Watch for SUN alerts and Weekly Updates for details.

8 | August 2023

Suquamish News

Suquamish.nsn.us

Health & Wellness

Build big healthy changes with the power of small new habits

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ittle lifestyle changes can make a big improvements to our health, says Healing House physician Dr. Alex Kraft.

“There are many small ways to build a little more activity into our daily lives, and over time they can really make a big difference in quality of life,” says Kraft.

Even just making it a habit of parking further away in parking lots means every day you’re taking more steps. Studies have shown an average of 7,000 steps a day will significantly reduce your chances of getting cancer or diabetes, while significantly boosting overall health, including helping with weight loss.

“So, consider taking the stairs instead of the elevator, or enjoying a short walk every evening, or exploring on your lunch break,” says Kraft.

Physical activity is just one of five areas where small, consistent habits can make a difference, says Kraft. Consider what small changes you can make in these categories: Eating whole foods Eating whole foods is critical for maintaining good health as they provide essential nutrients, fiber, and antioxidants. One simple habit change could be to try replacing that lunchtime bag of chips with fresh fruit or raw nuts.

Drinking enough water Experts say we should consume at least eight cups – that’s 64 ounces – of water per day to maintain proper hydration. Try carrying a reusable water bottle with you throughout the day and see if that makes it easier to increase your water intake.

Getting enough sleep Most adults require 7-9 hours of sleep per night to allow the body to repair and rejuvenate. To establish a healthy sleep routine, try creating a relaxing bedtime ritual, such as reading a book or writing in a gratitude journal, to signal your body that it’s time to unwind and prepare for sleep.

Managing stress Try five minutes of quiet, mindful breathing every day. Mindfulness apps like Headspace and Calm can be great way to start learning new ways

to cope with and regulate our stress levels, worries, and anxieties.

Getting physical “While it’s great to get dedicated exercise and workouts, our bodies and minds generally do better with any increase in physical activity,” says Kraft. Walking more is one way, but there are all kinds of ways to get moving more. Even just standing up and stretching every hour throughout the day has been shown to boost health and overall wellbeing.

“I love to be out on the water, so I’ve been kayaking more lately,” say Kraft. “It’s one way I’ve found that I can really put into practice what I tell my patients every day. If you love working in the garden, try doing more of that. Anything that gets your heart beating a little harder on daily basis will make a difference.”

By Jon Anderson

Healing House now open to more tribal members Suquamish Tribe Healing House is now serving patients in the wider tribal community. In addition to Suquamish tribal members and their immediate families, the clinic is now expanding primary care services to enrolled members of other federally recognized tribes.

To learn more, call (360) 394-1350.

Chief Seattle Days Royalty Pageant Serving as CSD Royalty is a meaningful opportunity for Suquamish youth that promotes community involvement, kind and respectful choices, and representation in important spaces.

All positions are gender inclusive.

Senior Chief Seattle Days (Age 13-18) Junior Chief Seattle Days (Age 8-12) Little Chief Seattle Days (Age 4-7) Application Deadline – Mon July 31 Registration is open to Suquamish Tribal member descendent youth.

Apply here: www.bit.ly/3Dp9jCO

FITNESS CHALLENGE WINNERS! Congrats to our June Challenge Winners!

2K Row for Time, Cash Prizes Mens: Jimmy Lenard Womens: Lauren Kuuipo Teens 13-17: Tatiana Jarom 5-8 yrs old: Sophia Jackson H Jackson S 9-12 yrs old: Tyzaiah Braiden Baylee Don’t miss out on our August Challenges!

Greetings and blessings to all our esteemed 2023 Tribal Journey visitors

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elcome to Suquamish! We are excited to host you here as we prepare together for our final pull to Muckleshoot.

We hope you find this quick reference guide useful during your stay with us. Additional help is always available at our information booth. And please consider yourself invited to join us here again next month as we celebrate Chief Seattle Days Aug 18-20.

In the meantime, let us honor our shared heritage, celebrate our living culture, and forge ever-stronger bonds that will echo across the Salish Sea.

Thank you and welcome!

CONTACTS:

Suquamish Hosting: Tina Jackson (360) 394-8455 tjackson@suquamish.nsn.us

Muckleshoot Hosting: Stephanie James (253) 876-2994 | stephanie. james@muckleshoot.nsn.us

Schedule of Events FRI JULY 28

12:00pm – 4:30pm (ish) Canoes land in Suquamish 5:00pm – Dinner 6:00pm – Skippers Mtg 7:00pm – Protocol

SAT JULY 29 7:00am–9:00am Breakfast 5:00pm – Dinner 6:00pm – Protocol

SUN JULY 30

7:00am – To-Go Breakfast 12:00pm – Canoes land at Alki Beach

23 D

5

First Ave

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An g e line A ve

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House of Awakened Culture

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6B

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NE Geneva St

Park Blvd

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A

F Significant Sites

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Totten Rd

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e Av e n eli

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8 .7 miles

Camping Areas

Poulsbo

Canoe Journey

1.

4.4 miles

Camping and Site Map

Bainbridge Ferry

Scan the QR Code for specific Campsite info

7.5 miles

9 .8 miles, Sandy Hook Rd 10 2 miles, Creative Drive 305

A - Canoe Landing B - House of Awakened Culture C - Chief Sealth Gravesite D - Suquamish Museum E - Old Man House Beach F - Suquamish Dock

Clearwater Casino

305

Suquamish Village Campsite 18490 Suquamish Way NE 2. Suquamish Museum Campsite 6861 South St 3. Legacy Park Campsite - 6937 NE Totem Ln 4. 1st Ave Campsite - 18513 Augusta Ave 5. Suquamish Shores Campsites 6968 NE Enetai Ln 6. HOAC Campsite - 7235 NE Pkwy 7. Suquamish Elementary School 18950 Park Blvd NE 8. Totten Campsite 5055 NE Totten Rd, Poulsbo 9. Old Tribal Center Campsite 15836 Sandy Hook Road NE, Poulsbo 10. CKA Campsite 16301 Creative Dr NE, Poulsbo

FRI AUGUST 18 SAT AUGUST 19 SUN AUGUST 20 Greetings!

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e are overjoyed to extend our heartfelt welcome to all visitors as we gather once again for the annual Chief Seattle Days in Suquamish! After three years of challenging times, we are thrilled that our festival is once again open to the public.

As we commemorate and celebrate the legacy of our ancestral leader Chief Seattle, we are delighted to bring back the much-anticipated intertribal canoe races and softball tournaments. In addition, we are proud to introduce the "Coastal Sharing" and “Coastal Jam” gatherings, an authentic representation of our region's culture, replacing the Pow Wow that found its roots with the plains tribes.

The heartbeat of our traditions continues with the introduction of Sla-hal stick games to Chief Seattle Days, another step towards preserving and

cherishing our ancestral practices. We honor our rich heritage while also embracing the ever-evolving aspects of our modern living culture by continuing to respect and celebrate diversity. To this end, we are thrilled to announce that our royalty pageant is now a gender-neutral celebration, embracing all identities with open arms.

Throughout this joyous celebration, we invite you to immerse yourselves in our Suquamish way of life, savoring the melodies of our traditional songs, relishing the flavors of our Indigenous cuisine, and engaging in meaningful conversations that bridge the past and the future.

Let Chief Seattle Days 2023 be a testament to the resilience of our community and a celebration of good neighbors coming together in a good way once again.

Thank you and welcome!

Schedule of Events - At a Glance CHIEFSEATTLEDAYS.ORG

SAT AUGUST 19

Softball Tourney..................9am-7pm Gravesite Honoring.........10am-11am Horseshoe Tourney......11:30am-5pm Elders Walk..........11:30am-12:30pm Coastal Sharing..............10am-12pm Salmon Bake..............................12pm Salmon Bake...........................12pm Cornhole.......................12:30pm-6pm Coastal Sharing.................1pm-4pm Coastal Sharing...................1pm-6pm Royalty Pageant................4pm-6pm Canoe Races........................1pm-7pm Softball Tourney..............6pm-10pm Sla-hal Stick Games.........6pm-10pm Coastal Jam.....................6pm-10pm Teen Dance........................8pm-10pm

FRI AUGUST 18

SUN AUGUST 20

Fun Run Registration..........8am-9am 5K Fun Run..................9am-10:30am Softball Tourney...................9am-4pm Coastal Sharing...............10am-12pm Horseshoe Tourney......11:30am-5pm Salmon Bake..............................12pm Canoe Races......................12pm-5pm Sla-hal Stick Games............1pm-5pm

Key Event Locations CHIEF SEATTLE GRAVESITE HONORING Sat, August 19 @ 10am 7076 NE South St, Suquamish COASTAL SHARING Fri, Aug 18 @ 10am | Sat, Aug 19 @ 1pm Sun, Aug 20 @ 10am 7235 NE Pkwy, Suquamish (HOAC) COASTAL JAM Sat, August 19 @ 6pm 7235 NE Pkwy, Suquamish (HOAC)

CO-ED SOFTBALL TOURNAMENT CANOE RACES Sat, Aug 19 @ 1pm | Sun, Aug 20 @ 12pm Fri, Aug 18 @ 6pm | Sat, Aug 19 @ 9am Sun, Aug 20 @ 9am 7235 NE Pkwy, Suquamish (HOAC) 5283 Totten Road, Poulsbo SLA-HAL (STICK GAMES) Sat, Aug 19 @ 6pm | Sun, Aug, 20 @ 1pm 7235 NE Pkwy, Suquamish (HOAC) TEEN DANCE Sat, Aug 19 @ 8pm 5243 Totten Rd, Poulsbo ELDERS WALK Sat, Aug 19 @ 11:30am 7235 NE Pkwy, Suquamish (HOAC)

SALMON BAKE Fri, Aug 18, Sat Aug 19, Sun, Aug 20 @12pm 5K FUN RUN 7235 NE Pkwy, Suquamish (HOAC) Sun, Aug 20 @ 9am 7235 NE Pkwy, Suquamish (HOAC) ROYALTY PAGEANT Fri, August 18 @ 4pm 7235 NE Pkwy, Suquamish (HOAC)

CORNHOLE TOURNAMENT Sat, Aug 19 @ 12:30pm 5243 Totten Rd, Poulsbo HORSESHOE TOURNAMENT Sat, Aug 19 @ 11:30am Sun, Aug 20 @ 11:30am 5243 Totten Rd, Poulsbo

For full event descriptions and contact information for each Chief Seattle Days event, please visit www.

ChiefSeattleDays.org or scan the QR code.

Suquamish News

Suquamish.nsn.us

August 2023 | 13

Government

Catherine’s Column

H

onorable People of the Clear Saltwater!

There is a lot of excitement here as we look forward to getting out on the water and hosting a stop on

Tribal Canoe Journey!

Being on the water and paddling is the best medicine in the world – that might be why we saw some Seahawks out there trying! It takes strength, perseverance, teamwork, and love to be in a canoe, or support a canoe family.

Suquamish will be a final stop on the journey before the landing in Muckleshoot. Our pullers and support crews will be traveling to the Lummi Reservation to be part of the paddle to Suquamish and then on to Alki Beach for the final landing. Our Culture Department and Culture Committee have been busy planning and preparing, working hard to make sure we are able to make the journey and welcome the thousands of pullers and support crew members who will be coming to our shores to rest!

I hope you will be part of it! There will be songs and dances, cedar on the bows of the canoes, tired pullers, support boats, proud family members, people setting up camp, good food, and children out enjoying the sun! This year is special as we will join together once again, the first time since the pandemic hit. (Visit www.suquamish.nsn.us for updates.)

Suquamish hosting is well known, with hospitality that is highly esteemed by many! Wonderful memories are created on our shores, the happy smiles, the genuine care and concern, the great food. All will feel welcome, and all will feel the warmth of this tribe and community. The People of the Clear Salt Water’s kindness is contagious. And did I mention the food! When you are tired from pulling, camping, chasing kids, or working all day, you will be refueled with light, positive energy, and friendship – and did I mention good food!?

There are not words to explain the medicine that comes with Journey. We remember where we came from and look forward to our future as our children climb aboard and learn the ways of the ancestors!

Not long after Journey, we will host Chief Seattle Days. My hands are up to the hard-working people in the Culture Department and Cultural Committee for organizing both events!

Infusing culture into everything Let’s talk about culture a bit, because we did stand up our new Culture Department and now have a Director, Suquamish tribal member Kate Ahvakana.

Sometimes people think of culture as language, and song and dance, and it is those things but so much more. Culture is everything we do. It’s how we greet each other, how we speak, eat, and live. It encompasses the values we live by. A culture is a living, breathing thing, and it shouldn’t be thought of as something in the past. It’s in the way we say good morning, it’s in our everyday rituals. With the help of the Culture Department, we are going to continue to grow in Suquamish culture. We are happy to have this final piece of the reorganization in place so we can learn what it means to infuse culture into everything.

Let me tell you a little bit about why I am so excited about culture. I am a Tlingit from Juneau, Alaska. I serve on my Tribal Council, but before I got there, I was a cultural teacher of youth. My good friend started a children’s dance group with the mission of teaching young people pride in who they are. Along with teaching our youth Tlingit and Haida song and dance, we taught them cultural values.

To raise money, they would do garbage pickups or be servers at many local events where they learned to serve their elders and clean up the community. We showed up once a week for practice, working with the kids on weekends in the summer.

We did this for more than 25 years before we handed the group down to our graduates, who went off to college and came back home, and are now following in our footsteps, teaching the youth culture, song and dance, and incorporating language.

Anyone working with kids knows it’s not always easy. We lost two young people to suicide. I know how hard it is to manage your own grief while getting 100 children through their pain. These children became a support system for each other, and today many of them still support each other.

Infusing culture works! Your Tribal Council knows that and included it in the reorganization plan for the government. It’s part of why I enjoy being a part of Team Suquamish!

Can’t wait to see you all at Journey!

By Catherine Edwards Suquamish Tribe Executive Director

Briefs from Tribal Government Tribal Fishers: Sign up now for Elliott Bay Incentive Program Suquamish Tribe Fisheries will have a sign-up list through Aug. 24 to get on the rotation for fishing Elliott Bay. Fishers can sign up by providing name, phone number, boat number, owned or leased, net size.

Your boat must be at least 16-feet long to be eligible to fish this Incentive Fishery.

All contracts will need to be signed prior to fishing. In order to be part of the fishery beginning Sept. 11, contracts will need to be signed by Sept 6.

Rotation schedule, along with monitor phone numbers and points of contact, will be listed in the window outside the Human Services and Fisheries building for review Aug. 25.

Tribe seeks tribal member contractors for fisheries monitoring The Suquamish Tribe Fisheries Department is accepting applications for 2-3 experienced boat drivers for contractual positions monitoring tribal fisheries in Elliott Bay, North Hood Canal, and Mid-Puget Sound this fall.

These contact positions are available to Suquamish tribal members only. Deadline to apply is Aug 24. Position will be 24 hours per day, five days per week for 3-4 weeks starting Sept. 10, 2023, and then on an as-needed basis until approximately Nov 18.

For more details and information on how to apply go to the Careers page on the Suquamish Tribe website or call Jon Oleyar at (360) 340-0325.

Lake Leland Road Closure Planning to visit Lake Leland? Snow Creek Road will be closed at milepost 0.84 now until at least mid-September.

During the closure, access to Lake Leland will be via the detour route following Lords Lake Loop Road.

14 | August 2023

Suquamish News

Suquamish.nsn.us

In Memoriam

Steve Old Coyote Remembered at Celebration of Life Service

S

teven Roscoe Old Coyote (Cree) died on July 5, 2023, at his home in Suquamish on the Port Madison Indian Reservation at the age of 79, surrounded by family. Steve was a lifelong activist, supporter and protector of Native people, no matter the tribe or nation they were from.

Steve was born in Mankato, Minnesota, on September 8, 1943, and arrived in Suquamish in 1981 along with his wife, Rita Old Coyote, their son James, and their daughter Jessi.

Janaka and Alyssum were born after the family moved to Suquamish.

Steve spent many years working to revive culture and tradition in Suquamish. Most importantly, he prayed for it, and in those powerful prayers he planted that seed and lit that fire that was needed.

He was a part of bringing back canoes, creating traditional sweats, growing culture and pride, all from love -- love for Indian people.

“Steve Old Coyote contributed greatly to the cultural resurgence of the Suquamish Tribe,” said Suquamish Chairman Leonard Forsman. “He and key elders of the Suquamish Tribe visualized a future for our people that had been realized. More people are practicing their culture, living healthier lives and serving their families and their tribe because of his role as a counselor, spiritual adviser and ceremonial leader. The Suquamish community continues to benefit from his influence and the presence of his growing family.”

Honored at the House of Awakened Culture The House of Awakened Culture was filled to capacity, standing room only on July 8, 2023, to honor a great man’s life and legacy. Speakers and singers honored Steve and the contributions he made to many, including during the years he served on the staff of the Suquamish Tribe, where he was known for the outreach he did to Tribal youth, elders, and veterans.

Those remembering Steve Old Coyote spoke of his influence as a mentor, teacher, spiritual guide, and artist.

Frank Goes Behind was our MC and Memorial leader, traditional drum group Stronghold gave

Steve’s Prayer Grandfather, Great Spirit, father of our fathers, creator of all things, I am Indian, my spirit is Indian, and I will do that which is expected and by your will, I will take no shame to my grave.

All My Relations.

us our grounding with their final song being the AIM song, so significant to the family. Several Canoe Families shared their own rare time-honored songs, including the Williams Family, Westshore, Salish Spirit, and S’Klallams. We were also blessed with several Native American Church Peyote Songs from Danny Leonard and Tekamthi Saluskin. Plus, a rock-solid harmonica tribute from Roger Jackson.

The family asked speakers Lionel Little Eagle, Roger Jackson, Antone George, Quiltman, and Tyrone Thomas to share story and words for the family with those in attendance. The memorial photos and slide show were masterfully organized and connected in a powerful way with us all. The family made time to honor Rachel Nellenbach for the loving care she so graciously gave during the last several weeks of Steve’s life -- she treated him with such dignity.

Steve’s legacy will forever live on. His work will continue through his children and his grandchildren. Through Steve’s teachings and gifts, and through his son, James Old Coyote, Sacred Water was created, by the same love and compassion for all Natives.

Sacred Water is rooted in the teachings of Steve, promoting coastal healing within our family, and for the people: To bring our youth up in a traditional way in this modern society. To feed the spirit with good medicine. The work that Sacred Water does is love and compassion given in the humblest form. It is Coastal Healing, healing the heart, mind, and soul.

This is the legacy Steve is leaving, this is the work that will carry on in his name, by his family.

The Old Coyotes arrived in Suquamish as four, today we are standing strong at over thirty. Steve’s work and life teachings will live on for generations. The Old Coyote’s will continue on and do that which is expected. They will take no shame to their grave.

By Nina Old Coyote On behalf of the Old Coyote Family

Suquamish News

Suquamish.nsn.us

Elders

Clarence Merle (Mel) Ross Jr.

C

larence Merle (Mel) Ross Jr., a beloved member of the Suquamish Tribe from Seattle, Washington, passed away on May 27, 2023, at Methodist North in Memphis, Tennessee. Born on October 5, 1940, in Tulalip, WA, Mel was a cherished husband, father, grandfather, and friend.

Mel dedicated 20 years of his life to serving in the US Navy, where he excelled as an electronic technician. He retired from the Navy in 1980 at NAS Millington, after which he pursued his degree at State Tech Technical Institute of Memphis. Mel continued working as an electronic technician, bringing his expertise and passion to his civilian career.

In addition to his professional achievements, Mel had a wide range of hobbies that brought him joy. He was an avid supporter of the Raiders, finding excitement in watching their games.

Mel also enjoyed bowling, playing cards, fishing, chess, and Acey-deucy backgammon. However, above all, Mel’s greatest love was reserved for his cherished family and friends.

Mel is survived by his loving wife, Rizalinda (Linda) C. Ross, who stood by his side through thick and thin. He leaves behind his devoted daughter, Elizabeth D. Ross, and his beloved

Tribe honors 2023 graduates The Suquamish Tribe honored its high school and higher education graduates in a ceremony at the House of Awakened Culture June 27, hosted by the tribe’s Education Department.

The honorees were wrapped in blankets and given paddles to commemorate their accomplishment.

Noted educator and Yakima tribal member Elese Washines provided the keynote address.

The honorees included, from left to right: Kyles Gemmell, Shun-la-ta Smith, Sean Oliver, Hailee Hess, Ashton Purser, Dakota Standley, Jared Charette, Cameron Covarrubias, Pierce Peterson, Nigel Lawrence, and Kylee Manley Not pictured Christopher George-Old Coyote and Napesis Williams. (Photo by JoAnn Joe)

daughter, Maria V. Ross. His memory will also be treasured by his sons, Michael Ross and William Ross, and his caring daughter-in-law, Mary Jane B. Ross. Mel’s legacy lives on through his grandchildren, Lance K. Abero, Lonnie K. Abero, Theadora A. Ross, and Jasmine S. Ross, who will forever cherish the love and wisdom he shared.

During his lifetime, Mel experienced the pain of loss, including the passing of his father, Clarence Merle Ross Sr., his mother, Murial Dorothy Pratt, his brothers, Bill Vivian, Dick Vivian, and his sisters, Penny Brown, Darlene Melrose, and his nephew George Brown. Mel’s youngest brother, Stormy Vivian, continues to honor his memory.

Mel will also be fondly remembered by his nieces, Ivy Berry and Diane Dozier, who shared many precious moments with him. His impact on their lives and the lives of all those who knew him will never be forgotten.

As we bid farewell to Clarence Merle (Mel) Ross Jr., we celebrate his life, his accomplishments, and the memories that will forever remain in our hearts. His warm smile, kind heart, and unwavering love will continue to inspire us. May he find eternal peace in the arms of his ancestors.

August 2023 | 15

George “Joe” Isenhour George

Beloved Brother, Father and Uncle

Born November 12, 1955 Passed at home with family and loved ones June 27, 2023 You will be missed and forever in our hearts.

Suquamish News

ers

16 | August 2023

Suquamish.nsn.us

Lunchroom Menu

Eld

AUGUST 2023

Tues

Mon 1 Beverages Served Daily : Choice of 1% Milk or Lactose Free Milk Occasional substitutions may be necessary

7

y Birthda t a ion! celebr

Chicken Adobo Brown Rice Asian Blend Vegetables Tossed Salad Yogurt & Fruit Parfait B-day Cake & Ice Cream

14

8 Corn Soup w/ Ground Beef Egg Salad Sandwich Cucumber Tomato Salad Chewy Chocolate Cookie

15

Goulash (hamburger, green beans, tomatoes) Brown Rice Broccoli Salad Oat Bran Raisin Muffins Fresh Fruit

21

2 Split Pea Soup Turkey & Cheese Sandwich Cole Slaw Fresh Fruit

ast Breakfnch! for Lu

Minestrone Soup w/ Oyster Crackers Tuna Fish Sandwich Waldorf Salad Italian Ice

Thurs

Wed

Chicken Apple Crunch Salad on a Bed of Lettuce Quinoa Salad Wheat Roll SF Jello-O w/ Peaches

9 Lentil Rice Salad w/ Lettuce & Tomato Tossed Salad Wheat Roll Fresh Fruit

16 BBQ Chicken Baked Beans Kale Salad Wheat Roll Yogurt & Fruit Parfait

3

4

Tamale Pie (ground beef, vegetables, cornmeal crust) Coleslaw Fresh Fruit

10 Macaroni &

Indian Tacos w/ meat, beans, lettuce, tomato, salsa, cheese Fresh Veggie Tray Fresh Fruit

11

Cheese w/ Stewed Tomatoes Fresh Steamed Spinach Tossed Salad Corn Bread Fresh Fruit

Indian Tacos w/ meat, beans, lettuce, tomato, salsa, cheese Fresh Veggie Platter Yogurt & Fruit Parfait

17

18

Meatloaf Mashed Potatoes w/Gravy California Blend Vegetables Cucumber Tomato Salad Wheat Roll Fresh Fruit

22

23

24

Chicken Rice Salad (chicken, rice, lettuce, tomatoes & cucumber) Coleslaw Corn Bread Yogurt & Fruit Parfait

Sweet & Sour Pork Brown Rice Asian Blend Veggies Tossed Salad Wheat Roll Applesauce

Baked Chicken Scalloped Potatoes California Blend Vegetables Tossed Salad Fresh Fruit

28

29

30

31

Steak & Green Bean Casserole Brown Rice Spinach Salad w/ berries & walnuts Italian Ice

Calico Bean & Spinach Soup Turkey Sandwich w/ cheese & lettuce Fresh Veggie Tray Fresh Fruit

Beef Soft Tacos (ground beef, refried beans, cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, salsa) Spanish Rice Tossed Salad

Egg Frittata w/ veggies & cheese, served w/ salsa Oven Roasted Potatoes Applesauce Raisin Muffin Fresh Fruit

Fri

Geoduck Chowder Chef Salad w/ sunflower seeds, ham, cheese & dried cranberries Buttermilk Biscuit Fresh Fruit

25 Salmon Oven Roasted Potatoes Mixed Vegetables Carrot Apple Salad Pachado Bread Frozen Fudge Bar

Tuna Noodle Casserole Fresh Steamed Broccoli Tossed Salad Buttermilk Biscuit

Elders Kitchen: (360) 394-8407. Please call to inform the kitchen if you would like to cancel home delivery for the day.

Suquamish.nsn.us

Suquamish News

August 2023 | 17

Elders

Community

Summer Safety and Home Maintenance Tips

Corner

W

e have had a busy time this summer, finalizing the Elders Alaskan Cruise, making beaded necklaces for Canoe Journey, digging clams, and socializing in the sun.

Thanks to Diana Riggins, Dickie Johnson, Troy & Vicky Mabe, Donna Sigo, and all the others who helped make beaded necklaces, and Nita Villanueva for gifting the Elders Garden with green bell peppers.

Gathering together Foot Care Fridays are always well attended. In July, we sang “Happy Birthday” to Gene Tabafunda, and our annual visitor from Anchorage, Mitch Jerue, stopped by to say “Hi.” We chatted with Mitch about the World Eskimo Indian Olympics, and how we would love to someday have a cultural share between the Suquamish Tribe and our Alaskan Native brothers & sisters.

The summer always brings to mind gathering together outdoors with family members young and old. It is always fun to cook over fire pits, walk barefoot in the sand, eat warm berries off the bush, and learn family cultural history.

Elder Vicky Doyle reminisced that her grandfather Richard Belmont Sr. always included the children in all family traditions, and her mother Ivy Cheyney was always keen to learn from him.

Vicky was kind enough to share a delicious outdoor smoked salmon recipe, using Grandpa Belmont’s traditional techniques.

Vicky Doyle’s Pit Smoked Salmon Slice salmon fillets into 5-6” long pieces. Take a clean wheelbarrow (traditional) or a large tub, sprinkle rock salt on the bottom. Layer the salmon skin side down on the salt, sprinkle the flesh with brown sugar. Place a second layer of fish flesh side down on the brown sugar, then sprinkle the skin with salt. Continue layering salmon pieces, flesh sides facing each other with brown sugar between, and skin sides facing each other sprinkled with salt. Let sit for 12+ hours.

Meanwhile, dig a pit 3-4” deep, 2” across.

Fashion a “Smoke Shed” with three side boards (that have 1/4” holes drilled at the top) nailed together, a fourth side board will act as a door

H

ere are some summer safety tips to keep your summer trouble free.

Beat the heat • Install blinds and window shades to deflect sunlight • Check caulking on windows and doors to prevent air leaks • Have your HVAC system serviced • Ensure your system is working optimally

Suquamish Tribal Elders return to Elders Beach for the first time in three years July 17. See story on page 3. (Photo by Tiffany Royal) (screw on some hinges). A fifth board will be the “roof.” Nail wood slats on the inside of the shed to make smoking racks, making sure the first rack is about 1 1/2” up from the ground.

After salmon has cured, fill the wheelbarrow with water from a garden hose, rinse the salmon and pour off the salty sweet water. Start a fire in the pit, using cedar and dry wood, this creates a hot fire with nice coals.

After the initial fire, only add wet cedar or alder to the fire for the best smoke. Place smoke shed over the pit, lay the salmon pieces on the racks inside the shed, then close the door.

Smoke for 48 hours, adding the damp wood periodically to keep the coals smoldering, while the sweet smoke infuses the fish with flavor.

At night, put damp wood in the pit in a crisscross formation, it will fall on itself as it smolders, and you can catch a few hours sleep.

The salmon can be served hot or cold, and can be vacuum-packed or canned. A perfect summer treat, paired with a simple salad, crusty bread, melon, and berries.

See you at Chief Seattle Days!

By Della Crowell & Melissa Lund

Prevent Hazards and Unwanted Critters • Inspect and trim vegetation, plants, tree limbs away from your home • Inspect and remove wasp nests and bee hives Prevent injury • Inspect decks and porches prior to using for loose railings or weak boards • Regularly check yards for anything that could cut bare feet Fire Prevention • Check/Change batteries in smoke detectors • Check fire extinguisher • Clean your gutters • Safely store gas and fuel tanks

By Lois “Lane” Sullivan

18 | August 2023

Suquamish News

Suquamish.nsn.us

Culture

Dennis Lewarch Retires, Leaving a Legacy of Preservation and Appreciation for Suquamish Tribe

W

hen it was Dennis Lewarch’s turn to speak at the end of his retirement honoring as the Tribe’s archeologist and historic preservation officer, the first thing he spoke of was gratitude. It was rewarding to work with elders, to work with Rob Purser and before that with Merle Hayes and Willie Pratt. He spoke of how much he had learned from taking language classes with Randi Purser, from Barbara Lawrence, Marilyn Wandrey, and others “The affection is so heart warming,” he said.

Lewarch had envisioned a career as a college professor, but says he followed the pathway that the creator put before him and wound up working for the Suquamish Tribe for 17 years. “This is where I belong,” he said.

He also spoke of the lessons he had learned during those years – certainly lessons about Suquamish culture and history but also about the importance of giving, not just receiving. The importance of caring for others. And the importance of love.

Appreciation flowed the other way, also, as Tribal leaders and colleagues praised Dennis for the many ways he helped research and uncover long buried Suquamish history.

“You’ve been a huge guidance for me over the years,” Tribal Council member Sammy Mabe said at the honoring. He spoke of his search for his own family history, and the ways Lewarch had helped him identify his relatives and ties to various families. “I want to thank you for being that guy who not only cares about our Tribe and our history, but cares about the history of our individual families. That shows a level of heart and commitment that will be tough to parallel.”

Joey Holmes spoke of the Culture Department discussion of a phrase that best suites Dennis in the language. “We agreed that he was tubšədəʔ ʔə ti syəcəb – A warrior of true information,” he said.

Tribal Council members Leonard Forsman, Denita Holmes, and Josh Bagley were also on hand to show their gratitude.

Elder Marilyn Wandrey summed up what many were feeling about Lewarch: “I can’t say how much he means to me and our tribe. You have lifted us so much in the time you’ve been here. I

am so grateful, and I love you.”

Lewarch began working for the Suquamish Tribe on February 21, 2006. Over the years, he helped secure over $1 million in grants for Suquamish historic preservation efforts. He applied for support from the National Parks service for a Suquamish Historic Preservation Officer and became the first person to serve in that position.

Lewarch helped do the research and prepare the applications to get Doe Kag Wats and Old Man House listed on the National Registry of Historic Places as traditional cultural properties, bringing national recognition to these important landmarks. He helped document the experiences of tribal fishers and hunters – evidence that has been central to establishing the legal foundation for the tribe’s traditional fishing, gathering, and hunting areas throughout Puget Sound and in Hood Canal and protecting the tribe’s treaty rights.

Lewarch also researched the Tribe’s history in Hood Canal, and the role of Challacum, an under-recognized Suquamish Chief, but who was one of the region’s most prominent leaders linking the Suquamish people with the Hudson Bay Company and the Catholic Church.

He researched the genealogy of Tribal families; he helped them connect their stories to those of their ancestors. He helped write the application to have a Washington state ferry named “Suquamish.” Although it took two attempts, their persistence paid off. He shared his knowledge freely with the tribal community and the public.

He responded to requests from local governments and private companies to identify Suquamish historic and archeological sites. He helped with the challenging work of identifying and returning ancestors.

Before coming to Suquamish, Lewarch worked for consulting firms, taught at the University of South Carolina and the University of Washington. He has an MA in anthropology with specialization in archeology and is a PHd candidate.

Lewarch’s last day on the job is July 28, which coincides with the day canoes from throughout the region land in Suquamish. Lewarch plans to stay connected with the Suquamish Tribe, continuing his study of Lushootseed, and starting work on a long-awaited book, along with Forsman, on Suquamish tribal history. And he plans to travel to Wales to see the land of his own ancestors.

By Sarah van Gelder

New Hires Name *Anthony Pondelick *Shery Werbelo

Department DCD

Sara Cole

Title Housing Maintenance Assistant Behavior Intervention Specialist Procurement Agent

Vincea Hibbets

Accounting Tech III

Finance

*Kate Ahvakana

Director

Jeff Williamson Mary Lawrence

Principal Administrative Assistant Visitor Services Representative Clerk Staff Accountant

Cultural Resources CKA Museum

Jennifer Reynolds Rose Healey Madeline Dayley * Tribal member

ELC Finance

Museum Tribal Court Finance

Suquamish News

Suquamish.nsn.us

t s u g Au August 7 Georgia George Lenaya Pondelick Samantha Johnson

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 Marion Ives Michelle Brown Popeh Chiquiti Weylyn Haynes VI William Gemmell August 5 Dionicio Lawrence Jaylen Joe August 6 Amelia Barnes Chrystal Parsons

August 8 Alyssa Mabe Annabel Riggins John Mabe Victor Sanchez August 9 Bennie (Bj) Armstrong James Bradwell Kaitlyn Mills Ka-lene Williams Taliyah Berg August 10 Amy Sterling Arlene McElroy 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 Nicolas Purser Nicole Mendez Yanawas Tom

August 2023 | 19

Birthdays August 14 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 Leloni Boultier August 17 Ivy Berry Jackson Holmes Lea McMillan Sr. Willard Williams August 18 Andrew Joe Joanne Collins August 19 Alexandra Boyd James Forsman August 20 Anthony Adams Lawson Dumford Mary Widen 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

August 31 Annette West Taylor Napoleon William George

August 23 Cassandra McManamon Olivia George Shenowah Purser August 24 Jonathan Day August 25 Bobby Pondelick Ethan Alexander Kahli Oakman Mariya Neal August 26 Jacob Adams

WELCOME BABY BOY

Kyl-e-an Kwey-kwandi Tabafunda-Turner

August 27 Jaylene Ogle Teylor Ives Born on June 16, 2023 Parents:Jeannie Tabafunda & Kyle Turner

August 28 Avia Davis Daniel Covarrubias Mable Price Tatiana Fontes-Lawrence Vernon Vollenweider Zoie Davis August 29 Dawson Berg August 30 Patricia Johnson Sheylene Jefferson

Grandparents: David Mills Sr. & Vicky Turner Randy & Gloria Tabafunda Kyl-e-an is the youngest of nine and will be a clam digger like his daddy & papa.

@

h

tural

k

ll

ft

ting

ʔiišədalʔtxʷ ʔət ti suq’ʷabš

Summer Summer Calendar F a m i ly & F r i e n d s C e n t e r

ʔiišədalʔtxʷ ʔət ti suq’ʷabš

F a m i ly & F r i e n d s C e n t e r

Calendar

Hours M-F: 10:00 am - 6:00 pm FTransports: i t n e s s / Y o u t h C10:30 e n t e r am & 5:30 pm

Hours M-F: 10:00 am - 6:00 pm Transports: 10:30 am & 5:30 pm 5 2 4 3 N E To t t e n R o a d , Poulsbo, WA 98370

Fitness/Youth Center 5 2 4 3 N E To t t e n R o a d , Poulsbo, WA 98370

Extended and weekend hours dependent upon activity

JUNe

JULY

August

6th Thursday – Teen Trip to 2nd Friday– Teen late night weekend Extended and hours dependent upon activity Stranger Things 4pm time leave @ 4th Friday – Movie outing Spider man movie 6pm show time

August 12pm

JUNe

7th Wednesday – Dancing brush Father’s Day craft outing After School

7th Fri & 13th Thur – Beach

Day Outing

JULY

August

10th Thursday – Teen Wild

Waves outing

10th & 17th Monday – Cultural 11th Friday – family movie

craft day at Youth Center

night 6th Thursday – Teen Trip to 11th & 18th Tuesday – Park 2nd Friday– Teen lateDay night Outing

12th - 16th – Father’s Day crafts

after school programming

Spider man movie 6pm show time

14th Wednesday- An Evening

4th Friday – Movie outing

Stranger Things time leave @ 15th Tuesday4pm – MoPOP outing

12th Wednesday- Whirly12pm ball

with Calina at the House of Awakened Culture 5:00-8:00pm

outing

Juneteenth CLOSED

group and family movie night

18th Fri & 21st Mon – CLOSED IN SERVICE

10th Thursday – Teen Wild

7th Fri & 13th Thur – Beach

7th Wednesday – Dancing Outing outing 4th Friday – MovieDayouting ʔiišədalʔtxʷ ʔət ti Waves suq’ʷabš brush Father’s Day craft outing

24th Saturday end of school

After School

year bash 12-4 pm

14th Friday– ultimate Frisbee

19th Wednesday– Seattle

Aquarium outing

23rd Wednesday – Alder

Summer Calendar wood Mall Teen Trip Outing

a17th m i ly & Fr ien d s C ent er 10thF& Monday 24th Thursday – Ice Cream – Cultural 11th Friday – family movie

20th Thur & 21st Fri – Craft

craft day at Youth Center 26-29 Native Wellness trip Deliveries 24th – 30th canoe journey 28-July 4 UNITY trip – Father’s Day crafts 25th Friday – Back to School 27th Thursday – Ice cream after programming Bash, Youth Council elections.

29th – Iceschool Cream Delivery 1:00pm delivery 1:00pm Day Outing 28th Friday – CLOSED for Hosting and water sprinkler

12th - 16th 11th &Wild 18th Tuesday – Park 10th Thursday – Teen

Waves outing 14th Wednesday- An Evening

night

15th Tuesday – MoPOP outing

12th Wednesday- Whirly ball

All special ticketed or limited seated outings are Suquamish Tribal Preference: Pwith r e Calina f e r eatnthe c eHouse of Awak- Suquamishouting Suquamish Citizens/members, Descendants, and Suquamish households.

ened Culture 5:00-8:00pm

18th Fri & 21st Mon – CLOSED IN SERVICE

14th Friday– ultimate Frisbee

for more information (360) 394-8576

and family movie night Hours M-F: 10:00 am - 6:00group pm 11th Friday – family movie Juneteenth CLOSED

Transports: am & 5:3019th pmWednesday– Seattle end of school 24th Saturday10:30 night Aquarium outing F i tbash n e12-4 s s pm /Youth Center year 5 2 4 3 N E To t t e n R o a d20th , Thur & 21st Fri – Craft 26-29 P o u Native l s b oWellness , W Atrip9 8 3 7 0 and water sprinkler MoPOP outing Extended and weekend hours dependent upon activity 24th – 30th canoe journey 28-July 4 UNITY trip 27th Thursday – Ice cream 29th – Ice Cream Delivery 1:00pm delivery 1:00pm 28th Friday ––Teen CLOSED for Hosting 6th Thursday Trip to 2nd Friday– Teen late night

15th Tuesday –

23rd Wednesday – Alder wood Mall Teen Trip Outing 24th Thursday – Ice Cream Deliveries

25th Friday – Back to School Bash, Youth Council elections.

JUNe August 18th Fri & 21st MonJULY – 4th Friday – CLOSED IN SERVICE P r e f e r e n c e All special ticketed or limited seated outings are Suquamish Tribal Preference: Spider man movie 6pm show time

Stranger Things 4pm time leave @ 12pm

Movie outing

10th Thursday – Teenhouseholds.

Wild Fri & 13th Thur – BeachDescendants, Suquamish 7th Citizens/members, Suquamish and Suquamish 7th Wednesday – Dancing Day Outing Waves outing brush Father’s Day craft outing for more information (360) 394-8576 After School 10th & 17th Monday – Cultural 11th Friday – family movie craft day at Youth Center night 12th - 16th – Father’s Day crafts 11th & 18th Tuesday – Park after school programming Day Outing 15th Tuesday – MoPOP outing 12th Wednesday- Whirly ball 14th Wednesday- An Evening outing 18th Fri & 21st Mon – with Calina at the House of Awakened Culture 5:00-8:00pm CLOSED IN SERVICE 14th Friday– ultimate Frisbee group and family movie night Juneteenth CLOSED 23rd Wednesday – Alder 19th Wednesday– Seattle 24th Saturday end of school wood Mall Teen Trip Outing Aquarium outing year bash 12-4 pm 20th Thur & 21st Fri – Craft 24th Thursday – Ice Cream and water sprinkler 26-29 Native Wellness trip Deliveries

23rd Wednesday – Alder wood Mall Teen Trip Outing

24th Thursday – Ice Cream Deliveries

25th Friday – Back to School

24th – 30th canoe journey 28-July Youth 4 UNITY tripCouncil elections.

Bash, 29th – Ice Cream Delivery 1:00pm

27th Thursday – Ice cream

delivery 1:00pm

25th Friday – Back to School Bash, Youth Council elections.

28th Friday – CLOSED for Hosting

Preferenc e All special ticketed or limited seated outings are Suquamish Tribal Preference: Suquamish Citizens/members, Suquamish Descendants, and Suquamish households.

ticketed or limited seated outings outings All arespecial Suquamish Tribal Preference: for more information (360) 394-8576 are Suquamish Tribal Preference: Suquamish scendants, and Suquamish households.

Citizens/member, Suquamish Descendants, and Suquamish households. For more infor-

r m a t i omation n ( 3 (360) 6 0 ) 394-8576.

394-8576

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