qyuuqs News September 2019

Sept 2019 Vol.53 No. 7

Preparedness

Being Your Own Emergency Manager | PAGE 20

C

NTENTS INSIDE

2019-2020 Swinomish Royalty Back row, from left: Andrea Edwards, Selena Bailey, Dekota Johns, Chas James. Front row, from left: Peyton Charles, Russell Gould.

ON THE COVER

20

Being Your Own Emergency Manager

Preparedness Photo Courtesy of Katie Bassford

sw d bĹĄ qyuuqs News e e

2

03 05 06 07 08 10 12 13 14 16 17 18 20 22 24 26 28 30 31 33 34 36 38

Editor's Note Chairman's Message Recent Tribal Code Amendments Community Happenings Obituaries Earthquakes Swinomish Days Pow wow Revitalizing the Life of Indigenous Traditional...

Swinomish Visits a Clam Garden in British Columbia...

October Tide Table Being Frank YSP Summer Highlights & Pulling Together for Wellness Being Your Own Emergency Manager From the Tribal Archive: The History of the Swinomish...

Science Corner: CEH Clam Survey The Clambake Science Corner: Climate Changes in the Pacific...

Hunting & Gathering Tribal Youth Initiative Grant...

Being Prepared for a Marine Oil Spill Meet Your Wild Neighbors: The American Black Bear Science Corner: Protect Your Groundwater Day 2019 Mrs. V's 2 Cents September Birthdays

editor’s NOTE The year 2020 is just months away. While it’s more common for you all to make plans for your new year, I presume that not a whole lot of you are planning your year in preparation of a natural disaster. While the idea of something as disastrous as a hurricane or tornado are less likely to occur here in Washington State, an unpredicted high-magnitude earthquake could potentially create a tsunami creating havoc amongst our small community.

What happens when both of those bridges are blocked or worse, have collapsed? Do you have a disaster kit to rely on, if this happens? Do you have an emergency plan for you and your family? Does your community have a plan?

With all of the recent weather events: hurricanes, wildfires, thunder and lightening storms, the qyuuqs News staff would like to recognize National National Preparedness month is recognized each Preparedness this month. In this issue you will learn September to promote family and community disaster what supplies to gather for a disaster kit, how to make and emergency planning. The Federal Emergency an emergency plan for you and your family, and what Management Agency (FEMA) has designated this you should do if an earthquake happens. year’s theme as “Prepared, Not Scared.”

For a small community like Swinomish, it can be very easy to see disasters as events that happen "out there" in the world, but never happen here. Let me remind you that Swinomish is on an island and there are two bridges that take you in and out of the reservation.

pedIexic

A plan is not putting you in a box and forcing you to stay there. A plan is a guide to keep you on course, efficient, and safe.

-Amber Hurdle Caroline Edwards goliahlitza

(pud-kwuh-HWEETs)

Moon of the Silver Salmon Much of September is "moon of the silver salmon." During this moon, silver salmon, also called Coho salmon, are fished by trolling with V-shaped hooks made of bent hemlock attached to a line. The other salmon runs continue in the bays and rivers. Seal hunting, and plant gathering continues. During this moon and the one before, seeds used for trading are collected.

Excerpt from ‘13 Moons: The 13 Lunar Phases, and How They Guide the Swinomish People’ By swelitub (Todd A. Mitchell) and Jamie L. Donatuto sw d bš qyuuqs News

3

e e

The official news publication

of the Swinomish Indian Tribal Community

T R I B A L S E N AT E

spee pots Brian Cladoosby, Chairman (360) 708.7533 | bcladoosby@

ya qua leouse Brian Porter, Vice Chair (360) 840.4186 | bporter@

sapelia Sophie Bailey, Secretary (360) 853.6458 | sbailey@

sOladated Brian Wilbur, Treasurer (360) 588.2812 | bwilbur@

stoolsta Eric Day (360) 770.7024 | eday@

The mission of qyuuqs News is to provide monthly communication to Swinomish Indian Tribal Community Members near and far. We are committed to serving as an apolitical forum for the Swinomish governing officials and all Community Members. qyuuqs News is not intended to reflect the official position of the governing body at Swinomish Indian Tribal Community but rather reflects the ideas, events, and thoughts of individual Community Members and Tribal staff. As such, the Swinomish Tribe makes no claim as to the accuracy or content of any of the articles contained therein. qyuuqs News 17337 Reservation Road, La Conner, WA 98257 Phone (360) 466.7258 Fax (360) 466.1632 *SUBMISSIONS Send your news tips, stories, and photos to qyuuqs@swinomish.nsn.us Submission deadline: 10th day of the month EDITORIAL Caroline Edwards, Editor | cedwards@swinomish.nsn.us

yal le ka but Steve Edwards (360) 840.5768 | sedwards@

taleq tale II Barbara James (360) 391.3958 | bjames@

SM OK O LO Leon John (360) 421.0406 | ljohn@

wa lee hub Kevin Paul (360) 540.3906 | tribalsenator@yahoo.com

kuts-bat-soot Jeremy Wilbur 360-770-7447 | jjwilbur@

squi-qui Joseph Williams (360) 853.5629 | jwilliams@ All Swinomish staff emails: FirstInitialLastName@swinomish.nsn.us

sw d bĹĄ qyuuqs News e e

4

SWINOMISH COMMUNICATIONS Heather Mills, Communications Manager | hmills@swinomish.nsn.us Emma Fox, Communications Specialist | efox@swinomish.nsn.us ADVISORY COMMITTEE Allan Olson, Tracy James, Kevin Paul This issue is available online at swinomish-nsn.gov/qyuuqs Photos credits: qyuuqs News Staff or as credited. All rights reserved.

Facebook: Swinomish qyuuqs News Linkedin: Swinomish Indian Tribal Community *qyuuqs News is made available for viewing on the Internet When submitting information, stories, and/or photos, please be aware everything published in the print version of qyuuqs News is also published on the Internet and is available to the world. Please consider carefully whether your submissions contain anything you feel may not be suitable or appropriate for the Internet. By submitting your information, stories, and/or photos to qyuuqs News, you agree to publishing your submission in both the print and online versions of qyuuqs News. qyuuqs News is a publication of the Swinomish Indian Tribal Community produced by Swinomish Communications.

Fall has come upon us in what feels like one day! Just the other evening we witnessed weather that produced thousands of lightning strikes over Western Washington (2200 according to the news), and just like that, summer seems to have vanished. What a storm! And what a summer!

Reflecting back over the past few months, I thank the Creator for such a wonderful summer spent with my family and community. I am truly thankful we had such good weather and that Nina and I were able to take Dad out on Canoe Journey and fi shing on the Skagit River.

The recent storm is just one of many we know we’ll experience in our community. One challenge we face due to our weather is power outages. Swinomish senior and youth program staff used to scramble to find freezer space during these times, but Cathi Bassford has worked hard with Senate leadership to take care of this matter.

With guidance from Swinomish Planning and Community Development and other tribal departments, we have built emergency safety plans for many situations. Whether it be an oil spill, air pollution, or flooding in the north end, there are plans in place to address our community needs in the event of an emergency. We have worked carefully with industries as well as area cities and counties to ensure we provide a safe place for our community members.

When we address emergency oil spill impacts, there are multiple area sources that pose potential hazards that could significantly impact the reservation and our usual and accustomed places, including: ♦ Two large petroleum refineries located at March Point ♦ A BNSF railroad system that passes through the reservation

With fall upon us, we want to make sure you are all prepared for storms and colder weather. Don’t forget to sign up for the firewood program with Public Works. And as a reminder, Swinomish Cleanup Day is September 30!

Switching gears, it’s time to celebrate all of our wonderful children who returned to school for the year.

It is powerful to witness our children taking charge of their futures. La Conner School District currently has 585 K-12 students enrolled in the 2019-2020 school year—thirty percent are our Swinomish youth!

For over 20 years the Swinomish Tribe has committed to building strong early to higher education programs.

As a community, we have been able to change the face of education to a place of opportunity and our future.

Many of you have heard me share stories about the successes of our youth. I tell these stories because I am proud. I have been loving to hear stories from the young adults who recently graduated from high school or college: Kalona Casey; Alana Quintasket; Kaneesha Casey; Jeremiah Williams; Missy Cayou; Hillary Edwards; and Scottie Miller.

In our eyes each of our youth have a success story to share. Many are courageous in taking on the world and raising young families, living the fishing and crabbing life, going to law school, becoming health care providers or DHATs, investing in their happiness for a healthy and prosperous life—I want to thank you for being leaders in our community.

In closing, I want to make sure we take time to share those important words that mean so much to every one of us: “I love you” and “you matter.” Please know that Nina and I love each of you so much, and we pray every day for our family and friends. I am blessed, and I am thankful to have you in my life.

Brian Cladoosby spee pots

sw d bš qyuuqs News e e

the chairman’s MESSAGE

♦ Three major petroleum pipelines that cross the reservation ♦ Refinery activities such as tanker vessel traffic, the unloading of crude oil, and the loading of finished products ♦ Large amounts of commercial and recreational marine vessel traffic

5

RECENT TRIBAL CODE AMENDMENTS OfďŹ ce of Tribal Attorney

The Swinomish Senate, the governing body of the Swinomish Indian Tribal Community, recently enacted the following code amendments:

Title 17, Chapter 11 – Tax, Trust Improvement Use and Occupancy Tax At the August Senate meeting, the Senate made revisions to the Tribe’s Tax Code. The Tax Committee recommended the amendments, which the Senate enacted on August 6, 2019. The amendments clarified some descriptions within the Code, as well as made modifications to administrative processes, and established a procedure for tax lien foreclosures.

The amended code and Constitution are available for review on our website at Swinomish-nsn.gov.

Paper copies are available for review at the Social Services or Planning departments, and through the Tribal Court Clerk, the Office of the Tribal Attorney, and the Senate’s Executive Assistant.

Preparation is key!

Asiah Gonzalez, Dental Health Aide Specialist

There are lots of ways the Swinomish Dental Clinic uses preparation in the work place to make our days run smoothly, such as our daily morning huddles and monthly meetings. We make sure the team is aware of what’s going on in these meetings, such as what patients are being seen that day and what procedures our team will be performing. We also prep the types of materials and x-rays that are needed for the day. We also discuss important news happening in the community, so we as a staff are aware and sure we are being culturally competent.

Our team also reinforces oral health instructions to our patients (brushing morning and night, flossing, mouth rinses, and, of course, regular visits to the dental clinic), so they are better prepared to take care of their teeth at home, and are able to educate their loved ones about their oral health as well. It’s important to us that the community is healthy and happy with their smiles.

ÂŽ, the free

 �   �

missing persons and children, evacuation notices, natural disasters, boil water advisories, weather warnings, criminal activities, road closures, traffic alerts, shelter in place, lockdowns, and more sw d bĹĄ qyuuqs News e e

6

COMMUNITY HAPPENINGS SEPTEMBER 18 Community Dinner | 6PM @ Youth Center SEPTEMBER 30 September Cleanup Day *Community Dinners are subject to change

HOLIDAYS SEPTEMBER 2 Labor Day! SEPTEMBER 23 Native American Day!

A PICTURE IS WORTH A THOUSAND WORDS! TELL US YOUR STORY! qyuuqs Submission Deadline 10th of Every Month Please submit to: qyuuqs@swinomish.nsn.us Questions? Please email qyuuqs@swinomish. nsn.us or call (360) 466.7258. sw d bš qyuuqs News

7

e e

Obituaries

Susan Ann Clark Bobb wasta Susan Ann Clark Bobb was born on January 8, 1980 to Annette 'Nadine' Clark and Jerry Cayou. She is an enrolled member of the Swinomish Tribe.

Susan attended La Conner Schools and later went to Northwest Indian College to pursue her Associates of Arts and Science degree.

Susan was married to Brent Bobb Sr. for 15 years, when they had their only child Brent Bobb Jr. Susan's life was complete. Her son was her world, she planned her every day schedule around him. Susan made sure to give little Brent a life that was full of positive, cultural, traditional and athletic influences molding a good future for him. When Susan Ann set her mind to something she always made it happen. Susan loved to travel, it didn't matter whether it was for a concert, her son's football or basketball, a stick game, a pow wow, canoe journey or Seahawks games, she always found a way to get there. Even going as far as London for the international NFL series, just to support the Seahawks! As you all know her passion for the Seahawks was larger than life, GO HAWKS! Last year, little Brent wanted to go with his auntie Katie and his auntie Lauren on the Susan G. Komen walk. Brent wanted to walk in memory of his auntie Rosemary Cayou and his grandma Jeanie Jimmy, it was a 3 day 60 mile walk to raise money for breast cancer research. This was very challenging for him but he completed it! Even though he was too young to be a registered participant, his mom encouraged, supported and cheered him all the way to the finish. She wanted him to know how to give his good energy and prayers in honor of others. Thank you Katie and Lauren for giving little Brent this opportunity.

Susan Ann grew up on the stick game trail, many of us watched her, and her brother and sisters play with Nadine since they were small. They always had that strong family bond. Nadine taught them how to be a team, win or lose she taught them to love the game and to have fun. They won a few championships, they got a few jackets and they made a few bucks, but most importantly they got a lifetime of memories to cherish with Susan and their mom.

Susan joined her family in the Smokehouse in 2000, she was the youngest baby of 7 boys and 2 girls. She loved her life of seyown and she helped many people over the years. She was dedicated to her inherent rights, carrying sw d bĹĄ qyuuqs News e e

8

on the teaching of her late grandfather and living by what was taught to her. Susan always made sure to help feed the people, she was either cooking, cleaning, or providing something for the table. If you were friends with Susan you had a friend for life, she always had your back no matter what.

Susan also loved music, some of her favorite artists were the Eagles, Fleetwood Mac, AC/DC, Michael Jackson, Keith Sweat etc. She also loved to dance! She would always be the first one out there dancing and dragging everyone out there to dance with her. I'm pretty sure that she inherited her love of music and dancing from mom and all her crazy aunties! We have all at one time or another had our share of good times with Susan Ann, hence the nick name "Boozer"! Too much, too many, too crazy to tell! We will just leave it at that! Susan Ann loved to have fun, loved to be around her people and loved her son more than anything.

We are going to miss that hug and 'I love you'! We need to think of how she is with her mom now, she is playing that big stick game over there, and she is enjoying another Seahawk Super Bowl, she is dancing to all those favorite songs with all her family and friends. Remember her for the life she lived, the happiness she had and the love that she shared. Susan Ann Clark Bobb was a very beautiful person who showed love and respect to everyone she knew. Most of all remember that she never left any gathering without giving you a hug and saying, 'I love you'!

Susan Ann is proceeded in death by her mom Nadine Clark, her grandfather Charlie Clark, grandfather John Cayou, grandmother Madeline Cayou.

Susan Ann is survived by her son Brent Bobb Jr., husband Brent Bobb Sr., her dad Jerry and Bonnie Cayou, grandmother Edythe Clark, brother Jeremy and Amber Cayou, sister Roberta Cayou and Calvin Roberts, Rosie Cayou, brother Nicholas Clark and Ayla Cayou, sisters Leila and Mariah Clark, and her god parents Joe and Sophie Bailey.

Maurine Neah Dan Martin ste-da-galth dee-aucks Maurine Neah Dan Martin ste-da-galth dee-aucks passed away peacefully surrounded by family. She was born August 27, 1934 in Neah Bay, Washington to the late Morris and Bertha (George) Dan. A lifetime resident of Swinomish and Omak. She had two older brothers Morris Jr., Alvin and a younger brother Phillip. She was the beloved daughter. She was an enrolled member of the Swinomish Tribe, 1910 Indian Shaker Church and Indian Smokehouse.

Also, she attended the Pentecostal church. She attended school in Coupeville and La Conner. Thereafter, she was a commercial fisher woman, Head Start Consultant and worked at Paschal Sherman Indian Schools. She was a spiritual healer, speaker, leader, historian, educator, genealogist and served on the Swinomish Enrollment and Culture committees.

following years, she looked after the two boys Ernie and Randy. A special lifetime bond developed between them.

Also, it was at this time that Maurine met another Colville Tribal member Melvin Moon Martin and “that as they say is another story of love.” Randy would have none of that nonsense and made sure they didn’t get too close.

On December 10, 1969 Maurine married Melvin Moon Martin. They were the proud parents of 8 children: Merla, Henry, Francis, Moon II, Mike, Mary, Millie, Mark Martin.

And, they were blessed with 18 grandchildren: Marco P. Martin, Markisha Martin, Marlene Martin, Moon Martin III, Morrae “Obi” Martin, Lucy Martin, Henry Martin, Marilyn Borrego, Joseph Martin, Pete Martin, Dwight Martin, Arianna Siddle, Shaleanna Torrez, Zilaneao Pride, Mike Martin Jr., Brad Martin Corval, Aliza Seward and Marty Throughout her life, she was a teacher of canning, Long. sewing, cooking, dancing, singing, and drumming. She loved traveling with her family to stick games, playing, She is preceded in death by her parents Morris and Bertha winning and making lifelong friends. She enjoyed eating Dan, brothers Morris Jr., Alvin and Phillip Dan, sons Henry at 13 Moons restaurant, playing the slots at the casinos, Martin, daughter Lita Billy, grandsons Marco P., Moon III watching canoe races and attending the Gathering of Martin.

Nations pow-wow. As well as, visiting places like Hawaii, Las Vegas, Arizona, New Mexico, Holland and Germany.

She is survived by ancestral namesake ste da galth Julia Solomon; daughters Merla, Millie Martin, Mary Bernard; In the early 40’s, Maurine traveled with her family to the sons Francis, (Lori), Moon, (Jennie) and Mike, (Roberta) Okanogan Valley. Like many of the Puget Sound Indians Martin; 18 grandchildren; great grandchild Dominic G.; there were family ties, and the 1910 Indian Shaker Church numerous nieces and nephews; cousin Francis Peters and was the biggest common thread that brought everyone extended family. together. The Miller family and the Dan’s were very close and had strong bonds to one another. At one of the Shaker Our family raises our hands in gratitude to the Swinomish Gatherings, Maurine was invited to stay and help look Casino and Lodge staff and Fire District 13. after the grandsons of Agnes and Jerome Miller. The

Photo Courtesy of Katie Bassford

sw d bš qyuuqs News

9

e e

EARTHQUAKES Each year 12,000-14,000 earthquakes are reported; that’s an average of 35 earthquakes a day. Forty-five states and U.S. territories are at moderate to high risk for earthquakes - these states are located in every region of the country.

Earthquake Safety Basics When earthquakes strike a populated region, they can cause extensive damage. Buildings and bridges can collapse, and gas, water, electric and phone service can be disrupted. Earthquakes can also cause serious injuries and fatalities. Scientists cannot predict precisely when or where one will occur. It’s important to know what to do before, during, and after an earthquake:

Before Identify safe spots at home and work: • Under sturdy tables or desks • In structurally sound or strongly supported doorways.

• In a small room or hallway

steps and stay there until the shaking stops.

If outside, stay at least 10 feet away from any building from which window glass and other debris could fall.

Move away from trees, streetlights, and power lines.

Crouch down and cover your head.

If in a vehicle, park in a location away from trees, wires, buildings, bridges and overpasses. Stay where you are, with your safety belt fastened, until the earthquake is over. Never stop under or on a bridge.

If in a coastal area, move to high ground.

Never take cover near windows or heavy furniture that can tip over, such as bookcases and entertainment units. If in a mountainous area, watch for and avoid falling rocks, Avoid poorly supported doorways, such as those with broken roadbeds, landslides and falling debris. metal frames.

Have a plan Family members can become separated during an earthquake. Be prepared by creating a plan for how to reach one another. Establish an out-of-area contact (such as a relative or family friend) who can coordinate family members’ locations and information should you become separated. Make sure children learn the phone numbers and addresses, and know the emergency plans.

After Earthquakes are dangerous, but the disasters they can trigger such as fires, floods, landslides, tsunamis (giant sea waves) and avalanches can be more devastating.

Expect aftershocks, smaller earthquakes that can occur after a major quake. Monitor radio news reports for updates and the latest emergency information. The risk of injury increases for those who go outside too soon. If you loose electricity, use a flashlight. Never use candles Prepare a family disaster supplies kit. Families with because of the possibility of a gas leak and the danger of children should have each child create their own personal fire. When authorities say the event has ended, check your pack. home for structural damage, gas leaks, and fire. Report any problems to the appropriate authorities. Record any During damage that has resulted from the quake.

Stay Calm. The precautions you should take are determined Source: FEMA, National Earthquake Information Center by where you are when the earthquake begins.

If inside, take cover using the drop, cover, and hold on technique. If you must move for safety, take only a few sw d bš qyuuqs News e e

10

for EmErgEnciEs in Tribal naTions Preparing makes sense get ready now In the past, flooding, wildfires, volcanic eruptions, earthquakes, and severe winter weather have threatened the Northwest Coastal and Plateau areas.

Now consider the possibility of home fires and even terrorist attacks. Are you prepared to make it on your own for a few days in the event of an emergency?

recommended supplies for a basic Kit: • Water, one gallon per person per day, for drinking and sanitation • Food, at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food like dried fruit, meat, or fish, protein bars, and canned goods

• Battery-powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert and extra batteries for both • Flashlight and extra batteries • Local maps

1. make a plan for what you will do in an emergency.

• First Aid kit • Whistle to signal for help • Dust mask or cotton t-shirt to help filter the air

2. get a kit of emergency supplies.

• Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities

3. be informed about what might happen.

• Plastic sheeting and duct tape to shelter in place

• Can opener for food (if kit contains canned food)

• Moist towelettes, garbage bags, and plastic ties for personal sanitation

learn more at ready.gov or 1-800-bE-rEaDY

sw d bš qyuuqs News

11

e e

SWINOMISH DAYS POW WOW

sw d bš qyuuqs News e e

12

Revitalizing the Life of Indigenous Traditional Homesteads Mariah Holiday, Hunting & Gathering Program Intern

Mariah Holiday’s indigenous roots stem from the Diné (Navajo) Tribe of the Southwest. She is originally from Monument Valley, Utah but currently resides in Bellingham. She is a 2018 graduate from the Northwest Indian College with a Bachelors of Native Environmental Science program. She is currently interning full-time with the Swinomish Hunting & Gathering Program.

While growing up I always considered living in a sustainable and energy efficient home. So, in the midst of planning what homestead I should build for myself, I thought “why not an infallibly engineered womb-structured Hooghan that my ancestors have flourished in for generations?” My family and I had to implement the process of Nahat’á, which means thinking or planning, and following with Iina, which means living or bringing into existence in the Diné language, during the building phase.

ancestors were able to accomplish with traditional technologies and limited aid than from modern-day technologies. We still have avenues to rekindle our spirits to the old ways of our people; it’s just up to ourselves to pursue the knowledge.

It is vital to solidify our foundation as Indigenous peoples. There are still settings today where someone will challenge your ways of life, your language, and the color of your skin. Reclaiming your tribe’s cultural ways is a major step to preparing yourself to new ventures in life. I humbly write this article in thought of the sentimental songs and prayers sung There are nine cedar posts rooted in the earth to with the completion of my Hooghan, in hopes that solidify the upward build of the Hooghan. Just like this will inspire more Indigenous peoples to revitalize a child in a mother’s womb, it stems itself for growth sustainable and energy efficient homesteads. for nine months. The cedar post foundation of the Hooghan also represents the rebirthing of life in Ahéhee’ (Thank You) to my extended relatives for your Diné philosophy. Therefore, this Hooghan will be my time. new “womb” in my life, where I will raise my future children, grandchildren, and honor my ancestors.

In beauty it is finished.

To read more about Mariah Holiday, see the Hunting & Gathering article on PAGE 30.

sw d bš qyuuqs News e e

I caught myself feeling like I was way over my head throughout the building process. I re-grounded myself with the imagination of how much more my

13

SWINOMISH VISITS A CLAM GARDEN IN BRITISH COLUMBIA, CANADA

By Layla Westendorf, Northwest Indian College Student and Fisheries Intern

the Swinomish clam garden have community participation and bring the community together.” -Joey Williams

Indigenous communities have maintained a sustainable environment for millennia. Clam gardens represent just one of the many ancient technologies used to improve food resources that are useful to this day. Clam gardens are low-laying rock walls built just below mean low tide to create a flat beach area behind the wall for clams and other species. Recent research shows that this ancient practice promotes more clam growth and abundance than on beaches without the rock walls. There are restored and functioning clam gardens just over the border in British Columbia.

In July, the Swinomish Police Department transported Swinomish Community members and Fisheries staff to Salt Spring Island in B.C. to participate in a multi-year clam garden restoration project. This project is restoring approximately 1 kilometer of rock wall (a little over half a mile). A carbon dated study has found that this rock walled beach is over 3500 years old! sw d bš qyuuqs News e e

14

We visited the B.C. clam garden because Swinomish is planning to create a clam garden to increase clam populations on the Swinomish Reservation. To determine a location to implement a clam garden, Swinomish Fisheries staff are conducting surveys along the reservation tidelands to assess current beach conditions. We will also be doing a short community survey in September to find out what community members think about different site locations.

Personally, I was in awe of the whole structure that stood before me. I have never seen a rock walled beach before and I could see the difference in habitat it provides for optimal clam growth compared to non-walled beaches. This excursion fed my spirit in ways unknown. I am grateful to have been a part of this work and see Swinomish youth getting involved. I hope to see more of this work in the future and get more of the community involved in Native science.

“I enjoyed having the opportunity to be invited to their [First Nations] territory and see firsthand what it is like to combine ecology and culture was amazing. [For the Swinomish clam garden], it would make my heart happiest if we were able to have the youth out there getting their hands dirty and connecting with the land.

Learning their traditions, language, and stories from the elders of the community. Also making sure that research is done in a respectful manner and according to traditional protocol.” -Alisha Jefferson.

These comments were all said with enthusiasm and that they would definitely attend another trip like this, which is great! We would like to thank the Swinomish Police Department for providing safe passage and look forward to more trips at the end of August.

Clam garden visit comments “I enjoyed watching the kids interact with the project and create life long memories. I’d like to see

Layla Westendorf and Alisha Jefferson

AUGUST 10 — Swinomish Days Swinomish Canoe Club getting ready to head to the race line

AUGUST 1 — Swinomish Canoe Club fundraiser Photo Courtesy of Theresa Trebon, Tribal Archive

sw d bš qyuuqs News

15

e e

TIDE TABLE: October 2019 N ew

m

oo

28

Lone Tree, Snee-Oosh, North Skagit Bay | Department of Environmental Protection r n: Octobe

r ter:

ll Fu L as

tq

ua

n: October

1

22

oo

Octob

4

q

m

er

7

t Firs

ua

r ter:

Octob

er

Day Tue 01 Wed 02 Thu 03 Fri 04 Sat 05 Sun 06 Mon 07 Tue 08 Wed 09 Thu 10 Fri 11 Sat 12 Sun 13 Mon 14 Tue 15 Wed 16 Thu 17 Fri 18 Sat 19 Sun 20 Mon 21 Tue 22 Wed 23 Thu 24 Fri 25 Sat 26 Sun 27 Mon 28 Tue 29 Wed 30 Thu 31

High

00:27 7.90 ft 01:51 7.81 ft 03:02 8.08 ft 03:59 8.48 ft 04:46 8.90 ft 05:27 9.28 ft

00:44 8.14 ft 02:07 8.50 ft 03:20 9.14 ft 04:25 9.88 ft 05:24 10.55 06:20 11.07

Low 01:46 −0.24 ft 02:32 −0.64 ft 03:20 −0.68 ft 04:10 −0.39 ft 05:06 0.12 ft 06:08 0.68 ft 07:17 1.12 ft 08:24 1.38 ft 09:22 1.52 ft 10:10 1.66 ft 10:51 1.91 ft 11:28 2.28 ft 00:04 1.93 ft 00:29 1.27 ft 00:57 0.64 ft 01:28 0.09 ft 02:04 −0.31 ft 02:43 −0.52 ft 03:28 −0.52 ft 04:18 −0.35 ft 05:17 −0.05 ft 06:23 0.26 ft 07:32 0.52 ft 08:37 0.75 ft 09:37 1.08 ft 10:31 1.60 ft 11:22 2.31 ft 12:11 3.17 ft 00:38 −1.30 ft 01:19 −1.74 ft 02:02 −1.78 ft

High 08:05 10.98 09:05 10.78 10:10 10.51 11:24 10.26 12:47 10.15 14:07 10.23 15:10 10.39 15:56 10.50 16:30 10.54 16:55 10.53 17:15 10.51 17:35 10.52 06:05 9.62 ft 06:43 9.92 ft 07:22 10.18 08:03 10.38 08:47 10.48 09:37 10.48 10:34 10.40 11:39 10.32 12:51 10.36 13:57 10.56 14:49 10.87 15:31 11.19 16:07 11.48 16:41 11.70 17:15 11.78 17:50 11.69 07:15 11.41 08:09 11.56 09:04 11.54

Low 14:04 2.91 ft 14:56 4.09 ft 15:55 5.14 ft 17:09 5.90 ft 18:50 6.15 ft 20:30 5.77 ft 21:34 5.11 ft 22:18 4.43 ft 22:52 3.79 ft 23:19 3.18 ft 23:42 2.57 ft

High 19:49 11.24 20:28 10.71 21:12 10.00 22:03 9.18 ft 23:08 8.41 ft

12:02 2.76 ft 12:37 3.34 ft 13:13 3.98 ft 13:51 4.66 ft 14:32 5.32 ft 15:20 5.94 ft 16:17 6.43 ft 17:30 6.67 ft 19:00 6.46 ft 20:19 5.73 ft 21:14 4.65 ft 21:57 3.37 ft 22:38 1.99 ft 23:18 0.67 ft 23:58 −0.47 ft

17:57 10.51 18:20 10.47 18:46 10.35 19:14 10.15 19:43 9.87 ft 20:16 9.51 ft 20:56 9.08 ft 21:52 8.60 ft 23:13 8.20 ft

13:00 4.08 ft 18:25 11.40 13:52 4.93 ft 19:03 10.90 14:47 5.64 ft 19:44 10.22

Sunrise Sunset Moonrise Moonset 7:09 18:49 10:46 20:50 7:10 18:47 12:02 21:24 7:12 18:45 13:13 22:03 7:13 18:43 14:16 22:50 7:15 18:41 15:11 23:43 7:16 18:39 15:56 7:18 18:37 16:34 0:41 7:19 18:35 17:04 1:42 7:21 18:33 17:30 2:45 7:22 18:31 17:53 3:49 7:23 18:29 18:13 4:52 7:25 18:27 18:33 5:56 7:26 18:25 18:53 7:00 7:28 18:23 19:14 8:04 7:29 18:21 19:37 9:10 7:31 18:19 20:04 10:17 7:32 18:17 20:37 11:25 7:34 18:15 21:17 12:31 7:35 18:13 22:07 13:33 7:37 18:11 23:07 14:29 7:39 18:09 15:17 7:40 18:08 0:17 15:57 7:41 18:06 1:33 16:30 7:43 18:04 2:52 16:59 7:45 18:02 4:13 17:26 7:46 18:00 5:35 17:51 7:48 17:59 6:56 18:17 7:49 17:57 8:17 18:45 7:51 17:55 9:37 19:17 7:52 17:54 10:53 19:54 7:54 17:52 12:02 20:39

DID YOU KNOW? PREPAREDNESS

•

•

•

According to the International City/County Management Association (ICMA) 2015 survey on Local Government Sustainability Practices, 76 percent of local governments have responded to a major disaster in the past 15 years.

From the survey, the top three disasters that communities responded to in the past 15 years are floods, blizzards or ice storms, and hurricanes.

The survey showed that 86.9 percent of respondents reported that their jurisdiction has a hazard mitigation plan or an emergency evacuation/relocation plan. Of those who reported having a plan, however, only 68.6 percent reported addressing issues of atrisk (low income, seniors, etc.)

Source: Icma.org

sw d bš qyuuqs News e e

16

Photo Courtesy of Lauren Reynolds

According to NWS Seattle, 2200 lightning strikes were recorded throughout the Puget Sound the evening of September 7.

BEING FRANK EPA SACRIFICES HUMAN HEALTH FOR SHORT-TERM PROFIT Lorraine Loomis, NWIFC Chairman

The 2016 standards were supposed to make sure that seafood from Washington waters was safe for everyone to eat. EPA’s reversal no longer ensures that the human health criteria adequately protect Washington fish and shellfish consumers – including tribal members – from exposure to toxic pollutants.

Our health should not be unjustly jeopardized by increased levels of known dangerous pollutants like PCBs and dioxins that accumulate in the environment and cause real harm to people, orcas, salmon and the entire ecology of the region. PCBs and dioxins are the source of most public health warnings in our state regarding fish and shellfish consumption.

other residents. The truth is that this PCBs and dioxins are known issue is about all of us and everything carcinogens and we are going to have we depend on. to deal with them one way or the other.

The question is whether we want to Under the federal Clean Water Act, do that when they’re still in the water tribes and states – not the federal or after they have entered our bodies government – are responsible for and those of the fish, shellfish, orca setting water quality standards under and other species we are working so their jurisdictions. EPA is allowed to hard to protect. revise existing standards only when they are deemed not strong enough. Why are polluting industries trying That’s not the case here because to poison all of us? Simply for their our current standards are among the short-term economic profit. In the most protective of human health in process, EPA’s decisions threaten the nation. the integrity of the entire Washington seafood economy.

That’s why we will fight this move with everything we have. We will stand These industries and EPA should with all 29 federally recognized tribes be ashamed of their actions. It is in Washington, the entire Democratic unconscionable to knowingly allow congressional delegation, the more cancer-causing and other governor, attorney general’s office, toxic chemicals to be released in our environmental groups and many waters. others who oppose EPA’s actions.

Tribes applaud Washington Attorney General Bob Ferguson for filing a lawsuit challenging EPA’s decision to roll back our water quality standards.

“Trump’s EPA cannot change important water quality protections at the whim of industry interests. It’s The pulp and paper industry, oil not only disruptive to Washington’s companies and other polluters want environmental efforts over the past to make this issue about select two years, it’s a clear violation of groups of people like tribes, Asian the Clean Water Act,” he said in and Pacific Islanders and others who announcing the lawsuit. consume more fish and shellfish than

Being Frank is a monthly column written by the chair of the Northwest Indian Fisheries Commission. As a statement from the NWIFC chair, the column represents the interests and concerns of treaty Indian tribes throughout western Washington. sw d bš qyuuqs News e e

Treaty Indian tribes in Western Washington are outraged that the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is advancing the agenda of a small group of industrial polluters to undermine public health, science and decades of hard work by rolling back the water quality standards that we have been implementing for almost three years.

17

SUMMER HIGHLIGHTS & PULLING TOGETHER FOR WELLNESS Youth Spirit Program

Totem Pole booklet, with additional lessons from Healing of the Canoe curriculum.

Animals as Natural Therapy June 24–27—Our Youth Spirit Program (YSP) summer activities kicked off with a second annual trip to Windy Acres Farm for a week-long Animals as Natural Therapy (ANT) day camp. Youth interacted with horses, goats, bunnies, and other farm animals, while also being able to create art projects and share stories together. ANT offers healing mental health programs that are highly effective in helping overcome personal challenges for at-risk youth, veterans, and elders by focusing on the values of respect, gratitude, and trust while building up clear communication, relationships, and teamwork between staff and participants. Equine assisted activities and therapies offered by ANT can mitigate and assist the healing process with those who may have issues with impulse control, anger and behavior management, PTSD, grief, and self-harm, as well as those with depression and anxiety. Our team included Swinomish counselor Laura Lindberg who helped lead and oversee activities of our participants.

Between 10 a.m. and noon every day, youth could listen to a traditional story and work on a lesson related art activity. Youth Spirit offers enrollment to Native youth ages 12-16; however, we welcome everyone with open arms! Younger participants were able to join in age-appropriate activities, such as painting Lushootseed respect posters, creative drawing, and jewelry making! During this time, we also teamed up with Christine Valdez, Tribal Prevention-Intervention Specialist from the Wellness Program to focus on delivering information regarding healthy coping skills, how to maintain a positive lifestyle, and drug and alcohol prevention.

Community Help & Support We support each other’s endeavors in Indian Country, especially when we host large events with guests from other tribal nations. We would just like to acknowledge and give a special thanks to everyone, including all of the youth from our program, who volunteered and helped with cooking during the Swinomish Landing during Canoe Journey!

Cultural Awareness Seminars

June 18 and August 28 — Along with offering year-round academic enrichment activities for participants, the Youth We formerly utilized the Healing of the Canoe (HOC) Spirit Program offers cultural competency trainings for the curriculum at the La Conner schools. However, we community and La Conner School District staff to improve recognized the need for adapting to a curriculum relevant school connectedness and academic success for tribal to the Swinomish Community, so in the past year, the Youth youth by increasing cultural awareness.

Spirit curriculum was created. Through a collaboration with Swinomish Youth Center staff, we were able to Two seminar trainings have been offered this summer pilot our summer activities outside of the Lushootseed with our partner Dr. Cynthia R. Pearson, professor of classroom using our curriculum, which utilizes the oral School of Social Work, adjunct professor of American stories and traditional teachings from the Swinomish Indian Studies, and director of research at the Indigenous 18 sw d bš qyuuqs News

Curriculum Activities

e e

Youth Spirit at the 4th Annual Inter Tribal Youth Suicide Prevention Summit

Wellness Research Institute at the University of Washington. Feedback from the first seminar on June 18 included interest in learning more about culturally-biased microaggressions; knowledge about the Swinomish history timeline; Indigenous resiliency; ways to include cultural competency in the classroom; and diving deeper into cultural appropriation. Our second seminar was offered to the school district staff during in-service on August 28.

Fourth Annual Inter Tribal Youth Suicide Prevention Summit August 12-14 — Swinomish was represented by a group from Youth Spirit and Swinomish Wellness that even included an appearance by Tribal Senator Barb James! This event is hosted by the American Indian Health Commission (AIHC) who focus on improving health disparities through culturally-appropriate care for Indigenous people at the state level.

The goals of the summit are to create a safe environment to develop knowledge and skills about youth suicide prevention; raise awareness of suicidal behavior as a community issue; understand cultural and other protective factors; raise awareness about healthy relationships; learn how we can support each other; and much more.

sacred. Through embracing and acknowledging our own spirit and gifts can we grow to truly become who we were meant to be! Only through this connection [the human side of us connecting with our own spirit] can we begin to see ourselves as sacred and begin to see and feel the value in our own existence and that; the great spirit gifted us with sacredness, with spirit (that is ours to embrace).”

September is Suicide Prevention Month. We challenge you each week to do three things: 1) shake hands with a stranger, 2) hug someone, and 3) give someone a compliment. It is important to make these connections as it strengthens ourselves, and others. To all of our relations, you are needed, and you are wanted. We love you.

Contact Us! To keep updated when our after-school program starts or if you’re interested in being a guest speaker, volunteer, or a chaperone for a future event, contact us!

Julia Ortiz, YSP Director Phone: (360) 466.7278 Email: jortiz@swinomish.nsn.us Tanisha Gobert, YSP Manager Phone: (360) 499.9446 Email: tgobert@swinomish.nsn.us

Leah Gobert, YSP Assistant Manager Phone: (360) The summit also follows the “I Choose Life – Embrace 399.5805 Email: lgobert@swinomish.nsn.us Your Sacredness” declaration, which is represented in the annual event’s logo and motto. Artist and Lummi member For health tips and program updates text YOUTH SPIRIT Vincent Felicano Jr. mentions, “We all have a spirit that is to 97779 or follow us on Facebook @youthspiritprogram sw d bš qyuuqs News 19 e e

Being Your Own Emergency Manager • Local maps When a natural disaster strikes, who • Cell phone with chargers and a will be the person in charge of your backup battery well-being, safety, nourishment, and • Don’t forget your pets! If you survival? It’s you! YOU must take have them, you’ll need extra charge and be your own emergency water, pet food, and toys manager! Emergencies can happen anywhere and at any time, and Have an emergency everyone must act in order to be communications plan in place prepared.

How will you contact your family members if something happens and you’re separated? Share your plan Building a Disaster Kit The following items are recommended with neighbors, friends, and relatives additions to a basic emergency supply so they know how to contact you if kit. Store items in airtight plastic bags there is no power. and put your entire supplies in one or two easy-to-carry containers, such Map your resources Develop a map of resources around as plastic bins or duffel bags. where you live and work so members of your support network who are • Water: One gallon of water per person per day for at least three unfamiliar with your neighborhood days for drinking and sanitation. can find and get what is needed. You may want to include nearby places to A normally active person needs to drink about three quarters of a buy food and water. Also, include fire, gallon of water or other beverage police, and other city agencies, as well as local apartment/commercial daily. However, individual needs buildings with their own sources of vary with age, health, physical power should the citywide/town-wide condition, activity, diet, and power be out. climate.

• Food: At least a three-days and Get support from others up to two weeks supply of nonAsk others about what they will do to perishable food per person support you in an emergency. If you • Battery-powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio are a person who relies on dialysis, what will your provider do if there is with tone alert an emergency? If you rely on home • Flashlight care or deliveries, such as Meals • Extra batteries on Wheels, ask about emergency • First aid kit notifications and their plan to maintain • Whistle to signal for help services. If you use paratransit, find • Dust mask to help filter out their plans for providing service contaminated air in an emergency. If you use oxygen • Plastic sheeting and duct tape or other life-sustaining medical to shelter-in-place • Moist towelettes, garbage bags, equipment, show friends how to use these devices so they can move you and plastic ties for personal or help you evacuate if needed. sanitation • Wrench or pliers to turn off Practice your plan with the people in utilities your personal support network!

• Manual can opener for food 20 sw d bš qyuuqs News

Keep assistive devices and equipment ready to go Consider having an extra battery on a trickle charger if you use a power wheelchair or scooter. If available, have a lightweight manual wheelchair for backup and extra chargers and charging cables for assistive devices.

Make sure you have access to important documents Collect and safeguard all your critical documents. Store electronic copies on a password-protected thumb drive and in the “cloud.” If you feel comfortable, give a copy to a trusted relative or friend outside your area.

WATER TIPS • Never ration drinking water unless ordered to do so by authorities. Drink the amount you need today and try to find more for tomorrow. Minimize the amount of water your body needs by reducing activity and staying cool.

• Drink water that you know is not contaminated first. If necessary, suspicious water, such as cloudy water from regular faucets or water from streams or ponds, can be used after it has been treated.

If water treatment is not possible, put off drinking suspicious water as long as possible, but do not become dehydrated.

• Do not drink carbonated or caffeinated beverages instead of drinking water. Caffeinated drinks and alcohol dehydrate the body, which increases the need for drinking water.

Source: Fema.gov/blog/2015-04-29/ everyone-must-be-prepared-emergencies

e e

sw d bš qyuuqs News

21

e e

July 6, 2009 Canoe Shed Blessing Swinomish Tribal Archive From the Tribal Archive

The History of the Swinomish Canoe Sheds Theresa L. Trebon, Swinomish Tribal Archive

As the canoe pulling season winds down it seems fitting to note the tenth anniversary of the Swinomish Canoe Shed, dedicated on June 6, 2009. The completion of the building on the corner of Snee-Oosh and Smokehouse roads fulfilled a yearslong dream to have a dedicated building to house the Tribe’s canoes.

some were stored in the Tribe’s Swinomish Hall, the precursor to the American Hall. Built in 1925, Swinomish Hall burned to the ground just two years later. The Puget Sound Mail reported, “A number of canoes and Indian relics which had been stored in the attic of the building were also lost in the fire.”

Where did Swinomish store its canoes before the 2009 Canoe Shed? Old photos show canoes pulled up directly on the village beach in the early years of the 1900s. By the mid-1920s, however,

It was most likely after that fire that a large canoe shed was built on the beach on the north side of the Morris Street Bridge. Nothing is known about this building including when it was built or

22 sw d bš qyuuqs News

when it was demolished, but it is figured prominently in this well known 1938 photo of tribal leaders standing on the bridge.

In 1937, Swinomish constructed the “Web Shed” near the shore in what is today’s Shelter Bay, a structure to service the Tribe’s fish trap off West Beach. After the canoe shed (seen in the 1938 photo of the Morris Street Bridge) was demolished, the Web Shed took on a dual function for the Tribe and began housing canoes— but only for a while. In 1963, the Tribe’s fish trap foreman went to the Tribal Senate to complain that “the

e e

In 1970, the Web Shed was relocated to a lot near American Hall where it was used as a classroom for Manpower Development and Training. Ivan Willup Sr. recalls teaching engine repair to tribal members there. When American Hall was torn down for the new Social Services Building in 1977, the Tribe relocated the Web Shed again, this time to the corner of

Moorage Way and Front Street.

By this point the tribal fish trap’s operation was almost non-existent and canoes were again stored in the forty-year-old building.

James finally demolished it in 2010, for everyone’s safety. As he dismantled the building the nose of the old canoe that had been buried under debris decades earlier was found. It along with a portion of In the late 1980s the Web Shed one wall of the building and a roof partially collapsed in a severe beam that someone painted “1937” windstorm. According to Brian on have been preserved for future Porter, the building had been historical exhibits. weakened structurally by the removal of some critical struts in Luckily for the other canoes, a new the interior so that more canoes building had been built the year could be fit in there for storage. before which still houses the Tribe’s Porter managed to save all the diverse collection. canoes except one that was under too much debris. Thereafter canoes The children at the Canoe Shed were stored at the Smokehouse. dedication in 2009 are now young adults. Although only some of them Plans to renovate the old Web are active in racing canoes and Shed came and went in the coming during the Tribal Canoe Journeys, years, but the building was falling they are all part of the history of the down by 2005. Another windstorm Tribe’s Canoe Shed. soon collapsed the structure and Swinomish Tribal member Loran

1967 Web House Swinomish Tribal Archive

2010 Web Shed being demolished

by Loran James Swinomish Tribal Archive

sw d bš qyuuqs News 23 e e

race canoes were taking too much room and hindering trap men with their work in the Web House.” He requested that a new place should be found. Tandy Wilbur Jr. suggested that “the canoes be moved to our new warehouse, be locked, and not to be let out until a payment to help defray expenses be paid by the owner” and the Senate agreed. That “new warehouse” appears to have been where the Swinomish Fish Plant stands today.

Science Corner

Community Environmental Health

Clam Survey

Anna Cook and Chloe Edwards, Community Environmental Health Program

Swinomish Tribal members Chloe Edwards (left) and Anna Cook (right) coming back from a long day clam digging.

JULY 31 –– Chloe is a Swinomish youth worker for the Community Environmental Health (CEH) program and I am a part of the AmeriCorps VISTA program working as a Native Food Sovereignty Summer Associate, also in the CEH program.

While some of us were beyond knee deep in mud as we walked from flag to flag, we still had a great time digging clams. It was interesting to see what kinds of critters live amongst us in the Salish Sea.

Chloe and I mainly dug up cockles, along with a few butter clams and a single horse clam. The beach was also filled Chloe and I went to Blowers Bluff located on Whidbey with mussel beds that provided sanctuary for rest from Island as part of our summer program learning experience. trudging through the mud. Something neat that we found Swinomish Fisheries often holds clam surveys in and washed up in the low tide were two skeletons of longnose around Skagit Bay to monitor clam reproduction and skates. The seemingly stingray look-alike creatures are Michal Heidt, one of our CEH supervisors, asked us if we actually quite common in our Salish Sea waters—but it wanted to participate in this particular one and we both was interesting to find them laying so close to one another eagerly agreed. in the low tide with only their skeletons remaining.

The sun came out from hiding upon arrival and warmed us up for a long day in the water. Fisheries staff Lindy Hunter and Courtney Greiner were our main leaders on this excursion and they put flags up where we were to dig.

As Chloe and I and the rest of the crew made our way to the flags we often found ourselves caught in sinking mud caused by the great number of ghost shrimp.

24 sw d bš qyuuqs News

The day was a learning experience for both of us and we thoroughly enjoyed our time working with different departments in an effort to learn more about what is going on in our ocean. Chloe and I agree that we would be up for it again and highly recommend the opportunity if any Swinomish members are ever interested!

e e

sw d bš qyuuqs News 25 e e

The Clambake

AUGUST 22 –– The annual end-of-summer Swinomish Clambake brought the Swinomish Community and staff together for a meal of clams, mussels, oysters from Swinomish’s own oyster farm, salmon, corn, potatoes, salad, fry bread and a fresh berry dessert!

Swinomish elder, Francis Peters was honored at this year’s Clambake; his daughter, Darlene Peters wrote about her father’s life: sbabu? Francis Mitchell Peters is the son of the late Richard and Melinda Peters. He was born April 24, 1937. His Indian name, sbabu?, was his GreatGrandfather George Bob’s from Nooksack. He has been married to his beautiful wife, Beverly, for 59 years. They have 5 children, Cheryl, David, Jennifer, Darlene and Larry. Their sons are angels in heaven.

Francis and Beverly are proud grandparents and great-grandparents to 7 grandchildren and 4 greatgrandchildren.

There was also a sample table of other traditional foods, featuring camas, pickleweed, bladderwrack, salal berries and Indian Plum, along with blackberry infused water and salal leaf tea. Tribal member and Community Environmental Health staff Larry Campbell welcomed everyone, thanking them for attending the Clambake. Larry also explained how this annual event came to be, and why the Swinomish Community gathers for a meal at Lone Tree – to share and eat their traditional foods, just as our ancestors Francis has been a life long member of the Swinomish once did generations ago.

Indian Tribal Community. He attended La Conner Schools and completed the 10th grade. From 1973As stewards of the Earth, Swinomish departmental 1978 he served as a Tribal Senator. He also served as event organizers tried something new this year— a member on all of the committees, focusing primarily those who brought their own utensils, plates, and on those for the cemetery and veterans. water bottles received the opportunity to enter to win a number of raffle prizes. The Department of He was a committed and dedicated worker throughout Environmental Protection and Protect Mother Earth his life: 50 years as a commercial fisherman including 9 Subcommittee wanted to bring the sustainable way summers in Alaskan waters, 15 years as the Swinomish of being environmentally friendly to this event by Community Health Representative, 11 years at the P. reducing the use of single use utensils, plates and cups M. Northwest Refinery, 7 years as a farmhand, and an that end up in landfi ll. Food waste was separated to go untold number of years doing maintenance work for to a composter. the Tribe. He was in the United States Air Force for 4

Olivia and Kyle Bailey giving a prayer in Lushootseed at the Clambake

26 sw d bš qyuuqs News e e

years during the years of the Korean War. In addition, he served his community by working with grieving families for many years. He visited the bereaved and assisted them with the process of laying their loved ones to rest. He was the main speaker for many funerals.

Throughout life, Francis has avidly read cowboy books. In his younger days, he played baseball and basketball. He enjoyed his years of coaching basketball to Swinomish youth. He’s enjoyed going to gamble at the casino and at stick games, and traveling to the different tribes with the Swinomish Elders.

One of Francis’ specialties is carving fish sticks. He goes into the woods to gather the ironwood to create this essential tool. (You can see some of his sticks on display in the Carvers Café at the Casino.) He has prepared many a fish so that it could be barbequed and smoked for his family as well as for many Swinomish gatherings.

Swinomish elder, Francis Peters smiles at the remarks made by Chairman, Brian Cladoosby

sw d bš qyuuqs News 27 e e

Francis has lived as a member of the Swinomish Indian Community for the last 82 years, serving in many different roles, most importantly as a fish cook and assisting with the burial of loved ones. He enjoys traveling around the country with his family and making lasting memories with them. sbabu? raises his hands to the people of the Swinomish Indian Community for honoring him for his knowledge, wisdom and understanding of the Swinomish people, culture, and traditions.

Science Corner

Climate Changes in the Pacific Northwest Kelsey Larson, Air Quality Analyst

This is the second installment of a series focusing on the climate of the Pacific Northwest.

This month: How will the climate of the Pacific Northwest likely change in 10, 50, and 100 years?

Hello qyuuqs News reader, Previously I focused on the tilt of Earth’s axis, the position of where we are on the planet, how close we are to the ocean, how the winds transfer heat to the poles, and how the magnificent mountains control the climate of the Pacific Northwest. However, I left out a couple of important factors driving the changing climate that we hope to prepare for: the ocean temperature and the composition of the atmosphere.

stretching almost to Indonesia are warmer than average (and colder than average for La Niña). This anomaly influences the climate all over the world.

The Pacific Northwest usually witnesses abnormally warm winters during the El Niño (positive) phase and abnormally cold and wet winters during La Niña (negative) phase. While we understand ENSO’s influences climate, exactly why ENSO exists About 71 percent of Earth’s surface is still a mystery, which makes it is water. Any changes in the ocean difficult to prepare for. surface temperatures will influence the atmosphere and vice versa. A While ENSO (and similar phenomena) significant driver of two- to seven- are important for decadal or year changes in climate are due to smaller variations in climate, the changes in sea surface temperatures atmosphere’s composition controls in the North Atlantic and the Southern the overall thermostat. If the Earth did Pacific. not have an atmosphere, the mean temperature of the Earth would drop Does El Niño, La Niña, or El Niño/ by almost 60 degrees Fahrenheit! The Southern Oscillation (ENSO) ring any Earth would be more of a vast frozen bells? El Niño (de Navidad) was the tundra than what we see today. This term for wintertime warm sea surface change in temperature is because of conditions off the coast of Peru that greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, the local fishers named after the namely: water vapor, carbon dioxide, newborn Christ. methane, ozone, and nitrous oxide.

The “opposite” of El Niño is La Niña where conditions are cool. Now, we refer to the phenomena as ENSO or El Niño – Southern Oscillation. When ENSO is in a “positive” or El Niño phase, the Pacific Ocean sea surface temperatures just west of Peru 28 sw d bš qyuuqs News

These gases allow energy from the Sun to transfer energy (as light) to Earth but do not allow energy (also as light) from the Earth’s surface to escape back to space.

It is no secret that humans are

burning fossil fuels. As a result of this, carbon dioxide is released to the atmosphere in large quantities. This increases the overall temperature (or energy) in the atmosphere globally and climate scientists try to represent these changes using complex models of the Earth system. How we go about preparing for these changes is difficult; the Earth-atmosphereocean system is complex. We attempt to predict these changes through climate models. Nevertheless, if we want to use these models to prepare for the future, we need to know their limitations.

How will the climate change in the next 10, 50, and 100 years? In the short term (next 10 years), the biggest force on the climate in the Pacific Northwest year-to-year will still be ENSO (warmer than average winters in the Pacific Northwest).

However, how ENSO will change under increasing carbon dioxide concentrations is unknown.

In 50 to 100 years, the international scientific community is very confident that temperatures will rise globally 0.3 to 4.8 degrees Celsius by the late 21st century. The temperature has already risen one degree Celsius due to carbon dioxide increases. Between 2030 and 2050, the International Panel on Climate Change predicts the global mean temperature will exceed

e e

1.5 degrees Celsius, the globally recognized goal from the Paris Agreement.

Generally, with added energy in the system, the wet regions will get wetter and the dry regions will get drier; the extremes will become more extreme. The more carbon dioxide, the more extreme.

In the Pacific Northwest, the temperature on average will rise between 3 degrees Fahrenheit and 6 degrees Fahrenheit with slightly less warming in the fall than the other seasons. The number of days with the temperature greater than 90 degrees Fahrenheit will increase by eight days in the Pacific Northwest.

While precipitation changes are harder to predict than temperature changes, a consistent feature across climate models is that the summer precipitation is projected to decrease by as much as 30 percent by the end of the century; this will lead to low streamflow and greater extent of wildfires throughout the Pacific Northwest.

In addition, the number of days with precipitation greater than one inch will increase by 13 percent. This increases the likelihood of floods or landslides. Obviously, these changes will affect the reservation.

PACIFIC NORTHWEST CLIMATE SERIES Next month: Part 3 of 3, How will these changes impact the Swinomish Tribal Community? sw d bĹĄ qyuuqs News 29 e e

Hunting & Gathering Tribal Youth Initiative Grant Supports Young Professionals in Natural Resource Management Leslie Parks, Wildlife Science Technician; Photo by Swinomish Fisheries Department

A note from Mariah!

My name is Mariah Holiday, my indigenous roots stem from the Diné (Navajo) Tribe. I am originally from Monument Valley, Utah but currently live in Bellingham. Throughout the Diné (Navajo) community we understand each other’s backgrounds by introducing ourselves with our four birthgiven clans. I am Red Running into Water Clan (Nóóda’íDine’éTáchii’nii) born for the Black Sheep Clan (Díbéłzhíní); my maternal grandfather is of the Many Goats People Clan (Tł’izílání) and my paternal grandfather is of the Folded Arm People Clan (Bit’ahnii).

I am a 2018 graduate from the Northwest Indian College’s Bachelors of Native Environmental Science program. This summer I am assisting the Hunting & Gathering Program as they build the platform of knowledge of wildlife that we coexist with throughout Swinomish territory and Skagit Valley. This process is vital to preserve wildlife and resources used by the Swinomish Tribe for cultural purposes and sustenance.

The migration patterns of wildlife significantly coincide Mariah Holiday assists the Fisheries Department with a clam survey. with traditional seasons of harvesting, ceremonies, and changing landscapes. Traditional knowledge of the environment has always been a determining The Hunting & Gathering Program is pleased to introduce approach to sustaining and prospering Indigenous Mariah Holiday, the first of four interns supported by the communities. With this understanding, I am honored grant funded by the Bureau of Indian Affairs Tribal Youth to help build on these concepts through my time as an Initiative Program to engage young tribal members in intern at Swinomish Indian Tribal Community. natural resource management, Exploring careers in wildlife management with the Swinomish Indian Tribal Community.

Are you interested in interning with the With these paid internships, the Hunting & Gathering Program has the opportunity to offer young tribal members in the natural resources field mentorship, valuable research skills, and networking connections. You can find Mariah tracking deer and elk in the field, analyzing photos from trail cameras, monitoring the whereabouts of the American black bear recently sighted on the reservation, or assisting other Swinomish natural resources departments and wildlife co-managers.

30 sw d bš qyuuqs News

Swinomish Hunting & Gathering Program?

We have funding for three part-time internships spanning the 2019-2020 academic year to accommodate applicants currently enrolled in local colleges. Applicants must be 18-25 years of age and a member of a federally recognized tribe. Please direct questions about future internship opportunities to Leslie Parks: lparks@swinomish.nsn.us.

e e

BEING PREPARED FOR A MARINE OIL SPILL Kevin Anderson, Environmental Management Specialist

The Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) is coordinating a multi-department effort to “deepen the bench” in oil spill preparedness. Using grants from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Department of Ecology, DEP has provided training, tools, and equipment to several tribal departments.

DEP has most recently worked with the Swinomish Fish and Game Enforcement to prepare for spills.

They have been honing their oil spill preparedness skills through classroom training and test deployments of boom, which are floating curtains used to exclude or deflect oil from sensitive areas.

Fish and Game Enforcement can play a key role in marine oil spills; their first-hand knowledge of local waters and rapid deployment capacity are essential to preventing harm from an oil spill.

In June, they tested out a new spill control trailer provided by a Department of Ecology grant in June.

The canary yellow spill trailer contains the essential tools to prevent oils from fouling Swinomish shores.

Most importantly, the trailer contains 700 feet of containment boom.

This trailer is stationed at the Fish Plant for rapid deployment. It has a twin trailer stationed at the Fire Department. Both of these trailers, and several others stationed around the reservation are available to responders around the clock. DEP staff maintains these trailers and hopes there is never a need to use them.

On one of the hottest days in recent memory, the Fish and Game Enforcement, Swinomish Police Department, and DEP staff had a chance to pull and set boom at Snee-oosh Beach. This exercise simulated how to protect a boat ramp from getting oiled and also underscored how even under ideal conditions, deploying boom can be challenging.

sw d bš qyuuqs News e e

Though we hope it never happens, we need to prepare for marine oil spills. Swinomish is at a crossroads for marine, rail, and terrestrial oil transportation. The Swinomish Reservation has nearly 27 miles of shoreline and thousands of acres of tidelands—every foot of these shores are sensitive and important to protect.

31

CONGRATULATIONS AND THANKS, LARRY! Amy Trainer, Environmental Policy Director

MEET YOUR WILD NEIGHBORS: The American Black Bear Leslie Parks, Wildlife Science Technician

This sow was photographed with two cubs.

Photo by Swinomish Hunting & Gathering

'Chief' Larry Wasserman

The American black bear is a common yet rarely seen resident of Western Washington forests. Black bears are omnivores that adapt their diet seasonally to consume grasses, berries, insects, nuts, fish, and small animals.

Their sense of smell is exceptional, making the black bear a skilled scavenger.

Summer and fall are critical for black bears to accumulate fat as they den during the harsher winter months (midOctober to April) when forage is limited. Female bears (sows) give birth to 1-2 cubs in the late winter while in the den. Cubs will stay with sows for over a year, learning important survival skills, before striking out to establish a new home range. Sows can live to be up to 18 years of age, while male bears (boars) typically have a shorter Also known as “Chief,” Larry’s strategic approach led to lifespan. Black bears typically weigh between 100-300 an incredible record of success protecting salmon habitat pounds, standing 2.5-3 feet at the shoulder. and tribal fisheries. It’s a little quieter in the Fisheries Building these days without Larry’s booming voice around, Humans can help keep black bears wild by limiting access but when he’s not fly fishing he will be back to do a little to human food, garbage, and pet food when living in work on culverts and water law. Now that Larry is (mostly) or visiting bear territory. Additionally, supporting large retired, he can rest assured that his parting advice “to tracts of interconnected, wild landscapes ensures black keep our eye on the prize” won’t soon be forgotten as we bear populations have enough space to find natural food work to carry on his remarkable legacy. sources.

AUGUST 21 — Over a hundred well-wishers joined Chairman Cladoosby, Senators, Swinomish and SRSC staff and friends at the Swinomish Casino & Lodge on August 21 to raise our hands and say a heartfelt “thank you” to outgoing Environmental Policy Director Larry Wasserman.

Congratulations, and thanks Larry!

32 sw d bš qyuuqs News

Please visit the following website for information on preventing conflict with bears: wdfw.wa.gov/specieshabitats/species/ursus-americanus#conflict

e e

Youth Center Summer Outing at the Flats Photos by Lauren Reynolds

SYRINGE DISPOSAL SITES Snee Oosh Road

Swinomish Medical Clinic

Kee-Ah Road

Avenue A

Fron t St

reet

way Park Pion

eer

Firs

Stre nd Sec o

Solahdwh Lane

sw d bš qyuuqs News 33 e e

et

t Str

eet

Swinomish Avenue

Reserv ation R oad

Protect the health of our community by safely disposing of used syringes in designated syringe disposal boxes, now located on Solahdwh Lane and behind the Swinomish Medical Clinic. Knock on the back door of the Medical Clinic for a quick, confidential supply of clean needles.

Science Corner

Protect Your Groundwater Day 2019 Karen J.R Mitchell, Hydrologist

Protect Your Groundwater Day, a yearly observance established by the National Ground Water Association to promote responsible development, management, and use of groundwater, is September 3. If this day sounds familiar, it should! The Swinomish Groundwater Program within the Department of Environmental Protection has promoted Protect Your Groundwater Day in the qyuuqs for the past several years, reminding you of things you can do to conserve water and prevent groundwater contamination.

You might be thinking, “I don’t have to worry about protecting groundwater; I don’t have a well. My water comes from the Swinomish Utilities.” Just because your drinking water doesn’t come from your own well doesn’t mean you can’t, or shouldn’t, take action to protect groundwater. In the water world, everything connects.

While the water that Swinomish Utilities delivers to homes isn’t groundwater (it comes from the Skagit River via the City of Anacortes water treatment plant near Mount Vernon), it may well have been groundwater before it made it into the Skagit River. The water in local creeks and rivers comes from two main sources: runoff of rainwater or snowmelt in the upper areas of the Skagit River watershed and groundwater. The groundwater component is commonly called “baseflow” because it contributes a base level of flow year-round.

We monitor streamflow at constructed flumes, like the one shown in this picture, at each of the four named creeks.

Reservation since 1999. We monitor those flows so we can better understand how our streams and our aquifers are related, and so we can be prepared for any changes in water availability as land use or climate patterns change.

Our goal is to make sure that, whatever changes may come, we are better prepared to meet the water needs of the people, animals, and plants that live here.

You can help!

Conserving water, especially during the dry season and droughts, helps keep water in our rivers and creeks for fish and other aquatic resources. If you can resist, don’t water those brown lawns–they’ll bounce back when the rains return. If you feel like you need to water, water early in the morning or late in the day so the water you apply goes to the plants and not to evaporation. Consider soaker hoses or drip systems for gardens so you can use less water by delivering it right where the plants need it. And while you’re at it, don’t forget to keep that water clean. Only use chemicals on your lawn and garden when needed and in the recommended amount so they don’t end up polluting our groundwater and surface waters.

It is still early in August as I write this article and we’re in the middle of a hot streak with daily temperatures in the 80s. Lone Tree Creek is dry, as it is every summer, and the other reservation creeks and the Skagit River are running low, relying on that groundwater baseflow. In the summer, when there is no rain to runoff to our streams, the flow in our reservation’s creeks is entirely from groundwater.

Lone Tree Creek goes dry each year because it has no springs feeding it, so when the rain stops the creek also stops. The other reservation creeks do have springs providing baseflow, so they don’t go completely dry so long as groundwater levels stay high enough to support Want more water saving tips? Check out watereducation. the springs. If groundwater levels drop, stream levels also org/post/water-conservation-tips. If you want to know fall, along with water levels in wetlands. more about what the groundwater program here at Swinomish and what we are doing to monitor reservation The Swinomish Groundwater Program has been monitoring waters, feel free to reach out to us! Email Karen Mitchell stream flows at each of the four named creeks on the at kmitchell@swinomish.nsn.us or call (360) 588.2728.

34 sw d bš qyuuqs News e e

Marijuana may be legal at Swinomish, but using it comes with great responsibility. If you choose to use, educate yourself on marijuana laws and its effects for a safe experience, every time.

• Marijuana may only be purchased at a Swinomish Tribal Enterprises outlet or state-licensed retail store.

• The legal age for the purchase, possesion, or consumption of marijuana on Swinomish lands is age 21 and older.

• It is a felony for anyone, including parents, to provide marijuana to minors and/or allow them to use.

• It is illegal to consume marijuana on public property or anywhere in view of the public.

• It is illegal to drive under the influence of marijuana Do not mix marijuana with other intoxicants, and talk to your doctor about the effect it can have if you are taking prescription medications.

• Safely store your supply by locking it up and keeping it out of reach. Keep in mind that “safe storage” will look different depending on the ages of the people you live with.

• Be aware of your surroundings. If you choose to smoke, remember that marijuana smoke contains many of the same chemicals as tobacco smoke; be mindful of those around you who don’t want to be exposed, particularly pregnant women, children, and elders.

sw d bš qyuuqs News 35 e e

Mrs. V’s 2 Cents Diane Vendiola

We are nearing the completion of our summer season for this year. Personally, this summer marks my 82nd one.

Summertime throughout my lifetime is and continues to be a time of generativity, which is, according to the dictionary, “a concern for people besides self and family that usually develops during middle age; especially a need to nurture and guide younger people and contribute to the next generation.”

When I was a young kid my mother and father would travel from Seattle to visit Ganga and Christine and Auntie Aurelia and Auntie Agatha right here at Swinomish. A visit typically meant we lived with Ganga and Christine for several weeks until summer was at its end. My grandparents and aunts did a lot of nurturing and guided me towards knowing how I might contribute to the world, should I choose to prepare myself to go in that direction.

As my kids grew up and left home to go to school, my husband and I spent our summers traveling to see them to make sure they were alright, wherever they were. We also had time to visit my Hawaiian relatives and go places we were interested in learning about, like the Kennedy Space Center in Florida. We worked on our love of learning and keeping our connectivity to each other strong as we shared our stories with one another and during our summer get-togethers.

Later on, as elders, we were fortunate to be able to travel to visit our grandchildren who lived nearby in Lummi and Tulalip and as far away as Shoshone Country in Fallon, Nevada. We were privileged to connect with a whole new set of family in Fallon who were proud to share their history and stories of place with us. My grandchildren were major support for me when my mate passed away after 44 years of marriage. I have been there for them too, and helped to celebrate their graduations from high My late husband and I fished, gardened, and picked fruits school and college, as well as our Filipino celebration of and berries with our five kids and went camping all over introduction to womanhood for my two granddaughters.

Washington. My husband especially loved Neah Bay. I believe that Neah Bay reminded him of his homeland in My Lummi relatives traveled to Swinomish to celebrate Hawaii. Packing and preparation for those camping trips my retirement and my 80th Birthday, which was two years took much effort on my part since my husband was busy ago now. My family and I practice what we believe. We readying our old station wagon for travel. have lived, learned, and gone through changes with each other. We do our annual ceremony and I still make my I don’t think I have the stamina to do it now, but I packed annual apple plus blackberry cobbler, my Dia De la Muerte tons of paper towels, bug spray, sunscreen, a tablecloth Altar, and help in the celebrations of each of my grands for our picnic table, roasting sticks, citronella candles, a birthdays. Last year I became a great-grandmother! The couple of squirt guns, a lantern, extra flashlights, garbage best part is hearing my grandsons repeat stories that I bags, dish soap (because we carried our own tin plates, told them when they were toddlers. cups, and spoons), a first aid kit, and card games. We also learned a whole lot of songs together, like “99 Bottles What I have learned is that preparedness is to recognize of Beer on the Wall,” “Take Me Out to the Ball Game,” that everything has its place, and everything has its “Michael,” “Row the Boat Ashore,” and “Puff the Magic season. Be aware of what is here, now, and what is Dragon,” to say nothing of “Row, Row, Row Your Boat.” coming and be in harmony with that knowledge.

My husband, kids, dogs and I supported one another and learned new things together during those summers—that seems like it was only yesterday.

36 sw d bš qyuuqs News e e

Attention Northwest Indian College Students!

Gaylene Gobert, Site Manager

FALL QUARTER BEGINS SEPTEMBER 16, 2019 Here's a checklist of tasks to do before you can register for classes this fall quarter: 1. Submit a Northwest Indian College Application for Admissions form. Applications may be requested by phone, mail, fax or e-mail. Call Gaylene Gobert, NWIC Site Manager at (360) 255.4435.

2. Submit a copy of your High School Diploma or GED with the completed Application for Admission.

3. Send a copy of your tribal certification with the completed Application for Admission. (If you do not have documentation, complete a Northwest Indian College Tribal Certification Release form and send it with your completed Application for Admission.)

4. Complete the Accuplacer test.

5. You can register for classes.

sw d bĹĄ qyuuqs News 37 e e

qyuuqs News

PRSRT STD US Postage Paid Permit #35 ANACORTES, WA

17337 Reservation Road La Conner, WA 98257 qyuuqs@swinomish.nsn.us

Recyclable Paper

OR CURRENT RESIDENT

I AM SWINOMISH. I WILL GRADUATE. Youth Center outing at the Deception Pass State Park Photo Courtesy of Katie Bassford