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OCT 2026 VOL. 60 No. 6

Generations of Gatherings and Youth Services | PG. 20

CONTENTS Editor's Note

Breast Cancer

Swinomish Election Board: Notice of Availability of Petitions For Nomination

Obituary: Val "Lucky" Strang-Sam

Obituary: Julie "Ann" Siddle

Obituary: Barbara Nancy Marks-McCoy + Obituary: Kenneth William Paul

Obituary: James "Jimmy" Raymond Wilbur

A Day of Leadership, Connection, and Community

Dental Clinic: Dental Therapy Cohort 4 Begins Program

Swinomish Dental at the American Dental Therapy Association Conference (ADTA)

Recreational Beach Monitoring Updates

Beating Breast Cancer: Candace Casey's Story

Nakesha Edwards Creates Installation for didgwalic Transitional Housing

Generations of Gatherings and Youth Services

Women's Health Week + Mind Your Mental Health Fair

March Against Addiction

Camas Burn

Clambake

Youth Sports + Basketball Court Renovation Kickoff Ceremony

Swinomish Days

Boys & Girls Club October Youth of the Month: Issac Wilbur

Paddle to Nisqually Swinomish Protocol

editor’s NOTE It must be fall; the beautiful foggy mornings are here! In this October issue we include events such as the Paddle to Nisqually Medicine Creek Potlach, Swinomish Days, the Clambake, and so much more! In the feature “Generations of Gatherings and Youth Services,” we’re taking you back to the time when the Tribe renovated the Susan Wilbur Early Education Center. Read the full article on PAGE 20. It is that time of year! The Swinomish Election Board announced the availability of petitions for nomination. You can read the official notice on PAGE 06.

To help bring important awareness to our community, we asked Tribal member Candace Casey to share her journey to overcome breast cancer. Please read her story on PAGE 17. We also featured Nakesha Edwards' recent art installation at didgʷálič Transitional Housing on PAGE 18. In the latest news, the basketball court is being renovated! Construction is happening now and will continue through the end of the year. The renovation kickoff ceremony is featured on PAGE 31. On a personal note, I started training for hunting season. I’ve been walking up a big hill every week since last spring! If you also started a health journey this year, I encourage you to keep up with those health regimes. You got this! Keep yourself and our community safe by getting vaccinated – illnesses spread quickly! The Tribe is hosting vaccine clinics throughout October. See the schedule on PAGE 07. Enjoy those beautiful fall days! goliahlitza Caroline Ammons

TRIBAL SENATE

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Steve Edwards, Chairman (360) 840-5768 | sedwards@swinomish.nsn.us

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Brian Porter, Vice Chairman (360) 840-4186 | bporter@swinomish.nsn.us

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Jeremy Wilbur, Treasurer (360) 770-7447 | jjwilbur@swinomish.nsn.us

The official news publication of the Swinomish Indian Tribal Community

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.

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QYUUQS MAILING ADDRESS 11406 Moorage Wa, La Conner, WA 98257 Phone (360) 466.7258

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*SUBMISSIONS Send your news tips, stories, and photos to: qyuuqs@swinomish.nsn.us

Rodney John, Secretary (360) 708-1387 | rjohn@swinomish.nsn.us Greg Edwards (360) 854-8612 | gedwards@swinomish.nsn.us

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Tandy Wilbur (360) 770-3050 | tandywilbur@swinomish.nsn.us

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Aurelia Bailey (360) 853-6376 | awashington@swinomish.nsn.us

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Barbara James (360) 391-3958 | bjames@swinomish.nsn.us

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Submission deadline: 10th day of the month QYUUQS NEWS Caroline Ammons, Editor qyuuqs@swinomish.nsn.us SWINOMISH COMMUNICATIONS Heather Mills, Communications Manager Sarah Kellogg, Content Journalist Katie Bassford, Staff Photographer Jordan Ekdahl, Graphic Designer LaVonne Long, Social Media Specialist communications@swinomish.nsn.us

Bruce James Jr. (360) 708-5779 | brucejames@swinomish.nsn.us

This issue is available online at swinomish-nsn.gov/who-we-are/page/ qyuuqs-news

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Facebook: Swinomish Senate Linkedin: Swinomish Indian Tribal Community

Alana Quintasket (360) 302-0971 | aquintasket@swinomish.nsn.us Fred Cayou (360) 708-2401 | fcayou@swinomish.nsn.us

Website: swinomish-nsn.gov @SwinomishSenate 4

*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.

BREAST CANCER SWINOMISH PUBLIC HEALTH

Did you know that 1 in 8 women in the U.S. will develop breast cancer in their lifetime? For Native American women, the risk is even higher. Native women are 7% more likely to develop breast cancer and are more likely to be diagnosed at a later stage, when it is harder to treat. The good news? Early detection can save lives. Here are a few ways to lower your risk and catch breast cancer early:

‣ Know your risk, including age, family history, and breast density ‣ Get regular mammograms ‣ Stay active and maintain a healthy weight ‣ Don’t smoke ‣ Limit alcohol You can learn more about breast cancer here: https://americanindiancancer.org/breast-cancer/ Learn your risk, get screened, and encourage the women in your life to do the same. Your awareness could help save a life.

NOTICE OF AVAILABILITY OF PETITIONS FOR NOMINATION In accordance with Swinomish Tribal Code Title 2 – Tribal Government, Chapter 1 – Elections, Section .120(A)(4), the Swinomish Election Board announces the availability of Petitions for Nomination. Petitions will be available from the Election Officer beginning Monday, October 19, 2026.

receipt submitted to the Election Officer at the time the voucher for the drug and alcohol test associated with the Petition for Nomination is obtained.

Terms Expiring:

Please contact the Election Officer with questions about this process. The Election Officer, Briana Porter, can be reached at (360) 466-7340 or at bnporter@swinomish. nsn.us or 11367 Moorage Way, La Conner, WA 98257.

Senate Seat 6 – Steve Edwards, Incumbent Senate Seat 7 – Aurelia Bailey, Incumbent In order to qualify for eligibility, in accordance with STC 2-01.120(D), a Potential Candidate “shall submit a $300 non-refundable candidate fee.” This fee shall be paid to the Tribal Accounting Department and a copy of the

The Closing Date for Petitions is Monday, November 16, 2026.

ANOTHER FUEL DISCOUNT EXTENSION!

To ease the burden of high fuel prices, the Tribal Senate has extended the Swinomish member fuel discount of $1 off per gallon to JANUARY 5, 2027.

COMMUNITY HAPPENINGS

OCTOBER 21 Community Update Meeting: Fisheries + Hunting, 6-7 p.m. Senate Chamber or Teams OCTOBER 23 Medicare Open Enrollment Assistance, 10 a.m.- 2 p.m. Senior Center OCTOBER 28 Community Dinner, 6p.m. Boys & Girls Club OCTOBER 30 Elders' Haunted House, 3-6 p.m. Senior Center Halloween Party, 4-8 p.m. Boys & Girls Club

VACCINE CLINICS October 20

11 a.m.-1 p.m., Senior Center

October 26

12-2 p.m., Social Services

OBITUARY

VAL "LUCKY" STRANG-SAM MAY 14, 1962-JULY 22, 2026

Our “Lucky” was born Valerie Jean Sam on May 14, 1962, in Seattle, Washington to James Sams and Elsie Brown, where she spent her childhood. She left us all too soon on July 22, 1962. Those who knew and loved her describe her as fierce (mama bear), feisty, strong, independent, and kind. She opened her home to family and friends whether she was living in Germany, New Mexico, Reno and Chicago. She returned to her Swinomish people in 1998 to raise her daughter amongst her family and people here at Swinomish, enriching the lives of those who knew her. Beading was one of her greatest passions, and she loved her wide spectrum of music. She was definitely our village Cat Lady, loving her fur babies of which there were many. She collected movies and CDs and enjoyed making tapes for her brother to listen to. She enjoyed time spent at the casino, thrift shopping, doing her hair, nails, and makeup. She worked as a CNA for many years, she also found employment as a housekeeper, cook, dishwasher, and a bartender. Her laugh was quite infectious and one of the ways you knew she was in the building. Nearly everything changed for Lucky when she lost her father in 2020; she was always a daddy’s girl and they were extremely close. We know they are beyond happy to be united again long with those she is proceeded in death: her maternal and paternal grandparents her mother, Elsie Brown her father, James Sams brothers: Wesley Brown and Jimi Sams, her very best friend: Shirley Phillips. She is survived by her daughter Cassie (Steven) Joe; 5 grandchildren: Zeb, Colllin, Armena, Helen, and Kashawna Joe. Her siblings: Kathy Sam, Jayme Sam, and Samantha Sam, numerous Nieces, Nephews, and friends.

AUGUST 6 – A hazy August morning on McClean Road 8

Just 2 days before her passing, her great-grand niece, Kaiya Faye Miller, was born. Astrologers would look at her chart and say she was born under a Lucky Star. She was, and we all know her Auntie Lucky will be watching over her throughout her life here on Earth. I love you mom!

OBITUARY

JULIE “ANN” SIDDLE She was born on January 21, 1959 in Mount Vernon, Washington to Irene Dan-Siddle (later Irene Anderson) and Calvin Siddle. Her dad was Swinomish and Muckleshoot Tribes and her mom was Swinomish. She was an enrolled member of the Swinomish Indian Tribal Community. She was 9 years old when her sister Margie married. She was a very forgiving person, but I am not sure that she ever forgave Margie for getting married the day after her birthday. She knew it was a plan to take the light away from her birthday. (Yes, sisterly love!) As a child when kids played musical instruments, she picked the clarinet. It may have been only a couple of years or so but music didn’t leave her soul. She loved to go cruising and rock out to the music of the 70’s and 80’s, like Rod Stewart and Bob Segar. As she grew older her and her brother David enjoyed the blues, they enjoyed the Winthrop Blues Festival with family and friends. She also loved her Shania Twain and country. “Let’s go girls!” As a young girl, she had a favorite purple dress with a skirt that flared out when you twirled. There was home movie of her twirling in front of the camera. Even when the camera wasn’t focused on her, she would walk by and dow her twirl. The younger girls were jealous (especially Myrna) and wanted a dress just like Anne’s. Her fashion sense of the 70’s changer from frilly dressed to bell bottom pants, tie dye, fringe, and headbands. The 70’s were the time period of the American Indian Movement (AIM). It was also the time period she was attending Chemawa Indian School. She was so impacted by this era that she named her and Vernon Cayou Sr.’s first daughter “Sacheen” Siddle. That’s when motherhood took hold. A few years later they had a second child, a boy the named James Cayou (Big Jim). He looked just like his Mom. So now there was a daughter that was and still is small and petite like her Dad and a son that was a Momma’s boy. He was a toddler when he left her arms and she had to find the strength to continue on for her daughter. Later on she had 4 more with Warren Fornsby. Each of the names of her children had meaning. Kimmy Siddle (named after the best friend she lost in a car accident); Sheena Elaine Fornsby (the middle name after her sister Margaret Elaine); Carene Fornsby (“Ca” from Calvin and “Rene” from Irene); Wayne Fornsby (named after her cousin also lost in the same car accident.).

were distributed in hotels, ferries, and travel agencies. She had many stories for her kids about the peopled she worked with. Anne loved playing softball and was first baseman. She played on both the girls’ team and mixed team, travelling to other tribal tournaments. She played until her fight with rheumatoid arthritis started. It did not stop her from going to the games and cheering on her family and friends. She continued her love for sports and always supported our home teams, the Seattle Mariners and Seahawks. Her son Wayne would get them tickets to the Mariners games, and they would make the trip to Seattle. Anne was very proud to be Indian and always respected and honored the “Indian Way”. As a young girl she and her sister belonged to the Swinomish traditional dance group. Their dad built the float that they used for parades. They even won a grand prize. She was baptized Catholic but was not a stranger to the Shaker Church and loved the prayers of Brother Doug York. She had a respect for each of the Denominations on the reservation and respected each of the “Prayer Warriors”. Julie “Ann” Siddle is survived by her children, Sacheen McCoy (Charlie), Kimmy Siddle, Sheena Fornsby, Carene Fornsby (John Cook III), and Wayne Fornsby; grandchildren, Ashlee Siddle, Danika McCoy, Charles McCoy Jr., Jimiah Fornsby, Ryleigh Fornsby Cook, Jaxson Fornsby Cook, Xoi Fornsby Cook and many more; sibling, Margie Jamison (Ernie), step siblings from the Anderson Family from Muckleshoot, Debbie Anderson, Pam Jackson (Wally), Denis Anderson (Rose); godchildren, Jason Jamison (Laurie), Jordan Stone, Lewis James, and Bonnie Fornsby. She is proceeded in death by her son James (Big James) Cayou; parents Irene Anderson (Richard Anderson), Calvin Siddle; brothers Johnny Siddle, David “Snakes” Siddle, and many other Swinomish and Muckleshoot family members.

In 83’ she started working at the Swinomish Bingo Hall. Sacheen worked there too for a little while with her mom. Sacheen was pregnant with Ashlee. Anne was also pregnant with Wayne. She told Sacheen that she couldn’t let her do it by herself! Her moment of fame was when they used her picture on the marketing flyers that 9

OBITUARY

BARBARA NANCY MARKS-MCCOY Barbara Nancy Marks McCoy, Sa quam el wet, passed away peacefully at her home on August 7, 2026. Her husband Joe and her children stayed at her bedside with lots of prayers until she made her transition to the other side. Barbara Marks was born on July 1, 1950, in Vancouver B.C. She grew up on the Musqueam Reservation with her parents Daniel and Mabel Dan and her 14 siblings. She attended Trafalgar Schools in Vancouver B.C. At the age of 18 years old she was blessed to become a mom to her oldest son Danny, and then came John Owen, Wayne and finally her baby girl Melissa. She was the best mom anyone could have asked for. Barb always done her best to provide and have a stable home for her children. In 1989, she moved to the Swinomish Reservation and made this their permanent place. Barb worked many jobs as a young lady, including fish cannery, the Post Office and the Salish Weaving Project. Her most satisfying job was at Swinomish Health Clinic as a CHR, providing rides for our people so they could get to their appointments. During this time, she met the love of her life Joseph McCoy Sr. They were married on March 18, 1995. Together they raised many children through the foster care system. They opened their home to many Native children who had nowhere to go. The love and compassion of a mother goes beyond biology and this was shown many times by “Mom Barb”. Barb was a member of the Swinomish Smokehouse Organization, Indian Road Smokehouse and supporter of the 1910 Shaker Church. She was dedicated to her wintertime ceremonies. Her life of seyown began on February 2, 1969. She had many seyown children, she OBITUARY

KENNETH WILLIAM PAUL Kenneth William Paul, 69, passed away peacefully at his home in Fallon, NV, on August 4, 2026, after a courageous battle with lung, liver, and colon cancer. Born on March 3, 1957, Kenneth lived a life of service, faith, and dedication. A funeral service was held on Monday, August 24, 2026, at the Fernley Boys & Girls Club. Following the service, Kenneth will be laid to rest with military honors at the Fernley Veterans Cemetery. 10

loved them all as if they were her own. Barb was a master wool weaver, and many of her priceless pieces have been shared at the Royal B.C. Museum, local museums and all over the world. She was fortunate to have the teachings of her mom to knit and crochet, her sweaters, hats and leggings are utilized year-round. She also loved to travel, to stickgames, round drum pow wows, casinos, bingo and elders’ trips. She attended culture night every Monday with Spe’cum. The songs brought healing to her. Her family and her prayers were the root of her happiness. Barbara is preceded in death by her parents Daniel and Mable Dan, Grandparents Andrew and Christine Charles, her granddaughter Kelsey Marie-Cayou. She is survived by her husband Joseph McCoy Sr., sons Dan (Mona), John (Tina), Wayne (Janel), Danny (Georgina), daughters Melissa (Sonny) Marks-Jack, Miranda (Mike) Conca, Spe’cum Charles. Sisters Georgina Crocker and Maryann Norris, 25 grandchildren, 30 great grandchildren, 2 great great grandchildren, 3 God children, numerous nieces, nephews, family and friends. The family would like to show our gratitude to Janel Cayou, Betty Tesmacher, Dr. Johnson, Hospice Nurses, Skagit Vally Oncology Center.

OBITUARY

JAMES “JIMMY” RAYMOND WILBUR JANUARY 9, 1954 – SEPTEMBER 8, 2026

On September 8, 2026, Jimmy made his final journey. We have no doubt that his parents, his son, and the ancestors were there to greet him, and that he was welcomed with open arms by the Creator, with whom he shared a profound and intimate relationship. We can imagine the meeting: Jimmy with his great grin, the ancestors rejoicing, and cedar boughs aplenty. Jimmy was born in Mount Vernon on January 9, 1954, into a big, loving family. He was Swinomish, and Swinomish was always his home. His Indian name was yəx̌ ʔwəlaʔali, meaning “eagle perched on a cedar tree.” This name was gifted to him by Spirit. He was the son of Claude Wilbur Sr. and Marie Charles. His paternal grandparents were Tandy Wilbur Sr. and Laura Wilbur, and his maternal grandparents were Ray Charles and Agnes Charles. Jimmy was soft-spoken and thoughtful. He took his time before answering, used his words wisely, and never needed to raise his voice to be powerful. His family remembers that he never said no when someone asked for help. If you needed someone to cook fish, he came. If you needed to have a sweat, he poured water and prayed with you. If you needed something and he had it, he gave it to you—even if it was all the money rolled up in his pocket. Jimmy grew up fishing with his dad, digging clams with his grandma Agnes, and learning to live a Swinomish way of life. He danced in his grandma Laura’s dance troupe, raced canoes, hit home runs for his baseball team, and played basketball with the Wilbur family in the last-name tournaments. He graduated from La Conner High School in 1973 and later received a scholarship to attend Seattle University. Deep in his heart, Jimmy was a fisherman and hunter. He knew how to find the fish, clean and fillet them, barbecue them, and tend the fire. He lived according to the tides and seasons—fishing the Salmon Banks and Lone Tree Point, hunting, digging clams, and picking berries. You would often see him riding his bicycle with his fishing pole, heading off to catch his next fish.

his community, and honored his relatives. His closest collaborator was the Great Spirit. Jimmy sang on the big drum with the Skagit Valley Singers and belonged to the Swinomish Smokehouse for 28 years. He served as a Catholic deacon, spoke Lushootseed, and was known for offering cedar blessings—a tradition he helped bring back. As a cultural advocate for the Washington State Department of Corrections, Jimmy offered spiritual guidance and led sweat lodges for incarcerated Native people. He also worked with the Swinomish Mental Health Program, served on the Swinomish Tribal Senate from 1983 to 1993, and chaired the Swinomish Cultural Environment Committee. Jimmy’s life offers us a way forward: stay close to the water and land. Feed your relatives. Defend the rights of your people. Answer when someone needs you. Pray with those who are struggling. Speak carefully and from the heart. Jimmy was the father of Darlene “Summer” Jean Charles and Těqinin Douglas Wilbur, and the grandfather of Ryan Charles Day, Gavin Day, and Kason Joseph John Day. His godchild is Jonah Cook, and his godmother was Margaret (Coy) James, wife of Charles James. Jimmy was previously married to Annette J Penny, who is Nez Perce. He was preceded in death by his parents; his son, Těqinin; his grandson, Kason; and his siblings Lisa Wilbur and Claude Wilbur Jr. Jimmy is survived by his daughter, Summer; his grandsons Ryan and Gavin; his siblings Laural Ballew (Tim Ballew), Ileta Meyers (Linus), and Lona “ska je tah lo” Wilbur (Ian Kanair); his godchild, Jonah; his many cousins, nieces, nephews, and community members; and his former fiancée, Maggie Wilder. We will look for Jimmy in the cedar boughs, in the songs around the big drum, and wherever an eagle perches close to home.

Jimmy lived his treaty rights with courage. Even when threatened with guns, he continued digging clams at Kukutali. He insisted upon living the rights his ancestors protected for future generations. His activism was found in the steady act of living as a Swinomish man on his own homelands.

A Catholic prayer service was held at 6:00 p.m. on Friday, September 11, 2026. A Catholic Mass and funeral service was held at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, September 12, 2026. Both services took place at the Swinomish Social Services Building, 17337 Reservation Road, La Conner, Washington 98257.

Some might even say Jimmy was a “professional Indian”— that if being Indian could be a job, it was Jimmy’s work. He fished, hunted, gathered, sang, prayed, cared for

You may offer your condolences and share memories of Jimmy with his family online at kernfuneralhome.com. 11

A Day of Leadership, Connection, and Community DIDGWALIC WELLNESS CENTER

AUGUST 13 – Swinomish leadership welcomed U.S. Rep. Rick Larsen for a visit filled with meaningful conversation, community connection, and an opportunity to share the work happening here at home. Larsen took the time to visit the didgʷálič Transitional Housing Program, where Holle Edwards shared the heart of the program and the services available to our people. He also toured one of the apartments, providing a firsthand look at how didgʷálič is creating safe, supportive spaces and helping people move toward greater stability and opportunity. The visit was more than a tour – it was a chance to put faces and stories to the work happening here every day. The Swinomish Senators in attendance had the opportunity to share their perspectives and talk about the positive difference these programs and services are making in the lives of our people. These conversations matter. They give us a chance to celebrate what our community has accomplished, talk honestly about the work still ahead, and make

AUGUST 5 – March Against Addiction 12

sure our state and federal elected leaders see the strength, commitment, and vision that continue to move Swinomish forward. Proud of our work. Proud of our people. Proud of the future we are building together.

Out of respect of the family, the SWINOMISH PREPAREDNESS FAIR scheduled for Thursday, October 15, 5-8 p.m. is Cancelled. The annual Great ShakeOut is still happening! The tsunami warning sirens on the reservation and elsewhere will sound at 10:15 AM – THIS IS ONLY A TEST.

Dental Clinic Welcome to our newest dəxʷx̌ ayəbus Dental Therapy program students – Cohort 4. This class is at capacity with 12 students! While the program classes started in July, most of the students completed their general education courses already and will begin their inperson studies this fall.

The dəxʷx̌ ayəbus Dental Therapy program is accessible and diverse, with students ranging from high school graduates to bachelor’s degree recipients. This cohort is comprised of working professionals, with 83% of them already working in the field as dental assistants, expanded function dental assistants, or registered dental hygienists. This means they are already oral advocates and champions! Half of the cohort is male. This is a big deal because only one male has graduated from the program to date.

Class of 2029

Cohort 4 Demographics Table

DENTAL THERAPY COHORT 4 BEGINS PROGRAM

Dhaya Aleck, Yakama Nation (Washington) Jane Chmelik (Washington) Fabian Delgado (Washington) Zachary Greiner (Vermont) Jose Guzman (Oregon) Isaac Han (Colorado) Fatima Ibrahim (Michigan) Lily McLeod, Samish Indian Nation (Washington) David “Dion” Napoleon, Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians (Oregon) Chandler Potter (Vermont) Brisa Sala (Oregon) Daniela Villamar (Florida)

Native American Asian Caucasian Hispanic/Latino Non-Hispanic Washingtonian Other States English Only >1 Language Military (Spouse/Veteran) Non-Military Female Male Highschool Associates Bachelors Dental Hygienist (RDH) Expanded Function DA (EFDA) Dental Assistant (DA) Non-dental Family Household Single Household

3 3 6 3 9 4 8 5 7 4 8 6 6 2 5 5 3 2 5 2 6 6

Cohort 4 Demographics Bar Graph Native American Asian Caucasian Hispanic/Latino Non-Hispanic Washingtonian Other States English Only >1 Langauge Military (Spouse/Veteran) Non-Military Female Male Highschool Associates Bachelors Dental Hygienist (RDH) Expanded Function DA (EFDA) Dental Assistant (DA) Non-dental Family Household Single Household

Count

Dental Therapy Cohort 4

Swinomish Dental at the American Dental Therapy Association Conference (ADTA) The annual ADTA conference themed “Rooted and Rising: Dental Therapy Education, Identity & Opportunity” was held in Detroit this summer. Swinomish and dəxʷx̌ ayəbus staff made a presentation about how the Swinomish dental therapy program began, and shared details about staffing integrations, successes, and lessons learned. The presenters included dəxʷx̌ ayəbus Dental Therapy Education Program Director Dr. Warren and Swinomish Dental stars Jessica Ortez, Asiah Gonzalez, Keana Cruse, and Tamara Holmes. The Swinomish Dental team hosted an exhibitor “Rethink Your Drink” table where they shared information and organic nettle mint and rose mint teas and goodies. They also participated in continuing education courses, which provided valuable education and connection, as well as the right environment to share ideas between others in the dental therapy community.

RECREATIONAL BEACH MONITORING UPDATES DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION

The Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) A Beach Action Value (BAV) is a precautionary threshold conducts bacteria monitoring at popular beaches on the DEP staff use to determine if a beach is considered reservation. safe for recreational uses. This threshold is based off the risk of illness for recreators given the concentration Regularly monitored areas include Martha’s Beach, Snee of bacteria present. If a sample has bacteria counts Oosh Beach, Lone Tree Point, the fishing docks, Hole- above the threshold, we issue a recreational advisory in-the-Wall, and Swinomish Flats. These beaches are for that beach and resample the water from the area the surveyed five times a month during the summer, June following day. through August, and only once a month in the off-season, September through May, for year-round users. Staff also use samples to measure conventional water quality parameters (temperature, salinity, dissolved We added the north and south side beaches of the oxygen, and more) and note site conditions in order to Kukutali Preserve tombolo to our sampling routine identify trends and sources of bacterial contamination. this summer. These areas will be included in routine community notifications soon. Bacterial exceedances are typically associated with precipitation events or high temperatures as warmer With its solid history of good water quality, DEP staff temperatures allow bacteria populations to grow will no longer sample at Hole-in-the-Wall as of January more quickly in the water. Stormwater generated from 2027. Instead, staff will concentrate on locations with precipitation events collects pollution upstream and is potentially higher bacteria levels. This will include routine often untreated before it enters the local watershed. monitoring at Tipping Rock beach off Dr. Joe Road. Data from DEP’s Pollution Identification and Correction So, what do beachgoers need to do? ‣ Stay in the know – sign up for Swinomish Alerts program have shown this area can be a hot spot for by texting Swinomish1 to 91896 and check for bacterial contamination. advisories before recreating at local beaches. ‣ Avoid swimming for 24 hours after a precipitation Swinomish beach area waters are sampled and tested event, and avoid swimming near stormwater outfalls. for enterococcus bacteria. These bacteria are indicators ‣ Help keep water quality safe by picking up your of potential fecal pollution in the water column and dog’s poop, especially at the beach. the potential presence of other pathogens. Exposed or ‣ Provide DEP staff with feedback about these ingested pathogens can pose health risks to humans, recreational beach monitoring efforts so we can causing gastrointestinal illnesses. But don’t worry – this continue to improve the program! monitoring program is here to keep you informed, so you can enjoy your time in and on the water. How can you find out about a recreational beach advisory? We share the advisory notices in many locations: Swinomish Alerts – issues advisories only Permanent kiosks at Martha’s Beach, Lone Tree, the fishing docks, and SneeOosh Beach and sandwich board signs at other beaches in the event of an advisory. Online: DEP website and StoryMap at sitcgov.us/ EnvironmentalAlerts – all results

Beating Breast Cancer: Candace Casey’s Story LAVONNE LONG, COMMUNICATIONS DEPARTMENT

Candace discovered a painful lump in her breast in 2013 while doing a self-exam. Her immediate response was to see a physician for imaging and a biopsy. She received the call on a lunch break at work shortly after this appointment – Stage 2 breast cancer and BRCA2 positive (you carry an inherited gene change that raises your lifetime risk for certain cancers).

“My family was by my side every step of the way. I was in shock for a long time,” she said. She says she never felt alone at appointments and a community sponsored meal train kept her family well fed.

“If you or a family member is going through cancer, be there with them at appointments to Her first thought after receiving the diagnosis? Fight! hear what the doctors have to say,” Candace “I thought, okay, what is next to fix this? I have four kids said. “Thinking back when I was going through to raise yet. I don’t have time to be sick,” said Candace. treatments, I was in a haze and didn’t remember Candace is grateful for family, friends, and the Swinomish things said by my doctors.” community for supporting her during her fight against Candace was only 37 years old when she was breast cancer. diagnosed. Her words of advice – “Please don’t put off getting a mammogram!”

Candace and her family after her first breast cancer surgery

Candace and her sisters after her first breast cancer surgery

Candace with her family before her breast cancer diagnosis

After losing her hair to chemotherapy, Candace and her sisters decided on matching breast cancer tattoos! 17

Nakesha Edwards Creates Installation for didgwalic Transitional Housing LAVONNE LONG, COMMUNICATIONS DEPARTMENT

Swinomish artist and Mental Health Program Manager Nakesha Edwards created an art piece for the floor of the didgʷálič Transitional Housing office in La Conner. With the help of her twin sister Nakiya Luna and younger sister Lailoni Edwards, this piece represents powerful healing. “Our generation is here to help others heal out loud for the ones who couldn’t,” said Nakesha. She shared on social media that “the eagle is a symbol of the sun’s physical and spiritual energy, representing great vision, leadership and healing. My intent with this painting was the eagle resembles your spirit, and when you feed your spirit with positive energy, you begin to shine. The sun is powerful, strong, bright, and continues to rise despite the rainy days. Shine bright, be powerful and be resilient.” Thank you to didgʷálič Transitional Housing staff for commissioning this important piece of art.

October 6, 13, 20 + 27 / 5–7

Get the tools you need to build a successful business

Swinomish Education Hub (17113 Tallawhalt Way) or online Please register: sitcgov.us/FinanceAcademy Online access is available at sitcgov.us/WorkshopTeams (Microsoft Teams)

QUESTIONS? Call (360)708-2976

AUGUST 9 - Swinomish Days Canoe Races 19

GENERATIONS OF GATHERINGS AND YOUTH SERVICES CAROLINE AMMONS, SWINOMISH COMMUNICATIONS; KRISTA HAMBURG, TRIBAL ARCHIVE; TRACY JAMES, SOCIAL SERVICES

When you walk into the Swinomish gym, what is your favorite memory? It is fun to take a minute to walk back in time and think about the places of our favorite community gatherings. This year marks twenty years since the Swinomish Tribe opened the Susan Wilbur Early Education Center (SWEEC). Every generation of Swinomish youth have had a dedicated place to gather, learn, and grow. To commemorate the anniversary, we're featuring the spaces where our children grew up. This includes American Hall and the Swinomish Community Center as they evolved and transitioned into our current day SWEEC and Boys & Girls Club.

1930, Puget Sound Indian Fair American Hall in the background Swinomish Tribal Archive

The Swinomish Tribal Archive shared photos of our American Hall and the groundbreaking of the Swinomish Community Center in 1964 and newspaper clippings about the new community center from local papers such as the Puget Sound Mail. We're also taking our readers back to the 1960s with photos from the Child Care Photo Collection highlighting the basketball tournament, images from the kitchen, salmon BBQ pit, and early child care. Additionally you will find photos from the Frank Dunn Collection, which capture the beginning of the SWEEC construction in 2005.

Photo from the Indians of Skagit County by Martin Sampson c. 1972 Swinomish Tribal Archive

Groundbreaking Ceremony of the Swinomish Gym c. 1964 Swinomish Tribal Archive

Childcare Photo Collection Swinomish Tribal Archive 1960

Basketball tourney in the Swinomish Gym c.1960 Childcare Photo Collection Swinomish Tribal Archive 22

Childcare Photo Collection Swinomish Tribal Archive 1960

A woman BBQ-ing fish at the Fish Pit Outside the Gym c.1960s Childcare Photo Collection Swinomish Tribal Archive

Women preparing food in the old American Hall c.1960s Childcare Photo Collection Swinomish Tribal Archive

Swinomish Childcare children and staff c. 1960's Childcare Photo Collection Swinomish Tribal Archive 23

Frank Dunn Collection Swinomish Tribal Archive 2007 The newly updated gym and playground c. 2007 Frank Dunn Photo Collection Swinomish Tribal Archive

2006

The construction process of the gym expansion c. 2006 Frank Dunn Photo Collection Swinomish Tribal Archive

Frank Dunn Collection Swinomish Tribal Archive 2005

The gym before construction commences c. 2005 Frank Dunn Photo Collection Swinomish Tribal Archive

Infant Room

In 2006, when the Susan M. 2014 ― Infant Room in Edwards-Wilbur Early Learning Social Services Building Center opened, the Pre-School moved into the new Early Learning Center in the first level of the building, next to the Child Care. The Study Hall/Computer Lab moved into the second level before in the Youth Center. The Thegym result construction of these historic transitions is commences the Social Services staff has a c. 2005 break room; and there is Infant FrankSocial Dunn Photo Care available in the Services Building. Collection Swinomish Tribal Archive

The Early Learning Center is home to two programs, the Preschool and Childcare. The Boys & Girls Club shares a home with the Early Learning Center. Our community hosts culture nights, monthly community dinners, holiday events, meetings, funerals, family naming(s), department organized events, and so much more in that building. The Susan Wilbur Early Education Center and Boys & Girls Club is where Swinomish gathers.

SUSAN WILBUR

This article is published in special honor of Susan Wilbur (19542004), whose vision, leadership, and dedication to our children helped shape early learning in the Swinomish Community.

WOMEN'S HEALTH WEEK SEPTEMBER 21-24

CEHP staff Beth Willup and Denise Willup offer a variety of tea samples and bath salts

Swinomish Public Health Officer Stacey Anderson and Manager Megan Roorda

Mind Your Mental Health Fair SEPTEMBER 18

Guest speaker Chance Rush with Nakesha Edwards, Jenny Peters, and Miss Swinomish, Ruby Billy 26

March Against Addiction AUGUST 6

Family members hold pictures of loved ones lost to addiction

George Villaluz Jr. Swinomish Elders Sobriety Award winner 28

LaToya Kaubin Joe Dunn Memorial Sobriety Award winner

Lorna Dan and Victor Morales pose for the Polaroid picture

Camas Burn SEPTEMBER 22

Clambake AUGUST 27

DEP staff helped make the event as waste free as possible

Clambake

Youth Sports

Raymond McDonald, Solomon McDonald, Kayson Joseph, Taven Revey

Basketball Court Renovation Kickoff Ceremony WHAT’S HAPPENING? The basketball court at the corner of Swinomish Avenue and Snee Oosh Road will be under construction through the end of the year.

The project includes full replacement of the existing court along with the addition of a half court at the south end and a patio area with several park barbecues. A steel canopy will cover the entire complex, with lighting to support evening play.

L-R Bruce James Jr., Barb James, Greg Edwards, Steve Edwards, Rodney John, Aurelia Bailey, Fred Cayou

SWINOMISH DAYS AUGUST 6-9

Paddle to Nisqually Medicine Creek Potlach Brent Bobb, Chas James, Marlon Edwards

We’re looking forward to seeing our preschool and daycare kids for their 3-month checkups!

Pr es c ho o l + D ay ca r e dental visits We have appointment times set aside for dental exams, cleanings, fluoride varnishes, and X-rays when possible. If your child needs additional care, we’ll work with your family to arrange follow-up treatment.

Next up at Swinomish Dental... Exams and cleanings: October 14 Follow-up treatments: October 21 Questions? Call (360) 466-3900

Boys & Girls Club October Youth of the Month

Issac Wilbur

Issac Wilbur is our October Youth of The Month. Issac is ten-years old and in the 5th grade at La Conner Elementary. Issac's favorite color is blue and in his free time he loves playing his PS5. He likes Gorillas, and Pennywise (IT) is his favorite movie. He also enjoys watching the show “Ziggy & Lemon”. Issac’s favorite place to be is the carnival and he enjoys playing kickball. When Issac grows up, he wants to be a teacher/artist. He enjoys listening to the song “Do You Miss Me” and, if you catch him snacking on his favorite food, it would be crispy chicken wings. Some fun facts about Issac are, he likes to play with playdough, make art, and clean up. Issac is our October YOTM for his kind heart, willingness to give a helping hand and positive attitude. If you see Issac around, make sure to congratulate him on this high honor.

AUGUST 9 – Swinomish Days canoe races 35

Paddle to Nisqually Swinomish Protocol AUGUST 3

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I AM SWINOMISH. I WILL GRADUATE. Swinomish youth sit with Swinomish Elders at the Paddle to Nisqually Medicine Creek Potlach.