August 2018 Vol.52 No. 7
Rez Pet Photo Contest | PAGE 19
C
NTENTS INSIDE
Tyee Joe cools off with a popsicle at the Wa-Walton Play Day.
ON THE COVER
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Rez Pet Photo Contest
Congratulations Toby Navarro, this year's Rez Pet winner!
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03 05 06 07 08 09 10 12 13 14 16 18 19 20 22 24 25 26 28 29 30 31 32 35 36
Editor's Note Chairman's Message Swinomish Tribe Files Lawsuit Against Opioid... Community Happenings Book Literacy Drive Swinomish Charitable Contribution Luncheon Swinomish Shellfish Cultivation: Part II of a Series Duke Helps Me Cope With Life Discover Your Animal Neighbors From the Tribal Archive: "Knitting Dollars and Cents" Being Frank Tide Table Rez Pet Photo Contest Winners Rez Pet Photo Contest Submissions Community Environmental Health Program Elder Tummy Tea Tribe Centennial Totem Pole Sent For Cleaning Science Corner: Clam Survey Wa-Walton Play Day Science Corner: BEACH Grant Helps Expand Sanitary... Cultural Orientation with Larry Campbell Swinomish Housing Authority + Kukutali Tombolo... Swinomish Wellness Program: Meet Our Staff Elders Menu August Birthday List + Announcements
editor’s NOTE Our Connection with Animals The interconnection between humans and animals is a topic that fascinates me. Although I have always inherently understood this relationship, I was first introduced to the formal concept while attending Northwest Indian College. One of my favorite Native American writers, the late Vine Deloria Jr. Vine once wrote, "The future of mankind lies waiting for those who will come to understand their lives and take up their responsibilities to all living things." I admire Vine's writing. His words always make me reflect on my own ethics, values, culture, and way of life. Swinomish is known as the people of the salmon. The legend of Ko-kwal-alwoot - the Maiden of Deception Pass possesses underlying teachings. It's
pedTaqa?
written in the legend, "Since that time she [Ko-kwalalwoot] has been their guiding spirit, and through her efforts there has always been plenty of shell fish and food of all kinds in that vicinity and the spring water has always been pure and sweet." I believe that our connection to the salmon doesn't stop there. The water is where we learn about the relationship between all living things; that relationship is ours to earn. To be grounded is to have a sense of place. Vine Deloria writes, "Human beings fail to experience the world as our ancestors did, and as many of my living indigenous elders do, because our technologies increasingly insulate us from direct experience and the acquisition of experiential knowledge and from natural environments." The teachings that I learn are timeless, because the connection to all living things is timeless. "Food for us comes from our relatives, whether they have wings or fins or roots. That is how we consider food. Food has a culture. It has a history. It has a story. It has relationships." -Winona LaDuke Caroline Edwards, goliahlitza
(pud-TA-kah)
Moon of the Salal Berry Much of August is "the moon of the salal berry." During this moon, many plants are ready for harvest. Salal berries are picked, mashed, dried, and made into cakes. Currants and trailing blackberry are also ripe at this time. Meanwhile camas leaves shrivel, making it particularly good time to harvest the bulbs. Chinook runs are reaching their peak with the summer run continuing and the fall run starting up the river. Fall Chinook run through the next two moons. Salmon in rivers are caught using weirs, dip nets and spears. Seals, which are also fishing for salmon, are hunted near the fishing sites. Salmon are eaten fresh and a large amount is dried for winter use. This moon signals a good time to wind dry the fish, before the insects increase. 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
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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@
pay a huxton Chester Cayou, Jr. (360) 770.3378 | ccayou@
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
kats-but-soot Jeremy Wilbur 360-770-7447 | jjwilbur@
squi-qui Joseph Williams (360) 853.5629 | jwilliams@ All Swinomish staff emails: FirstInitialLastName@swinomish.nsn.us
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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.
the chairman’s MESSAGE
Each year we honor our elders, remember our ancestors, and embrace our culture on the Salish Sea during Canoe Journey. With Power Paddle to Puyallup happening now, I can’t help but be thankful for our Cultural Committee and Department for the wonderful job they do at keeping the spirit alive. We honor our elders and their families at our monthly Community Dinner. We come together as a community to stand for those we treasure. For Nina and I, our hearts are full when we witness the tears of happiness, laughter, and love of our community as we visit and feast and witness love in the eyes of our elders as they are wrapped in blankets filled with gratitude. My deepest appreciations go out to Aurelia, Alissa, and the team who are always working hard to bring us together. Did I mention Power Paddle to Puyallup 2018?! While a few of my crew were out fishing and unable to paddle this year, I had most of my power house on the Salmon Dancer with me. Even with a broken ankle, I was not going to miss journey; and we all pulled hard. Our amazing support team was headed by the ultimate ground crew captain, Nina. They took good care of us.
All of our Swinomish canoes were powered by elders, parents, and youth, and it was truly a fine moment to witness our families on the water surrounded by our culture. Thank you to our ancestors for ensuring we have a history we can build on and a future we can call our own. It was a busy time for our harvesters. Dad and I had a great time fishing, and I know I always say this, we are so blessed to have our parents, uncles and aunties, cousins, and friends on the water with us. This year I was able to have Dad, Nathaniel, and Bella on the water with Nina, Mary, and I. The magic Skagit sure has a way of bringing generations together. And dang it was good to see crab and prawn harvesters out there with their families! Have you seen all the high school kids and youth out there? It is just awesome to see our youth on the water. Not a day goes by I don’t look around, smile, and think, “I am proud to be Swinomish.” Each and every one of you matters so much to my family and I! It is days on the water, the sounds of Coast Salish drums and songs, and witnessing so many elders being honored that builds my spirit. It’s difficult to believe we only have a handful of weeks before summer turns to cooler weather, shorter days, and school starts. Appreciate each moment with family and friends, enjoy this place we call “home,” and stay safe on your travels. May the Creator bless you all! Brian Cladoosby, spee-pots
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We honor our elders for their wisdom, and we respect and care for them as they cared for us. This understanding of respect and care has not faded from generation to generation; it is a constant, our way. My mom and dad are the most treasured people in my life, and I am thankful for them every day. I keep them close to my heart along with Nina and my family. I remind myself that I am blessed to be surrounded by so many memories of Mom and Dad. It is healing when I think of what I treasure most, especially now during the time of Tribal Canoe Journeys.
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Swinomish Tribe Files Lawsuit Against Opioid Pharmaceutical Companies JULY 3 — The Swinomish Indian Tribal Community has filed a Federal Court lawsuit against Purdue Pharma and other pharmaceutical companies alleging a conspiracy of false and deceptive marketing strategies that fueled the opioid epidemic and resulted in deaths and devastation to Swinomish families.
New Playground to be Complete by September Todd Mitchell, Environmental Protection
The complaint describes a pattern in which manufacturers and distributors convinced doctors and patients that opioids were safe for long-term use, despite evidence that such drugs are highly addictive, dangerous, and ineffective for treating chronic pain. “We have been holding funerals while these companies reap record profits,” said Swinomish Tribal Chairman Brian Cladoosby. “It’s time they are held accountable for the destruction they’ve caused in the Swinomish community.” According to federal statistics, the opioid overdose death rate among Native Americans is twice that of the general population and higher than any other racial demographic. Earlier this year, the Tribe opened a new opioid dependency treatment facility that provides intensive, whole-person outpatient treatment. The Wellness Center offers services to the public as well as to members of the Swinomish Tribe. The new treatment center supplements the Tribe’s other efforts to address the opioid epidemic through healthcare, law enforcement, justice, and social programs. “The Swinomish Tribe has devoted significant resources to address the opioid crisis,” said John Stephens, the chief executive officer of the Wellness Center. “Our new integrated treatment program provides quality, comprehensive services that have the highest potential for saving lives and healing victims of this crisis brought about by big pharma.” Contacts: Kim Stephens: kstephens@tousley.com, (206) 682.5600 John Stephens: jstephens@swinomish.nsn.us, (360) 466.7216 Chairman Brian Cladoosby: bcladoosby@swinomish.nsn.us, (360) 708.7533 sw d bš qyuuqs News e e
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Landscape Architect, Curt Miller and Environmental Protection Director, Todd Mitchell
Construction of the Swadabs Park Playground is STILL underway! DEP staff worked diligently over the past year to clear unexpected hurdles related to engineering, permitting, and contracting services. Now that these obstacles are out of the way, we hope the rest of the work will proceed smoothly so the playground is ready to go in September, which will mark nearly four years since we first visualized the project! If you’ve walked by the construction area lately you may have noticed the main concrete wall is looking bare. This wall will be the central feature of the playground and will soon hold a cool double slide and traverse climbing wall. As for safety, the traverse climbing wall allows for side-to-side climbing like some schools have, but not up and down. Some very large driftwood logs are on-site now, and we are stacking them like Lincoln Logs. These logs will a hold a big cargo climbing net to add more climbing fun to the playground. We’d like to thank Landscape Architect Curt Miller for helping with layout design, Rick Hill for his contracting assistance, and our general contractors for their terrific work in building it!
HOURS Monday - Friday, 10AM-6PM
AUGUST 15 Youth Center closed at 5:30PM for Community Dinner SUMMER OUTINGS Summer outings are determined daily by Youth Center staff. It is recommended that youth come prepared with swim gear every day. All activities and outings are subject to change due to weather. CONTACT US Swinomish Youth Center (360) 466.7337
COMMUNITY HAPPENINGS AUGUST 10-12 Swinomish Days Canoe Races | Powwow | Sla-hal Stick Games AUGUST 15 Community Dinner 6pm | Youth Center AUGUST 23 Clambake 12pm | Lone Tree, Thousand Trails *Community Dinners are subject to change
HOLIDAYS SEPTEMBER 1 It's Labor Day!
Power Paddle to Puyallup 2018–Swinomish Landing Photo: Emma Fox
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YOUTH CENTER CALENDAR
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Book Literacy Drive JULY 9 –– It wasn't the Magic School Bus that drove up to the Youth Center but the Book Bus! When the bus arrived full of 3,000 books 50 to 75 kids boarded the bus to take their pick. District 13 firefighters and the Swinomish Police department were on hand to greet the with coloring books, stickers, and even popsicles!
Zaine James holds up a pencil bag full of goodies from Fire District 13.
Lailoni Edwards holds up her bag of books as a District 13 Firefighter puts stickers in her bag.
Ronnie Edwards
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Swinomish Charitable Contribution Luncheon Emma Fox
June 28 — Generosity and good will abounded during the Swinomish Tribe's annual Charitable Contribution Luncheon at the Wa Walton Event Center where the Tribe donated $220,000 to 51 local organizations. On behalf of the Tribe, General Manager Allan Olson welcomed attendees with respect and admiration for their significant service work in local communities. He shared that "Swinomish is a service-oriented tribe, so this event of giving is very important to us." Attendees reciprocated the value of the event, detailing stories of how much the Tribe's gift would help their organization. On behalf of the Argus Fund, Lynn Postler illustrated the organization's efforts to assist at-risk youth in living safe and fulfilled lives. Postler told of the fund purchasing graduation robes for a youth who otherwise would be unable to participate in his graduation.
2018 AWARD RECIPIENTS Alger Food Bank American Red Cross Anacortes Schools Foundation: Ready to Learn Fair Argus Fund Bethany Covenant Church: Back to School Blessing Boys and Girls Club of Skagit County Brigid Collins House Camp Korey Cascade Days Center for Environmental Law and Policy Chief Seattle Club Children's Museum of Skagit County Community Action of Skagit County Compass Health Cutting Hunger on Weekends Diaper Bank of Skagit County
A.J. Abrahamson and Derrick Belgarde Chief Seattle Club
Michael Cook, Veronica Lopez, Adilene Hernandez, and Byron Manering Brigid Collins House
Earthjustice Friendship House Helping Hands Food Bank Island County Historical Society Museum La Conner Community Scholarship Fund La Conner Library Foundation La Conner Sunrise Food Bank Leadership Skagit Lincoln Theatre Lummi Boys and Girls Club META Love, Inc. North Cascades Institute Orcas Island Historical Museum Penn Cove Water Festival Relay for Life RE Sources for Sustainable Communities Ronald McDonald House Charities
Skagit Artists Skagit County Historical Museum Skagit Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Services Skagit Fisheries Enhancement Group Skagit Preschool and Resource Center Skagit River Salmon Festival Skagit Valley College Foundation Skagit Valley Herald Christmas Fund Skagit Valley Neighbors in Need Skagit Volunteer Lawyer Program South Whidbey Historical Society Standwood/ Camano Food Bank Tri-Parish Food Bank United Indians of All Tribes Foundatoin Western Environmental Law Center Young Life
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General Manager Allan Olson welcomes attendees to the luncheon.
Lynn Postler Argus Fund
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Swinomish Shellfish Cultivation: Part II of a Series Theresa L. Trebon, Tribal Archivist
In the July issue of qyuuqs News readers learned about Rod Turner’s oyster business on Similk Bay. As Turner’s business gained ground in the early 1930s, another oyster business started nearby.
Puget Sound Mail March 28, 1934
Anacortes American November 6, 1930
In 1932 the Padilla Point Oyster Company transplanted $160,000 worth of Pacific Oyster seed to Padilla Bay. By 1934 these oysters had migrated to Swinomish tidelands prompting Tulalip Superintendent O. C. Upchurch to write to Commissioner of Indian Affairs John Collier: “I feel that we have here an unusual opportunity for a limited employment of Indians and a very important profit to this impoverished tribe.” Upchurch knew firsthand how desperate the Swinomish Tribe was for economic opportunity and outlined possibilities for advancing that in several ways, “putting forth proposals of industries for Swinomish, namely: oyster culture, fisheries, and hop yards. . . . We have planted test plots on our oyster beds to prove the land before making extensive plantings. The need and rehabilitation of the Swinomish is very great.” While hop yards never materialized at Swinomish, the 1934 test plantings of oysters at Dead Man Island and in Padilla Bay provided enough encouragement to move ahead. In 1938, the Tribe purchased oyster spawn directly from Japanese oyster brokers in Seattle who imported that product from Japan. sw d bš qyuuqs News e e
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The Tribe received its first Certificate of Approval for Shellfish Area Sanitation in December 1940 and the following year harvested their first crop of oysters with a profit of $16,000 (worth $279,743 in 2018 dollars). Swinomish expanded their oyster business and R. D. Turner of the Similk Bay oyster operation began consulting with the Tribe in 1941. He served in an advisory capacity (voluntarily or paid is unknown) to Oyster Committee Chairman George Cagey, helping with issues such as “soft” oysters, spawning, moving oysters from one bed to another, and when to market them. Turner began moving some Swinomish oysters to his own operation where he was expanding his oyster business and golf course at the same time. Because oysters could only be harvested with the right tides, Turner’s oyster crew, which averaged between 12 and 20 men, could only work
George Cagey Swinomish Oyster Chairman - 1941 Continues on NEXT page 11
four hours a day. “What to do after only half of an ordinary work day is accomplished? The answer was found in all the acreage which lies adjacent to the oyster grounds. Here, bit by bit, men and materials have been used at odd hours to change between 60 and 70 wooded acres into rolling fairways.” In doing so the crew transformed the 1929 golf course. They extended the course north towards Fidalgo Bay by creating fifteen new holes, saving only three of the original nine holes that were just north of Similk Beach. Swinomish also turned to another oyster expert in 1941, George Fujii of the Eagle Rock Oyster Company in Nahcotta, Washington. The Tribe began purchasing strings of seed oysters from Fujii in 1938, but due to an “exceptionally long spawn period,” the Tribe experienced difficulty marketing the oysters. The oysters’ precarious viability was a result of increased political friction between the United St ates and Japan. Hostilities between the two countries constricted the importation of quality oyster seed from Japan in the late 1930s.
Fujii knew that American oyster companies were trying to capture oyster seed in Washington waters to make up for the shortfall, but it was evident that locally-bred oysters were not of the same quality. As a result, Swinomish had trouble selling their shellfish due to an exceptionally long spawning period that made the oysters soft and “milky.” Fujii felt obligated to step in and help Swinomish market their oysters in order to prevent the Tribe from having a financial loss. On November 20, 1941 the Puget Sound Mail announced that Fuji’s company had purchased the former Moore Fishing Company office on First Street in La Conner. Not only would Fujii’s company contract for the Tribe’s entire oyster crop he would train Swinomish tribal members to “do the work of the trade.” In a matter of weeks local protests from La Conner, followed by the bombing of Pearl Harbor by Japan on December 7, brought the collaboration to an abrupt halt.
Look for Part III in this series in the September issue of qyuuqs News.
Power Paddle to Puyallup 2018–Swinomish Landing Photo: Emma Fox
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The NOAH Center and SHA DUKE HELPS ME COPE Coordinate Trips for Snips WITH LIFE DATE: Tuesday, August 14 TIME: Pick-up at 7am / Drop-off at 5pm LOCATION: Swinomish Housing Authority, 17547 First Street Trips for Snips is a pet spay and neuter program created by the Northwest Organization for Animal Help (NOAH). For those unable to come to the SHA office with their pet(s), the NOAH Center in Stanwood provides a doorto-door service on the day of the event. A growing number of people sign up their pet(s) to participate in the program, which has greatly reduced the number of puppy and kitten litters born on the reservation, and also helps with disease control. Furthermore, it helps renters remain in compliance with the “two pets per household” policy. SHA offers vouchers year round to the NOAH Center for tribal members living on the reservation who would like to get their pet(s) to the NOAH Center on their own. Contact Robin at the SHA office to pick one up.
Caroline Edwards, qyuuqs News Editor
Duke Edwards
Being a dog mom to my boy Duke has changed my life! Duke and I crossed paths during one of the hardest years I've ever had to endure. My life was at a turning point — I had just graduated from college. Back then I wanted a puppy to keep my mind, body, and spirit busy. Little did I know how much love and companionship would grow between his heart and mine. Everyday I wake up to his sweet face. "When we see, touch, hear or talk to our companion animals, beneficial neurohormones are released and that induces a sense of goodwill, joy, nurturing and happiness." (Rebecca Johnon, Ph.D) It's as if I have my very own therapy dog.
Door-to-door service for your pet
Would You Like to Participate in Trips for Snips?
Duke has taught these three valuable lessons: 1. Live in the moment 2. Accept myself 3. Be a loyal and dependable friend
Call or visit the SHA office to make an appointment with Robin Carneen and sign up for door-to-door services if needed. Come into the SHA office to fill out the required paperwork, including a consent for spay or neuter and first time shots. Micro-chipping and flea treatments are available for extra fees. Appointments fill up fast! First come, first served! Signing up early is strongly recommended. Only two pets per household please.
Duke has been there through it all! He's helped me cope with life! How? Look at those eyes! His unconditional love fills the voids in my life, creating more clarity. Our morning tummy rubs and evening snuggles ground my spirit making my life that much easier.
If you have questions please call Robin at (360) 466.4081. Do not contact the NOAH office for appointments. For more information visit: thenoahcenter. org, or facebook.com/thenoahcenter. 12 sw d bš qyuuqs News
"A dog is the only thing on earth that loves you more than you love yourself." -Josh Billings
I wonder if he knows how much his little soul has helped me through the years?
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Discover Your Animal Neighbors Have you ever dreamed of meeting a kangaroo? Perhaps an owl, an eagle, a horse, or a bear? You're in luck! Check out some of these local organizations providing loving homes to an assortment of amazing animals.
Padilla Bay Estuarine Research Reserve
10441 Bayview Edison Road, Mount Vernon, WA 98273 Online: ecology.wa.gov/Water-Shorelines/Shoreline-coastalmanagement/Padilla-Bay-reserve/Education-programs/ Classes-events Phone: (360) 757.3234
> Third Sunday Upland Trail Walk — August 19, 10am; September 16, 10am All ages. Curious about native (or invasive) plants growing in natural spaces? Can’t distinguish a cedar from a fir? Wondering what’s blooming in the forest? > Beach Seine — August 22, 12:30pm; August 28, 3pm All ages. No need for SCUBA to see what’s living out there in the bay. Meet on the beach at Bay View State Park and watch while a fish net is pulled through the water. Learn more about your fine finned friends! > Mini Explorers — August 22 and 23, 10am and 1pm Ages 3-5, registration required. Join a Padilla Bay mudflat safari especially for preschoolers!
The Outback Kangaroo Farm
10030 State Route 530 NE, Arlington, WA 98223 Online: outbackkangaroofarm.com Phone: (360) 403.7474 • Open March through October 30 • 40-minute guided tours: Wednesday-Sunday 10am, 12pm, 2pm, 4pm • Children under two are free, Children (2-12) $10, Adults $12, Seniors $10 The menagerie of furry and feathered residents at the Outback Kangaroo Farm includes: kangaroos; wallabies; wallaroos; tortoise; llamas; lemurs; alpacas; Nigerian dwarf goats; parrots; and emus!
Sardis Raptor Center
7472 Valley View Road, Ferndale, WA 98248 Online: facebook.com/SardisRaptor Phone: (360) 366.3863 • Open to the public Saturdays 11am-4pm • Free to the public, donations are appreciated Sardis Raptor Center is dedicated to helping rescue, rehabilitate, and release raptors.
Northwest Trek
11610 Trek Drive East, Eatonville, WA 98328 Online: nwtrek.org Phone: (360) 832.6117 • Open year round, times vary • Adults (13-64) $20, Seniors (65+) $18, Youth (5-12) $12, Tots (3-4) $8 Northwest Trek is home to over 40 species of native Northwest animals. Explore wildlife and natural habitats by trams, trails, zip lines, and kids’ treks!
Lang’s Horse and Pony Farm
21463 Little Mountain Road, Mount Vernon, WA 98274 Online: comeride.com Phone: (360) 424.7630 • Days of operation are weather permitting, closed during heavy rain. • Ages to adult welcome. No experience necessary. By reservation only. With well over 300 acres of forestland, there are lots of horse trails to explore. They offer a variety of different guided ride lengths, so there is something for everyone. sw d bš qyuuqs News 13 e e
• Breazeale Interpretive Center and aquarium open to the public Tuesday-Saturday 10am-5pm • Free to the public • Join us for our public educational events
FROM THE TRIBAL ARCHIVE
CLALLAM WOMEN WEAVING A BLANKET Paul Kane - 1847, Courtesy of the Royal Ontario Museum
“KNITTING DOLLARS AND CENTS”: THE EVERYDAY HAND WORK OF SWINOMISH WOMEN AND THE DOGS WHO HELPED THEM BY THERESA L. TREBON
The women of the Swinomish community who supported their families by spinning and knitting did more than make sweaters and socks for their families: they operated their own knitting businesses as well. These handcrafts were an important economic lifeline for Swinomish’s ancestral households, enabling women to earn crucial dollars to purchase needed goods. Native women always spun yarn to weave blankets, utilizing the hair of specially bred dogs and mountain goats. After entering the Salish Sea in 1792 the Vancouver Expedition noted that “we saw (the Natives) at work on a kind of coarse Blanket made of double twisted woolen Yarn & curiously wove by their fingers with great patience & ingenuity into various figures.”
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While Native women gathered mountain goat hair where it fell in the mountains, they deliberately bred small white “wooly” dogs for their hair which they routinely sheared for textile production. The fi rst non-Native visitors to the Salish Sea region noted these wool dogs in their journal entries and that Indians bred the dogs, and cared for them, in specific areas. In 1825,
John Scouler, an explorer with the Hudson’s Bay Company, witnessed such a place on Tatoosh Island at the mouth of the Juan de Fuca Strait near the Makah Reservation. “The natives of Tatooch [sic] show much ingenuity in manufacturing blankets from the hair of their dogs. On a little island a few miles from the coast they have a great number of white dogs which they feed regularly every day. From the wool of these dogs & the fibers
Loom Upright Discovered in 1990 in Skagit Delta This vertical post supported the loom structure that is visible in the Paul Kane painting at Left Swinomish Tribal Archive
Jimbo greets the Youth Canoe Photo: Emma Fox
of the Cypress they make a very strong blanket.” In 1847, Canadian artist Paul Kane recorded the image of one of these “wool dogs” in his painting of Clallam women weaving a blanket on upright loom; a woman spinning on a drop spindle may be seen behind the loom. From 1853 through the 1870s the fi rst white settlers in the Swinomish homeland called Guemes Island “Dog Island” because of all the Indian dogs there. Snohomish Indian women raised their litters of wool dogs on Hat Island near the present-day Tulalip Reservation. Why place these dogs on small islands? Probably to control the quality of the dog hair. By isolating this specific breed of dog away from their regular “camp dogs,” Native women could ensure that the pure strains of their wool dogs remained undiluted. When the reservation system was put into place in the 1850s, the specialized dogs were no longer isolated and mixed with less valued dog breeds. As a result the wool dogs disappeared from view.
Photo: Emma Fox
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If you or someone you know have stories of elders who spun or knit, or have woolen items (hats, sweaters, socks) that were knit by members of the Community many years ago, please contact the Tribal Archive at (360) 466.7351 or Email: ttrebon@swinomish.nsn.us
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BEING FRANK
battling in court over the effects of timber harvests on fish and wildlife habitat. Time, money and effort that could have been better spent on protecting and restoring our shared natural resources were instead being wasted in court.
COOPERATION IS KEY TO SALMON RECOVERY
Our late chairman, Billy Frank Jr., looked for another path – a path of cooperation – and he found it. He asked the late Stu Bledsoe, executive director of an industry trade group, if the timber companies would be willing to work together to find a Lorraine Loomis, NWIFC Chair way forward. Washington Attorney General Bob Ferguson didn’t have to take the culvert case all the way to the U.S. Supreme Court. Instead of continuing the state’s shameful history of denying tribal treaty-reserved fishing rights, he could have chosen a path of cooperation that has shown remarkable results in our state.
Bledsoe agreed to try, and after many months of negotiations by all the parties involved, the Timber/Fish/Wildlife Agreement was born. It ended the war in the woods with a cooperative science-based management approach that ensures a healthy timber industry while also protecting fish and wildlife.
On June 18 the Supreme Court let stand a strong lower court ruling requiring the state to fix hundreds of fish blocking culverts under state roads in western Washington. The ruling will open hundreds of miles of high quality salmon habitat that will produce hundreds of thousands more salmon annually for harvest by everyone.
That partnership is still going strong today and shows the great things we can do when we work together to solve a shared problem.
Tribes filed the case in 2001 because the state’s rate of replacing failed culverts would have taken at least 100 years to complete. Salmon don’t have that kind of time. Their populations grow smaller every day because we are losing habitat faster than it is being restored. In 2013 Federal District Court Judge Ricardo Martinez issued a common-sense ruling – upheld by two federal appeals courts and now affirmed by the Supreme Court – that treaty rights require there to be fish available for harvest. Judge Martinez gave the state 17 years to fix the highest priority blocking culverts. That could have been the end of it, but instead the state dragged the case out for four more years of appeals before reaching the Supreme Court. Four more years of lost time, lost funding, lost habitat and lost salmon. We’ve been here before. In the mid-1980s a war raged in the forests of Washington. Timber companies, environmental groups, tribes, state and federal agencies, and others were sw d bš qyuuqs News e e
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There is a choice to be made now that the Supreme Court has made clear that the treaties promised tribes there would always be salmon to harvest, and that the state has a duty to protect those fish and their habitat. One thing is certain: We will never stop fighting to protect and restore salmon habitat because that is the key to recovery. For tribes, our treaty-reserved rights are among our most precious possessions. We do not risk them lightly by having them argued in court. But when we are forced to do it, we will. And when we do, we will win, just like the last eight times that our treaty fishing rights have gone before the Supreme Court. And when we win, so does the resource and every single person who lives here. Natural resources management does not have to be a zerosum game. There don’t have to be winners and losers. We can be partners. After all, we all want the same things: healthy people, healthy natural resources and a healthy economy. We can all win if we work together. Billy Frank and Stu Bledsoe showed us how. 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.
Power Paddle to Puyallup 2018–Swinomish Landing Photo: Jacob Tully
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TIDE TABLE: September 2018 t
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Day Sat 01 Sun 02 Mon 03 Tue 04 Wed 05 Thu 06 Fri 07 Sat 08 Sun 09 Mon 10 Tue 11 Wed 12 Thu 13 Fri 14 Sat 15 Sun 16 Mon 17 Tue 18 Wed 19 Thu 20 Fri 21 Sat 22 Sun 23 Mon 24 Tue 25 Wed 26 Thu 27 Fri 28 Sat 29 Sun 30
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04:09 1.38 ft 05:01 0.93 ft 05:59 0.52 ft 07:02 0.08 ft 00:51 9.68 ft 08:07 −0.40 ft 02:00 9.78 ft 09:08 −0.88 ft 03:06 10.07 ft 10:05 −1.24 ft 04:07 10.42 ft 10:56 −1.33 ft 05:04 10.68 ft 11:45 −1.09 ft 00:27 2.87 ft 01:11 2.06 ft 01:55 1.38 ft 02:39 0.92 ft 03:25 0.68 ft 04:13 0.67 ft 05:05 0.83 ft 06:03 1.06 ft 00:06 8.39 ft 07:07 1.23 ft 01:18 8.13 ft 08:11 1.25 ft 02:27 8.18 ft 09:08 1.15 ft 03:25 8.46 ft 09:57 1.03 ft 04:13 8.81 ft 10:39 0.96 ft 04:55 9.16 ft 11:16 1.02 ft 00:00 3.24 ft 00:26 2.58 ft 00:56 1.88 ft 01:29 1.18 ft 02:06 0.57 ft 02:47 0.10 ft 03:33 −0.16 ft
High 10:20 8.92 ft 11:31 8.78 ft 12:56 8.87 ft 14:27 9.29 ft 15:41 9.91 ft 16:32 10.50 ft 17:14 10.96 ft 17:50 11.28 ft 18:25 11.48 ft 06:00 10.78 ft 06:54 10.70 ft 07:50 10.46 ft 08:47 10.13 ft 09:48 9.76 ft 10:55 9.44 ft 12:16 9.26 ft 13:47 9.35 ft 15:04 9.65 ft 15:58 9.96 ft 16:36 10.18 ft 17:05 10.32 ft 17:28 10.41 ft 17:49 10.51 ft 05:34 9.48 ft 06:13 9.75 ft 06:54 9.97 ft 07:37 10.12 ft 08:24 10.18 ft 09:16 10.13 ft 10:15 10.00 ft
DID YOU KNOW? ANIMALS • • • • • • •
Sea otters hold each other's paws when they sleep to keep from drifting apart. Squirrels plant thousands of new trees each year simply by forgetting where they hide their acorns. As the official mascot of the Norwegian King's Guard, Brigadier Sir Nils Olav III is the third penguin to be knighted by Norway. Gentoo penguins "propose" to their life mates with a pebble. Sweden has a rabbit show-jumping competition called Kaninhoppning. Japanese Macaques are the most northern living non-human primate, and they enjoy making snowballs for fun. All dogs have a unique nose print. Source: boredpanda.com sw d bš qyuuqs News e e
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Low
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16:07 4.16 ft 17:03 5.20 ft 18:17 6.01 ft 19:47 6.33 ft 21:07 6.08 ft 22:09 5.47 ft 22:59 4.66 ft 23:44 3.77 ft
22:07 10.35 ft 22:51 10.06 ft 23:46 9.79 ft
12:31 −0.51 ft 13:17 0.38 ft 14:02 1.49 ft 14:49 2.71 ft 15:40 3.93 ft 16:39 5.02 ft 17:56 5.81 ft 19:43 6.07 ft 21:11 5.79 ft 22:06 5.32 ft 22:45 4.83 ft 23:13 4.35 ft 23:37 3.83 ft
18:59 11.55 ft 19:33 11.47 ft 20:09 11.24 ft 20:46 10.84 ft 21:26 10.28 ft 22:10 9.61 ft 23:02 8.94 ft
11:51 1.23 ft 12:27 1.61 ft 13:03 2.16 ft 13:41 2.85 ft 14:22 3.65 ft 15:06 4.51 ft 15:59 5.33 ft
18:11 10.61 ft 18:36 10.69 ft 19:03 10.72 ft 19:32 10.66 ft 20:03 10.50 ft 20:39 10.23 ft 21:19 9.85 ft
Sunrise Sunset Moonrise Moonset 6:27 6:29 6:30 6:31 6:33 6:34 6:36 6:37 6:38 6:40 6:41 6:43 6:44 6:45 6:47 6:48 6:50 6:51 6:52 6:54 6:55 6:57 6:58 6:59 7:01 7:02 7:04 7:05 7:07 7:08
19:51 19:49 19:47 19:45 19:43 19:41 19:39 19:37 19:34 19:32 19:30 19:28 19:26 19:24 19:22 19:20 19:18 19:16 19:13 19:11 19:09 19:07 19:05 19:03 19:01 18:59 18:57 18:55 18:53 18:50
23:05 23:42 0:28 1:24 2:29 3:43 5:01 6:21 7:39 8:56 10:10 11:21 12:29 13:34 14:34 15:29 16:17 16:59 17:35 18:06 18:34 18:59 19:23 19:46 20:10 20:36 21:06 21:41 22:24
12:58 14:08 15:17 16:22 17:21 18:11 18:53 19:29 20:00 20:28 20:55 21:22 21:50 22:21 22:56 23:36 0:21 1:12 2:08 3:07 4:09 5:13 6:18 7:24 8:31 9:40 10:50 12:01 13:10
2018 REZ PET CONTEST Meet Toby, winner of the qyuuqs News Rez Pet Contest!
Toby lives with his human, Kylee Navarro, who thinks he is "the most adorable baby pug!" Toby is six months old, and according to Kylee "so full of character." Toby and Kylee enjoy exploring the outdoors together, where Toby chews on everything from pine cones to his favorite snack: dandelions. Here, Toby is pictured during his first outing to the beach at Thousand Trails. Good boy, Toby — and congratulations!
CATEGORY WINNERS
Not Your Average Critter Winner: The twins Human: Cathi Bassford
Just Plain Lazy Winner: Teddy Human: Lou D'Amelio
Champion Companion Winner: Babe Human: Val Lockrem
Runaway Captain Winner: Koda Human: Inez McDonald
Tickle Your Bones Funny Winner: Drew Human: Paula Oldham
Best Dressed Winner: Waffles Human: Eric Brown
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Really Cute Cat Winner: Simba Human: Marlo Quintasket
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Midnight and Daisy Val Lockrem
Oscar Elissa Kalla
Fido Myk Heidt
Doby Olivia Bailey
Prescious Ali Peacher
Blackjack Christine Porter
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Popeye Joan Edwards
Sylvester Jeff Edwards
Scarlet, Cinder, Squeaks, and Diamond Jessica Grossglass
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Chili Pat Paul
Buddy, Buster, and Koolie Marlo Quintasket
Nahla Jessica Ortez
Gunner Jessica Ortez
Texas Chu Heather Mills
Boy Cat and Coco Anna Young
Mila Mike Porter
Jax Ammons Caroline Edwards
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2018 REZ PET CONTEST "Until one has loved an animal a part of one's soul remains unawakened." Anatole France Thank you to all of our Rez Pet participants, and to our panel of judges!
Evelyn, Charley, Miah Candace Casey
McGee and Abby Sherry Stewart
Boris Sarah Wilborn
Fenn Ann Smock
Alma Sarah Wilborn
Duke Edwards Caroline Edwards
Missy Jeff Edwards
Riley Alisha Jefferson
Tank Angela Baker
Cloud Todd Mitchell
Deer Cathi Bassford
Pacha Marlo Quintasket
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Ruckus Monica Chamness
Reedus Marlo Quintasket
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Science Corner
Community Environmental Health Program Dean Dan Jr., Community Environmental Health Intern
The season of summer celebrations is upon us, and the Community Environmental Health Program (CEH) team is busy serving delicious traditional recipes and hosting workshops to join in on the fun!
First Salmon Ceremony
This year’s First Salmon Ceremony and Blessing of the Fleet brought together a large audience of tribal members and individuals from neighboring communities. Always the outstanding emcee, Chairman Brian Cladoosby welcomed the audience with humor and hospitality. Food Sovereignty Fellow Kyra Herzberger and Intern Dean Dan Jr. participated in this event, with Kyra providing salal tea and Dean providing a fir tip infusion following recipes from the Feeding 7 Generations: A Salish Cookbook*. They also helped cut strawberries for the desserts.
Swinomish Community Health Survey
A’yo and Dean handed out community health surveys in the Social Services Building. Participants received a $25 fuel card for completing the survey. We received over 150 surveys from community members! The information we received is vital to understanding the current health of our community, and helps determine future programs and planning. Community member input is very important!
Medicine of the Trees
Our latest Medicine of the Trees workshop was a huge success! Our small group included six community members. We harvested tree resin from Douglas fir, grand fir, and spruce trees at Martha’s Beach on a tranquil night with calm waters and a warm breeze. Our team enjoyed this perfect night for gathering medicine and strolling about in conversation. We want to thank Joyce LeCompte for being an advisor and helping us in the field. Joyce has a Ph.D in ethnobotany from the University of Washington. Ethnobotany is the study of a region’s plants their uses through traditional knowledge of local culture and people. These people investigate plants used by societies around the world. It is always a treat when we can get Joyce to come to Swinomish, her reputation is paramount to her work and we hope to see more of Joyce throughout the year.
Upcoming CEH Summer Activities
Swinomish Shellfish Company Groundbreaking
The Swinomish Shellfish Company groundbreaking brought the community together to share food and laughs while celebrating the Tribe’s latest commercial endeavor. Our department was invited by Shellfish Biologist Stuart Thomas; Stuart enjoyed the fir tip infusion tea so much at the First Salmon Ceremony that he requested we make it for the groundbreaking. 22 sw d bš qyuuqs News
As you can see, CEH is having an exciting and busy summer! Our interns will soon be working at the NWIC Swinomish site to help with the expansion of the 13 Moons Garden. We will also participate in the planning of the senior garden boxes on the site. Stop in to say hello, or take a picture with the hardworking team bringing this garden to life. Our team is also hard at work planning the annual community Clambake in August. We hope to see you there! *You can pick up a copy of Feeding 7 Generations: A Salish Cookbook by Elise Krohn and Valerie Segrest at our office in the Social Services building on the second floor. We look forward to seeing you and answering any questions that you may have.
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Meet Our New Interns A'yo Hoferer and Dean Dan Jr.!
THE BLIGHT OF PLASTICS Part 5 of 12
Kyra Herzberger, VISTA Intern Community Environmental Health
Please consider your use of plastic, or rather reconsider your use of plastics.
Dean Dan Jr.
We would like to introduce our newest team members A’yo Hoferer and Swinomish Tribal member Dean Dan Jr. A’yo is from the Walker River Paiute Tribe in Nevada and studying to become a personal trainer. A’yo is attending Northwest Indian College (NWIC) while working at Swinomish. Dean is also studying at NWIC where he is working towards his Associate of Arts-General Direct Transfer degree; he plans to continue towards his bachelor’s degree. These interns work hard and are valued members of our team. We hope that you have an opportunity to visit with each of them while they are working within our community.
One surprising yet common source of plastic you may have in your home is chewing gum. Originally gum was made of chicle, a natural rubber derived from tree sap, but as with most things is now produced using synthetic materials. Next time you crave something to chew on, try a plastic-free brand like Glee Gum or Chicza, or reach for some dried fruit which is both sweet and chewy. If fresh breath is what you’re after, try natural mints like Newman’s Own. To further decrease your plastic use, choose candles or incense instead of air fresheners and when you go to light them, do it with matches or a reusable lighter instead of the disposable ones. Here are some other simple ways you can cut down on plastic in the household: • Use cloth diapers instead of disposable diapers. • Use cleaning cloths and scrubbers made from natural materials instead of synthetic materials. • Make your own cleaning products! They will be less toxic and will help cut back on packaging (Ask the Community Health Education Department for a free booklet of cleaning recipes!) • Try to get your name off of mailing lists and go paperless on your accounts to reduce mail. Of course, this is just a start, we challenge you to look through your own home and think about the items in it. What is made of plastic? What can you find non-plastic alternatives for? We guarantee you will be surprised! sw d bš qyuuqs News 23 e e
A'yo Hoferer
We often think of our homes as separate from the outside world, that what we do in them only impacts those who are inside it. However, as the population continues to increase, so does our use of plastics; household items that once seemed harmless are now anything but. So many products we use in our homes are not kind to Mother Earth. A whopping 50% of the plastics we use are single-use plastics: they are used once and then thrown away. Therefore one of the best things you can do for the health of the planet is to cut down on plastic, and where better to start than in your own home?
ELDER TUMMY TEA
Kyra Herzberger, VISTA Intern, Community Environmental Health
Ocean spray
Now that the sun is out the plants are prospering and the Community Environmental Health Program has really made the most of it. If you stroll down the pathway by the hats, you will see that the native plant garden is full of things waiting to be picked. These native plants offer many medicinal qualities and taste great in a tea. In July, we made a blend called “Elders Tummy Tea” and handed it out at the Elders weekly lunch. If you missed it, or would like to make your own, it’s very simple.
INGREDIENTS
First you need to harvest your plant material. For this tea you will need: Ocean spray blossoms Fireweed blossoms (leaves optional) Yarrow blossoms (leaves optional) Mint leaves Historically ocean spray was used by tribes to treat diarrhea, while fireweed promotes a healthy environment in the gut for good digestion. Yarrow, which is a relative of chamomile, promotes digestion as well as detoxification, and mint eases gas and freshens breath. This tea is very good for the lungs as well. The blossoms can be snipped from the plant, leaving the rest behind so it can continue to grow, or you 24 sw d bš qyuuqs News
Fireweed
can pick the whole plant, leaves and stem. Keep in mind you will only use the blossoms of the ocean spray, but the leaves of the yarrow and fireweed can be used along with their blossoms. Once harvested the herbs will need to dry. The best way to do this is to lay out newspaper in a sunny spot and spread the plant material over it. Make sure to do it in a single layer so that they dry evenly. Flipping your plant material over after 24 hours will help with this too. Depending on the temperature and humidity of your drying spot, your plant material should be dry in 3-5 days. If you are unsure, pick up a piece and rub it between your fingers. If it’s brittle and crumbles easily, it’s dry, if not, it needs a bit longer. Once drying has completed, take equal parts of the ocean spray blossoms, fireweed, yarrow, and mint leaves (buy the mint in bulk as this is not a native plant) and place in a glass container. The more whole you keep the plant materials, the better it will taste and the longer it will keep. Storing your container in a dark area will keep it fresh too. When you want to make a cup of tea, simply crumble your mix and add one teaspoon for every eight ounces (one cup) of boiling water, and allow it to steep for 30 minutes. This may sound like a long time but it is important for getting all the healing properties out of your tea. After the 30 minutes, strain out the plant material, add honey if desired, and enjoy!
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TRIBE CENTENNIAL TOTEM POLE SENT FOR CLEANING Theresa Trebon, Swinomish Tribal Archive Photo Credit: Krista Hamburg
July 13 - For the first time in almost forty years, the Swinomish Tribe lowered a well-known landmark: the 1989 Centennial Totem Pole. The carving, created with Washington State Centennial funds, replicated the original totem carved in 1938 by Swinomish Tribal member Charlie Edwards and assistants. The Tribe permanently lowered that first pole, which stood on the corner of Snee-oosh and Reservation roads for 45 years, in 1983 due to rot and insect damage to its base. They then removed the carvings and respectfully restored them to hang in the Social Services Building, where they may be seen today. The 1989 pole will be cleaned and remounted on its original base.
Housing for Adults in Recovery
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Science Corner
CLAM SURVEY
Layla Wilbur, NWIC Intern with Fisheries A'yo Hoferer, NWIC Intern with Community Environmental Health
A'yo Hoferer, Layla Wilbur dig the shores of Kukutali Preserve (Kiket Island) with Fisheries department and Community Environmental Health for a clam survey.
(Layla Wilbur)
(A’yo Hoferer)
The first of many surveys to be done with the shellfish survey team was nothing shy of amazing. I arrived on sight bright and early knowing nothing of what I was getting into. We arrived at our destination of Kiket Island and almost immediately was put to work. We were given tools and shown the proper way to dig a cubic foot. My first hole I dug I found a huge butter clam and I was astonished at how big it was. Throughout the day I became familiar with the different species of clams and how to differentiate them. I even encountered other organisms along the way.
I had the opportunity to accompany the Kiket Island clam surveying team, along with Myk Heidt, and the Fisheries department. I also met volunteers from different areas working with the Fisheries department and an intern from the Lummi campus I’ll be working with on the clam garden project. She is a Swinomish tribal member; her name is Layla Wilbur. I am excited to learn more about the clam surveys and how they collect data. I also look forward to helping with the Kiket Island clam garden!
To some this type of work may seem boring or too strenuous, but, for me this is what I have been working towards my whole life. Working in the field, doing observational studies and surrounded by the native environment of the ocean. My main focus is marine biology and the biodiversity within it. I’d have to say that working alongside some enthusiastic, caring and generous people is the icing on the cake. I am grateful to have met A’yo, another enthusiastic Lummi intern. I look forward to my next survey, which will be the monitoring Dungeness crab at two locations around the community. 26 sw d bš qyuuqs News
Before we got started, we were taught how to dig with the tools designed for clam digging. Each location was first tagged and numbered in correspondence to its location on the beach, called a transect. We would proceed to dig a hole, approximately one cubic foot in search for clams in the designated area. Once we sifted through the mud we had dug to find clams, we then tagged them with their provided GPS location. We also learned how to measure, weigh, and identify the different clams. It is quite a long process but we got to see a lot of creatures during the digging, different types of clams, shrimp, worms, and little crabs running around the shores. I look forward to the next surveys coming up!
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CLAM SURVEY INTERVIEWS Layla asked A'yo Hoferer:
A’yo asked Layla Wilbur:
Have you ever been clam surveying before? No, I have not been clam surveying before. I come from Nevada where it is desert terrain, hot, and really dry compared to the Pacific Northwest where the air is fresh, grass everywhere, and huge green trees on mountains. I was used to lizards running around everywhere to where now I all I see is tiny crabs running everywhere.
Have you ever been clam surveying before? I have never done a clam survey before. To be honest I was worried I would dig a hole and not know what a clam looked like. That wasn’t the case at all. The first holes I dug I found huge butter clams. It was amazing.
What is your internship about? I am working with the Swinomish Community Environmental Health Program and I will be learning about projects that will protect and promote Swinomish Community health and wellbeing. I am also learning about the 13 Moons traditional foods resources. I am excited to learn about the harvesting methods here in Swinomish Community, I eventually want to bring the harvesting methods back to my tribe in Nevada. What did you learn on the clam survey? I learned quite a bit within those couple hours we were out there in the field. I had the opportunity to learn how to use the tools to dig up the clams, measuring and identifying different clams, and weighing the clams. What did you like most about the clam survey? I liked that we got to go out into the field and get down and dirty in the mud. There were a couple times where I almost got stuck because I sunk deep within the mud and digging up the different types of clams and finding different types of shrimp. There were a lot of worms and tiny crabs as well, overall it was a great experience. What’s your superpower? A fun fact about me is that I can make music. I use to make hip/hop music before I came up to the Pacific Northwest. I haven’t really made any music since I came up this way. I feel making music is a method for me to vent the things I need to get off my chest. All I can say is that music can heal the spirit!
What is your internship about? I am working under the shellfish survey team through the Fisheries department. The clam survey on Kiket Island was the first of my many surveys. My internship is basically a bunch of fieldwork, measuring and taking samples of different shellfish around the community. The surveys are used to determine harvest quotas, biomass, and whether the habitat is sustainable. What did you learn on the clam survey? I encountered so many different organisms, like the ghost shrimp, sea shore crabs, and the different species of clams. I had no idea there were so many types living in such small parameters of each other. What did you like most about the clam survey? I love that I get credit for literally “playing” in the mud. I enjoyed being outside and on ancestral grounds, participating in a survey that will benefit the tribal community. I am grateful for the opportunity to do what I love and give back to my community as well. What’s your superpower? For as long as I can remember, I have been fascinated by marine life and the biology that makes up everything living among it. I would have to say my superpower is determination and resilience. Something I have been told my whole life is, you’re going to get knocked down more times than you’re going to succeed. That is something that has stuck with me. Every obstacle I have faced I have been even more determined to overcome it. That is why I am here today, participating in this shellfish survey project with an amazing team!
The view from Kiket Island on the morning of the survey.
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Wa-Walton Play Day
For the past four years Bettina and Darryl Sylvester have personally hosted the Wa-Walton Play Day in honor of Bettina’s grandfather, the late Bob Joe Senior (Wa-Walton). As a former leader of the Swinomish Tribe, Bob left a legacy of caring for all children of Swinomish. Bettina honors her grandfather by hosting the Wa-Walton Play Day every summer for all of the kids of Swinomish.
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Science Corner
BEACH Grant Helps Expand Sanitary Surveys Jason Thompson, Water Quality Technician II
Water Quality Technician Brendon Kasayuli conducts a sanitary survey at Snee-Oosh Beach while kids splash in the water nearby. Photo: Jason Thompson
In 2016 the Swinomish Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) began conducting regular sanitation surveys at three of the Reservation’s recreational beaches.
helpful feedback on which beaches we should consider adding to our list of monitored locations. Beaches garnering the most interest include: Martha’s Bay, Hole in the Wall, Cedar Hats, and the Swinomish Channel near Smokehouse Sloughs.
During these surveys we observe beach and environmental conditions, collect bacteria samples, and use equipment to measure aspects of water chemistry. The purpose of this monitoring is to spot conditions that may lead to public health problems, such as swimmers contracting viral gastrointestinal illness by coming in contact with the water. Children and elders are especially vulnerable to these illnesses. You may have seen us conducting these surveys at Snee-Oosh beach, the fishing docks, or Lone Tree Point.
With expanded funding we plan to increase our ability to notify you, the community, when conditions may be unhealthy. Currently we post issue advisories on the homepage of the Swinomish website, as well as sample results on DEP’s page of the Tribe’s website and on our department’s Facebook page. Soon we will erect notification signs at all monitored locations. Keep an eye out for them!
Do you have questions or feedback about this program? Please contact Jason Thompson: jthompson@swinomish.nsn.us, (360) 854.8584. sw d bš qyuuqs News 29 e e
With our program maturing each year, we now expect to receive an additional EPA grant through the federal BEACH (Beaches Environmental Advisory and Coastal Health) Act. Swinomish will be the second Coast Salish tribe and the fourth tribe in the United States to be a part of the program. Thanks to the new grant we plan to expand our surveys to more locations on the Reservation by the end of this year. DEP staff recently reached out to the Swinomish Community for input and received
In the future we intend to use collected data to create a predictive model, enabling us to forecast unsanitary conditions at the beaches and issue advisories preemptively.
Cultural Orientation with Larry Campbell Dean Dan Jr., NWIC Intern at Community Environmental Health Intern
JULY 9 –– A group of Swinomish employees and I met with Larry Campbell in the Social Services Building for a cultural orientation. I learned about this orientation through my work here with the Community Environmental Health Program. While the orientation schedule started promptly at 9am, we settled into our seats closer to 9:30am. Larry kindly reminded everyone that we were on “Indian time,” which sparked laughter among the group. We began by introducing ourselves, proceeding through the group in a counterclockwise direction; at the time we did not know we were identifying with a Coast Salish tradition. Larry later explained that using the clockwise direction is a tradition of eastern plains and southwest tribes. The group became engaged from this point on. Larry’s speech set the atmosphere for the orientation: He spoke about elders and the sacred traditions of our people. He explained that Swinomish are the people of the
ATTENTION: AFTER-HOURS HOUSING & UTILITY EMERGENCIES
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water and that we have lived next to the Skagit Bay for generations. Through his words it became quite clear – we as a people have been here since the time of mind, or since time immemorial. The history and knowledge that weaves together between the generations is mostly kept within the family. For instance, one family may be good at cooking fish, so that family will have great relationships with all of our fishermen. As the orientation continued, we began to understand some of the unique characteristics of our community, but the group’s energy changed when conversation turned to historical or generational trauma. Always the quintessential reader of audiences, Larry turned the energy upside down. Larry spoke of how international law does not view the United States as the supreme law of the land, that in fact it is Indian treaties that are the law of the land. When the Indians signed the treaties, tribes were allowing the American government to settle within the coastal boundaries of this continent without harm to
settlers, or warfare against the government. Larry’s cultural orientation is a positive engagement that focuses on the foundational traditions of the Swinomish people. The seafood that lives within the tidal zones of the Reservation are cultural indicators that supplement our spirit, feed our heart, and allow us to revisit old memories. As the orientation wrapped up, I was gently reminded of the kindness that comes with our teachings. Larry was quick to point out that one of his teachers was my greatgrandfather, Morris Dan. As my great-grandfather’s namesake, Wahduh-pah, I have a deep appreciation for what Larry has to share, for he was once a student that is now my teacher.
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KUKUTALI TOMBOLO RESTORATION Todd Mitchell, Environmental Protection
New SHA Executive Director: Lance Simons Robin Carneen
Following the retirement of John Petrich in May, Lance Simons joined the Swinomish Housing Authority as the new executive director.
The next phase of this project this project includes restoring Kukutali’s tombolo, the long sand bar stretching from the mainland to the island. Approximately 150 feet of road will be removed in order to restore the original beach, tidal water movement, sediment transport, juvenile salmon fish passage, and forage fish habitat. This work will be performed by the Swinomish Tribe and contractors, as well as Skagit River System Cooperative who will be subsidized by Recreation and Conservation Office and Northwest Straits restoration grants. Kukutali will remain open to the public once restoration is complete; however, the area will be inaccessible during the highest tides as several feet of water will cover the restored tombolo for short time periods, just like at Lone Tree Point. KUKUTALI CLOSURE NOTICE: AUGUST 6-17 Kukutali Preserve parking lot and access road/ Kiket Island trail will be CLOSED from AUGUST 6 17 due to beach restoration that will begin at the Kiket tombolo, which is where we are removing the causeway road and shoreline armoring (riprap).
Originally from Winlock, Washington, Lance is a graduate of The Evergreen State College. His wife of 28 years, Sandra, as well as their four children and two granddaughters are enrolled tribal members of the Ketchikan Indian Community. He is an avid University of Washington Huskies football fan and is excited to be back in the Pacific Northwest working for the Swinomish Housing Authority. Please stop by the Swinomish Housing Authority and welcome Lance to the community! Our office is open Monday-Friday from 8:30am-5pm. Swinomish Housing Authority 17547 First Street La Conner, WA 98257
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We are nearing the end of a six-year improvement project at Kukutali Preserve, a project totaling over a half million dollars. This restoration dream is a reality thanks to research, design, and construction grants, and the dedication of all involved.
Lance brings 20 years of experience working in tribal communities to this position. Prior to his hire Lance served as housing director for the Big Valley Rancheria Band of Pomo Indians in Lakeport California. He also served as the operations manager for the Ketchikan Indian Community Housing Authority in Ketchikan, Alaska. Lance began his professional career as a community planner in the Alaska Native community of Kotzebue, Alaska.
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Swinomish Wellness Program
MEET OUR STAFF
Back row, left to right: Jessica Grossglass, David Johnson, Rose Ness, Ginger Johnson, Alette Ford, Steve Gooding. Front row, left to right: Patsy Solomon, Christine Valdez.
The mission of the Swinomish Wellness Program is to support the individual needs of tribal members and their families as they work toward emotional, physical, and spiritual balance. Services include substance use disorder assessments, individual and group sessions, a monthly family education program, and school-based prevention and intervention. Rose Ness, Wellness Center Program Director
Ginger Johnson, Chemical Dependency Professional
“I feel very blessed and honored to be able to bring my experience to the Swinomish Indian Tribal Community to serve as an advocate, helper, and to be an observer and learner of the community’s way of life.”
“I see HOPE in all situations.” Ginger has worked in addiction treatment for many years, serving several positions in long-term residential inpatient treatment. She joined the Wellness team in September 2016 and is grateful to serve the Swinomish Community.
Rose brings more than 22 years of experience in the field of behavioral health to Swinomish. As a certified Chemical Dependency Professional (CDP) and Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC), she is a seasoned clinician whose clientele range from individuals and families to larger systems in various settings such as correctional mental health, involuntary treatment, and private practice. Within those settings she has worked with tribal populations, pregnant and parenting women, adults, youth, and those with co-occurring conditions. Rose also teaches case management at Skagit Valley College, where she’s done so for more than eight years. Teaching, supervising, and mentoring are areas she loves because she learns from the students and professionals that she works with.
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Through her research on the effects of mood-altering substances and work in inpatient and outpatient settings, Ginger says she has met thousands of individuals afflicted with alcoholism and/or addictions to other substances. People come to the Swinomish Wellness Program for a wide range of reasons. Some are motivated to get well or get out of trouble. Others are motivated by the desire to get their children back, save their marriages, or keep their jobs. And for many, substance use took away personal values and morals and they want to stop living in incomprehensive demoralization. For many the fear of staying the same becomes greater than their fear of changing.
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“Regardless of why anyone seeks help, EVERYONE has a reason,” she says. “And that reason is important enough to make a start.”
their two daughters, and a host of animals that includes chickens, ducks, dogs, and a cat.
Alette Ford, Chemical Dependency Professional
“Don’t stop believing in yourself, you would be amazed by what can be done.”
“My passion is to help others see a new way of life and know recovery isn’t about getting back to where you were but building something new.” When Chemical Dependency Professional Alette Ford joined the team in 2017, she brought years of field experience with her as well as the knowledge that comes with working in a wide range of treatment services. Her career began while working as a support staff at a youth recovery house in Mount Vernon, which was when she decided the direction she wanted her life to take. “I came to a place where I knew how I wanted to make a difference and help others,” she recalls. This is when she entered the human services program at Skagit Valley College, graduating in 2012 with an emphasis in chemical dependency. In addition to her work with youth, she worked at Pioneer Human Services helping individuals in Skagit County Jail transition into the community. She is certified in Moral Reconation Therapy, which is one of the classes she teaches at the Swinomish Wellness Program.
Patsy Solomon, Office Assistant
Patsy is the newest addition to the team, having started in June to fill the new administrative assistant position. While she’s new to the department, she has a long history of working for the Tribe. “It all began with the health office in 1975, where I worked with the late Irene Siddle, Myrtle Bailey, and Maxine Williams,” Patricia recalls. There she started as a clerk and receptionist and helped start the WIC Program for the Tribe. She also worked in accounting and bookkeeping with the Swinomish Housing Authority, eventually moving to the Swinomish Bingo Hall and the then Swinomish Northern Lights Casino where she worked for more than 28 years. “I look forward to a few more years of service to the Tribe,” she says. Steve Gooding, Chemical Dependency Professional
“I was drawn to becoming a chemical dependency counselor through a desire to help others.”
Jessica Grossglass, Office Manager
Jessica’s friendly voice over the phone or smiling face in the office is one of the first contacts most people will have with the Swinomish Wellness Program. She is a familiar face for many, having worked for the Tribe for 18 years in a variety of roles including positions at the casino and bingo hall. Her work brought her to the Swinomish Medical Clinic in 2006 where she became the front desk receptionist before joining the Social Services Department to help get the Patient Registration and Billing office up and running. She joined the Swinomish Wellness Program in June 2017. In addition to her office duties, Jessica is a certified tribal assister and can help people apply and renew their health insurance. Jessica lives on the reservation with her husband Zach,
When Steve received his Chemical Dependency Professional certification four years ago, it marked yet another interesting chapter in his rich life history. As a child and into adulthood, he lived in Mexico and is fluent in Spanish. During his 10 years in the Navy he lived throughout Asia. He earned a master’s degree in cultural anthropology because he is fascinated by other cultures. “While I am not an expert in Swinomish culture, I have an extensive background of cross-cultural experiences and education that help me gain a better understanding of people who bring a different perspective to the table,” he says. Steve adds that he is really enjoying his work and feels it is a privilege to work with the community. Christine Valdez, Prevention-Intervention Specialist
“My goal in my work is to help students find their place and use their unique voice, which I think is an important part of finding balance in all of our lives, no matter our age.” sw d bš qyuuqs News 33 e e
“I love working where I do and being able to interact with the community, and to help make a positive change in the community.”
As part of the Swinomish Wellness Program Christine provides prevention and intervention to students in grades 5 through 12 at the La Conner schools. Her work includes running a youth prevention club, giving classroom presentations, providing staff education, and facilitating screening and intervention services. She also collaborates with other programs, such as the Healing of the Canoe program and the schools’ suicide prevention efforts. A Skagit resident for more than 30 years, Christine’s work has ranged from newspaper reporter to chemical dependency treatment provider to her current work with prevention at the schools. She also worked as an energy conservation educator, a VISTA and AmeriCorps volunteer, and worked at several Boys & Girls clubs. Christine is originally from New Mexico, where her family still lives. Her and her husband take road trips to the Southwest in their convertible every chance they get, especially in the fall when the aspens change color. They live in Bay View with their two dogs and two cats in a house built in 1941, which they barged up from Seattle last year to save from demolition. “The water view didn’t come with it unfortunately,” she jokes, and adds that “it was amazing seeing it come under the Rainbow Bridge.” Christine spends her time off walking her dogs, celebrating with family, game nights with friends, playing the ukulele, scrapbooking, and learning new skills such as making video histories or writing.
David says he has enjoyed the opportunity to work in the community and the people he has met ever since joining the Medical Clinic in October 2017. He graduated as a physician assistant through the MEDEX Program at the University of Washington School of Medicine. As a student this last summer he engaged a two-month clinical rotation at the Medical Clinic with Sarah Wilborn serving as his clinical preceptor. He was invited to return to a full-time position at Swinomish after that short stint. David worked as an EMT/paramedic in Spokane, Yakima, and Tacoma for about 10 years before make the decision to become a physician assistant and coming to work for the Tribe. As an outdoor enthusiast he says the Skagit Valley is an ideal place for he and his fiancée Maura to live. They spend their time together in the outdoors rock climbing, mountain biking, trail running, fly-fishing, and they hope to plant a vegetable garden. “I welcome a chance to work with more of you in the future, and I hope to see you at the medical clinic soon,” he says.
Would you like to meet the Wellness staff? Contact the Swinomish Wellness Program to schedule an appointment (360) 466.1024.
David Johnson, Physician Assistant
“The level of generosity, warmth, and kindness I have received from you and your families has overwhelmed me. So, thank you!”
Learn how to use it. Call the Wellness Program at (360) 466-1024 to pick up a kit. 34 sw d bš qyuuqs News e e
AUGUST 2018
ELDERS’ LUNCH *Lunch served Mon-Thurs. No take away meals until 11AM. Call (360) 466.3980 to cancel home delivery. Milk served with all meals.
1 WED
2 THURS
Fish Baked potato bar Green salad Melon
French toast Eggs, bacon Berries Vegetable juice
6 MON
7 TUES
8 WED
9 THURS
Hamburgers Lettuce, tomato, onion Steak fries Fresh fruit bowl
Homemade chicken soup Biscuits Green salad Blueberries
Fish Rice, baked beans Tomatoes, cucumbers Nectarines
Breakfast casserole English muffin Cantaloupe Vegetable juice
13 MON
14 TUES
15 WED
16 THURS
Tuna Sandwich Corn chips Celery, carrots, dip Fresh fruit bowl
Spaghetti, meat sauce Garlic bread Zucchini Nectarines
Fish Parsley potatoes, carrots Broccoli, cauliflower Blueberries
Pancake Eggs, bacon Berries Vegetable juice
20 MON
21 TUES
22 WED
23 THURS
Fish sticks French fries Coleslaw Fresh fruit bowl
Split pea and ham soup Oven rolls Green salad Blueberries
Fish Macaroni salad Green beans Peaches
Biscuits, sausage gravy Cantaloupe Vegetable juice
27 MON
28 TUES
29 WED
30 THURS
French dip sandwich Potato chips Vegetable tray, dip Fresh fruit bowl
BBQ ribs Macaroni and cheese Green beans Watermelon
Fish Brown rice Glazed carrots Plums
Eggs, ham Hash brown potatoes Toast, pineapple Vegetable juice
Community Dinner August 15
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CURRENT OPEN POSITIONS - As of August 2, 2018 As a full-time employee, you will be eligible for a comprehensive benefit package including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, retirement planning, and more. Other perks include generous paid time off and discounted meals. To view details about open positions and download our General Employment Application, visit swinomishcasinoandlodge.com/careers. All positions are “Open until filled” unless specified. Email applications to: jobs@swinomishcasino.com Fax applications to: (360) 299.1677
HUMAN RESOURCES & TRIBAL EMPLOYMENT RIGHTS OFFICE (TERO) JOB OPENINGS • • • • • •
Shellfish Management Biologist Tribal Mental Health Counselor Payroll Specialist Staff Attorney Chief Financial Officer Police Officer - Entry Level or Lateral
Full descriptions of the job announcements listed above are available on the Swinomish website: swinomish-nsn.gov/resources/human-resources
Mail or hand deliver to: Swinomish Casino & Lodge 12885 Casino Drive, Anacortes, WA 98221 Questions? Call Human Resources at (360) 299.1642
FACILITIES CUSTODIAN (FT) HEAVY DUTY CLEANER (FT) MAINTENANCE TECH I (FT) FOOD & BEVERAGE BANQUET SERVER (OC) BARTENDER (PT) BUSSER (FT/PT) DISHWASHER (FT) FOOD COURT CASHIER (PT) FOOD COURT LINE COOK (PT) HOST/HOSTESS (FT) LEAD TABLE SERVER (PT) RESTAURANT SERVER (FT) GAMING SLOT ATTENDANT (FT) SLOT SUPERVISOR (FT) TABLE GAMES DEALER (FT/PT/OC)
LODGE ROOM ATTENDANT (FT) MARKETING BRAND AMBASSADOR (OC) INTERACTIVE MEDIA INTERN (PT) PROMOTIONS ASSISTANT (PT) SECURITY SECURITY OFFICER (FT) SECURITY OFFICER/ EMT (FT) SECURITY SURVEILLANCE OBSERVER (FT) VALET VALET ATTENDANT (FT)
HOW TO APPLY: Return completed application, cover letter, and resume to: Personnel Office Swinomish Indian Tribal Community 11404 Moorage Way La Conner, WA 98257 Fax applications to: (360) 466.1348 Or email to: aiedwards@swinomish.nsn.us Applications must be received in the Personnel Office by 5PM on or before the job closing date. Questions? Call the Personnel Office at (360) 466.1216 or (360) 466.7353
GOLF GOLF SHOP ATTENDANT (PT) SNACK BAR HOST (PT) GUEST SERVICES PLAYERS CLUB ASSOCIATE (FT)
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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.
Cincerrae Grossglass and Liliana Gonzalez at the 8th grade promotion.