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Suquamish News
April 2020 | 1
Suquamish News Volume 20
April 2020
No. 4
Tribe Responds to COVID-19 In this issue... How to Access Tribal Gov’t — p2 Basketball Season wraps — p9 Family strategies — p8, 10, 11
CKA Goes Online — p4
Beat the COVID blues — p5
Historic Herring Run — p13
2 | April 2020
Community Calendar
Suquamish News
Events & Meetings
Office Hours & Contacts
Suquamish Tribe General Council is now scheduled for June 28, 2020 at Kiana Lodge.
Suquamish Tribe Administration Including Finance, Health Benefits, Human Resources, Human Services, Wellness: Lobby Hours: Mondays, 8am – Noon Wednesdays , Noon – 4pm Fridays , 8am – Noon
Suquamish Tribal Council For upcoming dates and information, call Rebecca Purser, (360) 900-8031 or email her at rebeccapurser@ suquamish.nsn.us.
Emergency: 911 Crisis Hotline: (888) 910-0416 Chat: www.imhurting.org (See additional info on page 5.)
Suquamish Warriors Meeting canceled in April due to the outbreak. Questions? Call Jean Belmont, (360) 601-7918.
Suquamish Police Department The Police Department lobby is available to drop off child support payments, applications, housing payments, and other PME Board of Directors government-related paperwork. Police April 1 @ 9am, Online Department staff can forward messages For agendas and log-in information, to other Tribal departments as needed. contact Brenda George, (360) 6210047 or brendageorge@clearwater Lobby Hours: casino.com. Mon-Fri, 8am –4:30pm Contact: Suquamish Tribal Gaming Comm. Front Desk: (360) 598-4334 Call Angela Brainerd, (360) 394-8652. Emergency: 911 Suquamish Seafoods Board Contact Seafoods, (360) 394-8512. Wellness Center Limited services and assistance for Tribal members will be provided: Suquamish Elders Mondays – 8am – Noon For Elders information contact: Wednesdays – Noon – 4pm Della Crowell (360) 394-8417 Fridays – 8am – Noon Donna Sigo (360) 394-8472 Contact: Human Services (360) 394-8465 Front desk: (360) 394-8558 Wellness Fax: (360) 598-1724
Suquamish News •
Published monthly by the Suquamish Tribe: 18490 Suquamish Way, Suquamish, WA 98392
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Email us at: communications@suquamish.nsn.us
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Send letters to: Suquamish News Editor, PO Box 498, Suquamish, WA 98392-0498
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Letters should include the writer’s full name, address, and home telephone and may be edited for clarity and space.
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All photo submissions must be made in JPG or PDF form, with resolution of 300 dpi or more.
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Government On-call Services Child Tribal Welfare: (360) 394-8480 Communications: (360) 394-7184/7102 Comm. Development: (360) 394-8415 Emergency Work Orders: (360) 900-7050 Emergency Utilities: (360) 710-3223 Elders Meals: (360) 394-8413 Health Benefits: (360) 394-8466 Human Resources: (360) 394-8409 Human Services: (360) 394-8465 IT Help Desk: (360) 394-8485 Finance: (360) 394-8430 Fisheries: (360) 394-8438 Tribal Court: (360) 394-8697 Wellness: (360) 394-8558
Looking Ahead ... With the uncertainties caused by the COVID-19 outbreak, the best source of updated information is the Suquamish Tribe’s website and Facebook page. Please check https://Suquamish. nsn.us and facebook/SuquamishTribe.
Suquamish Tribal Council Leonard Forsman
Chairman
Wayne George
Vice-Chair
Nigel Lawrence
Secretary
Robin Sigo
Treasurer
Rich Purser
Member
Sammy Mabe
Member
Luther Mills, Jr.
Member
Reproduction of Suquamish News, in whole or in part, without written permission from the Suquamish Tribe is strictly prohibited.
Help with Health Benefits Call us during the times listed below, and we can help with your health benefits questions.
Mon 8-12 Rebecca Jones (360) 394-8466 Tues 8-12 Misty Moran (360) 394-7135 Weds 12-4 Katie Gutierrez (360) 394-8684 Fri 8-12 Martha Mabe (360) 394-7138
On the cover Tribal Elders and sisters, Lillian (Eanie) Abler (left) and Sue Henry (right) pick up a meal outside the Elders lunch room. Elders, Chief Kitsap Academy, and ELC students are regularly supplied with meals (see page 3). Photo by Barb Santos.
Production Staff Shyla Spicer Leonard Forsman Sarah van Gelder Jon Anderson JoAnn Joe Heather Purser
Editorial Policy
Editor-in-Chief Contributing Editor Managing Editor News Editor Photography/Design Writer & Editorial Intern
Publishers of the Suquamish Newsletter reserve the right to refuse publication of letters to the editor and guest editorials. Submission of editorials and letters is encouraged. However, they represent the opinion of the author and not necessarily that of the Suquamish Tribe. As such, we reserve the right to refuse to print any letter, for any reason.
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Suquamish News
April 2020 | 3
News
Tribal Government Responds to COVID-19 Crisis testing of COVID-19, and waiving the co-pay, and deductible for Network, and Non-Network Providers. This benefit applies to COVID-19 testing only. Executive Director Shyla Spicer and staff are researching economic relief plans for Tribal members experiencing financial hardships due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Details are being finetuned, and communications will go out to Tribal members soon.
Joey Holmes (right), Ryan Boure (left), and Suntayea Steinruck prepare meals in the Chief Kitsap Academy kitchen using mask covers sewn by Tribal Elder Linda Napoleon O’Connor. The covers allow staff to safely use N95 masks longer.
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s the COVID-19 outbreak began its spread across Washington state, the Suquamish Tribe responded on multiple fronts. Beginning March 16, the Suquamish Tribe shifted to reduced government operations. The vast majority of government staff began working from home, only coming into offices as absolutely necessary. Essential services that must be provided in person are conducted on modified schedules (see page 2). Meanwhile Tribal Council is asking employees and their families, and all members of our community to stay at home as much as possible and to avoid direct contact with others. The Early Learning Center and the Fitness Center are closed. Chief Kitsap Academy has switched to an online school – all students have received a laptop and are set to receive instructions from home (see page 4). CKA meals will move from a daily to a weekly delivery and are available to anyone under 18 living on the reservation who signs up. The Elders’ lunchroom is closed; meals for Tribal Elders will be made available weekly to increase preventative measures and reduce exposure to our most vulnerable population through constant contact and need to go out for supplies. Human and Health Service teams are working diligently to make grocery supplies and medications available. The Suquamish Tribe has worked to amend the terms and conditions of the Suquamish Tribe Employee and Suquamish Tribal Member health plans to add coverage for the COVID-19 testing for enrollees who meet the Center of Disease Control (CDC) criteria for testing, as determined by the enrollee’s health care provider. This includes waiving the pre-authorization for treatment or
Tribal Enterprises The Clearwater Casino closed at midnight on March 16. The Resort closed the following morning. At press time, all of the approximately 1000 employees
continued to be paid and provided with benefits as usual. “Epidemics have taken a terrible toll on our people historically, and we believe acting to protect health and safety of our guests and staff is the right thing to do,” said Chairman Leonard Forsman. Suquamish Seafoods retail store is also closed. The Masi Shop and the Chevron station continue to operate; Longhouse Texaco is closed. The Tribal Council continues to monitor the outbreak and to make decisions necessary to slow the spread of COVID-19 and protect the vulnerable members of the community. Essential services that must be provided in person are conducted on modified schedules. Meanwhile Tribal Council is asking employees and their families, and all members of our community to stay at home as much as possible and to avoid direct contact with others. These actions, along with other steps already taken, can help slow the spread of the disease, allowing local health care systems to keep up with the rate of new infections and to assist those who need intensive medical care.
What if I get sick? Tribe’s Nurses answers your questions What if I think I might have COVID-19? The symptoms of COVID-19 include fever, cough and shortness of breath. If you have these symptoms, you may have COVID-19 or another cold or flu. If you are sick and have a high-risk condition — age 60 years or over, pregnant, or have medical conditions — call your doctor and ask if you need to be evaluated in person. The Tribe is waiving co-payments if you do get tested. If you do not have a high-risk condition and your symptoms are mild, you do not need to be tested; there are no medications to cure COVID-19. Treat as you would any other virus with rest, fluids, and over the counter medication. Where can I get tested? There are multiple testing sites in Kitsap County. Your doctor will give you information about testing sites if they determine you need to be tested. You can also contact Community Health Nurses Amanda Brazeau, RN (360) 394-8594 or Barbara Hoffman at (360) 394-8468. What should I do if I get sick? • Stay home except to get medical care. • Separate from others in your home. If you can, stay in a separate room and use a separate bathroom. • Call ahead before visiting your doctor. Call ahead and tell them that you have or may have COVID-19. • Wear a facemask when around other people and before you enter a medical office. If you are not
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able to wear a facemask, then people who live with you should not be in the same room with you, or they should wear a facemask if they enter your room. Cover your coughs and sneezes with a tissue and throw used tissues in a lined trash can; immediately clean your hands. Wash your hands often with soap for at least 20 seconds. Or use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol, covering all surfaces of your hands and rubbing them together until they feel dry. Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
How can I safely help a family member or neighbor who is shut in or sick? Ask if they need help. You can help others without getting too close to them. What support will the Tribe offer if I’m sick? You can call the Community Health Nurses: Amanda Brazeau, RN (360) 394-8594 or Barbara Hoffman, RN (360) 394-8468, M to F 8am to 4pm. The Human Services Department may also be able to help (360) 394-8465. Have other COVID-19 Questions? Call 2-1-1 or Washington State Hotline: 1-800-5250127. For questions about the Tribe’s response to COVID-19, email covid_questions@suquamish. nsn.us.
4 | April 2020
Suquamish News
suquamish.nsn.us
Education News
CKA staff and students pivot to online learning Chief Kitsap Academy Vice Principal Rex Green hands off a laptop to junior Kaiden Finkbonner as the school prepared to shift all teaching to online instruction.
CKA science teacher named Outstanding Educator
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hief Kitsap Academy teachers and staff issued nearly 90 laptops to students as part of an effort to maximize remote education opportunities during the Covid-19 outbreak. “Our staff have been working incredibly hard as we transition from classroom-based learning to remote learning,” said CKA Principal Lucy Dafoe. “The school will do everything it can to keep students connected and knowledge flowing during the health crisis,” she said. “Teachers and staff will have a number of ways to interact with students,” she said. “We will be using Google Classroom, Google Hangout, packets, projects, books, etc. Teachers will create online office hours where they will be available to meet with classes or have a time to answer questions and interact with students.” In addition to the laptops, students without internet connections in their home were provided with hotspots so they can get online. Dafoe said teachers understand that each household may have different responsibilities, workloads and expectations during this time. “We ask for your support as you will be a key piece to remote learning,” Dafoe wrote in a note to parents and guardians. “Please stay in touch with teachers while we balance workloads.” One key goal is that remote learning should not be exhausting or overwhelming, she said. These are difficult times and no one wants to make them harder. “Yet, we also expect instruction to continue,” she said, while acknowledging this will be a new experience for teachers and staff as well. “We will be working, grading,
monitoring, contacting, and writing plans remotely from our homes as well. Our staff are also affected by social distancing and have extended family, their children, and their own items to attend to as we navigate tasks related to Covid-19.” Meanwhile, the school has also been delivering free “grab and go” sack lunches along a school bus route, not only to CKA students, but for any children 18 years old or younger in the Port Madison Indian Reservation area. Jon Anderson
Fitness Center News HIIT/CROSS CLASS STUDIO CYCLE CLASSES Classes Suspended until Facility Reopens
Coming Soon Canoe Conditioning Spring Weight Loss Challenge Youth SAS: Strength, Agility, Speed Follow Us On Facebook for Information and Workouts!
Suquamish Fitness Center
he new school year was just starting when Chief Kitsap Academy leaders found out their science teacher was leaving the area suddenly. In the midst of pursuing her master’s degree in physics education, Amber Stvartak said she was ready and willing to step in. By all accounts, she hit the ground running. She soon had students building tabletop catapults. And then watermelon-hurling full-size catapults. She collaborated with the Suquamish Tribe’s culture leaders, and arranged for students to tour the Tribe’s hatchery where they sorted eggs, spawned salmon, and measured water quality. These are just some of the reasons why Stvartak was recently selected as one of Kitsap County’s “Outstanding Educators” by the The Delta Kappa Gamma Society International. Headquartered in Austin, Texas, and with chapters around the world, the professional society is dedicated to promoting excellence among women educators. Honored in a ceremony on March 3 at Poulsbo City Hall, Stvartak said she believes in creating positive, meaningful relationships with students and the community. Co-workers describe Stvartak’s classes as engaging and interactive, where students thrive in an environment that promotes hands-on learning, relevant knowledge, and high expectations. Stvartak credits the resources and support from Principal Lucy Dafoe, Assistant Principal Rex Green, the Suquamish Tribe Elders, and the students themselves for her success. Truth be told, she says she didn’t really know how much she wanted to teach until she was in the classroom. Seeing students excited about science for the first time caused her to realize that teaching science is indeed her passion, and she is excited to continue developing and sharing her craft.
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Suquamish News
April 2020 | 5
Community News
Beat the COVID Blues: 6 Ways to Wellness
The Suquamish Wellness Center has moved all individual services to remote video contact. Wellness is not currently offering groups, but we are exploring options for video support groups.
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don’t know about you, but I have been waking up every morning with a sense that something is wrong. My sleepy mind scans the usual suspects. What is it? Oh yes … it’s the fear of the unknown; at present, a fear of COVID-19. My brain immediately sends signals to my body; a sensation of butterflies in my stomach, worry for those I love. As I swim up from my sleepy state, the emotional part of my brain begins to kick in; many of the things I would like are not in my control. Feeling out of control does not feel good. Perhaps you can relate to my early morning experience. Maybe your worries wake you up at night. You may carry a feeling of free-floating anxiety or depression that is visible in your actions and behaviors, in the ways you speak with others and to yourself. Most of us have never experienced in our lifetimes what is currently happening in the world and in our country. At times like these, it is important for me to remember there are things I can do to feel better when I am fearful and uncertain. I thought these reminders might help you as well. 1. Uncertainty is one of the most difficult things we experience. We evolved to anticipate what might happen in order to problem-solve solutions before something occurs. However, worry is not the same thing as problem solving! One involves spinning our wheels without traction, further fueling feelings of anxiety, depression and fatigue. When we dwell on the “what-ifs,” repeatedly seek reassurances that aren’t possible, or obsessively search the Internet for answers, it is like scratching a mosquito bite in your brain; it will itch more, encouraging the same ineffective behaviors, negatively impacting our immune system over time.
Wellness Center Is Online
Please let us know if you are struggling or have any needs during this time. We would also love to talk with you if you want to share any successes, joys, or just reach out to talk to someone. Contact individual providers (check https://suquamish.nsn.us/ home/departments/wellness-center for a full extension list) or the numbers below to schedule. Main Line
360-394-8558 General requests/questions
Brian Burwell
360-394-8553 Substance Use Disorder
Jonathan Glover 360-394-8601 Mental Health Supervisor Dr. Lisa Pratt
360-394-8692 Psychiatric and MAT
Social Distancing Walk Challenge Social Distancing Walk Challenge
emotions are universal and are there to serve as messengers, telling us to pay attention or to take action. It is okay to admit the things over which we have no control — for example, how long COVID-19 will affect our communities, how soon a vaccine will be available, whether those we love will become ill, or whether we ourselves contract the virus. We cannot control how others react, take precautions, social distance, or hoard. 4. Ask, “What else is true?” There are many things we can control, such as our own attitude, actions, communication with others, and whether we follow Health Department recommendations. Self-care is important every day, but particularly during times of stress. Everyone needs a list of their essential components of well-being, including but not limited to taking meds as prescribed, eating healthy, sleeping well, exercising, limiting time listening to the news, surfing the Internet, and interacting with social media. We can manage what is good for us by asking, “Does this behavior contribute to my well-being or is it preventing me from thinking clearly?”
2. The best and fastest way to stop the worry cycle is to BREATHE! This simple action immediately sends a calming message to the brain, giving the mind a chance to think differently. Strong emotions hijack all other parts of the brain. Breathing allows the prefrontal cortex to get back online so the brain can make wise decisions with all the information at its disposal. There are many websites with instructions for breathing, med- 5. Ask, “What is the right thing for me to do right now?” Develop a plan and problem-solve obstacles and itations, and contemplative centering prayer. solutions. Modify the plan as needed, as we are currently living in a world of changing facts and circumstanc3. Practice labeling emotions and sensations. Ask “What am I feeling, and how strongly am I feeling it, on es. Acceptance of the current situation, our emotions, and thoughts does not mean we approve of all that is a scale of 1-10?” The minute the emotion is observed and named, it decreases in intensity. It is okay to admit happening; it simply allows us to detach from their hold on us. Willingness to turn the mind towards acceptance to and respect anger, fear, and sadness. These human
Walk day for a Meet 10,000 the goal ofsteps 10,000per steps/day minimum of 5 days/week and win a prize! 5 days per week andwalked win aalso prize! Most steps wins a grand prize. (5,000 forandbeginners.) Get Outside Walk! Begins April 1st. Most steps* 5,000 walked wins a Grand Prize. steps for those who are just starting GetEmail outside and walk! SKunold@Suquamish.nsn.us To get your tracking Begins April 1. card. Email SKunold@Suquamish.nsn.us to get your tracking card
frees up energy to experience joy and wisdom in the midst of sadness and anxiety. 6. It is said in the Chinese language, the symbol for “Crisis” is two symbols combined, one for danger and the other for opportunity. When I feel a sense of danger, it helps me to look for opportunity within the crisis. It might be an opportunity to serve others, to empathize, to draw closer to loved ones, or to deepen a compassionate connection with the world. We can telephone or text to see how our neighbors are doing, we can enjoy music, nature, and books. My guess is you will be able to creatively add to this list! If you need a more individualized approach to the difficulties you might be having with the current crisis or with any other problems, I encourage you to talk with a licensed mental health provider at the Wellness Center or elsewhere. Lori Glover is a mental health counselor and former head of the Wellness Center
Suquamish News
6 | April 2020
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Government
Suquamish Chairman Leonard Forsman and Tribal Elder Marilyn Wandrey at the 2019 Chief Seattle Days ceremony at Chief Seattle’s grave.
Chairman’s Report A
s you are all acutely aware, the COVID-19 pandemic has changed our lives in many ways in a rapid fashion. We, as Suquamish people, are familiar, through our oral histories, of the severe impacts of disease on our people since first contact. With this history as a backdrop, Tribal Council has had to make many challenging decisions in a rapid fashion, especially in light of the COVID-19 virus being such a specific threat to our Elders. Governor Inslee has acted quickly, and we have been in contact with his office through conference calls on decisions the State of Washington has made to lessen the spread of the virus, especially through social distancing. Immediate responses Our first major decision was in regard to our General Council meeting. With the advice of Tribal community leaders, we decided to postpone the meeting as we came to the realization that we could not hold the meeting without potentially compromising the health of our Elders. Our next major decision was regarding closure of our Tribal government offices and facilities for an initial four-week period. We made that decision after receiving executive staff guidance on what essential services needed to be maintained, what essential staff were needed in the office or in the field to provide services, and how we could best enable staff to work from home. Our last major decision was made in collaboration with the Port Madison Enterprises Board regarding closure of the Suquamish Clearwater Casino Resort. The Council and Board decided to close our casino/resort operations for an initial two-week period in the interest of public health. We are doing all we can to lessen the economic impacts to our Tribal government services,
PME employees, and our Tribal citizens. Tribal Council has also initiated a work-from-home approach. We held our first ever Virtual Tribal Council meeting on March 23rd using GoToMeeting software. Our meeting was different, but very effective. Thanks to Shyla Spicer and Rebecca Purser and our IT Department for making this so smooth. Collaboration We have participated in numerous conference calls, happening multiple times a day, on COVID-19 planning with federal, state and local governments. This has included calls with the White House Office of Intergovernmental Affairs involving the Indian Health Service, Bureau of Indian Affairs, United States Department of Agriculture, The Centers for Disease Control, National Institute of Health, Federal Emergency Management Agency and the Small Business Administration. This call gave Tribal leaders information from federal agencies on resources available to assist Tribes as they cope with the COVID-19 crisis. We have also been on calls with Governor Inslee and his staff regarding state public health information and initiatives. This information is useful for Tribal leaders to determine our actions in the context of the state’s position on public health strategy with the understanding that we are not under state authority, but we have a strong interest in maintaining public health. We have also participated in inter-Tribal conference calls including some informative sessions with the National Congress of American Indians, the Native American Finance Officers Association, Affiliated Tribes of Northwest Indians, the National Indian Health Board and the Port Gamble S’Klallam Tribe. These calls
set the stage for our efforts to influence legislation and funding in the COVID-19 funding packages in the U.S. Congress to include Indian Country. Natural resource protection and more Despite the limitations resulting from the COVID-19 social distancing impacts, we continued to conduct meetings by telephone to address non-COVID-19 issues, including natural resource protection, cultural resources, and government-to-government activities. The West Sound Partnership for Ecosystem Recovery held a call to discuss allocation of federal funding for habitat restoration projects on the west-central side of Puget Sound, finalize incorporation of the former West Sound Watershed Council into WSPER and re-appoint me as the co-chair of WSPER. Council members and staff had a telephone conference with Kitsap County Commissioner Ed Wolfe to discuss water quality in Dyes Inlet that has impacted our ability to harvest shellfish in this traditional gathering area. We strongly encouraged the County to work with our staff on identifying pollution sources and repairing these problems quickly. We also had a call with the staff of the Governor’s Office of Salmon Recovery to get an update on the State’s efforts to restore salmon runs. Council also met with our Seafood Enterprise Board to discuss strategies for carrying over geoduck allocations to the 2020-2021 harvest season. We were unable to harvest the pounds in the previous season because of Chinese market conditions caused by the coronavirus and the increased tariffs. Tribal leaders held a telephonic meeting with University of Washington President Ana Mari Cauce to discuss the UW Law School and its Indian Law program. This discussion focused on recruitment of Tribal faculty and Tribal students to continue the programs’ influential role in the field of Indian law. The Suquamish Museum Board also held a virtual board meeting to get updates on the Museum closure and telework arrangements with staff. I met with Lisa Rodriguez, Chief Seattle Days Coordinator, to review the 2020 CSD Budget, which includes new initiatives for this year’s celebration. Local religious leaders held a meeting at the House of Awakened Culture to discuss strategies to address the issues regarding community policing and race and community relations in the wake of the shooting of Stonechild Chiefstick. This meeting was well attended by faith leaders and an encouraging display of support for the Chiefstick family. Chief Kitsap Academy held a picnic barbecue sendoff for the CKA Boys Basketball Team before their trip to Spokane to play in State Regional playoffs. Congratulations on a great season! Leonard Forsman, Chairman, Suquamish Tribe
Suquamish News
suquamish.nsn.us
April 2020 | 7
Government
Leadership During the Outbreak
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even years ago I was elected to the Suquamish Tribal Council. There have been so many accomplishments, and also some serious struggles and difficult decisions. But I never imagined that we as leaders would vote to shut down our casino and reduce government operations in the wake of a global pandemic. It’s been an agonizing two-plus weeks for so many leaders. I’m exhausted on a soul level, from making life altering decisions with constantly evolving data. I’m proud to serve with the men on this Council, who do not back down from complicated decisions. Instead we dive into all of the nuances and complexities, because in this line of work, there are no easy choices like “just close it.” No, we think of how can we support our employees, how we meet the needs of our community, who will cook for Elders, who will educate our youth, how will families afford food, what type of precedent does this set, who is in danger, how do we communicate essential information, will our federal grants cover closure leave, are we out of compliance on anything, etc... It’s my honor and duty to do this work in the spirit of my ancestors and to create a path for all my future relations. P.S. A big thank you to the healers on the front lines of this pandemic. The work we’ve been doing is to support you and your work. Thank you for the quick response and clear policy recommendations. My hands are up to you in humble gratitude. Robin Little Wing Sigo Suquamish Tribal Council
* One per Tribal Household * Available at the Tribal Administration Building Lobby
SUQUAMISH TRIBAL COUNCIL
Suquamish Tribe Hires and Transfers Name *Adam Jackson Neely Laplante-Boyce Emma Lenoir Joel Houpt *Angee Harrington Vincea Hibberts Vicente Pagaduan-Alarcon Shawn Jones Jessica Brink *Sammy Mabe * Suquamish Tribal member
Department Tribal Child Welfare Early Learning Center Early Learning Center Gaming Suquamish Museum Early Learning Center Gaming Seafoods Early Learning Center Health & Fitness
Get Outside Safely! Beat Back Cabin Fever
Don’t be afraid to get outside. Now more than ever, your physical and mental health will get a boost from walks, runs, bike rides, and even some quiet moments of gardening outside. Just be sure to practice social distancing, say Suquamish Tribe leaders. Keeping at least a six-foot distance is the new friendly and wise way to get out and about. And it’s the only way to protect your health and that of your loved ones at home.
8 | April 2020
Suquamish News
Families Making the Most from Slowing Down
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suq̓ ʷabš ʔiišədalʔtxʷ
Suquamish Family & Friends Center Suquamish Elders shared the importance of family trees and researching your lineage
Cody Smith and his son Alushuk take time to enjoy Old Man House beach.
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uring the statewide shut down, many Tribal members say they are doing more of what they value most — spending time with family. Before the pandemic reached Washington state and caused families to begin responsible social distancing practices, the days were full of demands between work, school, and extracurricular activities. Even during the summer months when her children were on break, Tribal member Jennifer Hess says she still didn’t get the chance to do everything she wanted with her kids. “Summer is always more of a vacation for them, so we make sure we go out and do things,” she says. Things such as camping, family drives, and trips to the movies, not how to properly sort and wash laundry, or how to mathematically adjust ingredients to make different proportions for recipes. Like many other Tribal members, Hess is using quarantine as an opportunity to teach her kids essential life skills. In addition to completing the homework and learning objectives Hess now must teach to her younger two. Hess cooks with her children three times a day, and each week she shows them how to clean something around the house. The newly acquired skill is then added to the children’s weekly chore list so they can practice what they’ve learned. But chores and homework are not all they do. In addition to playing old board games and inventing new ones, Hess and her kids all gather in the living room for ten minutes a day to meditate as a family. “They don’t always like it,” Hess says of her three children, “but afterward they are always much calmer whether
they’ll admit it or not.” Other Tribal families are finding ways to relax and enjoy this time together too. Although on-call and working from home, Rachel Nellenbach says she is glad to have so much extra time with her three sons. Whereas before she would be busy most days getting Sean, Ricky, and Ethan ready for school and herself off to work, she is now able to spend more relaxed leisurely mornings with her family over breakfast. After doing their homework each day, the boys go about accomplishing different tasks around the house and yard together with their mom and her boyfriend, Chris Santos. Recently the family was able to work together and complete a chore neither Nellenback nor Santos had enough time to get to in between their former schedules. A jumbled pile of wood for the winter is now nicely piled in stacks. Tribal members like Katia Moran are increasing the amount of time they spend doing things they enjoy. Currently, Moran is cooking more from scratch and going for walks to take in new scenery and stay active. Another Tribal member, Windy Anderson, decorated her cousin Shayna Bagley’s front porch on her birthday to surprise her when she got home from passing out lunches to Elders. Adhering to social distancing, Anderson couldn’t spend time with Bagley as she usually would have, but she didn’t let that stop her from doing something to show her cousin her birthday is still important and that she matters. Like Anderson, or any Suquamish person will tell you, nothing in life means more than family regardless of whatever happens in the world. Heather Purser
First week of March we had three Suquamish Elders come to suq̓ ʷabš ʔiišədalʔtxʷ and share their experiences in researching their family trees and why is it important. Youth participated in discussion and games each Elder had for the youth, from word scrambles to “Who is your Family.” We would like to thank Betty Pasco, Marilyn Wandrey, and Peg Deam for all the history and knowledge they shared with our youth.
Peg Deam shares her research on Suquamish Families; Betty Pasco shares her family book with traditional names and family history; Marilyn Wandrey speaks with our youth.
March Wellness Wednesdays We had just a couple Wellness Wednesdays in March with our Suquamish Health and Fitness Manager Stephanie Kunold and our nurses.
Above: Stephanie Kunold, Kanai Papi Lawrence, Hailey Nichols, Emily Castaneda Sigo, Kate Stanslowski, Payton Hagen, Josh Oliver, Nate Katz, Joey Holmes, Neveyah McBride, Aaliyah Norris-Kennedy, Sean Oliver, Victoria Fleetwood. Front: Isaac Oliver, Eileen Bello, Teylor Ives, Cisse Trawally
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Suquamish News
CKA Bears Play at State
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he Chief Kitsap Academy Bears Boys Basketball team culminated their record-breaking season as the North Olympic League Champions and 13-5 regular-season record. Their post-season road ended with a tough loss to Garfield-Palouse at the State Regional Tournament in Spokane. “They played their hearts out, just like every game this year, fighting for every point,” said CKA Assistant Principal and Athletic Director Rex Green. “One game highlight included Topher Old Coyote receiving the Sportsmanship Medal, which is selected by the tournament director. Topher is one of the shortest players on the team, but he got four three-pointers during that game, and three of them were in a row.” Green said he’s proud of everything the team accomplished together, and “I’m already looking forward to the great things they’re going to do next year. I’m also really excited about the growth of the girls team. They’re going to be a force to contend with next year as well.” By JoAnn Joe and Jon Anderson Left: Alonso Wilson moves in for the steal. The Bears huddle during a break in the action. Right: Tyler Marquez takes it up for two points. Bottom: Tyler Marquez & Austin Wion-Rathbun.
The Season When the Air Was Let Out of the Ball The 2020 basketball season was not what we expected. In my 50-plus years of playing and coaching youth basketball, there has never been a season that has had an ending like the 2020 season. We had a total of 8 teams participating in the Kitsap Pee Wee Association and Poulsbo Parks & Rec. programs. Unfortunately we were unable to finish our season due to the COVID-19 virus. We played a total of 74 games beginning in January and going through the first part of March. All of our teams finished with winning records, and the kids continued to play hard, improve their skills, and work as teams. We had a total of 5 Pee Wee teams, AA (14 and under boys), Boys B (11 and under), Boys D (9 and under), Girls D (nine and under) and EE (6 and under). The Boys AA finished the season 9 and 1 and first place in league. The Boys B finished 5 and 5, in third place. The Boys D finished undefeated at 9 and 0, in first place; Girls D finished at 6 and 4 in third place. And the EE played a total of 9 games — no standings were kept in
this division. In Parks & Rec. League, we had a total of 4 teams this season. All the teams finished with winning records. The 7th- and 8th-grade girls finished in 3rd place in the league tournament. The 7th and 8th grade boys finished with one loss on the season and were in the semi-finals ending season tournament when the season was canceled. The 5th and 6th girls finished with one loss. I would like to thank the Sports & Rec. staff, Magdalena Turrieta, We-laka Chiquiti, Charlie Wilson, and mentor Shawn Jones for all of the time they put in working with the youth in practices and games. I would like to thank the players for all of their hard work, we are very proud of you. I would also like to thank the Suquamish Tribe and the parents for their continued support throughout the season. Once we are cleared to come back to work, we will continue to have open gym, practices and other sports activities. Stay healthy and safe! Craig Miller
April 2020 | 9
Suquamish News
10 | April 2020
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Activites to do at home pədx̌ʷiwaac
Time of Whistling F I N C H V R K S O X J B Z K T N M X M
T H B Y Z P B T B P K I H K Q E L O T U
E O Z L Z L Q J W W A D F D V Q U U A W
H L L C U G J U A O A R L A P X N R Q M
A D G E D Q C H N J R M R W C T I N R Z
T L J A V F L D P G C C R O B W B I K O
Z A M K E I E A P T C K J D W L O N L C
Y W I S A D S K W V B C R K J F R G P M
H E I T R J L L O K H K H D R T Q D M D
D I D I E K F A J T K H O G F J K O G W
N E F C H G I L B H A L L A O W L V J Z
R Y U T S J U I I F Y U I O J M S E O M
S C Q Y I B M W Y C W Y X E M Q K R A L
E L Y A F C R D Z L K Z I T U S O G M M
A X C J G E Q I Q N G E Y X H T W Z O G
G C O F N A I E U Q W N R E C C L T R W
U J M V I Y W U V P M H R T V E G O H A
L P G U K Z M F F N G S K Z A K P F P P
L H U M M I N G B I R D P N E I Y X K A
T T C T N O R E H E U L B G A A L C O N
Find these birds: BALDEAGLE BLUEHERON BLUEJAY CROW FINCH FLICKERTAIL
HUMMINGBIRD KINGFISHER LARK MOURNINGDOVE OWL RAVEN
REDTAILHAWK ROBIN SEAGULL SPARROW WREN
Color me! See Coloring challenge under the frogs.
From suq̓ ʷabš ʔiišəd ʔaltxʷ Stay home, stay safe!
Due to COVID-19, suq̓ ʷabš ʔiišəd ʔaltxʷ (Suquamish Family and Friends Building, aka Suquamish Youth Center) most activities have been postponed. As the restriction is lifted, activities will be announced on the Suquamish Tribe Facebook page and website. Meanwhile, enjoy these activities, which you and your family can do at home. Stay safe! If you need to contact any of the suq̓ ʷabš ʔiišəd ʔaltxʷ staff, call (360) 394-8576 or email Kayla George at kpurser@suquamish.nsn.us or Barb Santos, Director, bsantos@suquamish.nsn.us, (360) 394-7107.
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Suquamish News
April 2020 | 11
Puzzles, Coloring, Recipe Lushootseed suEabSucid Word of the Month & Recipe
pədx̌ʷiwaac - April pŭd-x̌ʷay-whǒǒts
Time of Birds (Robins) Whistling Technically it is the time of whistling, but it is meant to be the time when you can hear the birds (usually robins) whistling again as it is spring. It is still considered early spring so you can still gather plants to eat. April recipe from the book: Feeding 7 Generations by Elise Krohn and Valerie Segrest Dandelion Drop Biscuits Prep and bake time: 30 minutes. Serves 4-6 Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour 2 ½ teaspoons baking powder ½ teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon dried herbs such as rosemary, marjoram, thyme, basil or chives 5 tablespoons cold unsalted butter, cut up into small pieces 1 cup milk ½ cup dandelion flowers, pulled off the base. Preparation Preheat oven to 450 degrees F. Mix dry ingredients and then add butter. Rub with your hands until the butter is the size of coarse breadcrumbs. Stir in milk, herbs, and dandelion flowers. Do not overwork. Batter should be moist and sticky but not smooth. Use a spoon to form about ¼ cup scoops. Place on cookie sheet 1-2 inches apart. Bake until the bottom is browned and the edges are just starting to brown, about 12 minutes.
Coloring challenge
Color either of these two drawings by Kate Ahvakana and take a photo of yourself holding your art. Email your pics to communications@suquamish.nsn.us or text to (206) 491-0196. Or post on your social media page and tag #SuquamishTribe. We’ll post our favorites at www.suquamish.nsn.us and on the Suquamish Tribe’s Facebook page. Thanks!
Suquamish News
12 | April 2020
From Shyla Shyla Spicer, Suquamish Tribe Executive Director
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n moments of crisis and hardship, the light of our front line heroes really shines. I am so proud and honored to work alongside such amazing leaders and staff who remain in the trenches keeping the Tribal government in motion through this pandemic. Real heroes among us are out doing jobs we cannot do without. Police officers, sanitation crews, health and social workers, finance staff, just to name a few haven’t missed a step in keeping things running. Meal prep crews are feeding children and Elders. Delivery drivers, emergency maintenance workers, and so many others are maintaining a sense of normalcy when so much is not at all normal. I am so grateful to those out there working the front lines as essential staff. Thank you for keeping critical services going and supporting our community! What many of you aren’t seeing on the front lines is our teams behind the scenes are up and running on telework to keep up continuity of our work. Our educators created online learning, engaging their students through laptop screens and the Wellness therapists set up tele-therapy as a rapid response to provide care. You are all rockstars! I couldn’t be more proud to serve the Tribal Council members who have been making bold and caring decisions under enormous pressure. Finally, I am so proud of the way the citizens of this Tribe have come together to be courageous and creative while practicing social distancing. The distance separates us, but it does not divide us. In some ways, these last weeks have felt like we are building an airplane while it’s in flight. But as a team we’re making it work. What I’ve learned about getting through challenging times is that sometimes we have to move fast by taking bold and decisive action. Sometimes we’ve got to rapidly prototype solutions to get things done. But always be transparent, honest, kind, and clear. I am proud of all these things, but I am not surprised. Times like these test our character, and what I’m seeing makes me confident that we will get through whatever is to come by pulling together.
Census 2020: Time to be Counted!
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the Census you will get a confirmation number that you can save or print. Email in your confirmation page to 2020Census@suquamish.nsn.us for weekly drawings for $25 fuel cards and other prizes. #SuquamishCounts!!!
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s of March 24, 2020 the Port Madison Reservation was at 18.5% response rate. Let’s try for 100 percent! You should have received a mailing from the Census -- you can respond online, by phone, or by mail. How to be counted as Native Checking the box to indicate that you are American Indian or Alaska Native on the 2020 census form is a matter of self-identification. No proof is required. List your principal Tribe that you are enrolled in or a descendant of. Simply write in Suquamish or PGST if you are Port Gamble S’Klallam. In mixed race households, it’s important to have the Native person be listed as “Person 1” so the whole household will be counted as a Native Household. You will still be able to list each person’s individual race later. Go to 2020census.gov and spend 10 minutes impacting the future and our community! When you complete
Comments Wanted on Proposed Stalking Code The Office of Tribal Attorney is seeking public comments for a proposed new Tribal Code chapter STC 7.XX— Stalking. The comment period is April 6 – May 6, 2020. Under the new Code, a person commits the crime of stalking if they: • intentionally and repeatedly harass or follow another person, and • the person being harassed or followed is placed in fear that the stalker intends to injure the person, another person, or the property of the person or of another person. • The fear must be one that a reasonable person would experience under the same circumstances; and • the stalker either intends to frighten, intimidate, or harass the person, or knows or should know that the person is afraid, intimidated, or harassed even if the stalker did not intend to place the person in fear or intimidate or harass the person. Under this new code, it is not a defense that the stalker was not given notice that the person did not want the stalker to contact or follow the person, or did not intend to frighten, intimidate, or harass the person. Stalking is a gross misdemeanor; however, it is a felony if: • The stalker has previously been convicted in any ju-
risdiction of any crime of harassment; The stalking violates any protection order protecting the person being stalked; • The stalker has previously been convicted of gross misdemeanor or felony stalking under Tribal, federal, or state law; • The stalker was armed with a dangerous weapon while stalking the person; • The stalker’s victim is or was a law enforcement officer, judge, juror, attorney, victim advocate, or probation officer, and the stalker stalked the victim to retaliate against the victim for an act the victim performed during the course of official duties or to influence the victim’s performance of official duties; or • The stalker’s victim is a current, former, or prospective witness in a court proceeding, and the stalker stalked the victim to retaliate against the victim as a result of the victim’s testimony or potential testimony. Copies of the proposed Code are available by emailing jcurtiss@suquamish.nsn.us. All comments or questions should be sent to Donna McNamara at dmcnamara@suquamish.nsn. us, or mailed to: Office of Tribal Attorney, STC Chapter 7.XX Stalking Comments, Suquamish Tribe, P.O. Box 498, Suquamish WA 98392. •
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Suquamish News
April 2020 | 13
Place of Clear Salt Water Herring return to Puget Sound in record numbers Tribal fisherman reap the harvest as experts untangle the mystery
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homas Cordero, Sr. squinted at the wind blowing in from the east. The white capped waters off the Suquamish dock on this recent day in March hid a blizzard of fins and silver sweeping by just below the surface. The Suquamish Tribe Elder said he couldn’t remember when he’d seen so many herring in these waters. “It’s been 20 years at least,” he said. “Maybe there’s never been this many.” All his son Michael knew was that he could hardly get his net into the water before he was straining to pull his haul back into his small fishing skiff. Repairing their nets on the dock before heading back out again, both men kept a watchful eye on the line of sea lions who were enjoying their own fishing frenzy from the abundant surge of herring just a few hundred yards away. The sea lions haven’t been the only one’s getting into the action, said Suquamish Tribe fisheries biologist Jonathan Oleyar. Seals, eagles, and a range of other sea birds have all been competing for the fish as well. A pod of orca were even spotted off of Old Man House Park.
near Port Orchard and into Liberty Bay. The herring, said Oleyar, “have been spawning from President’s Point all the way into the entrance of Liberty Bay, near Lemolo.” Oleyar said in the more than 20 years he’s worked for the Tribe, there’s been no record of enough herring for Tribal fisherman to even bother trying to catch the fish, which make excellent bait. But this year, Tribal fisherman in just one week alone were reporting hauls from 500 lbs. all the way up to 2000 lbs. “Not too shabby considering the sea mammals and birds are consuming at least that amount in just a few hours’ time,” he said. “This is an event to remember,” Oleyar added, “I just hope all these sea mammals leave when the herring run is finished or we may have an issue getting our salmon back into the hatchery!”
Untangling a mystery The historic swell of herring should largely be good news for salmon, said Steve Todd, another biologist for Return of the herring the Suquamish Tribe, who specializes in salmon recovTribal fishermen report that the schools have been mov- ery. ing southwest through Agate Passage and into the waters Pacific herring is a forage fish that is vital to the Puget Sound food web. “Herring deposit their eggs on eelgrass and other marine vegetation, and provide food for Chinook salmon,” said Todd. “Many other creatures also benefit from the herring, including larger fish, marine birds and mammals. Where there are herring, there is a frenzy of wildlife looking for their next buffet.” But herring numbers have been dwindling since the 1970s, he said. The reason why remains a mystery. “We’re still learning why herring stocks have declined in Puget Sound, but a loss of eelgrass beds, poor water quality including toxic contaminants, shoreline development, disease, predation, and climate change are among the culprits,” said Todd. But with the herring’s sudden surge comes new, more hopeful mysteries. Indeed, experts throughout the region are asking why are they coming back in such big numbers? Todd has some theories. “The impressive spawn this year might reflect a more favorable shift in ocean conditions for the herring, including abundant food – herring eat zoo plankton – and/or recovery of eelgrass beds or other marine vegetation at least in local parts of Puget Sound,” said Todd. Perhaps the more practical question, though, is will it continue?
“It’s too early to know if this big event has longer term cascading effects through the Puget Sound food web,” said Todd. “We do not know yet if this is a harbinger of large spawn events in the years ahead or a single outlier – and remnant of days long ago past – but it gives us hope.” In the meantime, Todd, Oleyar, and other experts throughout the region will keep close watch and learn all they can about the return of the herring, even as Tribal fishermen – alongside the orca and the sea lions, the salmon and the eagles – continue to enjoy their bounty. “The cultural importance of this event runs deep,” said Oleyar. “This is a time when Tribal fishers are able to harvest and gather a species that was abundant here, but until now has only been heard of in the stories passed on from their parents and Elders.” Back on the Suquamish dock, the Corderos see the line of sea lions pushing closer. It’s time to get back out on the water for another haul. Jon Anderson
Photos by Jon Anderson, Jon Oleyar, and Tom Ostrom
Suquamish News
14 | April 2020
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Community News
Youth Council Member Shyan Zaiss Completes Legislative Page Program
O Traditional Heritage Specialist
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elcome to April and I hope that it is not too full of showers, as we have had a lot of rain this year. With the COVID-19 everywhere and folks having to prepare for what is next, please use common sense and stay home whenever possible, wash your hands, cover your cough and sneezes. Listen to the reports on the news and avoid panic. General Council has been rescheduled for June 28, 2020. It will be a one-day meeting. Please remember to come listen, vote, and keep your comments short and to the point. We want to get elections done and have a good meeting. See you all in June! Something that is good for everyone is to start a journal and write down your thoughts, memories, and poems. This keeps your mind from wandering and allows you to be productive in many ways. If you are a person who beads, weaves or paints, that is a good thing to do as well and when this is over, maybe we can have a get-together and show off everyone’s work? Write out family trees and add pictures, add names and dates to the pictures, events around when the picture was taken and other special thoughts important to you and the next generations. If you have a video camera or tape recorder, make special stories with these and include them with your pictures and artwork. This is a great way to share yourself with other family members and the next generations too! I cannot be doing interviews at this time; however, I would love to share with you when the time is right and we can get together again. Our history and life experiences are so important to share and record. I would enjoy having time with you when the craziness of this COVID-19 is over. For now, please be safe, stay healthy, and remember that we are here for you. Marilyn Jones (360) 394–8526 mjones@suquamish.nsn.us
n February 4, 2020, three Suquamish Youth Council Members, Shyan Zaiss, Alan Chiefstick and Mackenzie Crow, chaperoned by CKA Education specialist Kali Chargualaf and Youth Services director Barb Santos attended Suquamish Youth Council Day at the state capital. They met with Rep. Sherry Appleton, Sen. Christine Rolfes, Rep. Debra Lekanoff and Sen. John McCoy. They each shared why they wanted to be on Youth Council as well as the legislation they supported: House Bill 2551/Senate Bill 6607 which allows students to wear traditional Tribal regalia at graduations and other ceremonies; House Bill 1713 regarding missing and murdered Indigenous people; and House Bill 2633, which requires ethnic studies materials and resources for grades K-6. While there, the Youth Council learned about the Page Program. Shyan Zaiss was inspired to apply, and she spent the week of March 8-13 participating in the legislative process, and observing state government in action, along with 12 other youth from Washington state. Zaiss was assigned to work with Representative Debra Lekanoff, a member of the Tlingit Tribe and the second female Tribal member to serve in the state House. “From being a Page, I learned that the legislative pro-
Tribal Youth Council member Shyan Ziass, with Rep. Debra Lekanoff at the state capitol. cess is a lot more complex than I originally thought it would be,” Zaiss said. “I also learned that I would love to go into politics when I'm older. Maybe run for representative. I am interested in internships at the capital as well as the Washington State Legislative Youth Advisory Council.” Congratulations on your participation and representing Suquamish Tribe and Suquamish Youth Council. We are all proud of you!
Suquamish News
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April 2020 | 15
Birthdays
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April 1 Awner Gronlund Erica Cardiel Kal-a-Kwah-te Deam April 2 James Henry Jr. Lanikai Bagley April 3 Dawn Adams Dennis Clark April 4 Cori Silvey Faith Morton Jordan Baldwin April 5 Lynn Swanson Savannah Hill April 6 Leslie Crowell Shayla Sigo
April 7 David Watson Jalysha Covarrubias Jean Belmont Katelynn Pratt Michael Zaiss Randi Smith Veronica Rhodes April 8 Ashley Bradley Felix Rhodes Jody Miller
April 9 Breanna Crenna Martin Parkinson Robert Cordero Rosemary Deam Serene Williams April 10 Clae-wha-ah Williams Maxwell Dawes Samantha Webster Sea-ots-ton Jones Jr. April 11 Kyah Pugh Niccola Armstrong
April 12 Kaikumi Rosario Tara Witcher Tracy Iseminger Trishandra Pickup April 13 Anthony Forsman Brenda Vogel Jonathan Morsette Modoulamin Suso Patricia Ostenberg April 14 Alfred Youngblood Jr. Anthony Baldwin Chal-chee-quin Williams April 15 David Adams April 16 Chelsea Jones Marcus Eller Mila Bagley-Morsette April 17 Genevieve Molina April 18 Michael Chee Sierra Jackson April 19 Conner Maloney Merle George
April 20 Kelly Contraro April 21 Ariella Pool Denise Pezzanite Erika Pugh James Wilson Michelle Kerns April 22 Daria Skundberg Ebony Neal Jacob Hill Mark Crowell April 23 Cathy Kimmel Nicholas O’Brien Ralena Maloney April 24 Cameron Younger III Henley Wilson Teri Bayes Travis Silvey April 25 Christopher Purser Hi-Ya-Ton Williams James Wilson Jesse Silvey Lea McMillan Jr. Sophia Hirschy Steven Anderson
April 26 Destiny Bakken Gabriel Reynolds Joseph Bagley Makayla Featherston April 27 Jesse Ives April 28 Enoch Scheer Lee Berlin Misty Moran Timothy Aslakson Jr. April 29 Andrew Jackson-Nickel Dylan Jackson Edward Schaefer William Lawrence April 30 Alizay Boyd Christopher Beckwith Renee Hommel Willard Pratt
16 | April 2020
Suquamish News
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May the stars carry your sadness away, May the flowers fill your heart with beauty, May hope forever wipe away your tears, And, above all, may silence make you strong. Chief Dan George Tsleil-Waututh Nation
