Puyallup Tribal News - Current Stories

Culture Day celebrates traditions of the Puyallup Tribe

Thu, 24 May 2012 11:13:16 -0700

Chief Leschi students enjoyed a sunny, fun-filled day getting acquainted with the Puyallup Tribe during Culture Day on May 11. This year's theme, "Puyallup Way of Life," helped students and staff alike learn about the programs and services the Tribe provides to protect tribal history and culture. A number of the Tribe's program departments shared information, gave demonstrations and held contests, all designed to reconnect students with the traditions of their ancestors.

Students had the opportunity to play traditional games ranging from tug-of-war to a version of shot put – referred to as "rock put" – through the Grandview Early Learning Center station. "It's great to see students get in touch with what their ancestors used to do for fun," said teacher's assistant Lindsey Keating.

Students wandered from station to station learning healthy eating tips from the Puyallup Tribal Health Authority, hearing about Native traditions from the Historic Preservation department, and many even had the opportunity to learn archery tips from Lt. Gov. Brad Owen.

In the process of learning about the history and culture of the Tribe, students were also able to participate in hands-on activities, sample food and win giveaway prizes.

The Canoe Family station taught students to make traditional cedar medallions, and the language department offered DVDs, CDs and other giveaways designed to provide students with materials to take home with them to learn and practice traditional language. After a fun, educational day getting acquainted with the Tribe, Culture Day allowed students to learn about their heritage and the importance of remaining connected with their roots.

First Fish ceremony shows respect for Puyallup icon

Thu, 24 May 2012 10:53:26 -0700

In spite of a rainy morning, the community gathered along the banks of the Puyallup River May 21 anxiously awaiting the fishermen tasked with catching the season's first fish for an annual ceremony showing respect to salmon. While the crowd awaited the fishermen's return, students from Grandview Early Learning Center sang traditional songs and drummed in harmony with each other before respected elder Dobie Tom helped lead this year's First Fish Ceremony.

After the boats arrived on shore, the fish was displayed on a wooden plank covered with leaves. The first fish was cleaned in full view of those in attendance, and the skeleton was returned to the water as Dobie Tom spoke of the importance of showing respect to the salmon. "It's very important to treat salmon with respect, because they're also a family," he said. "We hope the salmon goes back to his family to say how well he has been respected."

As part of the ceremony, the first fish was cooked, and those in attendance were encouraged to eat a piece during a dinner celebration later that day.

Tribal member David Duenas served as one of four ceremonial witnesses given the important obligation of confirming with others that the ceremony took place.

"It's so important for us to have you young ones here," David Duenas said. "You are our future leaders, and we need you to keep doing what you're doing and stay connected to your roots."

Traditionally, salmon was the main source of food for the Tribe, and an important object of respect in Puyallup ceremonies. The participation of the youth in the First Fish Ceremony represents an important step in preserving tribal history and tradition.

In an effort to learn more about Native tradition and the Tribe's roots in the area, Russell Family Foundation representatives Scott Miller and Richard Wu also attended the event in an effort to strengthen important community relationships. "A longstanding focus of our foundation is the health of Puget Sound," Environmental Sustainability Manager Scott Miller said. "And if you're going to get involved in such issues, the Puyallup Tribe is such an important piece of that. We look forward to working with the Tribe in the future."

PTHA Expanssion Underway

Thu, 24 May 2012 10:42:30 -0700

When Puyallup Tribal Health Authority's new 10,000-square-foot wing opens, members of the community will enjoy an even greater level of care thanks to the addition of new medical, dental and pediatric service areas, specialty clinics and more. The new wing will feature two floors totaling 5,000-square-feet each, and has been carefully designed using the Production Preparation Process (3P) to gain insight into the facility's design by the employees themselves.

"It is so exciting to see our employees so invested in the design process," Executive Director Chris Henry said at a groundbreaking ceremony May 16.

Tribal council, employees and members of the community gathered to celebrate this important milestone on a sunny morning that began with a blessing by respected elder Jane Wright.

"There is such a sense of accomplishment any time you can improve care for indivduals. This project is an important step forward"Bill Sterud Councilmember

"We've needed something like this for a very long time," she said. "This facility is very needed by our elders and children, and I'm so grateful to be here celebrating this groundbreaking."

The project will expand the Takopid facility from the external medical clinic wall south toward 32nd St.

The project means a great deal to members of the Tribe, particularly those who recall receiving very little in the way of health care services years ago. "Our people had so little to begin with, but we always had each other," Chris Henry said. "We've always been a strong people and we are thankful for that,"

Dr. Alan Shelton addressed the crowd, calling the start of construction a dream come true for many people. "We have been over capacity for many years, and this addition will allow us to improve our services in pediatrics and our pharmacy," he said. "We're all very excited, and grateful to those who were determined to make this happen."

The expansion is slated to be complete by the end of next year. Puyallup Tribal Council Vice Chairman Bill Sterud is especially proud of the immense work involved in making this project come to fruition. "There is such a sense of accomplishment any time you can improve care for individuals," he said. "This project is an important step forward."

State plans to lease Puyallup hatchery does not pass the ‘sniff test’ with local representatives

Thu, 24 May 2012 10:23:15 -0700

Plans for the state Department of Fish and Wildlife to lease a trout hatchery on a tributary of the Puyallup River to a for-profit seafood giant is raising questions with some elected officials and the Puyallup Tribe. The state would be paid in trout instead of money under the proposed 50-year lease, negotiated in secret without public disclosure or competitive bidding.

"Something smells fishy here, and it is not the trout fingerlings," said State Representative of the 25th District Bruce Dammeier.

Bruce Dammeier's district includes an area around the Puyallup hatchery on Clarks Creek. He feels the lease, or any deal involving the leasing of a public asset like a hatchery, should have been discussed with every stakeholder before a contract was even drafted, let alone negotiated to the point of seeking formal approval.

"I appreciate the difficult position the Department of Fish and Wildlife is in, but there are a lot of options that could have been brought to the table," he said. "We have to leverage the best options as possible to get the best outcome, and I don't think that has happened."

The proposed deal would turn over operations of the Clarks Creek trout hatchery from the state to Pacific Seafood, an Oregon-based seafood processing company. Pacific Seafood is the largest seafood operation of its kind in the nation, with more than $1 billion in annual sales. Pacific Seafood employs some 2,500 people at 37 processing plants and distribution facilities in seven states.

The private, family-owned company would "pay" for the facility by providing the state with trout during the 50 years covered by the deal. The actual trout-as-lease-payment numbers instead of periodic, cash payments have not been determined.

Bruce Dammeier believes other options could have been explored, or at least discussed with the state, tribal, local and nonprofit groups that have interest in the hatchery operations since it is an educational, recreational and economic center for the greater community. He specifically is troubled that the Puyallup Tribe of Indians, which has its own fisheries operations along the river system, was left out of the conversation.

"The 'how' we got here is not how I believe a state agency should behave. The answer to 'why' we were not notified about this has not been answered to my satisfaction at all."

Dammeier and fellow 25th District officials, Senator Jim Kastama and Representative Hans Zeiger, have written a letter to Fish and Wildlife Director Phil Anderson with a list of concerns they have about not being informed about the pending contract.

The department has stated the 70-year-old hatchery needs some repairs totaling about $2 million, money the dollar-strapped agency does not have. Fish and Wildlife's slice of the state's general fund has dropped 40 percent since 2009. And its $350,000 annual operational costs of the Clarks Creek hatchery could be saved under the deal without lowering trout production. Recently the state has been using the hatchery solely to produce trout that are distributed for recreational catching in lakes around the South Sound. The state's trout rearing would move from Clarks Creek to a facility in Lakewood, for a net gain of trout production once the Pacific Seafood numbers are added.

The elected officials, however, point out wildlife officials did not ask for money to repair the hatchery in the last budget and that a bill to privatize trout production died in the Legislature just a year ago but a lease agreement concerning Clarks Creek apparently continued without discussions with lawmakers or other agencies.

"Something smells fishy here, and it's not the trout fingerlings. I Appreciate the difficult position the Department of Fish and Wildlife is in, but there are a lot of options that could have been brought to the table" Bruce Dammeier State Representative of the 25th District

"In the case of Puyallup, we ask that any discussion of closing or selling the Puyallup Fish Hatchery be very well vetted with us and with the local community," the letter stated, noting that the Puyallup Tribe specifically should be involved.

A concern for the Puyallup Tribe is the fact that part of the federal land claims settlement involved the Tribe paying for construction of a major part of the hatchery in exchange for the state's promise to use it to increase annual Steelhead production on the Puyallup River system from 100,000 to 200,000. The Tribe has approached the state to buy the hatchery but the discussions went nowhere; more recently the Tribe asked about leasing it for Steelhead production instead of trout, but the state rejected that idea, saying the state only wanted lake trout to stock lakes for recreational fishing. Even if the state required a private operator to only produce trout at the hatchery, this deal – any deal – at least should have been a matter of public negotiations rather than a no-bid contract of a public resource like Fish and Wildlife officials did with Pacific Seafood, tribal officials said. That is especially true when wildlife officials had been apparently telling legislators and Tribal officials no such deal was even in the works.

Details of the proposed lease could be up for discussion at a Fish and Wildlife Commission meeting on June 2 and will involve public testimony before a final vote, but the final vote could occur at the same commission meeting. Bruce Dammeier, however, feels that the lack of transparency in the contract talks so far have degraded public trust in the agency that it will take a long time, and lots of details, to address concerns he has about the lease. Getting answers to those questions could now involve the governor, the county executive, the state Legislature, community groups, local governments, the Puyallup Tribe and concerned citizens because of the level of distrust news of the pending deal created.

"It is very difficult to put that genie back in the bottle," he said.

Fish and Wildlife Hatcheries Division Manager Heather Bartlett said the department received $67 million during the last legislative session for hatchery improvements around the state. That list includes the Clarks Creek facility. Lawmakers also gave the department the directive to find short and long-term ways to produce more fish with less money, and the department has some $150 million in needed hatchery repairs. Pacific Seafood would pay for the renovations to the Clarks Creek hatchery under the 50-year lease as well as produce trout for the state in lieu of lease payments. That would mean the state gets fish for less cost than if it ran the hatchery itself, exactly what the Legislature asked the department to do.

"We have to see a net benefit to the citizens of the state," Heather Bartlett said.

The details of those benefits have yet to be worked out since discussions continue.

"They are still early," she said. "But they are concrete enough that we felt we needed to brief the commission."

The question for many is whether a "net benefit," obtained in negotiations without public involvement or competitive bidding, will result in the maximum public benefit from a valuable public asset.

Honoring our Elders: Ramona Wells

Thu, 24 May 2012 10:17:10 -0700

Puyallup tribal elder Ramona Wells was born Sept. 26, 1937 in an old farmhouse situated in the Nisqually Valley near where the Red Wind Casino is today. "I have an odd story about that," she said of her birth date. "I have two brothers and we were all born on the same day and we're exactly eight years apart." Her father George McCloud (of the Puyallup Tribe) and mother Rose had 11 children altogether – six boys and five girls. "My father delivered me, and I assume he delivered the eight before me," Ramona said. After Ramona, the couple's last two children were born in a hospital in Tulalip.

Growing up with so many brothers and sisters was good for Ramona. "There were tough times, and food was short, but with such a big family we had a lot of fun," she said.

Ramona and all her siblings went to a little school in Yelm, which she described as a "one-stoplight town" back then. All six of her brothers graduated from Yelm High School and they all excelled in sports. One of them even earned a story dedicated to him on the local newspaper's sports page upon his graduation.

Ramona married her husband Reggie Wells in 1955. They had two children – Clifford and Lauren. Clifford and his wife Sue have two daughters and four grandsons. Daughter Lauren and her husband Larry Guidry have one daughter and one grandson. Ramona has three granddaughters and eight great-grandchildren altogether (three are from her children's previous marriages).

Doing field work for a time after marrying, Ramona went back to school for a six-week secretarial course. She was immediately interviewed by Group Health Cooperative, which at that time was building the state's first Group Health clinic in Olympia. Ramona worked in the South Sound office as a secretary typing out letters asking companies to join Group Health, helping the healthcare organization secure its first clientele for its first clinic. When the building was finished, her boss asked her if she wanted to go over with them to the new location, offering to train her for higher positions. She accepted and worked in medical records, then moved on to medical transcription, then to the insurance department in billing. She retired in 1995 after putting in 22 years, receiving full benefits for the rest of her life.

Reggie passed away 10 years ago, and about two years ago Ramona lost her oldest sister Regina Sanchez of the Puyallup Tribe. She was 84 years old.

"Now I have a great-grandson whose name is Reggie," Ramona said, and even better he lives right next door to her as do the rest of the grandchildren she loves so much and dotes on in her retirement years that she is so thoroughly enjoying.

Honoring our Elders: Evie Allen

Thu, 24 May 2012 10:01:12 -0700

Puyallup tribal elder Evie Allen was born on April 26, 1937. Her home was in West Olympia in the Mud Bay and Oyster Bay areas. "I lived in a float house up until I was grade school age (because) my parents were in the oyster business," she recalled. "My dad put chicken wire around it so I wouldn't fall in."

Her parents' only child, when Evie turned 6 they bought "a little house on a prairie," as Evie calls it, in Schneiders Prairie, along with some acreage. She has fond memories of her childhood home. "We had chickens, cows and pigs and gardens."

She went to Griffin School in Olympia during her elementary years, then to Olympia High School and graduated with the class of 1955. She sought higher education at Pacific University in Forest Grove, Ore. and graduated in 1959. She was a biology major and wanted to be a teacher, but ultimately she went into counseling school students and did that until she retired in 1997. She spent the last portion of her career specifically with Indian students.

"It was wonderful. I started out at Hood Canal High School on the Skykomish Reservation. I learned a lot because I was pretty much an urban Indian living in Olympia and I learned from my school kids and their parents that lived out on reservations. I enjoyed that a lot."

While she was in Oregon, Evie met Dick Allen and married him in 1959. Up until his death in 1985 he owned and operated Dick's Saw Shop in Shelton, a very successful business for chainsaws and logging supplies. He and Evie had two daughters – Toni and Linda – who live in Shelton where Evie lives now. Toni has a daughter and son. Evie said she is proud that grandson Jason and his wife Raven just welcomed a baby boy in February.

Among their hobbies and interests, Dick and Evie were serious go-cart racers with a need for speed. "And I mean fast, not just fiddlin' around," Evie said, chuckling at the memory. The couple took their daughters along to the go-cart tracks and did a lot of family things together, Evie said, including going to logging expos from where Dick was inspired to open his own business.

At 75 years young, Evie has not seemed to slow down a bit. Some of her favorite times are spent with her pals from back in high school. "There are 10 of us from Olympia High School class of '55 that have all gotten together in our later years. We hang out and go to Mariners spring training, vacation in Arizona when it's cold here, we go to a lot of games together, host dinners at each other homes..."

Treasured times are spent with her tribal family as well. Evie said in no uncertain terms that she is grateful for the Puyallup Tribe – for the friendships, the good times and mostly the stability it brings to her life.

"I am so happy that I am a Puyallup tribal member. When (Dick) died, I was only 48 and I thought oh gosh I have a lot of years ahead of me – how am I going to survive? Our Tribe is so generous with us and they make life easier. I don't have a worry in the world and it's just wonderful. And to be around all my Puyallup friends and meeting new ones – it's a wonderful life. I'm enjoying myself so much."

Elders get the place all to themselves at PTHA health event

Thu, 24 May 2012 09:47:41 -0700

It was a day set aside solely for Puyallup tribal elders on May 17, when Puyallup Tribal Health Authority opened its doors at 9 a.m. for the Honoring Our Elders Wellness event. Held quarterly at PTHA since 2009, Puyallup tribal members age 55 and up are invited to take part in this fair and the relaxed, friendly atmosphere it offers. Priority is given to elders age 62 and higher, both appointments and walk-ins.

To make elder's day even easier for its clients, PTHA did two "test drives" during the May 17 fair. One was for a new elders-only pharmacy entrance away from the bustle of the main front doors. The other test was for a centralized check-in method, where clients on elder's day make one stop to check in for all their visits that day. PTHA Patient Access Representatives staffed the check-in table on May 17. "We're checking in the people for all their appointments and they just report to the area they're going to be seen at," explained Patient Access Representative Katy Clark. "The patients seem to love it."

At every Honoring Our Elders Health event elders are offered complete health screenings, vaccine updates and dental screenings, activities, education and more. The giveaway is a favorite. This time elders received a metal, key-locking medicine cabinet including delivery and installation for any elder who requested it. PTHA is committed to promoting safe storage of prescription medications in the community.

Informational tables staffed by knowledgeable PTHA professionals provide elders with advice and instruction on all kinds of medical concerns. At the top of the list right now is whooping cough (pertussis), which has reached epidemic proportions in Washington State. PTHA clinicians administer a pertussis vaccine combined with tetanus and diphtheria all in one simple injection. No appointment is necessary – walk-ins are welcome.

"We want to make sure that folks who could bring it home to little ones are immunized because most babies get it from their caregivers," said PTHA Nurse Educator Colrain Fragoso. "And tetanus is something you want a booster for every ten years so this makes a nice way to do them all in one package."

Additional areas of concern for elders' health represented at the fair include colorectal cancer, oral heath, drug/alcohol addiction and counseling options at Kwawachee Counseling Center. Elders were given information on not only these topics, but also on how to quit smoking or chewing tobacco. Tobacco Cessation Specialist Judi Ball said she smoked for 30 years before quitting for good, so she's "been there."

"I'm all about no suffering," she says about quitting tobacco. PTHA's smoking cessation program offers prescription medications Chantix and Wellbutrin or nicotine patches and gum. Patients in the stop smoking program check in every couple of weeks, and can also take part in support groups. Those who remain tobacco free for six months and graduate the program are celebrated at a big annual dinner.

There was also information on PTHA's Wellness Challenge, one for youth and one for adults. This year-long program comes with a spiral-bound PTHA Wellness Planner to help participants chart their progress, record their goals and track their points. It also includes motivational activities, tips and information that highlight the benefits of the PTHA 2012 Wellness Challenge – get healthier, feel better, live longer, learn and participate in classes, events and activities and most of all have fun! For more information, visit www.eptha.com.

The next Honoring Our Elders Health event will be Aug. 16. For more information, call PTHA at (253) 593-0232.

Culture Day: ‘Puyallup Way of Life’

Thu, 24 May 2012 09:27:25 -0700

Chief Leschi's Culture Day was on May 11th. This year our theme was "Puyallup Way of Life." We invited different Puyallup Tribe of Indians' program departments to come share with us their programs. Students and staff got to learn what the tribe has to offer tribal members as well as community members. The students learned about the history of the tribe and culture of the tribe. There were many activities the students got to do. Each program department had a giveaway item for each student to take home. There was food samples in some of the departments. The Puyallup Tribal Council gave each student and staff a bag with the Medicine Creek Treaty and map of the Puyallup Tribe's boundaries.  Chief Leschi Schools wants to give thanks once again to the Tribal Council, Fisheries Department, Shellfish Department, Hunting/Wild Life Department, Canoe Family, Language Program, Elder's Program, Youth Program, Health Authority, Grandview Learning Center, Historical Preservation, Police Department, Children's Services, Education Department, Per Capita, Air Quality, Community Family Services, Lyle Dorman (story telling). It was a good day and we raise our hands to you with Thanks.

PTHA Residents coming this July!

Thu, 24 May 2012 09:17:02 -0700

PTHA is excited to announce that we will soon be training 2 new physicians, Brian Nelson, DO and Aaron Rhyner, DO. They both graduated from medical school at Pacific Northwest University of Health Sciences College of Osteopathic Medicine in Yakima. They will have a state license and will be in a three year training program for physicians, which is called a "residency." They are new physicians and all the PTHA providers will be their teachers, mentors, and supervisors. We will be training them in Family Medicine with cultural training and a specific Indian Health focus. At the end of 3 years, they will be independent Family Medicine physicians. The Puyallup Tribe is proud to be the first tribe in the country to have such a training program for physicians!

Staff Spotlight: Natalie Wilkins, pediatric clinic triage nurse

Thu, 24 May 2012 09:13:18 -0700

As a pediatric clinic triage nurse, Natalie Wilkins appreciates her role at the Puyallup Tribal Health Authority and her ability to get to know her patients, families and overall community. She previously worked in pediatrics at Madigan Army Medical Center, where she did not always enjoy these same opportunities and ability to work in such a tight-knit atmosphere. "Working for the Tribe is so wonderful, and it's a much more family oriented environment," Natalie Wilkins said. "Much of our staff have known their patients for so many years."

After working for the Puyallup Tribal Health Authority for only a year and a half, she admits that earning the trust and familiarity of the community can take time, but she looks forward to getting to know her patients even more in the future.

"This is much more personal nursing than what I previously had," she said. "Madigan was very regimented and strict, but here, everyone knows each other which I love."

The mother of four children originally hails from California, but has lived in Tacoma for more than 25 years.

In their down time, she and husband of 20 years, Lance, enjoy spending time with their children, Wendy, 25, A.J., 24, Brandon, 23 and Brianna, 16. "We have awesome kids, and I love being a mom," Natalie Wilkons said.

Natalie Wilkins, a Native American descendent, is hard at work researching both sides of her family to discover which tribe her family belongs to. Her great-great grandmother was 100 percent Native American, from Iowa. "My late grandmother only remembered the tribe as starting with a 'C' or 'Ch,'" she said. "I really look forward to finding out more and passing the information on to my children to have a better understanding of our heritage."

PTHA Locking Medicine Box Project

Thu, 24 May 2012 09:03:26 -0700

Prescription drug abuse is on the rise with an increasing number of teens using medications without a prescription. Many youth feel that prescription medications are safe or at least safer than street drugs. When prescription medications are accessible, it provides opportunity for youth to experiment and for children to accidentally ingest. Puyallup Tribal Health Authority has launched a new project that will help keep prescription medicines safe.

How the Locking Medicine Box Project works:

If you are a patient at PTHA you may receive a locking medicine box, if you need one, to contain your prescription medication (while supplies last). Request the locking medicine box from Community Health at ext. 215 or 396.

You can either pick up your box at PTHA or you can call the Community Health Department and request that one be installed for you. If you would like to have one installed, the contractor will coordinate an agreeable time with you.

Think about the best place to keep your medicine box. Dry, moderate temperature, safe from guests to your home and still accessible for you to access your medicine as needed.

Most importantly, keep your locking medicine box locked. Keep the key safe.

What Everyone Can Do to Help:

Lock your meds

Take inventory (know if something goes missing)

Properly dispose of medications

Education yourself – www.takebackyourmeds.org http://www.lockyourmeds.org

Talk to your children and set clear rules

World No Tobacco Da May 31

Thu, 24 May 2012 08:50:32 -0700

World No Tobacco Day is observed around the world on May 31, which draws global attention to the widespread prevalence of tobacco use and to negative health effects. Each year an estimated 443,000 people die prematurely from smoking or exposure to secondhand smoke and another 8.6 million live with a serious illness caused by smoking.*

The recreational use of tobacco with its high content of nicotine is addictive and harmful. Recreational use of tobacco is described as: smoking cigarettes or cigars, smoking commercial tobacco in pipes, chewing tobacco or snuff.

Why Should You Quit?

Smoking is the most preventable cause of death in the United States.

Smoking causes more than one in five deaths in America. *90 percent of lung cancer in men is directly related to smoking and 80 percent of lung cancer in women is caused by cigarettes.

About 23 percent of adult men and about 18 percent of adult women smoke.

About 60 percent of American children ages 4-11 are exposed to secondhand smoke at home.

On average, smokers die 13 to 14 years earlier than nonsmokers.

Since 1965, more than 45 percent of adults who have ever smoked have quit.

You can be one of the millions of people who successfully quit every year.

If you are thinking about quitting, World No Tobacco Day is the time to break the chain and start living. If you need help quitting, please call (253) 593-0232, ext. 513.

Source: National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention & Health Promotion

Groundbreaking Celebration at PTHA

Thu, 10 May 2012 13:24:41 -0700

After months of careful planning, a new 10,000 square foot wing will begin to rise at Puyallup Tribal Health Authority, with the official groundbreaking ceremony being held on Wednesday, May 16th at 9:00 am. Board Members, staff and community members will gather to celebrate the start of construction coming soon.

"It will be an exciting moment when we turn over the first shovel of dirt and begin construction on the new addition," said Executive Director Chris Henry, "We thank our Board of Directors for their support of this project as it will bring many new opportunities for PTHA and our patients."

Plans will expand the footprint of the Takopid facility from the current external Medical Clinic wall south towards 32nd Street. This expansion will add roughly 5,000 square feet per floor for a combined total addition of about 10,000 square feet. The Takopid expansion will create many opportunities including: adding new medical, dental and pediatric service areas, addition of specialty clinics, and more. The entire project is expected to be completed by the end of next year.

The groundbreaking ceremony will include a light breakfast hosted by PTHA.

Per Capita Program Designed to Meet Long-Term Needs

Thu, 10 May 2012 13:03:00 -0700

Since the Puyallup Tribe's current per capita program began in 2002, these monthly payments have helped members pay monthly bills, purchase groceries, care for their children and gain more financial security overall. Through the Tribe's Revenue Allocation Plan (RAP), the program has been carefully designed to maximize the benefit to each member.

The Tribe's RAP was designed by the Tribal Council and provides strict guidelines regulating how per capita money is divided and distributed to members. Because the Tribe uses gaming money to fund much of the per capita program, it is required by federal law to submit a RAP for approval by the Bureau of Indian Affairs, providing descriptions of how the Tribe's gaming revenue will be used. The Tribe's RAP states that 40-55 percent of its gaming revenue be used in the per capita program.

"The Tribe does use gaming revenue for several purposes, including operating tribal government, economic development, providing for the welfare of its members and per capita payments," said Law Offices Director John Bell.

Per capita funds are also regulated by the Tribe's own budgeting and planning process. Important considerations made by council include significant loans taken out to fund gaming expansion projects, along with a rapidly growing membership. "The Tribe has been paying down regularly on its loan, and finances are in great shape, but this is a factor the Tribe takes into account when it talks about spending of all types," John Bell said.

Council approves each month's per capita distribution to the membership but there is no written agreement that requires the Tribe to make these payments. "No future is guaranteed, but council is striving to maintain payments as they stand today," Controller David Peterson said. "As long as the Tribe's businesses and gaming operations continue to work at a sufficient level, council will continue to strive to make these payments."

In order to strengthen its ability to take care of its membership and growing population, the Tribe continues to diversify its revenue sources through establishing new businesses and maximizing gaming revenue to ensure the per capita program succeeds in caring for the membership for generations to come.

Providing standard monthly payments allows each member the freedom to use the money as they see fit. Although the RAP does not allow any member to access funds in advance, it also precludes creditors from requesting that funds be sent directly to them if a member owes money.

The RAP also allows each tribal member to choose the appropriate tax rate – 20 or 27 percent – that fits their own personal situation.

Although there has been much discussion regarding how the money is distributed to the members each month, council designed the per capita program to best meet the long-term needs of the membership. Although many people have expressed interest in picking up checks in person, for example, administrators require that members receive the checks by mail or direct deposit to ensure the money reaches the intended recipient, according to Per Capita Director Monica Miller. The per capita department has also been discussing a number of ideas including distributing pre-paid debit cards to reduce fraudulent check cashing, or the possibility of forming a credit union in the future.

Monica Miller says the overall goal of the per capita program is to ensure that members gain financial stability without relying on state assistance from the Department of Social and Health Services. "When we started the per capita program, it took many of our people off DSHS," Monica Miller said. "These payments are used by members to pay for groceries, utilities, transportation and mortgages on a monthly basis."

Today, members receive a distribution of $2,000 gross per month, with half of each child's payment distributed to parents or guardians in order to cover daily expenses. The other half is placed in a trust fund until the child turns 18, when they gain full access to the funds.

Lieutenant Governor Gives Archery Lessons

Thu, 10 May 2012 10:20:10 -0700

A number of seasoned archers and novices alike gathered May 5 at Chief Leschi High School to participate in a seminar to become certified archery instructors – taught by an esteemed guest. Lieutenant Governor Brad Owen, an avid archer since childhood, took time out from his busy schedule to lead the two-day course to certify Tribal members and non-members alike.

"This class is for people who have never picked up a bow and arrow to experienced hunters," Brad Owen said. "We're teaching people how to shoot, safety techniques and form."

Brad Owen has been involved in archery since he was about 8 years old, and recently became a third-level instructor for USA Archery. Saturday's course will ultimately help the Tribe expand opportunities for archery lessons in after-school programs as well as GREAT camps.

Considering the increasing interest in archery, thanks in large part to the success of the blockbuster film "Hunger Games," training additional instructors will be greatly appreciated, according to Youth Activities Coordinator Roslyn McCloud. She attended the course to become certified, in spite of her initial fears of archery. "Before this class, I was intimidated by the whole sport, but after a while it was so much fun," she said. "I'm so excited for classes to start that I wish they would begin tomorrow."

Archery classes will begin June 25 and take place Mondays and Wednesdays through Aug. 22.

Do-it-yourself dog wash makes this chore a joy

Thu, 10 May 2012 10:13:06 -0700

Puyallup Tribal member William Manzanares has set up a most convenient, inexpensive and effective self-serve dog washing system next door to his Northpoint Smoke Shop on River Road. Housed in its own neat and tidy little building, it's open 8 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. seven days a week and works like a do-it-yourself car wash but for dogs of any and all sizes.

Being self-service, customers can drive up and get right to work on scrubbing their pooch without having to make an appointment and without having to hand Fido over to be handled by a stranger. Cost is $10 for ten minutes, and you can use cash, credit/debit cards or purchase tokens from inside the smoke shop.

Everything is right there in one compact, coin-operated unit called the K9000, made in the USA and recognized as the top of the line self-serve dog wash system currently on the market. It's also the safest and easiest to use.

The "tub" side of the K9000 is waist-high to humans, with a side door that makes it simple to walk your dog into the tub rather than having to lift him/her up and in. On the right are two hand-held hoses – one that sprays heat-controlled water through a variety of nozzle settings and another that blows warm air for blow-drying. A control panel allows users to dial a selection of choices – shampoo, flea shampoo, rinse, conditioner, blow dry and to disinfect the tub afterward, which all users are kindly asked to do as a courtesy for the next customer.

"Everyone who uses it loves it," William Manzanares said, noting that in the wintertime customers appreciate the heated room when it's too cold to wash the dog outside. He said he got the idea to open the dog wash after seeing the K9000 unit on the "Modern Marvels" show on the History Channel.

A former pit bull owner, William Manzanares said he knows first-hand that it can be difficult to find a groomer that fits your dog, and also that it's oftentimes difficult to keep your dog clean without making a huge, watery mess in the bathroom. "I knew there had to be other dog owners out there who couldn't wash their dog outside or their dog just isn't right for a groomer." This led him to purchase the first K9000 in the state of Washington, and he's been impressed with its performance and reliability. His set-up is perfect for all kinds of occasions, such as when coming home with a wet and muddy dog from a day at the lake, for when company is coming and the four-footed family member needs a clean-up, or for simply keeping your dog fresh and clean throughout the year.

Northpoint Smoke Shop is located at 6408 River Rd. E. Parking is free and always available.

We’re Still Here: Exhibit in Olympia Tells Story of Local Tribal History

Thu, 10 May 2012 09:57:31 -0700

For the first time in Washington State history, a powerful new cultural exhibit about Native Americans is hanging in the Office of Secretary of State's front lobby. The exhibit, called "We're Still Here: The Survival of Washington Indians," launched April 24 in an event featuring Governor Chris Gregoire, Secretary of State Sam Reed, State Representative John McCoy, Nisqually tribal leader Billy Frank Jr., the Chehalis Canoe Family and Chief Leschi Schools' Drum and Dance group.

The Office of the Secretary of State's Heritage Center developed the exhibit, which features 12 panels and several artifacts acknowledging the early and continuing story of Native Americans. The exhibit is told through four major themes: the struggle over land, conflict over Native identity, the battle for fishing rights and the cultural revival of Indian customs and language today. Smart tags are placed over images included in the exhibit to allow visitors to view additional information online at the Heritage Center's website.

"I'm very proud of this exhibit," Secretary of State Sam Reed said. "The Office of Secretary of State in many ways serves as the historian for the state, because we are responsible for the archives of all state and local governments. It's very appropriate that the first people who lived in the state are featured in an exhibit in my office."

The exhibit was developed in partnership with a number of Native American advisors, including the Puyallup Tribe's Historic Preservation Department, which provided guidance on exhibit storylines and images. Nancy Shippentower-Games also narrated a video in the exhibit. She along with Puyallup tribal member Amber Hayward of the Puyallup Tribal Language Department, and Historic Preservation Department staff members Jennifer Keating Hallberg and Brandon Reynon attended the exhibit's opening in Olympia.

"It was great to see our tribal history honored and acknowledged by our state's legislators," said Historic Information Outreach Specialist Jennifer Keating Hallberg. "I am really hoping this exhibit gets both tribal and non-tribal governments thinking about making local tribal history a mandatory part of Washington state curriculum."

So far, a number of schools have toured the exhibit on field trips, and the overall reaction from the public has been positive. "We've heard from many Native Americans about how appreciative they are about having their story told here," Heritage Center Creative Director Trova Heffernan said. "We hope educators from around the state make use of the exhibit."

For more information, or to view the online exhibit, visit www.sos.wa.gov/heritage/werestillhere.

Native Pride Shows on TCC Campus

Thu, 10 May 2012 09:20:11 -0700

Native American pride was in full effect during the annual Tacoma Community College Pow Wow on April 28.

One of the organizers of the event is Martha Sherman, an employee of Tacoma Public Schools' Indian Education Program. She has been organizing pow wows for 15 years and got involved with this one six years ago to assist with all the logistics involved with staging a successful event.

Many of the Tacoma high school students involved in the program participate in this pow wow in some capacity. They help vendors set up, run the children's activities table, cook Indian tacos and other duties.

"They get a chance to meet other youth groups," Martha Sherman said. "Each year it gets bigger and bigger with the kids."

Some of the teens dance. Some are experienced with pow wows, while others are a bit shy. Some have the traditional regalia while others do not.

Some very young children, a few barely old enough to walk, were out dancing. "That is how powerful that drum is," Martha Sherman observed.

The parent committee of the Indian Education Program is also active in organizing the event. Martha Sherman said they work closely with TCC staff and student clubs such as the Native American Student Union and Student Life. Puyallup Tribe of Indians was a sponsor for the event.

Some pow wows are of a competitive nature. Martha Sherman noted that this one is not. "This is an opportunity for the community to come in and find out what a pow wow is," she said.

Among the vendors set up in a covered area outside the student center was Margaret Nation of Chief Seattle Club, an organization in Seattle. It serves urban Native Americans. Margaret Nation was selling earrings and made several while at her booth that day.

"I am also here to promote the club," she remarked. Margaret Nation and other representatives of Chief Seattle Club attend many pow wows. She noted they were at one the previous weekend at the University of Washington. The club has an art department and members make a variety of objects that are sold at events. The artists get to keep 70 percent of proceeds from sales, with the remainder going back to the club to fund the art department.

Electronic Health Record Brings Exciting Benefits to PTHA

Thu, 10 May 2012 09:04:45 -0700

PTHA is excited to be taking the huge step of going live with the electronic health record in Medical, Pediatrics and Community Health starting this month!

During to go-live, PTHA is limiting appointments and could expect longer wait times for walk-ins, as the providers get used to the new system. PTHA is excited about the benefits this will bring to patients, including:

Improved security

Convenience for patients and providers

Improved quality of care

Better documentation

Reduction of cost

We appreciate your patience with PTHA staff as we travel on this journey together toward an electronic health care system.

Staff Spotlight: Tina Carron, Pharmacy Technician

Thu, 10 May 2012 09:00:43 -0700

Puyallup Tribal Health Authority Pharmacy Technician Tina Carron has always enjoyed helping people, so a career in the medical field was an easy decision for her. And after having accessed healthcare at PTHA during her growing up years, working in the pharmacy there means a great deal to her personally. "Being Native American, I've always wanted to work there and serve the community," she said.

Tina Carron, a member of the Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde in Oregon, especially appreciates the relationships she has been able to build with patients and staff alike during her two years at PTHA. "It's great to get to know people personally and work in such a family oriented environment, which is something you don't always get in a retail pharmacy," she said. "I love the staff here and my supervisor, Ruby, is wonderful."

Even in high school Tina Carron was actively involved in her community and the medical field. She volunteered regularly as a candy striper, and remains active in her community to this day. Tina Carron regularly participates in a number of community events, serves on the PTHA activities committee and is enrolled in the PTHA's Wellness Challenge program.

She has also been involved in lending her feedback on the design of the new wing of the PTHA. "There are so many exciting changes going on here, and it's been great to be involved in the design process," she said.

Tina Carron grew up in Puyallup and currently lives in Graham with her husband of 15 years, Joe, and son Sebastian, 11.

When she's not running carpool, attending PTA meetings and events, or working hard in the PTHA pharmacy, Tina Carron enjoys spending time and traveling with her family. "Taking care of the family is my life," she said.

Creedence Clearwater Revisited Brings the Hits to the Queen

Thu, 10 May 2012 08:58:47 -0700

During the psychedelic 60s, music emanating from its epicenter of San Francisco was all about free expression and experimental songwriting that produced tunes as long as the band wanted them to be (for instance, psychedelic icons Iron Butterfly's "In-A-Gadda-Da-Vida" clocked in at 17 minutes, taking up the entire second side of the album that bore the song's name).

When Creedence Clearwater Revival came along, things got shaken up a bit. Going against the grain of the era's acid-laced trends, CCR won a loyal worldwide following with their rebellious, sometimes militant "swamp rock," as it has been described. Radio embraced the catchy songs that lasted an average of three minutes – perfect for airplay – and CCR's huge popularity yielded them numerous gold and multi-platinum singles and albums.

Today, the classic music of CCR lives on through Creedence Clearwater Revisited, scheduled to perform at the Emerald Queen Casino on May 25 at 8:30 p.m. Comprised of two original members, who founded the band in 1995, and three more outstanding players, the new CCR unfailingly packs the house with fans from back in the day all the way up to a whole new breed of young Creedence devotees.

Any fan of contemporary music knows a CCR tune – "Fortunate Son," "Down On the Corner," "Susie Q," "Who'll Stop the Rain," "Bad Moon Rising" and so many more. These hits and more are played at every Revisited concert, proving the power of CCR songs that have endured for nearly 50 years.

Drummer Doug "Cosmo" Clifford and bassist Stu Cook launched Creedence Clearwater Revisited due to having missed playing the CCR songs they had once played at Woodstock and beyond. This Rock and Roll Hall of Fame rhythm section added John "Bulldog" Tristao (lead vocals, rhythm guitar), Steve Gunner (keyboards, acoustic guitar, harmonica, percussion, vocals) and Kurt Griffey (lead guitar) to form the Revisited incarnation. As fans who have experienced a Creedence Clearwater Revisited concert can attest, Clifford and Cook certainly found the right players. Tristao, a powerful tenor with the energy to power songs, initially rose to prominence as lead singer for the band People when their hit "I Love You" bulleted into the top 10. Griffey is the newest touring member of the band. As a guitarist, songwriter, producer and performer, Griffey has recorded and toured with musicians including members of the Eagles, Foreigner, Moody Blues, Wings, Lynyrd Skynryd, Santana and Journey. Talented multi-instrumentalist Gunner rounds out the group.

Initially, Clifford and Cook planned for the band to play only private parties. "We never really had any intention of playing for the public," said Cook. "But a friend wanted to promote a couple of concerts. We got talked into it, but didn't know how it would go over." It went over very well. These days Creedence Clearwater Revisited performs up to 100 shows a year throughout North America, South America, New Zealand, Europe and Asia.

After Creedence Clearwater Revival disbanded in 1972, Cook and Clifford - who have played together since junior high - remained close. They formed a production company together before heading off for separate musical projects, Clifford playing with the renowned Sir Douglas Quintet and Cook joining with a few former Doobie Brothers in the pioneering country-rock band Southern Pacific. When those projects ended, Clifford and Cook hooked up again. Realizing both missed playing live Creedence music that had been lying dormant, they decided to put together their own band to perform the songs in concert.

In 1998 the band released the two-disc live album "Recollection," the first recordings of Creedence Clearwater Revival music released in more than 20 years by any of the legendary group's former members. In 2006 they released another live collection, "The Best of Creedence Clearwater Revisited (20th Century Masters – The Millennium Collection)."

For tickets to the May 25 show at Emerald Queen Casino, visit www.emeraldqueen.com.

Daffodil Parade 2012

Thu, 26 Apr 2012 09:28:54 -0700

The 79th Daffodil Festival Grand Floral Street Parade brought people out from around the region April 14 to see all things daffodil and community pride, courtesy of flower-decked floats and school groups, including students from Chief Leschi who handed out flowers.

Science Club visits OMSI

Thu, 26 Apr 2012 09:05:52 -0700

The Chief Leschi Science Club took a wonderful trip to Portland, Oregon on Jan. 14. We went to OMSI, the Oregon Museum of Science and Technology. It is similar to Seattle's Pacific Science Center. After a 6:30 a.m. start, students caught up on their sleep on the bus and were ready for the busy day as we off-loaded at 9 a.m. There was an official waiting at the curb and they directed us to our first exhibit and provided us with the tickets we would need for the day to attend different attractions. The first stop was the world traveling Human Works exhibit. This incredible presentation has plastic treated cadavers and internal organs displayed for study and examination. The brain and spinal cord were emphasized. The bodies are positioned realistically; some were even placed in athletic poses. It was amazing. Everyone loved it but a few kids thought it was a bit creepy at first, but after awhile they said they didn't think of it that way anymore. At the end of the exhibit there was a full-sized giraffe on display. The skin was gone and all the muscles were colored and easy to identify. Most students thought this was the highlight of the tour. It was AWESOME! 

The students were then given a chance to visit the open hands-on area. This includes science puzzles, manipulatives, computer simulations, and teaching/learning stations. One hour later it was time for lunch and we marched to a huge lunchroom for those who brought their own food. There was also a cafeteria in another area for those that couldn't live without a hamburger and fries. 

Following lunch, we headed to a documentary film in the IMAX theater. The topic was Tornado Alley and followed the science teams that study and chase tornadoes to help understand them and make it safer for those that live in tornado country. It was actually a little scary as one team actually succeeded in having a tornado pass directly over them. The recording was just a little too violent but very exciting.

 Our final stop was the planetarium and it was refreshingly subdued. The film we saw was a tour of the solar system and then a look at the greater universe we live in. The door out of the planetarium led directly to the bus and by 6:15 p.m. we were in the Chief Leschi parking lot with parents waiting. Mr. Tom Rhodes, Ms. Okcha Pak, Ms. Woolley, and Mr. Richard Gamas were the advisors that made the trip possible.

Culinary Team takes 8th out of 22 teams at State

Thu, 26 Apr 2012 09:03:31 -0700

Chief Leschi Culinary team impressed the judges this year at the Prostart Invitational in Olympia March 3. This group of sophomores, Raven Williams, Malik Johnson, Hailee Barker, Kayla Skiles and Mike Ebert prepared an ambitious menu of Smoked Salmon Chowder, Chicken Roulade, Layered Pesto Rice, and Maple Crème Brule, all within one hour and two butane burners.

The judges especially commented on their energy, team work and organizational skills.

The team would like to thank all those who donated to much time to the team: the school for their financial and moral support ( too many to name here), Harold Dodd, our mentor chef from Seattle, Mr. Begay who supplied the delicious smoked salmon, and the parents, who's encouragement meant so much to their students. We had one of the biggest support sections there!

Great job Warrior Math Team!

Thu, 26 Apr 2012 09:00:47 -0700

The recently Math Team competed in a state math competition. There are several sections to the competition. On one section of the competition, Toby Joseph and Tim Czapiewski competed with two other students from a different school. They took 2nd for their ad hoc division! WOW!! 

Special thanks goes out to Judy Hills for brining this completion to our school and to the math team coaches: Judy, Sarah and Davina. The team had extra support from Berta Lopez and Josh Kelso. 

Much gratitude goes out to all who made this happen for our students!! 

PTHA Goes Live with Electronic Health Records!

Thu, 26 Apr 2012 08:46:08 -0700

Puyallup Tribal Health Authority is excited to announce that they will Go-Live with the new Electronic Health Record (EHR) system starting in May!

While implementing EHR, staff is dedicating themselves to the delivery of safe, coordinated, patient-focused electronic health care that will be more efficient and convenient for patients.

During the Go-Live, there will be limited amount of appointments available and potentially longer wait times for walk-ins. Those patients with previously scheduled appointments could possibly experience slight delays as Providers learn and adjust to the new system. PTHA thanks you for your patience while traveling on this exciting journey together toward an improved electronic health care system.

May is Mental Health Month

Thu, 26 Apr 2012 08:45:36 -0700

PTHA is committed to raising awareness of mental health conditions and mental wellness for all through patient education and outreach.

Warning Signs of Suicide

Suicide can be prevented. While some suicides occur without any outward warning, most people who are suicidal do give warnings. Prevent the suicide of loved ones by learning to recognize the signs of someone at risk, taking those signs seriously and knowing how to respond to them.

Warning signs of suicide include:

Observable signs of serious depression: – Unrelenting low mood

Pessimism

Hopelessness

Desperation

Anxiety, psychic pain and inner tension – Withdrawal

Sleep problems

Increased alcohol and/or other drug use

Recent impulsiveness and taking unnecessary risks

Threatening suicide or expressing a strong wish to die

Making a plan:

Giving away prized possessions

Sudden or impulsive purchase of a firearm

Obtaining other means of killing oneself such as poisons or medications

Unexpected rage or anger

The emotional crises that usually precede suicide are often recognizable and treatable. Although most depressed people are not suicidal, most suicidal people are depressed.

If you or someone you know is in an emotional distress or suicidal crisis, please call the Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255). If you or someone you know suffers from depression, PTHA counselors can help. Call 593-0247.

Source: American Foundation for Suicide Prevention

March Wellness Challenge Winners

Thu, 26 Apr 2012 08:41:58 -0700

Winners for the March Wellness Challenge

Adult, Most Points: Joella Graves continues to work very hard on her personal Wellness Challenge. In March she bicycled 434.88 miles, completed 840 minutes of rowing and walked 10-plus miles. And much, much more! Keep on inspiring us Joella!

Adult, Random Drawing: Kat Hannah is working on weight loss and succeeding!

Youth, Most Points: Sebastian Carron is working on increasing flexibility and height in kicks for TaekWonDo and he is trying to get outside more.

Youth, Random Drawing: Jodi Campbell. Jodi's goal this month? To be Sugar-Free!

What are the Wellness Challenge Participants saying?

Drinking more water, eating more often, exercising twice a day

Got more exercise, started fitness training

Continue to work towards more exercise

Worked out for an hour each day, didn't watch too much TV

Started walking three days a week, cut down on portions. Tracking my foods with a phone app.

Lost two more pounds!

Lost more inches and more pounds

Earned the Presidential Lifestyle Award

Completed the Cycle University Workshop in hill climbing and descent techniques

Remaining alcohol-free

Less caffeine

Walking three times per week

Working hard to cook dinner with more vegetables, eat dinner earlier and take a short walk after dinner and less TV.

Lost weight, cutting down on energy drinks

Got my teeth cleaned, attended cooking class and smoking cessation support group

Working as a volunteer

Working on yoga, stretching and walking

Eating breakfast within 1 hour of waking up and eating a balanced "My Plate"

Working on weight loss and quitting smoking

My barrier is always stress; it gets the better of me

Exercising more

Walking more, less sodas, less fast food-it's when you're on the got. I started packing snacks, fruit, veggies, cheese & crackers, peanut butter sandwich-this really helped!

Taking a multi-vitamin every day and drinking more water

It's not too late to sign-up for the Wellness Challenge! Ask your PTHA provider how to register and you can experience the benefits!

Tribe awards $35,000 to the Greater Metro Parks Foundation

Thu, 26 Apr 2012 08:33:44 -0700

Metro Parks Tacoma Youth Sports received $35,000 from the Puyallup Tribe Charity Trust Board, thanks to a grant submitted by the Greater Metro Parks Foundation. The funding will provide much needed sports equipment and financial aid scholarships, sustaining Metro Parks' services that may have otherwise been scaled back.

More than 5,000 local youth ages 4 to 18 participate in Metro Parks' Youth Sports program, receiving quality recreation experiences, in basketball, baseball, soccer, ultimate frisbee, and football. These children are not only learning how to play a sport, but are also building character in a fun and safe environment. The Youth Sports program provides an ideal forum to teach and model valuable and fundamental ethics that can help young people become well-balanced adults who can lead productive lives in our community.

Participating in Metro Parks' Youth Sports programs combats childhood obesity and encourages healthy living by increasing physical activity. While the health benefits of sports are widely acknowledged, children reap many other benefits from this program, such as team building, sportsmanship, self-confidence, and self-discipline. These skills have demonstrably translated to other activities and commitments, both in school and at home.

Ensuring affordable and accessible Youth Sport services is a priority for the Greater Metro Parks Foundation and Metro Parks Tacoma. Reasonable class prices and financial aid scholarships, provided in part through Foundation fundraising activities, have provided opportunities for children across the district to grow in body and mind. This grant is vital to Metro Parks' ability to sustain these affordable programs in the wake of declining property tax revenues and funding reductions from the City. The Puyallup Tribe of Indian's grant helps offset diminishing funds, helping stabilize Youth Sports opportunities throughout the City of Tacoma.

If you are interested in learning more about the Youth Sports program or enrolling your child, please contact Metro Parks Tacoma program coordinator Roy Fletcher at (253) 305-1025 or Donations for the Youth Sports program are always welcome at the Greater Metro Parks Foundation through www.metroparksfoundation.org/donation.php or at (253) 305-1066.

I-5 work to span the next decade

Thu, 26 Apr 2012 08:31:12 -0700

All of the 188,000 drivers who use Interstate 5 as it runs through Tacoma have watched lanes expand and new ramps take shape during the last decade. Well, they are in luck. Work will continue through 2022. And they can still rest assured that their commute times will be just as long well into the future.

After all is built and $1.6 billion is spent on ramps, bridges and new lanes, traffic congestion will not really improve.

"We kind of maintain the status quo," said Claudia Bingham Baker, high-occupancy vehicle (HOV) communications manager for Washington State Department of Transportation, noting that not doing any work as the area's population continues to grow would have been worse. "If we did nothing at all, we would have a parking lot in Tacoma."

New lanes and ramp configurations have been piecing together along I-5 since the 1990s with an emphasis on HOV lanes radiating southward from Seattle. Those lanes have now reached Pierce County's stretch of the highway into Fife between Port of Tacoma Road and the county border.

The current roster of work will incrementally extend those lanes southward as well as reconfigure the I-5 to State Route 16 connection.

"These are all monster projects," Bingham Baker said. "There is going to be a lot of construction around Tacoma for about the next six years."

The next HOV work will extend the commuter lanes from Port of Tacoma Road southward to Portland Avenue. The work there will largely set the groundwork for a bridge-replacement shuffle to replace the two bridges over the Puyallup River with a single, widened structure to accommodate the additional lanes set to flow through the valley.

Drivers should not get used to a single bridge, however, since the new bridge will only handle northbound and southbound traffic while another bridge is being built. Once that work is done, the lanes will split again and use both bridges, one widened span for each direction that will allow for commuter lanes, a straighter drive through Fife and easier connections to SR 167 in Federal Way. Expect cranes and construction trucks along that route for another three years.

The next stretch of work will run from Portland Avenue to South 'M' Street. This project will widen northbound and southbound I-5 to four general-purpose lanes and one additional HOV lane in each direction. While the work might seem simple at a glance, contractors will have to replace the Pacific Avenue, McKinley Avenue and South 'L' Street bridges over I-5, and the northbound I-5 bridge over the I-705 interchange. That roster of bridge work has its own roster of temporary lane changes and ramp routings. The specifics on the work are still unknown since the project is being designed. Those plans are set to be ready in 2013. Work will take about three years.

Meanwhile, crews have been working on changes at the I-5 interchange with State Route 16 at Nalley Valley. The westbound ramp is already open for drivers. Next comes the eastbound lanes and then the commuter ramps and connections, but those will not be open until 2023. Drivers can expect a safer, more fluid flow through that web of ramps once it is all done.

But until then, drivers can enjoy the view of dirt piles and cranes as they white-knuckle their way to work.