Page 2 - Chehalis Tribal Newsletter - October, 2018

2

ELDERS

Oahu welcomes tribal members

More than five dozen Chehalis elders
converge at beautiful island getaway

During mid-October, surfing, snorkeling,
more than 60 Chehalis parasailing and more.
tribal elders enjoyed sun- Some took a sea cruse to
soaked Waikiki Beach on get a different view of the
the Hawaiian island of island, whereas others
Oahu. chose to relax by the pool
After settling into their and catch up with friends.
hotel rooms, elders quickly One place numerous
started making the most of elders enjoyed visiting was
the tropical paradise. They a swap meet with more
marveled at spectacular than 500 vendors. They
scenery and awe-inspiring had a variety of products all
sunsets during their week reasonably priced. It served
on the island. For some, it as a good place to purchase
was the first trip to Hawaii. keepsakes or items for
Elders had a hearty loved ones.
selection of activities This vacation was a
to choose from on land unique opportunity to
and in the water. They create lasting memories
went shopping, enjoyed on a tropical island. Many
local food and hiked elders shared their stories
breathtaking tourist spots. and photos with each other
Many elders spent time and family members when Elders enjoy a week away from home as they vacation with friends, family and
on the beautiful beaches they returned home. follow tribal members in the tropical paradise of Hawaii.

Weaving tradition

A group of 11 elders gathered on Oct. 2 at the
Elders Center for a basket-weaving class taught
by Chehalis tribal member Gabe Higheagle. For
some, this was their first time making a cedar
basket. The tradition is carried on from Native
American ancestors of the coastal Salish region.
Higheagle is patient when teaching others and
helps them work at their own pace.
Chehalis Tribal Elder Allen Bush, who
recently moved up to the Pacific Northwest
from California, was among those trying his
hand at basket weaving. Bush has attended
Gabe many tribal events and cultural classes to
Higheagle “It was an engage with his fellow Chehalis people.
takes time “It was an awesome class. I would take
to teach his awesome class. another one of these classes in a heartbeat,”
Chehalis Bush said.
tribal elders I would take He also thanked and praised Higheagle for
a few tricks another one his masterful teaching skills. By the end of the
during cedar class, participants had a beautifully finished
basket- of these classes basket to bring home. Some elders shared that
weaving class. they would gift the baskets to a loved one.
at the Elders in a heartbeat.” Congratulations Allen Bush, Dennis Cayenne
Center. and Joyleen McCrory for completing your first
– ALLEN BUSH basket! A huge thanks goes to instructor Gabe
Higheagle for your time and commitment.