By Shaun Scott, Puyallup Tribal News
The optimism of spring permeated the atmosphere at the monthly Elders Luncheon on March 21 at the House of Respect.
Staff members served up grilled salmon, roasted chicken breast, chicken cordon bleu, mashed red potatoes, green beans, wheat rolls, green salad and a fresh berry platter. Key lime pies were made available as well for dessert for the Elders on the second day of spring.
Puyallup Tribal Member Dan Sandstrom gave the blessing and prayer before lunch was served. Sandstrom knows the importance of the spring season to the Elders.
“Giving the blessing, it is an honor to be able to do that for our Elders. I pray for the food and for the good health of our Elders,” Sandstrom said. “Spring is here and it gives them a chance to do things they haven’t been able to do.”
March’s Honored Elder was Winnifred Enick. Enick was blanketed by Puyallup Tribal Councilwoman Monica Miller and Elder Wellness Center Executive Director Vernetta Miller. Enick was born in Omak and currently lives in Tacoma. Close to 15 members of Enick’s family attended the celebration, including several grandchildren, cousins and nieces.
Lakewood musician Cameron Villanueva provided the entertainment playing accordion and singing.
“I only speak English but I can sing different songs in over 24 languages. It is awesome to be here. I didn’t expect it (crowd) to be this huge. This is a big crowd and I love a big crowd,” Villanueva said.
Chairman Bill Sterud, Councilman James Rideout, Councilwoman Miller and Councilman Fred Dillon distributed cash prizes to lucky Tribal Members via the monthly raffle. Vernetta Miller concluded the event with the announcement that smoked salmon, fresh crab and razor clams would be available for free to Elders on their way out.
