TULALIP – Hundreds of people attended the grand opening of the Alpheus “Gunny” Jones Slow-Pitch Softball Field and Debra Barto Memorial Skate Park in Tulalip April 15.

Participants were treated to music and activities, including skate clinics and demonstrations by local pros at the new park. Competitions took place in three age categories with prizes for first-through-third place in each.

At the new synthetic grass fields, people played flag football, t-ball, soccer, kickball, tug-of-war and more. For younger kids there were some bouncy houses and face painting.

A free barbecue included ribs, chicken, salads, fruit and more. Young children gave the blessing and also played drums and sang.

T-shirts made especially for the event also were given away.

Tulalip Tribe Chairman Mel Sheldon praised the skateboarders.

“You guys are phenomenal. Hats off to you,” he said, adding the last time he was on a skateboard was 1963.

Regarding the ballfield, Sheldon remembered when “baseball was king. That’s how tribes got to know each other.”

He said nowadays basketball seems to be more popular with the tribes. Nevertheless, Sheldon thanked those involved who supported building the ballfield.

“Dreams really do become reality,” he said.

JJ Frank, executive director of the Marysville YMCA, thanked the tribes for their support.

“Marysville YMCA would not be built if not for the Tulalip Tribes,” he said.

Executive Director Bill Tsoukalas of the Snohomish County Boys and Girls Clubs also talked of its long partnership with the Tulalip Tribes. When the club started there in 1997, is was the sixth such tribal one in the nation. Now there are some 200 in the U.S.

Tsoukalas said the tribal board of directors provides for its youth.

“Young people have lots of choices” of things to do, he said.

Tribal board member Theresa Sheldon said everyone should be proud of the fields and skate park.

“They are first class out there,” she said.

She added that she is impressed with how well the young people are showing respect toward one another.

“I raise my hands to you,” she said.

She also encouraged them to wear helmets.

“Don’t be afraid to protect your heads – you need your brains,” she said.