By John Sallee
Manager, Shareholder and Descendant Communications
Hey, nieces and nephews, Shareholders and Descendants, and everyone in between—gather ’round, ’cause the Fun Uncle’s got the Village Vibes (and by “vibes,” I mean “potato salad”). Sept. 25 and 26 were the days to be in Tyonek, where the mood was earthy, the laughter contagious and the carbs plentiful (R.I.P. summer body).
The Tyonek Tribal Conservation District, Tebughna School and the Tyonek community threw down at the annual Potato Harvest, and it was spudtacular. Over just two days, nearly 1,100 pounds of potatoes were dug up. That’s right, enough to gift every household in Tyonek 20 pounds of golden goodness. “You get potatoes! You get potatoes! Everyone gets potatoes!”
Now, if you haven’t heard about the Tyonek Farm and Garden, let me tell you, this place is thriving. It’s not just a garden; it’s basically Tyonek’s version of the Mona Lisa, but instead of an oil canvas in the Louvre, it’s Carhartts, Xtratufs and dirt under your fingernails. This one-and-a-half-acre wonder grows more than 25 types of crops across 10,000 square feet, all powered by the sun, drip irrigation and good old-fashioned community spirit.
This year, the garden got even cooler when an educational yurt was built. Because why stop at potatoes when you can teach in style? Between the community garden beds, weekly farmers markets, and events like the Garden Blessing and Harvest Party, the garden has become the hangout spot—a place where folks commune with the land, reconnect with culture and maybe score a few extra veggies on the side.
So, here’s to Tyonek—where the soil is rich, the community riche, and the potatoes? They’re legendary. Until next time, stay rooted, and keep your vibes village-strong.
