MUCKLESHOOT MESSENGER

January 2026

Vol. XXVII, No. 1
Muckleshoot indian reservation, wash.
January 2026
From the Front Page

Smoke & Cedar Named No. 1 Best Casino Steakhouse

Smoke & Cedar at Muckleshoot Casino Resort has been named the No. 1 best casino steakhouse in the 2026 Newsweek Readers’ Choice Polls, earning national recognitionfrom diners across the country.

Located on the 19th floor of the resort, Smoke & Cedar is known for its Pacific Northwest focused menu.

“Winning the best casino steakhouse award is an incredible honor for Smoke & Cedar. Our team takes pride in crafting an unforgettable dining experience pairing locally sourced ingredients premium meats and seafood and exceptional service with the breathtaking views of Mount Rainier. This recognition reflects our commitment to excellence and our passion for creating a destination where every guest feels truly special. Most importantly, it honors the strength of our Tribal heritage and the dedication of our people, reminding us that every achievement is rooted in our traditions and community.”

— Junior Maldonado, Chief Operating Officer

The 2026 recognition builds on recent praises for Smoke & Cedar. The restaurant was named best steakhouse in 2024 and best fine dining in 2025 in The Seattle Times Best in the Pacific Northwest People’s Choice Awards, reflecting continued excellence and consistency from the culinary and service teams.

Smoke & Cedar’s success also contributes to the community. Revenue from the resort supports Tribal programs like education, health care, housing and cultural preservation while helping fund regional philanthropic efforts from schools to first responders and local nonprofits. Dinner at Smoke & Cedar is not just a night out. It is part of how the Tribe uplifts the community and sustains a legacy of giving back.

More from This Edition

Vol. XXVII, No. 1

January 2026

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The Muckleshoot Tribal School Kings Attends the WIAA Tournament

The Muckleshoot Tribal School King Boys basketball team made the trip to Spokane for the WIAA tournament to represent our community.

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March 2026
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Muckleshoot Invests in the Protection of Native Children

On February 17, the Muckleshoot Tribal Council gathered in chambers to present a 100,000-dollar donation to the National Indian Child Welfare Association.

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March 2026
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Muckleshoot Opens Washington Legislative Session with Prayer and Presentation of Colors

On March 9, 2026 the Washington State House of Representatives opened the legislative session with a moment of prayer and recognition led by representatives of the Muckleshoot Indian Tribe.

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February 2026
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Blue Friday at Muckleshoot

The last few Fridays of the season brought Muckleshoot employees out dressed in their best Seahawks gear for a group photo to show that the 12’s spirit runs deep.

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About the Muckleshoot Messenger

The Muckleshoot Messenger is a monthly Tribal publication. Tribal community members and Tribal employees are welcome to submit items to the newspaper such as announcements, birth news, birthday shoutouts, community highlights, and more. We want to hear from you!


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