The Olympian

Harry Pickernell Sr. has been named the new chairman of the Chehalis Tribe, the tribe announced Thursday.

Pickernell, a former vice chairman, replaces Don Secena, who resigned earlier this month because of health reasons. Pickernell will complete Secena’s remaining term that ends in November 2018.

“I understand the tribe has a responsibility to its members as well as being a good neighbor to the surrounding community,” Pickernell said in a statement.

Pickernell was previously a water quality specialist for the tribe’s natural resources department. He’s a recent graduate of The Evergreen State College.

Pickernell takes over at a time when the tribe is celebrating the 22nd anniversary of Lucky Eagle Casino. The tribe is also involved in flood control and restoring fishery in the Chehalis Basin.