2023 August CUJ

The monthly newspaper of the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation

CTUIR water project slated for federal funds

WASHINGTON – The Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation will soon benefit from investments secured by Sen. Jeff Merkley, Chair of the Senate Interior Appropriations Subcommittee, and Sen. Ron Wyden.

Second annual Lamprey Celebration a hit

NIKA BARTOO-SMITH

OREGON CITY, Ore. – On a hot July day, Umatilla youth scrambled over the rocks at the base of Willamette Falls. There was thick moss, dry and scratchy like a Brillo pad, the smell of fish heavy in the air, and the sound of laughter carrying across the roar of the water as the kids harvested Pacific lamprey at the falls.

That there even was a harvest underscored work the Umatilla and other tribes have led to restore the

eel-like fish’s population.

“This work we’re doing, it’s not for us,” Umatilla board member Corinne Sams said to the group of children circled around her. “It’s for your grandchildren, your great-grandchildren.”

Sams led the youth in song, honoring the lampreys’ gift of their lives, before the group began to search the base of the falls for pockets of lamprey to harvest.

A crew harvested approximately 200 lamprey in the morning before

LAMPREY CONTINUED PAGE 10

Merkley and Wyden secured investments for 22 community-initiated projects in an Interior spending bill, including $3 million for the CTUIR to install a wastewater treatment plant that will produce recycled water for non-potable uses. This localized treatment facility will produce water for irrigation needs, reducing the amount of groundwater that needs to be drawn from the community’s aquifers.

“The Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation are extremely grateful to Senators Merkley and Wyden for their support of this important water quality project. Increasing the water treatment capacity for the Umatilla Indian Reservation and Umatilla County will allow both to grow, expand housing opportunities and to do so in an ecologically renewable manner,” said Kat Brigham, CTUIR Board of Trustees Chair.

Another $2 million was included for the Wallowa Lake Irrigation District to continue its work with partners to create safe passage for fish listed under the Endangered Species Act. Funding will also be

FUNDS CONTINUED PAGE 12

Reservation burn ban continues

JAMES HALL CTUIR Fire Chief

PENDLETON, Ore. – Open burning, including trash in burning barrels and yard debris, continues to be prohibited on the Umatilla Indian Reservation.

Sweathouse and ceremonial fires are exempt from the ban, however, a verbal burn permit must be obtained from the Umatilla Tribal Dispatch at 541-278-0550. Burning

permission will be dependent on firefighting resource availability and current weather conditions.

The burn ban will lift when Umatilla Tribal Fire Department deems conditions appropriate.

The Office of Air Quality is responsible for burn permits and determination of burning activities. If you need additional information regarding air quality, or agricultural or other types of burning, call (541) 429-7080.

Underscore News + ICT

Cynthia Esporito cleans a freshly caught lamprey during this year’s Lamprey Celebration at Willamette Falls. PHOTO BY LEE GAVIN

STAFF REPORT

CUJ

ABOUT THE CUJ

The Confederated Umatilla Journal (CUJ) was created in 1975 as the official publication of the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation (CTUIR), which includes the Cayuse, Umatilla and Walla Walla people. The CUJ is produced monthly by the CTUIR’s Communications Department.

Publisher: Kaeleen McGuire kaeleenmcguire@ctuir.org

Editor: Lisa Hicks Snell lisasnell@ctuir.org

Advertising: M. Moses-Conner monecemoses@ctuir.org

Contributing Photographers: Dallas Dick dallasdick@ctuir.org

Lee Gavin leegavin@ctuir.org

CONTACT US

Confederated Umatilla Journal 46411 Timine Way Pendleton, OR 97801 Email: CUJ@ctuir.org

Phone: 541-429-7005

Fax: 541-429-7005

SUBSCRIBE

The CUJ is free to pick up at tribal entities and some area businesses. However, a mailed subscription can be purchased for the price of shipping and handling by contacting the CTUIR Finance Department. Call 541-429-7150 or by visiting the Finance Department at Nixyaawii Governance Center, 46411 Timine Way, Pendleton.

One year: $15 • Two years: $28

The CUJ prints on the first Thursday of each month.

EMAIL LETTERS TO THE EDITOR TO: CUJeditor@ctuir.org

•Limit to 300 words or less

•Information found to be inaccurate/libelous will not be published.

•Letters containing profanity will not be published.

•One letter per issue will be published. Campaigning is not allowed.

•Author’s full name, address and phone number must be listed for verification purposes.

Clinic announces expansion plans

MISSION, Ore. – Yellowhawk Tribal Health Center announced July 21 its plan to expand and improve the clinic’s facilities. The expansion will accommodate increasing clinic services, staff and patients.

“Yellowhawk continues to deliver the quality healthcare and resources our community deserves – upgrading and expanding our building will be beneficial to patients, as well as staff,” said Aaron Hines, Yellowhawk CEO.

According to Hines, Yellowhawk has gained more than 40 employees since opening their current space in 2018 and the clinic continues to add to its team and increase services.

“We have rapidly outgrown our functional footprint and have been working diligently to be creative, strategic and flexible with our limited space. The expansion is crucial for the well-being of patients, staff and the growth of services,” Hines said.

The plans enlarge the medical wing by adding extra space for exam rooms which will increase both the number of available appointments and services offered. An added storage wing will allow for spaces currently being used as storage to be repurposed to their original function, such as office space or talking rooms. Another much anticipated addition will be a dedicated Elders entrance. This new entrance will be located at the back of the clinic with improved parking to allow Elders easier, faster access to the medical department.

“We are committed to improving

improve access for our Elders is a priority of the Health Commission and Management Team,” said Hines. In addition to expanding the facility, Yellowhawk is moving forward in partnership with Interpath Laboratory and Spright, the drone division of Air Methods, to launch a first-of-itskind drone delivery network that can transfer lab specimens. The proposed

cessing throughout the day, providing not only faster service, but a greener solution of transport by replacing the traditional courier service.

“We look forward to these improvements that will add value to our community,” said Shana Alexander, Medical Administrator.

Construction on the expansion specific date was not available at press

Yellowhawk Tribal Health Center has announced plans for expansion. PHOTO COURTESY YELLOWHAWK TRIBAL HEALTH CENTER

Speed zone changes affect rez traffic

STAFF REPORT

PENDLETON, Ore. – Travelers using Highway 331 on the reservation need to be aware of recent speed zone changes implemented by the Oregon Department of Transportation.

“I feel it is important for CTUIR residents and employees to know that there have been some speed zone modifications made by ODOT on Highway 331, south of Mission Road to I-84,” said Tony Barnett, Umatilla Tribal Police’s Lead Criminal Investigator.

Barnett cautions drivers to be aware that Mission Road south to Milepost 3 (shortly before the crest of the hill) is now 40 mph.

Between Milepost 3 and Wildhorse Blvd the zone changes to a 50 mph zone.

Between Wildhorse Blvd and the I-84 interchange the zone has been reduced to 35 mph. This 35 mph zone continues south past Wildhorse Resort & Casino and the travel plaza and over the I-84 interchange. Once past the interchange, the speed limit increases to 55 mph southbound on South Market Road.

North of Mission Road remains

Resolution marks housing progress

STAFF REPORT

CTUIR Economic and Community Development Department

MISSION, Ore. – Housing. Housing. Housing. Few things are of greater concern for the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation’s citizenship, staff, and Board of Trustees – as well as the region and state.

Tribal leadership has been intently focused on housing the past few years, which has resulted in the redevelopment Lucky 7, the construction of Timíne Way North Apartments and Nixyáawii Neighborhood. Next steps in those projects are to finalize required documentation for the apartments for people interested in moving in, and the construction of individual homes at Nixyáawii. Both efforts are moving forward, and it should not be long before individuals may start constructing their own homes – a long time goal of the tribe and tribal citizenry.

However, these projects do not fulfill all the housing needs the CTUIR faces and on July 25, the BOT authorized a resolution to address housing options for special populations - such as elders and veterans, and those with long term medical care needs.

The resolution created a staff team to include representatives from Economic and Community Development, Finance, Public Works, Planning, Child and Family Ser-

vices, Housing and Yellowhawk to spearhead the next round of housing projects. This Housing Strategy Team is a subcommittee of the Tribes Capital Improvement’s Committee which guides large construction projects.

“Housing is vital to a successful and prosperous nation. The eco-

Projects will include a range of options for elders’ and veterans’ homes including apartments and cottages, additional home sites with larger lots, and a feasibility for an assisted living facility.

Many details on these projects will be explored, and as the team gets the project rolling, the commu-

Drivers should note recent changes in speed limit along South Market Road/ Highway 331, between Mission Road and the I-84 interchange.

nomic growth seen on the reservation has been impressive, but providing more homes for tribal members to live on the reservation in a home that meets their needs greatly benefits the community through secondary economic development, small business development, increase of jobs available, and community activities – further strengthening our sovereignty and resilience.” said J.D. Tovey III, Planning Director for CTUIR.

nity should expect a lot of opportunities to provide feedback and be part of the process.

“The Reservation is the home of the Cayuse, Umatilla and Walla Walla Indians, but for a long time it was difficult for tribal members to actually live on the reservation –because of fractionation, high land prices, or construction barriers – we are tearing down those barriers,” Tovey said.

Next steps are underway to determine necessary move-in documents for tennants applying for tribal housing. PHOTO COURTESY CTUIR Economic and Community Development

Senate reauthorizes NAHASDA

APRIL HALE

National American Indian Housing Council

WASHINGTON – The National American Indian Housing Council (NAIHC) applauds the US Senate’s July 27 passage of the Native American Housing Assistance and Self-Determination Act (NAHASDA) by an amendment that was attached to the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) with a 86-11 vote. NAHASDA, which has not been reauthorized since 2013, is the largest and most effective federal housing program that assists tribes in providing safe, quality and affordable housing to American Indian, Alaska Native and Native Hawaiian communities.

The NAHASDA amendment

#1078, introduced by Senate Committee on Indian Affairs Chairman Brian Schatz (D-HI) and Vice Chair Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), reauthorizes NAHASDA for seven years with reforms to foster greater local control over NAHASDA programming, streamline environmental reviews for tribal housing projects and incentivize private partnerships.

“The success of NAHASDA and tribal housing programs stems from NAHASDA’s self-determination roots which allow tribes to develop their own Indian Housing Plan to fit the housing needs and priorities of their communities, and it also provides the flexibility tribes need to carry out their programs. Tribes know best how to take care of their own citizens,” said NAIHC Chairman Thomas Lozano.

NAHASDA was passed in 1996 to streamline tribes’ access to housing program dollars by consolidating multiple programs into a single block grant – the Indian Housing Block Grant (IHBG). However, with the lack of increased appropriations to

NAHASDA programs, tribes are piecing their housing programs together by finding resources from different programs across the federal government. Without reauthorization, NAHASDA program funding has remained stagnant for over a decade.

“By creating their own Indian Housing Plan, tribes can prioritize senior assisted housing, rental assistance or homeownership. Reauthorization of NAHASDA means increased resources and stronger programming,” said NAIHC Executive Director Chelsea Fish.

Largest federal tribal housing program is reauthorized for seven years with significant improvements

The NAHASDA amendment was introduced by Sens. Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), left, and Brian Schatz (D-HI), right. PHOTO COURTESY US SENATE INDIAN AFFAIRS COMMITTEE

Practice wildfire prevention as fire season heats up

OREGON DEPARTMENT OF FORESTRY

SALEM, Ore. – The Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) wants to remind Oregonians to stay vigilant this fire season. Over the last several weeks, the department has recognized an uptick in human-caused wildfires. ODF hopes that with understanding and cooperation, human-caused fires do not continue progressing.

With dry fuels, higher temperatures and low humidity, now is the time for Oregonians to actively practice wildfire prevention.

“We all need to do our part to prevent wildfires from starting throughout the year, but right now everyone needs to be extremely careful,” says ODF Fire Protection Chief, Mike Shaw. “With the current conditions, just one spark, cigarette, or open flame could result in Oregon’s next wildfire. Preventing fires from starting helps protect our firefighters and communities from the health, safety, and economic impacts of wildfires and smoke.”

What does actively practicing wildfire prevention mean? It means:

• Check your local fire regulations. Public use and industry restrictions are put in place to help prevent wildfires. By following these regulations, you can help reduce the risk of a human-caused wildfires.

• Recreate responsibly. If allowed, only build campfires in approved campgrounds and make sure your campfire is OUT COLD before leaving. If campfires are banned, consider using a camp stove.

• Check your vehicle. Servicing your car regularly helps reduce the risk of a faulty part throwing sparks into dry grass while you’re driving. Also, make sure to not park or idle over dry grass if you pullover. The heat from your undercarriage or exhaust could ignite the grass below.

• Keep a fire extinguisher on hand. We recommend keeping one in your car just in case you need it while travelling.

• Don’t burn debris. Debris burning is prohibited across Oregon during fire season.

Public and industry fire restrictions are placed for a reason.

Fires in the outdoors start for several reasons (vehicles, campfires, smoking, cutting, grinding and welding metal, power saw use, fireworks, electric fences,

mowing dry grass, etc). Years of research has found that these activities are prone to start fires when vegetation dries out, humidity drops, and temperatures rise.

Based on these studies, fire professionals impose fire restrictions to alert the public and forest workers of these dangers. Check with your local wildland fire protection agency or rural fire district for restrictions specific to your area.

Currently, the state remains between moderate and extreme fire danger, depending on where you are. Remember, human-caused wildfires can be prevented. It only takes a minute to curb your actions before disaster strikes. Visit Oregon.gov/odf to find local fire restrictions.

Area bank offers disaster preparation tips for emergency

UMPQUA BANK

As most in the Pacific Northwest are well aware, wildfire season can have a devastating effect on families, businesses and communities. That’s why there’s so much emphasis on preparation well in advance for a potential emergency – from packing disaster kits to keeping emergency “go” bags close by. This wildfire season, Umpqua Bank is sharing tips for financial preparedness in the event of an emergency, in addition to what you’ve already packed in your disaster kits.

Keep Important Documents Close

Effective disaster preparedness includes the safe storage of, and easy access to, critical financial and insurance documents you may need in an emergency. Consider keeping these important items in a lockbox you can easily grab and go in a disaster. Or, better yet, check with your bank about their safe deposit box offerings for proper safekeeping. Safe deposit

boxes are specifically designed to withstand natural disasters such as floods, fires and tornados.

Documents to consider storing securely in one place include:

• Copy of your passport (or the original if you travel very infrequently)

• Birth certificate

• Marriage license

• Death certificates

• Social Security card

• Copy of your driver’s license

• Titles to your home and vehicles

• Copies of wills, trusts, powers of attorney and medical directives

• Insurance policies

• List of bank accounts, investments and credit cards

• Storage device with photos of belongings and/or an inventory list

• Some cash

If you choose to go the safe deposit box route, “Keep your safe deposit box key on your car ring,” says Clint Gillum, Umpqua Bank Region Manager for the Inland Northwest region.

“A key in a desk drawer can be lost in a natural disaster. Also, consider adding a trusted co-lessor to your box. This person will be able to access the box when and if you can’t.”

Make Sure You’re Insurance Ready

Now is also a good time to check with your insurance agent to ask about the documentation they recommend to have on hand should you need to file a claim. This will likely include things like:

• Detailed photos of expensive items and their serial numbers

• Photos and a list of jewelry, furniture and anything else of greater value or importance

• A video of your home or business and its contents

Remember to back up your photos and videos in the cloud and on a storage device you keep in your safe deposit box.

You may also want to ask your insurer whether your homeowner’s insurance covers your safe deposit

items. While bank accounts are covered by FDIC-insurance, the contents in a safe deposit box are not.

Check with Your Trusted Financial Partners

It’s also smart to know ahead of time what types of assistance your financial institution may offer in the event of an emergency. Assistance could include things like the ability to pause payments in the immediate aftermath of a disaster, mortgage assistance if your ability to pay has been impacted or even rebuilding assistance for damaged homes.

If you live in a higher risk area, check with your bank now to see what they offer and what steps you would need to take to access this assistance. Don’t wait until a fire, earthquake or other natural disaster strikes to understand what options may be available to you.

Making sure you’ve considered all of the financial and insurance possibilities can help you move quickly in the event of a disaster, when time is critical for recovery.

According to the US Drought Monitor, 48.8 percent of Oregon and 51.6 percent of Washington is experiencing drought conditions. GRAPHIC COURTESY DROUGHT. GOV

AWS Community Fund accepting project applications

AMAZON WEB SERVICES

Amazon Web Services (AWS) announces that applications are now open for the AWS InCommunities Fund, a community grant program that supports local initiatives in Morrow and Umatilla Counties.

AWS has committed $300,000 to the fund, which is open to individuals, local community groups, schools, non-profits, and other organizations. This is the second consecutive year AWS is launching a fund to support local projects driving positive change in eastern Oregon as part of its commitment to support communities where it has presence.

Applicants for this year’s fund can apply for grants up to $10,000 to launch a new or expand an existing community project, focused on one of the following themes: science, technology, engineering, arts and math (STEAM) education, sustainability, economic development, workforce development, inclusion, diversity and equity, homelessness, hunger, health and well-being. Applicants can also apply for funding to introduce one of seven established community programs that have been successful in other communities across the world.

“AWS has a long-standing commitment to support meaningful programs in the communities where our employees live and work,” said David Tanner, Director of Data Center Operations for AWS. “Through our AWS InCommunities Fund, we have the unique opportunity to empower residents and inspire the deployment of bold, community-driven ideas that can be transformative and positively impact our neighborhoods.”

Applications for the AWS InCommunities Fund will be accepted until September 1, 2023. The AWS InCommunities fund will be managed and administered by non-profit organization ChangeX. ChangeX will review applications, and will assess and score them against funding criteria and the positive impact to the community, especially underserved populations. All successful applicants will complete a 30-day challenge, which includes mentorship and other resources, to kick-start their idea and take their first steps towards making their project a reality.

To apply to the AWS InCommunities Fund or for more information, visit www.changex.org.

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

I have some concerns and comments on the construction of a costly wellness center in our community. Nowhere in our tribal Constitution, or Enrollment Code, is there a classification of, “not enrolled but employed” by the CTUIR. So, why is this group being given a voice in a major tribal project? It is obvious that Don Sampson, Executive Director, is basing much of his plans on the opinions of this non-recognized group.

In my opinion, non-Indians, employee or not, should not have a voice at all in major tribal endeavor, such as this. Also, under what authority are all these costly plans being made? In 1996, the Board of Trustees delegated, by resolution, policy-making authority for all health care and related services to the tribal Health Commission.

I served on the Health Commission for twenty years, from 1995 to 2015, and during that time the Health Commission never approved a resolution to plan for a wellness center that would serve non-Indians. I also served on the BOT from 2009-2015, and to the best of my knowledge, the BOT has never rescinded or amended the delegation of health policy authority to the tribal Health Commission.

Sampson states, “We’re going to do it. We’ve talked about it for too long”. However, just talking about a new wellness center does not mean it has the necessary approval of the appropriate policymaking tribal body. In this situation, that is the Health Commission. Also, it is improper for management, executive or not, to be a self-appointed policy-maker. This is an obvious conflict of interest.

Sincerely,

Bob Shippentower

StrongHearts supports Family Violence Prevention and Services Improvement Act

EAGAN, Minn. - Domestic and sexual violence impacts more than 1.3 million Americans nationwide and Native American and Alaska Natives experience disproportionately high rates of violence. According to the National Institute of Justice, 84 percent of Native women experience violence in their lifetimes, and 56 percent experience sexual violence.

Legislation introduced July 28 contains significant enhancements for Tribal Nations and will dedicate funding, for the first time, for Tribal Coalitions and a National Indian Domestic Violence Hotline. “These are critical enhancements and will improve access to and the delivery of services to our relatives across the country,” said CEO Lori Jump, StrongHearts Native Helpline. “We applaud the efforts of U.S. Senators Bob Casey (D-PA) and Lisa Murkowski (RAK) who introduced legislation today.”

“I’m introducing the Family Violence Prevention and Services Improvement Act because there are far too many people in this Nation suffering from abuse and violence, particularly those from underserved communities,” said Senator Casey. “I look forward to working with Senator Murkowski to make sure survivors across America have the support they need.”

“I’m proud to once again join Senator Casey in introducing the Family Violence Prevention and Services Act to provide victims of domestic violence with the critical support they need,” Senator Lisa Murkowski said. “Too many Alaskans in rural communities face obstacles to receiving help. This bill would work to increase access to services like crisis counseling, emergency shelters, and support prevention efforts. We must continue to improve access to support services for victims and their children and build on efforts to improve the safety of Alaska’s communities.”

The Family Violence Prevention and Services Act of 1984 (FVPSA) was signed into law in 1984 as the federal government’s first response to the crisis of domestic violence, providing support via grants to domestic violence shelters and programs, including the National Domestic Violence Hotline, and domestic violence coalitions.

resources, to kick-start their idea and take their first steps towards making their project a reality.

To apply to the AWS InCommunities Fund or for more information, visit www.changex.org.

Key economic development legislation passes Senate committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship

Legislation creates a permanent Office of Native American Affairs at SBA

LEWIS LOWE

National Center for American Indian Enterprise Development

WASHINGTON – The Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship approved the Native American Entrepreneurial Opportunity Act (S. 1156) last month. The legislation, sponsored by Senator John Hickenlooper (D-CO) and Cynthia Lummis (R-WY), would create a permanent Associate Administrator at the Office of Native American Affairs (ONAA) within the Small Business Administration (SBA). Currently, the ONAA is established only administratively, which means it is often subject to inconsistent and insufficient funding levels, shifting missions and priorities, and does not always have a direct report to the SBA Administrator. S. 1156 would establish the ONAA by law and require that it be led by an Associate Administrator with a direct report to the SBA Administrator.

The Native American Entrepreneurial Opportunity Act was one of 11 bills that was packaged and approved by an 18-1 vote at the Committee on Wednesday, July 19. Other bills in the package included the

Community Advantage Loan Program and Small Business Lending Company provisions. Additional co-sponsors of S. 1156 are Senators Mazie Hirono (D-HI) and Markwayne Mullin (R-OK).

“The National Center applauds the tireless work of Senators Hickenlooper and Lummis to pass the Native American Entrepreneurial Opportunity Act,” said Chris James, President and CEO of The National Center for American Indian Enterprise Development. “As a former Associate Administrator at SBA, I understand the importance of having an advocate for Indian Country with a direct line to the Administrator. Making this position permanent will mean the unique economic and entrepreneurial needs of our community – and government-to-government consultation – will always be a priority at SBA. I look forward to this vital legislation becoming law to ensure that we always have at seat at the table in an agency that plays a critical role in boosting our economy.”

Establishing a permanent ONAA at SBA led by an Associate Administrator has long been a priority of the National Center, including supporting a similar bill filed by Rep. Sharice Davids (D-KS) in the previous Congress. The National Center has also advocated for creating a similar office at the Department of Commerce. Legislation that elevated and boosted funding for the Office of Native American Business Development within Commerce became law in 2020.

Tribal community response plan adopted in Oregon

State District Attorney collaborates with tribe on process for responding and investigating missing persons reports

US ATTORNEY’S OFFICE District of Oregon

PORTLAND, Ore. – In a first for the District of Oregon, the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs Tribal Council has unanimously adopted a Missing and Murdered Indigenous Persons (MMIP) Tribal Community Response Plan (TCRP).

“When someone goes missing from a Tribal community, it is an urgent and time-sensitive situation. A community response plan ensures that all available resources—government, law enforcement, and community members—are quickly deployed in support of a full and thorough investigation,” said Natalie Wight, U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon. “We thank the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs for their leadership in addressing this important issue.”

A TCRP is a guide for how Tribal law enforcement and community members will respond when someone goes missing from a Tribal community. TCRPs are tailored to the needs, resources, and culture of individual Tribal communities. The Warm Springs TCRP was created in partnership with the U.S.

Attorney’s Office for the District of Oregon as part of the U.S. Department of Justice national MMIP initiative. The District of Oregon is one of six pilot program districts working to develop community response plans in accordance with this initiative. The Warm Springs TCRP establishes four different sets of guidelines relevant to MMIP: law enforcement, victim services, public and media communications, and community outreach. The overall goal of the TCRP is to recognize the critical need for an immediate and consistent response to missing persons reports from the Warm Springs Indian Reservation, establish a formal process for responding to and investigating these reports, and outline the actions that will be taken by Tribal authorities.

In early 2022, the District of Oregon established an MMIP Working Group to increase multi-agency communication and collaboration in support of and response to Oregon-connected MMIP cases. The working group includes at least one representative from each of the nine federally recognized Tribes in Oregon, the FBI, Bureau of Indian Affairs, U.S. Department of Interior Regional Solicitor’s Office, U.S. Marshals Service, Oregon Department of Justice, Oregon State Medical Examiner’s Office, and Oregon State Police.

If you have questions about the U.S. Attorney’s Office MMIP program, email USAOR.PublicAffairs@ usdoj.gov or call (503) 727-1000.

LAMPREY

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

the celebration, and another crew went out to harvest that afternoon.

Umatilla tribal citizens said this was the biggest harvest in several years. But there is still work to be done in the fight for lamprey population restoration, according to Sams.

Though Willamette Falls is not accessible to the general public, four tribes have treaty rights granting them access to subsistence and ceremonial harvest at the falls — Yakama Nation, the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation, the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs and the Nez Perce Tribe. The Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde also harvests lamprey and salmon at the falls, under an agreement with the state of Oregon.

“Historically, we came down here to harvest and trade but really just to be amongst the river people,” Sams said. “Everybody is our relative. Before treaties and lines were crossed, we

were all Indigenous people who lived together and fished and gathered and celebrated.”

While Umatilla harvesters searched for lamprey July 13, hundreds of community members gathered at Clackamette Park.

In celebration of the harvest this year, and to honor the lamprey themselves, Yakama Nation hosted the second annual Willamette Falls Lamprey Celebration.

“I’m here today for the gathering and have been coming here since the 1960s, since I was a little boy going out on boats with my father and watching him gather the eels,” said Arnold Eyle, member of the Yakama Nation Tribal Council.

A group of elder Yakama women were hard at work preparing lamprey to feed the crowd. Dressed in a flannel apron with her hair pulled back by a floral scarf, one of the women deftly sliced open each lamprey. She used the back of her thumb and a spoon to remove the guts before rinsing the fish and handing it off to be fileted and eventually barbecued.

“Why we’re here today is because we show the lamprey that we’re not

forgetting them, we’re honoring them, and letting them know that we’re gonna take care of them,” said Terry Heemsah Sr, member of the Yakama Nation Tribal Council and member of the Fish and Wildlife Committee.

Lamprey are an important first food for Pacific Northwest tribes, who have been harvesting at the falls since time immemorial.

Davey Lumley, a Yakama Nation pacific lamprey biologist, pulled a live lamprey out of a fish tank while educating onlookers about the eellike fish.

“I’ve heard stories about how the population here used to be massive,” Lumley said, gesturing in the direction of the falls. “It used to cover the rocks, used to be known as ‘maiden’s hair’ because the lamprey was so thick, it looked like hair in the water.”

A keystone species, lamprey have been around for over 450 million years.

For the first three to seven years of their lives, pacific lamprey live in the sediment of creeks as filter feeders. Once mature, they become parasitic adults, migrating to the ocean to feed on bigger fish by latching on and

using their pointed tongs to create a small hole to feed on the blood of the host fish — the host typically does not die. Ending their life cycle, lamprey return home to rivers and creek beds to spawn, attracted by the pheromones of other lamprey.

Though lamprey have long served as an important food source for local tribes, there has been a significant decline in lamprey populations. Some of the biggest threats to the species include dams and negative imagery about lamprey, according to Lumley.

“River Monsters did an episode where they actually came here, but they didn’t distinguish between our lamprey, the Pacific lamprey, and the sea lamprey,” Lumley said. “As a lamprey biologist enthusiast, it was unfortunate to watch that. So educational outreach is very important.”

Not only did Lumley’s booth at the celebration provide education about lamprey, she also talked about lamprey conservation efforts led by tribes.

In 2009, Yakama Nation began the Pacific Lamprey Project to aid in restoring Pacific lamprey population levels.

CTUIR Board Member Corinne Sams addresses a group of tribal youth July 13 at Willamette Falls during the second annual Lamprey Celebration. PHOTOS BY LEE GAVIN

The project monitors lamprey population levels, runs a hatchery, performs habitat surveys and interviews tribal elders for historical background, among other things, according to Lumley.

Lamprey biologists like Lumley serve as a voice advocating for the lamprey.

The Columbia River Inter-Tribal Fish Commission, made up of the Nez Perce, Umatilla, Warm Springs and Yakama tribes, also leads lamprey restoration efforts.

The Commission, along with the Willamette Falls Trust, supported Yakama Nation in hosting this year’s lamprey feast and celebration.

Guided by traditional ecological knowledge, the fight to recognize the importance of lamprey for both ecosystem health and cultural significance has been an effort led by local tribes. Hopefully, increasing numbers of lamprey will continue to return to the falls.

“The work that we do and the words that we speak are borrowed from our ancestors and we pass that down generation to generation,” Sams said. “So today, the work that we’re doing, this celebration, this isn’t for us, it’s for those that are yet unborn.”

Above: Rosie Johnson Guerin of Warm Springs cleans lamprey in preparation for drying. Below: Guerin shows off her skewered lamprey that is ready for drying.

Cynthia Esporit cleans a lamprey.

Happy Canyon Princesses, L`aatis Nowland (left) and Susie Blackwolf Patrick

CTUIR names new CUJ editor

CHRIS AADLAND CTUIR Communications

MISSION, Ore. – The Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation (CTUIR) has hired Lisa Snell as the new editor of the award-winning Confederated Umatilla Journal (CUJ).

Snell, who has spent her career as a journalist serving tribal communities, started her role on Monday, July 17. She moved to the area with her husband, who is also a journalist, and their two children, for the position.

“Lisa brings extensive experience in tribal newspapers and journalism to the CUJ,” said CTUIR Communications Director and CUJ Publisher Kaeleen McGuire. “Lisa is excited to learn about our community, and her energy, ideas, and professionalism are a great match for the CUJ.”

Snell, a citizen of the Cherokee Nation, has spent most of her career with publications serving tribal communities. She got her start in journalism working for the Cherokee Nation’s newspaper, the Cherokee Phoenix. Snell then worked for the Native American Times, which she eventually bought and managed.

In addition, Snell also launched a magazine, Native Oklahoma, to meet a demand for more feature stories about Indigenous people and tribal nations in Oklahoma. She also wrote a travel guide, “American Indians & Route 66,” for the American Indian

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used to install screens to prevent fish from entering irrigation ditches.

Some other key elements in the Interior bill to support tribes in Oregon and across the country include:

• Advanced Appropriations for the Indian Health Service (IHS): The bill provides an advance appropriation of $5.22 billion in fiscal year 2025 for the IHS. Advance appropriations will improve the reliability of health care services provided by IHS to more than 2.5 million American Indians and Alaska Natives by ensuring predictable funding and protecting services from future lapses in funding due to government shutdowns and unpredictable budget years. The IHS

operates health care facilities within Oregon in Warm Springs and Salem. Additionally, the bill provides $82 million for staffing newly built IHS facilities around the country.

• Tribal Programs and Services: The bill includes $11.2 billion in critical funding for tribal communities across the country, including $7.17 billion for the IHS and $243.6 million for the Indian Reservation Drinking Water Program, which addresses water infrastructure challenges like those faced by the Warm Springs community. Additionally, the bill includes $95 million for the Bureau of Indian Education, which oversees 184 schools across 23 states.

• Tribal Public Safety and Justice: The bill provides $592 million—a $12.5 million increase above the FY23 level—to support police services, special initiatives to address Missing and Murdered Indigenous Persons

cases, Tribal courts, and Detention and Corrections facilities.

• Columbia River Treaty Fishing Access Sites: The bill provides $5.5 million for Columbia River In-Lieu Treaty Sites, including an increase of $1 million for fishing sites construction, to further implement senator Merkley’s Columbia River In-Lieu and Treaty Fishing Access Sites Improvement Act.

• Columbia River Basin Restoration: The Columbia River Basin Geographic Program will receive a 17% increase to $3.5 million in the bill, the largest percentage increase of the Environmental Protection Agency geographic programs, for restoration efforts in the basin.

• Fisheries Restoration and Irrigation Mitigation Act (FRIMA): The bill provides $5 million in funding for FRIMA, for fish passage devices, fish screens and other related features

Alaska Native Tourism Association, in partnership with the National Park Service, to highlight tribal perspectives and the voices of Indigenous people living along the historic route. Most recently, Snell taught English in the Czech Republic. She has a Bachelor of Arts in Communications from the University of Tulsa.

“I’m really thrilled to have the opportunity to be here and to learn about a tribe that’s not my own, and at the same time, contribute the best way I know how, which is to put together a quality publication,” Snell said.

As editor, Snell will oversee operations of the monthly newspaper – writing and editing local, community-focused news stories, designing and laying out the paper, selling advertisements to generate revenue, and establishing and maintaining subscriptions.

to mitigate water diversion impacts on fisheries in Oregon, Washington, Montana, Idaho, and California. FRIMA is an important tool to conserve and restore native anadromous and resident fish populations in the Pacific Northwest.

Now that the Interior bill has cleared the Appropriations Committee, it next heads to the Senate floor for a full vote before it can be conferenced with its counterpart bill in the U.S. House of Representatives. The final, merged legislation must then be passed by both chambers before it is signed into law.

Federal funding comes through the FY24 Senate Interior, Environment and Related Agencies Appropriations bill, which encompasses funding for the Department of the Interior, U.S. Forest Service, and the EPA.

Lisa Snell

BOT visits potential housing sites along the Columbia

Decades after the loss of Celilo Falls and Village to the Dalles Dam, the Army Corps of Engineers is working with CTUIR to replace tribal housing there.

GARRETT BROWN CTUIR Office of Legal Counsel

MISSION, Ore. – The CTUIR Board of Trustees and staff toured existing In-Lieu and Treaty Fishing Access sites and potential housing sites along the Columbia River July 12-13. The group visited some promising sites for housing, ruled out others, and bore witness to the conditions at the fishing sites.

In the mid-twentieth century, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers constructed several dams that inundated tribal fishing and village sites along the Columbia River. In 1957, the construction of The Dalles Dam resulted in the devastating loss of Celilo Falls and Village. When the U.S. Congress authorized the construction of these dams, it also directed the Army Corps to replace tribal housing. After many decades, the Army Corps is finally working to meet this obligation.

In 2016, the Army Corps presented the Columbia River Treaty Tribes with a list of potential housing sites along the Columbia River. Based on the existing legislation at the time, the Army Corps determined that only sites located in The Dalles dam pool would be considered for developing housing. The BOT and staff have spent the last several years pursuing legislative fixes in Congress while working with the Army Corps on The Dalles Village Development Plan.

Recent legislation expanded the

areas that can be considered for development. On December 23, 2022, President Biden signed the National Defense Authorization Act of 2023 which included the Water Resources Development Act of 2022 (WRDA 2022). WRDA 2022 clarified the Army Corps’ authority to address the current housing needs along the Columbia River. Significantly, WRDA 2022 included clear legal authority for the Army Corps to develop multiple housing sites.

PHOTOS

The Board and staff are working with the Corps to evaluate possible housing sites, including sites beyond the area of The Dalles dam. During their tour, the CTUIR group traveled to several In-Lieu and Treaty fishing Access sites, and ten potential housing sites. The CTUIR group also met with staff from the Columbia River Inter-Tribal Fishing Commission (CRITFC) and N’Chi Wana Housing. The Board of Trustees will follow up this tour with a work session on

August 11, 2023.

CTUIR Board of Trustees attendees included: Chair Kat Brigham, Vice Chair Aaron Ashley, Secretary Sally Kosey, Member at Large and Fish & Wildlife Commission Chair Corrine Sams, Member at Large Toby Partick, and Member at Large Boots Pond. CTUIR staff included: Housing Department Director Marcus Luke, Housing Department Maintenance Manager Tanner Michael, and Attorney Garrett Brown.

Boots Pond, CTUIR Board of Trustees Member at Large, looks out at tribal fishing scaffolds and the The Dalles Dam. The group toured the Lone Pine In-Lieu Site and Columbia River Inter-Tribal Fishing Commission’s storage lot.

BY GARRETT BROWN

The group visits Yakama Nation Housing Authority’s Wishram Heights development in Wishram, Wash., with Nchi Wana Housing Director Debra Whitefoot. YNHA recently opened the new low-income tax credit development to provide housing for tribal members along the Columbia River.

CTUIR Board of Trustees minutes

JUNE 26, 2023

Ascertainment of Quorum. BOT

Present: Kat Brigham, BOT Chair; Aaron Ashley, Vice-Chair; Sandra Sampson, Treasurer; Sally Kosey, Secretary; Toby Patrick, Member; Boots Pond, Member; Lisa Ganuelas, Member; Corinne Sams, Member and Lindsey Watchman, General Council Chairman. Full quorum present.

Old Business:

Official Polled Action: No. 23-033

Subject: Request to purchase Microsoft 365 GCC Licenses.

OIT requests to purchase Microsoft M365 software, Microsoft M365 implementation for the purpose of Government Community Cloud Licenses. The cost saving in salary will be used to Purchase Microsoft government level license. MOTION: Sally Kosey moves to ratify OIT budget modification to purchase M265 GCC Licenses. Lindsey Watchman seconds. Discussion. Question. Motion carries 8-0-0.

No. 23-034 Subject: USDA-RD Rural Business Development Program Grant.

MOTION: Boots Pond moves to authorize the OED to accept award of the USDA-RD Rural Business Development Program Grant (RBDG) # 43-030-0912740104 in the amount of $81,060.00 and approve the match requirement of the grant in the amount of NTE $44,958.00 from contingency funds. This grant is specifically for the CTUIR Ag Economic Development Plan completion costs. Sally Kosey seconds. Discussion. Question. Motion carries 8-0-0.

New Business:

a. Proposed Resolutions: Next resolution number is 23-058:

Resolution 23-058: Topic: Approval of Oregon Department of Energy Performance Agreement. RESOLVED, that the Board of Trustees does hereby approve the Performance Agreement between the Confederated Tribes and the Oregon Department of Energy attached to

this Resolution as Exhibit 1C; BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Board of Trustees does hereby approve the Amendment to the Tutuilla Solar, LLC Lease Agreement attached to this Resolution as Exhibit 2C; BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED, that the Board of Trustees hereby authorizes its Chair to execute the attached Performance Agreement and Amendment to Lease Agreement or documents containing substantially similar terms, and further authorizes its Chair and Executive Director to take such further action and to execute documents that may be necessary to carry out the purposes of this Resolution. MOTION: Corinne Sams moves to adopt Resolution 23-058. Toby Patrick seconds. Discussion. Question. Motion carries 8-0-0.

Resolution 23-059: Topic: DV Mandatory Minimum Criminal Code Amendments.

RESOLVED, that the Confederated Tribes hereby amends the Criminal Code in accordance with the attached document (Exhibit

1), indicating deletions by strikethroughs and additions by underline to implement mandatory minimum sentencing for domestic violence convictions and to amend the assault crime to ensure tribal convictions are considered for federal firearms prohibitions. MOTION: Sally Kosey moves to adopt Resolution 23-059. Corinne Sams seconds. Discussion. Question. Motion carries 8-0-0.

Resolution 23-060: Topic: Hemp Code.

RESOLVED, that the Confederated Tribes hereby adopt the Hemp Code (Exhibit 1), authorize the Chair to sign the required letter of certification (Exhibit 2), and authorize staff to submit the Hemp Code to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) for approval and authorization, as well as the Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI) for sections related to the Tribal Access Program for federal fingerprint criminal background checks. If the USDA or the FBI suggest additional changes, staff will promptly present

BOT

those amendments to the Board for consideration and adoption; MOTION: Corinne Sams moves to adopt amended Resolution 23-060. Sally Kosey seconds. Discussion. Question. Motion carries 8-0-0.

Resolution 23-061: Topic: Limited Scope Retention Agreement for GRAP Amendments.

RESOLVED, that the Board of Trustees does hereby approve the Limited Scope Retention Agreement between the Confederated Tribes and the firm of Yoder and Langford, P.C. attached to this Resolution as Exhibit 1C to provide legal services in connection with the amendment of the Confederated Tribes’ Gaming Revenue Allocation Plan in a manner that minimizes or eliminates Federal income taxation of the gaming distributions to Tribal members; BE IT

FINALLY RESOLVED, that the legal fees to be paid for Robert Yoder’s legal services are hereby appropriated from the Finance Office indirect budget; MOTION: Aaron Ashley moves to adopt Resolution 23-061. Sandra Sampson seconds. Discussion.

Question. Motion carries 8-0-0.

Resolution 23-062: Topic: WSDOT SR730 Rockfall Prevention Memorandum of Agreement.

RESOLVED, that the Board of Trustees hereby approves the attached Memorandum of Agreement between the Confederated Tribes, Federal Highway Administration, Washington State Historic Preservation Office, Confederated Tribes and Bands of the Yakama Nation, and the Washington State Department of Transportation and authorizes its Chair to execute it on behalf of the Confederated Tribes and to take such further action and execute other documents, if any, that are necessary to carry out the purposes of the Memorandum of Agreement and this Resolution; MOTION: Corinne Sams moves to adopt Resolution 23-062. Toby Patrick seconds. Discussion. Question. Motion carries 8-0-0.

Other Board Action Items: None.

BOT Travel or External Meeting Reports:

Boots Pond, 6/13-15 at Tulalip, WA re: Clean Energy Summit.

Kat Brigham, 6/20-2121 at Ilana,

WA re: ATNI Executive Board meeting. 6/14-16 at PDX, The Dalles, Rock Creek re: Columbia River tour for DC Administration and Admin staff.

Lisa Ganuelas, 6/16-17 on Ag tour.

Sally Kosey, 6/20-30 a Prosser, ID to attend ATNI Convention. Sally Kosey, 6/15-16 to Rock Creek WA for meeting with Mr. Podesta and Mr. Turk on tribal issues. MOTION: Corinne Sams moves to approve travel report(s). Boots Pond- seconds. Discussion. Question. Motion carries 7-0-0. [Aaron Ashley Not present for vote]

BOT Leave and Travel or Outside Meeting Requests:

Boots Pond, PL 7/21-31 PL request Corinne Sams, 6/21-23 travel to Lapwai, ID.

Kat Brigham, 6/29-CRT NDA travel Webex CRT Tribal NDA Updates. 6/12 polled PL leave 6/12, ½ hour AM.

6/19-21 polled travel to ATNI Executive Board Meeting. 6/26-29 cancelled Tribal Self- Governance meeting cancelled.

Lisa Ganuelas: 7/28, PL 1 ½ hours Medical Appointment. 6/21, polled personal leave for Medical Appointment.

6/21, polled personal leave for 4 ½ hours AM. 7/17-21 travel to Ganuelas Soil Health Academy Redwood Falls, MN.

7/12-14, travel to Seattle for UW NAA Board mtg. Seattle.

Sally K 6/26 PL for 1-hour PM. 6/15 polled travel to Rock Creek 6/15.

Toby Patrick: 7/7 BL all day. 6/13 polled PL 1-hour PM. 6/20, polled PL 7.5 hours. 6/16, personal leave 3 hours.

6/14, personal leave all day. 6/13, personal leave 1 hours. 6/20, personal leave all day. 6/15, polled travel to Rock Creek.

MOTION: Sally Kosey moves to ratify and approve leave requests. Lindsey Watchman seconds. Discussion. Question. Motion carries 8-0-0.

BOT

New Business: a. Proposed Resolutions: Next resolution number is 23-058:

Resolution 23-058: Topic: Approval of Oregon Department of Energy Performance Agreement.

RESOLVED, that the Board of Trustees does hereby approve the Performance Agreement between the Confederated Tribes and the Oregon Department of Energy attached to this Resolution as Exhibit 1C; BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Board of Trustees does hereby approve the Amendment to the Tutuilla Solar, LLC Lease Agreement attached to this Resolution as Exhibit 2C; BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED, that the Board of Trustees hereby authorizes its Chair to execute the attached Performance Agreement and Amendment to Lease Agreement or documents containing substantially similar terms, and further authoriz-

es its Chair and Executive Director to take such further action and to execute documents that may be necessary to carry out the purposes of this Resolution. MOTION: Corinne Sams moves to adopt Resolution 23-058. Toby Patrick seconds. Discussion. Question. Motion carries 8-0-0.

Resolution 23-059: Topic: DV Mandatory Minimum Criminal Code Amendments.

RESOLVED, that the Confederated Tribes hereby amends the Criminal Code in accordance with the attached document (Exhibit 1), indicating deletions by strikethroughs and additions by underline to implement mandatory minimum sentencing for domestic violence convictions and to amend the assault crime to ensure tribal convictions are considered for federal firearms prohibitions. MOTION: Sally Kosey moves to adopt Resolution 23-059. Corinne Sams seconds. Discussion. Question. Motion carries 8-0-0.

Resolution 23-060: Topic: Hemp Code.

RESOLVED, that the Confederated Tribes hereby adopt the Hemp Code

(Exhibit 1), authorize the Chair to sign the required letter of certification (Exhibit 2), and authorize staff to submit the Hemp Code to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) for approval and authorization, as well as the Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI) for sections related to the Tribal Access Program for federal fingerprint criminal background checks. If the USDA or the FBI suggest additional changes, staff will promptly present those amendments to the Board for consideration and adoption; MOTION: Corinne Sams moves to adopt amended Resolution 23-060. Sally Kosey seconds. Discussion. Question. Motion carries 8-0-0.

Resolution 23-061: Topic: Limited Scope Retention Agreement for GRAP Amendments.

RESOLVED, that the Board of Trustees does hereby approve the Limited Scope Retention Agreement between the Confederated Tribes and the firm of Yoder and Langford, P.C. attached to this Resolution as Exhibit 1C to provide legal services in connection with the amendment of the Confederated Tribes’ Gaming Revenue Allocation Plan in a manner

that minimizes or eliminates Federal income taxation of the gaming distributions to Tribal members; BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED, that the legal fees to be paid for Robert Yoder’s legal services are hereby appropriated from the Finance Office indirect budget; MOTION: Aaron Ashley moves to adopt Resolution 23-061. Sandra Sampson seconds. Discussion. Question. Motion carries 8-0-0.

Resolution 23-062: Topic: WSDOT SR730 Rockfall Prevention Memorandum of Agreement.

RESOLVED, that the Board of Trustees hereby approves the attached Memorandum of Agreement between the Confederated Tribes, Federal Highway Administration, Washington State Historic Preservation Office, Confederated Tribes and Bands of the Yakama Nation, and the Washington State Department of Transportation and authorizes its Chair to execute it on behalf of the Confederated Tribes and to take such further action and execute other documents, if any, that are necessary to carry out the purposes of the Memorandum of Agreement and this Resolution; MOTION: Corinne Sams

BOT CONTINUED NEXT PAGE

BOT

CONTINUED

moves to adopt Resolution 23-062. Toby Patrick seconds. Discussion. Question. Motion carries 8-0-0. Other Board Action Items: None.

BOT Travel or External Meeting Reports:

Boots Pond, 6/13-15 at Tulalip, WA re: Clean Energy Summit.

Kat Brigham, 6/20-2121 at Ilana, WA re: ATNI Executive Board meeting. 6/14-16 at PDX, The Dalles, Rock Creek re: Columbia River tour for DC Administration and Admin staff.

Lisa Ganuelas, 6/16-17 on Ag tour.

Sally Kosey, 6/20-30 a Prosser, ID to attend ATNI Convention. Sally Kosey, 6/15-16 to Rock Creek WA for meeting with Mr. Podesta and Mr. Turk on tribal issues.

BLM celebrates Great American Outdoors Day with free day-use access

PORTLAND, Ore. — The Bureau of Land Management is waiving recreation day-use fees for visitors on August 4, 2023, in celebration of the third annual Great American Outdoors Day. Within Oregon and Washington, the BLM’s standard amenity day-use fees will be waived at the following:

• Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area

• Cape Blanco Lighthouse

• Wildwood Recreation Site

• Hyatt Lake Recreation Area

• Gerber Recreation Area

• Yakima River Canyon

• Loon Lake Recreation Site

• Alsea Falls Recreation Site

• Shotgun Creek Recreation Site

• Edson Creek Recreation Site

• Spring Recreation Site

The standard amenity fee waiver does not guarantee admission to some busy recreation areas where reservations for day-use, group sites, and overnight camping are recommended. Contact the local BLM office if you have any questions about a recreation site you are interested in visiting. For more information about the BLM’s recreation fee program, visit www.blm.gov.

MOTION: Corinne Sams moves to approve travel report(s). Boots Pondseconds. Discussion. Question. Motion carries 7-0-0. [Aaron Ashley Not present for vote]

BOT Leave and Travel or Outside Meeting Requests:

Boots Pond, PL 7/21-31 PL request

Corinne Sams, 6/21-23 travel to Lapwai, ID.

Kat Brigham, 6/29-CRT NDA travel Webex CRT Tribal NDA Updates. 6/12 polled PL leave 6/12, ½ hour AM.

6/19-21 polled travel to ATNI Executive Board Meeting. 6/26-29 cancelled Tribal Self- Governance meeting cancelled.

Lisa Ganuelas: 7/28, PL 1 ½ hours Medical Appointment. 6/21, polled personal leave for Medical Appointment.

6/21, polled personal leave for 4 ½ hours AM. 7/17-21 travel to Ganuelas Soil Health Academy Redwood Falls, MN.

7/12-14, travel to Seattle for UW NAA Board mtg. Seattle.

Sally K 6/26 PL for 1-hour PM. 6/15 polled travel to Rock Creek 6/15.

Toby Patrick: 7/7 BL all day. 6/13 polled PL 1-hour PM. 6/20, polled PL 7.5 hours. 6/16, personal leave 3 hours.

6/14, personal leave all day. 6/13, personal leave 1 hours. 6/20, personal leave all day. 6/15, polled travel to Rock Creek.

MOTION: Sally Kosey moves to ratify and approve leave requests. Lindsey Watchman seconds. Discussion. Question. Motion carries 8-0-0.

The monthly newspaper of the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation

Treaty Day 3 on 3 tourney a sucess

PENDLETON, Ore. – The 2023 CTUIR Treaty Day 3 on 3 tournament was a great success thanks to the Family Engagement Program, DCFS, General Council, and Youth Council for assisting in bracket management, sign-ups, refereeing and scorekeeping. The 3 on 3 took place on Treaty Day, June 9 and included several brackets: K-1st, 2nd-3rd, 4th5th, middle school and high school.

The champions of the K-1st bracket were Wocatsie Jones, Tydell Ball, James McAllister and Nila Mayfield.

The 2nd-3rd champions were Ryatt Damian, Hayden Plume, Waylon Breazeale and Kiya Frost.

The champions of the 4th-5th were Darrel Ball, Kateri Jones, Aniah Watchman and Michael Moses.

Middle school bracket champs were Cashis Bevis, Sun Schimmel, Jeffery VanPelt and Annalise Watchman.

Wildhorse Golf Classic begins Aug. 14

2023 Ladies Golf Classic attracts players and fans from around the world to Oregon

MARY LIBERTY-TRAUGHBER

Wildhorse Resort & Casino

PENDLETON, Ore. - Wildhorse Resort & Casino and the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation (CTUIR) are bringing the next generation of elite women golfers from around the world to Oregon this summer. In its second year played in Pendleton, the Epson Tour’s 2023 Wildhorse Ladies Golf Classic kicks off August 14-20 at the Wildhorse Golf Course and the Golf Course at Birch Creek, giving local fans a chance to catch a glimpse of greatness, while delivering a

significant economic impact to the local community throughout the month.

“We are proud to bring a world-class sporting event back to the Wildhorse Golf Course and the Golf Course at Birch Creek this year, connecting players and fans from around the world to our community,” said Wildhorse CEO Gary George. “From providing opportunities for local youth to meet and learn from players, to offering a week of high caliber sporting events and family-friendly activities, this annual event is an important investment in our community and a great chance to see global stars right here at home.”

Event organizers have worked hard to ensure everyone can enjoy the 2023 Wildhorse Ladies Golf Classic in Pendleton this year. Tournament players will mentor local youth at sports

Pro golfer Min-G Kim takes a swing at the green last year during the second round of the Florida’s Natural Charity Classic.

PHOTO COURTESY EPSON TOUR

STAFF REPORT

Young winners took home bunches of water balloons and colored markers. COURTESY PHOTO

Sturgeon fishing closed

All sturgeon fishing upstream of The Dalles Dam closed as of July 29

OREGON DEPARTMENT OF

CLACKAMAS, Ore. – Effective July 29-Sept. 15, all sturgeon fishing including catch-and-release is prohibited in the mainstem Columbia River from The Dalles Dam to the Priest Rapids Dam, per fishery managers from Washington and Oregon.

The decision was made due to increased mortality among adult sturgeon attributed to warm water temperatures. Approximately 24 adult sturgeon mortalities have been reported recently with most occurring in the John Day Pool.

High water temperatures and lower dissolved oxygen have been shown to stress and kill sturgeon. While only catch-and-release fishing is allowed this time of year, closing all fishing will help reduce stress from capture and handling and give sturgeon some relief until water temperatures cool off in September.

Sturgeon can live to be 100 years or older and don’t reach breeding maturity until they are about 20 years old and about six feet long. Older female sturgeon can produce ten times the number of eggs as young females and may carry up to 100 pounds of eggs.

While the lower and mid-Columbia River white sturgeon populations are not considered to be in danger, the population is not at desired abundance, especially in some of the reservoirs where recruitment of young fish is sporadic.

ODFW will continue to coordinate with other fish managers to monitor sturgeon mortality in the Bonneville, The Dalles, and John Day reservoirs.

FISH & WILDLIFE

Sturgeon fishing is closed until waters cool in September. PHOTO COURTESY WASHINGTON DEPARTMENT OF FISH & WILDLIFE

Halibut angling days added

Beginning Aug. 3, anglers can fish seven days a week for Pacific halibut in the summer all-depth fishery. This

Five days are now added to the alldepth fishery: Aug. 26-27, Sept. 8-9, Cape Falcon to Ledbetter Point, WA.

enough quota remains in the subarea to give anglers more days to harvest these prized fish. He reminds anglers landed halibut must be immediately

regulations page that includes maps,

A good-sized halibut is ready to come aboard a boat fishing off Neah Bay along the northern coast of Washington. PHOTO COURTESY CHASE GUNNELL

3 ON 3

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

The champions of the high school bracket were Grace Moses, Saint Schimmel, Sistine Moses, and Bear Moses.

The tournament was a great opportunity to break in the recently completed court in the old projects. Appreciation goes out to CTUIR Public Works for making that happen.

While the kids were the ones on the court, the entire community came together to support the youth and enjoy the resources provided by vendors. Families and individuals were able to choose a boxed lunch and snacks provided by the General Council and the Family Engagement Program with a side of laughter!

Considering the community enjoyed this event, and others missed out, the Family Engagement Program will be hosting another 3-on-3 tournament during the Community Picnic in August. Adults will also have a bracket, so be sure to get your teams ready for sign-ups.

CTUIR staff wants to thank the community for showing support and sharing the good medicine of laughter.

Annalise Watchman and Marcella Jack-Stanger

Sun Schimmel celebrates with teammates Saint Schimmel and Cashis Bevis

Way to Go!

Jaxon Billy-Beloit is an enrolled citizen of the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation. Jaxon is an incoming 8th grader at Pilot Rock and just competed at the National Trap Shooting finals in Mason, Michigan. He shot a 90/100 and shot his first 25/25 in his practice round. Congratulation Jaxson!

Way to Go!

William Dailey caught a 14 ¾” trout at the 2nd Annual School Supply Fish Derby that was held on July 15, 2023 at Indian Lake. He hails from Wenatchee, WA.

BE THE FOUNDATION FOR THE NEXT GENERATION. Your contributions provide resources that support Native college students as they become the next generation of leaders within their communities. Visit CollegeFund.org to donate.

Šináata Scholarship

Whitman College has partnered with the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation (CTUIR) to develop a scholarship for students who are enrolled members of the CTUIR. Students with close ties to the CTUIR are also eligible for the scholarship.

The Šináata Scholarship covers the full cost of attendance at Whitman, including tuition, fees, food, housing, travel, books and supplies—and is renewable for all four years. This is Whitman’s largest scholarship.

Learn more about the scholarship

CTUIR Youth Council attends GONA

CTUIR YOUTH COUNCIL

The Nimiipuu youth from Lapwai, Idaho, have a youth council called NAHOVA, “Native Americans Hear Our Voices”. The NAHOVA cohort generates an annual youth summit known as the GONA, Gathering of Native Americans.

The CTUIR Youth Council attended the GONA for the second time. The youth were educated on what trauma is, what the impact of trauma is, and the responses to trauma and how it affects tribal nations. They learned

why hope is important to have as a tool. They also learned the importance of goal setting and putting mental health first.

This summit was very educational, and included inspiring speakers such as Kellen Trenal, Levi Horn, Dr. Maegan Rides At The Door and many more. Not only was this summit very educational, but super fun. The youth participated in the BBQ youth social, a dance and 3-on-3 stick games. It was a great time and the CTUIR Youth Council would like to thank the NAHOVA cohort for the invitation and DCFS staff for the support.

Columbia River Professional Chapter honored by AISES

CTUIR NATURAL RESOURCES

The Columbia River Professional Chapter (CRPC) of the American Indian Science & Engineering Society (AISES) received a national award for professional chapter of the year. AISES National recognized the Chapter at its annual conference last fall in Palm Springs for its outstanding community service.

“You may have seen a booth hosted by CRPC at our Community Picnic in August,” said Kate Ely, a CTUIR employee and member of CRPC. John Cox, a former CTUIR employee and member of the Cow Creek Band of Umpqua Tribe, plays Mr. Wizard at science fairs. He is a pied piper of science encouraging Native youths to explore their many options.

Since its establishment in 1993 the CRPC has been an advocate and resource for Indigenous people, particularly those working in STEM careers, throughout the region as well as being a voice and resource to our community, sharing Native American culture, past and present. STEM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering and Math and includes a gamut of disciplines.

Over its 30-year history the CRPC, thanks to local sponsors, individual donors, volunteers, friends, and Chapter members, has awarded $35,000 in scholarships to 40 Native American students to assist them in pursuing a college education in STEM or STEM-related fields.

In addition to supporting STEM scholarships, the CRPC engages in a broad range of activities throughout the year including Native American Month, Native American themed activities at public schools, hosting speakers, STEM events and social gatherings.

Scheduled activities and events, membership information, and/or how to make a charitable donation to the CRPC can be found at https://www.facebook.com/AISESCRPC or by contacting AISES-CRPC President, John Cox, at johncox46@live.com, or call 509-375-0269.

CTUIR Youth Council members and sponsors: Michelle VanPelt, Lindsey Pasena- Littlesky, Breez VanPelt, Meadow Morris, Penelope Gavin- Harvey, Garian McDonald, Diamond Greene, Weptas Brockie, Brooklyn Jones, and Juie Taylor

John Sandoval (right) a life-time member of AISES and a member of the Ohkay Owingeh Pueblo tribal nation, accepting a Community Service Award on behalf of AISES-CRPC at the AISES National Meeting in Palm Springs, Calif., from Dr. Joseph Connolly, Aerospace Engineer from the NASA Glenn Research Center. COURTESY PHOTO

Plateau at Wildhorse Resort & Casino Wins Award of Excellence

WILDHORSE RESORT & CASINO

PENDLETON, Ore. - Plateau, the premier fine dining restaurant located at Wildhorse Resort & Casino in Pendleton, Oregon, is thrilled to announce its recent recognition with the prestigious Award of Excellence from Wine Spectator. This is the first time that Plateau has received an award from Wine Spectator, further solidifying its position as a leading destination for exceptional dining experiences.

The Award of Excellence is a highly sought-after accolade in the culinary world, bestowed upon

restaurants that offer meticulously curated wine lists with approximately 90 selections or more. These lists feature wines from quality producers, often not readily available at local wine stores, ensuring guests have a unique and exclusive wine experience. The selections are carefully chosen to complement the restaurant’s cuisine in terms of both style and pricing, allowing guests to enjoy a well-rounded and memorable dining experience.

“We are extremely honored to receive the Award of Excellence from Wine Spectator,” said Diana Dumitru, Manager of Plateau. “This recognition is a testament to our commitment to providing

our guests with exceptional food and wine. We’re proud to offer an extensive wine list that showcases the best producers and allows our guests to discover extraordinary wines they wouldn’t easily find elsewhere.”

What sets Plateau apart is its remarkable team of sommeliers. Led by Dumitru, Plateau boasts three staff members who hold level two awards in the Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET) program of sommeliers. It is rare to have such a knowledgeable and passionate team of sommeliers at one restaurant, and their expertise elevates the dining experience by offering expert wine recommendations and insights.

Plateau’s wine list features an impressive selection of 170 choices, with an inventory of over 1500 bottles. Notably, the restaurant prides itself on its collection of older vintages and a dedicated category on the list from the Rocks District of Milton-Freewater, Oregon. This section showcases biodynamic wines from Cayuse Vineyards, where all the fruit is grown using biodynamic farming methods, highlighting Plateau’s commitment to sustainability and exceptional quality.

Situated within the elegant confines of Wildhorse Resort & Casino, Plateau is renowned for its upscale dining experience. The restaurant’s menu predominantly offers à la carte options, showcasing premium steaks, seafood, and a higher standard of cuisine. In addition, special event dinners provide guests with a unique culinary journey that goes beyond the ordinary.

Proudly serving guests since 2007, Plateau is a favorite fine dining venue for couples, families, and businesses to celebrate special occasions. With special menus on holidays, wine events, and live music, Plateau has established a loyal clientele.

Oregon’s well-known Gerry Frank, author, travel writer, and food critic, named Plateau as one of his favorite food spots in Oregon.

Plateau is dedicated to providing outstanding food and exceptional beverage service. With table-side theatrics and creative cocktail presentations, guests are treated to an unforgettable sensory experience that brings both food and drinks to life.

The Wine Spectator’s Award of Excellence is a highly coveted honor and, in 2023, only 2,001 restaurants worldwide achieved this recognition.

Plateau is proud to be among the select few that have met the rigorous standards set by Wine Spectator, solidifying its position as a leading culinary destination in the Pacific Northwest.

Plateau is one of only two Wine Spectator award recipients within a 200-mile radius. The other is located in Walla Walla, a popular wine region in Washington.

Plateau is owned by the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation (CTUIR) and is only the second tribe-owned restaurant in Oregon to receive a Wine Spectator award.

For reservations and more information about Plateau, please visit www.wildhorseresort.com/ plateau or contact the restaurant directly at (541) 966-1610.

Moe’s wins coveted business prize, plans new venture

PENDLETON, Ore. - Tribal citizen Whitney Minthorn and business partner Moe Soeum took home the top prize last month in the highly competitive City of Pendleton Path to Success Business Plan Competition.

Sponsored by the Pendleton Development Commission, winners are awarded a $20,000 grant to turn their business dreams into reality.

Minthorn manages the marketing and branding for his and Soeum’s

popular restaurant, Moe Pho Noodles & Cafe. Their new venture, Moe’s Tea, will become a reality much sooner thanks to the grant. Located at 353 SE 1st in Pendleton, Moe’s Tea aims to be the town’s go-to destination for coffee and boba tea enthusiasts. Moe’s will offer both a drive-thru option and indoor and outdoor dining. The partners are expecting to create five full-time jobs and need eight or more part-time workers. The grand opening is planned for early September.

New RSV drug gets FDA approval ahead of cold season

AstraZeneca’s drug to reduce risk of infection in infants, children under 2

MATTHEW PERRONE

Associated Press

WASHINGTON (AP) - U.S. officials last month approved the first long-acting drug to protect babies and toddlers against a respiratory virus that sends tens of thousands of American children to the hospi-

tal each year.

The Food and Drug Administration approved the injection for infants and children up to 2 years old who face increased risk of severe RSV.

“Today’s approval addresses the great need for products to help reduce the impact of RSV disease on

children, families and the health care system” said FDA’s Dr. John Farley in a statement.

Last year, a surge in RSV cases flooded U.S. hospitals with wheezing children. There are no vaccines for babies yet, though Pfizer and other companies are working on them.

AstraZeneca’s drug, to be sold under the brand name Beyfortus, is a laboratory- made version of an antibody that helps the immune system fight off RSV. Under the FDA approval, babies - including preterm infants - can receive a single injection to protect against their first season of RSV, which typically lasts about five months. Children up to age 2 can receive another dose to protect them during their second season facing the virus.

Beyfortus, which will be marketed in the U.S. by Sanofi, is already approved in Canada, Europe and the U.K. Sanofi did not immediately announce the U.S. price of the treatment.

FDA officials approved the drug based on three studies showing Beyfortus reduced the risk of RSV infection between 70% and 75% among infants and children 2 and younger.

Advisers to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention will meet early next month to recommend exactly who should get the dr ug.

A similar antibody drug won FDA approval more than 20 years ago, but it’s only recommended for high-risk babies and requires monthly injections. Pediatricians say the drug is underutilized and they expect the longer-lasting effect of AstraZeneca`s shot to improve uptake.

In the U.S., about 58,000 children younger than 5 are hospitalized for RSV each year and several hundred die.

After decades of setbacks for RSV research, drugmakers have made big strides this year, launching the first vaccines against the virus. In May, the FDA approved two RSV vaccines for older adults from GlaxoSmithKline and Pfizer. In August, the FDA is expected to make a decision on approving Pfizer’s vaccine for pregnant women, with the aim of passing along protection to their newborns.

– The Associated Press Health and Science Department receives support from the Howard Hughes Medical Institute’s Science and Educational Media Group. The AP is solely responsible for all content.

The CTUIR Department of Natural Resources was established by resolution on April 7, 1982, in Resolution 82-28. Today the Department employs over 140 people and is one of the largest Tribal departments, excluding Wildhorse.

CTUIR youth participate in Wellness Warrior Camp

CTUIR YOUTH COUNCIL

GRAND RONDE, Ore. – The CTUIR Youth Council had the opportunity to attend the Native Wellness Warrior Camp in Grande Ronde, Oregon in June. The youth engaged in hands-on activities such as ceremonies, workshops, traditional games, and crafting to build skill development in being a leader for their community.

The camp also highlighted the

importance of recognizing healing opportunities, so they can take advantage of those tools to live a healthy well-balanced lifestyle.

According to the Native Wellness Institute, many of our young people are struggling and trying to find their identity and path. NWI is dedicated to giving Native youth the skills, confidence and self-esteem they will need to live —in a good way —in today’s world.

NWI’s youth leadership and athlet-

ic camps, academies and gatherings allow youth to make a “head to heart” connection and understand the “why” of the often negative behaviors they see and experience as well as learn how we can promote and maintain living by the “Warrior’s Spirit.”

NWI trainers have over twenty years of experience in hosting Native youth gatherings, trainings, workshops, mentoring and conferences. These youth-specific programs allow young people an opportunity to

share, grow, develop new skills, heal, meet new people, learn about other Native cultures and learn strategies to get and stay on a wellness path.

CTUIR youth not only found leaders within themselves this summer, but obtained this experience with other youth from Montana, Alaska, and Washington.

A big thank you to DCFS Staff for your continued support of offering these opportunities to our youth.

GOLF

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

clinics throughout the week. In addition, admission to tour events is free for everyone on Monday and Tuesday, with tickets starting as low as $5 a day and $20 for a five-day pass to attend the rest of the tournament. All children 11 and younger can attend the tournament for free all week when accompanied by an adult.

The Wildhorse Ladies Golf Classic is the only Epson Tour event to be held in Oregon this year. It is an official event on the LPGA qualifying tour, attracting top players from around the world as they vie for a chance to play on the professional circuit next season. In fact, more than 130 professional women golfers representing 40 countries will compete in Pendleton this summer, including Kim Kaufman, Min-G Kim, Dabin Lee, and Brianna Do.

“It’s exciting to be a part of growing the game by showcasing these impressive international athletes and the excitement of the LPGA right here in Oregon,” said George. “Throughout the week that the Epson Tour is here in town, we are providing opportunities for tribe members and local youth to meet and learn from these impressive women, as they reach for their own dreams to join the LPGA tour.”

The Epson Tour season includes 22 tournaments across the country from March through October, with $5 million in prize money at stake. This year, the purse for the 2023 Wildhorse Ladies Golf Classic is $200,000. The 2023 Wildhorse Ladies Golf Classic in Pendleton includes the Pro-Am Tournament, August 16-17, and the Ladies Golf Classic, August 18-20. A trophy presentation will be held immediately following the event’s final round on Sunday, August 20 at the 18th tee.

Visit wildhorseresort.com for tickets and event details.

2023 HAPPY CANYON REHEARSAL SCHEDULE

LARGE YEE HAW $ 14

FRIDAY, AUGUST 25 at 6:00 pm: COMPLETE PRACTICE FROM BEGINNING TO END

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 7 at 6:00 pm: COMPLETE DRESS REHEARSAL

• Costume check

• Spotlight practice – all livestock parts highly encouraged

• Participant passes will be distributed after you rehearse your part

If you plan to participate in Happy Canyon, please attend both practices. Any questions, call Becky Waggoner, Show Director, at 541-379-3106.

Thank you and On with the Show! Each of you is so appreciated!

Tamkaliks Celebration powwow results

Fancy Shawl 18 +

1. Teata Ellenwood – Pendleton

2. Acozjah Dion – Boise, ID

3. Felicia Two Ratchet, Harrah, WA

Fast & Fancy 18 +

1. Apollo Johnson, Warm Springs,

2. Brian George, Toppenish, WA

3. Logan Quaempts, Pendleton

Jingle Dance 18 +

1. Junee Picard, Lapwai, ID

2. Teata Ellenwood, Pendleton, OR

3. Acozjah Dion – Boise, ID

Grass Dance 18 +

1. Alex Meninick, Harrah, WA

2. Robert Tewawina, Lapwai, ID

3. Eric Broncheau, Pendleton, OR

Traditional Women (Adults)

1. Kola Shippentower, Pendleton

2. Suhryah G. Thompson, Pendleton

3. Lydia Skahan, Lapwai, ID

Traditional Men (Adults)

1. Jake Whiteplume, Lapwai, ID

2. Ahala Johnson, Orofino, ID

3. Kellen Joseph, Pendleton, OR

Traditional Senior Women

1. Carla George, Toppenish, WA

2. Pricilla Blackwolf, Toppenish, WA

3. Katrina Miller, Pendleton, OR

Traditional Senior Men

1. JT William, Arrow Junction, ID

2. Billy Herrera, Lapwai, ID

3. Phil Allen, Lapwai, ID

Traditional Girls (Junior)

1. Brees Van Pelt, Pendleton, OR

2. Cavell Samuels, Pendleton, OR

3. Ramona Whiteplume, Lapwai

Traditional Boys (Junior)

1. Seton Powakee, Lapwai, ID

2. Alex Allen, Caldesac, ID

3. Amario Tewee, Pendleton, OR

Traditional Girls (Teen)

1. Diamond Say, Pendleton, OR

2. Askew Tom, Warm Springs, OR

3. Manaia Wolf

Traditional Boys (Teen)

1. Herschel Williams, Kamiah, ID

2. Lewis Allen, Caldesac, ID

3. Hiyuum Nowland, Pendleton

Red Dress Special

1. Cavell Samuels, Lapwai, ID

2. Brees Van Pelt, Pendleton, OR

3. Demiyah Say, Pendleton, OR

4. Hannah Brown, Walla Walla, WA

5. Dazha Joseph, Pendleton, OR

All Around Men’s Special

1. Alex Meninick, Harrah, WA

2. Logan Quaempts, Pendleton

3. Robert Tewawina, Lapwai, ID

4. Wilber Oatman

Fancy Shawl & Jingle 17 under

1. Davi Jo Whitman, Lapwai, ID

2. Dazha Joseph, Pendleton, OR

3. Abi Kordatsky, Pilot Rock, OR

Fast/Fancy & Grass 17 under

1. Ian Mitchell, Toppenish, WA

2. Robert Tewawina Jr., Lapwai, ID

3. Vance Slockish, Lapwai, ID

Youth Council attends premier, speaks on film panel after

MISSION, Ore. – Acosia RedElk premiered her award-winning film “A Reflection of Life” to the CTUIR community at Wildhorse Cineplex July 13. The film is a documentary that illuminates how water issues are affecting Indigenous communities in the West. The film specifically focuses on the Umatilla, Yakima, and Warm Springs Reservations, as well as Standing Rock and Hopi Nation.

After the film, the CTUIR Youth Council, Nizhoni Toledo, Keyen Singer, and Lindsey Pasena-Littlesky were invited to speak on a panel alongside Wenix RedElk, to answer questions regarding our relation to water and how important water is to Native American communities.

“The film is so complex and rich and informative. Watching it, I cycled through a universe of emotions: rage, curiosity, energy, anxiety, puzzlement, ultimately reaching a feeling of powerful inspiration. A lot of what was underneath that final emotional response was hearing from members of the CTUIR Youth Council – both in the film and also on the live panel afterwards - who are smart, brave, fierce, strategic and clear-eyed about how water systems underpin their cultural framework. It was so powerful hearing them describe the deep interconnections between place and people and how the restoration of one is the restoration of the other, and how they see themselves and other CTUIR members and allies leading this work,” said Noah Leavitt, the Co-Director of the Career and Community Engagement Center at Whitman College.

CA ‘ YÁW HÍMIIN TÍIMININ 7 Year Memorial

CA ‘ YÁW HÍMIIN TÍIMININ 7 Year Memorial

JAN 26 1991 - SEPT 3 2016

JAN 26 1991 - SEPT 3 2016

NIXYÁAWII LONGHOUSE 26 AUGUST 2023 “STILL DANCING”

YOU CAME IN TO THE WORLD WITH LOVE WITH ALL THE POWERS FROM ABOVE YOU GAVE IT YOUR ALL WITH ALL YOUR SOUL ALWAYS REACHING FOR THE STARS DANCING IN THE CIRCLE NEAR AND FAR THAT’S WHO YOU ARE YOU SING YOUR SONG FOR ALL TO HEAR YOUR WORDS ARE MAGIC ALL LOVE NO FEAR YOU’RE THE ONE OUR NATIVE SON THE REZ WAY WAS YOUR WAY ALL THE WAY FOR THE REZ WAY FOR THE GOOD AND FOR THE BAD AND WE KNOW IT’S YOU YOU WILL ALWAYS BE TRUE WE HONOR YOU

WE HONOR YOU SIAAMAKS (RELATIVE) YOU’RE STILL DANCING YOU’RE STILL DANCING ALL OUR LOVE, ALL OUR RESPECT

In Memoriam

Frederick Jack Hart Jr.

Frederick Jack Hart Jr. was born July 7, 1949 at Grangeville. He was the son of Lorena Kipp Hart and Frederick Jack Hart Sr. Frederick attended Kooskia Grade school, and later attended school in the Dalles, Or., boarding schools at Chilocco and Chocho, Oklahoma. He then attended technical school at LCSC for appliance repair and wastewater management in Phoenix, Arizona. He joined the US Army 1968 and was stationed at Ft. Lewis and Ft. Riley. Left the Army in 1971 as Private First Class. He was married to Julie Wheeler, but later separated.

Frederick is survived by two daughters, Danica Hart and Elissa Hart, nine grandchildren and one great-grandchild. He passed away July 17, 2023.

Tyson William Lloyd

Tyson William Lloyd, 35 Pendleton died on Friday, July 21, 2023 at St. Alphonsus Medical Center in Nampa, Idaho. Tyson was born on June 30, 1988 in Pendleton, Oregon. A Dressing ceremony was held on Tuesday, July 25, 2023 at Burns Mortuary Chapel at 2:00 p.m. Mass of Christian Burial was on Wednesday, July 26, 2023 at St. Andrews Catholic Church at 9:30 a.m. the burial to followed at Agency Cemetery. Burns Mortuary of Pendleton oversaw funeral arrangements.

Sherry Linn Moffitt Ferguson

Sherry Linn Moffitt Ferguson, 59 of Hillsboro, Oregon died suddenly on Saturday, July 22, 2023. Sherry was born on April 10, 1964. A Dressing Ceremony was held on Wednesday, July 26, 2023 at Burns Mortuary Chapel at 2:00 p.m. Funeral Service were held on Thursday, July 27, 2023 at Tutuilla Church at 10:00 a.m. the burial to followed at Tutuilla Cemetery.

Thomas Andrew Pierre, Sr.

Thomas Andrew Pierre, Sr., of Pendleton, Oregon passed away on July 13, 2023, at his home. A viewing will be held July 17, 2023, from 6 to 8 pm at Bishop Funeral Home in Pendleton, Oregon. His funeral will be held on July 18, 2023, at 10 a.m. at Bishop Funeral Home with burial at Old Agency Cemetery. A dinner will be held at the Lighthouse Pentecostal Church following the burial located at 417 NW 21st Street, Pendleton, Oregon.

Tom was a man of God who loved his family, especially his grandchildren. His second love was Sasquatch. He has been known to dress up as Sasquatch and go hang out at the Longhouse for celebrations. All the kids are always in awe of him. He was a kind man who had an infectious smile and hearty laugh.

Public Notice

Leasing of Indian Trust Land for Pasture

Umatilla Indian Reservation

Tom was born in St. Ignatius, Montana on June 7, 1952, he is the son of Pete Pierre and Lita Lavadour. He is survived by his wife of 51 years Diane L. Pierre, his two sons Tommy Pierre, Jr., and Shannon), Lowell Pierre, his two daughters Atana Pierre and Sarah Pierre Najera.

Tom has sixteen grandchildren, four great grandchildren and so many nieces and nephews we would never be able to count.

Tom has always been there for the children. His Grandson said we all know how much grandpa loved us and he was always there for us. He has had an impact on the lives of many.

He was preceded in death by his Father Pete Pierre, his Mother Lita Lavadour, his brother David Taylor, and sisters Elizabeth Ann “Toni” Bratlie and Lita Bates. He is survived by his brothers Lloyd

Commander, Khris Middleton, Victor Bates, and Virgil Bates. Sisters Matilda Pierre, Marcella Jim, Valerie Bates and Vickey Bates.

Tom was raised for a time by Alvin and Annamae Rothell, whom he referred to as Mom and Dad. He lived on a Boys Ranch, and this is where he was introduced to the Lord. He was baptized in Jesus Name and filled with the Holy Ghost! He shared his testimony to many.

Tom was employed by Harris Pine Mill, Oregon State Hospital, Union Pacific Railroad, and retired from Certified Personnel and Construction in 2021.

Tom was honored to serve the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation as Vice Chairman of the General Council and was a member of the Housing Commission.

Sealed bids for pasture leases on the Umatilla Indian Reservation for not more than a 10 year term beginning January 1, 2024 and expiring December 31, 2033, unless otherwise specified and determined by the Umatilla Agency, will be received at the office of the Superintendent, Bureau of Indian Affairs, Umatilla Agency, P.O. Box 520 or 46807 B Street, Pendleton, OR 97801 until 10:00 A.M. Pacific Standard Time, September 18, 2023. There will be a public opening and reading of the bids. Following the opening and evaluation of all bids, those items attracting two or more bids will be contacted for oral auction by persons submitting sealed bids only. Bid forms and other pertinent information regarding bidding are available at the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation Range, Ag and Forestry Program Office, Telephone: (541)429-7224.

THANK YOU

As we said our final goodbye to atway Thomas Pierre, Sr. we are thankful to those that helped prepare for the services and burial. We are appreciative for those that attended the services, as well. We are deeply grateful for all the of speakers, singers and those that prepared the beautiful meal for us to share after the services. We were also deeply moved by all the flowers, cards and gifts that were received. Thank you for being there for us in one of our darkest hours. We appreciate your support now and, in the days ahead.

May God bless you, Diane Pierre and Family

Job opening: Digital Navigator

Employer: Cayuse Native Solutions

Pay: $20.00 - $21.40 per hour

Location: Work From Home

Job listing: CayuseHoldings.com/jobs

Join the Cayuse Holdings team! We have dozens of jobs open each month. Work on the Reservation, remotely from your home, across the US or overseas. Equal Opportunity Employer. See the complete list of job openings at www.cayuseholdings.com.

Current Cayuse Holdings job opportunities include College Student Apprentice, Business Development Director (federal markets), Customer Support Agent (remote), Help Desk (Pendleton), Service Desk Agent (remote), Study Coordinator (Honolulu) and Desktop IT Technician on or near Indian Reservations across the US.

WRC JUNE Employees of the Month

new and efficient processes to help make the day-to-day tasks in AP flow more smoothly.

Supervisor of the month: Nicole McLouth

AP would like to nominate Nicole McLouth for Supervisor of the Month. Nicole has a big job in Finance. Although we’ve worked closely together for a long time, as of January 2023, she also took on being the new Supervisor for the AP Dept. Nicole has advocated and spent many hours working with AP on

Nicole has been spearheading the digitization of our AP processes by seeking, researching, and helping implement Beanworks as our new and improved AP software. Many may not know, but this could be a full-time job on its own. There is a lot of work that goes into such a big change. Her efforts on this project will help benefit Wildhorse, ATP, and Hamley’s on many levels. We especially are grateful for her efforts and diligence in pushing this project forward. This is a BIG deal!

In addition to managing AP, new software, NGOP review meetings, Finance committee meetings, meetings on meetings, all the deadlines and budget stuff she does, Nicole fields questions or concerns

Support EE of the month: Judy Pace, Hotel

I have taken worn and tattered uniforms to Judy, and she shines them right up. Judy can flip a collar, switch the sleeves, adjust the zippers, and make eyelets for the radio lead wires to fit through like a magician. Her work is dependable and efficient with how much attention she gives to detail. I appreciate everything Judy does for the Security Department.

- Nominated by Elizabeth Star

from WRC entities and their related departments. She takes time to brainstorm ideas or work through issues that arise. If she can’t provide an answer, she ALWAYS follows up.

Nicole is a dependable leader at Wildhorse. She’s driven and is always looking for new ways to make work fun and enjoyable.

With the level of responsibilities Nicole has, she maintains a high level of integrity and a good attitude. Her attention to detail is impeccable. She’s a good example of what a Supervisor should strive to be. Nicole is a huge asset to Wildhorse and we hope you consider her for the next Supervisor of the Month. She truly deserves it.

- Nominated by Jennifer & Jeni

Frontline EE of the month: Alex Brooks, Keno Writer/Runner

Alex recently switched from swing shift so I don’t see him a lot anymore but when I did see him, his guest service is immaculate. He makes sure that every single person that is playing keno gets the best service by calling them a beverage server if needed or calling a slot attendant or even just taking their ticket and replaying it for them so they don’t need to get out of their seat. He does it especially for the elderly guests, and that to me shows excellent guest service.

- Nominated by Jayce King