Confederated Umatilla Journal 01-2018

A Christmas Celebration pow wow at the Mission Longhouse Dec. 22-23 featured a switch dance special sponsored by Shawna and Enoch Crane (center). Winners were, from left, Bryson Bronson, Kaiwin Clements, Heaven Wallsee, and Alana Bevis. More on page 11A.

Marie “Butch” Dick waves her glow sticks to locals during the Christmas Light Parade on Dec. 20. For photos and story turn to page 24A.

Moe Phở will be opening in Pendleton at the end of January or early February.

For more details turn to page 21A.

Confederated Umatilla Journal

2 Sections, 48 pages / Publish date Jan. 3, 2017

The monthly newspaper of the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation ~ Pendleton, Oregon January 2018

Section

A

Volume 26, Issue 1

Yellowhawk at risk if BM 101 fails By the CUJ

MISSION – If Ballot Measure 101 fails, hundreds of tribal members will not be eligible for health care insurance under the Oregon Health Plan (Medicaid) and may need to go back to a “life or limb” coverage, according to Sandra Sampson, interim Executive Director at Yellowhawk Tribal Health Center.

Ballot Measure 101 is a referral to Oregon voters to approve a plan to pay for the Medicaid budget and stabilize health insurance premiums.

Ballots for the Jan. 23 As many as special election should have 900 people been hitting mailboxes as the CUJ went to press on Jan. 4. served at This summer, Democrats Yellowhawk in the Oregon Legislature could be pushed through a bill providing temporary fundimpacted ing for the state’s Medicaid if 101 is system. Three Republican voted lawmakers (Julie Parrish of West Linn, Sal Esquivel of down.

Medford and Cedric Hayden of Roseburg) decided they wanted to refer parts of the law to voters. They led a petition campaign to gather signatures and are now urging voters to vote “No” on the measure, which would repeal those parts of the state’s Medicaid law.

Those against Measure 101 have said they’re not against low-income healthcare, but rather looking

Defending their title

Ballot Measure 101 on page 23A

Milan Schimmel is one of four senior returners on Nixyaawii Community School’s defending state Class 1A championship basketball team. The squad had won 38 games in a row at the end of 2017. For more turn to sports in Section 2.

CUJ photo/Lennox Lewis

Meet and greet Folks gathered Dec. 23 at the Pendleton Convention Center to meet the 2018 Happy Canyon Princesses and to gift them items. The room was packed with people from both the Mission and Pendleton communities. Many in the audience were found taking photos with their phones. For story and more photos turn to page 18A. CUJ photo/Dallas Dick

Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation 46411 Timine Way Pendleton, OR 97801

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CUJ News BOT member challenges Election Code actions By the CUJ

MISSION – The Board of Trustees on Dec. 11 rejected an Election Commission recommendation to change a code that directs the way absentee ballots are supposed to be counted.

For decades the Election Commission has been counting absentee ballots cast by voters who have not followed instructions in violation of Election Code 3.13B, which states: “The Election Commission shall not count votes for an elected position or for other matter(s) on the ballot where the Qualified Voter has Election failed to follow Commission the ballot instructions in voting answers for that position December or matter.”

“It’s safe to say CUJ editorial, we’ve [the ElecRadford’s tion Commission] op-ed on never followed that rule,” Tribal page 7 Attorney Dan Hester told the Board of Trustees at a work session Dec. 6.

Instead, when a ballot is improperly marked, the Election Commission has been determining the “intent” of the voter.

The instructions say voters should draw a line connecting two dots next to the name of the candidate they choose.

However, sometimes a voter circles a name, or marks an “x” or makes an arrow to indicate his or her selection. In other situations, a person with a physical impairment may not be able to draw the line.

Election Commission members who are able to “discern intent” have been counting some votes while eliminating others.

This practice triggered a challenge from BOT vice-chair candidate Shana Radford after she and incumbent vicechair Jeremy Wolf tied in the Nov. 14 election. Radford’s challenge was denied because the Election Commission said it was filed too late. A run-off election to determine a winner is scheduled for Feb. 12.

It was that upcoming run-off election that created the urgency behind the amendment recommendation from the

Election Commission, but the Board of Hester answered: “[The rule] says Trustees, by a 4-3 vote (Wolf abstained) what is says Sally. The Election Commiswasn’t ready to move that fast. sion has never strictly followed that rule.”

Sally Kosey, newly elected at-large However, Hester pushed, “We want to BOT member, went after Hester, who look forward, to be consistent with what was carrying the recommended resolu- has historically been done. I’m urging the tion for the Election Commission. Hester Board to adopt this rule to be consistent met with the Board at the work session, with what we have done in the past.” but Hester was And to do that, on his own at he explained, the the Dec. 11 BOT Board needs to Kosey said: meeting. adopt the new ‘I think Kosey quoted rules which it’s illegal the code in queswould utilize the tion and Hester state of Washingand not acknowledged ton’s “Voter Inappropriate. that the Election tent – Statewide Commission has Standards on There is not strictly folWhat is a Vote” nothing lowed that rule reference guide. in here in “every single BOT Secretary election for as far Kat Brigham said [Election back as I can reshe found herself Code] about intent. member.” conflicted.

Hester said “I have conIt’s clear you need to “not an insignificerns … how to follow instructions … cant” number of provide tribal votes would not members the op[the votes] should not have been countportunity to vote have been counted ... ed over the past when the Election It’s clearly a violation many elections if Commission is not for the Elecdoing something … If I read that policy tion Commission that is not right.

I can’t find anything “discerning” the We can go back intent of voters. a long ways but about intent … does the Asked Kosey, we can’t correct Commission have that “Has the Board those elections. kind of power?’ been aware all We have to start that time?” moving forward.

Hester said We can fix it so it candidates for chair were aware during does not happen again.” a recount.

Hester summed it up with three op“They saw the issue in play and knew tions: the instructions were not always fol1 - Reject the resolution and keep 3.13b lowed to a T … the fair intent rule was and not count ballots when voters don’t accepted,” Hester said. follow instructions; Kosey said: “I think it’s illegal and 2 - Change the rules and continue to not appropriate. There is nothing in “discern intent” as has been done for the here about intent. It’s clear you need to last couple of decades, or: follow instructions … [the votes] should 3 - Put it off and analyze it before connot have been counted. I don’t think the sidering the issue again.

Election Commission should count those Early in the meeting, at-large BOT votes. It’s clearly a violation … If I read member Aaron Ashley questioned why that policy I can’t find anything about the Board should consider the “influintent … does the Commission have that ence” of one person – Radford – with kind of power?” regards to this tribal election.

Confederated Umatilla Journal

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Fax 541-429-7005 Email cuj@ctuir.org www.ctuir.org

Ashley said he found it “somewhat disturbing” that a candidate (Radford) brought to the Election Commission the Washington Secretary of State “Voter Intent” guide. “To sit in the meeting is her right, but the perception is not good,” Ashley said. “I can’t see how one person can come in with a document from another state and expect … influence a tribal commission.”

Brigham and at-large member Rosenda Shippentower agreed that it didn’t matter who provided the information.

“What we’re doing is trying to correct something,” Shippentower said. “Regardless of who is suggesting the use of this, the Election Commission came forth with a recommendation; they brought us a recommendation and we generally approve.

“Shame on everybody,” Shippentower continued. “We’re trying to correct this.

What is going to change between now and next month?”

Woodrow Star, also an at-large BOT member, agreed the Election Commission has been doing something wrong for a long time and likely caused harm in past elections.

“We need to go ahead and vote against it or for it. This is moving forward with a fix,” he said. “They did something wrong.

This issue is to be prepared for the next election. What they did is a separate issue.”

The motion to approve the new language that would change the way abentee ballots are counted was made by Brigham and seconded by Star. Brigham, Star and Shippentower voted in favor of the motion.

Voting against the motion were Ashley, Kosey, General Council Chair William Sigo and BOT Treasurer Doris Wheeler.

Vice-Chair Jeremy Wolf abstained.

Hester asked the Board what it would like the Election Commission to do now.

“The bottom line,” said Kosey, “is don’t count the votes if they don’t follow the instructions.”

Brigham amended the resolution to include only the portion that called upon the Election Commission and the Enrollment Department to coordinate on addresses for absentee ballots. That motion passed 6-1-1 with Ashley voting no and Wolf abstaining.

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Confederated Umatilla Journal

January 2018

CUJ News Croswell resigns after 23 years Leaves seven months after BOT eliminated Deputy ED position

By Wil Phinney of the CUJ

MISSION – Debra Croswell resigned Dec. 6, 2017 after more than 23 years of employment – the last 15 as Deputy or Interim Executive Director – for the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation (CTUIR).

Croswell stayed on as Interim ED for seven months after the position of Deputy ED, a job she had held for nearly 14 years, was eliminated in May by the CTUIR Board of Trustees.

She started a new job Jan. 2 as Chief of Staff to Dawn Hagen, Director of Compliance at Cayuse Technologies, a company owned by the CTUIR. Croswell was hired in August of 1994 as the Tribes’ first public affairs officer.

And, true to that first PR job, it was revival of the Confederated Umatilla Journal and establishment of KCUW FM radio station she counts among Debra Croswell her three most memorable achievements. The third is her role on the design development team for Nixyaawii Government Center.

The low-power radio station is one of her “proudest accomplishments,” Croswell said.

It was literally a hands-on experience building the station from the ground up.

“I’d never soldered in my life,” she laughed.

She remembered trying to stay dry under a tarp during a thunder storm on a Friday night at the FM antennae near Cayuse when the switch was flipped to the KCUW studio in a shop room behind Wildhorse Casino.

“We could hear on the test radio. It was one of the coolest things,” she said.

Working to design NGC was also a “cool project.”

“It’s had its issues like any building,” Croswell said, noting the 2012 air-quality complaints, “but it’s running efficiently now. We get tons of compliments, it’s amazing.”

She mentioned the building’s state-of-the-art records vault, which “protects tribal assets” but is “not something people know about.”

When Croswell was hired almost two dozen years ago, Wildhorse Casino was under construction and salmon restoration was big news in the Northwest.

At that time, Board of Trustees Chair Don Sampson and CTUIR Executive Director Gary George were the movers and shakers on the Umatilla Indian Reservation.

In addition to promoting the casino and salmon

recovery, Croswell was charged with reviving the CUJ. “The Tribe was just starting to grow. We still had a tiny work force with less than 150 total employees,” Croswell recalled on one of her final days in the office.

“We didn’t have financial resources. We were a different organization back then. Very lean, dinky compared to now,” she said.

Croswell remembered her first production of the CUJ with Randall Minthorn, who had published the CUJ periodically from his post at the Tribal Employment Rights Office (TERO). Before computerized pagination, cutting and pasting was accomplished with hot wax and Exacto-blades.

“It was cool, that first monthly,” Croswell said. “But I became quickly aware I wasn’t going to be able to do it alone so the Board built in funding to hire an editor.”

Seven years later in February of 2002, when Dave Tovey resigned (for the first time) as CTUIR Executive Director, the BOT called Croswell into the Board Room and asked her to be interim executive director.

“It completely took me by surprise,” Croswell said.

“I was a young employee; I didn’t have any executive level experience but they had faith. Les Minthorn (treasurer) was the guy driving that process. Gary Burke was chair. They asked me so I did it; I didn’t know what I was getting into.”

Ten months later Croswell found it to be “too much.”

She asked the Board to appoint the late Rick Gay. “I thought I was in over my head,” Croswell admitted.

But a year later, then-Executive Director Don Sampson enlisted Croswell’s assistance. He created a position and asked her to take on “right hand” deputy duties.

From 2003 to 2010, Croswell served as both CTUIR Communications Director and Deputy Executive Director.

Under Sampson, executive duties were not split out.

Croswell described her responsibilities as a “support role” and often served as the acting executive director in Sampson’s absence.

Sampson left in 2010 and the Board called upon Croswell to serve as interim ED. At that point Croswell had several years working as the deputy ED. “I was better equipped than the first time I served as Interim ED in 2002 and when asked by the Board, I served for almost a year before Dave was hired again in April of 2011,” Croswell said.

Upon hiring Dave Tovey, the Board wanted to supervise two executives who would share the workload of overseeing the tribal government. Under the separated executive director responsibilities, Tovey supervised six departments; Croswell nine. Neither supervised the other, but worked as a team to guide the tribe, Croswell said.

In addition to the Deputy ED responsibilities, Croswell continued to perform the communications duties.

In 2013, the Board decided they wanted Croswell to

True to her first PR job, it was revival of the Confederated Umatilla Journal and establishment of KCUW FM radio station that Croswell counts among her three most memorable achievements. The third is her role on the design development team for Nixyaawii Government Center. focus solely on the executive duties and provided funding in the budget to create a full-time Communications Director job that was filled by Chuck Sams.

Since Tovey left again in February of 2017, as the Interim ED Croswell had been supervising all 15 departments plus an executive assistant.

“A lot of the department directors are very experienced, but they still need guidance and feedback from a supervisor,” Croswell said. “Supervising 16 people is a huge load for one person and to do it effectively is a tall order. Dave and I each had an area of responsibility and worked as a team. It’s much more feasible to be an effective leader when you’re not spread so thin.”

The Board has appointed Chuck Sams as the Interim Executive Director, effective Dec. 28.

An Executive Director Hiring Committee was appointed by the Board in June, but has made no announcement about progress on filling CTUIR’s top administrative position. The Hiring Committee includes BOT members Rosenda Shippentower, Jeremy Wolf, and Kat Brigham, plus staff Kathryn Burke, Naomi Stacy, Gary George and Brad Spencer.

In her new position at Cayuse Technologies, Croswell will assist Hagen, who oversees IT, facilities and human resorces.

“I’m excited,” Croswell said. “It’s a lot of the stuff I do now, but I’ll have to carry on in a corporate environment. I think a lot of skills will transfer over well.”

Croswell said she hopes to bring some “homegrown experience” to Cayuse Technologies. She believes her nearly two dozen years of working in tribal government can be a valuable asset as the young company continues to grow.

Board appoints Sams as Interim Executive Director MISSION – Chuck Sams has been assigned the duties of Interim Executive Director for the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation.

The CTUIR Board of Trustees named Sams to the position following the Dec. 6 resignation of Debra Croswell, whose last day on the job was Dec. 27 Croswell was the Tribe’s Deputy Executive Director but had been serving as

January 2018

Interim Executive Director since Dave Tovey’s resignation in February.

Croswell has accepted a position with Cayuse Technologies as Chief of Staff for the Chief Compliance Officer, Dawn Hagen.

In a CTUIR news release, Gary Burke, Chairman of the BOT, said, “Debra has served her Tribal government admirably.

Over the past twenty plus years she has

served as the Public Information Officer, Public Affairs Manager, CUJ Publisher, Communications Director, Deputy Executive Director and Interim Executive Director. We wish her well in her new endeavor.”

Sams has served in a number of executive positions in both the non-profit and for-profit sectors regionally and nationally over the past 25 years. He has worked

Confederated Umatilla Journal

for the CTUIR over the past five years as the Environmental Health Officer/ Planner, Communications Director and Interim Deputy Executive Director.

Sams will serve in this interim capacity until the BOT hires an Executive Director.

The hiring process and search for a new Executive Director is underway and following the policies for recruitment and review, according to the news release.

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CUJ News

NCS recognizes First National Honor Society students

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Nixyaawii Community School recognized its first National Honor Society members in a ceremony at the Longhouse on the Umatilla Indian Reservation on Dec. 15. Honored were, from left, seniors Milan Schimmel, Kaitlynn Melton and EllaMae Looney; juniors Ermia Butler, Deven Barkley, Dazon Sigo and Austin Ancheta; sophomores Mick Schimmel, Lark Moses, Tyanna VanPelt, Susie Patrick, Kylie Mountainchief and Cloe McMichael. Thomas Morning Owl, back to camera, led the group in their NHS oath. The NHS is the nation’s premier organization established to recognize outstanding high school students.

More than just an honor roll, NHS serves to recognize those students who have demonstrated excellence in the areas of scholarship, service, leadership, and character. These characteristics have been associated with membership in the organization since its beginning in 1921. Today, it is estimated that more than one million students participate in NHS activities. NHS chapters are found in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, many U.S. territories, and Canada. Chapter membership not only recognizes students for their accomplishments, but challenges them to develop further through active involvement in school activities and community service.

CUJ photo/Dallas Dici

Confederated Umatilla Journal

January 2018

CUJ News

Recycling rejected China’s plastics ban means milk jugs, etc., now go to the landfill

By Wil Phinney of the CUJ

MISSION – The irony of Oregon recycling is as obvious as a broken electric fan tossed in among milk jugs in the green metal bin in the parking lot at Mission Market.

“Everybody is so blinded that Oregon’s so wonderful,” said Mike McHenry, owner of Pendleton Sanitary Service. “We’ve been sending our crap for 20 years to China.”

And guess what?

China doesn’t want it anymore.

For several reasons, China announced that as of Jan. 1, it would no longer be importing 24 different kinds of solid waste for recycling, including mixed plastics like milk jugs and empty butter ‘When containers. you tell As a result of China’s decision, people the Tribal Environmental Recovery Facility on the Umatilla Indian Reswe don’t ervation – like Pendleton Sanitary recycle Service and other recycling facilities in Oregon – will no longer accept or plastics collect plastic containers. The plastic anymore recycling bins at Mission Market their jaws and Pendleton’s plastic bins near Fallen Field at the Transfer Station drop.’ on the west end of Pendleton will - Bonnie Burke, be removed. who retired in Those containers will now go into December as garbage cans and eventually Finley director at TERF. Butte Landfill at Arlington.

Oregonians will still be able to redeem beer, water and soft-drink bottles for a dime. And in 2018, the Oregon Bottle Bill expands to include nearly all beverage bottles. That means empty bottles that contained coffee, tea, hard cider, fruit juice, coconut water, kombucha and other drinks can be redeemed for 10 cents. Not included in the expansion are wine and distilled spirits, milk, infant formula and meal replacements.

But Oregonians’ inability to recycle other plastic flies in the face of this state’s environmental education efforts over the last three decades.

“When you tell people we don’t recycle plastics anymore their jaws drop,” said Bonnie Burke, who retired in December as director at TERF. “It’s hard to tell them especially when you’ve educated them all these years what to do, the right way.”

Until recently, China has been the world’s largest importer of recycled paper and plastics, including most of Oregon’s mixed paper and plastics, according to the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality.

Oregon and other western states shipped recyclable material to Seattle where it was packed on and shipped back to China, which had used the vessels to export

January 2018

An electric fan was among the plastic items placed in the recycling bin at Mission Market in late December, before the Tribal Environmental Recovery Facility was forced to stop collecting plastic. China decided to ban certain recyclable materials, including plastics, primarily because they were showing up contaiminated from the United States.

“made in China” goods to the United States.

The government of China four years ago began reducing the amount of garbage it allowed being imported through its “Green Fence” policy. Then in March of 2017, China enacted “National Sword 2017,” which imposed severe restrictions on the import of recyclable materials.

Among the reasons for the ban, according to the DEQ, are poor quality of materials received; pollution caused by poor recycling practices and small-scale operations;

Confederated Umatilla Journal

protection of health and safety; and the need for China to develop its own domestic recovery system for recyclable materials.

“The government of China doesn’t want to serve as the dumping grounds for the rest of the world,” said Peter Spendelow, Solid Waste Policy Analyst at DEQ. Kristan Mitchell, Executive Director of Oregon Refuse & Recycling Association in Salem, said China’s ban may Recycling on page 22A

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CUJ Editorials

The chill of December

Old Man Winter dropped seven inches of snow to provide a White Christmas in the region and icy temperature to keep it around a few days before giving in to warmer weather and rain before New Year’s Day. The Umatilla River took on a deep-freeze look.

Vote YES on Ballot Measure 101 for Tribal health care

H

ave you checked your mail box today? If you are registered to vote in Oregon, you will get a ballot in the mail that will impact CTUIR tribal members both young and old.

This is a special election with only one question Ballot Measure 101.

A “yes” vote will keep funding in place for the Oregon Health Plan through a tax on healthcare organizations and a “no” vote will force reductions in health coverage for low income populations and other budgets like school funding.

If you don’t vote and the word doesn’t get out about the cuts that will be made, then hundreds of CTUIR tribal members will lose their current health care coverage under the Oregon Health Plan and funding for Nixyaawii Community School and schools statewide will be cut.

Yellowhawk Tribal Health Center may not be able to pay for elders’ Medicaid Part B, or may need to limit participation. In addition, Yellowhawk will lose third-party revenue, which could mean annual losses as high as $3 million.

Why are you being asked whether your friends,

CUJ Confederated Umatilla Journal

neighbors and maybe even you should continue a coat until you figure out the best way to pay for it.

When you open that ballot and pick up your pen, getting healthcare coverage? Well, Medicaid funding you have the power to make a choice. We elected is complicated. It’s a series of rules and dollars that come from both the Federal and State government. state legislators to do their job. They did it. It might not be perfect but this ballot measure is your chance So last year, the Legislature did the heavy lifting to figure out how to pay for it. The plan passed the to say finish the job and deliver healthcare.

Measure 101 saves House and the Senate. everyone money: patients, But, a few legislators decided they didn’t hospitals, insurers, and Vote “yes” to say our Tribal Oregonians. like the plan and you should decide. Now It is even supported by members and especially our the very healthcare organivoters are being asked to give their stamp of elders and our children deserve zations that will be taxed.

If it fails, Oregon could approval. adequate health care coverage. lose up to $5 billion in fedOpponents will say there are better ways to eral matching funds and one fund Medicaid coverin four Oregonians will be at age. That may be true, but real harm will be done to risk of losing health coverage.

Send Oregon a message. real people if voters send this plan back to the drawVote “yes” to say our Tribal members and espeing table. cially our elders and our children deserve adequate This is like telling your kid that you bought him a health care coverage. winter coat, but you’re having second thoughts about how you paid for it, so your kid will have to go without ~ CUJ

46411 Timine Way Pendleton, OR 97801 541-429-7005 FAX 541-429-7005 e-mail: cuj@ctuir.org www.ctuir.org

Interim Publisher: Jane Hill CUJ staff: Wil Phinney, Editor Miranda Vega Rector, Reporter/Photographer Dallas Dick, Freelance Photographer Lennox Lewis, Communication Trainee

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$15 per year or $28 for two years.

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Confederated Umatilla Journal

January 2018

CUJ Op-Ed/Columns Election Commission responds to critics

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he Election Commission was criticized in This is more problematic for absentee voters. the December CUJ by a CUJ editorial and a Those who vote by absentee ballot are sent inletter submitted by a Board of Trustee (BOT) structions, a ballot, an envelope for the ballot, and candidate [Shana Radford]. Both claim there were another envelope addressed to the Election Commisirregularities in the Commission’s conduct of, and sion with a space for the voter’s return address. The ballot count in, the recent Tribal election, voter MUST sign the back with the candidate’s letter claiming the side of this envelope. If the Commission’s decision to accept or reject voter does not sign the outerballots “were subject to whim.” Nothing most envelope, the absentee The Commission is further from the truth. ballot is invalidated and takes seriously its The Commission takes seriously its that ballot is not opened nor responsibility to responsibility to have an election process counted. that is fair, efficient and maximizes Tribal All valid absentee ballots have an election member participation. The Commission returned by Election Day process that welcomes this opportunity to respond to are opened and the inner is fair, efficient the recent editorial and letter and explain envelope is removed. The what we do and why.

Commission then opens and maximizes The Election Code states that the Comall inner envelopes and reTribal member mission shall not count votes where the moves the ballots which are voter has failed to comply with ballot fed into the vote counting participation. instructions. This rule is not a problem machine. for the majority of the Tribal electorOf the 161 absentee balate who cast their votes in person at the lots that were signed, timely NGC polling place. When a tribal member casts their received and counted, 12 were only partially counted vote in person, the ballot is placed into the vote count- due to an over vote in one of the races. The Election ing machine. If the voter did not follow instructions, Code prohibits the Commission from counting votes the machine rejects the ballot, which is then marked where the voter has failed to follow ballot instruc“spoiled.” That voter is given a new ballot to be cast tions. The Election Commission takes this to mean in compliance with the instructions. Using this prothat, in order to maximize Tribal member particicess, the Commission is able to correct ballot probpation, only the race that the voter failed to follow lems individually, for the approximately 80 percent of instructions was eliminated, not the whole ballot. voters who vote in person.

These 12 ballots were counted - with the exception of

Letter to the Editor Kosey answers eligibility questions To the editor, To those tribal members who have questioned my eligibility to run for office, I would like to put it to rest.

I am an enrolled member of the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation. I reside within the boundaries of the Umatilla Indian Reservation as defined in Article 1 of the Treaty of 1855.

This was cleared by the Election Commission prior to running for the Board.

Section 3.06 B of the CTUIR Election Code, “Qualifications for Holding Office,” states that “any enrolled member of the Confederated Tribes over 18 years of age may hold office on the General Council or the Board of Trustees; Provided, that no person shall be eligible to be an officer of the General Council or a member or officer of the Board of Trustees unless that person resides within the boundaries of the Umatilla Indian Reservation as defined in Article 1 of the Treaty of 1855 at the time the elected official is sworn into office as provided in section 3.17 (B) and (C) of this Code and throughout the course of his/her term.”

Hope this resolves all those who are questioning my eligibility as a Board member.

Sally Kosey At-Large Member, CTUIR Board of Trustees

the race(s) that were over voted. Additionally, there were 11 ballots where the voter used a pencil to mark the ballot instead of a pen (as the ballot instructions require). The Election Commission counted these ballots, following the practice of prior Election Commissions.

The CUJ letter also complained about the time requirements for filing a complaint alleging an election dispute. The Code requires that the complaint must be filed with the Commission no later than the day after the Tribal General Election or Special Election.

The General Election was on Nov. 14. The complaint was received on Nov. 16 – two days after the Election.

The Election Commission’s only recourse was to follow the Code and dismiss the complaint.

The Election Commission’s position is that its conduct of the 2017 General Election did not violate any provision of the Indian Civil Rights Act. The Election Commission retains all ballots cast at the Tribal polling place and all absentee ballots and envelopes until such time as any election dispute is resolved.

The Election Commission will continue working with the BOT to review and address issues to improve the election process.

The Election Commission thanks all Tribal members that participated in the General Election. With the Special Election scheduled Feb. 12, the Commission reminds voters to follow instructions when casting your ballot. If you vote absentee, please remember to sign the outer envelope.

Respectfully, Tribal Election Commission

Christmas Eve at Tutuilla Presbyterian Church

By Tom Hebert

As you can imagine some old bachelors like me who live alone and have no family often have a lonely Thanksgiving and Christmas.

But this year, rather than dinner at Wildhorse’s Plateau Restaurant, I had Christmas dinner with good friends.

And, happily, I spent my Christmas Eve at the Tutuilla Presbyterian Church, which I’ve been doing since 2006. As always, I sat with chiefs Jesse Jones and Bill Burke, and Douglas Minthorn, my landlord for many years.

Some old friends greet me, which is nice, and as always the service was wonderful. It began with Pastor Lloyd Commander’s saxophone solo, which was followed by No’alana Malumaleumu also playing a saxophone.

Then there were several Christmas songs sung by the congregation (Silent Night and Jingle Bells and We Are One in the Spirit). This was followed by Lewis May on guitar accompanying his wife Amy in three songs.

Next, the congregation sang a Umatilla song,

God Be With You, reading the lyrics from the booklet we were given as we entered the chapel.

That song I sat out. But featured was an Indian youth choir lead by Thomas Morning Owl singing several Christmas songs in the Umatilla language. They were an absolute delight.

As is the lovely chapel itself. Over the years the interior nave and sanctuary have been totally transformed into one of the finest in the area.

Pastor Lloyd Commander’s closing thoughts from the program: “The baby Jesus, is actually our Creator, Savior, Lord, Healer, deliverer, forgiver, and our medicine and has come to help us!”

But, for me, the highlight is always the “Passing the Peace of Christ” when everyone stands up and either shakes hands or hug their relatives and friends.

There are some memories that you never want to lose.

Tom Hebert is a horseman who has lived on the Umatilla Indian Reservation since 1998.

The CUJ welcomes letters to the editor as a way to foster community dialogue on issues that impact the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation. Letters should be 400 words or less. Email to cuj@ctuir.org by the news deadline. Deadlines appear each month on Page 2A and 6A, as well as on the CUJ page at ctuir.org.

January 2018

Confederated Umatilla Journal

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CUJ Almanac Obituaries Patricia A. McCloud Kalama On Nov. 10, 2017, Patricia A. McCloud Kalama, Walla WallaPuyallup, passed away peacefully at her home in Warm Springs, Oregon.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Andrew and Edith McCloud.

Patricia was a very loving and giving wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt and friend, always greeting you with a hug or a handshake along with a smile.

She is survived by her husband, Larson E. Kalama Sr.; daughter Bridget Kalama; sons Carl M. Kalama Sr., Larson E. Kalama Jr.; brothers Andy McCloud II, Michael McCloud, Kenneth McCloud, and Raymond McCloud Sr.; sisters Billie McGee, Norma EagleSpeaker, Marcella EagleSpeaker, Gail Hernandez, Angeline Totus, Rosaline Johnson and Maiselle Altaha; and many grandchildren and greatgrandchildren.

Cynthia Jean Bachman Parr July 5, 1940 – Dec. 20, 2017 Cindy was a “water person” and thoroughly enjoyed living on the Eastern Shore of Maryland with her husband, Wallace Parr. Cindy was an energetic advocate for nature, and participated for many years in Kent Island politics on behalf of the environment. Cindy had on occasion enjoyed visiting Kent Island United Methodist Church and Living Water Lutheran Church when her health allowed attendance, and truly enjoyed her friends from “potluck” group, (Helene and Jerry, Shirlene and Walter, Herb), the neighborhood (Mary Ellen Shirk, Mary Kerr, Terri Morton, Anne Phelps), the Methodist Church (Sherrie Kogok), the Political Action Committee, and others.

Cindy leaves behind three daughters and two stepsons and their families; including Wendy and Paul Golden, Lisa and Phil Headley, Lynn and Sean Sherman, Steve and Cyndy Parr, and Dan Parr and wife Donna, and Cindy and Wally’s dog, Sassy. Her stepson Eric preceded her in death. Her 9 grandchildren have been blessed

by Cindy’s devotion to family and love for the Chesapeake Bay. Cindy’s devotion to her husband of 33 years, Wallace E. Parr, is an example of the power of love, and they have always been delighted by visitors enjoying their bayside home. Wally cared for Cindy with fortitude throughout her difficult times.

One of Cindy’s greatest legacies is her loving family. We will miss her always and think of her often, knowing that we’ve been forever inspired by her devotion to us and to the natural world she so loved.

A memorial service will be held at Fellows, Helfenbein and Newman Funeral Home in Chester, MD on Saturday, Jan. 20. Doors open at 1 p.m., service at 3 p.m., and 4 p.m. reception (heavy finger foods) to follow at the residence of Paul and Wendy Golden at 109 Queen Anne Road, Stevensville, MD.

Dalton Daniel McKay Nov. 27, 1993 – Dec. 26, 2017 Dalton Daniel McKay aka “Grey Wolf”, Age 24, passed away on Dec. 26, 2017 at Kadlec hospital in Richland, Washington. He was surrounded by family and friends.

Dalton was born in Pendleton, Ore. on Nov. 27, 1993. He was the son of Misty “Hummingbird” Sheoships and Damon McKay. He was an

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enrolled member of the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation. He was raised in Thornhollow on the Umatilla reservation.

Dalton attended school in Athena and Weston.

Dalton also went to Wolf Creek Job Corps in Roseburg, Oregon where he specialized in Firefighting and Forestry. Dalton loved to hunt big game, fish, and roam the mountains and rivers.

Dalton was very outgoing and mischievous person and loved to tease and joke around, you knew he was up to no good when you see that big grin come out and that light in his eyes. Dalton was all about family and his friends became family for him. Dalton could make new friends, striking up conversation with a perfect stranger like he knew them for years. He loved to watch boxing, UFC, baseball, and football and he could quote stats and all things sports related.

His favorite football team was the New England Patriots. If anyone knew Dalton his favorite go to meal was a cup of steaming hot Raman Noodles which he perfected. Dalton will be missed by all who knew him; he gave the gift of laughter, a shoulder to lean and his smile.

He is survived by his father Damon McKay of Mission, grandparents Nora and Leon Sheoships of Thornhollow, David and Becky McKay, his brothers Wauker and Jonathan Tate, Kyle McKay, aunts: Karen Lee of Whiteriver, Arizona, Cecelia Husted (Sheoships) of Thornhollow, Shari Sheoships of Mission, Darcey McKay and Leslie Saluskin of Mission, uncles: David McKay Jr., Joshua Husted of Thornhollow, Frank Lee of Whiteriver, Arizona, cousins: Carrisa Close of Mission, Lily Sheoships of Thornhollow, Paul and Vincent Sheoships of Mission, Ike and Sean McKay of Mission, Jerold Billy, Sean Lee, Frank Lee Jr., and Frankie Lee of Whiteriver, Arizona, and many many more aunts, uncles, cousins, nephews, and nieces. Dalton was preceded in death by his mother Misty Dawn Sheoships and now has Dalton in her arms.

The dressing ceremony was held on Dec. 28 at 2 p.m. at Pioneer Chapel in Pendleton, Oregon, following with Washat service at Mission Longhouse at 7 p.m. Catholic Mass and burial was held at St. Andrews Church at 9 a.m. on Dec. 29, 2017.

Weather Weather information summarize data taken at the Pendleton Weather Station from Dec. 1 to Dec. 30. Temperature is reported in degrees Fahrenheit and time in Pacific Standard Time.

The average daily temperature was 30.9 degrees with a high of 62 degrees on Dec. 23 and a low of one degree on Dec. 24. With a departure from normal of -2.3 degrees Total precipitation to date in December was 1.22” with greatest 24hr average 0.27” Dec. 24.

Twelve days out of the month had precipitation level greater than .01 inches with four days greater than 0.10 inches. There was a departure of 0.04” from average for the month of November.

The average wind speed was 5.2 mph with a sustained max speed of 38 mph from the South West on Dec. 19 and a peak speed of 50 on Dec. 19. The dominant wind direction was from the South & Southwest.

There were 19 rain days out of 30, 17 Stagnant days in the month of December.

Top Weather Events of 2017 Here are the top local weather events for 2017 as voted by staff from the National Weather Service in Pendleton, Oregon. The average score with a top ranking of 10 shown.

1. Severe Winter-9.27: It was a top 5 cold January for many locations, such as Hermiston (1), Pasco (1), Dayville (1), Sisters (2), Long Creek (2), Pelton Dam (2), La Grande (2), Meacham (4), and Walla Walla (5). The Winter Severity Index which tracks snow and temperatures and compared to previous winters at

selected locations showed the Winter of 2016-17 to be extreme at all points in the Inland Northwest, including Redmond, Walla Walla, Pendleton, and Yakima. Interstate-84 was closed between Boardman and Baker City on 16 days during December and January.

2. Smoke-8: Wildfires, in and around the Inland Northwest, produced long durations of poor visibility and unhealthy air quality. Beginning in early August, smoke poured into the region from fires in British Columbia. At the end of August and early September, smoke from fires in the Cascades and Columbia Gorge enveloped the region. Stagnant air conditions and a light easterly flow even allowed smoke from Idaho and western Montana to drift into the region.

3. Solar Eclipse-7.27: On August 21st, it was a once in a lifetime event when the long anticipated total solar eclipse occurred. What made it weather worthy was that the sky conditions were nearly perfect for viewing. On the previous day, there was a weak disturbance that produced clouds and then, the day after the eclipse, the smoke from regional fires returned to many areas.

4. June 26 flash flood and severe thunderstorms-6.09: The largest severe weather outbreak in nearly 4 years produced eight severe thunderstorms which pounded central and northeast Oregon and southeast Washington.

Large hail up to golf ball sized was observed near Warm Springs and Clarno, Oregon. The Pendleton airport received its largest 1 hour rainfall on record with 0.97 inch. Flash flooding was reported near the airport and also in Kennewick and Richland, Washington. Winds gusted 60 to 65 mph at Pendleton and also Richland and Kahlotus, Washington.

5. Wet Water Year-5.27: Pendleton, Yakima and the Tri Cities, Washington each earned top 10 ranking for wet water years ending September 30. Nearly all of this moisture came in the October through June period.

6. Bye Bye Drought-4.81: In early March, the drought monitor showed all of Washington and Oregon drought free for the first time since October 2011, a period just short of 5 and a half years.

At the end of March, mountain snowpack was 100 to 140 percent of normal in the Cascades, Blues, Ochocos, and Wallowas.

7. Central Oregon Hail storm-4.27-: On May 4th, a late evening severe thunderstorm traveled through northern Deschutes and Jefferson counties and produced large hail between 1 and 2 inches in diameter northwest of Bend and Terrebonne, before moving into the Madras area.

8. Hot Dry Summer-3.91: Many locations recorded the average temperatures in the top 5 for warmest on record for June through August.

The Long Creek, Oregon average summer temperature of 66.5 degrees barely beat the previous record hottest by 0.1 degree set in 2015. Most locations only received 25 to 75 percent of normal precipitation with the Pendleton area being the exception at 131 percent of normal. It was dry for 54 consecutive days in Easton, Washington and for 61 days in Redmond, Oregon. Hermiston and Yakima had the driest July on record. It was the hottest August on record at Ellensburg, Hermiston, Bend, Easton, Yakima, Pelton Dam, Long Creek, and Condon.

9. Union County Blizzards-3.36: On January 7th and 18th, the LaGrande, Oregon airport reported visibility less than 1/4 mile due to blowing snow creating blizzard conditions. On the 7th, all roads in Union County, including I-84, were closed as winds gusted to over 60 mph.

10. Damaging Winds-2.64: On April 7th, a strong low pressure system created a tight gradient and produced wind gusts in the 60 to 70 mph range at Walla Walla and Ellensburg, Washington and also at Shaniko, Heppner, La Grande, and Pendleton, Oregon. Snapped trees and power outages were reported in the Bend area.

Martin Luther King Day - Jan. 15 - CTUIR Offices will be closed

Confederated Umatilla Journal

Public notice NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Land Protection Planning Commission (LPPC) of the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation (CTUIR) will hold a public hearing on the following: Proposed amendments to the ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH & SAFETY CODE to amend Chapter 7, Solid Waste Management, to grant the CTUIR Tribal Environmental Recovery Facility (TERF) an exclusive franchise for collection of solid waste and recyclables on the Umatilla Indian Reservation.

The hearing will be held Tuesday, January 9, 2018 at 9:00 a.m. in the Nixyaawii Governance Center Wanaq’it Conference Room (L202) on the Umatilla Indian Reservation, 46411 Timine Way, Pendleton.

The public is entitled and encouraged to attend the hearing and to submit oral or written testimony regarding the request. To obtain additional information, contact the Tribal Planning Office at 46411 Timine Way, Pendleton, Oregon 97801 or call (541) 276-3099.

Travis Olsen, Chair Land Protection Planning Commission

Jobs Senior Accountant (Exempt); Open/Close: 12/12/17-1/19/18. Salary Range: $72,148$93,798. Duties: performs contracts administration; approves Purchase Order Requests for purchasing; performs internal audit functions, including preparation of journal entries; reconciles bank accounts; assists with budgets, indirect cost proposals and audit; helps administer CRITFC’s retirement plan. Required: Bachelor Degree in Accounting, Business Administration; CPA license desirable. Min. 3-7 yrs. experience in work duties. Also, required experience with Fund Accounting, P.L. 93-638 contracting, 2 CFR 200 (Uniform Guidance); computerized accounting software; Microsoft Office Suite. For full job requirements: http://www.critfc.org/ blog/jobs/senior-accountant/. Additional Position Information Contact: Deanna Jim-Juarez, Manager Human Resources, (503) 238-0667.

Career Opportunities at the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation

1. Center Service Assistant 2. Re-Education/Intervention Facilitator 3. Facilities Maintenance Technician II 4. Communication Officer - (Dispatcher) On Call/Part-Time 5. Teacher/Family Advocate 6. On-Call Public Transit Bus Drivers 7. Hanford Archaeologist REVISED 8. Education Culture Coordinator 9. Tribal Linguist 10. Master Speaker Nez Perce For more information visit: Office of Human Resources Online http://ctuir.org/about-us/ employment-opportunities

January 2018

CTUIR

FISH & WILDLIFE COMMISSION HOSTING

First Foods Forum 4 p.m. Jan 9 - General Council Chambers - 2018 Bison Hunt Orientation - Spring Fishery - 2018 Hunting Regulations

Board of Trustees

General Council

Chair Gary Burke

Chair Willie Sigo, IV

Vice Chair Jeremy Wolf

Vice Chair Michael Ray Johnson

Treasurer Doris Wheeler

Community Watch Senior Center at 5 p.m.

Upcoming meeting: July 28

Community Forum Jan. 30 at Senior Center 5:30 p.m. Potluck, 6p.m. Meeting Agenda: Kit Morgan, Legal Aid Discussion: Jurisdiction

Secretary Shawna Gavin

Secretary Kathryn Brigham

Interpreter Thomas Morning Owl

At-large BOT Members: Aaron Ashley Sally Kosey Rosenda Shippentower Woodrow Star

General Council contact Info Office: 541-429-7378 Email: GeneralCouncil@ctuir.org Meeting updates and information on: www.ctuir.org/government/general-council

CTUIR Interim Executive Director: Charles F. Sams III

General Council Meeting Pendleton Pioneer Chapel received three prestigious awards in 2009

w The Oregon Funeral Directors Association Award of Funeral Service Excellence w The Best Of Eastern Oregon Award as voted by the readers of the East Oregonian

Nixyaawii Governance Center, 2 p.m. - Jan. 18

w Pendleton Chamber of Commerce 2009 Business of the Year

Draft agenda:

1. Elder’s Program Abbual Report - Julie Taylor, DCFS Director; Elder’s Advisory Committee 2. Fish & Wildlife Committee Reort - Jeremy Wolf, FWC Chair Our experienced family provides caring, compassionate care including:

Burial Services ~ Military Services Cremation ~ Monuments

January 2018

CTUIR Express Phone Directory

Tribal Court 541-276-2046

Human Resources 541-429-7180

Department of Children and Family Services 541-429-7300

Science & Engineering/Air Quality Burnline 541-429-7080

Enrollment Office 541-429-7035

Senior Center 541-276-0296

Finance Office 541-429-7150

TERF 541-276-4040

Finance – Credit Program 541-429-7155

Confederated Umatilla Journal 541-429-7399

Confederated Umatilla Journal

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CRITFC staff selects Wolf Portland names John as Commissioner of Year new Tribal liaison

PORTLAND – Jeremy Wolf has been named Commissioner of the Year by the staff at the Columbia River Inter-Tribal Fish Commission (CRITFC).

Wolf, vice-chair of the Board of Trustees for the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation (CTUIR), serves as Secretary for CRITFC. Wolf also chairs the CTUIR Fish & Wildlife Commission.

In an email to Wolf, CRITFC Executive Director Jaime Jeremy Wolf A. Pinkham said the CRITFC staff “sees you as steadfast, fair and just. Your perspective and guidance among them and your peers is essential to our work. If you boil it down, you make a difference to this organization as a leader and in how you lead. We’re proud to be on your team.”

Upon learning of the honor, Wolf

shared the recognition with other past and present leaders, staff, other tribal commissioners, and policy and staff at CRITFC and on the Umatilla Indian Reservation.

“The organization and its efforts have such a storied history I only hope my efforts do justice to the resiliency of our First Foods and our people for the generations to come. We have much to be proud of, and equally, much to work towards and learn from all our foods and specifically Wy-Kan-Ush-Mi Wa-KishWit. Knowing and remembering this allows us to look forward to the challenges ahead,” Wolf wrote in an email.

This is the fourth time a CTUIR leader has been honored as a CRITFC Commissioner of the Year. Twice Kat Brigham has received the recognition. Also, atway Mitch Pond has been honored as Commissioner of the Year.

The CRITFIC coordinates management policy and provides fisheries technical services for the Yakama, Warm Springs, Umatilla, and Nez Perce tribes.

2015 Hyundai Accent

PORTLAND – Laura John, a descendent of the Blackfeet and Seneca Nations, has begun as the City of Portland’s Tribal Liaison. John will act as the primary representative of the Mayor, elected City Council and all bureaus and offices in relationships with sovereign Tribal governments and the urban Native American community.

“I am humbled to be selected for this position,” John shared. “It is truly a privilege to serve the community that I grew up in. I look forward to elevating the voice of the Portland Native community through outreach, inclusion, and representation.”

John has worked in American Indian Communities for the past 20 years; she was previously a researcher and program evaluator for the National Indian Child Welfare Association, an early career scientist for the Native American Research Center of Health, and coordinated a child abuse prevention program for the Native American Rehabilitation Association in Portland.

John was a State Policy Fellow with the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, during which time she served as the State-Tribal Policy Analyst for the Montana Budget & Policy Center and worked closely with Native American state legislators and elected tribal leaders in Montana. She holds undergraduate degrees in Portland State University and Haskell Indian Nations University, and graduate degrees Washington State University and the University of Montana.

“I heard from the robust and diverse Native communities in Portland about

the critical importance of the Tribal Liaison position. Laura has a history of being a strong advocate for American Indian and Alaska Native communities,” said Mayor Ted Wheeler. “Her experience and existing close ties with the Portland Native American community will help us form more meaningful relationships and work together to create solutions.”

Laura John Rep. Tawna Sanchez (HD 43 - North and Northeast Portland) and Director of Family Services at the Native American Youth and Family Center commented, “ I have known her for many years and see her new position as a wonderful opportunity to develop partnerships with Portland’s Native community and tribes.”

The Tribal Liaison assists the City Council and all City bureaus in strengthening relationships and coordinating overall policy development with Tribal Governments and the American Indian/Alaska Native community in Portland. The position acts as a primary point of contact for City Council and all city bureaus and offices and is charged with establishing the Portland Native American Advisory Commission.

The Tribal Liaison will report to the Director of Government Relations and hold a full-time position within the Office of Government Relations.

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Confederated Umatilla Journal

January 2018

Van Sohappy of Mission danced during Saturday’s competition at the Christmas Celebration held at Dec. 22-23 at the Mission Longhouse on the Umatilla Indian Reservation.

Sara Frank holds 5-month-old Jevon Thompson at the Christmas Celebration in December on the Umatilla Indian Reservation.

2017 Christmas Celebration Christmas Celebration Results Friday, Dec. 22 55+ Golden Age Women-1, Viola Totus. 2, Sally Kosey. 3, Kathy Burke.

55+ Golden Age Men-1, Gary Burke. 2, Amos Pond. 3, Joe Sherwood.

0-6 Tiny Tots girls-1, Abby Kordatzky. 2, Salleen Wildbill. 3, Stella Wolf.

0-6 Tiny Tots boys-1, Alex Allen. 2, Truman Brown. 3, Siommon Shippentower.

12 and younger jingle and shaw-1, Olivia Allen. 2, Kendall Spencer. 3, Lillian Watchman.

12 and younger grass and fancy-Brianah Matamoros, Adam Brown, Eli Brown, Lawrence Johnson, Garion McDonald.

7-12 junior girls traditional-1, Tanisa Sherwood. 2, Olivia Allen.

3, Amber Onepennee.

7-12 junior boys traditional-1, Kaiwin Clements. 2, Atish Williams.

3, Emery Kordatzky.

Saturday, Dec 23 55+ Golden Age Women-1, Katie Blackwolf-Bevis. 2, Marie Dick.

3, Marlene Taylor.

55+ Golden Age Men-1, Amos Pond. 2, John Bevis Sr. 3, Joe Sherwood.

0-6 Tiny Tots girls-1, Dazha Joseph. 2, Abby Kordatzky. 3, Elizabeth Bevis.

0-6 Tiny Tots boys-1, Quincy Sams. 2, Moses Wallsee. 3, Truman Brown.

12 and younger jingle and shawl-1, Kera Onepennee. 2, Rayanna Jackson. 3, Sequoia Edwards.

12 and younger grass and fancy-1, Brianah Matamoros. 2, Sunny Wallsee. 3, Garion McDonald.

7-12 junior girls traditional-1, Sheldon Joseph was first Saturday Alanya Bevis. 2, Addison Kosey. in the 7-12 junior boys traditional 3, Amber Onepennee. dancing.

7-12 junior boys traditional-1, Sheldon Joseph. 2, Lewis Allen.

3, Abby Kordatzky.

13 and older jingle and shawl-1, Irene Onepennee. 2, Heaven Wallsee.

3, Katrina Blackwolf.

13 and older grass and fancy-1, Wilbur Oatman. 2, Jesse Bevis. 3, Logan Quaempts.

13-17 teen girls traditional-1, Aurelia Heay. 2, Gerra Shock. 3, Heaven Wallsee.

13-17 teen boys traditional-1, Trenton Calica. 2, Alex Williams. 3, Anthony Hicks.

Adult women’s traditional-1, Sara Scott. 2, Ida Adams. 3, Edwina Morning Owl. Adult men’s traditional-1, Mike Bad Warrior. 2, Carlos Calica. 3, Brian Shot Gun Schell Adams.

January 2018

This trio included, from left, River Edwards, Quincy Sams and Abby Kordatzky.

Sams and Kordatzky were tiny tonts winners.

River Edwards, 7, from Warm Springs, danced in the 7-12 junior boys traditional competition.

CUJ photos/Dallas Dick

Confederated Umatilla Journal

Brianah Matamoros, Sunny Wallsee and Garion McDonald dress in thier “switch-out” fancy dance outfits at the pow wow with help from Shalaya Williams.

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Our vision: Our tribal community achieves optimal health through a culture of wellness. Our mission: We strive to empower our Tribal community with opportunities to learn and experience healthy lifestyles.

Y e l l o w h a w k

These two pages are sponsored by Yellowhawk Tribal Health Center.

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Confederated Umatilla Journal

January 2018

N

N e w s

&

E v e n t s

@Yellowhawk4U

Partnerships for Success Work Group An organization to unite and strategize ways to reduce underage drinking in our community. Join the conversation and see how you can personally make an impact.

WHEN: First Friday of the month 11:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

WHERE: Yellowhawk Prevention Activity Room

541-278-7529 For more information: Wenona Scott 541

January 2018

Confederated Umatilla Journal

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Confederated Umatilla Journal

January 2018

Waving at the Cay-Uma-Wa Headstart students as they entered into the Mission Longhouse to perform Christmas carols are, from left, Kelly Long, Kathy Thompson, Doris Thompson and Mary Freeman.

Christmas luncheon draws almost 200 elders MISSION – The Elders Christmas Luncheon packed the Longhouse in December with more than 150 in attendance.

The elders of the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation (CTUIR) enjoyed Christmas caroling from students of the Cay-Uma-Wa Head Start, and Dionne Bronson of Yellowhawk Tribal Health Center got everyone moving with a session of Thai Chi where she taught movements that help with flexibility and coordination. Live music was performed by Sissy Falcon and the Oregon Blue Mountain Old Time Fiddlers Association, and Anson Crane setup a DJ station providing background music.

Lunch was served at noon.

Reminiscing over her childhood Christmas memories, Katrina Burnside said that before the Longhouse the Tribes had a quonset hut where the community gathered for their Christmas event.

“I was just a toddler but I remember it … the Chiefs would put on races for the kids and give fifty cent pieces … that was a lot of money then,” said Burnside.

“Everybody would come from all around … it was packed,” said Gloria Williams who was sitting next to Burnside, “So many elders … they’re all gone now.

Above, the eagle staff stood tall with the Christmas trees Dec. 19.

Left, Cay-UmaWa Head Start children and staff sing Christmas songs to the elders at the Mission Longhouse. Elders encouraged the kids by joining in on the songs. Staff with the children are Jory Spencer, left, Sonara Malumaleumu, standing wearing black, and Joseph Ashley-Burns.

It was the biggest event … huge.”

Lydia Johnson, who will be 98 years old in May 2018, is looking forward to another healthy year. She and her cousin Leona Smartlowit recalled when it would take around six hours to travel to the Mission area from Wapato, Washington, in 1929 before The Dalles Bridge was built. Johnson explained that they would have to take a ferry to cross the Columbia River and with them they would bring their 1929 Nash to drive the remainder of the trip. They would travel to Pendleton and Mission for various events including the Pendleton Round-Up. “Living on borrowed time,” is how Bill Burke explained his upcoming year. He was happy to see babies at the luncheon as well as friends and family he hadn’t seen in a while. He also shared his memories of giveaways held at St. Andrews and at Tutuilla.

He remembered a barn getting turned into a dancehall where there would be more giveaways.

“It was a giving time just like it is here,” said Burke. “Everyone is enjoying themselves, young and old.”

The annual Elder’s Christmas Luncheon is put on by the Department of Children and Family Services of the CTUIR.

Sissy Falcon along with the Oregon Blue Mountain Old Time Fiddlers Association provided music entertainment for the CTUIR elders during their Christmas luncheon.

CUJ photos by Lennox Lewis and Miranda Vega Rector

Left, Sonia Lloyd accepts a raffle item she won at the Elder’s Christmas Luncheon held Dec. 19.

Partaking in a session of Thai Chi, Gloria Williams, left, and Betsy Hart, far right, perform stretching poses instructed

by Dionne Bronson. Sitting in between them is Connie Shippentower.

January 2018

Confederated Umatilla Journal

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CUJ photo/Phinney

‘I worked with the grandparents.

Now I’m working with the children and grandchildren.

I have completed the circle.’

Bonnie Burke stands in front of the doors of the Tribal Environmental Recovery Facility on the Umatilla Indian Reservation.

Burke retires after decades at landfill, TERF By the CUJ

MISSION – When Bonnie Burke started work as the landfill office secretary in May of 1979, she was considered a Community Health Representative employed through Yellowhawk Tribal Health Center.

Retiring after 38 years, Burke leaves as Operations Manager of the Tribal Environmental Recovery Facility (TERF) that services approximately 1,000 residential customers on the Umatilla Indian Reservation, plus another 250 commercial accounts, and disposes of about 4,000 tons of garbage every year.

Burke, 66, has seen a lot of changes since she went to work with Rod Cowapoo, the landfill director, and Bob Burnside, the foreman. Andy Dumont was her Yellowhawk supervisor. She took the place of Rosemary Narcisse, the landfill secretary who would become the long-standing secretary for the Board of Trustees for the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation (CTUIR). Later the program was placed under the Department of Economic and Community Development with Bill Tovey as Director.

Ashley Picard, who will be acting Operations Manager, is the granddaughter of Sonny Picard, who was the site-operator who maintained the landfill, and Myrtle Motanic, who was hired years ago through the CAPCO Senior Program. Robin Marsh, the TERF scale operator, is the daughter of Rosemary Narcisse.

“I worked with the grandparents,” said Burke.

“Now I’m working with the children and grandchildren. I have completed the circle.”

Burke is looking forward to working at Tutuilla Presbyterian Church and chief among her tasks will be getting records and filing in order. She also plans to do a lot of crafts and take cultural classes she’s never seemed to have had time for. She wants to volunteer with the seniors and she wants to travel, including a trip or two to Arizona to see her daughter Lynsie.

It’s fun to look back on a career that spans more than three decades. After all, this is one of the most undesirable jobs to deal with on a daily basis. For example, garbage collection two or three days after a summer fish handout doesn’t leave much for the imagination.

Burke remembers the Tribal Farm Committee provided the five acres for the landfill and Bob Burnside flying to Ohio to drive back with the Tribes’ first 10yard garbage truck.

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Indian Health Service provided the money to buy that first truck plus a dozer for the landfill and 250 galvanized trash cans. That stuff and a solid waste management plan were in place when Burke came on board.

In 1994, state regulators directed that landfills would require monitors, which made solid waste a priority for the CTUIR. A feasibility study considered using rail, incineration, barge or a transfer station.

The reservation didn’t have the volume for any of those, but the closest was the transfer station.

The Tribes closed and covered the landfill in 1994 and set out to build TERF. That process didn’t happen quickly. In fact, it took seven years and during that time garbage on the reservation had to be hauled to Humbert’s Landfill in Milton-Freewater.

Colville Tribal Services was the contractor to build the state-of-the-art transfer station that began with eight employees, which included drivers, a recycling coordinator, a foreman and a scale operator. In the first years, TERF struggled to fill a 53-foot trailer in a week. Now two, sometimes three trailers go out weekly, depending on the time of the year.

“To stay out of the red we need 4,000 tons annually and we’re doing that,” Burke said.

In the early days, those galvanized cans, which weighed about 20 pounds empty, were hoisted up and over the compactor by the “G-men.” Today an “automated arm” grabs the cans hydraulically.

The number of employees has stayed the same through education, technology and cross training even though work has increased and the amount of garbage has quadrupled over the years, Burke said.

“It’s just not throwing away garbage anymore,” she said. “We’re even teaching how to place garbage in the can. How to pack, how to bag everything so when it’s dumped it doesn’t end up half full …”

Burke said recycling has changed garbage collection dramatically, sorting and separating everything.

“Back in the day everything was thrown into the landfill,” she said. “It all just went into the ground and was covered. With education, disposal is a lot different. There can be a very small amount of garbage, really, if you do it correctly.”

Education has worked, but it’s taken a while.

“We strive to stay consistent,” Burke admits.

(Now recycling is changing because of decisions from China. See other story on Page 5A.) “There have been big changes,” she said. “From

Confederated Umatilla Journal

people throwing everything away and not thinking about it to now sorting through everything and placing garbage only in their can.”

TERF is allowed two 53-foot trailers from Finley Butte Landfill near Arlington. TERF sub-contractor, Pendleton Sanitation, hauls these trailers on call.

TERF and Pendleton Sanitation have worked side by side for the last 18 years and have created a good working relationship, Burke said.

At the beginning last year, Pendleton Sanitation was doing repairs at their facility so TERF handled the city’s garbage for three days. Pendleton’s operations handle at least three times the amount of garbage as the CTUIR. “It was a large increase on our daily intake, but the TERF staff was able to oblige Pendleton Sanitation,” Burke said. “I was proud of the TERF staff for dealing with the increase.”

TERF garbage trucks cover the entire Umatilla Indian Reservation with rural routes that range from the Bar M Ranch and Meacham to the east, the Tubbs Ranch to the North, McKay Creek to the south, Tutuilla Flats to the southwest and Riverside on the west end of Pendleton.

Two trucks take off in different directions to pick up garbage on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays. Mondays and Fridays are scheduled for recycling pickups and truck maintenance.

“Every day has been a challenge,” she said.

“Whether it’s the state or feds against us or with us, a lack of employees, equipment break down, just to know what is hazardous waste versus garbage versus recyclable …

“We’re the first within the Pacific Northwest tribes to have a full blown transfer station and we’ve been a model for EPA (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency) recycling Champions and DEQ (Department of Environmental Quality) uses us as a model for landfill closure, underground storage tank removal and education and outreach procedures.”

The Makah Tribe is using the CTUIR transfer station design, the Colville and the Nez Perce have the TERF design and may use it after completing feasibility studies, Burke said.

“Solid waste and recycling have changed so dramatically over the years,” Burke said. “There have always been challenges and accomplishments and through all of this I would not have had it any other way. I can actually say I loved my job.”

January 2018

Wildhorse jackpots hit biggest year in casino’s history MISSION – Wildhorse Resort & Casino (WRC) gave away $80,604,74.88 in jackpots in 2017 making it their biggest year in WRC jackpot history, according to a press release.

Throughout the year 76,821 jackpots of $500 or more were given out; an average of 210 jackpots a day. During December alone, 8,802 WRC guests had a payout of at least $500. There were 92 jackpots of $4,000 or more and 23 jackpots of $8,000 or more awarded during the month. The largest jackpot was $50,000.

Wildhorse will celebrate its 23 anniversary in 2018. To kick off the New Year, the casino is hosting the $80,000 Lucky 8 Red Envelope Giveaway. Every Saturday and Sunday in January from 4-8p.m., guests can pick an envelope that will reveal a prize of $88 Free Play, $88 Cash or $888 Cash. Three Winners will be drawn every 30 minutes. On Jan. 28, one Grand Prize Winner will receive $8,888. See Club Wild for full promotional details.

BIRTHDAY ADS DUE, WITH PAYMENT, ON AD DEADLINE. THANK YOU LETTERS DUE ON NEWS DEADLINE. All deadlines listed on Page 2A.

January 2018

CTUIR receives restoration grant SEATTLE – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has awarded $1,039,686 to support 32 tribes, including the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation, with their non-point source pollution programs, and an additional $975,548 under the competitive grant program to 10 of the tribes for specific restoration and protection projects, boosting tribal water quality programs across three Northwest states.

On the Umatilla Indian Reservation, the two grant programs total $130,000, partially funding a Department of Natural Resources Rangeland Management Specialist position ($30,000) and the continued restoration of Meacham Creek ($100,000).

The Rangeland Management Specialist will be identifying reservation watershed restoration and protection projects, designing and implementing best management practices, and monitoring and evaluating project effectiveness – all with a focus on improving water quality.

The Meacham Creek project is an ongoing, multi-year effort with multiple objectives, including reconstructing and improving the creek’s main channel, side channels, and adjacent wetlands. Cooler in-stream water will result from increased flows and interactions with the floodplain’s increased shallow groundwater, and more shade

This photo shows Meacham Creek floodplain restoration and in-stream enhancement activities in 2017. Here, CTUIR Fisheries Habitat Program staff work with a construction contractor to develop a secondary river channel with alcove/wetland habitat.

from increased riparian vegetation. Increased flows and lower temperatures will provide more - and better - spawning and rearing habitat for steelhead and salmon, as well as all resident fish and aquatic species.

These grant funds are distributed to tribes through the Section 319 Nonpoint Source Program of the Clean Water Act aimed at fostering environmental pro-

Confederated Umatilla Journal

grams that address nonpoint source pollution in surface and groundwater so tribes can restore and protect their waters in Indian country.

Under the competitive program, EPA selected ten Pacific Northwest proposals from the following tribes: Coeur d’Alene, Colville, Lummi, Nez Perce, Quinault, Siletz, Spokane, Umatilla, Upper Skagit, and Makah.

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Welcome Xalish Xalish Francis Taula, who was born on Dec. 4 to CTUIR Tribal members Iosefa Taula & Cat Barkley. He was 9lbs, 4ozs, 20.5 inches at birth. His first name ‘Xalish Xalish’, comes from the Umatilla language which means ‘Young Wolf’.

CUJ photo/Miranda Vega Rector

Above, the current 2018 Happy Canyon (HC) Princesses, center, and the previous 2017 HC Princesses stand together as several people gather around them and snap their photo. From left is Gabriella Lewis, Sequoia Conner, Tayler Craig, and Virginia Conner.

Right, the 2017 Happy Canyon (HC) Princesses, left, pass “down” the hand beaded HC bags to the 2018 Princesses.

The bags will be carried by Sequoia Conner and Tayler Craig over the next year, just as 37 sets of princesses did before them.

CUJ photo/Dallas Dick

2018 Princesses greet the public PENDLETON – The 2018 Happy Canyon Princesses, Sequoia Conner and Tayler Craig, met members of the Pendleton and Mission communities on Dec. 23 at the Pendleton Convention Center during a meet and greet event.

Conner is a member of the San Carlos Apache Tribe in California and Craig is a member of the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation.

Both girls were given a chance to introduce themselves and their family members to the crowd that gathered at the convention center. Conner also introduced her coworkers from Papa Murphy’s who were in attendance to support her.

The former 2017 Princesses, Gabriella Lewis and Virginia Conner, handed down the beaded Happy Canyon bags

that 37 sets of Princesses before them used during their reign. The bags were beaded by Craig’s great grandmother.

They also received many gifts from community members and took photos with anyone who wanted one.

As advice to the new Princesses, Virginia Conner said “Take in every moment, Round-Up will be here before you know it.”

Kelsy Garton, Security Director, said the event was a great turn out.

“I don’t remember the last time we had so many people,” said Garton.

For information on the 2018 Happy Canyon and Wild West Show, visit HappyCanyon.com.

As Conner and Craig put it, “On with the show!”

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F Large stock of moccasins - all sizes F Extra Large Dark Otter F Men’s old style buckskin shirts lBeaded antique old and new shawls lTule mats l Men’s, women’s & children’s hard-sole fully beaded mocassins l Roaches, shell dresses for women and children lWhite buckskin dresses for women and children l Old style trade cloth dresses for children l White 3X large deer hides lOtter hair wraps l Wing and jingle dresses for women and girls l Large stock commercial and brain-tanned hides

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Confederated Umatilla Journal

January 2018

Old Man Winter visits for Xmas

Lacy Luton shovels snow around a driveway so the mail carrier will be able to access the boxes along Mission Road after heavy snow fell in late December.

Most people stayed inside because the temperatures were stuck in the teens.

Matt Farrow put his little tractor to work pushing snow at the parking lot at the Bureau of Indian Affairs.

James Bill, a maintenance employee for the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation, got to use a new snow blower attachment in the parking lot at Nixyaawii Governance Center to get rid of some of the seven inches that fell before Christmas.

January 2018

Confederated Umatilla Journal

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News from Indian Country Cheyenne River Court upholds meth dealer’s banishment EAGLE BUTTE, South Dakota - On Nov. 27, the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe won a court case that involved a judicial appeal of a banishment order issued to CRST tribal member, Jorie Cavanaugh.

Meth use has been an epidemic on the Cheyenne River Sioux Reservation for the past decade. The tribe has seen a huge increase in murders, burglary, and assault cases on the reservation related to drug use.

In an effort to fight back, the tribe instituted the traditional Lakota practice of banishment.

In July 2015, the CRST tribal council passed a resolution which banishes individuals who are convicted in any court of selling, trafficking, distributing, and/or dealing of meth.

According to the banishment The CRST resolution, there is no appeal council process once an individual has been given a banishment order. passed a Banishment from the reservation resolution is a lifelong sentence, although a which person may appeal the banishbanishes ment after 5 years. individuals In May of this year Cavanawho are ugh was convicted of Distribution of a Controlled Substance convicted in federal U.S. District Court. in any court According to court documents, of selling, Cavanaugh admitted to distrafficking, tributing methamphetamine on distributing, three occasions on the Cheyenne and/or dealing River Sioux Reservation.

Cavanaugh was sentenced of meth. to six months of home confinement, given a $500 fine, and 4 years of probation. During the sentencing, U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange, made special note that Cavanaugh could carry home confinement “at another home or shelter if banished from the Cheyenne River Sioux Reservation.”

On May 26, the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe issued a Notice of Banishment and Cavanaugh was served by tribal police.

In June, Cavanaugh appealed her banishment in tribal court, but the tribal council elected not to vacate the banishment and dismissed her appeal. Cavanaugh was still physically residing on the reservation at that time.

Court documents state that Cavanaugh “received Notice from the Tribe that she was to leave the Reservation by noon on July 26, 2017.” Again, Cavanaugh appealed in tribal court.

Cavanaugh was notified that her case was scheduled in November, but that her banishment order would not be vacated by the court. She was told that she could appear in court over the phone. Cavanaugh was immediately escorted off the reservation On November 27, the Cheyenne River Sioux tribal court issued its written order denying Cavanaugh’s request for a stay and dismissed the appeal. The tribal court noted that there is no right to appeal a banishment order when convicted in federal court; therefore, no grounds for a stay exist in the case.

The court ruling affirmed the tribe’s strong policy against meth dealers on the reservation.

“It’s a good example of the courts working with the decision of our people to enforce traditional law. I am happy about this decision,” said Chairman Frazier.

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Flying U

This group of Canada geese, flying southeast toward the sun in late December, didn’t seem concerned that their inverted V looked more like a U. They lifted off from stubble near the Umatilla River and were headed toward higher ground as the sun tried to poke through thick clouds.

Fort Belknap continues push for food sovereignty

filed similar lawsuits. Representatives for the drug companies have denied any wrongdoing.

NMSU works with Navajos to boost backyard gardens

HAVRE, Mont. (AP) - A Colorado-based development group has provided a $30,000 grant to promote food sustainability at Montana’s Fort Belknap Indian Reservation.

The Havre Daily News reports part of the grant will support research in hydroponic growing, in which food is grown year-round in climate controlled water.

The reservation is home to the Gros Ventre and Assiniboine tribes in north-central Montana.

The grant is from the Longmont, Colorado-based First Nations Development Institute with support from the Minnesota-based Northwest Area Foundation. The foundation promotes economic development among 75 Native nations in eight states.

The Red Paint Community Council has launched a community garden in Lodge Pole, near the southeast border of the reservation, and plans to open a cooperative store in January, Gone said. The store will feature a community kitchen, classes on canning food and a food pantry.

GALLUP, N.M. (AP) - Agricultural experts at New Mexico State University are working with Native Americans in the northwest corner of the state to boost interest in backyard gardening.

Officials with NMSU’s College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences say the arid stretch between Gallup and Shiprock used to be home to fruit trees and crops of corn, beans and squash.

As the climate has changed and access to water has decreased, many families have stopped raising gardens so NMSU’s Cooperative Extension Service has obtained federal funding for a program to revive the tradition.

During the recent growing season, officials say 19 families were raising backyard gardens. Four schools and three chapter houses also had some form of gardens.

The program helps with fencing, soil supplements, tools, water hoses and drip irrigation lines.

Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe sues drug companies over opioids

Tuition waived for Alaska Natives at state’s tribal college

CASS LAKE, Minn. (AP) - The Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe is suing the country’s largest opioid drug manufacturers and the three largest prescription drug distributors.

The lawsuit was filed Dec. 21 in federal court in Minnesota.

The Leech Lake Band alleges the companies used deceptive marketing tactics to maximize profits while minimizing the addictive nature of these drugs and the health risks to patients.

A statement from the tribe Thursday cites data from the Centers for Disease Control showing that in 2014 Native Americans had the highest rate per 100,000 people of opioid overdoses. In the four-county area containing Leech Lake’s tribal lands, it says, opioid-related deaths have increased dramatically.

Several local governments across the country have

JUNEAU, Alaska (AP) - The only federally recognized tribal college in Alaska has announced that it will waive tuition for all Alaska Native students starting next semester.

Alaska’s Energy Desk reported Dec. 22 that Ilisagvik College in Utqiagvik hopes waiving tuition will boost the college’s native student enrollment.

The college has one of the highest non-native enrollments among the nation’s tribal colleges and universities.

It has about 700 total enrolled students each semester.

Pearl Brower, president of the college, said that students have expressed concern with the price of tuition, which for a full course load runs over $3,000.

The college offers associate degrees, vocational certificates, and short-term workforce development courses, plus a bachelor’s degree in business administration that just launched this fall.

Confederated Umatilla Journal

January 2018

Moe Soeum and Whitney Minthorn stand outside of their new restaurant “Moe Phở” which will be located at 370 S. Main Street in Pendleton, Oregon. The eatery will feature Phở, a popular vietnamese dish. Soeum is of Cambodian descent and his life partner, Minthorn, is from the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation.

Moe Phở opening in Pendleton Moe Soeum and his life partner Whitney Minthorn venture into the restaurant business; they plan to open their Asian-influenced restaurant in early February.

by Miranda Vega Rector of the CUJ

PENDLETON – Stepping away from 15 years of working as a Shift Manager for table games, Moe Soeum is pursuing his passion for cooking at “Moe Phở” - an up-and-coming restaurant owned and operated by Soeum that will be serving Asian dishes.

Soeum is of Cambodian descent and started cooking at a young age; he learned “It’s the type mostly from his mom Meas of restaurant Khiev. He and his partner, Whitney Minthorn, a memyou would ber of the Confederated find if you Tribes of the Umatilla Inwere actually dian Reservation, have been working around the clock to in Southeast make their restaurant dream Asia ...” a reality.

Together they took a -Whitney Minthorn business class offered by Business Development Services of Wildhorse Resort & Casino (WRC) to get the restaurant in motion.

Soeum formerly worked at WRC. Recently they returned from a trip to Thailand and Vietnam where they took a cooking course on traditional foods. To gain hands-on experience, Soeum has been cooking in the kitchen of Lawan’s Thai Garden in Hermiston, Oregon, while Minthorn has been handling the front of the house.

“I was scared to quit my job at the casino,” said Soeum. “I didn’t want to take a chance. but recently it’s been like ‘I need to do this now or else I’m not going to do it.’ ” The restaurant will be located at 370 S. Main Street, the former home of New York Richie’s. According to Soeum, the owner will be making adjustments to the restaurant space, closing half of it off, moving the kitchen to one side of the building, and adjusting the location of the bar.

The décor will be “modern and cultural,” which includes a painting shipped from Cambodia as well as some of Minthorn’s photography. As for the staff, they will be wearing traditional uniforms designed by

January 2018

the broth is the most important. It cooks for a long period of time and “to make it right you need to put in a lot of love.”

In 2016, Phở was at the top of Google Food Trend’s “seasonal riser” list, predicted to be a trend that would come back even stronger in the upcoming years. The dish has been growing at a consistent rate of +11 percent year-after-year since 2013.

The pair has yet to set an official opening date, though they expect to be serving customers around the end of January or beginning of February. At first they plan to be open seven days a week from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. until they get a better feel for what the Pendleton community’s Phở needs are, and then they will adjust accordingly.

“Together we have come up with a fresh concept, a popular menu, and an ambitious but achievable plan to build it into a thriving new business,” wrote Soeum and Minthorn in their business plan.

In their first year they are expecting to serve an average of 2,400 customers a month and bring in a yearly net profit of $304,664.

To finance the restaurant, Soeum took from his personal savings and 401K, investing $12,000. His family contributed $15,000.

To stay in the know, like their facebook page: https:// www.facebook.com/pg/moephocafe/photos/?ref=page_ internal. designed and Submitted by Whitney Minthorn

a Vietnamese fashion designer.

“It’s the type of restaurant you would find if you were actually in Southeast Asia … with the music playing … you would feel like you were in another country,” said Minthorn, who is also handling the restaurants design, business and marketing aspect.

Although the featured dish on the menu is chicken or beef Phở, Soeum will be serving a variety of Vietnamese, Cambodian and Thai cuisine including Thai Noodles, spring rolls, and Cambodian Fried Rice.

Instead of alcoholic beverages, customers can choose from Vietnamese coffee, bubble tea with pearls, milk tea, and Pepsi products.

Traditional Phở is a Vietnamese soup consisting of rice stick noodles, broth, meat, and herbs. Soeum said

Confederated Umatilla Journal

Whitney Minthorn, in white, and Moe Soeum took cooking classes in Vietnam to learn authentic dishes that will be served in Soeum’s new restaurant. The pair returned from their Vitenam/ Thailand trip in early December.

Submitted by Whitney Minthorn

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Spokane Tribe opening $40 million casino Jan. 8

By Becky Kramer of the Spokane Spokesman-Review

Fallyn Plume-Sampson and other children go after candy after a pinata was broken at the Sobriety Pow Wow on New Year’s Eve. CUJ photo/Dallas Dick

A Sober New Year’s Eve

The Spokane Tribe’s new casino in Airway Heights is opening in early January, the tribe has announced.

The grand opening for the $40 million casino is at 7 p.m. Jan. 8.

“Many supporters of the Spokane Tribe Economic Project helped with our efforts to make the casino become a reality, and we are grateful to share this celebration with them,” Carol Evans, the tribe’s chairwoman, said in a news release.

The casino will offer about 450 slot machines, 12 table games, a restaurant and bar, a deli and gaming-floor bar. The Spokane Tribe’s future plans for the 145-acre site on U.S. Highway 2 include a hotel, restaurants, entertainment venues, shopping and a tribal cultural center.

The Spokane Tribe first proposed the casino development in

2006, but waited nine years for the greenlight from the U.S. Department of Interior to build the off-reservation casino. Washington Gov. Jay Inslee signed off on the project in 2015.

Parts of the new casino were named after landmarks and history important to the Spokanes, the news release said.

“Three Peaks Kitchen and Bar” refers to Mount Spokane, Cayuse Mountain and Steptoe Butte. The peaks roughly outline the tribe’s ancestral homelands of more than 3 million acres.

“Whaluks,” the name of the gaming floor bar, refers to a traditional card game played by members of the tribe.

“Speelya’s Den” is the name of a deli. Speelya is the Salish word for coyote, an important figure in the tribe’s culture.

About 300 people will work at the casino. The tribe is still hiring; job openings are listed at spokanetribecasino.com.

Homeland Security suspending bioterror testing in Oklahoma

Carrie Sampson and her daughters Hayden Plume-Sampson, left, and Fallyn Plume-Sampson celebrate the new year at the Yellowhawk Sobriety Pow Wow. About 75 people attended. A sobriety countdown indicated 331 years and 11 months of sobriety in the house.

A make-shift drum group led by Kelsey Burns performed for dancers and onlookers, including Roberta Kipp and Rosenda Shippentower at the Sobriety Pow Wow. Contributed photos

NEWKIRK, Okla. (AP) - The Department of Homeland Security said Dec. 21 it is suspending plans to conduct bioterrorism drills near the Kansas-Oklahoma border over concerns about their impact on grounds Native American tribes consider sacred because more than 100 children are buried there.

Homeland Security spokesman John Verrico said in an email that the tests were suspended over objections to them taking place at the Chilocco Indian Agricultural School. The Chilocco school, which operated from the late 1800s until

1980, was one of several federallyrun boarding schools where the U.S. once sought to assimilate Native American children. The tribes say the federal agency is failing to protect a site with religious and cultural significance.

The agency’s environmental assessment for the test said several inert chemical and non-hazardous biological materials were to be released to evaluate the ability of buildings to protect occupants from outdoor biological hazards. The proposed testing was planned for the months of February and June and July. `

Reycling Continued from page 5A

have been inevitable.

“We just lived through fire seasons.

They breathe that every day,” Mitchell said. “China wants to clean up. They’re shutting down paper mills that don’t meet requirements. They have 2,500 mills ratcheting materials and only 60 mills that meet modern standards … We’re caught in a cycle of cleanup and unfortunately for us, we’ve been complacent about what we’ve been sending and now the market isn’t accepting it.”

The abruptness and uncertainty created by China’s announcement has resulted in major disruptions in global recycling markets.

“This is a national and international issue,” said McHenry at Pendleton Sanitary Service, “but the effects are very local. There are no markets to absorb what China has refused to accept.”

Much of the problem can be blamed on

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co-mingled recycling, a service that has not been offered to Pendleton customers, McHenry said.

All of Western Oregon – and La Grande in Eastern Oregon – provides a single container for plastic, cardboard, newspapers and junk mail recycling.

Trouble is, McHenry said, some residents are “sloppy and don’t care” and throw away diapers, food and other contaminants that can’t always be completely separated to China’s new specifications.

Sorting lines at recycling facilities have slowed down in an effort to remove more contaminants to meet China’s higher standards, which has resulted in materials backing up. However, “due to Oregon’s strong recycling ethic, the flow of incoming material is not slowing down.”

As a “short-term stopgap solution,” DEQ has decided the best option is to send recyclable materials to the landfill.

“When all options to find markets for recyclable commodities have been

exhausted, DEQ concurs that landfilling these materials on a temporary basis is an unfortunate but needed option at this time,” DEQ states in an on-line explanation.

Because Chinese buyers purchased mixed paper and plastic with higher levels of contamination and higher prices than U.S. domestic markets could use or afford, there has been no incentive for recycling facilities in this country.

“China was the major buyer throughout the world,” said Spendelow at DEQ. “As long as we had China as a market, there was no incentive to build a facility here on the west coast.”

Although China had indicated its desire to clean up its recycling industry, U.S. dealers weren’t prepared for the decision.

“Honestly, nobody expected China to simply cut everybody off,” Spendelow said. “We’ve known since July but it was still unexpected.”

Spendelow said that within two years

Confederated Umatilla Journal

local processors may have a facility running that sort and recycle plastics.

“You can recycle a yogurt cup and make pellets and make toys or whatever else,” Spendelow said. “It’s just a matter of being separated and cleaned. If you get it clean enough … it can meet the same specs as virgin plastic.”

Mitchell said if China doesn’t provide recycling services then other countries may step in – or perhaps the United States will have to fill its own needs.

“We have to look for other markets and clean up our materials,” Mitchell said. “We may have to do a major reset on our own materials.”

For McHenry, China’s decision should serve as a clarion call to Oregonians who think of the state’s recycling efforts as “warm and fuzzy.”

“In the 30 years I’ve done this,” McHenry said, “this is the biggest impact to recycling since it was mandated in 1983. It’s the biggest thing I’ve ever seen.”

January 2018

Ballot Measure 101 Continued from page 1A

into other ways to fund the programs.

Medicaid is a government healthcare coverage program for the poor and other qualifying groups. Oregonians earning up to 138 percent of the federal poverty level ($16,100 for an individual; $32,900 for a family of four) are eligible for the program. In Oregon, the Medicaid program is known as the Oregon Health Plan and covers about one million people, including 400,000 children.

Sampson said as many as 900 people served at Yellowhawk could be impacted if 101 voted down.

“If it fails, it could decrease the number of people eligible for Medicaid. It could possibly revert who is eligible for Medicaid, and it could go back to 100 percent of the poverty level guidelines for services outside our four walls,” Sampson said.

Hundreds of thousands of Oregonians gained Medicaid coverage under the Affordable Care Act (Obamacare), which allowed states to provide coverage to people making up to 138 percent of the federal poverty level. As of November 2016, about 366,000 people were eligible for OHP under the Affordable Care Act. At Yellowhawk, the advent of the Affordable Care Act dramatically increased third-party revenue received from Medicaid billing. In 2017, Medicaid revenue was approximately $3.8 million. Prior to the Affordable Care Act, Yellowhawk was receiving about $800,000 for Medicaid payments. If 101 fails and eligibility reverts, Yellowhawk could stand to lose as much as $3 million a year.

“Since 2014, our revenue increased three times with enrolling people on Medicaid,” Sampson said. “And that’s helped us get the clinic built. Almost one third of our population at any one time is on Medicaid.”

Additionally, a no vote also means Yellowhawk would no longer or may be limited to pay for Elders Medicaid Part B, which covers doctor services, outpatient care, home health care, durable medical equipment and other medical services.

Further, a no vote and the loss of

funding could cause Yellowhawk to reprioritize medical guidelines. Currently, Yellowhawk is considered a level III or IV facility that provides primary and second care, inpatient and outpatient care services, as well as chronic tertiary and extended care services. If it has to reset priorities, it may become a priority level I, which is “life and limb” coverage, Sampson said. In that case, emergency and acutely urgent care services are only diagnostic and therapeutic to prevent immediate death or serious impairment.

Oregon’s Medicaid program costs $9.3 billion in state and federal funds per year, according to the Oregon Secretary of State’s office. If the measure is overturned, legislators would face an $840 million to $1.34 billion hole in the Medicaid budget, a figure that includes both state and federal matching funds.

It is feared that the Oregon Legislature in February would make budget cuts to non-healthcare budgets, like education, in order to maintain health care for some or all Oregonians who rely on Medicaid.

The Confederation of Oregon School Administrators on Dec. 4 issued a Ballot Measure 101 memorandum pointing out that the largest general fund (39 percent) budget item is the State School Fund, which could take the biggest whack if the Legislature decides to go that route.

Ryan Heinrich, principal at Nixyaawii Community School, said such cuts to state funding would definitely impact Pendleton School District 16R. “If they dip into that it would trickle down to NCS,” Heinrich said. “The (Nixyaawii) School Board is advocating for a yes vote because of the impact it will have on 400,000 kids.”

Further, the COSA memorandum states, failure of 101 could lead to the loss of health insurance coverage for tens of thousands of Oregon’s most vulnerable students and their families, thereby exacerbating the unmet health, social, emotional, and mental health needs of tens of thousands of k-12 students.

Healthcare and education, Heinrich said, are “all intertwined.”

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Happy Canyon Princesses Tayler Craig, left, and Sequoia Conner take a selfie after the Christmas Light Parade on Dec. 20.

Christmas on parade

At left, Amariana Willingham, Kayli Azure, unknown, Shawndein Salt, Naomi Wildbill (back holding Joylynn Salt), Alice Thompson and Ava Zamudio

Julianah Matamoros, left, Rachel Matamoros, and Tanaya Totus were helpers in the kitchen to provide hot chocolate, sandwiches and soup to the community after the Christmas Light Parade.

MISSION – The Christmas Light Parade carried the spirit through Mission Dec. 20 with extravagant lights and decorations.

The most famous reindeer of all didn’t make an appearance, however, reindeer still played a role as cars and trucks put lights and other decorations on their vehicles. Nine vehicles and two emergency response rigs were in the parade.

One Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation (CTUIR) Tribal police vehicle and one CTUIR fire truck led the parade.

Just behind the first responders were the Happy Canyon Princesses Tayler Craig and Sequoia Conner, followed by the rest of the pack.

Before the parade started, the Mission Longhouse was the place to meet to set up and decorate floats as well as light up the Christmas tree that was inside.

After the parade, everyone went inside the Longhouse to have hot chocolate, sandwiches and soup. Together kids sang Christmas songs and played games of tag and duck-duck-goose.

About three dozen young people attended the Christmas Light Parade.

The event was a community effort led by Cor Sams.

Briannah Matamoros, laying down, Penelope Gavin, Tegan Herrera and Areas Cowapoo pose with the Christmas tree after they participated in the Christmas Light Parade.

Photos by Lennox Lewis of the CUJ

Julianah Matamoros handed hot chocolate to Marlene Taylor.

From left, unknown, Annalise Watchman, Aniah Watchman, Shawndein Salt, Denise MorningOwl, Lillian Watchman, Tamamnu Salt, Naomi Wildbill (holding Joylynn Salt), Rosaella Salt, Colleen Wildbill (back), Areas Cowapoo, Bryson Bronson, Tegan Herrera and Hiyuum Nowland.

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Confederated Umatilla Journal

January 2018

News & Sports The monthly newspaper of the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation ~ Pendleton, Oregon

Section

B

January 2018

NCS girls run streak to 38 By the CUJ MISSION – Heading into 2018 and the meat of the Old Oregon League schedule, the Nixyaawii Community School girls were undefeated with a 40-game winning streak dating back to last year’s unbeaten state championship season.

The Golden Eagles girls were 11-0 at the end of the year with two conference tests facing them the first week of January – against Echo on Jan. 4 and Powder Valley on Jan. 5.

Nixyaawii, which was defeating teams by an average of 47 points, was ranked number 1 in a Class 1A Coaches poll. Powder Valley was ranked number 2. A third Old Oregon League team – Joseph – was ranked fourth.

In the first half of the season, which included one conference game, a 92-26 win over Wallowa, the numbers said it all for Nixyaawii.

The girls averaged 74 points a game with a high of 92 against Wallowa plus an 89-16 win over Ione and an 84-25 victory over South Wasco.

Nixyaawii also recorded wins over Class 2A Stanfield, 64-19, and over Class 3A Umatilla, 78-29.

Nixyaawii girls on page 7B

Boys start 9-2 By the CUJ MISSION – With just a pair of seniors on the team, the Nixyaawii Community School (NCS) Golden Eagles boys’ basketball team may look like a bunch of over achievers, but you might want to look again.

You can’t judge this group of players by their ages.

Think basketball IQ and experience on the court and you’ll have a better idea why Coach Shane Rivera’s team is 9-2 as Old Oregon League play gets underway. NCS was to play Echo Thursday, Jan. 4, and Powder Valley Friday, Jan. 5, in the Eagles Nest on the Umatilla Indian Reservation.

Experience doesn’t always mean maturity, however.

One of the losses, against Class 3A Umatilla, was a heart-breaker for Class 1A Nixyaawii, which took an eight-point lead into the fourth quarter, but couldn’t score until the final seconds of the game. Umatilla outscored the Golden Eagles 15-3 and escaped with a 61-57 victory.

“We didn’t stick with the game plan,” Coach Rivera said. “We had the lead and we were taking shots we didn’t need to take. It comes with maturity.”

Rivera said it was a learning experience for the young team.

“They knew they blew it,” he said. “It’s a good group; Nixyaawii boys on page 7B

Tony Barnett, Lead Investigator with the Department of Children and Family Services, carries two bicycles from the Bikes for Tykes program. Indian Eyes LLC donated 45 bikes for children here. Story and photos on page 8B.

Tyasin Burns, a freshman point guard for Nixyaawii Community School, flies to the basket in a game against Umatilla High School.

CUJ photo/Phinney

A Look Back At 2017 Page 12 & 13

Eagle Williams, right, poses with teammates from IronBorn, the powerlifting squad he competes with.

Read the story on page 6B.

CUJ Sports

Mary Stewart, one of four seniors returning from last year’s Class 1A State Championship team, steals the ball midcourt from the Umatilla Vikings guards.

CUJ photo/Phinney

NCS girls run record to 38-0 as new year begins

Milan Schimmel is the leading scorer for the Golden Eagles with a 23.7-points-per-game average. Her high point game was 31 against South Wasco.

She also scored 29 against Ione. The team is averaging 74 points a game.

CUJ photo/Phinney

Ermia Butler goes high for a jump ball in a game in December. The Nixyaawii Community School girls clobbered their opponents in pre-season, winning their games before the year’s end by an average of 47 points. CUJ photo/Lennox Lewis

2B

Nobody takes the ball away from Kylie Mountainchief once she gets hold of it. Mountainchief has been a steady defender and rebounder off the bench for Coach Jeremy Maddern, who said all his younger players have elevated their game playing with the four senior returners from last year’s state championship squad.

CUJ photo/Phinney

Mary Stewart loops the ball up and over defenders toward the basket in a game played in December. Stewart is averaging 19 points, around eight assists and as many rebounds a game.

CUJ photo/Dallas Dick

Confederated Umatilla Journal

January 2018

CUJ Sports Natives lead Buckaroos

Pendleton High School’s starting point guard Dakota Sams, a 6-foot freshman, dribbles past a Lewiston defender during a game at Warberg Court in Pendleton Dec. 12.

Tyler Newsome, a 6-foot 4-inch junior guard/forward for the Pendleton High School Buckaroos, drives around a Lewiston defender. Newsome has consistently been a leading scorer for the team. Newsome led the Buckaroos with 19 points Jan. 2 against the Dallas Dragons in a 57-47 win that stopped a two-game skid for PHS. Dakota Sams scored 11 and Kason Broncheau added a point.

Uliyanna Guerrero, a 5-foot 4-inch junior guard, races past Lewiston’s Alyssa Ralstin in a game played in Pendleton on Dec. 12. Guerrero and Megan George, both members of the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation, play on the Pendleton High School varsity squad. George, a 5-8 junior wing, has been out with an injury.

Kason Broncheau makes a pass around and through Lewiston Bengal defenders in the first half of Pendleton High School’s win over Lewiston in early December.

CUJ photos/Phinney

January 2018

Confederated Umatilla Journal

3B

NCS boys go 9-2 early

Reacting to a teammate canning a three, Nixyaawii Community School boys include, from left, Mick Schimmel, Deven Barkley, Magi Moses, Wilbur Oatman, Quanah Picard, Dazon Sigo, Noah Enright, Coach Alan Crawford, Coach Ken Mayfield and Coach Aaron Ashley. The Nixyaawii boys finished the pre-season 9-2 with one of their losses coming against Class 3A Umatilla. They defeated Class 2A Pilot Rock in overtime and Class 2A Stanfield.

CUJ photo/Dallas Dick

Deven Barkley is averaging 10.7 points, eight rebounds and 4 assists a game for the Nixyaawii Community School Golden Eagles, which have put together a 9-2 record as the Old Oregon League play gets underway.

The team has one league win under its belt, crushing Wallowa 86-40. In that game a dozen boys scored.

CUJ photos/Phinney

Mick Schimmel glides to the basket in a game played at Eastern Oregon University in La Grande in December. Schimmel, a sophomore, is averaging 19 points, 7 rebounds and 6 CUJ photo/Dallas Dick assists., He had a 10-assist night against South Wasco.

4B

Dazon Sigo works inside against Umatilla defenders in Nixyaawii’s heartbreaking loss to the Class 3A squad from across the county. The Golden Eagles came from behind to knot the score after one quarter, took a 34-28 lead, and led by eight going into the final frame. The boys were shooting 60 percent in the first three quarters but went ice cold in the fourth and didn’t score until Tyasin Burns hit a three in the waning seconds of the game. Sigo is averaging 6 points and 7.5 rebounds a game.

Confederated Umatilla Journal

January 2018

CUJ Sports Jada Burns hits 1,000 point mark

By Alexis Mansanarez of the East Oregonian

IRRIGON — During Irrigon girls basketball head coach Mike Royer’s extensive career, he has coached only a handful of players who reached the 1,000-point milestone — all of whom, until Dec. 16, were from his years at Hermiston.

There’s a certain kind of player how can accomplish this feat, Royer explained.

“It takes just consistency and you don’t see that very often,” he said.

It also takes years on the court at the varsity level to aid in the process. All of which are components of Irrigon senior Jada Burns’ game.

The three-sport star athlete recently became the first Knight in the girls basketball program to notch 1,000 career points, and for Burns, a member of the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation, it was just like any other game.

“I was just wanting to win and it happened,” Burns said Irrigon’s game against La Grande, where her 10-point performance helped eclipse a career milestone that she had been working towards the past three years.

Burns’ freshman year in 2014-15 was her first as the starting point guard for the Knights and it was also Royer’s first year at the helm of the program. That year, Irrigon finished 7-13 overall and Burns earned first team all-Columbia Basin Conference honors after she scored 258 points, an average of 12.9 per game.

The following year, again with Burns leading the team on the court and Royer calling plays from the sideline, the team added two wins to its total, ending 11-13 overall. This was Irrigon’s final year competing in Class 2A and Burns’ output dramatically increased and turned in 360 points as a sophomore, or 15 per game, once again earning herself first team all-Columbia Basin Conference honors and third team all-state honors. That year, Burns led her team to the district championship over WestonMcEwen.

‘You start at the beginning and you have to work your way up and you just realize you want to win and you’ll do anything to win and if it wasn’t for my teammates I definitely would never have gotten where I’ve gotten.’

Jada Burns, point guard for the Irrigon Knights, was recognized in December for scoring 1,000 points in her basketball career.

Below, with help from teammate Anna Zacharias, Jada holds a banner recognizing her accomplishment. Jada is the daughter of Julia Burns and an enrolled member of the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation.

And last season in Irrigon’s first go in Class 3A, Burns met the tougher competition head on and kept producing night in and night out. She scored 345 points, an average of 15.7 per game, and led the Knights to a winning record (12-10) and was the only junior to earn first team all-Eastern Oregon League honors.

Burns has opened this season with 115 points so far, and is one pace to add at least 150 more to her total by season’s end.

Her early success has been a catalyst for the team, which started the year undefeated before heading into Saturday’s (Dec. 16) matchup. But a 44-39 loss to the Tigers stained the Knights’ record.

Burns’ accomplishment wasn’t overshadowed by the loss, but it was a hard pill to swallow. The defeat could have turned out to be another tally in the win column, but with Burns suffering from an illness she was not at her best.

“I honestly think if Jada would have been healthy we might have had a shot at beating them because honestly, she shouldn’t have even played,” Royer said.

But playing through pain just comes with the territory.

“You just have to say it’s for the team and fight through it,” Burns said. “I mean, it was hard to go out there and feel like you couldn’t move and couldn’t breathe but I did what was best for the team.”

As an all-league shortstop in softball, the junior varsity quarterback and varsity backup as a senior, and an all-league volleyball player, Burns has spent many years on the court, on the field and in the dirt.

Each experience building on one another, giving Burns confidence and increasing her athletic ability and smarts.

“It just took a lot of confidence,” Burns said on reaching the milestone. “You start at the beginning and you have to work your way up and you just realize you want to win and you’ll do anything to win and if it wasn’t for my teammates I definitely would never have gotten where I’ve gotten. We build as a team.”

Burns’ success has elevated the level of play across the Knights’ 11-player roster. Now, in her senior year instead of racking up the buckets she’s looking more to dish out assists to her teammates than she has in the past, and still more often than not is leading the team in points after its all said and done.

“This year (Jada) has been a leader for us in assists and just getting us set up and handling pressure,” Royer said. “We always look to Jada and as a coach, it’s been really nice having someone like her as a point guard the past four years.

“I mean, she knows how to score,” he added.

“She’s a good scoring threat, and she just knows basketball. She’s a smart basketball player, and is going to have a good senior year too.”

Contact Alexis at amansanarez@eastoregonian.com or 541-564-4542. Follow her on Twitter @almansanarez.

Save the Date : What: Language Knowledge Bowl When: May 24 Where: Wildhorse Resort & Casino Who: Hosted by the Language Program of the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation Note: More info. to come. Stay updated on Facebook : Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation, Confederated Umatilla Journal, and KCUW-LP Pendleton

January 2018

Confederated Umatilla Journal

5B

POWER LIFTING Eagle Williams ‘IronBorn’ to hoist weight By the CUJ

LAWTON, Oklahoma – Donald “Eagle” Williams started working out with weights 10 years ago to prevent diabetes, but training became an obsession and now he’s part of a power lifting team that competes around Oklahoma.

Williams, an enrolled member of the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation (CTUIR), is part of the Conner and Williams families. Raised in Lawton, Okla., where he is also a member of the Kiowa Tribe of Oklahoma, Williams is the grandson of Donald and Antoinette Williams.

The father of two sons – Trevor and Tryston, Williams lived on the Umatilla Reservation for 10 years where he worked for the Environmental Rights Protection Program in the Department of Natural Resources for the CTUIR. His sister is Dr. Robin Minthorn, a professor at the University of New Mexico.

She is married to CTUIR member Gabe Minthorn; they reside in Albuquerque, N.M. Williams, 43, started lifting at the age of 33 to prevent becoming a diabetic because he knew his family was susceptible to the disease. At the same time, he was studying dialysis in patient care and the bio-med field. He saw the progression of end stage renal disease which is caused by diabetes.

That made him stick with lifting but it soon became apparent that he needed to “almost become narcissistic” to progress in the sport.

“I had been training for almost seven years and didn’t quite know what for, other than staying healthy, but once I got introduced to powerlifting I was hooked as most do once you understand the big three – squat, bench and deadlift,” Williams wrote in an email.

Williams was motivated by a friend, Tim Johnson, who started a native group of athletes called Warriors United. Williams is part of Johnson’s group representing Iron Born powerlifting team.

In Lawton, Williams lifts with a number of outstanding athletes, whose names he quickly rattles off … Ray Ortiz, owner of HIT Gym, a “hardcore powerlifting gym” where he trains; Mirrelle McGee, (a member of the Iron Born team under his own crew called “Ape Gang”) who has recently deadlifted 680 pounds; Saifoloi Anoai, who has been invited to the world powerlifting competition in America Samoa in 2019 after deadlifting 772 pounds

City of Joseph looking for Plateau Indian artist JOSEPH - The Josephy Center for Arts and Culture in Joseph, Oregon, is offering a prize of $25,000 to a Plateau Indian artist for a threedimensional work to go on Main Street.

6B

‘From blood, sweat and tears – torn skin and bloody shins, once you grip that bar for the first time you’re hooked, you’re IronBorn.’

Above, Eagle Williams, an enrolled member of the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation, dead lifts 489.2 pounds at a Stillwater, Oklahoma, meet in December. At left, Williams, front left, poses with members of his IronBorn powerlifting team.

Williams has created a clothing line called IronBorn Platform Apparel.

Contributed photos

and squatting more than 700 pounds in December.

The group Williams lifts with ranges from medical to military personnel.

“It shows the diversity of people who enjoy the sport itself,” Williams said.

“Powerlifting has people from all walks of life but ultimately we all cheer for each other when we are on that platform because we all share that drive and determination. And we have all put in the hours training, tearing our skin, and scraping our shins to obtain a PR (personal record).

That’s our end goal for our obsession – competing with ourselves to outdo what you did last meet.”

The city is named after the Nez Perce leader, as is its annual rodeo. None of the current bronzes on Joseph’s Main Street - four of them depicting Indians - is the work of an Indian artist.

With a major grant from the Oregon Community Foundation’s “Creative Heights” program, the Josephy Center for Arts and Culture will select a Plateau Indian artist to give his or her work a place in the city. The grant includes an artist’s award of $25,000 and funds for art casting or construction.

The IronBorn unit is comprised of Eagle Williams and teammates from Oklahoma – Saifoilo Anoai, Mirelle McGee, Arnulfo Toledo, Josh Wilson, Josh Williams, Tay Pierce, Harli Atteberry, “Action” Jack Berry, and Michelle Oller, as well as Big Jon Medina from Texas.

“This comprises the nucleus of our squad. It’s an awesome group of lifters who I’ve had the pleasure to share the platform with and compete with,” said Williams, adding that the team is sponsored by Daniel Mastus and Kintsugi Corporation, the owner of a new night Club, Brix.

The significance of team competition

It is a three-step process. First, interested artists should write a letter and send a portfolio, or at least five photos of recent work and an artist’s resume, to the Josephy Center by Jan. 15.

If there is public art in the portfolio, artists should give places and dates of installation. These can be submitted in the mail to Josephy Center, PO Box 949, Joseph, Oregon 97846, or electronically to rich.wandschneider@gmail.com.

Second, on Feb. 15, three artists will be given $1,000 each and have until March 30 to

Confederated Umatilla Journal

in powerlifting is based on a “Wilks” score, which is based on a matrix that factors the weight of lifters and the weight lifted. It also determines rankings in the U.S. Powerlifting Association (USPA), which is a nationwide powerlifting organization and a stepping-stone to the International Power Lifting competition that includes worldwide events.

Last year Saifoloi Anoai won four gold medals and two trophies and was the overall best male lifter at an international competition.

Williams said his IronBorn squad has been fortunate to compete against some of the country’s best, including Dennis Cornelius, who earlier in December had a 902-pound unofficial squat record attempt. His team also has competed against Josh Nooner, who heads the Oklahoma USPA and has shown strong support for the IronBorn team.

“The whole organization is great and family-oriented in that we all support and look forward to seeing each other at the next meet,” Williams said. “All in all Oklahoma and in particular Lawton has some genuinely strong and knowledgeable powerlifters and everyone supports and helps each other and we are blessed to have the gyms, the people, and the passion for the sport our area encapsulates.”

Recently, Williams has won two first-place medals in men’s submaster’s meets and the team one a second place in Stillwater, Okla.

Williams has created a clothing line that is called IronBorn Platform Apparel, which has this mission statement: “From blood, sweat and tears – torn skin and bloody shins, once you grip that bar for the first time you’re hooked, you’re IronBorn.”

The line includes hats, hoodies and shirts, but Williams plans to branch out and include other platform apparel for not only powerlifting but bodybuilding, fitness/figure shows, Olympic lifting – anything performed on a platform.

“The brand is universal but gets its roots in powerlifting,” Williams said.

develop proposals for the artwork and its place on Main Street.

Third, on April 10, one artist will receive one-third of the $25,000 and begin a year-long process of creating the work. The remainder of the award money will be presented at midway and finishing points.

For further questions, please contact Rich Wandschneider at 541-432-0505, or email rich. wandschneider@gmail.com.

January 2018

Nixyaawii girls Continued from page 1B

Perhaps even more telling are the team’s halftime scores. The Golden Eagles averaged 45 points in the first two quarters of every game with a high of 62 against Wallowa.

Four seniors, as expected, are leading the team in scoring categories. Milan Schimmel, with a high game of 31 against South Wasco, is averaging 23.7 points a game, followed by Mary Stewart averaging 19. Stewart’s high game – 28 points – also came against South Wasco. Kaitlynn Melton is chipping in 9.2 and EllaMae Looney is adding 6.7 points a game.

Other statistics weren’t available, but Nixyaawii fans can easily see that Stewart and then Schimmel lead the assist charts.

Both are likely averaging 6-8 assists a game and Stewart likely would have three or four more a game if teammates could handle her passes or convert under the hoop.

Stewart, Schimmel and Melton are yanking down rebounds, but junior Ermia Butler has found her footing in the key.

She had a game-high 17 boards against South Wasco Dec. 28 in Helix.

Schimmel and Stewart, with Looney nearby, are wreaking havoc on defense and lead the team with probably four or five steals apiece each game.

There hasn’t been a lot for Coach Jeremy Maddern to talk about so far this year.

The competition hasn’t been too stiff.

However, Maddern says the scores “have a lot more to do with how we’re playing than a lack of competition.”

Maddern said he’d be concerned if the

Nixyaawii boys Continued from page 1B

they play hard. They don’t say a lot but they understand the game. They’ve been playing basketball their whole lives and they understand what we’re talking about.”

What we’re talking about is a team that’s averaging 72 points a game and holding opponents to 47. Three times NCS has scored in 90s and twice more in the 80s. In one of those games, Nixyaawii took Pilot Rock, a Class 2A team, into overtime before winning 81-71, outscoring the Rockets 10-2 in the extra period. Those 10 points included six free throws.

The leading scorers on the team are Mick Schimmel with a 19-point average and a high game of 28 against Pilot Rock in the OT game, Quanah Picard with a 12.8-point average and a high game of 21

Happy 80th Birthday Dad/Papa!

Pendleton’s first baby of 1938

Stanley Peasrson Alexander Born: January 1,1938 Love, your family

January 2018

girls weren’t playing so sharp.

“The way we’re passing the ball, our execution with our half-court offense … it’s not concerning,” the Coach said. “We’re moving the ball well. We’re rebounding really well.”

Maddern said the team’s assist-toturnover ratio is two-to-one.

Maddern is impressed with the unselfish play of Stewart, who likely could put 40 up if she wanted to.

“Mary is always averaging seven or eight assists,” Maddern said. “It’s because she’s having more confidence in her teammates and doesn’t feel like she has to do everything.”

Schimmel is so good defenders don’t know until halfway through the first quarter if she’s left handed or right handed.

She dribbles and shoots with each equally well.

“Her outside shot is tremendously better this year,” Maddern said. “She worked hard on her game this summer and you can tell.”

Butler, Maddern said, is providing a big boost inside with rebounding and defense.

Her rebounding, he said, “is why we’re able to get out and run.”

Even the younger kids are playing better, said Maddern.

“They’ve all elevated their games being around the seniors,” Maddern said.

“Those girls zip their passes and the young kids know they better be ready.”

The Old Oregon League District Tournament will be played in Baker City Feb 15-17.

The Class 1A State Tournament also will be played in Baker City Feb. 28-March 3.

against Ione, and Deven Barkley with a 10.7-point average and a high game of 21 against Pilot Rock.

Also on the charts, Noah Enright is averaging 7 points a game while Tyasin Burns, Dazon Sigo and Magi Moses are each averaging about 6.

Burns, a quick freshman point guard, finished off 2017 with games of 15 and 14 points to boost his average.

In their last game of the year, Nixyaawii was actually down 17-8 after the first period, then outscored Ione 83-30 in the final three graphs.

There’s more to come, Rivera said.

“There’s a lot more upside for sure,” he said. “We’ll know our roles more by the end of the season. Burns is just coming on. Mick (Schimmel) is healthy. Actually I think he’s still a little rusty so he still has some upside, too.”

Happy Birthday Shay Love Mom, Oske, Pete, Frances, Ekillian Chalakee Family in Oklahoma

EMPLOYEES OF THE MONTH!

Jennifer Cross, Finance

Rob Gentner, Shuttle Lead Driver

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Hector Jimenez Zaballa, Hotel Valet

Hector has some of the best customer service I have ever seen in my life! His response is always “my pleasure!” You can tell that he really loves his job and it shines through his service.

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Confederated Umatilla Journal

7B

Community Wellness Renewed by the Grace of God I am 44 years old, an enrolled member of the CTUIR and a paraplegic. I use a wheelchair on a daily basis in order to live life. In April of 2013, I was involved in a single car, drunk driving accident. According to police reports, the vehicle hit loose gravel at a high speed causing the vehicle to lose control and roll. I was in the back seat until I was ejected and tossed from the vehicle. It was a night that would change my life. Due to the accident, I had to have a trach in my throat to assist me to breathe. I broke my sternum, seven ribs, my neck up by my shoulders and broke my back in the L1 (lower) region causing my paralysis. I was under an induced coma and, on a dayto-day basis of whether or not I survive, all due to a night of drinking and drunk driving.

By the grace of God and the many prayers sent out by loved ones, I’m still here today.

Now to this day, I have slowly healed and recovered from the accident but remain in my chair which is a daily reminder of that night over four years ago. While I was focusing on healing and recovering my body physically, I neglected to focus on my addiction to alcohol. Due to my continued addiction, I’ve been in and out of the hospital and nursing facilities recovering my body from near death – once again.

I would begin to binge drink every time I would get home and neglect my health.

I would get serious infections that get into my blood stream and affect my whole body.

Kidney failure, liver failure and infected pressure sores that affected the bone. My body would become vitamin deficient and dependent on alcohol. I went through DT’s where I had continuous shaking, mumbled, couldn’t see straight, unaware of who you were and didn’t know where I was at. I began to bald and even lost the function of my left hand. Once again, by the grace of the living God and through many prayers, I am still here.

This past summer on July 9th, I once again landed in the hospital due to an infection in my body and infected pressure sore.

I spend three months in the hospital this time but, because I put it in God’s hands, I came home on October 3rd completely healed. By the time this hits the stands, I’m hoping and praying that I will be celebrating “six months of sobriety.” Because I serve a mighty God, a Loving God and a Forgiving God, I will be able to spend the holidays at home for the first time in four years! I am forever thankful and grateful for all the prayers that have been sent. If you have doubts that prayer are not heard, I’m here to testify that God does hear them. Don’t’ stop believing and continue to have faith.

You’re never too old and it’s never too late to make a change in your life.

2 Corinthians 5:17 means that anyone who belongs to Christ becomes a new person. The old life is gone and ta new life has begun!

Darrell Enick Mission Assembly of God Paid advertisement

Recycle & save the Earth for future generations 8B

Tony Barnett, top left, waves to the camera among little bicycles donated by Indian Eyes LLC for foster children on the Umatilla Indian Reservation.

Others who helped bring the bikes in from the Indian Eyes trailer included, from left, Julie Taylor, Dana Quaempts, Danielle Broncheau, Gabe Bohnee from Indian Eyes, Lauren “Kootsie” Burke, Lisa Ganuelas, Travis Eastwood and Tiffany Rodriguez.

Foster kids get Bikes for Tykes MISSION – Foster children on the Umatilla Indian Reservation received new bicycles thanks to Indian Eyes LLC, a woman- and native-owned company from Pasco, Washington, that donated 45 bikes in December.

Gabe Bohnee, a Nez Perce Indian who works as a government and tribal affairs specialist for Indian Eyes, brought a trailer packed with 150 little bicycles of all colors and sizes, some with training wheels, destined for the Umatilla, Yakama and Nez Perce reservations, and to children of the Wanapum Band in Washington.

Indian Eyes was able to contribute the bicycles because it was a sponsor of the annual Bikes for Tykes event in Tri-Cities. This year more than a thousand people volunteered to assemble some 1,650 bicycles in a day-long effort at the Benton County Fairgrounds.

Indian Eyes LLC is a state contractor that provides security, professional staffing resources, equipment logistics, records management, construction management, construction and remedial services, construction independent engineering and compliance.

Among awards, Indian Eyes LLC was among 2014 Top 25 Largest Minority Companies of Washington State and 2013 National Native American Business Owner of the Year.

The corporate office is in Pasco. Other locations are in Virginia Beach, Virginia; Longmont, Colorado; and Aiken, South Carolina. The business employs about 50 people around the country.

Lisa Ganuelas leads a pair of pink bicycles toward the Nixyaawii Governance Center from the Indian Eyes LLC trailer while Gabe Bohnee and Julie Taylor look on. Travis Eastwood gets the next bikes ready.

Tony Barnett carries bicycles while Travis Eastwood and Gabe Bohnee grab bikes from the stack and Lauren “Kootsie” Burke waits to haul more into Nixyaawii Governance Center.

Confederated Umatilla Journal

January 2018

Entertaining some 650 people at the Pendleton Holiday Music Festival were Tribal drummers, from left, Lucas Arellanes, Deven Barkley, Fred Hill, Charles Wood III, and Kelsey Burns. Dancers included, from left, Logan Quaempts, Acosia Red Elk, and Karie Harris. Not pictured is Kellen Joseph.

(Contributed photo)

Dancers delight Holiday Music Festival goers PENDLETON – A foursome of danc- the Umatilla Indian Reservation. ers, including world champion Acosia The drum also provided winter round Red Elk, were “incredibly well received” dance songs of the Canadian First Naat the Holiday Music Festival, which tions Cree People using hand drums drew 650 people to the Vert Auditorium for dancers. Joining Red Elk, an eighttime jingle-dance world in Pendleton Dec. 10.

The Festival featured champion, were danc‘People said the the Oregon East Symers Katie Harris, Kellen Joseph and Logan phony & Chorale, the dancing made this Quaempts.

Pendleton Men’s Choa true community J.D. Kindle, Execurus, and the Eastern Ormusical event.’ tive Director of the Oregon Community Big - J.D. Kindle, Band. egon East Symphony, Oregon East Symphony It also featured Our said the dancers were a Songs Are Alive, orgalate addition but “very welcome.” Before each nized and directed by Fred Hill, Sr., a fluent speaker of Umatil- of five songs, Hill or Red Elk provided la/Yakama language, a pow-wow singer a preamble providing context for the and emcee. Hill is a language and culture significance of the song and/or dance. teacher at Nixyaawii Community School “It was incredibly well received,” said Kindle. “For symphony purposes it on the Umatilla Indian Reservation.

It was the second appearance for Our was the largest audience we’ve seen in Songs Are Alive at the Holiday Music years and we received a lot of feedback Festival. Joining Hill on the big drum from regular patrons there for that one with Northern Pow-wow style songs concert. There was universal praise for were Charles Wood III, Kelsey Burns, participants from the tribes for this conDeven Barkley and Lucus Arellanes, all cert. People said the dancing made this a members of the Confederated Tribes of true community musical event.”

Mission Assembly of God Assistant Pastor Harold Enick 541-371-1429 Sundays

6 p.m. - Evening Service

Come, Share Your Testimony!

January 2018

INDEPENDENT LIVING A Global Disability Resource and Advocacy Center EOCIL is a proud supporter of the CTUIR community and other communities and programs that promote and value inclusion, equality and opportunities for people with disabilities. EOCIL is a global disability resource and advocacy center that provides an array of services for people with disabilities.

EOCIL is operated by people with disabilities.

Services Available: - Informational and Referral - Independent Living Skills Training (budgeting and financial management, cooking, application assistance, etc.)

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Confederated Umatilla Journal

www.eocil.org

9B

NCS releases first quarter award list Nixyaawii Community School has released awards for the first quarter, which ended Oct. 26.

Perfect attendance – Alexia Laib, Jared Wildbill, Austin Ancheta, Carissa Yallup.

Honor roll (3.5 or higher with * designating 4.0) – Austin Ancheta, Deven Barkley, Zoe Bevis, Ermia Butler, Noah Enright, Ivory Herrera, Alexia Laib, Ella Mae Looney, Allyson Maddern, Kaytlynn Mclean, Cloe McMichael *, Kylie Mountainchief, Alizaya Ortega, Mick Schimmel*, Milan Schimmel*, Dazon Sigo, Tyanna Vanpelt*, Kaitlynn Wiley*, Beto Zamudio.

Principal’s award – Noah Enright.

Most improved – Deontae Johnson, Carissa Yallup.

Citizenship award – Jayden Bryant, Greg Durfey, Adilia Hart.

Lunch assistant – Keala Vanhorn, Tristalynn Melton.

Outstanding Umatilla language student – D’Andre Rodriguez, Lillian Star, Tristalynn Melton, Ryan Yallup.

Mrs. Perkins – Most improved student – Isaiah Pacheco; Outstanding history student – Deontae Johnson; Outstanding science student – Zoe Bevis.

Mrs. Vanpelt – Outstanding Language Keeper Award – Ella Mae Looney; Ambassador of the Year – Ermia Butler; Excellence in Arts – Kylie Mountainchief, Sophia Totus, Tyanna Van Pelt; Most improved – Tanaya Totus; Excellence in Arts and Graphic Design – Susie Patrick.

How do you like my car?

Ian Sampson, Cassandra Hall, Kelsey Burns, Logan Quaempts, Tayler Craig and Eric Gabriel wave to an imaginary person to their right while they drove their dream cars during a hypnosis performance by Mariana Matthews, “The Lady Hypnotist,” who can be seen in the background.

Matthews was the main performer Dec. 15 for a Yellowhawk Tribal Health Center employee event at Wildhorse Resort & Casino. Matthews picked 10 people from the audience when she began her hypnosis, but when Cece Stanger fell into a trance in the crowd she was brought to the stage as well. Throughout the performance the participants danced, pretended to be fish or different people such as Elvis Presley, Michael Jackson and Bruno Mars. Participants also heard music coming from their shoes.

CUJ photo/Lennox Lewis

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Confederated Umatilla Journal

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Listen up people January 2018

Toastmasters plan open house Jan. 31 MISSION – The Cay-Uma-Wa Toastmasters will host an open house Jan. 31 at the Wildhorse Resort & Casino from noon to 1 p.m.

The open house gives potential members the opportunity to see what Toastmasters is all about, participate in club activities, and ask questions. Light refreshments will be served and door prizes will be handed out.

Toastmasters is an international program with a goal of improving communication, leadership and evaluation skills. For further inquiries, contact Leigh Pinkham-Johnston at 541-215-2724 or at LeighPinkham-Johnston@ctuir.org.

Smith receives PHS Citizens Cup Award PENDLETON – Denae Smith, member of theYakima Nation, has received the 2018 Citizenship Cup Award from Pendleton High School (PHS).

Being one of PHS’s oldest awards, it has been presented to students from each class every year since 1925. The students who receive the award are selected by teachers and peers for their scholastic achievements, volunteerism, community service, and participation in extracurricular activities. Smith’s name will be engraved on a large cup that is located in the trophy case area in the main lobby of PHS.

Hoptowit graduates from U of Hawaii Raymond Anthony Hoptowit graduated from the University of Hawaii at Manoa on Dec. 18. He earned a Master’s Degree in bio-engineering. Raymond is the son of James Hoptowit, a member of the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation.

Lunch group schedules Women’s March Jan. 20 PENDLETON – The Lunch and Crunch group is planning a Women’s March Jan. 20 starting at 1 p.m. from the Pendleton City Hall and Library, 500 SW Dorion Avenue.

The group is seeking volunteers.

To help, or for more information, contact Vickie Hendicks at the Lunch and Crunch meetings at Sisters Restaurant on Main Street from noon until 1:30 p.m. every Wednesday, or go to Blue Mountain OR Marchers Facebook page.

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Confederated Umatilla Journal

11B

CUJ - A Look Back at 2017 Achievement in Historic Preservation.

JANUARY

The position of Deputy Executive Director (DED) was eliminated by the BOT. Prior to the departure of Executive Director (ED) Dave Tovey, Deb Croswell was the Deputy Executive Director for nearly 14 years. She is currently the Interim Executive Director. (Croswell resigned as DED in December and as of this writing the CTUIR had no executive director.)

Fuel pumps, a major remodel, and solar panel energy were announced for Mission Market to make the community store self-sustaining and profitable.

Wildhorse Hotel Manager Cal Tyer, working as Retail Strategies Team Leader, said the remodeled store could open in early June with the fuel pumping by mid-July.

“That would be the best case scenario,” Tyer said.

(None of this has happened.)

A dozen railroad cars – at least three carrying hazardous material – derailed near Bingham Road about 20 miles east of Mission.

Union Pacific reported no spills and no injuries.

A Union Pacific train derailed near Bingham Road about 20 miles east of Mission in January.

Thousands of Rocky Mountain elk were pushed down from their homes in the forested hills onto the flats looking for easier pickings when ice-crusted snow made foraging difficult.

As soon as the snow melted most of the elk returned to the mountains, but some pockets of as many as 100 animals or more have stayed around.

Princesses Gabriella Lewis and Virginia Conner were officially introduced to the public during the Happy Canyon Announcement Party Jan. 21 at the Pendleton Convention Center.

Former Princesses Appollonia Saenz and Elena Van Pelt gave advice to the Princesses, telling them to enjoy their time because the year will “go by fast.”

FEBRUARY Kat Brigham returned to her job as Secretary of the BOT following a special election to replace David Close, who voters recalled in November of 2016. Brigham won the Secretary election with 150 votes, which represented 33 percent of the ballots cast.

A 60-unit housing project and a 50,000-to-60,000 square foot education center were announced for construction on the 30-acre Bowman Property.

The Bowman property won out over two other housing sites – East Bench, also known as Wyit View, and the Nagel site.

The Ancient One was quickly buried on the morning of Saturday, Feb. 18, with more than 220 observers, the woman in shawls and robes and blankets on the south side, and the men on the north side. Many tears flowed for relief and happiness to witness the Ancient One, commonly known as Kennewick Man, returned to his resting place after two decades of court challenges and scientific study.

Dave Tovey for the second time in 30 years resigned his position as executive director for the CTUIR. Tovey, a CTUIR member who started his work for the Tribes as a planner in September of 1986, served as executive director until February of 2002 when he resigned and took a similar job for the Coos, Lower Umpqua and Siuslaw Tribes in Coos Bay. He returned to the CTUIR to replace Don Sampson on April 1, 2011.

The BOT announced that Deputy Executive Director Debra Croswell will serve as interim executive director and Communications Department Director Chuck Sams will serve as interim deputy executive director.

Youth Council members for 2017 were sworn in at the Nixyaawii Governance Center as many of their family, friends, and Tribal employees observed.

Kelsey Burns, former Cultural Ambassador and 2014 Chair of the CTUIR Tribal Youth Council, gifted new Cultural Ambassador Beto Zamudio and Chair Vincent Sheoships medallions to show his support and encouragement in their new roles.

A total of 14 young people are currently serving on the board.

MARCH The Nixyaawii Golden Eagles girls basketball team went unbeaten on their way to win the Oregon Class 1A State Title in Baker City. The girls led Country Christian 42-19 at halftime so there was little question as to who the state champions would be.

Behind Player of the Year Mary Stewart, the Golden Eagles were 29-0 this year.

In the title game, Stewart finished with 34 points (28 in the first half), seven steals, six rebounds, three assists and three blocked shots. Firsttournament all-star Milan Schimmel added 14 points, seven rebounds and three steals, and Kaitlynn Melton had 10 points and eight rebounds.

(All three seniors, plus another - Ella Mae Looney - are back this year and the team so far is unbeaten.)

A bright inviting atmosphere and new state-of-the-art equipment greeted exercise enthusiasts when they opened the key-lock door to the remodeled Nixyaawii Fitness Center.

New equipment includes a leg extension/leg curl machine, leg press,

12B

A project to restore riverine and floodplain habitat along a onemile stretch of Catherine Creek in the Grande Ronde Basin in northeast Oregon received a Stream Project Award from the Department of State Lands in a ceremony at the state capitol.

Nixyaawii Community School Golden Eagles won the Class 1A Girls Basketball State Championship in March. elliptical, SciFit products, Precor FTS Glide Trainer, StairMaster Stepmill, and two treadmills. Also added are two new benches, a rack for weighted balls, six small TVs and two larger TVs. The Wildhorse Foundation, a community benefit fund established by the CTUIR to support organizations in northeastern Oregon and southeastern Washington, passed the $10 million mark.

Since its inception in 2001, the Foundation has distributed almost $10.3 million to more than 1,750 local and regional non-profits.

APRIL Justin Quaempts, an at-large member of the Board of Trustees, resigned after being away from the job about two months.

Quaempts was re-elected to a second term in November of 2016 with the most votes of any candidate. He was re-elected as an at-large member, but also took on the duties of BOT Secretary when David Close was recalled in October of 2016.

Cayuse Technologies (CT) expanded past the Umatilla Indian Reservation into Salt Lake City, Utah.

CT purchased Informatech - a recruitment and staffing company, and Ergonomux – a business that works in high end usability software design.

Cayuse Tech also won a deal with Cisco Systems, Inc. by building a team of 12 who could manage Cisco’s Utah partners. Cisco Systems is a billion dollar company that develops, manufactures, and sells high end technology services and products. All three are housed in one office located in Salt Lake City.

As expected, the two incumbents were re-elected to the Nixyaawii Community School (NCS) Board of Directors April 28.

A third vacancy drew no candidates.

Last year, about a dozen candidates prompted more than 100 votes.

This year, Cor Sams won with 14 votes and Randall Melton received 13.

Tim Gilbert resigned from his position as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Yellowhawk Tribal Health Center. Gilbert served as CEO for nearly seven years.

Yellowhawk held its annual Fun Run in May.

MAY Tamastslikt Cultural Institute received a Travel Oregon award that recognizes the museum’s investment in efficient and renewable energy.

Tamastslikt received the Gene Leo Memorial Award established in 1994 to honor the late Gene Leo, known for his Oregon tourism contributions as Director of the Oregon Zoo, Portland Rose Festival and the Portland Oregon Visitors Association (now Travel Portland).

The award was presented to the Tamástslikt Cultural Institute, which celebrates the traditions of the Cayuse, Umatilla and Walla Walla tribes that have lived on this land for more than 10,000 years, for its multi-year investment to efficient and renewable energy. Over the course of 14 years, Tamastslikt has reduced its electrical usage by 67 percent and natural gas usage by 76 percent saving more than $750,000.

BOLSTER, a new program designed to provide individualized employment services and training, started May 16.

The “Building Our Life Skills Training and Employment Readiness” program, like the Day Training program, is run out of the Tribes’ Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) in a partnership with Public Works, Tribal Housing, Finance, Human Resources and others.

The primary purpose of the training is to develop and strengthen the participant as a potential employee and community member.

Tribal leader Gary Burke was honored for his contribution to the care and eventual repatriation of the Ancient One by the Washington State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) in a ceremony in Seattle.

Burke, BOT chair, received SHPO’s 2017 Award for Outstanding

Confederated Umatilla Journal

There was special election to fill an at-large seat open on the BOT. A resignation by Justin Quaempts in April created the vacancy. Instead, the position was filled during the General Election on Nov. 21.

The CTUIR Board of Trustees accepted a recommendation from the Tribes’ Election Commission, which noted that because of a constitutional requirement of 90-day notice of a special election, the person elected would not be sworn-in until the end of August and that would limit his or her term in office to less than three Elk were released from the Starkey months. The Election Experiement Station onto the Umatilla Commission also noted the cost of a special Indian Reservation in May. election.

Several amendments were made to the Juvenile Code, but the BOT shied away from the most controversial change – withholding “18-money” from juveniles until they graduate from high school or pass a GED test.

The BOT disregarded the Youth Council proposal, which had been supported by the Education and Training Committee, the Law and Order Committee, the Education Department, the Office of Legal Counsel, and the Office of Executive Director.

The “18 money” refers to individual allocations from casino earnings that are kept in a fund for minors until they turn the age of 18. Currently when an enrolled CTUIR member turns 18 they will receive around $30,000.

A total of 31 teams made up of 116 students competed using one of eight dialects in the Language Knowledge Bowl.

Also participating were 17 coaches and 21 judges, plus numerous volunteers.

Student teams competing using one of the following dialects – Ichishkiin, Numu, Kiksht, Wenatchapam, Niimiipuu, Wanapum, Weyíiletpu, or Umatilla.

JUNE Twenty-five years after Jim Lavadour and Philip Cash Cash hatched the idea of creating a space for up-and-coming indigenous artists, Crow’s Shadow Institute of the Arts celebrated a quarter century of making art on the Umatilla Indian Reservation.

June 12, 2017, was proclaimed Crow’s Shadow Day by the BOT for the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation.

Winners of the 2017 Entrepreneur of the Year award were Kim BrighamCampbell and James Campbell of Brigham Fish Market.

The award was given by Business Development Services of Wildhorse Resort & Casino during a luncheon award ceremony.

Brigham-Campbell received a crystal award and a $5,000 check.

Three other nominees were recognized for their small businesses - Anson Crane of Red Crane Studios, Peter Walters of Impresario, and Ellen Taylor of Ellen Taylor Art. Tribal language signage was officially unveiled at an open house at Washington Elementary School in Pendleton.

About 50 people, mostly families from the CTUIR, turned out for the event, which was part of the Tribal Absenteeism Pilot Project (TAPP).

Mykael Sam, 4, from Warm Springs, danced at the Wildhorse Pow Wow.

Cay-Uma-Wa Head Start celebrated its 2017 graduation at Wildhorse Resort & Casino. The ceremony consisted of 26 graduates and 14 returning students.

Each student received small graduation gifts. The boys received a vest and small hand drum while the girls received a kupin and shawl.

With the intent to “re-invent” itself, Wildhorse Resort & Casino announced plans to add a second 11-story hotel tower, a 32-lane bowling alley, four more screens in the Cineplex and five new restaurants.

Those amenities and more are expected to be completed by the summer of 2020.

The BOT by resolution June 5 authorized a team to begin exploring financing for a loan not to exceed $85 million.

The expansion is expected to create at least 100 new jobs, which

January 2018

CUJ - A Look Back at 2017 would bring the total employment up to 860 during the peak summer months. Even in the slower winter months the number of employees would be around 760 to 800, George said.

JULY Indian Lake camping facilities southeast of Pilot Rock received an award of $110,000 from the Spirit Mountain Community Fund to perform major improvements.

Another $240,000 was pledged by the BOT for the Tribes, which own and operate Indian Lake Campground.

The major portion of the $350,000 Indian Lake project will be used to replace three vault toilets. Other major improvements will include the expansion of an arbor and removal of an old underground diesel tank.

A $3.5 million grant will be used to construct a 1-mile road that will provide access to an otherwise isolated chunk of tribal industrial land along the Columbia River near the Port of Umatilla.

The paved road will cut east from Beach Access Road and then cross between Two Rivers Corrections Institute (state prison) and Port of Umatilla land.

Tr i b a l F a r m E n t e r p r i s e e n j o y e d Electricity generated exceptional wheat harvests in the from a 300-foot-long so- summer. lar array to be installed on the south side of the Tribes’ Field Station and Engineering Laboratory is expected to power new LED lights in three buildings on the Umatilla Indian Reservation.

Over the anticipated 25-year lifespan (warranty) of the project the CTUIR expect to save more than $450,000 in electrical utility bills. Total cost for the project is estimated at $267,000, but the CTUIR investment will be less than one fourth of that amount.

Yields more than two times the average are being harvested in wheat fields farmed by the Farm Enterprise Program.

Yields of as much as 125 bushel per acre have been cut in fields along the river bottom.

AUGUST A crowd estimated at more than 300 braved the summer heat at the July Grounds for the annual Community Picnic.

More than 450 hamburgers, 250 hotdogs, five gallons of macaroni salad, and seven gallons of potato salad, plus coolers filled with water, juice and soda were served.

The CTUIR were one of 20 tribes identified to receive some of the $540 million remaining in the federal government’s Land Buy-Back Program.

The U.S. Department of Interior announced a revised strategy for consolidation of fractional land interests. The CTUIR already has purchased more than 10,100 acres using $12.4 million from the Land Buy-Back Program. In that process, the Tribes made 4,538 offers. Of those, 1,759 offers were returned and 1,682 were accepted.

Twenty-five candidates filed nominating petitions seeking to fill 11 elected positions on the Board of Trustees and General Council for the CTUIR. At least one new face was to be on the Board after the election.

Rosenda Shippentower, BOT Treasurer, was running in November for a member-at-large position, leaving the treasurer position open for election of either Doris Wheeler or Eugena Stacona.

Four men are vying for the position of General Council Chairman, including incumbent Alan Crawford, who ran unopposed for the position two years ago. This year he is being challenged by David Close, who was recalled as BOT Secretary in 2015; Kyle McGuire, the current GC Vice-Chair; and newcomer Willie Sigo IV. New statues of a grandmother and grand- Staff and officials view the solar eclipse son harvesting tules sym- outside the Nixyaawii Governance bolize not only the historical Center in August. significance of The Gathering Place, but also the partnership between the CTUIR and the Port of Kennewick.

About 100 people, including leaders from the CTUIR, the Port and City of Kennewick, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, and public art proponents, came together under a hot mid-day sun to dedicate the new display along the north shore of Clover Island in the Columbia River.

With a huge incoming class of freshmen, Nixyaawii Community School has set a cap on attendance and started a waiting list for students that want to come to the charter school.

January 2018

On the first day of school there was a total of 76 students – 29 freshmen, 18 sophomores, 18 juniors and 11 seniors. Ninety percent of the students are Native Americans.

The first-ever Summer Youth Fair celebrated youth employees completing their summer jobs and projects. The youth employees ranged from 14-18 years old and worked in various departments and programs on the Umatilla Indian Reservation.

There will be no referendums to legalize marijuana or purchase tribal member life insurance on the Nov. 14 ballot for the CTUIR. Leila Spencer, who is leading proponents of the two referendum measures, told the Election Commission on Sept. 5 that she likely will have to start over in her effort to get the questions – about pot and life insurance – in front of voters.

Efforts to work through General Council and the BOT were fruitless, and Spencer and others learned that the CTUIR Constitution does not have provisions for referendums or initiatives at this time.

SEPTEMBER The BOT allocated $160,000 to establish proof that the east boundary of the Umatilla Indian Reservation (UIR) was labeled incorrectly during a survey conducted in 1871.

The quest to re-establish the rightful boundary stems from the belief that a survey misidentified the correct location of key landmarks. The result of this misidentification “lopped off” roughly 250,000 acres of land that originally belonged to the CTUIR according to Tamastslikt Cultural Institute Director Bobbie Conner.

This issue was addressed in The Indian Claims Commission Act of 1946. The Indian Claims Commission (ICC) was intended to address outstanding legal claims that tribes may have had against the U.S. Government according to resolution 17-064. The ICC, Conner said, could not restore wrongfully-taken land and only awarded monetary settlements.

The Pendleton Round-Up and Happy Canyon came and went without a flaw. It was perfect once again.

The BOT designated public squares for candidates to place political signs on CTUIR-owned lands in their meeting Sept. 25.

The BOT approved an amendment to the Land Development Code (LDC) July 24 that allowed for campaign signs to be posted on CTUIR-owned lands within “public squares.”

Previously the LDC prohibited political and campaign signs on CTUIR lands. Also amended in the July 24 meeting were the allowable dates for sign posting and size requirements for signs.

of Tony Jimenez Jr. of Pendleton. He will be sentenced for the crime Feb. 1, 2018, at the U.S. District Courthouse in Portland.

Simpson, 24, admitted guilt to second-degree murder for shooting and killing Jimenez on March 19, 2016, on the Umatilla Indian Reservation, according to court records in the federal case.

The BOT approved a resolution that set out a timeline and funding for construction of a new Education Facility that will include a new Nixyaawii Community School.

The Education facility would put under a single roof all early-childhood learning systems, including Cay-UmaWa Head Start, Tribal Day Care, and the After School Program, as well as the Tribes’ Language Program.

In a totally separate part of the facility would be NCS, which is in its 14th year William Sigo IV talks at a on the Umatilla Indian Reservation. NCS candidates’ forum in October. is chartered under Pendleton School District 16R and as such it is a public school that anyone can attend. It is not an “Indian school.” NCS has an enrollment of 80 students in ninth through 12th grade; about 60 are members of the CTUIR and another 10 are Native American students from other tribes, which leaves 10 non-natives.

NOVEMBER Voters elected William Sigo IV as General Council Chair over incumbent Alan Crawford and retained Gary Burke as BOT Chair.

Also retaining seats on the BOT were Secretary N. Kat Brigham, and members at-large Aaron Ashley and Woodrow Star. Doris Wheeler was elected treasurer while former treasurer Rosenda Shippentower was elected to an at-large member position. Newcomer Sally Kosey also was elected to an at-large position.

On the General Council with Sigo, Michael Ray Johnson was elected vice-chair, Shawna Gavin was elected secretary, and Thomas Morning Owl was elected by write-in as interpreter.

A run-off election is planned Feb. 12 to elect a BOT vice-chair after incumbent Jeremy Wolf and challenger Shana Radford finished in a tie with 370 votes each.

Tribal elders will see an increase in their monthly benefit payments as they grow older, according to the 2018 budget for the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation (CTUIR).

The Board of Trustees (BOT) appropriated an additional $135,900 to fund an increase in the monthly elders’ benefit payments, which will be based on ages once an elder reaches 65 years old.

Relay racers do their best to stay on and control their horses during action at the Round-Up.

OCTOBER Twenty-one of the 26 candidates participated Oct. 19 at a political forum in front of more than 40 people in the General Council Chambers at Nixyaawii Governance Center.

The General Council Chairman and three at-large members of the Board of Trustees that didn’t show, nor did two other candidates for atlarge BOT positions.

With so many candidates, remarks and responses were brief. Each candidate had a one-minute opening, an off-the-top-of-your-head opportunity to comment on a random issue, and two minutes for a closing statement.

An Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS), one of three now owned by the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation, was demonstrated for the BOT by two employees who are Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) certified pilots.

Travis Olsen and Stacy Schumacher in the CTUIR Geographic Information System (GIS) Program, who are certified to fly the drones, demonstrated the crafts for tribal leaders. The GIS Program will be the lead entity in coordinating the use of drones and management of data captured with the UAS. Environmental Management’s Richland Operations Office (RL) recently dedicated the Indigenous Restoration Area at the Volpentest Hazardous Materials Management and Emergency Response (HAMMER) Federal Training Center in honor of Tribal leaders.

The three Tribal leaders recognized for their commitment, leadership, and support to HAMMER and its partnerships in the Oct. 3 ceremony included Bill Burke, Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation (CTUIR); Russell Jim, Confederated Tribes and Bands of the Yakama Nation; and the late J. Herman Reuben, Nez Perce Tribe.

Sequoia Conner and Tayler Craig have been selected as the 2018 Happy Canyon Princesses.

Sequoia Conner, 18, is the daughter of Terri Carnes and Marcus Conner.

Her maternal grandparents are Angelita Smith and Herb Carnes; paternal grandparents are Virginia Wilkenson and Cecil Conner.

Tayler Craig, 21, is the daughter of Rachael Hoptowit and Fermore Craig Jr. and is an only child. Her maternal grandparents are Belba Hoptowit and William McLane; her paternal grandparents are Priscilla Craig and Fermore Craig Sr.

Noah Enright, a senior at Nearly 100 people came and went Nixyaawii, drives against a throughout a three-hour open house Umatilla defender.

Dec. 3 at Crow’s Shadow Institute for the Arts (CSIA) where patrons celebrated the imminent retirement of Master Printer Frank Janzen.

DECEMBER Debra Croswell resigned in December, seven months after her position of Deputy Executive Director was eliminated by the BOT. She had been serving as Interim Executive Director since February of 2017 when Dave Tovey resigned. (See story on Page 5A.) Tribal Environmental Recovery Facility announced it would no longer accept plastic containers for recycling following a decision by China banning 24 different types of recyclable material. (See story on Page 3A.) Nixyaawii Golden Eagles girls are ranked number one in the state and the boys are in the top five as Old Oregon League action begins.

(See stories on Page 1B./)

The CTUIR recently negotiated and signed an inter-tribal Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with the other treaty tribes hunting bison in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem (GYE).

The agreement was developed to address safety needs in the Beattie Gulch portion of the hunt area, west of Gardiner, Montana, through bison harvest coordination. Beattie Gulch is one of the first locations that migrating bison are available for harvest as they leave the Yellowstone National Park.

Julian Darryl James Simpson pleaded guilty Oct. 27 to the murder

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Happy 9th Birthday Penelope Gavin

‘Full House’ at CTUIR Christmas banquet The 2017 Employee Christmas Banquet for the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation was held Dec. 8 at Wildhorse Resort & Casino (WRC).

Employees who have worked for 10, 15, 20, 25, and 35 years were recognized, given a monetary prize and a unique Pendleton blanket. Those with five years of employment also received recognition plus a $25 WRC gift card. There were two employees who were recognized for working at the Tribe for 35 years - Jue Jue Withers and Gary James. Withers works as the acting Staffing and Onboard Manager for the Human Resources Department and James is Fisheries Program Manager for the Department of Natural Resources. According to Taryn Minthorn, Benefits Coordinator and Records Specialist, it was a “full house” with around 400 employees in attendance. Brunch was served and a slideshow of employees participating in events was played. There was also a raffle that included Portland Trail Blazer and Seattle Mariner tickets.

Joey Lavadour and Syreeta Azure were dressed from head to toe in Christmas attire at the CTUIR employee Christmas banquet.

Options to Purchase

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Confederated Umatilla Journal

January 2018

BC Court sides with tribe in cross-border hunting dispute

by Emily Schwing of the Northwest News Network

The Supreme Court of British Columbia has upheld the claims of a Native American man from Washington state that he has the right to hunt in the province.

The long-running case concerned Rick Desautel, a member of the Colville Tribes and a descendant of the Sinixt, an

January 2018

indigenous group which once roamed the Northwest.

In 2010, Desautel crossed the border from Washington to British Columbia and shot an elk without a permit. Desautel argued that the hunt was not illegal because it took place in the traditional hunting grounds of the Sinixt.

But the province argued that those rights ended when the Sinixt were declared extinct in Canada. The last

surviving member there passed away in 1956.

The decision effectively recognizes the aboriginal rights of the tribe in British Columbia.

In his decision, British Columbia Supreme Court Judge Robert Sewell wrote that allowing Desautel and other Sinixt members to hunt in the region is “consistent with the objective of reconciliation” established in Canadian

Confederated Umatilla Journal

civil law.

In March of 2017, a provincial court judge sided with Desautel following a nearly yearlong trial. Sewell’s decision rejects an appeal from British Columbia’s provincial government.

The Sinixt people’s traditional lands extend north from the Reservation of the Confederated Tribes of the Colville to the Arrow Lakes region in the southern half of British Columbia.

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Sewing classes Tuesdays, Thursdays in January MISSION – A sewing class is being offered every Tuesday and Thursday in January from 4-7 p.m. at Yellowhawk Tribal Health Center’s WIC building.

The classes will be taught by Syreeta Azure. Class participants will learn how to sew a capote coat.

For information, contact Shelly Minthorn at 541-429-4904.

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Art Center schedules classes, workshops PENDLETON – A total of 19 art and music classes and workshops are scheduled for adults this winter at the Pendleton Center for the Arts. The winter schedule is out and can be viewed online at pendletonarts.org or by following the organization’s Facebook page at facebook.com/pendletoncenterforthearts.

The schedule also is available in print at the Arts Center at 214 N. Main.

Classes run on a variety of days and

times with some beginning as soon as Jan. 8.

Subjects for adults range from painting and drawing to knitting, ceramics and a new graphic design classes called Illustration and Print design.

Class offerings for youth included beginning guitar and violin classes, papier mache, clay exploration and more. There will also be a free, monthly art class exclusively for youth children ages 2-6 and

Confederated Umatilla Journal

their parents called Messy Art. Many youth art classes are free or low cost.

The Art Rocks Teens (ART) program offers a variety of free classes for teens ages 13-18. Classes this term include sewing, painting, ceramics, origami, book club, stage makeup and guitar classes.

The program has expanded to include Monday classes where a new class called Guide to YouTubing will be introduced.

ART classes are held after school Mondays through Thursdays from 5:30-5 p.m. and are free for teens.

The winter schedule is designed to engage a wider audience of both beginning and emerging artists in a safe and creative space. Classes are not just for learning new skills and techniques, but also to allow for connections with other people who have similar interests, according to Kaisa Hill, the new Education Coordinator.

“Taking a class at the Arts Center help people connect to a creative community and build relationships with others who love art and art making,” Hill said. “It’s very social and fun.”

More information is available at the Art Center’s website, pendletonarts.org or by calling 541-278-9201.

January 2018

Thank you letters O N B E H A L F O F T H E P E N D L E TO N YOUTH FOOTBALL Board we would like to thank the parents for their time and effort to get their young athletes to practice and games during the 2017 football season. Also to the volunteer Head Coaches Fred Grass, Shelby Tallman, Damien Patton, Tanner Micheal, Steve Utter, Craig Perkins, John McBean (Athena-Weston) and Jorge Estrada (Milton-Freewater) along with all your assistant coaches for providing a safe and fun atmosphere for the athletes. Thank you to the PYF Board Frank Moutray, Secretary; Doug Triebelhorn, Equipment Manager; Josh Hanson, Treasurer; Rich Lani, Advertising; and John McBean, Representative, for putting together the program and keeping it active. We would like to extend a special thanks to the Pendleton School District, Athena- Weston School District, and Milton-Freewater School District, along with their Athletic Directors Troy Jerome (PHS), Shawn White (Athena-Weston), Gary Robertson (MacHi) and Steve Larson (Sunridge) for working with our youth football program so that we may have a field and lights to play our games. Thank you to City of Pendleton Recreation Department and Round-Up officials for working with our programs every year so that the young athletes have a place to practice and conduct our assessments.

Thank you to the Hermiston Youth Football Program and Pilot Rock Football Program for hosting several games during the season; we hope we can continue that partnership. Thank you to all the officials/referees (Michael Leiuallen, Sean Pierce, Shaw Jerome, Tanner Stephen, Jimmy Jones, Myke Summers, and Oliver Wells, who took the time to come out and maintain our games when no one else did). Being an official is a thankless responsibility and we truly appreciate the help from those officials from MiltonFreewater, Athena-Weston and Pendleton. Thank you to the Confederated Umatilla Journal for the story on our youth football program.

Thank you to our sponsors Coldwell Banker Whitney & Associates, Wildhorse Resort & Casino, Wheatland Insurance, Vision Source Pendleton, Roundup Athletic Club, Dairy Queen – Pendleton, Pioneer Title & Escrow, McCormack Construction, Pendleton Pioneer Chapel, Kelly Lumber Supply, McLaughlin Landscaping, ISU - The Stratton Agency, Hill Law Office, Gordons Electric, Durk V. Irwin Orthodontist, Dean’s Pendleton Athletic, Papa Murphy’s, Cockburn & McClintock CPAs, Mathew A. Duchek Construction, Fisher Family Chiropractic, Burns Mortuary of Pendleton, Bisnett Insurance, Cascade Gas, Community Bank, Kelly Lumber, Les Schwab, State Farm – Dan Ceniga, VFW Hall, Zimmerman & Company, Big John’s, and Columbia Bank.

Ron Smith – President Pendleton Youth Football THANK YOU FOR YOUR ASSISTANCE AND PARTICIPATION IN THE 2017 CHRISTMAS CELEBRATION: dancers; emcee Thomas Morning Owl; drummers Umatilla Intertribal, Shunkaha Napin, Ol Nicth-Yow-Way, Stonechild of Toppenish, WA, Amakay of Satus, WA, Purple Rain, Throbbing Tomahawk, Hemene – Hyhy, Red Hawk Canyon, White Bird; to the cooks – Linda Jones, Lynn Sue Jones, Koko Hufford, Janice Jones, Avary McKay, Robin Marsh and helpers Lawanda Bronson, Julianah Matamoros; vendors Shalaya Williams, Vic’s Discount Jerseys, Rad Shack of Pendleton, Butterflies by Matthew, Marlene & Paul Lopez, Irma Sams, Larry Begay, Carmie Creations of Walla Walla and Jr. Youth Council; attendees; Andrew Wildbill and Alan Crawford our whip man; and to the sponsors CTUIR Board of Trustees, Pendleton Round-Up Associations, Pendleton Happy Canyon, Pendleton Woolen Mills, Cayuse Technologies Board of Directors, Nixyaawii Elders, CTUIR Department of Children & Family Services, Yellowhawk Behavioral Health Program, Arrowhead Travel Plaza, Davis Orchards, David Wolf Jr., Laurie Gaines, Victor Caputo, Kristen Parr, Leigh Pinkham-Johnston, Rachel Boetel, LaDonna Picard-Squiemphen, Enoch Crane, Shawna Crane, CTUIR Jr. Youth Council (Julianah Matamoros, Latis Nowland, Enoch Crane, Grace Moses, Jaedean Looney, Malaya Stanger, Lindsey Little Sky, Alyric Red Crane, Jareen Hines), Culture Night Parents, Richard Sams Sr., Richard Sams Jr., Audrey Shippentower, Janice Jones, Addison Kosey,

January 2018

Sally Kosey, Rachel Ellenwood, Eva Oatman, Wilbur Oatman, Andi Scott, Dallas Dick, Amos Pond, Logan Quaempts, Fermore Craig Sr., Celeste Reeves, Tara Craig, Kim Minthorn, Terence Cowapoo, Charles Wood III, Randy Sams. Joe Ball and Deana Brown for fixing our restrooms.

Lawanda Bronson for plowing the parking lot.

Happy New Year!

Celebration Committee Babette Cowapoo, Chair Linda Jones, Vice Chair Marjorie Waheneka, Treasurer Rachel Matamoros, Secretary THE NICHT-YOW-WAY ADVISORY COMMITTEE AND SENIOR COORDINATOR would like to “Thank the following volunteers “ for making our CTUIR Elders Christmas luncheon a successful event for the community. We appreciate and Thank our elders for whom donated items for door prizes and we hope we didn’t forget anyone and if so, we apologize from our Elders advisory officers; Alan Crawford, Lorena Thompson, Adele Guyer & Roberta Kipp.

Special thanks to Fred Hill, MC the x-mas agenda, Randy Minthorn and Cayuse Singers for opening(drumming and singing) Dionne Bronson, guest speaker on Wisdom Warrior project and Healthy eating for the Elders, the Head Start children for singing some Christmas carols, The Nixyaawii Community School for decorating and especially Kristen Parr for her cash donation to assist the Elders, Sissy Falcon & the Blue Mountain Fiddlers in which did a fabulous job on entertainment along with Anson Crane, Veterans – flag carriers & Toni Cordell, Our Cooks and the volunteers for whom served; Linda Sampson, TaliaTewawina, Sandy Sampson, Michelle Thompson, Lauren Burke, Judith Burke, Andi Scott, Nina Watchman, Alvina Huesties, Debra Shippentower, Desiree Maddern, Lisa Ganuelas, Rosa Arellanes, Sadie Mildenberger, Karma Kipp, and Keysha Ashley along with the CTUIR Youth Council and Rachel Matamoros and family for making the Gingerbread houses & decorations, Cayuse Tech, Wildhorse Casino Resort, and the CTUIR General Council Office for their donations, the DCFS staff for assisting with the Senior Coordinator, Theda Scott, the CUJ for assisting with photos andd Jill Marie-Gavin with KCUW 104.3 f.m.

The Nicht-Yow Way Elders Advisory had their meeting following the luncheon and No Action was taken on the change of age, trips were discussed, and surveys are still being collected at the DCFS Office with Theda Scott. There will be an Elders Meeting at the Senior Center on January 5th, 2018 at 9:00am. We encourage all Elders to come and provide input for the upcoming year events and activities.

Happy New Year and Thank you for all your support! Theda Scott, CTUIR Senior Coordinator

Looking for his niche Artist, musician and public speaker, Alx Kujana, a member of the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation, set up a vendor booth at the Nixyaawii Governance Center before Christmas. Kujana has been creating artwork for the past three years and although he feels he hasn’t developed a “niche” yet, he wants to continue creating until he finds it. His artwork consists of spray paint and acrylic on canvas. Currently Kujana has his “Planetary Eye Candy” artwork on display at the Pendleton Public Library. The left photo is one of his canvases that is displayed. This canvas is called “Veerautus”. Each one of the planetary names was uniquely created

by Kujana and is not an actual word. He also has some of his images displayed on postcards and T-shirts, which are available for purchase. For more details on Kujana or to book him for an event, visit alxkujana.com or email 541Alx@ gmail.com.

THE DEPARTMENT OF CHILDREN AND FAMILY SERVICES hosted a Foster Care Recruitment Dinner on November 29, 2017 at the Wildhorse Resort and Casino. We had a great time together with good food, games, door prizes, a dance off, and we had the pleasure of having wonderful guest speakers Ian Sampson, Carol Hernandez, and Cor Sams who shared their stories of involvement with different aspects of the Foster Care system. So again a HUGE thank you goes out to all of you who participated in the event and to those speakers who shared amazing words. We will be planning future events so if you are interested in becoming a foster parent please feel free to contact Marie Allman at the DCFS office 429-7300 or if I’m not in the office you can contact Julie Taylor or Tracy Rohn.

Sincere Thank you, Marie Allman, Foster Care Licensing Coordinator

Subscribe to the CUJ. $15/ 1 year or $28/ 2 years Mail payment and info. to: CTUIR ATTN: Accounts Receivable 46411 Timi’ne Way Pendleton, OR 97801

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Tamamnu Salt, left, and Saleen Wildbill were some of the Cay-Uma-Wa students that performed in the annual event.

Lelai Taula hits the jingle bells on her wrist during CayUma-Wa Head Start’s Christmas Program on the Umatilla Indian Reservation in December.

Desmond Nez received an award for his attendance.

Christmas for Cay-Uma-Wa Head Start CUJ photos by Lennox Lewis Tracey ThompsonElisoff, left, and Hayden Plume wait for their performance at the annual CayUma-Wa Christmas Luncheon where students attending perform Christmas Songs.

Lisa Faye McIntosh received an award for 85 percent or higher in attendance.

After the performance, staff from Cay-UmaWa gave out awardsto the students for “attendance”, “teachers helper” and “most respectful”. Amadeo Tewee received the ‘BLOSSOM Award’ for his attendance from September to November.

Thank You from all of the employees of Pioneer Construction, Pioneer Asphalt, and Pendleton Ready Mix.

Have a Happy New Year!

Concrete is an investment and we are here in the community to provide that service.

www.pioneerasphaltinc.com 18B

CALL TODAY! 541-276-7885 Pioneer Construction Confederated Umatilla Journal

73569 McKay Lane Pendleton, OR

CBB#41934

January 2018

Child Care Development Program You may be eligble for child care assistance if you meet these requirements: * Reside in the service area, which is on or near the Umatilla Indian Reservation (this includes Umatilla, Morrow and Union Counties) and the ceded areas;

Christmas performance Native Emma Star Nez dances with fellow students during the Christmas program at Washington Elementary School in Pendleton in December. Washington Elementary has a large number of students from the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation.

* Child(ren) must be enrolled OR a descendant of a Federally Recognized Tribe; * Meet the income eligibility based on the Sliding Fee Scale; * Must be employed, attending school and/or vocation program, and/or active job searches.

Hiding out under that hat is Battle Soliz, a first grader at Washington Elementary School in Pendleton.

CUJ photos/Phinney

January 2018

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Our vision: Our tribal community achieves optimal health through a culture of wellness. Our mission: We strive to empower our Tribal community with opportunities to learn and experience healthy lifestyles.

Yellowhawk News & Events

These two pages are sponsored by Yellowhawk Tribal Health Center.

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Confederated Umatilla Journal

January 2018

January 2018

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CTUIR Board of Trustees Minutes summary The following are summaries of Board of Trustees minutes. They are not complete minutes, nor are they the minutes of the work sessions in which the BOT discussions and debates issues before voting in an open session.

The summaries are presented here as they are provided, without CUJ editing.

DATE: November 6, 2017 BOT Present: Gary Burke, BOT Chairman; Jeremy Wolf, Vice Chairman; Rosenda Shippentower, Treasurer; Kathryn Brigham, Secretary; Aaron Ashley, Member; Armand Minthorn, Member; Woodrow Star, Member, and Alan Crawford, General Council Chairman. Full quorum.

Old Business. None.

Resolution 17-075: Topic: Scope of Tribal Education Facility Project. RESOLVED, that the Board of Trustees hereby authorizes the construction of the Tribal Education Facility Project (Project) that houses both the Tribal Education Department programs and the Nixyaawii Community School; AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Board of Trustees hereby approves the Project budget that is attached to this Resolution as Exhibit 1C; AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Board of Trustees hereby appropriates $1 million from the Capital Improvement Fund and $5 million from the Tribal Contingency Fund for the Project; AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Board of Trustees hereby directs the Executive Director and Finance Director to pursue a loan in the amount of up to $10 million to finance the balance of the Project costs, which loan agreement shall be subject to Board of Trustees approval; AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that staff are directed to continue exploring funding opportunities to help pay for the facility (grants, donations, New Market Tax Credits); AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Board of Trustees hereby authorizes the Project Core Team to prepare an RFP for, and select, the Project General Contractor, provided that the Construction Agreement for the Project shall be subject to Board of Trustees approval; AND BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED, that the Board of Trustees hereby approves and funds the remodeling of the Recreation Center and demolition of the Cay-Uma-Wa Building once it is vacated.

AND, that said Resolution has not been modified amended or repealed and is still in full force and effect. DATED this 6th day of November, 2017.

Jeremy Wolf moves to adopt Resolution 17-075, Armand Minthorn seconds, Motion carries 7-0-0.

Resolution 17-076: Topic: Support Healing Lodge grant. RESOLVED, that the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation Health Commission will work in good faith to move the Youth Regional Treatment Center Aftercare Pilot Project forward by involving the youth who were discharged upon successful completion of their program; AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that during 2017, with the support of the Board of Directors of the Healing Lodge will apply to the Indian Health Service for the Division of Behavioral Health; Youth Regional Treatment Center Aftercare Pilot Project Grant that will support this cooperative agreement and will disseminate program information to all the eleven YRTC’s as prescribed within the grant description; AND BE

IT FURTHER FINALLY RESOLVED, that the Healing Lodge of the Seven Nations designates the Executive Director, Rebecca Crocker to act as the grant administrator and point of contact between the Healing Lodge and Indian Health Service Division of Behavioral Health. AND, that said Resolution has not been modified amended or repealed and is still in full force and effect.

DATED, this 6th day of November, 2017. Woodrow Star moves to adopt Resolution 17-076 as amended and the support letter, Armand Minthorn seconds. Motion carries 7-0-0.

Other Board Action: None.

BOT Travel Reports. 1) Aaron Ashley, Oct. 31-11/3 to Lincoln City to attend LCIS State-Tribal Summit. 2) Alan Crawford, Oct. 31-11/3 to Lincoln City to attend LCIS State-Tribal Summit. 3) Gary Burke, Oct. 31-11/3 to Lincoln City to attend LCIS State-Tribal Summit. 4) Kat Brigham, Oct. 27 to Walla Walla Community College and Mill Creek to meet with WA Senate Agriculture, Water & Rural Economic Development representatives.

Jeremy Wolf gave verbal report on LCIS and CRITFC meetings he attended. Armand Minthorn gave verbal report on LCIS he attended.

MOTION: Rosenda Shippentower moves to approve trip reports, approve the travel requests and break for lunch until L:30 PM, Kat Brigham seconds. Discussion. Question. Motion carries 5 for - (Rosenda Shippentower, Kat Brigham, Armand Minthorn and Woodrow Star) - 2 against (Jeremy Wolf and Aaron Ashley) – 0 abstaining.

BOT Leave and Travel Requests. None.

and Ross Waddell, Certified Public Accountant to take all actions necessary to negotiate a 105 (1) lease agreement with Indian Health Services; AND BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED, the Confederated Tribes Board of Trustees hereby authorizes and directs its’ Chairman to execute and authorize all necessary documents to complete the 105(1) lease with Indian Health Services. DATED this 20th day of November, 2017. Kat Brigham moves to defer until Yellowhawk provides a corrected Resolution, Motion fails, lack of a second.

Rosenda Shippentower moves to approve but that it not be signed until the Resolution is corrected. Aaron Ashley seconds. Kat Brigham will notify Yellowhawk. Motion carries 7-0-0.

Other Board Action: None.

BOT Travel Reports. 1) Armand Minthorn gave a verbal report of trip to Texas from Nov. 14-17 to attend STGWG meeting. 2) Woodrow Star gave verbal report on his trip on Nov. 17 to Spokane to attend Healing Lodge meeting.

Jeremy Wolf moves to approve the verbal report.

Woodrow Star seconds. Discussion. Question.

Motion carries 6-0-0. [Alan Crawford not present for vote] BOT Leave and Travel Requests. 1) Kat Brigham: Personal leave, Wed. Nov. 22 afternoon. 2) Jeremy Wolf, Travel to Chico Springs, MT to attend IBMP meeting. 3) Woodrow Star, Personal leave Nov. 21. Aaron Ashley moves to approve leave requests. Rosenda Shippentower seconds. Discussion. Question. Motion carries 6-0-0. [Alan Crawford not present for vote]

vacancy with one application from Mary Holt.

Kat Brigham moves to appoint Mary Holt by acclimation to serve term ending on August 4, 2018 on the Gaming Commission. Rosenda Shippentower seconds. Motion carries 4-0-0.

2) Health Commission, 1 vacancy with two applications from Jo Marie Tessman and Susan Sheoships. By secret ballot Susan Sheoships was appointed to the Health Commission to service 3 year term. 3) Land Protection Planning Commission, 1 vacancy with two applications from David E. Thompson Sr. and Ross Simmons. By secret ballot David E. Thompson Sr. and Ross Simmons were tied. BOT Chair broke the tie and David Thompson Sr. was appointed to serve on the Land Protection Planning Commission for 3 year term. 4) Terms Expiring: A letter needs to be sent to the City of Pendleton because John Turner’s term on the Wildhorse Foundation expires on November 30, 2017.

5) No terms expiring in January 2018. 6) Will continue to advertise for: 1 position, Tiichám Conservation District, 2 year term, meet 2nd & 4th Tuesday @ 1 PM. 7) All applications will be due Monday, December 26, 2017 by 4:00 PM. A BOT work session will be scheduled January 4, 2018 at 8:30 AM to review applications and will take action on the application appointments on Monday, January 8, 2018.

BOT Travel Reports. None.

BOT Leave and Travel Requests. None.

DATE: December 4, 2017 DATE: November 20, 2017 BOT Present: Gary Burke, BOT Chairman; Jeremy Wolf, Vice Chairman; Rosenda Shippentower, Treasurer; Kathryn Brigham, Secretary; Aaron Ashley, Member; Armand Minthorn, Member; Woodrow Star, Member, and Alan Crawford, General Council Chairman. Full Quorum.

Old Business. None.

Resolution 17-078: Topic: Appointment of Associate Judges. RESOLVED, that Douglas R. Nash and David D. Gallaher are appointed as Associate Judges for the Umatilla Tribal Court with all the duties and responsibilities as assigned, for a term of ten (10) years beginning immediately until January 2028 or until otherwise authorized by the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation; AND, that said Resolution has not been modified amended or repealed and is still in full force and effect. DATED this 20th day of November, 2017. Woodrow Star moves to adopt Resolution 17-048, Aaron Ashley seconds, Motion carries 6 for (Woodrow Star, Aaron Ashley, Alan Crawford, Jeremy Wolf, Kat Brigham and Armand Minthorn) – 0 against – 1 abstaining (Rosenda Shippentower).

Resolution 17-079: Topic: Yellowhawk Health Center 1051 I HS Lease. RESOLVED, the Confederated Tribes Board of Trustees approves the submittal of the 105 (1) lease to the Indian Health Services for the payment of the facility costs in the new clinic; AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, the Confederated Tribes Board of Trustees approves and authorizes the Chairman of the Health Commission, the acting Chief Executive Officer of YTHC, the Chief Financial Officer of YTHC, and Geoffrey Strommer, Attorney

DATE: November 27, 2017 BOT Present: Gary Burke, BOT Chairman; Rosenda Shippentower, Treasurer; Kathryn Brigham, Secretary; Aaron Ashley, Member; and Woodrow Star, Member. Jeremy Wolf, Vice Chairman and Armand Minthorn, Member on travel.

Alan Crawford, and General Council Chairman on personal leave. Quorum present.

Old Business. None.

Resolution 17-080: Topic: General Welfare Assistance. RESOLVED, that the Board of Trustees hereby approves further work on this project and authorizes the chair to sign all relevant letters and documents related thereto; AND, that said Resolution has not been modified amended or repealed and is still in full force and effect. DATED this 27th day of November, 2017.

Kat Brigham moves to adopt Resolution 17-080 as revised. Rosenda Shippentower seconds.

Motion carries 4-0-0.

Resolution 17-081: Topic: US vs. Oregon.

RESOLVED, that the Board of Trustees does hereby authorize the Chairman of the Board of Trustees to sign the 2018-2027 United States v. Oregon Management Agreement, attached here to as Exhibit 1, so that it may entered as an order of the Court in United States v. Oregon; AND, that said Resolution has not been modified amended or repealed and is still in full force and effect. DATED this 27th day of November, 2017.

Kat Brigham moves to adopt Resolution 17-081 as revised. Woodrow Star seconds. Motion carries 4-0-0.

Other Board Action: Commission/Committee Update and Application Review. Kat Brigham, BOT Secretary. 1) Gaming Commission, 1

BOT Present: Gary Burke, BOT Chairman; Jeremy Wolf, Vice Chairman; Doris Wheeler, Treasurer; Kathryn Brigham, Secretary; Rosenda Shippentower, Member; Aaron Ashley, Member; Woodrow Star, Member; Sally Kosey, Member and William Sigo, General Council Chairman.

Full quorum present.

Old Business. None.

Resolution: None.

Other Board Action: Formal Commission/ Committee Review and Adoption changes: -Page 7. Elder’s Treasurer is Adele Guyer.

-page 8 line 10 Columbia River Housing is William Sigo.

-page 8 line 16 NEACT – delete since it was assigned to staff.

-page 8 line 19 LCIS – delete since duplicate of line 3.

-page 8 line 33 Yellowhawk Project is Doris Wheeler.

-page 8 add line for Education Facility Project assigned to Doris Wheeler.

Woodrow Star moves to approve the BOT assignments to the Commission/Committee Members List with changes, Rosenda Shippentower seconds, Motion carries 8-0-0.

BOT Travel Reports. 1) Jeremy Wolf, Nov. 27-28, Interagency Bison Management Plan, Bozeman, MT. Rosenda Shippentower moves to approve reports. Sally Kosey seconds. Discussion. Question. Motion carries 8-0-0.

BOT Leave and Travel Requests. 1) Kat Brigham, birthday leave, Dec. 5 and 12th 1-4 PM. 2) Sally Kosey, personal leave, Dec. 7th from 1:00 – 4:00 PM. Rosenda Shippentower moves to approve leave requests. Aaron Ashley seconds.

Discussion. Question. Motion carries 8-0-0.

PFLAG Pendleton would like you to please join us WHAT: Parents Families & Friends of Lesbians & Gays (PFLAG) Pendleton Monthly Meeting Also inclusive of Bi-sexual, Transgender, Queer, Questioning, Intrasex, Plus

WHEN: Sunday, February 11, 2018 – 2 p.m.

WHERE: Pendleton’s Historic Inn - 311 N Main St. (Big Pink Home) In 2005 PFLAG Pendleton reorganized to provide support for the GLBTQ (Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Questioning plus) families and friends suffering from the stressors of a negative political and social environment. Locally every meeting offers opportunities for sharing in an open yet confidential dialogue with other members of our community.

We also provide brief educational programs and opportunities to work toward changing both private and public opinions in regard to equality and inclusion for our GLBTQ plus friends and family. Questions call (541) 966-8414

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January 2018

CTUIR Board of Trustees Minutes summary DATE: December 11, 2017 BOT Present: Gary Burke, BOT Chairman; Jeremy Wolf, Vice Chairman; Doris Wheeler, Treasurer; Kathryn Brigham, Secretary; Rosenda Shippentower, Member; Aaron Ashley, Member; Woodrow Star, Member; Sally Kosey, Member and William Sigo, General Council Chairman.

Full quorum present.

Old Business. None.

Resolution 17-082: Topic: Yellowhawk Loan Contract Amendment. RESOLVED, that the Board of Trustees hereby approves Amendment No. 1 to the Construction Agreement, Amendment No. 1 to the Note and Amendment to Loan Agreement attached to this Resolution as Exhibits 1, 2 and 3, respectively; AND BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED, that the Board of Trustees hereby authorizes its Chairman to execute Amendment No. 1 to the Construction Agreement, Amendment No. 1 to the Note and Amendment to Loan Agreement attached to this Resolution as Exhibits, 1, 2 and 3 or documents containing substantially similar terms, and to take such further action and to execute documents as may be required to carry out the purposes of this Resolution. AND, that said Resolution has not been modified amended or repealed and is still in full force and effect. DATED this 11th day of December, 2017. Woodrow Star moves to adopt Resolution 17-082, Rosenda Shippentower seconds, Motion carries 8-0-0.

Resolution 17-083: Topic: 2018 BIA Invasive Species Proposal. RESOLVED, that the Board of Trustees supports the efforts outlined in the 2018 Invasive Species Proposal (attached as Exhibit 1) and the request for $50,575 to carry out these efforts, and authorizes the submission of the proposal on behalf of the Confederated Tribes; AND BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED, that the Board of Trustees requests that the Bureau of Indian Affairs fund its 2018 proposal in its entirety.

AND, that said Resolution has not been modified amended or repealed and is still in full force and effect. DATED this 11th day of December, 2017.

Jeremy Wolf moves to adopt Resolution 17-083, Aaron Ashley seconds, Motion carries 8-0-0.

Resolution 17-084: Topic: Election Code Amendments. RESOLVED, that the Board of Trustees hereby adopts the amendments to the

541-276-7272

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Tribal Election Code attached to this Resolution as Exhibit 1, with all new language underlined and all deleted language lined through; AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Board of Trustees hereby determines that the attached Election Code amendments shall go into effect immediately and shall be applied to the Tribal Special Election in February 2018; AND BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED, that the Board of Trustees hereby directs the Election Commission to use the Voter Intent - Statewide Standards of What is a Vote publication issued by the Washington Secretary of State in 2014, attached to this Resolution as Exhibit 2, to determine the intent of a Qualified Voter who fails to follow the ballot instructions in counting ballots cast in the Special Election in February 2018 and in future Tribal elections until such time as the Commission promulgates its own regulations. AND, that said Resolution has not been modified amended or repealed and is still in full force and effect. DATED this 11th day of December, 2017. Woodrow Star moves to adopt Resolution 17-084, Kat Brigham seconds, Motion failed 3 for (Woodrow Star, Kat Brigham and Rosenda Shippentower) - 4 against (Aaron Ashley, William Sigo, Sally Kosey and Doris Wheeler) – 1 abstaining (Jeremy Wolf).

Kat Brigham, BOT Secretary recommends the resolution be revised by taking out Section 3.13 Counting of Votes and to strike last Resolved referencing Election Commission to use the Voter Intent – Statewide Standards of What is a Vote publication issued by the Washington Secretary

of State in 2014.

Revised Resolution 17-084: RESOLVED, that the Board of Trustees hereby adopts the amendments to the Tribal Election Code attached to this Resolution as Exhibit 1, with all new language underlined and all deleted language lined through; AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Board of Trustees hereby determines that the attached Election Code amendments shall go into effect immediately and shall be applied to the Tribal Special Election in February 2018; AND BE IT FINALLY AND, that said Resolution has not been modified amended or repealed and is still in full force and effect. DATED this 11th day of December, 2017. Kat Brigham moves to adopt revised Resolution 17-084 to amend Exhibit 1 to just include Section 2.12. Woodrow Star seconds, Motion carries 6 for – (Kat Brigham, Woodrow Star, Rosenda Shippentower, William Sigo IV and Sally Kosey) – 1 against (Aaron Ashley) – 1 abstaining (Jeremy Wolf).

Other Board Action: None.

BOT Travel Reports. 1) Kat Brigham attended Stan Speaks retirement dinner at Chinook Winds on Sun. Dec. 10th. Sally Kosey moves to approve reports. Rosenda Shippentower seconds, Discussion. Question, Motion carries 7-0-0 BOT Leave and Travel Requests. 1) Jeremy Wolf, two travel requests, one to Salem on 12/13 to Salem for tribal consultation on climate change and state actions to address it. Second trip to Portland on 12/14-15 to attend CRITFC meeting. Personal leave Dec. 27-29. 2) William

Sigo IV, Personal leave, Dec. 29 to Jan 1. Travel to ATNI Convention in Jan, 2018, Jan. 21-25.

Rosenda Shippentower moves to approve leave requests, Aaron Ashley seconds. Discussion.

Question. Motion carries 8-0-0.

January Birthdays: 2nd: Bowen Bronson 3rd: Basil Marsh, Art Brickwood and Robert Kash Kash 4th: Leo Stewart and Julie Stewart 9th: Natalie Welch 12th: Daniel Brigham 15th: Nicole Linhart 18th: Damon Billy 20th: Michelle Brigham and Aya Majors 23rd: Alger Brigham 27th: Daniel Jones 29th: Bonnie Harrison 30th: Julius Welch 31st: Taylor Quaempts, Quentin VanPelt and Bryce Lauristen

Anniversaries: 7th: Jim & Faye Marsh 23rd: Robert and Kat Brigham

DID YOU KNOW? At the turn of the twentieth century, the Indian of the Umatilla Reservation faced new challenges, but they managed to carry on their old ceremonies, traditions, and customs. In 1891, the federal government, through the BIA agent, formally abolished traditional Tribal chieftaincies of the Umatilla, Walla Walla, and Cayuse; they were considered public authorities who were in conflict with federal wishes. For the tribes, however, there was still an emphasis on traditional forms of chieftainship, the language spoken, and the seasonal rounds of food-gathering activities in the Blue Mountains and the Grande Ronde and Wallowa valleys.

Gathered from ‘as days go by’

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January 2018

Confederated Umatilla Journal

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Confederated Umatilla Journal

January 2018