CUJ February 2024

JANUARY 2024 | CONFEDERATED UMATILLA JOURNAL

FE BRUARY 2024

CONFEDERATED UMATILLA JOURNAL

NEWS DAILY @ CUJ ONLINE

VOLUME 32 • ISSUE 2

THE MONTHLY NEWSPAPER OF THE CONFEDERATED TRIBES OF THE UMATILLA INDIAN RESERVATION

KCUW celebrating 20 years, all year

By CHRIS AADLAND Reporter

Environmental Protection Agency and Army Corps of Engineers, as well as speakers from Oregon and Washington state agencies.

Smaller, general session topics included housing, agriculture, technology, education, energy, elections, Indian Child Welfare Act, veterans and transportation. With

MISSION – KCUW, the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation’s community radio station, will hit its 20th anniversary in February – and it is planning to celebrate that milestone a number of ways throughout the year.

In those 20 years, the station has gone through three different channels, currently using 104.1, and gone from a makeshift studio in a maintenance building behind Wildhorse Resort & Casino, with a “very, very low, low, low” power antenna on top, to its current studio and office space in the Public Safety building, as well as a couple of other antennas, said KCUW Operations Manager Anson Crane.

More changes are coming, like another potential antenna to boost the station’s signal strength.

But first, he said he wants the community to know more about the station’s anniversary and the role it has played in the

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KCUW CONTINUED PAGE 3

From left to right, Board of Trustees Vice Chairman Aaron Ashley, Member At Large Corinne Sams, Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek and Board of Trustees Chairman Gary Burke visit between sessions during the winter meeting of the Affiliated Tribes of Northwest Indians Tuesday, Jan. 30 in Portland. TRAVIS SNELL | CTUIR COMMUNICATIONS OFFICE PHOTO

Board of Trustees, OED attend ATNI in Portland

By TRAVIS SNELL PORTLAND - The Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation (CTUIR) Board of Trustees and members of the Office of the Executive Director attended the Affiliated Tribes of Northwest Indians Winter Convention Jan. 28 to Feb. 1.

The ATNI is a nonprofit

organization representing 57 Northwest tribal governments from Oregon, Idaho, Washington, Alaska, California and Montana. Formed in 1953, it’s dedicated to tribal sovereignty and self-determination.

Within the five-day convention, tribal leaders attended keynote sessions that included speakers from the U.S. Department of Interior, Bureau of Indian Affairs,

Umatilla Tribal Police officers rescue girl from dog, receive commendations MISSION – Officers Jonathan Lehman and Daniel Foreman of the Umatilla Tribal Police Department were given commendations on Jan. 17 after saving a 6-year-old girl from a dog attack.

According to the UTPD, the two officers were patrolling near Aspen Way at approximately 11 a.m. on Jan. 17 when they noticed the girl interacting with a German Shepherd near the back of a residence.

The interaction became dangerous as the dog knocked the girl to the ground and aggressively bit onto the back of her head and drug her along

the ground, states the commendation letter.

According to the UTPD, the officers got out of their patrol vehicle and yelled at the dog to stop. The dog let go of the girl as officers got between her and the dog but then circled them several times trying to get to the child again, UTPD officials said. Officials added that Lehman drew his duty pistol to protect the child. The dog made a sudden rapid movement toward the three of them, and Lehman fired a round employing DOG CONTINUED PAGE 11

Umatilla Tribal Police Officers Jonathan Lehman and Daniel Foreman. COURTESY

KCUW - Celebrating 20 years on the Rez! Open House Feb. 2

CTUIR 46411 Timine Way Pendleton, OR 97801

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CONFEDERATED UMATILLA JOURNAL | JANUARY 2024

CTUIR contracts with LASO for expanded legal services

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eligibility for government benefits.

Tribal members with income at or below 125% of federal poverty guidelines will pay no fee. For tribal members making between 125% and 200% of federal poverty guidelines, the fee will be $25. Tribal members making between 200% and 250% of federal poverty guidelines will pay $50.

Unlike the previous contract, which limited LASO aid to tribal members living in the five counties surrounding the Umatilla Indian Reservation, the 2024 contract expands services to CTUIR members living throughout Oregon. For LASO to help members living out of state, the legal matter must arise in Oregon.

Pitt said CTUIR members should be able to access LASO starting Feb. 1. Services include issues such as family law, housing, government benefits, senior law, consumer issues, debtors’ rights/bankruptcy, employment, probate issues, criminal expungement and civil rights.

Tribal members can call the LASO Pendleton Regional Office at 541276-6685 or the Native American Program of Legal Aid Services of Oregon in Portland at 503-223-9483.

For more information, visit Legal Aid Services of Oregon - LASO (lasoregon.org)

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MISSION – The Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation (CTUIR) is teaming with Legal Aid Services of Oregon to provide legal aid to tribal members who are above LASO’s income limitations.

The CTUIR Board of Trustees on Jan. 8 approved a contract for services with LASO, which provides free civil legal help to low-income Oregonians through regional offices and statewide hotlines and programs.

Joe Pitt, CTUIR Office of Legal Counsel lead attorney, said LASO typically provides services to Oregonians whose income is up to 125% of federal poverty guidelines, but the contract would help CTUIR members whose income is between 125% and 250% of poverty guidelines.

“The CTUIR identified increased availability of no-cost civil legal services to tribal members above federal poverty guidelines as a need many years ago,” he said. “There was a contract in place between the CTUIR and the Pendleton Regional Office of LASO to provide similar services from 1998 to 2022. This 2024 contract will reestablish this service for tribal members.”

The only cost to CTUIR members will be a single, flat, start-up fee of $25 or $50, which will be waived for representation intended to maintain

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The Columbia River Inter-Tribal Fish Commission (CRITFC) was founded in 1977 by the CTUIR, Yakama Nation, Nez Perce and Warm Springs tribes, at least in part, to allow the tribes to address encroachment on treaty rights by federal, state and local governments. To read more about CRITFC, see https:// critfc.org/about-us/critfcs-founding/

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JANUARY 2024 | CONFEDERATED UMATILLA JOURNAL

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

community in its 20 years.

“I want to showcase what’s the soul behind this radio station, because it has a lot of it,” he said. “A lot of soul and good people.”

The open house will be open to the public, who can drop by from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. for tours of the station or for food catered by Moe Pho. The open house won’t be the only event Crane – who before taking his current position in late 2022 was one of the many volunteers KCUW has

counted on and previously served as assistant director in 2015 – has planned to mark the anniversary.

He said he plans to host a lunch to show appreciation for the station’s volunteers, who Crane credited as the biggest factor in the station’s survival and growth, as well as producing a short documentary about KCUW’s history over the summer.

Throwback merchandise will also be produced to honor the anniversary, and Crane said he’ll be sure to highlight the station’s anniversary and history throughout the year at community events it

KCUW Director Anson Crane said the station often featured youth volunteers over the years, like in this undated photo. While that doesn’t happen much anymore, Crane said one of his goals for the station is to again get CTUIR youth involved with the station. Another one of his goals: increasing awareness of the station, its role in2024_FebCUJ_ad_PRINT.pdf the community and opportunities to pitch in through a years-worth of 9.75" x 7.625" 1/17/2024 2:11:29 PM anniversary events. KCUW ARCHIVE PHOTO

CULTURAL INSTITUTE

participates in, like the Community Picnic and fireworks show.

The point of all that, he said, is to recognize all those who have contributed to the station over the years and the important role community radio stations have, in addition to growing its reputation and heightening public awareness for what Crane said is an exciting future.

The result, he said, is hopefully that the community understands that he and the stations contributors do the work “for here, for the CTUIR, for the people.”

The community radio station’s 20th anniversary comes as Crane is planning for other changes to the station that should begin to be noticed throughout the year.

For example, a second antenna could soon go up on the other end of Pendleton to strengthen KCUW’s signal and increase its reach. Crane said the station applied for the second “LP” antenna recently and should hear in the coming months whether it was approved, which Crane said he expects. That would also give it another frequency – 105.9 – for listeners to turn to.

The state also plans to resume online streaming of its content as well as updating its outdated music playlist, which Crane said is a tedious task. He also said he will shift his focus – now that he’s settled into his role and familiarized himself with administrative duties, like budget matters and federal regulations – to improving and adding content.

Before he took over as KCUW’s Director in late 2022, Anson Crane was one of the many volunteers over the years who played important roles in operating and growing the CTUIR’s community radio station. In a recent interview with the CUJ, Crane said one of his priorities for marking the station’s 20th anniversary is making sure its volunteers are recognized for their work over the years. KCUW ARCHIVE PHOTO

Hopefully, Crane said increased awareness or interest from anniversary events, to planned changes, continues to draw more interest in the station, from underwriters or other community organizations who see KCUW as a valuable partner in getting information out to the community.

“A big part of this year is pulling other people in,” he said. “This year is all about improving the foundation.”

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Carson's Story INTERWOVEN Letitia Presented by Pepsi LEGACIES Primetime @ the Museum

Tuesday, February 6 4pm

Join us for an engaging afternoon when Zachary Stocks of Oregon Black Pioneers gives an overview of Letitia's story and Lauren Gwin tells us about the Letitia Carson Legacy Project. Be sure to visit the exhibit, “Letitia Carson: An Enduring Spirit of Hope and Freedom”, before it closes on February 9. The exhibit and presentation are free and open to the public. Complimentary refreshments will be served.

Take advantage of 40% off all winter apparel and accessories through the end of the month at the Museum Store. We have great looking winter wear from jackets to socks, scarves, and sweaters. Look good while staying warm! Offer may not be combined with other offers/discounts.

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Open for lunch 11am-2pm Tuesday through Saturday! Great lunch options, weekly specials, and tasty huckleberry treats!

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February 2, 10am-5pm

View the new exhibit "Portraits in Red”. Enjoy Indian Tacos and Frybread from 11am-2pm at Kinship Cafe.

Shop the Museum Store and receive 40% off winter apparel! Free admission all day.

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KCUW

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CONFEDERATED UMATILLA JOURNAL | JANUARY 2024

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ABOUT THE CUJ

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

Publisher: Kaeleen McGuire kaeleenmcguire@ctuir.org Editor: Lisa Hicks Snell lisasnell@ctuir.org Reporter: Chris Aadland christopheraadland@ctuir.org Advertising: M. Moses-Conner monecemoses@ctuir.org Contributing Photographers: Dallas Dick dallasdick@ctuir.org Lee Gavin leegavin@ctuir.org CONTACT US Confederated Umatilla Journal 46411 Timine Way Pendleton, OR 97801 Email: CUJ@ctuir.org Phone: 541-429-7005 SUBSCRIBE

The CUJ is free to pick up at tribal entities and area businesses.

However, a mailed subscription can be purchased for the price of shipping and handling by contacting the CTUIR Finance Department. Call 541-429-7150 or visit the Finance Department in person at Nixyáawii Governance Center, 46411 Timine Way, Pendleton.

One year: $15 • Two years: $28 The CUJ prints on the first Thursday of each month.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR: • Limit to 300 words or less • Information found to be inaccurate/libelous will not be published.

• Letters containing profanity will not be published.

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

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

EMAIL ADVERTISING, LETTERS TO THE EDITOR & OTHER SUBMISSIONS TO: CUJ@ctuir.org DEADLINE: 20th of the month prior to publication For more information or daily news, visit the CUJ online at:

https://cuj.ctuir.org

The Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation’s Board of Trustees approved a resolution on Nov. 27 that established a Tribal Veteran’s Committee, which will act as an advisory committee, similar to other CTUIR committees and commissions. CUJ FILE PHOTO

CTUIR establishes veterans committee

By CHRIS AADLAND Reporter MISSION – Veterans will soon have more input in issues affecting them at the tribal level once seats on a recently created advisory committee are filled.

The Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation’s Board of Trustees approved a resolution on Nov. 27 that established a Tribal Veteran’s Committee, which will act as an advisory committee, similar to other CTUIR committees and commissions.

In a Jan. 11 announcement, Board Secretary Roberta Wilson called for those who are interested in serving on the new committee to apply to fill one of the five open positions. The Board will appoint members after reviewing applications.

When it begins meeting, the

committee will help ensure that the issues affecting CTUIR veterans – who, together with the rest of Indian Country, have served, and continue to do so, in the military at rates higher than the rest of the U.S. – will be addressed.

According to the resolution establishing the committee, it will “provide policy advice to the Board of Trustees and CTUIR staff on the development and implementation of policy regarding advocacy for veterans, engagement and outreach with veterans in the community, including working with George St. Denis Post 140, American Legion Oregon whenever possible, and the development of support services for the well-being of veterans.”

The new committee will also work closely with the Department of Children and Family Services’ Veterans Program, according to

Wilson.

Meeting days and times have yet to be determined. Board members recently appointed General Council Chair Alan Crawford to fill the BOT position on the committee.

A scheduling conflict led the committee positions not being posted until now, Wilson said.

“Apologies to the community and to our veterans for the delay in advertising,” she said.

Membership isn’t limited to veterans or those living on the Umatilla Indian Reservation. Anyone with a strong interest in helping veterans is encouraged to apply, Wilson said in the announcement.

Anyone who is interested or has questions about the new committee is encouraged to call Wilson at 541429-7372, Cami Lewis at 541-4297377 or CTUIR Veteran’s Services Manager Sam Spino at 541-429-7389.

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Grant opens drone career path for community members

Caden Powell and CTUIR tribal member Dazon Sigo prepare a drone for flight. Powell and Sigo are recent program graduates.

CAYUSE NATIVE SOLUTIONS | COURTESY PHOTO

(evening classes). The two options are taught by the same instructors of Delmar and Cayuse Native Solutions, who are certified drone pilots and experienced in teaching the drone curriculum.

After a participant completes the training, the grant will pay the fee for the Federal Aviation Administration Part 107 exam, a certification required for drone pilots to commercially operate a drone.

Once certified, the new drone pilot will be offered a temporary job at a drone company where they can learn and perform tasks as on-thejob training. While working in the temporary role, the new drone pilot will earn a stipend. The grant can also

assist the participant in purchasing their own drone.

The 3-year, $2 million grant received by CTUIR is a Workforce Ready Grant, Round Two: Innovation in Workforce program. This state grant will advance opportunities to strengthen Oregon’s economic competitiveness by removing barriers to education and employment, developing a diverse workforce, and supporting businesses’ needs for employees today and into the future.

Community members interested in the opportunity may email info@ CayuseNativeSolutions.com or call Kari Gibson in the CTUIR Workforce Development Department at 541429-7304 for more information.

EVFR ENEE T

said CTUIR Workforce Development Director Lindsey X. Watchman.

For each participant, CTUIR can pay for a training course called “UAS Professional Pilot Path” that includes 80 hours of ground school preparation in the fundamentals of UAS operations and 80 hours of flight instruction with drone simulators and real multirotor and fixed wing drones. The course is taught by Delmar Aeroeducation (formerly called Volatus Group, a division of Delmar Aerospace).

The class can be taken over a period of 4 weeks (2-week segments, during regular business hours), or through Blue Mountain Community College over one college quarter

EVFR ENEE T

MISSION – Tribal community members interested in a career in the Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) industry can receive financial support through the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation’s (CTUIR) Workforce Development Department.

The CTUIR was recently awarded a Future Ready Oregon Workforce Ready Grant from the Higher Education Coordinating Commission that will help CTUIR community members become certified drone operators. The state investment package advances opportunities to recruit and retain a diverse workforce in key sectors of Oregon’s economy: technology, health care and manufacturing.

The funding received by CTUIR covers drone training fees, exam fees, earn and learn stipends, equipment incentives, and wrap around services such as daycare and transportation expenses for selected participants from the CTUIR community.

“This grant is an amazing opportunity for our community members to start a career in the growing and fascinating drone industry. We are fortunate to be located near the Pendleton UAS Test Range and to have a tribal enterprise who provides drone services (Cayuse Native Solutions). These factors helped us identify the drone industry as a workforce development opportunity for our community,”

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CONFEDERATED UMATILLA JOURNAL | JANUARY 2024

Kayak launches new Milton-Freewater bus schedule, route MILTON-FREEWATER – With the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation (CTUIR) taking over Milton-Freewater’s bus services in 2023, Kayak Public Transit introduced a new bus schedule and route for the Northeast Oregon city Jan. 15.

Kayak General Manager Vicki Croes said as part of a pilot program, bus service will begin at 10 a.m.

Monday through Friday with the last bus of the day ending at 6:15 p.m. at the Kayak hub in Pendleton. The later operational hours are supposed to provide increased flexibility for Milton-Freewater residents.

Kayak’s revised route takes into consideration community feedback, eliminating underused stops and increasing stops that better serve the community, looping through MiltonFreewater municipal, shopping and residential areas with service to Walmart and Valley Transit Center in Walla Walla. The new route is expected to improve travel times and enhance overall efficiency.

While connecting to the Valley Transit Center four times daily, it will also connect to the Whistler regional bus twice daily.

Kayak officials said the transit service is committed to making public transportation accessible to all community members. The new schedule and route aim to provide convenient options for individuals with various transportation needs.

And like other Kayak buses, passengers will ride for free.

Officials added Kayak values community feedback and that passengers are encouraged to share experiences and suggestions to help refine and improve services.

“Our new route and schedule are built with community feedback in mind,” Croes said. “We are responding to Milton-Freewater residents’ requests for later and more frequent service. The community has let us know shopping and being able to get to appointments are high priorities. We are dedicated to improving Kayak’s bus service, visibility and experience for everyone. This pilot program is a testament to our commitment.”

Feedback and comments can be

submitted by emailing kayak@ctuir. org or calling 541-429-7519. Updates will be shared on Kayak’s Facebook page and website.

Owned by CTUIR, Kayak provides free and accessible transportation for the public in 19 rural communities in Northeast Oregon and Southeast Washington. All its buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and bicycle racks.

The CTUIR launched its first fixed route in 2001 to meet tribal members’ transportation needs. The agency expanded its capacity, took over maintenance responsibilities, developed comprehensive performance measurements and extended its service area. It was rebranded Kayak Public Transit in 2014.

Kayak officials contracted with the city of Milton-Freewater to assume its fixed route service in March 2022 and began using Kayak drivers

instead of city employees.

Croes said Kayak, which the CTUIR owns and operates, also began using two Milton-Freewater buses to service three Mondaythrough-Friday loops between Milton-Freewater, College Place and Walla Walla.

In May 2023, city officials announced they were ceasing bus operations. Shortly after, the Oregon Department of Transportation approached Kayak, proposing it take over all Milton-Freewater operations, assets and funding.

Subsequently, Milton-Freewater officials agreed to transfer two buses, four bus shelters and the city’s Statewide Transportation Improvement Fund to Kayak with the final takeover date set for Jan. 1, 2024. That’s the same date, Croes said, the buses and shelters will be rebranded as Kayak property.

The buses are a 2008 Ford El

This map depicts Kayak Public Transit’s new route for MiltonFreewater that launched, Jan. 15.

Kayak provides free and accessible transportation for the public in 19 rural communities in Northeast Oregon and Southeast Washington. All its buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and bicycle racks.

Dorado and a 2016 Ford Starcraft.

The four shelters are at South Main Street, Northeast Fifth Street, Northwest Eighth Street and Northeast 12th Street.

On Nov. 13, the Board approved the bus service takeover as Kayak officials have been adjusting the route schedule to maximize efficiency in preparation to assume operations under the Kayak brand.

Croes said Kayak has conducted community outreach through surveys and meetings, and with the feedback, officials are restructuring the route for better service.

“We believe we have the resources to provide superior service and we look forward to meeting the needs of the Milton-Freewater community,” she said.

For more information, visit ctuir. org/departments/tribal-planningoffice/kayak-public-transit/ or call 541-429-7519.

JANUARY 2024 | CONFEDERATED UMATILLA JOURNAL

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ATNI CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

Public Works Department Director Justin Northern, left, instructs BOLSTER crew members as they prepare sandbags for possible flooding. Northern said the department has in place a standard operating procedure when it comes to flood assistanc. LEE GAVIN | CTUIR PHOTO

Tribe preps for potential spring flooding

By CHRIS AADLAND Reporter MISSION – With recent rain and snowfall, tribal officials have started to prepare for potential flooding – though they say it isn’t imminent.

Mid-January, the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation Public Works staff and BOLSTER crew members began filling sandbags to prepare for possible flooding after recent winter weather caused waters to rise in area streams and rivers.

Tribal officials also published public service announcements online encouraging the public to be on the lookout for potential flooding while detailing how the tribe would respond to any flooding, as well as how community members could assist.

CTUIR Public Works Director Justin Northern acknowledged there

was a possibility that some creeks could be impacted by continued snow melt, but tribal officials didn’t believe it would lead to any major flooding.

According to the National Weather Service’s longer-term outlook, there is only a slight risk projected for the Umatilla River flooding throughout the spring.

Still, Northern said it’s important for the community to know that the tribe is prepared to address flooding concerns and how it will respond to potential flooding.

“We’re doing our due diligence in preparing for any weather that might be coming our way,” he said in a video posted to the CTUIR’s Facebook page, as crew members stacked filled sandbags in the background.

If flooding occurs, the CTUIR Emergency Response Team will activate a standard operating procedure to address it, officials said.

How the tribe will respond, as

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well as the roles certain programs and departments will have, are outlined in the tribal Emergency Operations Plan that was updated last year. That plan also includes tribal response procedures for other destructive events, such as wildfires and earthquakes.

In addition to tribal departments, volunteers will be called upon to assist in activities such as filling sandbags as part of an official flood response. Volunteers will report to the Public Works Operations Facility on Bus Barn Lane off Mission Road to receive instructions.

Public Works staff will manage the staging area and sandbagging activities and direct the delivery of equipment and sandbags.

If anyone is experiencing or notices an immediate flooding concern, they are asked to report it to the Umatilla Tribal Police Department at 541-2780550.

concurrent sessions held most of the convention, tribal leaders were able to pick and choose what sessions they attended.

CTUIR Vice Chairman Aaron Ashley said he enjoyed the climate resiliency and economic development sessions held Tuesday, Jan. 30.

“Because I sit on the Science and Technology Committee, those are the ones that I have a background in from Natural Resources, so I feel like those are at the top of our priorities our tribe is looking at the next two years.”

He said it was important for CTUIR leaders to attend ATNI because if tribal leaders aren’t present then they aren’t up to speed on key topics.

“If we’re not at the table then we’re on the menu,” Ashley said.

“It also creates better networking opportunities and builds new relationships. It’s an opportunity to learn new things and build upon things we’re doing well.”

Member At Large Corinne Sams said she enjoyed the general sessions because of the information they provided.

“There was so much legislation, consultation, natural resources issues that are going on within the Northwest,” she said. “It’s kind of nice to get a generalization of how we’re coming together to work on specific issues and how we can better coordinate and work with other Northwest tribes to ensure the initiatives move forward and progress.”

Sams said upon returning home she plans to implement information regarding toxins from rubber tires and their effects on native fish. “That will play a big part in how we mitigate on other construction areas within the Columbia Basin, and so that information about that toxin that’s in tires and harmful to fish will help us better gauge what we need to look for because a lot of infrastructure are, unfortunately, created by our waterways and water systems. It will help us mitigate for any harm so we don’t have any loss of fish moving forward.”

On Jan. 30, Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek attended the convention to sign Executive Order 24-06, which calls for the resumption of the Governor’s Task Force on Oregon Tribal Items.

The task force was formed by executive order in 2012 to survey public entities such as schools, universities and state agencies for information related to cultural items the agencies held. The task force determined how to best gather information, developed definitions for cultural items and provided training to state agencies on conducting such surveys.

However, in 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic halted the task force’s work. Kotek’s executive order puts the task force back in operation.

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CONFEDERATED UMATILLA JOURNAL | JANUARY 2024

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Wildhorse Cineplex to screen farming documentary MISSION – The Wildhorse Resort & Casino Cineplex will screen a free, one-time showing of the regenerative farming documentary “Common Ground” at 4 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 7.

The documentary tells the story of the “Regenerative Movement” pioneers who are creating a food system that produces nutritionally dense food while balancing the climate and bringing ecosystems back to life.

Regenerative farming focuses on improving the health of soil that has been degraded by using heavy machinery, fertilizers and pesticides.

“By fusing journalistic exposé with personal stories from those on the front lines of the food movement, ‘Common Ground’ unveils a dark web of money, power and politics behind the broken food system,” states the documentary’s website. “The film profiles a movement of white, Black and Indigenous farmers who are using alternative ‘regenerative’ models of agriculture that could balance the climate, save people’s health and stabilize America’s economy.”

Lisa Ganuelas, a Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation (CTUIR) Board of Trustees member, said she’s excited the Wildhorse Cineplex worked with

The documentary “Common Ground” tells the story of the “Regenerative Movement” pioneers who are creating a food system that produces nutritionally dense food while balancing the climate, healing bodies and bringing the ecosystem back to life. The Wildhorse Resort & Casino Cineplex will screen a free, one-time showing of the film at 4 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 7. COURTESY PHOTO

“Common Ground” distributors to be one of the few regional theaters to

screen the documentary.

“There is limited opportunity in

our region to showcase what the collaborators of this film hope to share,” she said. “But I am learning there are more open minds in the region that I think will gravitate to learning what ‘Common Ground’ has to give and help build this movement.”

With the film’s screening and a Q&A session afterward, Ganuelas hopes the audience leaves with a better understanding of regenerative farming, something she has dealt with while serving on the Board of Trustees.

“Through my time on the Water Commission, and more recently on the Farm Committee, I started learning of the delicate balance healthy soil has for our water cycle and the retention of this limited resource,” she said. “Even more so as I learn of our geology and the aquifers we are tapping and the limited recharge that is occurring within those aquifers.”

Ganuelas urges people to attend the screening as the film presents a message for the current generation to seek solutions regarding drought and climate change for future generations.

The documentary includes Woody Harrelson, Jason Momoa, Rosario Dawson, Donald Glover and Laura Dern.

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10

MORE FUN MORE OFTEN! ANNIVERSARY SPECIAL

Reward offered for Umatilla County poaching leads SALEM – Poachers killed three cow elk in Umatilla County in January.

Anyone with information that leads to an arrest or citation in either case may receive rewards of $1,000 or four hunter preference points.

On Jan. 6, Fish and Wildlife troopers received a report of three dead cow elk located on private property in the Columbia Basin Unit in Umatilla County. The carcasses were near Cold Springs Reservoir and Kosmos Road.

All three cows had been shot the night before and left to waste. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Oregon State Police Dispatch at 1-800-452-7888, *OSP (*677), or email TIP@osp.oregon.gov.

Reference case number SP24006650.

How to identify possible poaching in fields and forests Vehicles parked haphazardly, indicating the driver got out in a hurry.

Vehicles with blood coming from the tailgate or trunk. Legal hunters field dress animals, which eliminates most blood.

Vehicles traveling slowly in the dark, casting light with a flashlight or spotlight.

People without visible tags on big game animals.

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There is a $3,000 reward for information that leads to the person(s) who poached three cow elk in the Columbia Basin area earlier this month. (Photo for illustration only – does not depict actual poachers).

JANUARY 2024 | CONFEDERATED UMATILLA JOURNAL

11

DOG CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

Security professionals drive electric vehicles at the Angel of the Winds Casino, operated by the Stillaguamish Tribe.

COURTESY PHOTO

WSU project to help tribal nations transition to electric transportation, alternative fuels

By SCOTT WEYBRIGHT Washington State University Insider PULLMAN, Wash. – The Washington State University Energy Program is working with Native nations across four states to convert their transportation to electric and alternative fuels, helping those communities make use of future opportunities.

The work is possible thanks to a new three-year, $1.7 million grant from the U.S. Department of Energy’s Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy. The team, led

by Jim Jensen and the WSU Energy Program, will work with Native nations in Washington, Oregon, Idaho and Montana.

“This transition to electric transportation isn’t a choice — it’s going to happen,” said Jensen, a bioenergy and alternative fuels specialist with the WSU Energy Program. “We’re talking with Native nations to understand their challenges and learn how we can help them ensure the impacts are beneficial to their communities.”

The WSU Energy Program is using some of the funding to help Native nations partner with rural utilities on transportation electrification

projects, Jensen said.

Most reservations are located in rural areas with small utility providers.

One of the first orders of business is learning about different nations’ goals by establishing an advisory committee of Native peoples who have experience and interest in the transition to electric transportation.

“I want the people we work with to tell us what they want and for us to help them accomplish those goals,” Jensen said. “That would be success to me.”

That spirit of collaboration is important to people already involved in the early stages of this work.

“This is the first time tribes have had a seat at the table, an opportunity to advocate for what we need and want when it comes to clean energy,” said Donald Williams, owner of energy firm From the Light Consulting and an enrolled member of the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation. “Tribes are being asked what they need. This program is an opportunity for them to provide insight into what they feel is their direction for development.”

Williams was one of the first allies Jensen reached out to when applying for the grant. Williams is excited to work with groups from around all

four states, where different nations are at different stages of energy transition.

“Some are already implementing energy strategy plans to align with the clean energy transition, and some are just starting to think about what they want to do,” Williams said. “This program will help people avoid missing opportunities, like not hearing about grants or funding mechanisms for clean energy projects.”

One opportunity for Native organizations is to improve infrastructure to speed up the electrification transition. That could mean installing electric vehicle charging stations at existing fueling stations or casinos, but it goes beyond that.

Electric vehicle car share programs could be useful for some groups, Jensen said. Some nations may be interested in building out hydrogen facilities or maybe switching fleets like school busses or shuttles to electrical power. “We won’t dictate what each nation should do,” he said.

“We want to work with them to find out what will be the biggest benefit.

It’s a true partnership.”

a safe downward angle missing the dog as it ran off.

“Because of your attention and decisive action, the child was not seriously harmed by the dog and was reunited with their mother.

Had you not been patrolling in that area and aware of the surroundings, this attack on the child would have been serious and would have been disastrous for the child, their family, and the community as a whole,” the commendation letter states.

Lehman, a law enforcement officer of 17-plus years, said he didn’t get into law enforcement for recognition but recognizes how commendations can build morale. “We just happened to be at the right place at the right time and did what we would do for anybody to try and save a life or save somebody from being physically injured,” he said.

Foreman said he and Lehman were fortunate to be in the location and that they only reacted accordingly. “Being able to save a person’s life makes everything truly worth it,” he said.

According to the UTPD, medics evaluated the child for injuries, which included redness on her head from the dog’s teeth and a bruised arm.

The dog’s owner was issued several citations, including one for dog bite. He was also provided an Umatilla Tribal Court date and was directed to keep his dogs secured until the court resolves the matter.

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14

CONFEDERATED UMATILLA JOURNAL | JANUARY 2024

Oregon resident taxpayers preparing their own returns in 2024 can file electronically at no cost using one of Oregon’s free file options.

State, IRS now processing tax returns SALEM – The Oregon Department of Revenue will begin processing e-filed 2023 state income tax returns on January 29, 2024, the same day the IRS will begin processing federal returns. Paper filed returns will be processed starting in mid-February.

E-filed returns will be processed in the order they are received. However, as in years past, the department won’t be issuing personal income tax refunds until after February 15. A refund hold is part of the department’s tax fraud prevention efforts and allows for confirmation that the amounts claimed on tax returns match what employers report on Forms W-2 and 1099.

E-filing is the fastest way for a taxpayer to get their refund. On average, taxpayers who e-file their returns and request their refund via direct deposit receive their refund two weeks sooner than those who file paper returns and request paper refund checks.

The department reminds taxpayers that taking a few easy steps in the next few weeks can make preparing their 2023 tax return easier in 2024.

Department of Revenue website to take advantage of the software and free offers and get more information about free tax preparation services.

Oregon Free File open now Oregon resident taxpayers preparing their own returns in 2024 can file electronically at no cost using one of Oregon’s free file options. Free guided tax preparation is available from several companies for taxpayers that meet income requirements. Free fillable forms are available for all income levels. Using links from the department’s website ensures that both taxpayers’ federal and state return will be filed for free.

Use Revenue Online to verify payments Taxpayers can verify their estimated payments through their Revenue Online account.

Through Revenue Online, individuals can also view letters sent to them by the department, initiate appeals, make payments, and submit questions. Visit Revenue Online on the Revenue website via www. oregon.gov to learn more.

To check the status of your refund after February 15, or make payments, visit Revenue’s website. You may also call 800-356-4222 toll-free from an Oregon prefix (English or Spanish) or 503-378-4988 in Salem and outside Oregon. For TTY (hearing or speech impaired), relay calls are accepted.

Free and low-cost tax help Free tax preparation services are available for low- to moderateincome taxpayers through AARP and CASH Oregon. United Way also offers free tax help through their MyFreeTaxes program. Visit the

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JANUARY 2024 | CONFEDERATED UMATILLA JOURNAL

15

You may be eligible for an EITC, or other tax credits SALEM – January 26 was Earned Income Tax Credit Awareness Day, and all workers who earned income in 2023 should check their Earned Income Tax Credit eligibility.

Oregon’s Department of Revenue is working with the Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) and other state agencies and community partners to encourage taxpayers to learn more about this credit and find out if they’re eligible. One in three Oregon taxpayers eligible to claim the federal EITC are not doing so, adding up to an estimated $100 million in unclaimed credits.

While many are unaware of the EITC and other credits, another hurdle is the need for free help filing tax returns. Find information about free tax filing assistance call 2-1-1.

The EITC is a federal tax credit for people for making up to $63,398 in 2023. Families may be eligible for a maximum refundable credit of $7,430 on their federal tax returns, and a maximum Oregon Earned Income Credit of $891 on their state tax returns. Certain taxpayers without children may also be eligible for these credits.

Individuals may qualify for the ETIC, the Oregon EIC, and other credits, even if they are not required to file. To receive the refundable credits, however, they must file a federal and state tax return.

Basic EITC qualifications include: • All filing statuses are eligible, but

The EITC is a federal tax credit for people for making up to $63,398 in 2023.

CUJ FILE PHOTO

some have specific requirements that must be met in order to qualify.

• You, your spouse, or any qualifying child must have a Social Security number to claim the federal credit.

• Your earned income in 2023 must be below certain limits based on your number of qualifying dependents.

• You may be eligible even if you do not have a qualifying child.

• Taxpayers can use the IRS EITC Assistant to check their eligibility further. The assistant is available in

English and Spanish.

The qualifications for the Oregon EIC are the same as those listed above for the federal EITC, except that the Oregon credit is also available to taxpayers who use an individual taxpayer identification number (ITIN) to file their taxes or have a qualifying child with an ITIN. If you have an ITIN, claim the Oregon EIC using schedule OR-EIC-ITIN. New for tax year 2023, the Oregon Kids Credit is a refundable credit for low-income people with young

dependent children. For those with a modified adjusted gross income (MAGI) of $25,000 or less, the full credit is $1,000 per child for up to five dependent children under the age of six at the end of the tax year. A partial credit is available for individuals and families with an MAGI up to $30,000.

To encourage Oregonians to save for college and job training, the Education Savings Credit for Oregon 529 Plan contributions allows single filers to receive a refundable credit of as much as $170 ($340 for joint filers) if they contribute to an Oregon College Savings Plan account before tax day. The refundable tax credit is also available for contributions to an Oregon ABLE Savings Plan account, which empowers people experiencing disabilities to invest and build financial security without jeopardizing their eligibility for vital state and federal benefits.

More information about the federal EITC, the Oregon EIC, the Oregon Kids Credit and other similar credits, go to the Tax Benefits for families page.

People can dial 2-1-1 or visit the Oregon Department of Revenue website to find free tax preparation sites by using our interactive map.

For more information on the EITC, visit https://www.eitc.irs.gov/. For questions about Oregon taxes, call the Department of Revenue at 503378-4988.

CONFEDERATED UMATILLA JOURNAL | JANUARY 2024

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FEBRUARY 2024 | CONFEDERATED UMATILLA JOURNAL

CONFEDERATED UMATILLA JOURNAL

Community F EBRUA RY 2024 | VOLUME 32 • ISSUE 2

Melton appointed to state commission SALEM – Randall Melton, Exhibits Coordinator for Tamastslikt Cultural Institute (TCI), has been appointed

by Gov. Tina Kotek to a four-year term on the Oregon He r i t a g e C om m i s s i on .

He has worked for TCI more Randall Melton than 20 years and is an enrolled citizen of the Seminole Nation of Oklahoma.

The Heritage Commission is comprised of nine people representing Oregon’s heritage and geographical diversity. There are also nine advisory representatives from state agencies and statewide organizations.

The commission’s members represent a diversity of cultural, geographic and institutional interests and is the primary agency for coordination of heritage activities in the state. This includes carrying out the Oregon Heritage Plan, increasing efficiency and avoiding duplication among interest groups, developing plans for coordination among agencies and organizations, encouraging tourism related to heritage resources and coordinating statewide anniversary celebrations.

More information about the Oregon Heritage Commission is available online at www. oregonheritage.org and from Commission coordinator Katie Henry at 503-877-8834 or katie. henry@oprd.oregon.gov.

Northern Cree to headline TCOC powwow

Northern Cree, a big drum and hand drum group based out of Saddle Lake, Alberta, has recorded nearly 50 albums in its 40-year history. A nine-time Grammy nominee, Northern Cree is the host drum for the Two Cultures, One Community Powwow set for Feb. 23, 24 and 25 at the Pendleton Convention Center. COURTESY PHOTO

Inaugural celebration open to entire community

By WIL PHINNEY PENDLETON – Northern Cree, arguably the best big drum and hand drum group in the world, will host the first “Two Cultures, One Community” powwow Feb. 23, 24, and 25 at the Pendleton Convention Center.

Pendleton Mayor John Turner has proclaimed those days as “Two Cultures, One Community” (TCOC) weekend.

Thousands of people are expected to participate and attend the powwow, which is being organized by a committee of volunteers from the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian

Reservation (CTUIR), which is the major sponsor of the even.

More than 30 crafts and food vendors have committed to attending the event.

Pat Beard, manager of the Pendleton Convention Center and TCOC Chair, came up with the powwow idea after CTUIR dancers and singers performed for City and County Managers gathered in July of 2023 for their state convention.

Beard asked Fred Hill Sr., a tribal language instructor and vice-chair of the TCOC committee, to bring singers and drummers to entertain the convention guests and explain their traditional lifestyle.

“It was a powerful awakening for

all of those attendees,” Beard said.

“Each of them told us it was their favorite part of the convention.”

Beard and Hill started “bouncing ideas around” for a powwow this winter at the Convention Center.

“The name came very easy and it really encapsulates what he and I wanted to showcase,” Beard said.

“The Confederated Tribes have been here for more than 10,000 years and that is one of the real reasons Pendleton is such a unique and special place.”

Such tribal celebrations are always open to the public, but many non-Indians shy away unsure POWWOW CONTINUED PAGE 6

Native graduation rates on the rise

By CHRIS AADLAND Reporter

Nixyáawii Community School graduates await the presentation of diplomas during the 2016 commencement ceremony held at Wildhorse Resort & Casino.

CUJ FILE PHOTO

MISSION – Local Indigenous students continue to graduate high school at rates higher than all other Native American students in Oregon, according to statewide 2023 graduation numbers released in January.

At Pendleton High School, 82.4% of the Native students in the class of 2023 graduated, matching the rate for the rest of the school’s seniors. That was a jump of more than 10% from the previous year, and about 13% higher than the statewide graduation rate of 68% for tribal students,

according to the Pendleton School District, which released its numbers to coincide with the release of the statewide data.

Overall, 80% of Indigenous seniors in the Pendleton School District earned their diploma, which was an increase of 10% percent compared to 2022 – and higher than district’s overall graduation rate of 76.7%, a decrease of about 5% compared to the previous graduating class.

The rate includes students from Nixyáawii Community School, Hawthorne Alternative High School and Pendleton High School (PHS).

GRADUATION CONTINUED PAGE 5

2 Arts

CONFEDERATED UMATILLA JOURNAL | FEBRUARY 2024

Sensing Sasquatch exhibit opens March 2 Sasquatch’s Past, Present and Future in the High Desert Region Explored in Works by Five Indigenous Artists

By LIZ HILL BEND – What does Sasquatch — also known as Bigfoot — represent to you? The unknown? Adventure?

Mystery?

Sensing Sasquatch is a major new exhibition opening March 2, 2024, at the High Desert Museum examining the primate-like, reclusive and elusive being in the context of the High Desert region. The exhibit will be on view through January 12, 2025.

Native peoples of the Plateau have long known about, encountered, depicted and told stories about Sasquatch. Sensing Sasquatch will explore Sasquatch’s past, present and future in the High Desert region through an Indigenous lens. Works by five Indigenous artists will be on view, including: Phillip Cash Cash, Ph.D. (Nez Perce, Cayuse), Holly Anna Cougar Tracks DeCoteau Littlebull (Yakama, Nez Perce, Cayuse, Cree), Charlene “Tillie” Dimmick (Warm Springs), Frank Buffalo Hyde (Nez Perce, Onondaga) and Rocky LaRock (Salish).

“Sasquatch has captivated people in the region and, indeed, throughout the world,” says Executive Director Dana Whitelaw, Ph.D. “However, what many people don’t know is that Native Americans have had deeper relationships with Sasquatch throughout time.”

“Rather than the popular, mainstream view of Sasquatch, this exhibition will show Sasquatch as a protective entity for many Indigenous peoples of the High Desert,” says Whitelaw. “The exhibit will reflect the reverence that Native peoples have for Sasquatch and will be centered on Indigenous art, voices and storytelling.”

The original word for Sasquatch is “Sasq’ets,” which comes from the Halq’emeylem language of Coast Salish First Nation peoples from southwestern British Columbia.

Sasquatch is bipedal and much taller than a human. Sasquatch’s habitat is often associated with the wet rainforests of the coastal Pacific Northwest, but Sasquatch also lives beyond the green, lush climate. In the High Desert region, Sasquatch strides among the dry canyonlands, ponderosa pine forests and shrublands.

Popular depictions of Sasquatch can be found everywhere across America. Sasquatch is emblazoned on everything from t-shirts and road signs to beer cans and traveling mugs. Before entering the exhibition

Phillip Cash Cash, Nez Perce/Cayuse, created a 13-foot-tall “Bigfoot Rattle,” made of cottonwood – an item a Sasquatch could use, for the exhibit. Cash Cash is an artist, writer, endangered language advocate and linguistic anthropology scholar, with doctorates in linguistics and anthropology. HIGH DESERT MUSEUM COURTESY PHOTO

there will be an homage to the pop culture icon that Sasquatch has become, but visitors will be asked to leave these ideas and perceptions behind to consider another side of Sasquatch’s story. Outside the exhibition, a “bring-your-own” sticker interactive will encourage visitors to reflect on the popularity and kitsch of mainstream Sasquatch representations. Visitors will place their stickers on the back of a car that’s driving away into the distance — symbolically transporting away their Sasquatch stereotypes and entering into a new realm of experience and insight.

Visitors will be introduced to the Indigenous Plateau of the High Desert and the arid forests and canyonlands where Native peoples have long come into contact with and exchanged stories about Sasquatch. They will see representations, stories and artwork about Sasquatch and how they vary between tribes and across regions.

A contemporary carved mask by Rocky LaRock (Salish) will show visitors that knowledge of Sasquatch is both ancient and contemporary. A digital language map will show the various names for Sasquatch across the Indigenous Plateau and beyond.

The question of whether or not Sasquatch exists is irrelevant to the exhibit’s theme since in many Indigenous traditions, Sasquatch is a bona fide living, breathing, sentient being. Indeed, for many tribes across North America, Sasquatch is regarded as an elder, a relative and a spiritual guide who appears to deliver important message to humans. So, when Sasquatch suddenly comes into view and interacts with humans, it can be a life-changing experience.

Sasquatch as a conscious being with the agency to communicate with humans will be shown in direct

opposition to the popular view of Sasquatch as shy and who runs and hides when humans approach.

Phillip Cash Cash’s (Nez Perce, Cayuse) commissioned 13-foottall “Bigfoot Rattle,” made of cottonwood, that Sasquatch would use. Cash Cash is an artist, writer, endangered language advocate and linguistic anthropology scholar, with doctorates in linguistics and anthropology. As a fluent Nez Perce speaker, he works with communities and professional organizations on projects of cultural advocacy, identity and communication.

Many Indigenous people say that a Sasquatch encounter is a blessing. In turn, many Indigenous peoples have sought to protect Sasquatch’s anonymity and prevent human access to its wilderness habitat. HollyAnna CougarTracks DeCoteau Littlebull’s (Yakama, Nez Perce, Cayuse, Cree) commissioned “Protector” sculpture — will depict Sasquatch as a protective “big sister” — not a predator but one who deserves respect and safeguarding.

CougarTracks is an avid hunter and gatherer, grew up on the Yakama Indian Reservation and considers herself “a protector of KwiKwiyai, or Bigfoot. Bigfoot is considered the protector of all living things.” As a contemporary and traditional artist, CougarTracks has many creative pursuits – illustration, animation, saddle making, beadwork, storytelling and writing.

Other art will show visitors that Sasquatch is a being that exists in the past, present and future. Sasquatch has appeared in Indigenous artworks and stories for thousands of years and this continues today.

Frank Buffalo Hyde’s (Nez Perce, Onondaga) commissioned largescale futuristic Sasquatch painting with 3-D relief elements will

illustrate the perception of Sasquatch as an interdimensional enigma who lurked in the forest for millennia to a modern being that continues to live among humans in the present.

Buffalo Hyde attended the Santa Fe Fine Arts Institute and Institute of American Indians Arts in New Mexico. His artwork, he says on his website, combines modern culture and technology with Indigenous themes and tradition.

Sensing Sasquatch will include a yearlong series of associated public programs at the Museum that will explore and reflect on the past, present and future of Sasquatch as seen through an Indigenous lens.

Sensing Sasquatch is made possible by Bigfoot Beverages, the Bend Cultural Tourism Fund, Bend Magazine, Brooks Resources Corp., Central Oregon Daily, the James F. and Marion L. Miller Foundation, the Old Mill District, the Visit Central Oregon Future Fund and The X 100.7 FM with support from Bend Pet Express, Travel Oregon and Waypoint Hotel. Learn more at highdesertmuseum.org/sensingsasquatch.

ABOUT THE HIGH DESERT MUSEUM: The High Desert Museum opened in Bend, Oregon in 1982. It brings together wildlife, cultures, art, history and the natural world to convey the wonder of North America’s High Desert region. The Museum is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization accredited by the American Alliance of Museums, is a Smithsonian Affiliate, was the 2019 recipient of the Western Museums Association’s Charles Redd Award for Exhibition Excellence and was a 2021 recipient of the National Medal for Museum and Library Service. To learn more, visit highdesertmuseum.org.

Arts 3

FEBRUARY 2024 | CONFEDERATED UMATILLA JOURNAL

N. Scott Momaday, Pulitzer Prize winner and giant of Indigenous literature, walks on at 89

By HILLEL ITALIE NEW YORK (AP) — N. Scott Momaday, a Pulitzer Prize-winning storyteller, poet, educator and folklorist whose debut novel “House Made of Dawn” is widely credited as the starting point for contemporary Native American literature, has died.

He was 89.

Momaday died Jan. 24 at his home in Santa Fe, New Mexico, publisher HarperCollins announced. He had been in failing health.

“Scott was an extraordinary person and an extraordinary poet and writer. He was a singular voice in American literature, and it was an honor and a privilege to work with him,” Momaday’s editor, Jennifer Civiletto, said in a statement.

“His Kiowa heritage was deeply meaningful to him and he devoted much of his life to celebrating and preserving Native American culture, especially the oral tradition.”

“House Made of Dawn,” published in 1968, tells of a World War II soldier who returns home and struggles to fit back in, a story as old as war itself; in this case, home is a Native community in rural New Mexico. Much of the book was based on Momaday’s childhood in Jemez Pueblo, New Mexico, and on his conflicts between the ways of his ancestors and the risks and possibilities of the outside world.

“I grew up in both worlds and straddle those worlds even now,” Momaday said in a 2019 PBS documentary. “It has made for confusion and a richness in my life.”

Despite such works as John Joseph Mathews’ 1934 release “Sundown,” novels by American Indians weren’t widely recognized at the time of “House Made of Dawn.” A New York Times reviewer, Marshall Sprague, even contended in an otherwise favorable review that “American Indians do not write novels and poetry as a rule, or teach English in top-ranking universities, either. But we cannot be patronizing. N. Scott Momaday’s book is superb in its own right.”

Like Joseph Heller’s “Catch-22,” Momaday’s novel was a World War II story that resonated with a generation protesting the Vietnam War. In 1969, Momaday became the first Native American to win the fiction Pulitzer, and his novel helped launch a generation of authors, including Leslie Marmon Silko, James Welch and Louise Erdrich.

His admirers would range from the poet Joy Harjo, the country’s first Native to be named poet laureate, to the film stars Robert Redford and Jeff Bridges.

Over the following decades, he taught at Stanford, Princeton and Columbia universities, among other top-ranking schools, was a

commentator for NPR, and lectured worldwide. He published more than a dozen books, from “Angle of Geese and Other Poems” to the novels “The Way to Rainy Mountain” and “The Ancient Child,” and became a leading advocate for the beauty and vitality of traditional Native life.

Addressing a gathering of American Indian scholars in 1970, Momaday said, “Our very existence consists in our imagination of ourselves.” He championed Natives’ reverence for nature, writing that “the American Indian has a unique investment in the American landscape.” He shared stories told to him by his parents

oral tradition.” Besides his Pulitzer, his honors included an Academy of American Poets prize and, in 2019, the Dayton Literary Peace Prize.

Momaday was married twice, most recently to Regina Heitzer. He had four daughters, one of whom, Cael, died in 2017.

He was born Navarre Scott Mammedaty, in Lawton, Oklahoma, and was a member of the Kiowa Nation. His mother was a writer, and his father an artist who once told his son, “I have never known an Indian child who couldn’t draw,” a talent Momaday demonstrably shared. His artwork, from charcoal sketches to

the American West and Southwest, whether tributes to bears — the animals he most identified with — or a cycle of poems about the life of Billy the Kid, a childhood obsession.

He saw writing as a way of bridging the present with the ancient past and summed up his quest in the poem “If I Could Ascend”: Something like a leaf lies here within me; / it wavers almost not at all, / and there is no light to see it by / that it withers upon a black field. / If it could ascend the thousand years into my mouth, / I would make a word of it at last, / and I would speak it into the silence of the sun.

Kiowa writer N. Scott Momaday, who won a Pulitzer Prize in 1969 for his groundbreaking novel “House Made of Dawn,” appears at his home in Santa Fe, N.M., on Nov. 13, 2019. Momaday died Jan. 24 at his home in Santa Fe, New Mexico, publisher HarperCollins announced. He had been in failing health. RUSSELL CONTRERAS | AP FILE PHOTO

and grandparents. He regarded oral culture as the wellspring of language and storytelling, and dated American culture back not to the early English settlers, but also to ancient times, noting the procession of gods depicted in the rock art at Utah’s Barrier Canyon.

“We do not know what they mean, but we know we are involved in their meaning,” he wrote in the essay “The Native Voice in American Literature.”

“They persist through time in the imagination, and we cannot doubt that they are invested with the very essence of language, the language of story and myth and primal song.

They are 2,000 years old, more or less, and they remark as closely as anything can the origin of American literature.”

In 2007, President George W. Bush presented Momaday with a National Medal of Arts “for his writings and his work that celebrate and preserve Native American art and

oil paintings, were included in his books and exhibited in museums in Arizona, New Mexico and North Dakota. Audio guides to tours of the Smithsonian Institution’s Museum of the American Indian featured Momaday’s avuncular baritone.

After spending his teens in New Mexico, he studied political science at the University of Mexico and received a master’s and Ph.D. in English from Stanford. Momaday began as a poet, his favorite art form, and the publication of “House Made of Dawn” was an unintentional result of his early reputation. Editor Fran McCullough, of what is now HarperCollins, had met Momaday at Stanford and several years later contacted him and asked whether he would like to submit a book of poems.

Momaday did not have enough for a book, and instead gave her the first chapter of “House Made of Dawn.”

Much of his writing was set in

In 2019, he was the subject of a PBS “American Masters” documentary in which he discussed his belief he was a reincarnation of a bear connected to the Native American origin story around Devils Tower in Wyoming.

He told The Associated Press in a rare interview that the documentary allowed him to reflect on his life.

“I thought his voice was one of a storyteller. But because he had this poet ring to it, it took on a whole different tone,” Redford said in the film. “I think that’s why I got hooked on Scott.”

After more than a half-century since the publication of his first novel, Momaday said he was humbled that writers continued to say his work has influenced them.

“I’m greatly appreciative of that, but it comes a little bit of a surprise every time I hear it,” Momaday said.

“I think I have been an influence. It’s not something I take a lot of credit for.”

4 Community

CONFEDERATED UMATILLA JOURNAL | FEBRUARY 2024

Round-Up’s TETWP presents record donation PENDLETON – In a milestone achievement, the Pendleton RoundUp’s Tough Enough To Wear Pink (TETWP) campaign proudly presented a record-breaking donation of more than $40,000 to three local cancer support organizations Jan. 12. This contribution surpasses the previous highest sum raised during the campaign’s 10th anniversary in 2015 ($39,000) and follows a notable achievement of $36,000 in 2022.

The Round-Up Association’s TETWP, now in its 17th year, shared the more than $40,000 raised in 2023 with the CHI St. Anthony Hospital Cancer Care Clinic, the Kickin’ Cancer New Beginnings program, and the Eastern Oregon Cancer Network. Contributions came from sponsorships; TETWP merchandise sales; donations from spectators and volunteers; Pendleton Hat Company custom hat and Montana Silversmiths jewelry raffle ticket sales; collector’s pin sales; tips donated by Let’er Buck Room and other Round-Up bar volunteers on TETWP day during Round-Up; and the Pendleton Whisky After Slack Party the Tuesday of RoundUp week. Additionally, Clickit RV of Milton-Freewater played a pivotal role by donating a portion of all RV sales from Sept. 14 (TETWP at the Round-Up) through October’s Breast Cancer Awareness Month, resulting in a substantial $3,500 contribution.

“This year’s outpouring of support has been truly remarkable,” said Casey White-Zollman, co-chair of the Round-Up’s TETWP campaign.

“From individuals placing hundreddollar bills in our donation jars to those purchasing a $5 item with a $50 bill and insisting we keep

Pendleton Round-Up Tough Enough To Wear Pink Co-Chairs Jill Gregg (second from left) and Casey White-Zollman (third from left) present checks to Debra Shampine of the Kickin’ Cancer New Beginnings Program (far left) and Joan Sonnenburg and Shawna Nulf of the Eastern Oregon Cancer Network (far right) at the Pendleton Round-Up Administrative Building. Not pictured: Lisa Hummell from CHI St. Anthony Hospital Cancer Clinic. TOUGH ENOUGH TO WEAR PINK COURTESY PHOTO

the change, the generosity we’ve encountered is both astounding and deeply humbling. It’s through the kindness of others that we can make a meaningful impact and assist numerous individuals in nee” This high-profile event not only raises breast cancer awareness to the thousands of visitors who come to the Round-Up each year, but 100 percent of the proceeds stay within the Eastern Oregon community.

The three organizations benefiting from the TETWP campaign help local breast cancer patients from time of diagnosis through recovery.

The CHI St. Anthony Hospital Cancer Care Clinic provides breast prosthetics, mastectomy bras, post-op camisoles, lymphedema sleeves, pads & gloves, mastectomy swimwear, wigs, financial help and mileage reimbursement for cancer

patients, while the Eastern Oregon Cancer Network supports cancer patients through housing options during their treatments at the Eastern Oregon Cancer Center in Pendleton.

The Kick’n Cancer New Beginnings program provides free massage, personal training, and Pilates classes for recovering patients.

“The success of TETWP relies on the unwavering dedication of our sponsors, the Pendleton RoundUp, the local community, and our exceptional volunteers,” said Jill Gregg, co-chair of the RoundUp’s TETWP campaign. “Their support is truly remarkable, and we are immensely grateful for their contributions.”

The Round-Up’s TETWP campaign appreciates the support of its generous 2023 sponsors: Gold Level: Harold & Arlene

Schnitzer CARE Foundation/ Jordan Schnitzer, CHI St. Anthony Hospital, Toyota, Stangier Wealth Management - Silver Level: Elkhorn Media, Pendleton Whisky, Clickit RV of Milton-Freewater, Eastern Oregon Cancer Center, Swire CocaCola - Bronze Level: Dr. Robert Pratt, DMD, Grocery Outlet – Pendleton - Pink Level: Altrusa International of Pendleton, Montana Silversmiths, Wheatland Insurance, Columbia Distributing, Pendleton Hat Company, Coldwell Banker Farley Company, Oregon Grain Growers Brand Distillery, Banner Bank, Prodigal Son Brewing - Gate Sponsor: Prodigal Son Brewing Anyone interested in serving as a 2024 TETWP sponsor or volunteer can contact either Casey WhiteZollman, cmwzollman@gmail.com, or Jill Gregg, jill.c.gregg@gmail.com.

Happy Canyon Board names new president, director in January PENDLETON – The Happy Canyon Board of Directors selected Kipp Curtis of Pendleton as its 2024 President and welcomed Waylon Jumper of Pendleton as a new director during its annual stockholders meeting Jan. 4.

“I am honored to have been elected to this role and to carry on the 108-year-old tradition of the Happy Canyon Night Show,” said Curtis, who is beginning his eighth year as a Happy Canyon Director. “I’m fortunate to have the opportunity to volunteer alongside some incredible members of our community to put on Oregon’s official outdoor pageant in the Happy Canyon Arena, put on a fantastic concert, an energizing Xtreme Bulls finale and a great time

in Goldie’s Dance Hall.”

Curtis, 38, general manager of hay company Pacific Ag in Hermiston, has volunteered with Happy Canyon for decades. While on the Happy Canyon Board, he has served as the Sponsors Director, Court Director, Secretary and Treasurer. Before joining the Happy Canyon Board, the Carrol College graduate helped with set up and take down of the concert stage and bull riding arena, and also was a long-time Happy Canyon show volunteer, running the “street phone” during the show, and then helped with games as a dealer in Goldie’s Bar. Curtis has also served as a director of the Northwest Intercollegiate Rodeo Finals Association board. He and his

New Happy Canyon Bar Director Waylon Jumper (left) and 2024 Happy Canyon President Kipp Curtis (right) after their roles were confirmed at the Jan. 4 Happy Canyon Stockholders Meeting. HAPPY CANYON COURTESY PHOTO

wife, Cydney – who is also a 30-year Happy Canyon volunteer – have three children, Collins, Nolin and Caroline, all of whom perform in the Happy Canyon show.

In addition to selecting Curtis as Happy Canyon’s new president, the Board also elected Waylon Jumper, 57, of Pendleton as the new Bars and Concessions Director. Jumper has a decorated past as a longtime Happy Canyon volunteer, playing an integral role in converting the

Happy Canyon arena from a concert venue to a bull riding arena to the night show each year. Jumper is a business owner in Eatonville, Wash., and recently relocated to Pendleton.

He and his wife, Diana, have two married daughters – Shelby Severin and Riley Helbig – and one granddaughter, Taytum.

The Happy Canyon Night Show takes place September 11-14, 2024.

Tickets are on sale now at www. pendletonroundup.com.

Community 5

FEBRUARY 2024 | CONFEDERATED UMATILLA JOURNAL

Toastmasters award scholarships memorial speech contest

By ROY JONES

PENDLETON – Gary L. Hildebrand was a longtime District 9 Toastmaster, a member of the Cay-Uma-Wa and Pendleton Toastmasters clubs, a DTM, and a two-time district director.

He believed deeply in the power of Toastmasters to improve people’s lives. His Toastmasters motto was “Tools for Living, Tools for Life” and he had his motto embroidered on polo shirts that he wore to every Toastmasters event.

Gary was pivotal in starting and supporting Toastmasters clubs within the Oregon prison system. He was also an unofficial founder of the Cay-Uma-Wa Toastmasters club at the Wildhorse Resort & Casino.

After Gary’s passing in early 2022 the Cay-Uma-Wa and Pendleton Toastmasters clubs wanted to do something to continue the legacy of this individual who had been a friend and mentor to so many. The idea of an “Annual Gary L. Hildebrand Memorial Youth Speech Contest” was conceived during that year with joint hosting by these two clubs.

The first contest in August of 2022 had two student contestants.

Wildhorse Resort & Casino generously donated the use of the meeting location and prizes for the winners. In order to reach more youth contestants, it was decided to hold future contests during the school year.

The second annual contest was held Jan. 16 at Wildhorse Resort & Casino. The four student contestants

GRADUATION CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

It was only the second time there hasn’t been a graduation gap for Native American students in the district, said Matt Yoshioka, the district’s Director of Curriculum, Instruction & Assessment. That graduation rate has also been trending upwards over the last several years.

At Nixyáawii, the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation’s public charter school, the rate increased slightly to 78.3% of Native students compared to the previous year and was the second highest rate in the school’s history.

While the Pendleton School District and PHS overall saw declines, Superintendent Kevin Headings said the improvements among its Indigenous students was encouraging.

“Although the district would like to see more students graduate, the results across the board are positive, especially with our Native American students,” Headings said in a Jan. 25 press release. “These increases reflect the many hundreds of hours PSD staff, students, and families pour into their efforts to find success. We are working to improve and grow at

were given the opportunity to speak for 3 - 6 minutes on a topic of their choosing. The contestants spoke in the following randomly determined order: Julianne Jones, 18, spoke on “Just Say No to Book Bans.”

Dena Loiland, 15, spoke on “Common Misconceptions in Agriculture.”

Roy D. Jones, 16, spoke on “What Memorial Day Means to Me.” Miriam Olds, 17, spoke on “The Slight Edge Principle.”

It takes a small army to put on a successful contest. From Pendleton Toastmasters club, there was Jim Marquardt as the Toastmaster, Darlene Marquardt as the Zoom Master, and Leigh PinkhamJohnston as a ballot counter in addition to creating the programs,

the award certificates, and all the contest printed materials. CayUma-Wa Toastmasters club had Jan Taylor as the Timer, Mary Halfmoon as a ballot counter, Roy F. Jones as the Contest Chair, and Holly Anderson as the Sergeant at Arms.

Other Toastmasters in District 9 also supported the contest with Ed Keeney serving as Chief Judge and Debra Kroon, Beth Read, and Kathy Hanson all serving as contest judges via Zoom.

Gary’s wife, Cynthia Protheroe, was on hand and spoke briefly about Gary’s legacy and his belief in the power of participation in Toastmasters.

Gary’s daughter and son-in-law Trina Hildebrand Tobey & Todd Tobey, who could not be present due to the weather, generously sponsored scholarships

to the top 3 contestants.

Julianne Jones was awarded 1st place and received a $1,000 scholarship.

Roy D. Jones was 2nd and received a $600 scholarship.

Dena Loiland was 3rd and received a $400 scholarship.

Miriam Olds received a “Pins & Pizza” package, 4 movie tickets, and a dining certificate donated by Wildhorse Resort & Casino.

As the scholarships had not been announced in advance all the contestants were surprised by the awards. First place winner Julianne said afterwards, “I’ll be attending the aviation technology program at Utah State University in the fall. This scholarship is such a godsend and couldn’t have come at a better time.

Thank you! Thank you!”

Cynthia Protheroe, center, is surrounded by contest participants showing off their awards. L-R are Roy D. Jones, Julianne Jones, Dena Loiland, and Miriam Olds. CAY-UMA-WA TOASTMASTERS COURTESY PHOTO

all levels in our schools and remain committed to every student, every day.”

Graduation rates for Indigenous students at NCS and in PSD schools have historically been higher than the state average – which has been between 67% and 69% – for the last several years, according to the data.

Nixyáawii and PSD officials attributed the high rates to programming, like Native language classes, partnerships with the tribe and other support services targeted towards Indigenous students, among other factors.

NCS Principal Ryan Heinrich credited much of the school’s success to a dedicated staff that experiences little turnover. For example, he said staff work with students to keep them on track or help them catch up on some Fridays (the school only holds official classes four days a week) when the school is open for students to come get extra help.

In addition, Heinrich said being fully funded, with financial support from the CTUIR, and having an additional behavioral support staff member available to students, contributes to its graduation rates. A relatively new building, along with cultural programming, like Umatilla language classes, make the school a place young tribal members want to attend, he added.

“The kids have a place to call home,” Heinrich said, adding that his and NCS staff’s goal is not to just surpass the state’s Native American graduation rate, but to also at least match the overall state graduation rate considering not all NCS students are Indigenous. “We’re using all the resources the tribe provides for the Native American kids and community.”

Although the high Native American graduation rates should be celebrated, Yoshioka, the Pendleton district administrator, said the students who didn’t earn a diploma shouldn’t be disregarded.

“We hope we can get them to the finish line still,” he said.

Although the rate for Native Americans decreased slightly, the overall graduation rate for all Oregon students in the class of 2023 was 81.3%, which was the second highest rate in the state’s history, according to the Oregon Department of Education.

“I am never satisfied when it comes to our kids. We will continue working hard to improve results in the coming school years,” Gov. Tina Kotek said. “Still, it’s important that we are seeing some positive results in key areas where the state has been targeting resources.”

Yellowhawk’s Bronson honored with peer award Maurice Bronson, Yellowhawk Tribal Health Center Behavioral Health teammate, was awarded the “Peer of the Year” from Fortaleza Atravez Barreras (FAB), also known as Strength Through Barriers, during a peer retreat Dec. 16.

“Maurice is passionate about supporting this community as well as always advocating for minority populations to receive the services they often times do not have access too. She is determined to fight for equality in accessing behavioral health services across the board.” said Behavioral Health Director Cindy Cecil.

“I am honored and appreciative of the award, so many are deserving,” Bronson said.

FAB is a nonprofit organization that provides peer support, education, community events and advocacy to increase access to Mental Health Services and specializes in serving disadvantaged communities.

Their educational curriculum aims to promote culturally responsive, trauma informed, mental health services and wellness activities.

6 Community

CONFEDERATED UMATILLA JOURNAL | FEBRUARY 2024

POWWOW CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

if they are welcome at the cultural events.

Hill said many people from this region have never seen a powwow. He noted that it will be the first powwow experience for Kara Woolsey, director of Travel Pendleton.

“For many it may be their first experience. There’s that uncertainty.

Some may feel powwows are off limits, but I hope people come out.

It’s going to be interesting to see how we interact as Indians and nonIndians,” Hill said.

Hill said Beard came up with the “Two Cultures, One Community” name.

“What does it really mean?” Hill asked. “I asked an elder who said we are all tananawit – people, one village, one dwelling place. This place is known as Tile’epe, ‘place of the small cliffs’ and we all reside here.”

Terri Carnes, TCOC secretary volunteer, said everyone, especially children, are invited to attend the powwow.

“I’m looking forward to seeing the community here, surrounding communities, as well as other states come together to have a great time,” Carnes said.

Melinda Broncheau, another TCOC Committee member who designed the event poster, said she expects a “lot of people to come and watch.”

Broncheau noted that this February powwow comes at a time of year when few things, with the exception of high school basketball, are taking place. District and state basketball tournaments at the Convention Center bookend the powwow.

Northern Cree, a nine-time Grammy nominee, has won a number of awards, including the Native American Music Awards, Canadian Aboriginal Music Awards, Aboriginal Peoples’ Music Choice Awards/Indigenous Music Awards and Indian Summer Music Awards.

The group also won a 2017 Juno Award, which are presented by the Canadian Academy of Recording Artists and Sciences. They won the Juno, singing “Going Home Star,” for Classical Album of the Year – Large Ensemble.

Northern Cree will come to Pendleton from their headquarters in Saddle Lake, near Maskewich, Alberta, Canada. The two First Nation communities are home to some 36,000 Cree Indians.

As a hand-drum ensemble, the group has performed all over the world, from Mexico and Moroco to Greenland and across Europe.

The group performed in front 50,000 people at Trafalgar Square in London and was invited to perform “Cree Cuttin” live on the pre-telecast

Charles Wood III, enrolled CTUIR member, lives in Pilot Rock and works at Wildhorse Casino & Resort. He’s an award-winning hand drummer and son of Charles Wood II, an original member of Northern Cree. His mother is Dorothy Cyr, also enrolled CTUIR and employed at Wildhorse. COURTESY PHOTO

For more information about the TCOC powwow, including schedules, visit the website at twoculturesonecommunitypowwow.com. portion of the 60th annual Grammy Awards in 2017. The performance was streamed worldwide.

With nearly 50 albums to their credit, Northern Cree has performed with rock bands and other artists. In 2008, rapper M.I.A and hip-hop star Santigold sampled Northern Cree’s music in the single Get It Up, and in 2017 Pharrell Williams, record producer and songwriter, set

in on a drum circle while the group was performing in North Dakota.

The group also provided music in the film Grey Owl (1999) and was featured in the song and music video “Indomitable” by DJ Shub, which won Best Music Video in the Native American Music Awards.

There are different stories about how the group began.

In the 1960s, before it became

Northern Cree, individuals from the Saddle Lake community, including Charles Wood I (the Wood brothers’ father and Charles Wood III’s grandfather) would meet in a small log home to practice their traditional songs.

“People were always visiting.

There was no TV so the people sang and drummed and told stories,” Steve Wood said.

Charles Wood III, an enrolled member of the CTUIR who performs in the Pendleton area as an individual hand-drum singer, was told a different origin story, one that provided the name for the group.

He said his father and uncles – Earl, Randy and Steve – were attending a stick game tournament on the Nez Perce Reservation in Lapwai, Idaho in 1983, when they decided they wanted to drum.

“They knew one Cree man who lived in Lapwai,” Charles Wood III said. “They asked him if they could borrow a drum. He loaned it to them and as they set up they hit the drum on one side, then flipped it over to try the other side. The name Northern Cree was written on that side of the drum.”

An original Northern Cree member, Charles Wood II, who died in 2018, was married to Dorothy Cyr, an enrolled CTUIR member, and was the father of Pilot Rock resident Charles Wood III, who plans to release his first hand drum album in late summer. Cyr and her two boys, Charles Wood III and Shane, work at Wildhorse Resort & Casino on the Umatilla Indian Reservation.

Northern Cree routinely performs as the host drum at two dozen celebrations a year, many in the round-dance style, which is different from the powwow dancing of the Pacific Northwest.

The 15-member group, with drummers from across Treaty 6 in Alberta and Saskatchewan, has produced nearly 50 albums, many of which have been recorded live at powwows. However, their last album, “Oskimacitahowin: A New Beginning,” was recorded in-studio at the National Music Centre in Calgary.

Beard, at the Pendleton Convention Center, said the city and reservation community should take the opportunity to join in more activities like the powwow.

“I love what the partnership with CTUIR does for Pendleton,” Beard said. “The community welcomes everyone and makes them feel at home.”

Besides the CTUIR, sponsors include the City of Pendleton, Amazon Web Services, Nixyaawii Community Financial Services, Cayuse Holdings/Cayuse Native Solutions, Umatilla County Commissioners, Coyote Business Park, Travel Oregon, Travel Pendleton, Elkhorn Media, Port of Kennewick, Wildhorse Resort & Casin, and The Radison Hotel.

Community 7

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8 Health

CONFEDERATED UMATILLA JOURNAL | FEBRUARY 2024

Tribal leaders push for additional funding as opioid overdose deaths dramatically rise OLYMPIA, Wash. (AP) — Tribal leaders in Washington state are urging lawmakers there to pass a bill that would send millions of dollars in funding to tribal nations to help them stem a dramatic rise in opioid overdose deaths.

The money would be critical in helping to fight the crisis, said Tony Hillaire, chairman of Lummi Nation in northwest Washington and one of four tribal leaders to testify Monday in support of the bill.

“The story is too familiar nowadays: Having to go to a funeral every single day, declaring fentanyl crises and state of emergencies in response,” he said. “At some point it has to be our time to step up and address this issue head on. And a big part of that is getting organized and preparing. And that’s why we believe that this bill is so important.”

Native Americans and Alaska Natives in Washington die from opioid overdoses at four times the state average, according to the Office of the Governor. These deaths have increased dramatically since 2019, with at least 98 in 2022 — 73 more than in 2019, according to the most recent data available.

The proposed measure would guarantee $7.75 million or 20% of

the funds deposited into an opioid settlement account during the previous fiscal year — whichever is greater — go to tribes annually to respond to the opioid crisis. The account includes money from the state’s $518M settlement in 2022 with the nation’s three largest opioid distributors.

State Sen. John Braun, a Republican who sponsored the bill, said he envisions the funds likely being distributed through a grant program to support the 29 federally recognized tribes in the state in sustaining, creating or expanding programs aimed at treatment, recovery and other services.

Hillaire said he asks that the funding not come with any sort of reporting requirements that tribes would have to provide about the crisis, which would put a burden on them.

“We’ve been very vocal in describing drug harms and raising the nature of the opioid crisis to the highest levels,” he said. “And it’s suggested that it will take a generation to address even the basic harms of the opioid crisis.”

State Sen. Claudia Kauffman, a member of the Nez Perce tribe and another sponsor of the bill, said during the hearing that the crisis goes beyond the numbers.

“This represents lives lost. This represents families shattered. This really reflects the tragedy happening within the Indian community,” said Kauffman, a Democrat. “And tribal communities, our world can be very small. And so, when there is one loss it effects so many people within our community. And it is felt deeply.”

In an interview with The Associated Press, she referenced the complex law enforcement

jurisdictional maze that exists in Indian Country and the role she suspects it has played in this crisis.

“Some tribes have their own tribal police, some have a contract with the county police and some just rely on the federal police,” she said. “And so having this mix of jurisdiction may seem attractive to some of the traffickers out there.”

Kauffman said she sees this as merely a first step toward addressing the issue, and one that would help tribal Nations address the crisis in a manner that is distinct to them.

“The services will be provided in a manner that really honors our culture, our traditions, our services, our value systems, and also to include our ceremonies in an intergenerational setting so that we have the respect and understanding of our elders as well as with our youth,” she said.

Democratic Gov. Jay Inslee has also pushed for funding to address the crisis. In his 2024 proposed supplemental budget, he recommended funding a campaign to spread awareness in tribes about opioids, including how to find treatment and use naloxone, an opioid overdose reversal medication.

Health 9

FEBRUARY 2024 | CONFEDERATED UMATILLA JOURNAL

Respiratory viruses on rise, Covid-19 variant dominating SEATTLE – Winter is here, inflicting its usual array of symptoms – coughs, nasal congestion, fatigue and fever – and, this year, a new COVID-19 variant is dominating the scoreboard.

COVID-19 is leading hospital admissions among the respiratory viruses, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

In January, 25 U.S. states had high or very high levels for respiratory illnesses with fever, cough and other symptoms. That’s down from the 37 states previously reported, the CDC said.

Since October, there have been at least 16 million illnesses, 180,000 hospitalizations, and 11,000 deaths from flu so far this season. The CDC said 47 children have died of flu.

With vaccination rates low, what can you do to protect yourself from respiratory viruses, including influenza, COVID-19 and RSV? BACK TO BASICS Hand-washing remains crucial to reducing the spread of viral infections. Take your time at the sink.

Twenty seconds is recommended.

If you feel silly singing “Happy Birthday” twice while you scrub with soapy water, count to 20. Slowly.

Use hand sanitizer with 60% alcohol when you don’t have access to soap and water.

Also, wear a mask in crowded

areas. Increase ventilation in your workplace and home.

NOT TOO LATE TO VACCINATE In the United States, only 17% of those eligible have received the updated COVID-19 vaccine, which provides good protection against the now-dominant JN.1 variant.

It’s not too late to roll up your sleeve. While you’re at it, make sure you’ve had your annual flu shot.

Those 60 and older may want to get the RSV vaccine, which also is recommended during pregnancy to prevent RSV in infants.

WHEN YOU HAVE CHILDREN AT HOME Young children seem to pick up every germ going around. Can their parents avoid getting sick?

This time of year, children are indoors in close quarters with other kids, touching the same toys and surfaces, said Jennifer Sonney of University of Washington School of Nursing in Seattle. Some haven’t learned to cover their coughs and they simply haven’t been exposed to many illnesses, so their immune systems are still developing.

It’s important to take care of yourself if you’re a parent or caregiver of young children, said Sonney who is immediate past president of the National Association of Pediatric Nurse Practitioners.

It’s not too late to vaccinate. In the United States, only 17% of those eligible have received the updated COVID-19 vaccine, which provides good protection against the now-dominant JN.1 variant. FILE PHOTO

“We know if you are sleep deprived or dehydrated or experiencing a lot of stress, that can compromise your immune function,” Sonney said.

Having young children is very demanding, “so all of this advice needs to be interpreted within the context of reality,” she said. “Despite doing everything right, kids are still going to get colds.”

A special note if your baby is sick: It’s a good idea to have saline drops and a bulb syringe at home. They can be used to clear mucus from tiny nostrils.

“A couple drops of saline into one nostril and suction it and then do the other side,” Sonney said. “Doing that before eating and sleep is going to help a lot.”

A home kit for children could also include acetaminophen or ibuprofen for fevers, tissues for runny noses and water bottles of sippy cups for staying hydrated.

TEST TO TREAT If you do get sick, prompt testing can help determine what you have.

That’s important to see if you need one of the medicines that can help prevent severe illness: Paxlovid for COVID-19 and Tamiflu for flu.

If you don’t have a test kit at home, look for a test-to-treat site near you.

There is also a free home-based testto-treat program for adults who are uninsured or rely on government health insurance. For information visit www.test2treat.org.

10 Health

CONFEDERATED UMATILLA JOURNAL | FEBRUARY 2024

Education 11

FEBRUARY 2024 | CONFEDERATED UMATILLA JOURNAL

What college students need to know about FAFSA changes NEW YORK (AP) — A new version of the federal student aid application known as the FAFSA is now available to all college applicants for the 20242025 school year.

The new Free Application for Federal Student Aid was designed to make it easier for students and parents to apply and to make more of them eligible for funding.

Students can usually fill out the FAFSA starting in October, but the 2024-2025 version only became available late December because the Department of Education (DOE) was still working on the new form.

As of Jan. 8, more than a million students had successfully submitted applications, according to the DOE. Every year, more than 17 million students fill out the FAFSA. The relaunch brings major changes such as fewer questions, the ability to list more colleges and availability in more languages. However, the update means students will get their financial aid offers later than usual.

Here’s what you need to know: HOW DOES THE FAFSA WORK? The FAFSA is a free government application that uses financial information from you and your family to determine whether you can get financial aid from the federal government to pay for college.

The FAFSA will send your financial information to the schools you say you are interested in attending. It previously only allowed you to send your information to 10 schools, but the new application allows you to send your application to up to 20.

Each school that admits you will send you a financial aid package.

The amount of financial aid you get depends on each institution.

The application is also used to determine eligibility for other federal student aid programs, like work-study and loans, as well as state and school aid. Sometimes, private, merit-based scholarships also require FAFSA information to determine if you qualify.

WHEN WILL THE 2024-2025 FAFSA BE AVAILABLE? FAFSA is now available to everyone 24 hours a day, according to the DOE. WHO SHOULD FILL OUT THE FAFSA? Anyone planning to attend college next year. Both first-time college students and returning students can apply for the FAFSA. Many decide not to apply thinking their family’s income is too high to be considered, but all students are advised to fill out the application.

Students and parents can use an online federal student aid estimator to get an early approximation of their financial package.

WHAT ARE THE KEY CHANGES FOR THE NEW FAFSA? In general, the relaunch of the application is meant to make the process smoother for students

The FAFSA is a free government application that uses financial information from you and your family to determine whether you can get financial aid from the federal government to pay for college. A new version of the application was made available in January.

and their families. The Education Department also said the relaunch will increase eligibility for financial aid for low- and middle-income students.

“Most students and families will be able to complete the process in less time and we’ll see more students qualify for need-based aid,” said Justin Draeger, president of the National Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators.

Here are the key changes: — FSA IDs Starting this year, everyone who needs to provide information for the FAFSA must create an FSA ID. In previous years, only the student and one parent needed to have an FSA ID. For the 2024-2025 form, anyone who needs to provide information, such as the student’s spouse, biological or adoptive parent, or the parent’s spouse, must have an individual FSA ID. To create an FSA ID, contributors need their Social Security number and email address.

— Student Aid Index The new FAFSA will replace the Expected Family Contribution with a different formula called the Student Aid Index that will help determine the amount that each student can receive in financial aid.

Both formulas consider the income and assets of the student and their parents and include both taxed and untaxed income. But unlike the old formula, the new one won’t benefit families with multiple students in college. The new formula will allow students from families that are not required to file federal income taxes to automatically be considered for a high financial aid amount.

— IRS Data Retrieval Tool The updated FAFSA will include fewer questions, which will make the application quicker to fill out.

However, all contributors must give their consent for their IRS information to be directly imported into the FAFSA. In previous years, it was optional to use the IRS Data Retrieval Tool. Now, if a contributor doesn’t consent to having their information imported, the student will not be eligible for financial aid.

— More languages available The FAFSA will be available in the 11 most common languages.

Previously it was only available in English and Spanish.

— More eligibility for Federal Pell Grants In the 2024-2025 award year, more students will be eligible to receive a federal Pell Grant. According to the Education Department, an estimated 610,000 new students will be eligible for a grant. It will also allow 1.5 million more students to receive the maximum Pell Grant award, which will bring the number of students who are eligible for the maximum award to over 5.2 million.

The maximum federal Pell Grant award available last year was $7,395.

DOES THE FAFSA TAKE INFLATION INTO ACCOUNT? As part of the relaunch, the Education Department was supposed to include the most recent inflation data in the Student Aid Index. However, the department didn’t update the inflation level for the new FAFSA. The application kept the inflation level from April of 2020 rather than April of 2023, the Washington Post first reported. This omission can make some students qualify for a smaller financial aid award.

The Education Department hasn’t said if they will update the numbers for the 2024-2025 FAFSA. But, if

they did, this could mean more delays for students, McCarthy said.

Because of the relaunch, students will get their financial award offers later than usual already and if the Education Department chooses to fix the inflation numbers, it could mean further delays.

“If they do not make those updates, then you have students losing out potentially on some dollars,” said Karen McCarthy, NASFAA’s vice president of public policy and federal relations. “But the aid offers could conceivably be sent out from institutions a little bit earlier. So students would get the aid offers earlier, and would have more time to make enrollment decisions. So there’s definitely a trade-off at play here,” McCarthy said.

WHEN CAN I EXPECT TO KNOW MY FINANCIAL AID AWARD? Since the process has been delayed this year, students will begin to receive their offers later than usual.

If a student fills out the application as soon as it’s available, their listed colleges won’t receive their information until potentially the end of January, Draeger said.

“There will be a bit of a gap and potentially delay so we ask for a little bit of patience,” Draeger said.

In previous years, colleges would get information about students shortly after they started submitting the FAFSA in October. That meant students would receive their financial aid awards along with their acceptance letters in January.

Draeger recommends that students regularly check their desired college’s website for new relevant deadlines.

12 Education

CONFEDERATED UMATILLA JOURNAL | FEBRUARY 2024

Walla Walla Community College offering tips, localized help with financial aid applications Nixyaawii Community School Q2 Honor Roll Students earning a 4.0 grade average are: Liana Stewart Breyon Minthorn Devon Kerby Shippentower Jessalyn Minthorn Ella Stewart Students earning a grade average between 3.5 – 3.99 are: Penelope Gavin Sun Schimmel Gracie Wilson Harley Gone Jacob Jones Rylen Bronson Addison Jones Kosey Symon Picard Marcellus Scott Lillian Doolittle Allen Zamudio

WALLA WALLA, WASH.—If you’ve been thinking about going to college to master a trade or earn your degree, there’s no better time than now.

In December, the U.S. Department of Education released a new Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) for the 2024–2025 school year. The new FAFSA expands eligibility for student aid—including Pell Grants, which don’t have to be repaid. So even if you weren’t eligible before, you might be now.

Filling out a financial aid application is also the gateway to programs like Walla Walla Community College’s Warrior Pledge program, which can cover tuition costs not paid by other financial aid.

It can fill the gap for eligible students so that money doesn’t have to be a barrier to your education.

Here are two important tips to remember as you get started.

Tip 1: Give yourself plenty of time.

This year, WWCC is moving to a new financial aid cycle. Funding for the 2024–2025 school year will start in Summer Quarter. That means if you want to start school in the summer or fall, the priority deadline to apply for financial aid is May 1.

Because the FAFSA is new this year, it’s especially important to start your application early. You’ll want

Walla Walla Community College library | COURTESY PHOTO

to give yourself plenty of time to gather the info you’ll need and work through any roadblocks.

Tip 2: Don’t go it alone! We’re here to help.

WWCC’s financial aid specialists are here to help you every step of the way.

Students who’ve already graduated from high school and are planning to attend WWCC can reach out to WWCC’s advisors and navigators for help completing the FAFSA and finding other sources of financial aid. Call 509.527.4262 or email warrioradvising@wwcc.edu to set up an appointment.

Students who are currently in high school in the Walla Walla area and are planning on attending any college can get help from Financial Aid Outreach Specialist Marisol

Luengas-Maya. She can help you set up your accounts, work through the FAFSA and locate other sources of financial aid.

You can meet with her on any of her regular days at area high schools.

You can find her on: • Mondays at Lincoln High School.

• Tuesdays at College Place High School.

• Wednesdays at Walla Walla High School.

• Thursdays (as needed) at Prescott High School.

You may also set up a one-onone appointment with Mari on WWCC’s Walla Walla Campus.

Call 509-296-9642 or email marisol. luengasmaya@wwcc.edu.

- Information courtesy Walla Walla Community College

GED grads can earn on average $9,000 more a year.

Millions of people have passed the GED test.

You can do this!

Call, email, or visit Katherine at the CTUIR GED program for information: Katherine Palmer, CTUIR GED Instructor & Coach KatherinePalmer@ctuir.org Office: (541) 429-7824

Cell: 541-975-0118

Nixya’awii Education Center Higher Education Classroom 221

Education 13

FEBRUARY 2024 | CONFEDERATED UMATILLA JOURNAL

American Indian College Fund scholarship season begins Feb. 1 DENVER – Hundreds of scholarships in all areas of study are available for Indigenous students with the American Indian College Fund and Indigenous students attending tribal colleges and universities can receive additional scholarship support.

The College Fund encourages any Native American who is a U.S. citizen and an enrolled member - or descendant of an enrolled member - of a state or federally recognized tribe to apply. Applicants must have a minimum cumulative 2.0 grade point average and plan to enroll as a full-time student at a nonprofit, accredited college or university.

The priority deadline to apply for scholarships is May 31.

The College Fund will host a free scholarship kick-off informational webinar March 20 at 5:00 p.m.

PST. To attend, visit the College Fund website for a Zoom link and login information. The webinar will be recorded and other virtual opportunities will be available throughout the scholarship season.

Students can visit https:// collegefund.org /students/ scholarships/ for the Zoom link and further information.

OSU names Klamath member as inaugural director of Native American, tribal programs

By CHRIS BRANHAM CORVALLIS – Angie Morrill, an accomplished scholar and experienced leader in Native education and cultural support, has been named the inaugural director of Native American and Tribal Programs for the Oregon State University Division of Extension and Engagement.

Morrill, an enrolled member of the Klamath Tribes, will cross-collaborate with a variety of OSU Extension Service programs to meet the needs of the Native American/Alaska Native communities in Oregon.

Morrill will provide leadership for curriculum development, scholarship, research and data gathering in relation to Native American/Alaska Native and Tribal inclusion and traditional knowledge consideration in the educational programming and services of OSU’s Extension and Engagement.

“We are extremely excited to have Dr. Morrill join the OSU Extension leadership team in this inaugural role,” said Jeff ShermanDuncan, associate vice provost for partnerships in the Division of Extension and Engagement.

“Dr. Morrill brings a wealth of

relationships, experiences and knowledge from across the state, including as the director of Indian Education, admissions and teaching experience at University of Oregon, public relations director with Klamath Tribes, and most recently as a contractor to write the implementation plan for the statewide curriculum, ‘Tribal History/Shared History.’”

Due to systemic racism in government policies, such as relocation and termination of Tribes, the boarding school era and many other factors, Native American/Alaska Native students in Oregon face several challenges. They include a lagging high school graduation rate, lack of representation of Native American/Alaska Native teachers and staff and lack of understanding of tribal history and culture in higher education institutions. As a result of these issues, the need for dedicated culturally responsive programing to engage Native American/Alaska Native students and families in post-secondary education pathways is urgent.

Morrill will serve as a member of the OSU Extension Open Campus leadership team to advance and sustain its mission to provide local access to education through

Angie Morrill

community-based partnerships and culturally relevant programming to help meet the needs of Native American/Alaska Native Oregon communities.

Morrill is an Ecampus instructor at OSU and a pro-tem instructor at University of Oregon where she teaches classes in Native studies.

She was the program director of Title VI Indian Education for Portland Public Schools from 2016-2021.

She earned a bachelor’s degree in ethnic studies at the University of Oregon and a master’s and doctorate in ethnic studies at the University of California, San Diego.

Morrill was awarded a Chancellor’s Postdoctoral Fellowship in Native American Studies at University of California, Davis.

14 Sports

CONFEDERATED UMATILLA JOURNAL | FEBRUARY 2024

Kola Shippentower has signed to play with the Oregon Ravens of the Women’s National Football Conference. KOLA SHIPPENTOWER | COURTESY PHOTOS

Oregon Ravens sign MMA fighter Kola Shippentower

By ANNIE FOWLER East Oregonian PENDLETON – Kola Shippentower has done everything from mixed martial arts to acting to bodybuilding and buffalo hunting. Now, the Umatilla tribal member is adding football player to her resume.

Shippentower, 34, has signed to play with the Oregon Ravens of the Women’s National Football Conference.

“It’s a cool opportunity,” Shippentower said.

“That’s kinda the big motivation behind MMA, it’s male dominated. With that sport and this one, I want to be able to show my boys they don’t have to look to mainstream media to find inspiration and guidance. I want them to know they can do whatever they want.”

She said it also shows young people on the reservation that there are opportunities out there.

“If one of our own is doing really good, we are all winning,” Shippentower said. “There are so many indigenous girls who are doing wrestling, rugby and other sports. It has been cool to see that happen.”

It was through an MMA competition that Shippentower happened upon the Ravens.

“I have been traveling the country for about 12 years for competitions,” she said. “There are IBJJF competitions that we go to. Last year, we went to the one in L.A. One of the girls I competed against, she ended up winning, but we ended up being friends.”

Shippentower and her new friend began to follow each other on Instagram.

“When she started playing football, I thought that was badass,” Shippentower said. “I saw their team was playing Oregon. I went to their page and filled out the form. Their general manager (Kim Pardon) started following me. She called and invited me to a practice. That’s how it happened. The power of social media.”

Women’s football The Ravens, who are based in Milwaukie, joined the WNFC in 2019, then the coronavirus pandemic wiped out the 2020 season. The Ravens played

their first game in 2021.

Asia Wisecarver, who replaced Pardon as GM last month, is excited to have a player with the various talents that Shippentower possesses.

“One of the things in my short time in knowing her, is the level of commitment and dedication, her work on the field, and driving from there to be here,” Wisecarver said. “She has got a lot of great qualities and has excelled in other sports too. That commitment and dedication is very valuable to them, our culture and organization. How cool is it to be a representative of her tribe? I’m excited for her to have the support, and what is real and true as a tribal member.”

Wisecarver has been around women’s football over the past 20 years as a player, coach and GM. She has degrees from Linfield and University of Portland.

“My professional background and football background are needed for this team,” she said.

The Ravens are a diverse group of players of varying ages, ethnic backgrounds, professions and disabilities.

Shippentower is an elder support specialist on the reservation, and not the only team member with Indigenous ties.

The team’s hydration specialist, Misty Bailey, is a Grande Ronde tribal member, while player Jen Southall is Cherokee.

“The diversity and inclusion are central to the league standards and ours,” Wisecarver said.

“Young people and those in their 50s coming together. That is unique.”

Shippentower attended the WNFC National Signing Day on Jan. 5, at Dick’s Sporting Goods in Portland.

She will wear No. 29, but her position has not yet been decided.

“That is a big question,” she said. “I hope to try out for running back and linebacker because of my build. Coach (Tim) Price was like ‘get over there with the quarterbacks.’ One player (Keky Duran) who is amazing, and a veteran on the team, played catch with me. We have camp this weekend and I still hope to try out for running back and linebacker.

If they need me at another position, I will adapt to that as well.”

The WNFC plays by college rules, with a few variations.

Teams provide the uniforms, but players provide their own cleats, mouthguard, and girdle with built-in pads.

The players do not get paid, but do get travel reimbursement if they meet the requirements.

“They have to be fully committed to the team” Wisecarver said of travel costs. “The players don’t get paid, yet. The goal of the league and team is that they will.”

The Ravens have a six-game schedule this season, with three home games — the Las Vegas Legends (April 27), the Seattle Majestics (May 4) and the San Diego Rebellion (May 11). All home games are at Milwaukie High School.

Leaving a legacy When Shippentower first started taking martial arts classes, it was for herself and her three boys. As a domestic violence and sexual assault survivor, she wanted to be able to protect herself and her family.

It has grown from there.

Shippentower is very involved with programs on the reservation, from the youth and the elderly, to the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls organization.

“Any of us should be able to do this,” she said.

“Any of these things that our Indigenous people are facing, we can do something with it. It’s the same with sports. It has been pretty cool having girls come up over the years and say, ‘I follow you on Instagram.’ ” She said it’s not only the youth, but the elders on the reservation are taking note of what she has been doing.

“They want to know that they are leaving something good behind,” Shippentower said of the elders. “That we can pick up where they left off.

Our elders are making sure this fight will go on. I have picked up advocating for our family members as well with the MMIWG.” For now, Shippentower is preparing for the Ravens camp, then it will be back to the grind next week, and maybe a buffalo hunt in the near future.

“Stay ready so you don’t have to get ready,” she said. “That has been my motto for a long time.”

FEBRUARY 2024 | CONFEDERATED UMATILLA JOURNAL

Weston-McEwen’s Anthony Nix goes up for the dunk against the Irrigon Knights, Jan. 12. The TigerScots scored the win that night 84 to 31.

JIM REEDER PHOTOGRAPHY | COURTESY

Bauer named Blue Devil wrestler of the week WALLA WALLA, Wash. – Elijah Bauer was recently recognized as “the embodiment of toughness, resilience, and family” within the Walla Walla High School wrestling program.

According to his coach Jake Butenhoff, Bauer demonstrated unwavering commitment to his team, prepared meticulously for practice every day and consistently went above and beyond by mentoring and guiding younger wrestlers during practice.

Butenhoff said Bauer’s skill and leadership were especially evident on the mat during a December dual against Hanford High School.

The Blue Devils were trailing by 12 points when Bauer’s brother Adam stepped onto the mat and nailed the pin with seconds remaining.

Inspired by his brother, Bauer dominated his opponent and swiftly tied the score – igniting a fire within the team.

The final victory was sealed by a teammate, but according to the coach, it was Bauer’s “relentless efforts on and off the mat that set the stage for our triumph. His positive

influence and unyielding determination make him an invaluable asset to our program,” Butenhoff said.

Bauer is the grandson of tribal member Malvin Jamison.

Elijah Bauer | COURTESY WALLA WALLA HIGH SCHOOL WRESTLING

Sports 15

16 Announcements

CONFEDERATED UMATILLA JOURNAL | FEBRUARY 2024

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In Memoriam Ronald T. Halfmoon

February 28, 1931 - January 19, 2024 Ronald T. Halfmoon was born on 02/28/1931 to his father Otis Alphonses (Nez Perce) and mother Mary Joshua (Cayuse) Halfmoon, in Umatilla, OR., and raised in Pendleton, OR., an enrolled member of the Confederated Tribes of Umatilla Indians (CTUIR) he was a Nez Perce/Cayuse Umatilla.

Ron’s early education began at the St. Josephs the Slickpoo Mission in Slickpoo, Idaho and attended the St. Andrew’s mission school from 1931-1945. He graduated high school from St. Joseph parochial school in 1949 and took summer work in local pea fields and Pendleton Experiment Station and the Umatilla Ordinance Depot as a trackman before joining the military right before his 20th birthday.

Upon joining the U.S. Army, he served in the Korean War from 1951-53 and earned a Purple Heart for his acts of valor and wounded in action. Ron lamented on his military experience where he spent a significant time in his life traversing the world. He was assigned to the George Company of the 47th Infantry Division aka (The Viking Division) with a weapons company equipped with heavy and light machine guns, 4.2 mortar and recoilless rifles. As a gunner for a light machine gun, he was recommended by his First Sergeant to leadership training and assigned orders that were “rigorous and challenging.” As he recalled his company missions and orders were to travel in the dark through jungle, maintain a certain direction to a predetermined check point, cross enemy fire, and training in chemical, biological, and radiological defense instruction to recognize poisonous gasses like phosgene and tear mustard. He believed this was where he learned some of the most challenging trainings and life off the reservation began. During his service he was Squad Leader and was elevated to Corporal, then Sergeant, then a Sergeant Frist Class by the time he was discharged. Some of his fondest memories were Panama City, the Aleutian Islands, Mount Fujiyama, Yokohama, and Tokyo, Japan, Seoul, Korea, and Biloxi, Mississippi to name a few.

After his military service, Ron attended Washington State University (WSU) where he graduated with a Bachelor of Science in General Studies and Biological Science in 1971. Ron believed it was after attending a six-week summer program in Boulder, CO., where he was placed at the University of Colorado campus and had a life changing experience that motivated him to dedicate his professional life to be of service to Indigenous people. During this time, he also served as a staff member of the American Indian Development, Inc. from 1969-1971 and attributes that time to his significant professional work experience which included thirty plus years of serving Indian Country and six years on the Board of Trustees for the CTUIR Governing Body. As a Board of Trustee Chairman, he assisted in the formulation of land use codes and resource management plans. He witnessed the release of the first Chinook salmon in Upper Umatilla River to begin the re-establishment of salmon runs for the tribal member harvests. As a tribal member he served on the Education Committee and on the Tribal Housing Authority. His experiences include managerial and administrative functions at CTUIR, Director of the Nez Perce Tribe Tribal Employment Rights Office (TERO), Burns Paiute Tribe, Affiliated Tribes of Northwest Indians, Advocates for Indian Education, Blue Mountain Community College, Gonzaga School of Education, and the Oregon State Department of Education.

It was during his tenure at WSU where he met his beloved wife, Loretta “Chet” Halfmoon, and they married April 2, 1977, at St. Andrews Catholic Church in Pendleton, OR. They were approaching 44 years together when she passed.

His fondest memories were meeting her after traveling the world. He adored her spirit and believed she recruited the most Native American students to the WSU campus at a time when education was still considered a relatively new pathway for Native Americans and attributed their love for the WSU Native American Student Association Kuyama as a part of their education advocacy. Both he and Chet shared their faith of the Catholic Church and enjoyed traveling to national Kateri conferences where they enjoyed sightseeing around the world together. They made their final home on the Nez Perce reservation in Lapwai, ID, but not after living in places like Pendleton, OR., Spokane, WA., Rufus, OR., and Pullman, WA. He is survived by his brother Harold (& Ethel) Halfmoon of Tuba City, AZ., and Lee Clure of Mission, OR., children Ethel Greene, Scherri Greene of Lapwai, Kerma (& Charles Petras) Greene of Garfield, WA.; numerous grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents Otis and Mary Joseph; beloved wife Loretta “Chet” Halfmoon, siblings; Richard, David, Alphonse, Robert, Donald, Francis, Elizabeth, Marilyn & Carolyn, Barbara and sons; Jeffery Brian Greene and Michael Dana Greene; daughters, Barbara Deane Greene and Mary Lee Greene.

Announcements 17

FEBRUARY 2024 | CONFEDERATED UMATILLA JOURNAL

In Memoriam Roberta A. Kipp

Robert Kennedy “Robby” Bill

Roberta A. Kipp, 80 died on Monday, January 15, 2024 at her home. Roberta was born on September 3, 1943 to Leander Kipp (father Charlie Kipp) mother (Annie Moody) & Wilma Loree Minthorn/Wannassay Kipp (father Jason Wannassay) mother (Anna Minthorn) in Pendleton, Oregon, where she also attended school. Among the cities where she lived include Celilo, Moiser & Pendleton, Oregon; Lewiston, Idaho; San Jose, California. As children, Roberta and her siblings fished at the historic Celilo Falls on the Columbia River with their dad. Roberta had a good work ethic wherever she worked.

Her employment ranged from electronics to social services that allowed her to work alongside the community. She attended council meetings at Nixyaawii Governance Center and was an active member of CTUIR, serving on several committees. Roberta embraced her culture’s traditions and loved to dance at pow wows and listen to the many drums. Her adventurous spirit led her to favorite spots like Indian casinos, rodeos, gatherings, Nixytaawii school sports. She was a big fan of the Golden State Warriors, Los Angeles Lakers, Seattle Seahwaks, Portland Trailblazers and Oregon Ducks. Roberta lied Motown and R&B music and promoted native songs and dancing to the youth that she met. She loved crocheting and among her creations were yarn belts that her grandmother taught her to make for pow wow dancers and giveaways. She also shared her grandmother’s dedication and service to the Tutuilla Presbyterian Church and began attending services early on as a child.

Roberta became a dedicated and respected advocate for many, including the homeless. Her efforts extended well beyond her social services background.

Roberta was devoted fan of the Pendleton Round Up. She could be heard saying “Let’er Buck” proudly all year long, especially for the PBR categories.

Robert (also known as Bobbi) completed her life’s journey and went home to the Creator. She looked forward to spending time with her son, family, friends and in the community where she was a force of life that will always remain with us. Roberta had a quick wit and a sharp sense of humor. There was never a moment she wasn’t pushing boundaries in some way.

There are not enough words to complete Roberta’s obituary. She will be missed more than words can fully express. What is written here is just a glimpse of her life. Those of us who knew Roberta have our own memories of her. Share them whenever you remember her smile or she said something that helped get you to the next hour/day/week stronger than before. Let us honor and celebrate the days and nights that she lived to the fullest between the time she entered this world and when she left us.

Robert Kennedy “Robby” Bill was born in Pendleton, Oregon on January 4, 1969 and passed away peacefully in his wife’s arms at St. Anthony Hospital in Pendleton on January 16, 2024.

He was born to Raphael Sebastian Bill and Sheila Elaine Pond and was the second to the youngest of four sons. He was an enrolled member of the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation and was raised here for most his life with the exception of a few years that the family lived in Portland when the boys were young. He played many sports growing up, including little league and Babe Ruth baseball, football and wrestling in Jr High and at PHS. He attended Lents Elementary in Portland, Sherwood and McKay schools in Pendleton, John Murray, Helen McCune and graduated from Pendleton High School in 1987. After high school he wrestled for Clackamas Community College for a time then moved back to Pendleton to be closer to family.

In 1990 while visiting his best friend who was going to college in Portland, he met the love of his life, Wendy Woods. They discovered they had lived in the same neighborhood in SE Portland when they were growing up but had not met until adulthood. They quickly became inseparable and married at the Mission Longhouse by Father Mike Fitzpatrick on May 18, 1991. He moved to Portland and worked for the City of Gresham while studying and wrestling at Portland State University. In 1995 Wendy gave birth to their son, Weyekin Ilp-Ilp Kennedy Bill and the following year they decided to move to Robby’s home on the reservation. Robby commuted to PSU during that time and obtained his B.A. in History in June of 1997.

Upon returning home, his first job was at URHA as Drug Elimination Program Manager, working with the late Art McConville. This is where his love for working with youth took off. In 1998 and 1999, he and Wendy had two daughters, Keannah Louise Bill and Skylar Elaine Bill. It was during the time Skylar was born in 1999 that they also gained another daughter Ariane Danee’ Wildbill (11 years old), due to the passing of his mother.

He spent several years working for the CTUIR Education Department as an Indian Ed Coordinator and then as Assistant Director alongside Lloyd Commander. He then decided a career change was needed so he worked as a Transporter for Yellowhawk. This was fulfilling at the time but his leaders thought his talent of working with youth not being utilized so he was asked to run an after-school wellness program for Yellowhawk youth clients. With the support of Dolores Jimerson and Lindsey Watchman, he brought the Iroquois game of Lacrosse to the youth of the Umatilla Indian Reservation.

He continued to work for Yellowhawk for many years as a Peer Mentor and taught NCS students a Health Class called Native STAND. In 2019 he began his role as Behavior Support Specialist at Nixyaawii Community School while continuing to assist Yellowhawk staff with teaching the class. He considered every single student he worked with one of “his kids”; helping them navigate life was truly his greatest accomplishment, aside from being the best father to Ariane, Weyekin, Keannah and Skylar, “Bampa” to his grandson Caden Robert Stewart and husband to Wendy.

Robby was preceded in death by his parents, younger brother Phillip Bill, grandparents Phillip and Eliza Bill and Walter and Inez Pond.

He is survived by his wife, children, grandson, brothers Cedric Wildbill and Emile Bill, best friend Gene Shippentower, numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, friends and of course his NCS students.

A dressing/viewing service was held at the Mission Longhouse on January 19th, followed by evening Washat service. Final seven songs were sung on the morning of January 20th followed by burial service at Agency Cemetery.

September 3, 1943 – January 15, 2024

Lewis E. Carter

February 19, 1943 – January 12, 2024 Lewis E. Carter, Jr., 80 died on Friday, January 12, 2024. He was born on February 19, 1943 in Pendleton, Oregon. A Dressing Ceremony was January 16 at Burns Mortuary followed by Rosary, Washat Service and Final Seven at Mission Longhouse. Burial followed at Agency Cemetery.

January 4, 1969 – January 16, 2024

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Thank You

Yellowhawk Tribal Health Center’s Behavioral Health, Yellowhawk Suicide Prevention program would like to express our deepest gratitude towards Nixyáawii Community School student Symon Picard, and Stanfield Athletic Director, Lorena Woods for their generous donation to the Yellowhawk Suicide Prevention program.

Your donation makes a big difference. Go Eagles!

CONFEDERATED UMATILLA JOURNAL | FEBRUARY 2024

FEBRUARY 2024 | CONFEDERATED UMATILLA JOURNAL

JOIN THE CAYUSE HOLDINGS TEAM! We have dozens of jobs open each month. Work remotely from your home, on the Reservation, across the US or overseas.

Tribal Hiring Preference and Equal Opportunity Employer.

Current Cayuse Holdings job opportunities include: Information Manager (VA), Customer Support Agent (Remote), Executive Assistant (OR), Deckhand (Guam), Service Desk Agent (Remote), Desktop Technician Ill (NM), Tier 1.0 Help Desk Specialist (OR), OT Incident Response Analyst (TX), IT Desktop Analyst (Remote), Social Media Assistant Coordinator (DC), Service Desk AgentNight Shift (Remote), Business Operations Director (HI).

See the complete list of job openings at www.cayuseholdings.com

Announcements 19

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CONFEDERATED UMATILLA JOURNAL | FEBRUARY 2024