CUJ_FEB_2025 by Confederated Umatilla Journal

BOT work session addresses federal funding freeze memo

CHRIS AADLAND

The

CUJ

MISSION – Tribal leaders assured tribal members and employees on Jan. 31 that there would be no major changes to tribal services after a Jan. 27 memo from President Donald Trump’s administration ordered a pause on federal payments for trillions of dollars.

Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation (CTUIR) leaders published a letter to tribal members on Jan.

BOT scraps GRAP tax paperwork requirement

CHRIS AADLAND

The CUJ

MISSION – Tribal members who failed to return required eligibility paperwork regarding the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation’s (CTUIR) updated casino revenue sharing payment plan will avoid having to pay tax penalties after tribal leaders learned that the federal government is likely to disregard that individual certification mandate.

At its Feb. 3 meeting, the Board of Trustees (BOT) unanimously adopted a resolution that rescinded the documentation requirement – instituted after the tribe changed its Gaming Revenue Allocation Plan (GRAP) in 2023 and reclassified the payments as general welfare distribution payments – for tribal members to show they are eligible to receive untaxed quarterly distributions.

28 stating they were aware of the situation and would inform them of any funding changes.

The memo, part of the White House’s desire to slash spending, was directed at federal grants, loans and other programmatic spending.

A federal judge temporarily blocked the freeze on Jan. 28 moments before it took effect, and the White House rescinded the memo two days after it was issued. However, the order caused panic about cuts to programs millions of Americans

rely on and confusion about what funding the directive applied to.

In response, CTUIR leaders took steps to begin developing a plan to push back against attempts to delay or cancel funding promised to the tribe.

“It is important to remember that many of the targeted funds are tied to federal obligations under the trust responsibilities of the federal government. Under the U.S. Constitution, treaties are considered the supreme law of the land, and the federal government has a fiduciary and

trust responsibility to the CTUIR under the Treaty of 1855,” tribal leaders stated in the letter.

Tribal officials and the Board of Trustees (BOT) met in a work session on Jan. 31 to discuss how funding cuts or delays like the one attempted by the White House could affect the tribe, where the tribe is seeing issues in receiving payments and developing a strategy for how to respond to future threats to the tribe’s funding.

FUNDING CONTINUED PAGE 10

Alcohol sales at ATP back on BOT agenda

The CUJ

MISSION – Tribal leaders are expected to soon decide whether to disregard or honor a General Council resolution calling on them to rescind a decision allowing alcohol sales at Arrowhead Travel Plaza and to schedule a referendum to gauge tribal member support of the issue.

In June 2023, the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation’s (CTUIR) Board of Trustees (BOT) voted to allow the sale of alcohol at Arrowhead, the tribally owned convenience store and truck stop on South Market Road near Interstate 84 that’s managed by Wildhorse Resort & Casino.

But lingering concerns about the propriety of the decision led to a special General Council meeting six months later. In January 2024, tribal members passed a motion calling on the BOT to not only rescind the resolution but also to hold a referendum during the next tribal election to allow members a say in the matter.

CTUIR tribal leaders have

Although cooler space inside Arrowhead Travel Plaza is marked for beer and wine, the shelves are stocked with a collection of non-alcoholic items while management waits for guidance from tribal leadership. LISA SNELL | THE CUJ

recently started discussing how to address the General Council motion – nearly a year later – by holding a two-hour work session on Jan. 8.

While the BOT didn’t decide whether to ignore the General Council motion or honor it, it did direct staff to draft a proposed resolution for consideration. If passed, a resolution could result in a referendum asking tribal members to vote on the issue.

“Their request did make it this

CHRIS AADLAND

CTUIR, Corps sign Mill Creek fish passage pact

TRAVIS SNELL CTUIR Communications

WALLA WALLA, Wash. – Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation (CTUIR) and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Corps) officials held a signing on Jan. 10 at the Corps’ Walla Walla District headquarters to honor a joint project to improve fish passage on Mill Creek.

The project will remove 7 miles of flood control structures the Corps installed in the creek from 1939 to 1943 to protect the City of Walla Walla. Those structures consisted of stream channelization with levees, 250 crosschannel small dams and a concrete channel through downtown Walla Walla.

“Over many years, flood control was the driving force of river management without consideration of the impacts to the natural environment. Public safety and human health are two key goals of the Corps of Engineers, but so is environmental protection and enhancement,” CTUIR Chairman Gary I. Burke said. “The CTUIR has worked with the Corps and other partners to ensure that environmental management and flood control can co-exist. We hope that this project, and others like it in the Walla Walla and Columbia basins will address the damage to fish habitat and passage we’ve seen over the last century understanding that this is a long-term process and continued restoration efforts will be needed in the Walla Walla Basin. It will continue to be important for projects such as this to be carried out to restore and protect the resources important to the exercise of CTUIR treaty rights.”

Burke added that it was fitting the ceremonial signing took place on Jan. 10, being that it was the five-year anniversary of the groundbreaking of the CTUIR’s South Fork Walla Walla Fish Hatchery.

Jerimiah Bonifer, CTUIR Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Fisheries Program manager, said the project is a significant step in improving fish passage in the Walla Walla Basin, which has suffered similar problems as the Umatilla Basin has such as overappropriation of water and degraded habitat.

“The Walla Walla Basin has excellent habitat in the headwaters, however agricultural,

industrial and residential development in the lower basin has severely degraded fish passage for salmon to the headwaters. This project is aimed at improving passage to give salmon populations the potential to flourish after decades of declines,” he said.

Because the Corps transferred the structures decades ago to Walla Walla County, the Corps requires approval from the county and specific sponsors of projects for federal funding, limiting its ability to fix problems the flood control construction created.

However, the CTUIR and Corps have worked to expand this authority. In 2023, the CTUIR proposed a pilot project under the Water Resources Development Act of 2020, requesting up to $10 million in federal funds to notch 63 grade control sills along eighttenths of a mile on Mill Creek. The Corps approved the plan on Aug. 29, 2024.

Mike Lambert, DNR Fisheries Habitat Program supervisor, said the notching entails constructing a river low-flow channel within each sill so juvenile and adult fish can move within the flood control channel.

“Mill Creek supports populations of… summer steelhead and bull trout, as well as reintroduced spring Chinook salmon and other culturally important First Foods fish

their behalf.”

Instead, according to the resolution, that responsibility for declaring eligibility to the federal government would rest with the tribe.

The BOT’s action impacts the last three quarterly payments of $1,000 from last year. It also comes after a substantial number of tribal members didn’t return the required paperwork to ensure their distributions were exempt from taxes.

“So, what we’re doing in this resolution, fairly simply, is having the board determine that the $3,000 paid in the last three quarters of 2024 meets the general welfare needs of its members and that they don’t need to certify compliance,” said tribal attorney Dan Hester. “The Board of Trustees is doing it on

In October 2023, the Board of Trustees ditched its previous Wildhorse Resort & Casino gaming per-capita payment formula in favor of a general welfare distribution model for its GRAP payments. The new plan made the quarterly payments tax-exempt so more of that money was available to tribal members to pay for living expenses.

Tribal leaders made the adjustment after changes to IRS rules allowed such payments to be made tax-free – as long as tribal members pledged that they were using the funds to pay for a wide range of common food, housing, utility, health care and transportation expenses.

But only about half of tribal members returned the simple, one-page form that was required to ensure they wouldn’t face any tax penalties when filing their

species,” Lambert said. “These fish transit the Mill Creek Flood Control Project on their upstream migration to spawning habitat in the headwaters of Mill Creek and on their downstream migration to the Pacific Ocean and mainstem Columbia River habitats.”

Although ceremonial, the signing showcases the CTUIR’s cooperative efforts with the Corps to safeguard resources guaranteed under the Treaty of 1855 while protecting Walla Walla’s people and property.

“Today’s signing is a milestone in our collaboration as we formalize our commitment to improving fish passage along Mill Creek,” said Walla Walla District Commander Lt. Col. Kathryn Werback. “This partnership emphasizes the best of what we can achieve when we come together with a shared purpose. Mill Creek is home to several ESA- (Endangered Species Act) listed species and other species that represent more than just biodiversity, which we hope will thrive for generations to come.”

The joint effort also gives hope that other flood control structures impacting fish at places such as Nursery Reach in the Walla Walla River near Milton-Freewater, Oregon, have an opportunity for funding and completion.

tax returns, officials said during a Jan. 17 work session.

That meant the tribe was preparing to send out 1099 tax forms that would result in about 50% of tribal members having to pay taxes on the $3,000 they had received in the previous three quarterly distributions.

However, in recent talks with federal tax officials, the CTUIR and other tribes learned that the IRS would likely allow tribal governments to issue declarations on behalf of their entire tribal memberships that the payments were being used for allowable expenses.

While tribal attorneys said there is a small risk the federal government could reinstitute the individual eligibility paperwork mandate, the BOT’s action ensures that individual tribal members won’t face any tax consequences or an IRS audit if that happens.

Those consequences or IRS attempts to recover lost tax revenue would fall on the CTUIR tribal government, tribal officials said.

“This resolution shifts the audit risk from [individual tribal members] to the tribe,” Hester said.

The last-minute BOT action means that tribal members who didn’t return the eligibility paperwork won’t face tax penalties when filing their tax returns for last year.

Tribal members will, however, still owe taxes on 2024’s first quarterly payment of $1,000 because the previous GRAP was still in effect then. Tribal members will be receiving a 1099 form from the tribe to use when filing their tax returns.

The BOT will also have to pass a similar resolution in 2025. But that one will cover all of this year’s quarterly payments.

Lt. Col. Kathryn Werback, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Corps) Walla Walla District commander, and Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation (CTUIR) Chairman Gary I. Burke sign an agreement for a pilot project between the Corps and CTUIR to improve fish passage on Mill Creek in Walla Walla, Washington. The pact was signed on Jan. 10 at the Walla Walla District headquarters. CTUIR | COURTESY

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 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 cuj@ctuir.org

Contributors:

Kathy Aney

Dallas Dick

Annie Fowler

Lee Gavin

Sammantha McCloud Wil Phinney

Travis Snell

Aaron Worden

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CTUIR names new Executive Director

MISSION – The Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation (CTUIR) officially has a new full-time executive director in tribal member J.D. Tovey.

The CTUIR Board of Trustees (Board) voted Tovey as executive director during its Feb. 3 meeting. Tovey had served as interim executive director since May 11 after the resignation of former Executive Director Donald Sampson on May 10.

“I want to thank the Board of Directors for having the confidence and faith in me and providing me this wonderful opportunity,” Tovey said. “Being named full-time executive director not only allows me to continue executing the Board’s governmental priorities to move the CTUIR forward, but I also get to continue giving back to the CTUIR and its people. Having been in this position on an interim basis I know the time and effort it takes. I was happy to step in when my predecessor resigned, and with the backing of the Board, I intend to keep things

moving in the right direction.”

As directed by the Board, the executive director has the authority and responsibility to implement the Board’s legislative actions and provide for the delivery of programs and services to tribal members and reservation residents on behalf of the Board. The executive director provides management oversight and supervision for all aspects of tribal government and administration.

“On behalf of the Board of Trustees, I would like to congratulate J.D. on being the CTUIR’s new executive director,”

Chairman Gary I. Burke said. “As interim executive director, he showed that not only can he handle the pressures that come with the job, but he thrived in the position, and we on the Board expect solid leadership from him in the future.”

Tovey, who holds a master’s degree in urban planning from the University of Washington, joined the CTUIR as the Tribal Planning Office’s director in March 2014. He served in that

J.D. Tovey

capacity until October 2023 when he was named deputy executive director.

Prior to working at the CTUIR, he was a senior urban designer from 2004 to 2008 in Orlando, Florida, and from 2009 to 2014 he was at the University of Washington as a National Science Foundation Integrative Graduate Education and Research Traineeship research fellow in the Interdisciplinary Program in Urban Design & Planning.

FROM THE CONFEDERATED TRIBES OF THE UMATILLA INDIAN RESERVATION

What to do if confronted by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents:

If ICE agents approach or question you in PUBLIC:

• Ask to verify their identity: Politely request to see the agents’ identification or badge to confirm their legitimacy.

• Do not resist: In the event ICE agents force entry, remain calm and avoid resistance to their actions.

• If you are detained or arrested, clearly state, “I am exercising my right to remain silent. I want to speak to my attorney.”

• Document the encounter: If possible, record the interaction through video or audio and make note of important details such as names, times, and any relevant circumstances.

• Report the encounter: Notify your local American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) affiliate or legal support organization about any raids or checkpoints for proper follow-up assistance.

If ICE agents show up to your HOME:

• Do not open the door: If ICE agents do not present a valid warrant, keep the door securely closed and respectively state, “I do not consent to your entry.”

• Ask for a warrant: Ask to see a warrant signed by a judge before allowing action to proceed.

Tribal Membership Identification Card Information:

• To further protect yourself, carry your CTUIR-issued tribal membership card.

• Tribal identification cards are issued through the CTUIR Enrollment Department.

• Cards are $5. To contact Enrollment, email enrollment@ctuir.org or call 541-429-7025, Monday through Friday, from 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., no appointment necessary.

CTUIR gets $1M for safe routes project on Mission Road

MISSION – The Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation (CTUIR) will receive more than $1 million from the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) to transform part of Mission Road into a more community-oriented corridor.

According to ODOT, the $1,014,912 will fund a Safe Routes to School project along the rural highway by better accommodating various travel modes as well as improving functionality, access and safety for residents and Nixyáawii Community School (NCS) students.

Alaina Mildenberger, Public Works office manager, said the project stretches from east of the four corners intersection at July Grounds Lane to the Mission Road/Highway 331 intersection. She added the 1-mile stretch will receive bike lane symbols and striping, two crosswalks across Mission Road with signage, a pedestrian beacon at Short Mile Road and two speed radar readers.

Mildenberger said the project’s scope aligns with priority projects in the CTUIR’s Transportation System Plan and Safe Routes to School Plan.

“This project will calm traffic and improve safety for all modes of traffic along an increasingly residential stretch of roadway,” she

more than $1 million

said. “These improvements will complement the last Safe Routes to School project that improved the Mission Road/Highway 331 intersection and constructed the walking path along Highway 331 connecting to the Governance Center campus area.”

That $1.5 million project, completed this past June, provides foot and bicycle access to the NCS, Cay-Uma-Wa Head Start, Yellowhawk Tribal Health Center and governance center. It covers approximately 1,700 linear feet and adds wheelchair accessible ramps and lighting.

As for the current project, Mildenberger said the next step would be to get the grant agreement processed with ODOT before bidding out the project for engineering design services.

“Upon the completion of an

accepted design, we will be able to use the design to solicit bids for the project construction. If we can get the project bid by this time next year, we will attempt completion in 2026. That is only if we don’t have unexpected delays,” she said.

Mildenberger said when construction begins Public Works expects traffic congestion but that the roadway is central to the community and should provide safety for those who walk and bike to their destinations.

The Mission Road project is one of 28 Safe Routes to School projects the Oregon Transportation Commission approved on Jan. 16 as part of an investment exceeding $31 million. The projects focus on making travel safer within a 2-mile radius of schools, prioritizing under-resourced communities

to ensure a safer journey for all students, according to ODOT.

ODOT’s Safe Routes to School program creates safe, convenient and fun opportunities for children to walk, bike and roll to and from school. This includes investments in pedestrian crossings, sidewalks, bike lanes and more, in addition to education and outreach programs that encourage students to walk and roll to school safely.

“It’s important to us to help students and their families get to school safely by foot or bike or mobility device,” said ODOT’s Public Transportation Division Administrator Suzanne Carlson. “We are excited to support cities and counties who want to make these improvements in their communities. They’re making an amazing difference around the state.”

The Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation (CTUIR) will receive

from the Oregon Department of Transportation to transform a mile stretch of Mission Road into a more community-oriented corridor by providing bike lane symbols and striping, crosswalks with signage, curb extensions and speed radar readers. CTUIR

NCFS gets ball rolling on food truck court

CHRIS AADLAND

The CUJ

MISSION – Food trucks are closer to becoming an option for passerby or as a lunch destination for tribal employees.

Nixyáawii Community Financial Services (NCFS), a Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation entity, recently received a fully furnished food truck that will be available for community members to rent to try out a food-based business idea.

NCFS previewed the new turquoise, 16-foot truck and food court project for community members and others interested in potentially parking their tasty business at the park during an open house on Jan. 15. About 20 people showed up to hear about the vision for the project, timelines, and process for renting a space in the food court or the new food truck.

The projects are meant to help diversify the tribal economy – which project managers say is primarily driven by tribal government and its enterprises – by encouraging more private sector development and supporting community members who want to own a small business.

“We are predominately tribal enterprisebased, which is fine,” said NCFS business services manager and food truck project manager Jacob Wallis. “But what we found, even just during Covid, was that we need to diversify our economy. That would make us stronger and individual community members that much more resilient.”

NCFS says it expects to break ground on the project this spring and has received all the necessary permits. NCFS received its truck at the end of December.

The food court will be located just to the south of NCFS off South Market Road, which project managers say will hopefully allow it to capture hungry motorists travelling on Interstate 84, as well as tribal employees and tribal members from just down the road in Mission.

It would also give business owners an opportunity to showcase tribal and other local food that visitors might otherwise not be exposed to, Wallis said.

The food court will have spaces for six trucks situated in a semi-circle. It will also include parking spaces and utility and water hookups for the food truck operators. Separate parallel parking spaces could be utilized as drive-up spots or places where delivery drivers could pull up to quickly grab orders.

A second phase of work will include a covered gathering area and “community

commerce center” that would allow tribal member creatives to sell their goods, such as art and jewelry, to support retail business growth. Completed landscaping and concrete walkways will also come during the second phase, Wallis said.

For someone interested, but not yet fully committed, to a food truck business, the NCFS truck will be a great option to avoid going into debt while they decide whether their idea will work, said Dani Wilgus, the food truck park manager.

The truck is fully equipped and community members can arrange to rent the truck, likely on a short-term basis, to test out their business idea, she said.

NCFS has already handled the permitting, so a fledgling business owner would just need to submit their menu and finalize lease details before firing up the truck’s fryer and grill.

“The idea of this trailer is to be a launch pad for an emerging business,” Wilgus said. “It would give that business owner the time to prove their concept and see if it works.”

Since the food truck park will serve as a business accelerator, NCFS also said they plan to help the businesses out with marketing and advertising, as well as supporting the trucks in other ways.

“Even if you don’t lease the NCFS trailer, we will help support your business,” Wilgus said. “We succeed as a group, not just individual businesses.”

Wallis and Wilgus said they planned to begin formally accepting applications for the park and rental truck in February.

For more information, go to nixyaawii-cdfi. org/foodtruckpark/ncfs-food-truck-parkgroup/discussion.

Interested community members check out the new food truck purchased by Nixyáawii Community Financial Services during the Jan. 15 open house. CHRIS AADLAND | THE CUJ

CTUIR Weather Report:January 2025

Weather information summarizes data taken at the Pendleton Weather Station Lat 45 40 N and Lon -118 51 W from January 1 to January 27. Temperature is reported in degrees Fahrenheit and time in Pacific Standard Time.

The average daily temperature was 34.6 degrees, with a high of 52 degrees on January 16. With a low of 17 degrees on January 20th. With a departure from normal of -0.1 degrees. 20 days of below 32 degrees.

Total precipitation to date in January was 1.15, with the greatest 24 hour average of 0.58 on January 3. Eight days out of the month had precipitation levels greater than .01 inches, with Three days greater than 0.10 inches and the with one days greater than 0.50”. There was a departure of -0.14" from average for the month of January.

The average wind speed was 5.1 mph, with a sustained max speed of 29.0 mph from the West on January 10. A peak speed of 37 mph occurred from the West on January 10. The dominant wind direction was from the West.

There were 0 Thunderstorms, two days out of 29 in which some rain fell, five Haze events/days, and sixteen Fog/Mist. Air Quality Index Values Fluctuated from Green/Healthy to Yellow/ Moderate on the EPA’s website AirNow.gov.

According to the National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration(NOAA), the Umatilla Indian Reservation is currently not experiencing drought but can expect below average temperatures over the next three months and above average precipitation in 3-4 weeks.

–Submitted by Caleb Minthorn, CTUIR Air Quality Technician

LETTERS

Dear Tribal Members,

With the change in presidential administration, we are seeing a flurry of executive orders shaking up Washington, D.C., and the nation. On Monday, Jan. 27, the administration issued a memo halting trillions of dollars in federal grants and loans to eliminate spending on programs. This memo is vague in its call to temporarily pause federal financial assistance – other than Medicare, Social Security, and similar programs – and it is causing confusion for nonprofits, state agencies, city governments, and tribal governments.

The Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation (CTUIR) Board of Trustees, Executive Management Team, Office of Legal Counsel and Federal Lobbyist Team are staying on top of the situation, and we will inform the CTUIR membership of any funding changes that could affect services.

It is important to remember that many of the targeted funds are tied to federal obligations under the trust responsibilities of the federal government. Under the U.S. Constitution, treaties are considered the supreme law of the land, and the federal government has a fiduciary and trust responsibility to the CTUIR under the Treaty of 1855.

The well-being and peace of mind of our CTUIR Tribal members are incredibly important. Thank you for your continued patience and trust as we navigate what potential changes mean for CTUIR. We truly appreciate your understanding and will keep you updated with important developments.

Sincerely, CTUIR Board of Trustees Office of the Executive Director

Greetings,

We write with a deep sense of urgency, and passion, about the need for sponsorship support to ensure the success of the Nápt Tananáwit, Láxs Níšayčt or Two Cultures, One Community (TCOC) Pow Wow which is set for February 28 – March 2, 2025, at the Pendleton Convention Center.

Our community is built on the relationships and history we share, and it is in times like these—when we gather to celebrate, learn, and grow—that we truly witness the power of unity.

However, to make these volunteer organized events successful, we must have the backing of businesses, corporations, organizations, and individuals who understand that giving back is the very foundation of a thriving community. During the inaugural TCOC Powwow in 2024, the event brought together more than 12,000 in total attendance - dancers from across the U.S. and Canada, including the renowned host drum, Northern Cree. Sponsorships are not just financial contributions—they are an opportunity to invest in the well-being of this entire community. Committing to a sponsorship is an invitation to show that you care—about the people who support you, the partnerships you have locally and in the region.

Now is the time to make a difference, not just by supporting Nápt Tananáwit, Láxs Níšayčt, or TCOC, but by fostering a deeper connection to this community we all serve. We call on local leaders, business owners, and corporations to come together in this

important endeavor and invest in each other’s success.

Sincerely, Pat Beard & Fred Hill, Co-Chairs Two Cultures, One Community Powwow Nápt Tananáwit, Láxs Níšayčt twoculturesonecommunitypowwow@gmail.com

Thank You

On behalf of the Family Engagement Program (FEP), we extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who made the Čimti Anwíčt Páyuumt New Year Celebration such a wonderful success!

First and foremost, a special thank you to the Wildrose Singers for joining us and drumming during Culture Night, making it an unforgettable evening!

A big shout-out to our amazing cooks and servers: Kateara Chavez, Sierra Quaempts, Jay Stanley, J’Shon Thompson, Dearcie Abraham, and Deb Van Pelt, as well as our incredible frybread cooks: Michael Van Pelt, Vivian Stevens, and Dorothy Cyr—your hard work and delicious contributions made the event even more special.

We are also deeply grateful to the BioWaste Technologies LLC, including Dearcie Abraham and Colleen Sanders, for providing composting bins and volunteering to wash dishes, ensuring our event stayed sustainable.

Thank you to the Living Water for All Nations Church for your volunteers’ help with cleanup and frybread preparation—your generosity and spirit are deeply appreciated.

Our sincere thanks to CRITFC’s Jill-Marie Gavin for capturing the beautiful moments of the evening through photography.

We are also grateful to Fred Hill for serving as the MC, and to Judy Farrow for her role as Whipwoman, ensuring the evening ran smoothly.

A heartfelt thank-you to Vivian DeMary, a long-time volunteer, for always lending a hand with cleanup, and to Isaiah Welch for offering the opening and closing prayers. Layla Welch, thank you for stepping in to help assist FEP staff as well.

We were thrilled to see so many community members come together to celebrate this special occasion. Your participation and support made this Culture Night not only memorable but also a powerful reminder of the strength and unity within our community.

Once again, thank you to everyone who contributed to the Čimti Anwíčt Páyuumt New Year Celebration. Your efforts have truly enriched our community, and we look forward to gathering again for future culture nights to celebrate our shared family and cultural values.

Qéici’yew’yew’ / Kwałašámaš Family Engagement Program (FEP) Staff

Letters are published on a space available basis, in order of receipt.

"Thank You" letters are considered announcements and must be paid to guarantee placement. Unpaid submissions will only run if space is available. Information found to be inaccurate/libelous will not be published.

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

Email letters to CUJ@ctuir.org

Tribal organizations urge Trump administration to respect tribal sovereignty, uphold treaty obligations amid flurry of Executive Orders

DINA HORWEDEL

American Indian College Fund

WASHINGTON – A coalition of Tribal organizations, representing Tribal Nations and their citizens and communities, is calling on the Administration to ensure that recent executive actions do not undermine the unique sovereign political status of Tribal Nations as sovereign nations with which the federal government has trust and treaty obligations, or disrupt federal funding that flows from those relationships for essential Tribal programs.

Following the issuance of multiple executive orders and Office of Management and Budget (OMB) directives, concerns arose over freezes on federal funding that Tribal Nations and Tribal organizations, including urban Indian organizations, rely on to provide critical healthcare, economic development, education, and social services to Tribal communities. While OMB has since rescinded the initial memorandum, questions remain about how federal agencies will interpret and implement the Administration’s executive orders and policies moving forward.

Tribal Nations are not special interest groups—they are sovereign governments with a unique legal and political relationship with the United States and with their own Tribal communities. The trust and treaty obligations of the federal government are political and debt-based in nature. Tribal Nations’ sovereignty and the federal government’s delivery on its trust and treaty obligations must not become collateral damage in broader policy shifts.

The coalition emphasizes that federal funding for Tribal programs is not discretionary, but rather a legal mandate owed under the United States’ trust and treaty obligations and the many statutes that carry them out. The organizations urge the Administration to explicitly recognize Tribal sovereignty and trust and treaty obligations in the implementation of all executive orders and priorities and to ensure that federal agencies provide clear guidance that protects Tribal programs from unnecessary disruption.

As the Administration advances its priorities, it must do so in a way that respects Tribal sovereignty, strengthens self-determination, and delivers on trust and treaty obligations. We stand ready to work with federal partners to ensure that all policies and decisions uphold the government-to-government relationship between the U.S. and Tribal Nations.

The coalition will continue to advocate for Tribal sovereignty and fulfillment of the trust and treaty obligations and ensure that the voices of Indian Country are heard in Washington. Scan the QR with your smart phone for a full copy of the sign-on letter

CTUIR employees accepted into management training module

MISSION – Three Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indians (CTUIR) employees have been accepted into the tribe’s 2025 Discover Management Training Module (DMTM).

Candice Patrick, Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) probate specialist with the Department of Economic and Community Development (DECD), was named a program manager trainee, while Richard Orna, accounts payable clerk with the Finance Department, enters as supervisory trainee. David Wolf Jr. BOLSTER lead in the Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS), was also named a supervisory trainee.

Patrick worked 10 years at Wildhorse Resort & Casino before spending the past 12 years in the Department of Economic and Community Development –seven years as a realty assistant in leasing and most recently as a specialist in probates.

She is enrolled at Blue Mountain Community College (BMCC) and working towards obtaining an associate of art Oregon transfer degree with a goal of transferring to Eastern Oregon University (EOU) for the bachelor’s degree in business administration program for business management. In 2017, she obtained her Indian Land Professional certification by Indian Country Consultants –Indian Enterprises.

Patrick also holds a seat on the CTUIR Education and Training Committee, is a Nixyáawii Community School (NCS) Executive Board member, NCS Board Club member and served as the NCS Executive Board chair and mentor.

“I am eager to deepen my knowledge and skills through the Pamáwaluukt Program,” she said. “I intend to actively engage with the opportunities it offers by participating fully, posing insightful questions, and, when appropriate, sharing my expertise as I rotate through various departments. I wish to express my sincere gratitude for this outstanding opportunity. I regard it as a privilege I take seriously and am dedicated to maximizing its potential.”

Orna is also attending BMCC to obtain his Oregon transfer degree in business and plans to attend EOE to obtain his bachelor’s degree. He has maintained a 4.0 GPA, earning him a spot on the President List each term. He has a career goal of being upper management in Finance.

“Being part of the Discover Program would help me develop the skills necessary to being an effective leader and supervisor/ director one day,” he said. “One of the best benefits is how you gain firsthand experience about managerial tasks and processes while also gaining real world time that can be credited towards supervisor experience.”

Wolf has worked for the CTUIR for nearly 30 years, with the majority serving the Department of Natural Resources Fisheries Program, the BIA Branch of Forestry and most recently with DCFS. He is an Army veteran and active member of the CTUIR community.

A McEwen High School graduate, he has attended BMCC, EOU and Portland Community College. With recent progress with the Workforce Development Program, he said it would be a great opportunity to join Discover so he could continue to grow as a tribal member employee within the department.

“When the Workforce Department comes to fruition, and BOLSTER program starts within the new department, it’s my hope that the BOLSTER program can grow,” Wolf said. “I would like to be a supervisor in this area and it’s through the Pamáwaluukt Empower Program that I see the opportunity to enhance my supervisory career.”

Candice Patrick

Richard Orna

David Wolf

FUNDING

CTUIR officials and leaders also wanted to reassure tribal members and employees, saying the tribe is in a healthy financial position and could avoid having to lay off employees or cut services to members for more than a year if the federal government began withholding reimbursement payments or other financial obligations to the CTUIR.

“We figure we could go 18 months if we had to,” said Finance Director and Interim Deputy Executive Director Paul Rabb. “We’re solid financially as a tribe.”

Tribal officials said the tribe would need a plan for ensuring its federal funding isn’t cut and for responding to actions that could threaten those funds.

A solid plan would be essential as the tribe navigates what Executive Director J.D. Tovey said was an expected “roller coaster” ride of uncertainty during the next four years.

“We want to be sure that we’re mindful and keeping the boat stable as we move through the next four years,” he said.

Treasurer Raymond Huesties said he was confident the CTUIR would prevail in any funding disputes because the tribe’s treaty rights and the U.S. government’s trust responsibility were on the CTUIR’s side.

“I know we can do what we need to do to protect our people,” Huesties said.

Tribal entity impacts

The attempted pause in federal funding led to confusion across the CTUIR, including at some tribal entities.

At Yellowhawk Tribal Health Center, officials said they were swamped with patients worried about the clinic being forced to close and employees asking about layoffs after news about the memo emerged.

Aaron Hines, Yellowhawk Tribal Health Clinic CEO, said the clinic continued to operate normally and has plans in place in case federal funding is interrupted in the future. Hines added that Yellowhawk would inform patients and the community if federal funding delays or other funding changes impacted the delivery of health care to patients.

“Fortunately, in the event of a pause in funding, we have contingency plans to maintain our operations,” Yellowhawk stated in a Jan. 31 Facebook post. “For now, all programs, functions, services and activities at Yellowhawk will continue as normal.”

Leaders at Cayuse Holdings – the tribal enterprise that generates nearly all its revenue through federal services contracts – also had to address how a flurry of executive actions from the White

House could impact it.

Unlike the CTUIR and Yellowhawk, Cayuse had its operations affected though a separate executive order restricting foreign aid through the U.S. State Department.

Cayuse Holdings CEO Randall Willis said that order included a pause on reimbursement payments, so it applied to a contract related to counterterrorism work between Cayuse and the State Department that generated about $225,000 a month for the tribal business.

Willis said Cayuse had been ordered to stop work on the contract for at least 90 days but added that there were also procedures for Cayuse to recoup some of that lost revenue from the federal government.

Being proactive

The Trump administration’s chaotic first couple weeks also resulted in the tribe experiencing challenges related to financial drawdowns and reporting.

Officials said it was unclear if, or when, delayed drawdown payments would be approved for several environmental-related programs or projects, such as for Hanford environmental restoration and waste management planning and the tribe’s hazmat transportation through the Public Safety Department.

BOT Member-at-Large Corinne Sams said there has also been a “strain” from Bonneville Power Administration leaders in paying out federal dollars meant for tribal conservation projects and initiatives.

Clause Law, the CTUIR's federal lobbying firm, offered suggestions the tribe could take to safeguard funding, including providing members of Congress a list of projects and programs that could be impacted or potential future concerns. The firm also suggested ensuring the tribe is meeting all reporting requirements, providing necessary documentation and adhering to funding agreement requirements.

With the funding pause memo rescinded and concerns about imminent impacts to services alleviated, Tovey said one purpose of the Jan. 31 work session was to outline a communications and advocacy strategy plan for the tribe to use to educate elected leaders and federal officials about the government’s funding obligations to the CTUIR.

He also said it’s important to contemplate whether the tribe should respond to every provocation given the expected frequency the federal government under Trump and a Republicancontrolled Congress may attempt actions the tribe opposes.

The BOT didn’t adopt a plan at the meeting, but tribal officials said they would take feedback

from the work session to begin developing proposals for leaders to consider.

Sams said it was too early for the BOT to provide a directive since everyone was still gathering information. But she said she was curious to see what staff would eventually present, saying it was important to be proactive and have a well-organized plan so the tribe can maintain morale and isn’t caught off guard if the federal government threatens tribal funding again.

“I can only imagine how overwhelmed you all feel. I know

how we all feel from this side of the table, and we’re just gathering information and making phone calls,” she said, acknowledging tribal staff. “We’ve been through the gauntlet in the last several years … the flood, the pandemic, and now this.”

Scan the QR with your smart phone for more information on tribal responses to the latest Executive Orders

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Kotek nominates tribal member for power and conservation seat

SALEM – Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek has nominated tribal member Chuck Sams to serve on an important regional energy and conservation policy-making body after his time as National Park Service Director concludes.

Kotek announced Sams’ nomination to fill one of the eight seats on the Northwest Power and Conservation Council on Jan. 14 alongside dozens of others for roles on government advisory or governing bodies like the Public Utility Commission and state Board of Forestry.

In a same day Instagram post, Sams – who, in 2021, became the first Indigenous person to lead the NPS – said he was honored to have led that federal agency.

Sams was responsible for managing 20,000 employees and 85 million acres of land across more than 420 sites as the 19th NPS director.

“I appreciate the confidence and trust President Biden and Secretary Haaland have placed in me to be the steward of our parks, historic sites, monuments and memorials,” he said. “I am pleased to announce, upon the completion of my service on January 20, 2025, I will be in service of the Great State of Oregon.”

If confirmed by the Oregon Senate, Sams would rejoin a council that he served on before taking over as the NPS leader.

As a member of the Northwest Power and Conservation Council, Sams will help develop and oversee the regional power plan for Idaho, Montana, Oregon and Washington.

The council’s goal, according to its website, is to balance affordable and reliable energy access while protecting fish and wildlife in the Columbia River

Basin through its fish and wildlife program.

The council was created in 1980 after the U.S. Congress passed the Northwest Power Act.

In addition to being an enrolled member of the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation, Sams has worked for the CTUIR as interim executive director and communications director, and served in other roles involving public lands policy, conservation and tribal affairs over his career. He is also a U.S. Navy veteran.

“When I make and review appointments, I name those who carry out their task with the same accountability, transparency, and good governance that I consider as paramount in everything we do for Oregonians,” Kotek said. “I want to thank each nominee and every individual who has been involved in the decision-making process on a variety of issues that our state faces today.”

The governor makes appointments to over 265 boards and commissions representing a broad range of areas and issues. The Senate Committee on Rules will consider the nominations in early February.

Bates named ICWA Warrior

SALEM – Trinity Bates, Family Preservation Program manager, was announced as the December 2024 ICWA (Indian Child Welfare Act) Warrior by the Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) Office of Tribal Affairs.

She was lauded for going “above and beyond” to support tribal families and for her devotion to vulnerable populations and families in crisis.

According to the announcement, Bates fights for children to be heard as well as to be reunited with their families and she has shown excellence and creativity in her leadership which has led to positive changes and outcomes for tribal children.

“She has always been a fierce advocate for the protection of ICWA,” said Julie Taylor, director of the Department of Children and Family Services for the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation. “Trinity is strong and steadfast in ensuring tribal children are protected and advocated for. She is invaluable.”

An ICWA Warrior is a dedicated child welfare staff member, tribal partner, or community ally who passionately supports ICWA/ ORIWA and embodies its spirit through their hard work and commitment. These individuals are recognized for their steadfast advocacy and the impact they make in preserving the rights and welfare of Native children and families.

Schimmel named to 40 under 40

LAS VEGAS – Tribal member Jude Schimmel was recently recognized as one of “40 Under 40” award winners by the National Center for American Indian Enterprise Development (NCAIED).

The 40 Under 40 is a prestigious award which recognizes 40 Native American, Alaska Native, Native Hawaiian and First Nations young leaders who have demonstrated leadership, imitative, and dedication and made significant contributions in business and/or in their community.

“Receiving this award is truly an honor. I know, see and hear about so many people across Indian country who are doing such incredible and impactful work. To be included in that sector makes me feel both emotional and just purely grateful. I love my Indian people and I love seeing us grow and expand and lifting one

another up. This award is special and I hope to continue doing good work for each and every generation,” Schimmel said.

The young leaders will be celebrated at the 2025 Reservation Economic Summit, March 10-13 in Las Vegas.

Jude Schimmel

Trinity Bates

CHRIS AADLAND

The CUJ

Chuck Sams

General Council Chairman Alan Crawford, left, and CTUIR Chairman Gary I. Burke stop for a photo during the National Congress of American Indians 81st Annual convention in October 2024, in Las Vegas, Nevada.

is the oldest, largest, and most representative American Indian and Alaska Native organization serving the broad interests of tribal governments and communities.

UTPD arrests Walla Walla man after pursuit through reservation neighborhood

MISSION – Umatilla Tribal Police Department (UTPD) officials arrested a man on Saturday, Jan. 4 after he led them on a vehicular pursuit through a residential area on the Umatilla Indian Reservation (UIR).

Catrell

According to the UTPD, at approximately 9:30 a.m., officers initiated a traffic stop on a 1998 motorhome driven by Dylan Lance Cantrell, 22, of Walla Walla, for an expired registration at Shortmile Road and

ALCOHOL

far,” General Council Chairman Alan Crawford said of last year’s motion. “Now, here we are on this date, finally having a work session. And I’m happy for that, so that we can move on, however we’re going to move on.”

Tribal officials said they plan to have the proposed referendum resolution for the BOT to discuss, and potentially vote on, as soon as February or March.

Other details like the language of the ballot question or the legal power the result of the vote would have, weren’t finalized during the January meeting.

Tribal leaders and officials also discussed scheduling the potential referendum for earlier in the year than the November tribal election.

In the meantime, Arrowhead and Wildhorse officials say they’ll continue to hold off on selling alcohol, as they have since learning about controversy surrounding the previous Board of Trustees' decision to allow it at the travel plaza, until tribal leaders decide how to handle the General Council motion.

“I know alcohol sales on the reservation, not just at Wildhorse or Coyote Business Park, is very sensitive,” said Wildhorse CEO Gary George. “So … we decided that it best not be to introduce alcohol sales until we get a clear answer from the Board of Trustees or the tribe.”

Reservation alcohol sales

Alcohol sales, limited to Wildhorse, came to the reservation in 2006 after the Board of Trustees adopted the CTUIR’s liquor code the year before.

That decision came after tribal members narrowly voted in a 2005 referendum to sell alcohol at the casino.

The availability of alcohol to purchase was meant to help turn Wildhorse into a destination and increase profits for the tribe, George said.

A 2006 amendment to the tribe’s tax code also imposed a 5% tax on Wildhorse alcohol sales that would be deposited into a fund

Mission Road.

A UTPD report states Cantrell, a non-Indian, failed to produce a driver’s license and gave a false name to police. When instructed to exit the motorhome so officers could continue the investigation, Cantrell refused and fled in the vehicle, the report states.

Officers pursued the vehicle through a UIR residential area in which Cantrell drove onto a walking trail and through fencing destroying private property, the report states. It also states Cantrell then stopped and fled on foot in the Birch Loop and Dogwood Loop area.

According to the UTPD, officers drew their

for alcohol abuse treatment and prevention.

Additional amendments passed by BOT resolutions in 2010, 2015 and 2019 further expanded the CTUIR’s liquor code and opened the possibility of expanding sales to Coyote Business Park to attract new businesses to the park and all tribal enterprises.

Currently, none of the businesses located in Coyote Business Park or other tribal enterprises have BOT permission to sell alcohol.

In the summer of 2022, the BOT, tribal staff and Wildhorse officials reviewed “opportunities for alcohol sales” at Arrowhead, Mission Market and Tamástslikt Cultural Institute (TCI), according to the 2023 resolution approving alcohol sales at Arrowhead.

That led to a survey in the fall of that year, in which 53% of the 350 tribal members who responded said they favored alcohol sales at Arrowhead.

A majority of respondents, however, rejected the idea of further expanding sales to TCI or Mission Market.

Following the survey results, the BOT passed a June 2023 resolution authorizing alcohol sales at Arrowhead in a 5-2 vote. A companion resolution imposed a 5% tax on sales and directed proceeds to a fund for alcohol and drug abuse treatment and prevention.

Sales at Arrowhead were limited to beer, wine, hard cider and boozy seltzers, according to the resolution.

Alcohol sales at Arrowhead were expected to generate about $938,000 in sales, with a profit of about $281,000 in 2024 – had they started after the BOT authorized the sales in 2023 – tribal officials said during the January work session.

“We think it’ll help our bottom line,” George said. “Another income stream for the tribe.”

Current BOT Member-at-Large Corinne Sams and former Board Member Boots Pond were the two who voted against allowing alcohol sales at Arrowhead in 2023, citing a lack of consultation with tribal committees and commissions, tribal police and Yellowhawk Tribal Health Center and potential increased negative

weapons, which is standard procedure, but no shots were fired. Cantrell was located hiding near a residence and taken into custody without further incident, the report states.

Cantrell was arrested and lodged in the Umatilla County Jail on a felony parole board warrant and charges stemming from the traffic stop and vehicle pursuit of attempt to elude felony, attempt to elude misdemeanor, false information to police, reckless driving, recklessly endangering another, failure to perform the duties of a driver with property damage, criminal mischief and unlawful possession of methamphetamine.

impacts from increased tribal member access to alcohol.

At the January work session, Sams said she still believes the tribe should gather input from stakeholders, such as the Law & Order Committee, Yellowhawk and tribal police.

Alcohol abuse remains one of the tribe’s most pressing challenges, she added.

“There’s a big movement in Indian Country to get sober, to live a good life,” Sams said during the January work session. “I just think that the potential impacts really outweigh the benefits.”

General Council involvement

After the BOT voted in 2023 to allow alcohol sales at Arrowhead, some tribal members raised concerns about the survey being inaccessible, or that making such an important decision based off a survey was unfair.

The opposition to the BOT’s decision culminated in last year’s special General Council meeting.

Tribal officials and attorneys defended the method in January, saying the survey response rate – about 11% of the total CTUIR population and perhaps as high as 18% of the General Council membership – was a significantly high enough response rate for tribal leaders to use as a guide.

In comparison, officials said last year’s special General Council meeting involved far fewer tribal members. The Arrowhead motion at that meeting passed 34-17.

Multiple BOT members said it was a mistake for the issue to have been brought to the General Council in the first place, since it has no legislative authority – a power which rests with the Board of Trustees.

“The Constitution gives this board the authority to make these decisions,” said Vice Chair Aaron Ashley, who is in favor of alcohol sales at Arrowhead and doesn’t believe the matter should’ve been brought to the General Council. “Now we’re trying to kick the can down the road longer.”

Involving the General Council in the process by asking for its views through a survey before the BOT’s 2023 vote opened a “can of worms” by implying that the General Council has more

policy-making power than it does, Sams said.

That, coupled with the General Council’s special meeting push to undo the Arrowhead alcohol sales resolution, has forced the BOT to confront politically thorny questions.

“We knew that there might be repercussions to that, which we’re finding out today,” Sams, who suggested that she supported honoring the General Council motion for a referendum, said.

Still, since tribal leaders originally asked for the General Council’s input during the BOT’s decision-making process, its referendum request from the special General Council meeting should be fulfilled, multiple BOT members agreed.

“It’s the tribal members’ right to have a special General Council and this is what they brought forward,” said BOT Secretary Roberta Wilson. “I would like to see our General Council members to be honored.”

If tribal leaders ultimately decide to hold a referendum during the next tribal elections, the BOT would also have to determine whether the outcome would be advisory – meaning that BOT members could choose to ignore the result and give Arrowhead the OK to begin selling alcohol – or bind leaders to act based on the outcome. If the decision to allow alcohol sales at Arrowhead stands, the truck stop is prepared to begin sales immediately after learning that the controversy has been resolved, Arrowhead and Wildhorse officials said at the January work session.

Until then, the cooler space reserved for alcohol sales at Arrowhead – heralded by a beer and wine sign overhead – will continue to be filled with nonalcoholic beverages like the collection of milk and iced coffee options that currently occupy the shelves.

“We’re all set. We have everything legally approved. All the permits are in place. If you were to tell us to do it today, we could probably [hit] the on switch tomorrow,” George said. “That’s how ready we are based on previous direction from the board back in June of 2023.”

Dylan

American bald eagles are having a moment, ecologically and culturally

MIKE CATALINI

Associated Press

WEST ORANGE, N.J. (AP)

— Along the long road from American icon to endangered species and back again, the bald eagle — the national bird of the United States, often seen against a clear blue sky — is having a moment.

The eagles find themselves in an environmental updraft of sorts since the early 2000s, when the federal government took the thriving birds off its endangered species list with more states following suit. Culturally, too, the animals are soaring.

In December, Joe Biden signed legislation making the raptor the country's national bird (thought that was already the case? More in a bit). New Jersey became the latest state to delist the bald eagle as endangered in January, citing a remarkable comeback for the creatures associated with strength and independence — and that occupied just a single nest in the state decades ago. And to the chagrin or elation of football fans, the Philadelphia Eagles will be vying for a championship in the Super Bowl this weekend.

How did the storied birds find their way back? As with so many tales, it's complex.

Their well-being was intertwined with an insecticide

The story — there was a single nesting pair in New Jersey in the 1980s and roughly 300 now, for instance — centers on the banning of DDT, a chemical insecticide with environmental side effects that included thinshelled eagle eggs. That touched off a cratering in the number of eagles across the country, and officials prohibited the pesticide in 1972.

To rebuild the birds' numbers in their historic range across the country, conservationists imported birds from places where their populations were stable, including from Canada. Early on, they also removed eggs from nesting birds' nests, replacing them with artificial ones for the eagles to "incubate" while the real eggs were safely hatched outside the nest before being returned, as eaglets for their parents to raise according to Kathy Clark, the head of New Jersey's Endangered and Nongame Species Program.

"They're one of the few conservation success stories of animals that almost went extinct on our continent. And so I think now it's really important to make sure people know that story and learn from it," said Maia Edwards,

the science director at the American Bald Eagle Foundation in Alaska.

Clark, whose work with the birds spans decades and includes the period when their numbers were so small they lived only in a remote part of the state, said the eagles have taught officials a number of lessons. One is that they're "fairly adaptable" and now live across densely populated (with people) New Jersey — from suburban Bergen County near New York to the wetlands along the shore in the south.

She recalled the story of one fledgling eagle in a suburban town — New York Giants territory, as it were, sorry, Eagles fans — that found itself on a backyard woodpile and walking around the street. Volunteer observers worried over the bird's well-being, given the realities of suburban living. But a year later, observers spotted the eagle, identified by a band. It had apparently made it.

"Those birds that, you know, have that tolerance to live like in such a densely human structured environment is something I have a hard time understanding," she said. "They're Jersey birds. You got to have attitude, right?"

The birds do face dangers as they expand into suburbia, though. Jilian Fazio, director of the Essex County Turtle Back Zoo in suburban northern New Jersey, said the zoo rescues a number of birds hit by cars. One bird, a male named Freedom, perched atop a branch in his enclosure at the zoo recently and called out loudly. He was found dangling by a rope, left with an injury that renders him unreleasable, Fazio said.

There are threats, as well. Habitat preservation and clean, open water, since the eagles feed heavily on fish, is a worry, but there's also the current outbreak of avian influenza or bird flu. Clark says officials are going to maintain surveillance amid the outbreak.

A resurgence in popularity, too

Beyond the birds coming off endangered lists, they made headlines recently for finally getting their due as the county's national bird, an oversight left undone in law because the bald eagle was already on the national seal and many thought it already had that status, said Sen. Amy Klobuchar of Minnesota, who sponsored legislation that Biden signed last month.

She and colleagues worked with Native American and veterans groups to get buy-in

for the legislation, she said, and it passed the typically divisive House and Senate last year with no dissent. The birds are revered in a number of Native American cultures as symbols of strength, particularly in the Pacific Northwest, according to Paul Apodaca, a retired academic who specializes in folklore and mythology.

The eagles' perch as symbols of the country contributes to their conservation, with experts considering them an "umbrella species," whose need for large open spaces and waterways helps preserve lesser known wildlife.

"Americans are always going to have that sort of personal relationship with bald eagles," Clark said.

New Jersey Sen. Andy Kim, a native of Philadelphia Eagles territory, took his two young sons to the NFC championship game last week, a memory he said they won't forget. "Let's never forget that Bald Eagle was officially named America's national bird at the same time the Eagles are headed back to the Super Bowl,"

he said in a text message. Experiencing seeing a bird in the wild or even as you're driving along a business-lined highway can leave an impression. Dan Day, a birder who's spotted bald eagles some 50 times in recent years both on nature walks and just driving around suburban New Jersey, remembered never having seen the birds as a kid growing up in Cleveland. Now a New Jersey resident and Philadelphia Eagles fan, he regularly goes out in his green "Birds" cap and binoculars.

"Just the mere thrill of seeing one — a lot of people just have never, ever looked at one," he said. "It really elevates your day to see a bald eagle."

Enjoy watching them, experts say, but give them space, too. Because rescuing animals threatened with extinction is expensive, uncertain work. Said Clark, the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection official: "I don't think I ever will lose that perspective of, of being on the brink there, not knowing if if you're going to be able to save the species."

In December, President Joe Biden signed legislation making the bald eagle the country's national bird. In January, New Jersey became the latest state to delist the raptor as endangered. CUJ STOCK PHOTO

Flatlining salmon and steelhead numbers in Columbia Basin both success, cautionary tale

A December report from the Northwest Power and Conservation Council shows a rolling 10-year average return of 2.3 million adult salmon and steelhead to the Columbia River Basin annually, higher than the 1990s but only halfway to the Council’s goal of 5 million and far lower than historic returns.

NIKA BARTOO-SMITH

Underscore + ICT

Prior to the influx of colonial settlers in the mid-19th century and the eventual development of large dams blocking fish passageway along the river, the Columbia River Basin was teeming with anadromous salmon and steelhead returning from the ocean annually.

Jeremy FiveCrows, communications director for the Columbia River Inter-Tribal Fish Commission (CRITFC), said 15 to 20 million adult salmon and steelhead returned to the basin historically, which “represented an annual infusion of so much nutrient wealth that fed this entire ecosystem.”

By the 1990s, that number had dipped to a little over 1 million. It has since grown to more than 2 million, still a far cry from its heyday and not even halfway to a conservation goal of 5 million.

“We all live in an impoverished ecosystem compared to what it was historically,” FiveCrows, Niimiipuu, citizen of the Nez Perce Tribe, said.

Fish conservation has been a priority for many scientists and organizations since the latter half of the 20th century — something that Indigenous people along the river have known is important since time immemorial.

Since the 1980 Northwest Power Act, the Northwest Power and Conservation Council (NWPCC) has been monitoring adult salmon and steelhead returns to the Columbia River Basin.

“Although the NWPCC focuses on the entire Columbia River Basin, the losses we are trying to make up for are due just to hydropower development,” said Kate Self, a program scientist in the Council’s Fish and Wildlife Program.

The 10-year rolling average from 2014-2023

stands at 2.3 million fish, which is about the same average of the previous 10 years, according to a Dec. 10 report from the NWPCC. It’s still well below the Council’s target, which is 5 million annual returns of adult salmon and steelhead to the Columbia River Basin.

The construction of the hydrosystem throughout the Columbia River Basin cut off almost 50% of all available habitat across the region until some fish passages were built, according to Patty O’Toole, fish and wildlife director for the Council. Even with fish passages, restoration faces significant challenges.

“It takes a lot of restoration to keep up with development and population growth,” O’Toole said.

“The status quo is no longer acceptable, especially when you have stocks on the brink of extinction,” said Donella Miller, citizen of Yakama Nation, fisheries science manager at CRITFC. “In the face of climate change, things in the environment are going to become more challenging so we need to move beyond that and take further action.”

Collective conservation efforts

While the rolling average from the last 10 years is still about 50% lower than the numbers that NWPCC would like to see, it does point to success from conservation efforts along the river.

That many returning fish is an improvement from the 1990s when the average dipped to its lowest since the beginning of the program at 1.3 million, according to the report.

“Increased salmon and steelhead abundance in the Columbia River Basin — especially above Bonneville Dam — over the past 40 years marks important progress,” said NWPCC Council Member Louie Pitt, who represents Oregon and is a citizen of the Confederated Tribes of the Warm Springs, according to a press release. “These fish still face severe stresses from climate change, pressures from human population growth in the Basin, and other environmental impacts. Some stocks are struggling right now. We cannot ease up in our collective efforts to help these fish populations grow stronger and larger everywhere we can — including in blocked areas of our Basin such as above

Chief Joseph and Grand Coulee Dams.” Salmon and steelhead abundance above the dams, particularly the Bonneville Dam, is crucial for subsistence fishing for Native nations along the river, sport fishing and natural reproduction. It is also essential for the biodiversity and health of the Columbia River Basin.

In the first half of the 20th century, while efforts to protect fish populations did occur, they mostly focused on the lower half of the river to protect commercial fishing and ocean harvest, according to the Council’s report. This meant the heaviest losses of salmon and steelhead occurred above the Bonneville Dam.

Native nations throughout the Columbia River Basin have been instrumental in leading restoration efforts, which span across reintroduction programs, hatcheries managed by Native nations and more.

“It goes beyond just our harvest,” Miller said about the importance of salmon and steelhead abundance in the river and above the dams. “But also what the tribes view as our responsibility to maintain and ensure that these species persist for our future generations.”

Beyond climate change, many obstacles stand in the way of fish abundance, including physical ones like dams blocking fish passage and invasive species. Other obstacles stem from “red tape,” according to Miller, with a green light for fish passage projects or structure removal impeding fish passage that could take years.

“People cannot dismiss the amount of work that’s gone into it, because it’s kind of a miracle that the numbers are even flatlined,” FiveCrows said. “The amount of fish that are being produced at the tribal hatcheries, it’s just phenomenal.”

While salmon and steelhead restoration is essential to the basin’s health, and a priority at CRITFC and NWPCC, other crucial species have been more overlooked in conservation. Miller mentioned lamprey and freshwater mussels as two key species. There cannot solely be a focus on salmon, but instead a holistic approach to ensure long-term success and ecosystem health, she said.

Scientists at the NWPCC agree.

“It’s integral when you are talking about conservation and restoration to include all of the native species,” Self said. “A functioning ecosystem requires all of the players to be healthy, not just the ones you can sell.”

Native nations throughout the Columbia River Basin have been leading this work both technically and scientifically, according to O’Toole. She said that Bonneville contracts with 19 Native nations and Native organizations, with 45 to 50% of all available restoration funding going to those nations and organizations.

Restoration projects are taking place across the basin. Efforts led by Native nations include: freshwater mussel restoration in the Umatilla River led by the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation; work conducted by the Confederated Colville Tribe to protect wild kokanee populations; the Yakama Nation’s work to restore and reintroduce sturgeon to areas in the midColumbia River; and many more.

“Within our culture, everything has its purpose and its place,” Miller said. “So we can’t just look at it as salmon restoration — we’re working to heal Mother Earth.”

Haaland reflects on tough choices during historic tenure

SUSAN MONTOYA BRYAN Associated Press

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) –It started to get real when the artwork was taken down from her office walls. The collection –all creations of Indigenous artists – had been handpicked by U.S. Interior Secretary Deb Haaland over the last four years as she guided one of the nation's most expansive federal agencies.

Then came the tears as people came and went, sharing hugs while Haaland tried to wrap up her last day at the office.

She set out four years ago on a historic journey as the first Native American to serve as a cabinet secretary. She came in with a series of seemingly simple but ambitious goals: address the climate and biodiversity crisis, make the outdoors accessible to more people, lift the veil on a difficult chapter in American history, and usher in a new era for Indian Country.

From energy development on public lands and securing water resources amid ongoing drought to making good on the nation's promises to Native Americans, Haaland vowed to take a balanced approach – and to listen. She told The Associated Press in an interview that she feels she lived up to that vow.

Haaland believes President Joe Biden nominated her for the job because he wanted a cabinet that reflected America. As a member of Laguna Pueblo in New Mexico, Haaland brought a different perspective – one never before infused into decision-making at that level.

"I really felt like I relied on the way I was raised, on my cultural wellbeing, the traditional aspects of who I am. I'm a pueblo woman first," she said, "and I see things through that lens."

Drill? Not so fast, baby

Even during her time in Congress, Haaland wasn't shy about voicing opposition to oil and gas and supporting the Green New Deal. She was grilled during congressional hearings about her "radical views," with Republicans suggesting the administration's distaste for drilling would cost the country jobs and compromise national security.

In his first days in office, Biden shut down oil and gas lease sales from the nation's vast public lands and waters, citing worries about climate change. Haaland's agency was charged with doing a comprehensive review. Court wrangling ensued, resulting in an indefinite delay in planned oil and gas lease sales on public lands in a half-dozen states in the West.

Despite campaign promises to end new drilling on federal lands, leasing resumed and production reached record levels during the

Biden administration, with the U.S. now producing more than ever before.

Haaland acknowledged production was high during her tenure, but she noted that it came with nearly four dozen new renewable energy projects on federal lands and the conservation of more than 1 million square miles.

Some federal land was taken off the board through administrative withdrawals, like that in northwestern New Mexico where some tribes advocated for greater protections for areas beyond the boundaries of Chaco Culture National Historical Park.

"As it turns out, you don't have to lease millions and millions of acres," Haaland said. "We really worked at zeroing in on where these leases should happen so that we can ensure that other land is open to conservation."

For the love of bears and beyond Haaland co-sponsored legislation while in Congress to increase protections for grizzly bears and reintroduce them on tribal lands. It was a fight that continued while she was secretary. Just this month, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announced continued protections for grizzly bears in the Rocky Mountains despite opposition from Republican-led states.

Haaland sees threats to biodiversity and climate change as twin challenges, as rising temperatures, drought and wildfires put more pressure on endangered and threatened species and their homes.

As part of an effort to protect more species and provide more wildlife viewing opportunities, Haaland created six national wildlife refuges and expanded the boundaries of five more during her tenure. Species that made enough progress to have

protections removed included the Apache trout — Arizona's state fish — and the snail darter.

For Haaland, her advocacy is deeply rooted, stemming from ancestors who served as the first stewards of the land.

"I stand on the shoulders of so many people that have spoken out for the Earth and its animals, who stood up for Indian Country, for women, for civil rights," she said.

New era for Indian Country

From the start, Haaland wanted to usher in what she called a new era for Indian Country. That meant honoring and elevating tribal sovereignty. Not with words but with actions, she said.

Native American leaders have long considered the consultation process a check-the-box exercise for the federal government. So Haaland established a tribal advisory committee within her department, while Biden issued mandates for prioritizing and standardizing consultation across federal agencies.

The administration reached 400 co-stewardship agreements with tribes, ensuring their role in land management. And new national monuments were created, setting aside ancestral lands across the western U.S., from the edge of the Grand Canyon to sandstone landscapes in Utah and palm-tree dotted deserts in California.

Haaland also pointed to record investments of nearly $45 billion for tribal infrastructure projects and social programs. This came after decades of underfunding, neglect and oppression, she said.

"You can't right every single wrong in just four years. These things are going to have to be ongoing," Haaland said, encouraging tribal leaders to stay vocal and maintain a seat at the table.

Haaland is keenly aware that Indian Country isn't a monolith,

as each of the 574 federally recognized tribes has its own culture, beliefs and needs. There were times when tribal leaders spoke out, saying Haaland was ignoring concerns about the potential effects of mining or renewable energy projects on sacred places.

A painful chapter of history

Possibly one of her greatest accomplishments was shining a light on a relatively untold part of America's history – a dark period in which Native American children were ripped away from their families and carted off to boarding schools for reprogramming.

Haaland has talked about her own grandparents being victims of the campaign to erase language, culture and identity.

She launched a first-of-its kind initiative to uncover the scope of the damage done by the boarding schools. The heartbreaking work involved combing through millions of documents and holding listening sessions where community members struggling with generational trauma shared their experiences.

Haaland's department turned out major reports that identified the schools that had government support and uncovered the fates of hundreds of children who never returned home. The final volume listed policy recommendations to aid in healing.

Those recommendations were turned over to the White House, with Haaland saying she had no idea the outcome would be so profound. She didn't call the president and make a special request. Instead, Biden's team called immediately and said the president wanted to issue an apology.

Haaland joined Biden at the Gila River Indian Community in Arizona for the announcement. She reflected on that moment during a farewell address last week before a packed auditorium of employees, tribal leaders and others. She said she could feel the power of those who persevered through unthinkable odds so she and others could stand there that day.

Haaland chalks up her own perseverance to community, saying things can be accomplished only when people work together. She pointed to her pueblo ancestors centuries ago gathering millions of pounds of stone, mixing mortar and hauling water to construct one of the great houses at the Chaco park.

"I thought about the weight of their legacy," she said, "a weight that, while heavy, has motivated me to lead this department, which just a few generations ago tried to erase Indigenous peoples and our ways of life."

U.S. Interior Secretary Deb Haaland shares a photo with Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation Board of Trustees Member-at-Large Corinne Sams during the December Tribal Nations Summit in Washington. COURTESY

Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation Board of Trustees

DECEMBER 9, 2024

Ascertainment of Quorum. BOT Present: Gary Burke, BOT Chairman; Raymond Huesties, Treasurer; Roberta Wilson, Secretary; Toby Patrick, Member; Steve Hart, BOT Member and Alan Crawford General Council Chairman. Aaron Ashley, ViceChair on personal leave; Lisa Ganuelas, Member on travel; Corinne Sams, Member on travel; Quorum present.

1949, as amended;

Nixyáawii Governance Center 46411 Timíne Way Pendleton, OR 97801 541-276-3165 bot@ctuir.org l ctuir.org

Agenda Review. MOTION: Raymond Huesties moves to approve agenda. Alan Crawford seconds. Discussion. Question. Motion carries 5-0-0.

New Business: Resolution 24092: Topic: 2025 BIA Tribal Energy Development Capacity (TEDC) Grant. RESOLVED, that the Board of Trustees certifies the following:

1. The Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation (Confederated Tribes) are listed on the Department of the Interior, Bureau of Indian Affairs, Indian Entities Recognized by and Eligible to Receive Services from the United States Bureau of Indian Affairs, 89 Fed. Reg. 944 (Jan. 8, 2024);

2. The Board of Trustees is the governing body of the Confederated Tribes by the authority of Article VI, Section 1 of the Constitution and Bylaws of the Confederated Tribes, adopted on November 4, 1949, and approved on December 7,

3. The Board of Trustees certifies that there is a need to develop Tribal management and the technical capacity to maximize the economic impact of energy resource development;

4. The Board of Trustees certifies that there is a need to establish Tribal policies and ordinances related to energy resource infrastructure and development; development of organizational, legal and business infrastructures to support energy business formation; and regulatory infrastructure to regulate and manage Tribal energy resources; and

5. The Confederated Tribes are committed to fully complying with grant award requirements and have identified the Tribal Staff lead point of contact for communications with the Bureau of Indian Affairs regarding the TEDC grant; AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Board of Trustees approves the use of Washington Climate Commitment Act funding (WA Ecology Agreement No. AQTCCA2325-CoTUIR-00028) in an amount not to exceed $25,000 for a contractor to assist the Tribal Staff working as Energy Strategy Team to prepare the Bureau of Indian Affairs Tribal Energy Development Capacity Grant (TEDC Grant) application; AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Board of Trustees authorizes the Office of the Executive Director to sign the TEDC Grant application and any

other documents necessary to submit the grant application, and to sign a Professional Services Agreement for a contractor to assist Tribal Staff working as the Energy Strategy Team to prepare the TEDC Grant application; AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, if awarded funding, the Board of Trustees authorizes the Office of the Executive Director to sign the TEDC Grant Agreement and any other documents necessary to carry out the intent of this Resolution; AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, under the supervision of the Office of the Executive Director the Tribal Administrative Official for the TEDC Grant is the Director of the Department of Finance; AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, under the supervision of the Office of the Executive Director the Point of Contact / Tribal Program Official for the TEDC Grant is the Department of the Economic and Community Development Tribal Staff member of the Energy Strategy Team; AND BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED, the Office of the Executive Director is to report periodically to the Board of Trustees on the status of the TEDC Grant to ensure that all the provisions of the grant award requirements are fulfilled and completed within the performance period; MOTION: Alan Crawford moves to adopt Resolution 24-092. Raymond Huesties seconds. Discussion. Question. Motion carries 5-0-0.

The Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation is comprised of the Cayuse, Umatilla, and Walla Walla Tribes, formed under the Treaty of 1855 at the Walla Walla Valley, 12 Stat. 945. In 1949, the Tribes adopted a constitutional form of government to protect, preserve and enhance the reserved treaty rights guaranteed under federal law.

and Rabbi Trust Interest Rates. RESOLVED, that the interest rate to be credited to all funds held for Minors in the Custodial, the Sisseton Wahpeton and the General Welfare Saving and Spending Trust Accounts shall be changed from 3% to 4% per annum effective January 1, 2025; AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Finance Director shall review annually the interest rate being credited to the Minor Trust accounts and shall further review the investment earnings on such funds; AND BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED, based upon this review, the Finance Director shall make a recommendation to the Board of Trustees for any adjustment to the interest rate applied to the Minors Trust Accounts, which adjustment shall be consistent with the above referenced requirements of the Gaming Revenue Allocation Plan and are subject to approval by the Board of Trustees; MOTION: Toby Patrick moves to adopt Resolution 24-093. Steven Hart seconds. Discussion. Question. Motion carries 5-0-0.

Resolution 24-093: Custodial

Resolution No. 25-094: Amends BIA Self-Governance Funding Agreement to include Section 105(l) Lease for BIA Compact Related Facilities. RESOLVED, that the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation hereby request that the Secretary enter into Section 105(l) lease or leases for Tribal facilities used to carry out administration and delivery of services under the

CTUIR Board of Trustees Minutes

Gary I. Burke Chairman Aaron Ashley Vice Chairman

Raymond Huesties Treasurer

Roberta J. Wilson Secretary Alan Crawford General Council Chairman

Corinne Sams Member at Large

Lisa Ganuelas Member at Large

Toby Patrick Member at Large

Steven Hart Member at Large

Compact of Self-Governance between the Tribe and the Secretary of Interior as set for the Funding Agreement attached thereto; AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Funding Agreement be amended to include a provision for Section 105(l) leases for Nixyáawii Governance Center, Nixyáawii Education Facility, the Public Safety Facility, the Fire Station and other facilities utilized for the administration and delivery of services under the Compact of Self-Governance; AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that each of the facilities to be leased are owned by the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation on lands held in trust by the United States for the benefit of the Tribes, AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Executive Director or Designee is hereby authorized to apply for and negotiate Section 105(l) lease(s) to begin no later than January 1, 2025, as discussed above and to negotiate amendment to the Funding Agreement and annual renewal for lease(s); AND BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED, that the Executive Director is hereby authorized

to take all actions necessary to implement this resolution.

MOTION: Toby Patrick moves to adopt Resolution 25-094. Steven Hart seconds. Discussion. Question. Motion carries 5-0-0.

Other Board Terms Expiring: Michelle Thompson pos#6, Election Commission (expires 12/31/24), Delise Guerrero pos#8 (expires 12/31/24), Lucas Eastwood, Land Acquisition Committee (expires 12/15/2024), Patty Hall, Law & Order Committee (expires 12/3/24), Shanna Treloar, Law & Order Committee (expired 10/03/2024)

Resignation(s): None. Removal(s): None.

MOTION: Raymond Huesties moves to advertise the following vacancies:

1 position for CTUIR Culture Coalition, 3-year term. No Stipends 2 positions for Election Commission, 4-year staggered terms,

1 position for Land Acquisition Committee, to fill a 2-year term, Meets 1st and 3rd Tuesdays at 9:00AM.

General Council Draft Agenda

2 positions for Law & Order Committee, to fill a 2-year term, meets 1st and 3rd Tuesdays at 2:00PM.

1 position for Wildhorse Foundation, to fill a 2-year staggered term, meets quarterly. Roberta Wilson seconds. Discussion. Question. Motion carries 5-0-0.

Will advertise the following positions on the public notice:

1. Position for CTUIR Culture Coalition, to fill a three-year term, meets as needed

2. Positions for Election Commission. To fill four-year staggered terms Positions 6 and 8 (appointed by BOT), meets 2nd and 4th Wednesdays at 4, Meeting times subject to change, meeting times from 2-4 PM (TBD).

3. Position for Land Acquisition Committee, to fill a 2-year term, meets 1st and 3rd Tuesdays at 9:00AM.

4. Positions for Law & Order Committee, to fill a 2-year term, meets 1st and 3rd Tuesdays at 2:00 PM.

5. Position for Wildhorse Foundation, to fill a 2-year

staggered term, meets quarterly.

BOT Travel or External Meeting Reports: Raymond Huesties, 10/24 at Elgin to attend Northern Blue “All Land” annual field tour and burn. MOTION: Steven Hart moves to approve travel report(s). Roberta Wilson seconds. Discussion. Question. Motion carries 4 for – 0 against –1 abstaining (Raymond Huesties).

BOT Leave and Travel or Outside Meeting Requests:

Aaron Ashley, personal leave for 3 hours from 1 to 4 pm on 10/26. Corinne Sams, birthday leave on 10/30 and personal leave on 10/31 and 11/1.

Gary Burke, travel to Grand Ronde to attend Spirit Mt. event by invitation only.

Lisa Ganuelas, travel to Seattle, WA on 11/3-5 to attend U of W NAAB meeting. Lisa Ganuelas, personal leave 11/7 from 8 to 9 am.

Steven Hart polled personal leave for 1/5 hours on 10/23. MOTION: Raymond Huesties moves to approve leave requests. Steven Hart seconds. Discussion. Question. Motion carries 5-0-0.

DECEMBER

16, 2024

Ascertainment of Quorum. BOT Present: Gary Burke, BOT Chairman; Aaron Ashley, ViceChair; Raymond Huesties, Treasurer; Roberta Wilson, Secretary; Toby Patrick, Member; Corinne Sams, Member; Alan Crawford General Council Chairman. Lisa Ganuelas, Member on travel; Steven Hart, BOT Member on travel. Quorum present.

Agenda Review. MOTION: Corinne Sams moves to approve agenda Action Items only. Toby Patrick seconds. Discussion. Question. Motion carries 6-0-0

New Business: Proposed Resolutions: 24-095: Resolution 24-095: Determination of Distribution - Tribal Funds. RESOLVED, that the Board of Trustees authorizes the Office of Legal Counsel to file, if determined to be appropriate after factual investigation, interpleader actions in Umatilla Tribal Court, on behalf of the Confederated Tribes, acting by and through the Tribal Enrollment Office, to determine appropriate distribution for the

funds currently held in Tribal accounts for deceased Tribal members where it is unclear as to appropriate heirship distribution, and to provide representation during those matters; AND BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED, that the Board of Trustees authorizes the Office of Legal Counsel to file, if determined to be appropriate after factual investigation, interpleader actions in Umatilla Tribal Court, on behalf of the Confederated Tribes, acting by and through the Tribal Enrollment Office, to determine appropriate distribution for deceased Tribal member accounts without a living designated beneficiary, and provide representation during those matters, up and until the Board of Trustees adopts a tribal probate code that addresses distribution of assets, including personal property that is not held in trust by the Department of the Interior; MOTION: Corinne Sams moves to adopt Resolution 24095. Raymond Huesties seconds. Discussion. Question. Motion carries 6-0-0.

BOT Leave and Travel or Outside Meeting Requests: Four requests to attend ATNI, Jan. 26-30 from Gary Burke,

Aaron Ashley, Raymond Huesties and Toby Patrick.

Corinne Sams, polled travel for 12/13-15 to Portland to attend OR Tribal Consultation Task Force Retreat.

Gary Burke, travel 5/21-23 to Canyonville to attend U of O NAAB meeting and tour.

Steven Hart, polled personal leave for 12/5.

Toby Patrick, polled personal leave on 12/11 from 3-4 pm. MOTION: Corinne Sams moves to approve leave requests with corrections. Raymond Huesties seconds. Discussion. Question. Motion carries 6-0-0.

DECEMBER 23, 2024

Ascertainment of Quorum. BOT Present: Aaron Ashley, Vice-Chair; Raymond Huesties, Treasurer; Toby Patrick, Member; Steven Hart, BOT Member and, Alan Crawford General Council Chairman. Gary Burke, BOT Chairman; Roberta Wilson, BOT Secretary; Corinne Sams, BOT Member and Lisa Ganuelas, BOT Member all on personal leave. Quorum present.

Agenda Review. MOTION:

Raymond Huesties moves to approve agenda. Steve Hart seconds. Discussion. Question. Motion carries 4-0-0

Other Board Action Items: Aaron Hines, Yellowhawk Tribal Health Center Chief Executive Officer, presented a letter from IHS Requesting Supporting Documentation for the CTUIR FY 2018 CSC Claims. MOTION: Raymond Huesties moves to approve the IHS letter with corrections. Alan Crawford seconds. Discussion. Question. Motion carries 4-0-0.

BOT Travel or External Meeting Reports: Deferred to next meeting.

BOT Leave and Travel or Outside Meeting Requests: Corinne Sams: 12/16, personal leave all day; 12/17 (2 hrs.), personal leave; 12/19 (5 hrs.), personal leave; 12/31 (all day), personal leave; 1/2-3/24 personal leave all day both days.

Steven Hart, 12/16 all day. MOTION: Raymond Huesties moves to approve leave requests. Steven Hart seconds. Discussion. Question. Motion carries 4-0-0.

DECEMBER 30, 2024

Ascertainment of Quorum.

BOT Present: Gary Burke, BOT Chairman; Aaron Ashley, ViceChair; Raymond Huesties, Treasurer, Toby Patrick, Member; Lisa Ganuelas, Member; Corinne Sams, Member; and Alan Crawford General Council Chairman. Roberta Wilson, BOT Secretary on personal leave. Quorum present.

Agenda Review: Corinne Sams, BOT Member suggested adding the ARPA resolution to today's agenda for approval. MOTION: Raymond Huesties moves to approve the agenda as amended. Aaron Ashley seconds. Discussion. Question. Motion carries 6-0-0.

New Business: Resolution 24096: ARPA Project Funding List. RESOLVED, that the Board of Trustees does hereby approve the ARPA Project Funding List attached as Exhibit 1C to this Resolution, which includes the unappropriation [sic] ARPA funds identified as Excess ARPA Funds in Exhibit 1C; BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Board of Trustees hereby

appropriates the Excess ARPA Funds for 2024 Tribal government expenses in the amounts identified in Exhibit IC; BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED, that the Board of Trustees authorizes its Treasurer, Interim Executive Director and Finance Director to take such further action as may be necessary to carry out the purposes of this Resolution; MOTION: Corinne Sams moves to adopt Resolution 24-096. Raymond Huesties seconds. Discussion. Question. Motion carries 5 for- 0 against - 1 abstaining (Lisa Ganuelas).

BOT Travel or External Meeting Reports: Cor attend a virtual meeting on 12/16/24, 12/14-15/24 attended virtually the Oregon Tribal Consultation Task Force Retreat. 12/7-10/24 travel to Washington DC to attend the Tribal Nations Summit. MOTION: Raymond Huesties moves to approve travel reports). Alan Crawford seconds. Discussion. Question. Motion carries. 6-0-0.

BOT Leave and Travel or Outside Meeting Requests: None.

Food waste reduction project nearly ready to collect leftovers, scraps

CHRIS AADLAND

The CUJ

MISSION – A tribal waste reduction initiative is closer to taking uneaten food and converting it into clean-burning cooking fuel and fertilizer.

In mid-January, the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation’s (CTUIR) First Foods Policy Program placed an approximately 10-foot-by-10foot shed just to the north of the Mission Longhouse. That shed houses an anerobic digester – also known as a biodigester – that will break down leftover food from feasts and scraps brought by community members who choose to participate in the project. The digester will turn the collected food waste into a gas that can be used to generate electricity, heat and fuel.

This initiative is part of a larger First Foods Policy Program project, Nixyáawii, Awkú Čáwpam Ák´aatta!, or Nixyáawii, Don’t Throw it Away!, aimed at reducing how much food waste – which is a source of climate-warming greenhouse gasses – the community sends to landfills and collecting data about the volume and type of food waste created by the community.

“The project in and of itself is to disrupt some of the habits that cause climate crises, food waste being one of them,” said CTUIR climate adaptation planner and one of the project’s leaders, Colleen Sanders. “Food waste is really one of those really low-hanging fruit ones. If we can get our community to make this change, we can make bigger change.”

Since the cold winter temperatures slow down the natural breakdown process, and the shed doesn’t yet have any heat, project leaders said they expect to start placing food waste into the digester sometime in March.

The biodigester will be able to take 10 gallons of organic, biodegradable food waste a day, which will create enough gas for four hours of cook time.

“An easy rule is, it’s like our stomachs,” Sanders said. “So,

New CTUIR Youth Leadership Councils take oaths of office

TRAVIS SNELL

CTUIR Communications

MISSION – The newest members of the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation’s (CTUIR) Senior and Junior Youth Leadership Councils took their oaths of office on Jan. 3 at the Wildhorse Resort & Casino (WRC) Rivers Event Center.

After being postponed twice out of respect to losses in the community, the swearing-in ceremony was held in conjunction with the Elders Christmas Luncheon. Despite some councilors not in attendance

because of school functions, CTUIR Chief Judge William Johnson administered oaths to those who were present. Overall, there are 21 senior councilors and 23 junior councilors.

The Senior Youth Leadership Council (grades 9-12) consists of Chair Weptas Brockie; Vice Chair Miracle Edmiston; Treasurer Brooklyn Jones; Cultural Ambassador Abraham Shippentower; Secretary Eagle Edmiston; Publicist Ayanna Star; Pendleton High School Members-at-Large Dymond Say and Mateni Hutchings; Nixyáawii Community School Members-

at-Large Layla Wallahee and Malaeloa Malumaleumu; AthenaWeston Members-at-Large Addison Carey and Sydney Carey; Members-at-Large Demetri Brockie Jr., Devon Hall Spencer, June Johnson, Garian McDonald, Emma Star-Nez and Hiyuum Nowland; and Members Meadow Morris, Kymani Van Pelt and Johnny Goodrider.

“I ran for Youth Council and this position so that I could improve my public speaking skills and be more involved with my Native community and peers. It also

Little Head returns as TCOC emcee

WIL PHINNEY

PENDLETON – Veteran powwow announcer Ruben Little Head will return to the microphone for the Two Cultures One Community Powwow planned for Feb. 28, March 1 and 2.

Little Head, a Cheyenne who lives in Lawrence, Kansas, will be joined on the microphone by Mike Sanchez, a member of the Ktunaxa (Kootenai) and Lummi Nations, who currently lives in Spokane.

A third announcer, Marty Campbell, will help at the microphone Saturday night during a “chap” dance special featuring Dougie Hall, a PRCA bronc rider, stock contractor, Hollywood stuntman, Tik-Tok star and motivational speaker.

Ruben Little Head

Me’Kon’eso, Little Head’s Cheyenne name, literally means “little head” and describes “the small part of the head that’s visible when sneaking up on the enemy.”

He grew up on the Northern Cheyenne Reservation near the Tongue River Valley and the Black Lodge agency at Lame Deer, Montana, but he’s lived most of his life in Lawrence, where he earned degrees in business and American Indian studies from Haskell Indian Nations University. Little Head played four years of basketball at Haskell and continued graduate studies at the University of Kansas.

A powwow announcer for more than 20 years, Little Head is also an independent tribal consultant who works with various tribal

organizations in the United States and Canada.

“I look forward to sharing my knowledge and experience with

Hiyuum Nowland, center, elected Senior Youth Leadership Council Member-at-Large, addresses the audience before taking the oath of office Jan. 3 at Wildhorse Resort & Casino. CHRIS AADLAND | THE CUJ

Ruben Little Head

Devices are available to all residents of the Umatilla Indian Reservation. There are no income requirements. No tribal enrollment requirements. You will be asked to complete a short intake form. Our Digital Navigator will ask a few questions to assess your needs and determine the type of assistance we can provide to support (such as how to use the device, navigate the internet, or other specific support).

10:30 AM - 1:30PM Drop In:

Nixyaawii Governance Center

Every Monday

12:30 PM - 3:30PM

Mission Senior Center

1st & 3rd Tuesday

Yellowhawk Tribal Health Center

1st & 3rd Friday

9:00 AM - NOON

Nixyaawii Community Financial Services

1st & 3rd Thursday NOON - 3:00 PM

Title VI more than just Indian Education

LISA SNELL

The CUJ

MISSION – Youth Services

Manager Kendall Rosario needs you to understand what she does and why it is important.

She manages the Title VI Indian Education program for the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation (CTUIR).

“When I first started, there was a really negative idea of what Title VI was, why we were here,” she said. “Parents didn’t see and didn’t reap the benefits of what Title VI is. They kind of had no idea coordinators were in the schools or if they did, they didn’t know the purpose of them.”

Rosario said Title VI is when the federal government provides grant money to support Indigenous students in public school systems. “Basically, the government is providing this money as an apology for what they’ve done in the past,” she said. “And those that own the grant are allowed to offer that support in the best way we can for our students.”

She is three years into a fiveyear grant to increase school readiness, increase cultural identity and awareness, enhance problem solving and cognitive

2025_FebruaryCUJ_ad_PRINT-2.pdf

skills development, increase school attendance and decrease school dropout rates. She said she is also driven to increase graduation rates, career readiness skills, and college enrollment.

“We do a lot. We sponsor and introduce prevention activities and encourage parent participation. We introduce Native American language instruction programs and offer support for at-risk students,” Rosario said.

Each year has been a building year for the CTUIR’s Title VI program. Each year the team evaluates its goals, how it met objectives and how to best tailor its services to the individual schools it serves.

“We’ve shifted from just offering ‘Indian Education’ classes to being more intentional and increasing student’s sense of community. We’re teaching them all these different cultural things in order to help them create their own identity. And in doing that, increase their confidence, increase their sense of community and therefore increasing academic success through one way or the other,”

Rosario said.

Culture and Identity

Wynema Thurman is the Title VI coordinator for Pilot Rock

St. Anthony Hospital presents

PICTURING FAMILY

Opens Feb. 7

Thurman to launch a tribal map project. She searched for, and found, a tribal nations map showing geographically where most of the tribes residing in the United States and Canada originally lived. Many of the tribes are also identified by their own names, not their colonizer names.

“My project is totally volunteer, but I want students to sit down

with their families, if they don’t already know, and have a conversation. ‘What tribe or tribes am I?’ I want them to ask. Write it down. ‘Where is your tribe from?’ Write it down. I also want them to list some traditional activities they like to do, like beading, sewing, hunting, fishing

Students will add dots to the maps to mark their tribe(s) and Thurman will create a legend to track the tribal ancestry of the school’s students, updating it each year to reflect the student

“We have somebody that’s Cheyenne here. ‘What’s the Cheyenne tribe? What’s that about?’ Or we have an Arapaho, wow. ‘What do they do differently than I do?’ Each year I’m going to add another legend, and we’re just going to see how it changes. We had 15 Navajo students. Wow. Now we have 20 Seminoles, etc. I just want kids to understand there’s more [tribal cultures out there] than what’s on the rez,”

TITLE VI CONTINUED PAGE 8

This exhibit combines family photos of the Métis (mixed Indigenous and French Canadian) population of the Umatilla Indian Reservation at the turn of the 20th century with contemporary art made and collected by descendants of these same families at the turn of the 21st century. Through monumental projection, family stories, historical documents and works of art, Picturing Family o ers an immersive and emotional introduction to this important collection. Opening day is free!

Museum Store

UP TO 50% OFF WINTER APPAREL!

Sale ends February 28

It's going to be cold. Be prepared with warm winter apparel now on sale at up to 50% o ! You'll ﬁnd jackets, sweatshirts, gloves, sweaters, and more! A variety of sizes and many colorful designs. As a gift or for yourself, now is the time to take advantage of these low prices. O er may not be combined with other discounts or o ers.

JOIN ÍNWAITHECIRCLE OF FRIENDS!

If you aren't already a member of our Inwai Circle of Friends, we invite you to join. There are several options from which to select and include at minimum such beneﬁts as a free regular admission to all exhibits, advance notice of events, store and café specials, 20% discount at Museum Store, 10% discount at Kinship Café, and more. Simply go to www.tamastslikt.org/membership or stop by the reception desk at Tamástslikt Cultural Institute.

FREE FIRST FRIDAY!

FREE admission all day at Tamástslikt Cultural Institute.

February 7, 10am-5pm

FREE admission all day. Dine inside at Kinship Cafe or order take-out. Enjoy Indian Tacos ($10.50) and Frybread ($5) from 11am-2pm. Shop the Museum Store for up to 50% o winter apparel.

Title VI Coordinator Wynema Thurman, left, and Kendall Rosario show off a tribal nations map that will be displayed in one of the several schools in the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation’s education service area.

LISA SNELL | THE CUJ

whatever we’re eating, this can eat.”

Fruit, vegetables, meat - even cooking oils - can go into the digester.

Project leaders say the biodigester initiative was conceived as a way to reduce food waste from Longhouse feasts and events, but that they also hope to partner with community members interested in collecting their own food waste for the biodigester.

Until then, project leaders will be at events to educate community members about the initiative and plan to host a training event at the Longhouse in the spring, Sanders and and tribal member DeArcie Abraham, the project operator and owner of Biowaste Technologies, said.

The project previously held an informational session and training session and feast late last year.

The project is also looking for volunteers to help. Sanders said the project is currently working on a handbook for volunteers that will list the various ways community members can contribute or where volunteers might be needed.

When the biodigester begins accepting food waste, food will be dropped into the digester, where it will mix with microorganisms that will help the material break down. The methane created by the process will fill the inflatable chamber and be captured and stored in separate bags that can be hooked up to a cooking stove, Abraham said.

Eventually, Abraham and Sanders said they hope to buy the necessary equipment to pressurize the converted methane so it can be stored in cannisters, where it will have a longer shelf life.

They have also ordered a generator that will be able to convert the gas to electricity,

giving it a wider range of uses, Abraham said.

The breakdown process will also create a leftover substance, what Sanders called “compost tea,” that will also be collected from the biodigester and offered to community members to use as a liquid fertilizer their gardens. While it may sound like the process will smell, the shed and biodigester aren’t expected to be a major source of foul odors for residents of the area, Sanders added.

The biodigester will serve as an experiment, project leaders said. If they see enough community participation and demand for it use, Sanders and Abraham said they would like to expand the project to include additional digester locations and partner with other entities, such as the Nixyáawii Community School.

The biodigester project is being paid from with a grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, with some additional funding from Amazon. The Board of Trustees adopted a resolution supporting the project in October.

For questions, more information about the project or to volunteer, contact the CTUIR First Foods Policy Program at FirstFoods@CTUIR.org or 541429-7247.

Buckets labeled for food waste can already be found inside the Longhouse and are in use during events held there. CHRIS AADLAND | THE CUJ

DeArcie Abraham, Nixyáawii, Don’t Throw it Away! project operator and owner of Biowaste Technologies, assembles the newly installed anerobic digester inside the red shed purchased to house it outside the Mission Longhouse. Project leaders hope to start accepting community food scraps in addition to Longhouse food waste in March. CHRIS AADLAND | THE CUJ

CTUIR treats tribal elders to holiday luncheon

CHRIS AADLAND

THE CUJ

MISSION – The Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation (CTUIR) honored tribal elders with a Christmas luncheon on Jan. 3 inside the Wildhorse Resort & Casino (WRC) Rivers Event Center.

After postponing it twice in December out of respect to losses in the community, Julie Taylor, CTUIR Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) director, said more than 200 elders attended the annual event.

“I know that we’ve had a rough probably two to three weeks here,” Kathleen Elliott, the Elders Advisory Committee’s secretary and treasurer said. “As we’ve all been taught, we need to carry on, so that’s why we’re here today.”

In keeping with tradition, elders were treated to a free meal, entertainment and giveaways.

“The Nicht-Yow-Way (Elders) Advisory Group has it every year for the elders to gather and have a good time and to share,” Taylor said. She added that this year’s event marked the first fashion show in which several elders wore regalia they or another elder made. “I think that was a benefit and a plus for them to share their regalia and family heirlooms.”

Taylor said the Christmas luncheon differs from the one held during Round-Up in September because it is for CTUIR members specifically, although members of other tribes who live on the Umatilla Indian Reservation do attend. The September luncheon is for any Native American elder who visits during Round-Up.

Along with the fashion show and noon meal, the luncheon

2025 NICHT-YOW-WAY ADVISORY GROUP

CTUIR ELDER BIRTHDAYS

An Elder birthday cake will be at every Elder Meeting to recognize Elders on their birthday.

CTUIR 2025 EVENTS PLANNING SURVEYS ARE IN THE MAIL

PLEASE COMPLETE AND RETURN BEFORE FEB. 21

CTUIR ELDERS: Please update your contact information with the CTUIR Enrollment Office if any of your information has changed.

2025 Nicht-Yow-Way Elder Advisory Meetings

Meetings will be held at 9 a.m. in the Laxsimwit Conference Room at Yellowhawk Tribal Health Center. Dates are subject to change.

January

February 7th

March 7th

April 4th May 2nd June 13th

July 11th August 1st September

October 3rd November 7th December 5th

ZOOM IS AVAILABLE FOR CTUIR TRIBAL ELDERS. CALL DCFS at 541-429-7300 FOR ZOOM LINK.

QUESTIONS? CONTACT:

Sarah Frank 541-429-7388 | SarahFrank@ctuir.org

Kathleen Elliott | kopeterson00@gmail.com

featured the recognition of veterans, chiefs and elders who have passed since the previous luncheon; vendors; and door prizes. The oldest female and male elders in attendance, Delores Moses, 96, and Abbie Van Pelt, 78, were also recognized and given a gift.

“I attended to participate with all the other elders from the reservation and to see them,”

CTUIR member Eleanor Parker, of Adams, said. “It’s a nice way to get all the elders together to see one another because a lot of us would just stay home and not attend these big gatherings.”

Attendees also met with the Elders Advisory Group and DCFS representatives to discuss budget issues for the upcoming year, the trips elders will be offered, and other benefits that are available to CTUIR elders. They also discussed a survey elders will be asked to complete to gauge opinions on potential changes to trips and other benefits available to them.

The Elders Advisory Group consists of Chairwoman Mary Halfmoon, Vice Chairman Malvin Jamison and Secretary/ Treasurer Kathleen Elliott. They work alongside DCFS to provide services, coordinate events and arrange travel for recreational, cultural and educational trips to CTUIR members who are 55 and older.

Overall, there are a little more than 700 tribal member elders over the age of 55, Taylor said. To close the event, the elders gave way to the CTUIR Senior and Junior Youth Leadership Councils as they were sworn in by CTUIR Chief Judge William Johnson.

Mary C. Halfmoon, Chair • Malvin Jamison, Vice-Chair • Kathleen Elliott, Sec/Treasurer

Marie “Butch” Dick shows off her regalia during the inaugural fashion show held in conjunction with the annual Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation’s holiday elders’ luncheon. CHRIS AADLAND | THE CUJ

Winter Celebration contest winners

KELLEN JOSEPH Celebration Committee

Friday Night Gift Winners:

Tiny Tots Girls: Nicholi Mayfield, Mavis Mata, Lael Moses

Tiny Tot Boys: Timinah Ellenwood, Rodger Begay, Elijah OnePenney

Jr Girls Fancy/Jingle: Emma EagleSpeaker, Macaylee Le Mere, Hayden Plume

Jr Boys Fancy/Grass: James Tawina, Colton OnePenney, Cayuse Jones

Jr Girls Traditional: Hazel Quaempts, Olivia Gone, Marci Gottfriedson

Jr Boys Traditional: Levi Slokish, Phill Lord, Bronson Treloar

Teen Girls Fancy/Jingle: Vergalina Begay, Emani Benson, Alexis Bear

Teen Boys Fancy/Grass: Aaron Thompson, Robert Tawaina, Ian Mitchell

Teen Girls Traditional: Susan Tawawina, Elizabeth Bevis, Alex Payer

Teen Boys Traditional: Dan Corn, Cayton Little, John Moses

Golden Age Women: Carla Timentwa, Thomascita Sheep, Renne Sohappy

Golden Age Men: John Bevis, Curtis Bearchum, Brian George

Women Fancy/Jingle: Bridget EagleSpeaker, Daneal, Ju Looney

Men Fancy/Grass: Red Horse Wesley, Rollend Morning Owl, Kyle Mountainsheep

Women Traditional: Jordan Heemsah, Katrina Miller, Dolly Heemsah

Men Traditional: Jessie Bevis, Sydney John, Sky Smith

Saturday Night Pendleton Blanket Winners:

Tiny Tots Girls: Nicholi Mayfield, Jisena Spencer, Luna Gottfriedson

Tiny Tot Boys: Elijah OnePenney, Timinah Ellenwood, Roger Begay

Jr Girls Fancy/Jingle: Emma EagleSpeaker, Celia Bahee, Zeilayona John

Jr Boys Fancy/Grass: Harold George, Colton OnePenney, Cameron OnePenney

Jr Girls Traditional: Charlene Big Lake, Hazel Quaempts, Marci Gottfriedson

Jr Boys Traditional: Amadeo Tewee, Olivia Slockish, John Adams

Teen Girls Fancy/Jingle: Imani Benson, Lisa Sam, Alexis Payer

Teen Boys Fancy/Grass: Fan Mitchell, Liam Beebe, Garian McDonald

Teen Girls Traditional: Abi Kordatzky, Tiara Price, Luka Worden

Teen Boys Traditional: Daryl Whiteplume, Bigael Lloyd, Silas M

Golden Age Women: Carla Timentwa, Cece Walsey-Begay, Carmen Chalakee

Golden Age Men: Sid John, Brian George, Rod Begay

Women Fancy/Jingle: Bridget EagleSpeaker, Mtyer Bies, Daniel Wahusheild

Men Fancy/Grass: Red Horse Wesley, Rollen Morning Owl, Kyle Mountainsheep

Women Traditional: Manah Bebee, Sierra Minesinger, Lydia Skahan

Men Traditional: Brian Adams, Jeffrey Sohappy, Nataos Bebee

Basket Hat: Josephine Penney, Lydia Skahan, Jordan Heemsah

Round Bustle: Cecil Jackson, Rollen Morning Owl, Dillon Begay

Drums: Cayuse Singers, Indian Nation, Amakay, North Hill, Howtmi, Eagle Spirit, Rocky Ridge, Lightning Creek, Painted Hill, Umatilla Intertribal, Wild Rose, The Shooters, Big River, Dancing Eagle, Buffalo Trail

The Celebration Committee would like to thank the following organizations and individuals who helped make the 2024 Winter Celebration a success: Donators/Sponsors: Pendleton Woolen Mills, Pendleton Round Up & Happy Canyon, Wildhorse Casino, Cayuse Holdings, Wildhorse Foundation, Fred Hill Sr., Father Mike Fitzpatrick, CTUIR Language Program, DCFS, Jeremy and Althea Wolf, Raymond Huesties, Alan Crawford and CTUIR Bolster Crew

Volunteers: Lynn Sue Jones, Judy Burke Farrow, Coralie Clark, Kim Minthorn, Adrienne Berry, Gil Thomas, Tamera Curtis, Ike Blackwolf, Wenona Scott and her helpers

Committee Members: J’shon Thompson, Gabe Jones, Ellamae Looney, Syreeta Azure, Lorasa Joseph, Louis Halfmoon and Kellen Joseph

We also want to acknowledge everyone who contributed throughout the event – whether through donations, decorating, or lending a helping hand. A special thank you to all the drums, dancers, and vendors who brought energy and spirit to this year’s celebration. Thank you all for making this event a success!

— Committee Chair

OATH

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

will help me grow in many ways for when I am older as well as a resource for when applying for colleges,” said Miracle Edmiston, 15, of Pendleton High School.

Brockie Jr., 14, of Nixyáawii Community School, said he ran for Senior Council again to continue learning and focusing on treaty rights. “It was excellent last year, and I want the chance to learn new things and meet new people. I am also here to help save my treaty rights such as hunting, fishing, digging and picking.”

The Junior Youth Leadership Council (grades 6-8) consists of Chair Abigayle McIntosh; Vice Chair Luka Worden; Treasurer Grant Sheoships; Cultural Ambassador Gabriella Calvillo; Secretary Dazha Joseph; Publicist Sophia Ferman; Members-atLarge Savannah Clark, Nakai Gavin, Kateri Jones, Kelsey Jones, Loren Sampson and Brees Van Pelt; and Members Poppy DeMilo, Braylen Frost, Violet Jim, Cayuse Jones, Solomon Malumaleumu,

TCOC

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

the community of Pendleton and surrounding area,” Little Head said.

Little Head co-parents his four children – Xavier, Junior, Haven and Jasper. The two older boys attend college; the younger two attend elementary and middle school.

Little Head said he met a “beautiful Navajo nurse” three years ago.

“I believe the Creator sent Richanda to me so that we can eat good food, watch good movies and adventure in life making good memories together,” he said, adding that Richanda has two children – Jordan and Lorenzo – who live in California.

Little Head also enjoys coaching basketball and spending time with the two family dogs, Charlie, a bull terrier, and Nah’Ko Bear, a Bernese Mountain dog.

Lisa McIntosh, Savaya Minthorn, Awna’ee Najera, Desmond Nez, David Ramirez and Simon Shippentower.

“I ran for Junior Youth Council because I wanted to be more connected to my community and see how I can be more involved,” Gavin, a 12-year-old Sunridge Middle School student, said.

As part of the CTUIR’s Department of Children & Family Services (DCFS), the Youth Leadership Councils were created in 2015 to teach area CTUIR youth about tribal governance, offer them a voice in the CTUIR government, network with their peers and develop leadership skills. They meet regularly and travel to conferences and events and participate in various leadership development opportunities. Members of the councils were elected Nov. 23-24 at the WRC, and each councilor will serve a one-year term.

“The youth councils’ elections mark a significant step in fostering leadership and community engagement among the tribal youth,” DCFS Director Julie Taylor said.

announcing powwows for the last 12 years. He has helped announce the Onion Lake Powwow in Saskatchewan, the Siksika Nation Powwow in Alberta, the Tsuut’ina Nation’s Sarcee Powwow in Alberta, the Piikani Nation Powwow in Brocket Alberta and the Kalispel Tribes Powwow in Usk, Washington.

He said it is a “high honor” to help with the Two Cultures, One Community celebration.

Sanchez, whose traditional name translates to “Wolf Head,” works as a general laborer. He has four brothers and a sister. He likes to snowboard, play pool and bowl when he isn’t announcing.

Sanchez likes to share quotes from the late Margaret “Muggs” Friedlander, a Kanska (Kootenai) tribal activist who “educated oppressors and resisted colonialism” in her homelands of western Montana and Canada. Friedlander, who died in 2022, admonished her people to “learn your language, learn your songs” and “be proud of who you are and where you come from.”

“You come from these songs and from our language. Our ancestors live through you proudly every time you speak and sing,” Sanchez quoted.

The three-day Two Cultures One Community Powwow, featuring four sessions of dancing and drumming competition, will take place again at the Pendleton Convention Center. Last year more than 600 dancers from across the United States and Canada participated in the inaugural powwow, which also featured more than a dozen competing drum groups.

Mike Sanchez Sanchez grew up on the powwow trail and has been

TITLE VI

Thurman said.

Her maps are going up not just in her schools, but in all schools in the CTUIR’s service area.

“This map project is so important to show our kids and give them more knowledge than what they’re going to get in the books right now. My goal with this project is to make sure that kids, number one, know where they come from properly. Know where they come from and can feel comfortable within their identity - that they’re not just going to blend in with everybody. That they’re important. That they are enough. That they are somebody and this is the tribe they’re from,” she said.

For Rosario, identity is a healing tool.

“I think a lot of our students kind of just float through the system having no clear direction, not knowing who they are, where they come from and where they’re going. So, the goal is to help students formulate who they are, whatever that means, by providing them exposure to AIAN (American Indian Alaska Native) culture - whether that be through CTUIR or other tribes we service. We have 25 different tribes at the very least. We service and we have about 530 students in the program. There’s a lot of variability there and we want to make sure that those kids from Kansas or are Alaska Natives

provide them their own culture as well as have an opportunity for them to share their own culture as well,” she said.

In addition to composing and circulating a monthly Title VI newsletter to inform parents and the community about the program’s offerings, Rosario has a created a needs assessment survey for parents to reciprocate and tell her how best to serve the community.

“The survey has been posted since March last year and I’ve only had one response,” she said. “I believe the community should have a say in how our students are supported and I truly wantand need - to hear what they have to say.”

To access the survey, scan the QR code below with your smart phone or email KendallRosario@ ctuir.org and request a survey link.

If your student, yourself, or a grandparent is an enrolled member of a Federally Recognized Tribe or Band or if your student is a descendant of a parent or grandparent who meets these requirements, your student qualifies for Title VI services. Request Form 506 from your school

DOWNLOAD OUR NEW APP!

Nixyáawii Community School announces 1st semester honor rolls

FRESHMEN

Brooklyn Jones

Landon Schofield

Ayanna Star

SOPHOMORES

Sun Schimmel 4.0

Emma Star-Nez

Gracie Wilson

JUNIORS

Liana Higheagle 4.0

SENIORS

Addison Jones 4.0

Tecoa Enick

Symon Picard

Breyon Minthorn

Malana Spencer

Lauralee Stanger

Fourteen other students had a 3.0 or higher.

College Fund now taking scholarship applications

The American Indian College Fund’s scholarship application season for the 2025-26 academic year is open as of Feb. 1.

There are hundreds of scholarship opportunities available for all fields of study, including special opportunities uniquely available for students enrolled in tribal colleges and universities.

Any U.S. citizen who is an enrolled member or descendant of an enrolled member of a state or federally recognized American Indian or Alaska Native tribe may apply. Applicants must also have a minimum 2.0 grade point average and plan to enroll as a full-time student at a nonprofit, accredited college or university. For more information and a list of scholarships, scan the QR with your smart phone:

NCS recognizes exceptional students Awards given Jan. 29 during weekly protocol gathering

Citizenship awardees are Daijha Roper, Noah Burdeau, Cashis Beavis and Myalyn Mills. Not pictured is Nevaeh Moore.

Extra Mile awardees are Annalise Watchman, Malana Spencer, Ayanna Star, Emma Star-Nez and Malaeloa Malumaleumu.

Awarded Most Outstanding are Lauralee Stanger, Sophie Wilson, Brooklyn Jones, Landon Schofield, Weptas Brockie, Liana Higheagle, Addison Jones, Gracie Wilson and June Johnson.

Awarded for Relentless Perseverance are Tecoa Enick and Harley Gone

Principal’s Award recipient Tecoa Enick and Principal Ryan Heinrich.

Perfect Attendance awardees are Emery McConnell, Shylee Broncheau, Layla Wallahee, Brooklyn Jones, Ellis Ashley, Areas Cowapoo and Demetri Brockie. COURTESY PHOTOS | JULIE TAYLOR

Head Start kids enjoy museum visit

MISSION – Head Start’s Bear and Wolf classes enjoyed a trip to the Pendleton Children’s Museum Jan. 14.

“All of the children had a great time and they also had a snack during their visit,” said Preschool Coordinator Lloyd Commander. “The Children’s Museum staff worked well with us and we hope to return and have more fun learning.”

Parents were also invited to attend and many did.

“We are grateful that several parents attended this event with

their children,” Commander said. “Many parents and staff had a great time visiting with each other and watching the children enjoy themselves while they learned.”

Cay-Uma-Wa Head Start is accepting applications for this year. For more information call Randy Lyles at 541-429-7843 or come by the Nixyáawii Education Center to pick-up an application. An application can also be emailed to you or you can download a copy from www.ctuir.org.

Paisley and River explore the science gravity machine at the Pendleton Children’s Museum Jan. 14.

Neiko and his mom, Lucritia, pause between activities at the Pendleton Children’s Museum Jan. 14.

NIXYÁAWII

COMMUNITY SCHOOL

SCHOOL BOARD

ELECTION NOTICE

One Tribal Member

One Community Member

Applications Due: March 20

(available at the school or on the school website)

Election: April 24

Term: July 1, 2025 through June 30, 2029

Eligibility: Employees of a CTUIR entity or Nixyáawii Community School; parents of children currently enrolled in Nixyáawii Community School, a resident within the boundaries of the Umatilla Indian Reservation

NCS grad rate higher than state

CHRIS AADLAND

The

CUJ

MISSION – Native American students in the Pendleton School District graduated high school at higher rates than the rest Oregon’s class of 2024, according to statewide graduation rates released Jan. 30.

At Nixyáawii Community School (NCS), where nearly all students are Indigenous, the Native American student graduation rate of 87% was 17% higher than the state average for Indigenous students – and about 5% higher than the statewide rate of 81.8% for all students.

“We (our staff) always have room for improvement, but we also need to celebrate our successes,” NCS Principal Ryan Heinrich said in an email, adding that he wanted to acknowledge the school’s staff “for all their hard work and extra effort on Fridays and summertime they put into these kids. It does not go unnoticed.”

NCS is the Confederated Tribe of the Umatilla Indian Reservation’s charter school and part of the Pendleton School District. About 90 students were enrolled at the beginning of the school year.

Pendleton High School’s graduation rate was 88.8%.

Including NCS and the Hawthorne Alternative High School, it was 83.2% across the district, according to the data.

The increase at NCS continued an upward trend of increasing graduation rates. The increases across the Pendleton district were also an increase from the previous year.

According to the Oregon Department of Education, the graduation rate across Oregon has risen to the second highest in the state’s history after declines attributed to the COVID-19 pandemic and the ensuing disruptions.

Approximately 38,700 students in the class of 2024 started high school in distance learning due to the pandemic, according to education officials.

“This class of talented, gritty scholars are an inspiring example for other young people. Students and staff overcame all the obstacles that COVID-19 threw in their path,” said ODE Director Dr. Charlene Williams in a press release. “We are seeing results, but we know much more needs to be done so that every child is set up for success, not only to find their path to graduation, but to thrive in their educational experiences.”

Across the Pendleton School District, there was no significant

graduation rate gap between Indigenous students and their non-Native peers, according to district officials.

In addition, Pendleton officials counted improved dropout rates, as well as a better four-year graduation rate, at NCS among the district’s accomplishments. Still, the district said there were areas where improvements could be made.

For NCS, that included increasing its five-year completion rate and lowering dropout percentages, the district said. Both measures were worse than the state average.

Sky Smith accepts his Nixyáawii graduation gift on the stage in 2024.

Yellowhawk creating culturally appropriate training materials

CHRIS AADLAND

The CUJ

MISSION – Thanks to a recently awarded grant, Yellowhawk Tribal Health Center will create more culturally appropriate training material as part of an effort to increase the number of tribal member health workers at the clinic.

Yellowhawk announced on Jan. 14 that the Wildhorse Foundation had awarded the clinic $30,000 to establish a Community Health Practitioner education program. As part of that, Yellowhawk will produce training videos and other material that students and medical providers will use to learn the standards community health professionals at Yellowhawk and other tribal health providers should abide by, as well as better reflect the experiences of Indigenous communities for tribal members training to become community health aides in a tribal setting.

The material Yellowhawk will produce is part of a larger initiative the clinic is participating in alongside the Northwest Portland Area Indian Health Board (NPAIHB) and its Community Health Aide Program to train – and employ – more tribal members as health aides at their local tribal health care facilities.

Yellowhawk is one of four providers hosting pilot training program projects through the NPAIHB initiative, according to a Jan. 14 news release announcing the Wildhorse grant. Yellowhawk’s chief operating officer, Quincy George, thanked Wildhorse for the contribution and said the project “will be a great opportunity to incorporate our tribal community into developing updated health

WE R NATIVE is an example of information and materials promoted by the Northwest Portland Area Indian Health Board. It is a health resource for Native youth, by Native youth, providing content and stories about the topics that matter most to them. COURTESY

care pertinent to our tribal clinic while improving our quality of care.”

“I am excited to see the final produce and the positive impact that will ensue for Yellowhawk and our community for generations to come,” George said.

According to project leader and NPAIHB Community Health Aide Program director, Carrie Sampson, Indigenous people don’t often see themselves represented as health care providers or patients in training tools.

The videos and other training material Yellowhawk will produce will help fix that, she added.

“This video project allows AI/AN individuals to be fully represented in tools that will not only medically train them but also serve as a daily resource in their future roles as providers at Yellowhawk Tribal Health Center and other tribal health organizations,” she said.

The benefits of training programs like the one being launched by Yellowhawk is that they increase tribal member access to basic health care, free up other providers to handle more complex issues, and allow tribal members to stay in their home communities while training for a career with advancement opportunities, according to the NPAIHB.

Community health aides can perform many basic and essential health care functions, like seeing patients for basic chronic care appointments, conducting elder home care visits, vaccinations, wound treatment and prenatal care.

The videos and other training materials will be used for an educational website and iPad app called the Electronic Community Health Aide Manual for Practice (eCHAMP).

Yellowhawk, a CTUIR entity, provides health care and other services to more than 3,000 Indigenous patients. The Confederated Tribe of the Umatilla Indian Reservation’s Health Commission has endorsed participating in the program.

The Wildhorse Foundation is the organization that is responsible for distributing a portion of Wildhorse Resort & Casino gaming revenue to local programs and services in the area through grants. Since 2001, it has given out more than $18 million.

No. 1 TigerScots named OSAA Team of the Month

ANNIE FOWLER

The CUJ

ATHENA — The top-ranked Weston-McEwen girls basketball team was named the Oregon School Activities Association 2A Team of the Month for December after opening the season with 10 wins in a row.

During their 10-game streak, the TigerScots outscored opponents 488-345.

The TigerScots, coached by Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation

tribal member Jeremy Wolf, were 14-1 through their first 15 games last year, losing their season opener before winning the next 14.

The winning team is chosen based on performance, dedication in the classroom, and service to the community.

Each winner of the Les Schwab Tires Team of the Month award will receive a commemorative trophy and $100 will be donated to the team’s program, courtesy of Les Schwab Tires.

Kannon Weathers picks up junior bull riding title

ANNIE FOWLER

The CUJ

ADAMS – Kannan Weathers of Pendleton lives and breathes bull riding.

His passion for the sport paid off Jan. 3-4, with a win in the junior division at the Challenge of Champions Finale in Central Point at the Jackson County Fairgrounds.

Weathers, 15, a Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation member, had a good lead in the standings heading into the finals, but he failed to ride his first bull, putting him a few points behind the leader going into the second day.

He rode his second bull and won the title, picking up a modest paycheck, a buckle and a jacket.

While the young cowboys don’t ride the massive bulls – yet – they have moved up from the mini bulls.

“It was a tough adjustment,” Weathers said of the larger bulls. “They are a lot stronger than the mini bulls and have more power, but it’s fun.”

Weather’s younger brother, Pistol, was sixth in the finals

With the 2024 season over, the 2025 season already has begun. The first event was in Roseburg in January. He finished third. He rode the bull, but the animal stopped in the middle of the ride, leaving Weathers with 56 points. There are no rerides awarded at the junior level.

The second event will be March 1 in Prineville.

Rodeo is a dangerous sport, but Weathers has been fortunate to have only one serious injury.

While competing in Georgia, a bull stepped on his free hand, breaking it in three places. He had surgery and missed a good portion of the 2024 season.

He rode four times after he was hurt to build up points before having surgery. Weathers said his hand is better, just a couple of numb spots.

While the paychecks are small in the junior division, Weathers

saved his earnings and bought two practice bulls. He bought Kodak Black in September and Little Big Man a couple of weeks ago.

If the weather is bad, they have a Buckrite bucking machine in the garage as a second option. The device is a powered drop barrel for bull riders to perfect their technique and timing.

Weathers has been riding rough stock animals for a few years, and in 2023, he was the Oregon Junior High School State champion bull rider and qualified for the NJHSRA Finals in all three rough stock events. He also was second in bareback and third in saddle bronc.

Now, he mainly focuses on the bulls, with an occasional saddle bronc ride.

“I like saddle bronc because you don’t get your neck whipped around,” Weather said. “The bulls are my favorite, but the horses don’t chase you.”

Front row, left to right, are Manaia Wolf, Adalyn Hall, Brooklyn Parker, Kylie Kramer, Cara Freels and Lily Langford. Back row: Assistant Coach Becky Kane, Team Manager Delaynee Angell, Charlotte Hansell, Mirthe Oud, Brynn Brownie, Sydney Carey, Reagan Pickard, Kelsey Graham, Head Coach Jeremy Red Star Wolf and Assistant Coach Louie Quaempts. COURTESY PHOTO

Kannon Weathers earns a win at the Challenge of Champions Jan. 4. COURTESY

Tribal member leads TigerScots to success

ANNIE FOWLER

The CUJ

ATHENA — Jeremy Red Star Wolf’s resumé is quite eclectic. He’s an artist, an outdoorsman, a former member of the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation (CTUIR) Board of Trustees, and for four months out of the year, he adds girls basketball coach to the mix.

“A lot of things aren’t done in a vacuum, they are done at the same time,” Wolf said, “I try to stay busy.”

Wolf is in his fourth season as the head girls basketball coach at Weston-McEwen High School, and his TigerScots have been making waves all season. Despite two Blue Mountain Conference losses, the TigerScots have a 17-3 record (through Jan. 30) and are ranked No. 1 in the 2A poll.

“They have an opportunity to do something special this year,” Wolf said of his team.

Wolf was working with Brian Pickard with the W-M boys team when he was asked if he would like to coach the girls teams.

“It was a great opportunity to build a program,” Wolf said. “I had never coached at that level before. It has been challenging. The game play, the speed, the community involvement, the administration. It can be a lot. It’s a part-time gig and takes up a lot of my time, but it’s certainly worth it.”

When Wolf first took over, he had a couple of talented freshmen in Kelsey Graham and Kylie Kramer, and he values their

veteran leadership.

“Because they have been in the program since the beginning, the communication level is as good as I have ever had it,” Wolf said. “We have been working together for four years. That is something. I don’t have to say a lot. In the beginning, we were all starting to figure it out. Their ability to provide that guidance to the rest of the team makes my job easier.”

Sophomore Charlotte Hansell has been key to the TigerScots’ success this season, and her dedication is appreciated.

“Charlotte comes every day to learn,” Wolf said. “She puts in work outside of practice and it shows. I have appreciated her since that first summer. She was raring to go and wanted to get better. She’s a blessing to have.”

Wolf also has enjoyed coaching

his daughter, Manaia, who is a junior on the team.

“She has done a lot of growth,” Wolf said. “She has always been willing to sacrifice and work hard. It’s something she has grown into. She didn’t play when she was younger because she had hip dysplasia and had had numerous surgeries. She has had her struggles, but it makes her who she is. It’s been rewarding for me on a personal level.”

While the TigerScots’ success this season has been nice, Wolf said he hopes the players leave the program with more than wins and losses.

“Honestly, with everything we do, I want them to become better people from this program, even if it’s just a little thing,” he said. “Camaraderie, work ethic, working toward a common goal. Those are the lessons I hope the girls get out of playing for our program. There will always be a sacrifice you have to make. If you want to be extraordinary, you have to work hard and do things others don’t.”

Coaching can be a time consuming endeavor and takes time from the family, but Wolf said his wife, Althea Huesties-Wolf, has been very supportive, and he also relies heavily on his assistant coaches — varsity assistant Louie Quaempts, former junior varsity coach Dustie Pickard, former junior varsity coach Travis Glover, and current junior varsity coach Becky Kane, who is new to the program this year.

“Additionally, all the school administrative staff who help keep our program running in the

background, as well as the great Athena/Weston community,” Wolf said. “And notably all the support from the parents.”

Lastly, there are the players to thank.

“The players themselves have put up with me and have made me a more driven and more complete person, whether they realize it or not,” Wolf said.

From Cayuse to the court

Wolf grew up along the Umatilla River and he has been culturally active since he was young. He has been active in tribal government, and along the way earned a college degree.

His family also has been lifelong participants in Happy Canyon.

He graduated from WestonMcEwen in 1996, attended Blue Mountain Community College, and later graduated from Oregon State University’s School of Forestry with a bachelor of science degree in natural resources. Presently, he is the Water Resources Program acting manager for the CTUIR.

Growing up, he took an interest in art, and several of his pieces can be found at BMCC, the Nixyáawii Governance Center and at Wildhorse Resort & Casino.

“I also did illustrations for a book, ‘Renegade Tribe’ by Clifford Trafzer,” Wolf said. “It’s a story about the history of the Palouse Indians. Art has always been a part of my life since I was younger.”

In high school, Wolf played football for a couple of years but put most of his efforts into playing basketball. The TigerScots went to state his junior and senior seasons.

During his junior year in 1995, the TigerScots won the consolation final (fourth place), while his senior year they lost in the consolation final.

“That is something I want to do for these girls,” Wolf said of going to the state tournament in Pendleton. “It was an electric feeling. The girls deserve it.”

Weston-McEwen head coach Jeremy Red Star Wolf advises his team near the end of a game against Enterprise Feb. 1 in Athena. KATHY ANEY | THE CUJ

Manaia Wolf brings the ball downcourt while playing Enterprise Feb. 1.

Weston-McEwen head coach Jeremy Red Star Wolf watches the action on the court as his team plays Jan. 17 in Stanfield.

Nixyáawii’s Bronson, Picard join 1,000-point club

ANNIE FOWLER

The

CUJ

MISSION — There’s never a lack of points when the Nixyáawii boys basketball team hits the court and seniors Rylen Bronson and Symon Picard are partly responsible for more than 2,300 points over the past three-plus seasons.

The two Golden Eagles, who are part of the 1,000-point club, were honored for their achievements before a packed house at their home game against Pilot Rock on Jan. 14.

Bronson finished his junior year with 1,029 points, eclipsing the 1,000-point mark during the 1A state tournament. He now has 1,152 points.

“I have had a lot of great opportunities to score and my teammates helped me get there,” Bronson said. “And extra work in the gym and practicing shots all factor in.”

Picard surpassed the 1,000-point mark in the second game of this season against Crosshill Christian. His point total stands at 1,227.

“I never really had a goal to reach 1,000,” he said, “but when they said I was close last year, I wanted to get it. It’s a special

milestone to get. Basketball is definitely a team sport. No one guy can do it all. Basketball is bigger than one. We work off of each other. We try to be one unit on the floor.”

Picard ranks third in alltime scoring at Nixyáawii, while Bronson is fourth. Mick Schimmel holds the school record at 1,869, while Baron Moses is second at 1,594.

“It’s awesome to experience this with him,” Bronson said. “Symon is like my brother. We play well together on the court. We connect and move the ball really easily.”

Picard echoed the sentiment.

“It’s a cool feeling,” he said. “Rylan and I have played a lot of basketball together. To get 1,000 points our senior year is pretty cool.”

Bronson and Picard have played basketball together since they were in grade school. They played on the same Amateur Athletic Union teams and played in summer tournaments together. Before playing for Nixyáawii, Bronson attended Pilot Rock and Picard went to school in Weston. They have played high school ball together since they were sophomores.

“I went to Pilot Rock my freshman year,” Bronson said. “I had a lot of people from there come up and congratulate me after the game. That was nice.”

The Golden Eagles are 10-2 overall this season, and 1-0 in Old Oregon League play. Their losses are to 3A Umatilla and Mannahouse Academy.

“Those losses helped us to get

better in ways we didn’t know,” Bronson said.

As Nixyáawii delves into the rest of its season, the players will rely on each other and draw strength from the community.

“Our whole team feels supported by the community,” Picard said. “Our community stands behind us to help us reach our goals.”

Nixyáawii Community School seniors Rylen Bronson (0) and Symon Picard smile on Jan. 14 as they are honored for reaching 1,000 points during their high school careers. KATHY ANEY | THE CUJ

Frank Lynn Reed

February 15, 1952 – December 30, 2024

Frank Lynn Reed, age 72, passed away December 30th, 2024, at his home in Gibbon, Oregon. Frank was born in Pendleton, Oregon on February 15, 1952, to Walter “Sonny” and Patricia “Patsy” Reed. He grew up on Pendleton’s South Hill and attended Hawthorne Elementary School, Pendleton Junior High School and graduated from Pendleton High School in 1970. Frank was known as “Lynn” to family and friends growing up and enjoyed playing sports in school with his friends. He had family in North Carolina, and he frequently visited there in his childhood. He spent much of his youth with beloved family members on the Umatilla Indian Reservation riding horses and hunting.

Frank loved history and was especially interested in flight. This led him to attend Blue Mountain Community College in Pendleton, Oregon where he obtained his associate’s degree in 1972 in Air Transportation Technology, specifically Air Traffic Controller. However, life led him in another direction. In 1975, he started working at Fleetwood Travel Trailers in Pendleton. He worked there from 1975 until 1994. Frank was well liked by his coworkers and known for his strong work ethic. Rarely missing a workday, he quickly became a Lead team member at Fleetwood. Frank decided to make a career change, and when Wildhorse Casino was developed, he was hired. He began his career in Surveillance at the temporary facility, opening in November 1994. The Resort and Casino went through many changes over the years, and Frank was there through all of it. He worked at the Casino until he retired in 2018 as the Surveillance Director.

Frank married Paula Robinson in 1975 and together they had two daughters, Brilynn Reed of Pendleton, Oregon and Nicole Reed of La Grande, Oregon. They were later divorced and Frank married Lois Holloway on April 8th, 2002. Frank and Lois spent the last 22 years together at their home in Gibbon. They had a shared love of gardening, going to the mountains and taking vacations to the Oregon Coast. They spent many hours maintaining their yard and watching the hummingbirds.

Frank loved all animals, but horses and dogs were very special to him. He was never without one or the other. He loved spending time in the mountains looking for wildlife to hunt and wood to cut. He was a social man who enjoyed spending time with people. Many of Frank’s best times were spent in the mountains with family and friends. Wood heat was a staple in his home, and collecting firewood was often a family event. His best friend, his older brother, Walter “Worth” Reed was often by his side. Worth and Lynn were always close and had many adventures in their youth traveling the United States by car, carousing and causing headaches for their parents, hunting in the mountains, and hanging out at elk camp.

Frank was especially proud of his daughters Brilynn and Nicole Reed. He taught them to love animals, work hard, go to school, and keep the radio always playing. He was known to laugh and joke with his girls and was always up for a good trick, singing along with the radio or watching a comedy on television.

Frank will be missed by all his past coworkers and friends from Fleetwood and Wildhorse Resort and Casino. He is survived by his wife, Lois Holloway, his daughter, Brilynn Reed (Victor Alvarado), daughter, Nicole Reed, his brother, Walter Worth Reed (La Belva Reed) and granddaughter, Lucy Montoya. He is predeceased by his parents Sonny and Patsy Reed.

Frank was never a fan of the winter, so a celebration of life service will be held at Cayuse Hall at Wildhorse Casino and Resort on Friday, March 21st from 1:00pm-4:00pm. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Frank’s life and share memories of their time with him.

Robert A. Shippentower

May 31, 1946 – February 2, 2025

Robert “Bob” Shippentower passed away peacefully at Regency Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Hermiston, Oregon on February 2, 2025. He was born in Bishop, California on May 31, 1946 to Alex and Blanche Shippentower. He grew up in Pendleton, Oregon, and Bishop, California with his siblings John, Rosenda, and William. He was a proud graduate of Pendleton High School where he played varsity basketball, and varsity baseball and was a recreational boxer. In May of 1967 Bob was drafted in the U.S. Army. He was a sergeant and was honorably discharged in May 1973. His decorations and awards were sharpshooter and expert in rifle, marksman, National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Combat Infantryman’s Badge, Vietnam Campaign Medal with device, Army Commendation Medal, and Purple Heart with 1st Oak Leaf Cluster.

After his life in the military, Bob raised his son Richmond “Joe” Joseph Shippentower in Pendleton, Eugene, and Bishop.

He attended Blue Mountain Community College, Eastern Oregon University, and Haskell Indian Nations University, eventually graduating from the University of Oregon. He worked as a social worker for several years and eventually attended graduate school at the University of California, Berkeley.

Bob had many jobs throughout his life: pitched peas, drove farm trucks, social worker, cashier, laborer, and front desk. In 1998 he was elected as the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation (CTUIR) General Council Chairman and a Board Member at Large. He served many years on the CTUIR Health Commission and other committees and commissions throughout his lifetime. He was a natural-born leader, with a grassroots way of leading that made him enjoy working on policies that impacted his fellow tribal members. Bob was an advocate for accountability and transparency in leadership. Throughout his life, he believed in, and practiced, the power of asking tough questions, challenging the status quo, and demanding truth from those in positions of power. Bob was committed to integrity and he was a truth seeker. When he had his clipboard with him you knew he was working on something. He never hesitated to speak up when something didn’t seem right, using his voice and his words, Bob often wrote Letters to the Editor in the Confederated Umatilla Journal (CUJ) and, on occasion to the East Oregonian, to raise awareness, and challenge leadership, and demand transparency.

Bob also enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren and his greatgrandson in California, Oregon, and Idaho. He enjoyed taking road trips, and backyard barbeques. He also played in tribal basketball tournaments throughout Indian Country. He enjoyed running and jogging. He was a big supporter of the Yellowhawk Fun Run. He liked to watch local high school sports basketball and baseball. He was a huge Oregon Ducks fan as an alumni and enjoyed watching games.

Bob is survived by his wife Beverly Penney, son, Jerrid (Brandie) Weaskus, grandchildren Anthony, Darren, and Marella Shippentower, Philip, Natasha, Asia, Victoria, Mahalie, and Wahlitits Weaskus. Great-Grandson Anthony Joseph “AJ” Shippentower. He was survived by his sister Rosenda and niece Carmen James. He was survived by his many nieces, nephews, grandnieces, and grandnephews.

Preceded by his parents Alex and Blanche Shippentower, his brothers John and William Shippentower, his son Richmond “Joe” Joseph Shippentower, nephews Allen and Jerry Spencer, and grandnephew Jerry Spencer.