2024 January CUJ

JANUARY 2024 | CONFEDERATED UMATILLA JOURNAL

JANUARY 2024

CONFEDERATED UMATILLA JOURNAL

NEWS DAILY @ CUJ ONLINE

VOLUME 32 • ISSUE 1

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

Watchman to lead CTUIR Workforce Development Dept.

MISSION – Former Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation (CTUIR) General Council Chair Lindsey X. Watchman is continuing his tribal service by transitioning from elected official to directing the Workforce Development Department.

He started his director’s role on Dec. 11 after spending the previous four years on the Board of Trustees as General Council chair. He chose not to run for re-election.

“I had a desire to get back into the trenches,” Watchman, 52, said.

“I enjoy interacting directly with and training tribal members, to find out what their life aspirations and dreams are and to help create a roadmap to assist that dream come into reality. These are the moments that workforce developmentfocused staff strive for.”

Watchman’s last day on the Board was Nov. 29, the day newly elected CTUIR officials were inaugurated. Before being elected in 2019, he spent four years at the Yellowhawk Tribal Health Center as its workforce development and health education grant manager.

He left that position in April 2019.

Prior his time at Yellowhawk, he spent 2012-14 managing the WATCHMAN CONTINUED PAGE 8

President Joe Biden speaks before signing an executive order at the White House Tribal Nations Summit at the Department of the Interior, Wednesday, Dec. 6, 2023, in Washington. EVAN VUCCI | ASSOCIATED PRESS

Executive orders, MOUs highlight D.C. summit

By CHRIS AADLAND Reporter WASHINGTON – An early December announcement that the federal government was committed to finalizing an agreement with four Columbia River treaty tribes to share management of a culturally important mountain near the Tri-Cities was among several developments affecting the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation (CTUIR) that stemmed from a gathering of tribal leaders last month at the nation’s Capitol.

According to the Biden administration, the Department of Energy (DOE) and Department of the Interior (DOI) signed a memorandum of understanding Dec. 6 intended to lead to a formal agreement with the tribes, including CTUIR, to share management authority for Rattlesnake Mountain, also known as Laliik.

The announcement was made during the 2023 White House Tribal Nations Summit and came amid another broader proclamation regarding tribal self-determination and federal funding reforms that will

have broad implications for CTUIR and other tribes, amid other policy changes, unveiled during the twoday gathering.

CTUIR Board of Trustees Vice Chair Aaron Ashley represented the tribe at the annual gathering, which was held Dec. 6-7.

The Board sent Ashley with several priorities, Laliik being one of them, to discuss with federal officials during meetings “to raise the interest and concerns and promote support for CTUIR in areas of importance for us,” he said.

SUMMIT CONTINUED PAGE 15

Feds announce plan to invest in salmon recovery MISSION – Tribal leaders are celebrating an agreement with the federal government announced Dec. 14 – a pledge to spend hundreds of millions to help depleted salmon populations recover and to plan the potential breaching of dams in the basin.

The plan, “The Columbia Basin Restoration Initiative” is the result of a mediation process stemming from a long-running lawsuit that claimed that the operation of the four dams on the lower Snake River violated the Endangered Species Act and tribal treaty fish harvest rights.

It is also the latest commitment – amid what many tribes, including the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla

CTUIR 46411 Timine Way Pendleton, OR 97801

By CHRIS AADLAND Reporter

Indian Reservation (CTUIR), have described as a crisis that could soon lead to the extinction of culturally, spiritually, and economically important fish species – the federal government has made to tribes to partner with, and prioritize, recovery efforts.

While the federal government didn’t agree to dismantle any of the controversial dams in the basin, it

will ensure that a framework is in place to replace resources – such as irrigation water, power and transportation – provided by the current dam system should Congress authorize dam breaching, an idea critics warned on Dec. 14 that could have drastic consequences for the region’s residents.

SALMON CONTINUED PAGE 4

Presorted Standard U.S. Postage PAID Pendleton, OR Permit #100

2

CONFEDERATED UMATILLA JOURNAL | JANUARY 2024

SULCASMAAMÍ TIIČÁM CTUIR VETERAN SERVICES OFFERED Service Connected Disability/Dependent claims preparation/filing VA Health Care Sign-Up VA Pension Preparation and Filing Individual/Emergency Assistance Attaining Military Discharge Paperwork Other Vital Documents

CONTACT THE CTUIR VETERANS OFFICE Sam Spino: 541-429-7389 SamSpino@ctuir.org Calista Winnett: 541-429-7388 CalistaWinnett@ctuir.org We do request all Veterans, CTUIR and Employees of the Tribal Enterprises, bring in all related documents.

Please call/email with questions in regard to documents needed.

UPCOMING EVENTS 1st - New Year’s Day Emancipation Proclamation 4th - National Ribbon Skirt Day 9th - Law Enforcement Appreciation Day 11th - National Human Trafficking Awareness Day 15th - Martin Luther King Day Civil Rights Day Martin Luther King Birthday 27th - International Holocaust Rememberance Day

Nixyáawii Community Financial Services Executive Director Dave Tovey, right, holds his Outstanding Leadership Award on Dec. 3 during the Native CDFI Network’s annual Policy and Capacity-Building Summit in Washington, D.C. Also shown are Stacy McQuade-Eger, Affiliated Tribes of Northwest Indians Economic Development Corporation executive director, which won the network’s 2023 Award of Excellence, and Native CDFI Network CEO Pete Upton. Tovey also serves on the ATNI-ED’s Board of Directors. NATIVE CDFI NETWORK | COURTESY

NCFS’ Tovey honored with leadership award MISSION – The Native CDFI Network on Dec. 3 recognized Dave Tovey, Nixyáawii Community Financial Services executive director, with an Outstanding Leadership Award during its annual Policy and Capacity-Building Summit in Washington, D.C. Tovey said he considers himself a rookie in the Native community development financial institutions arena but was grateful for the recognition.

“I’m so very fortunate to have a wonderful, hard-working team here at Nixyáawii Community Financial Services as well as the other two Native CDFIs (Affiliated Tribes of Northwest Indians Economic Development Corporation and Indian Land Capital Company) I am privileged to serve as a board member. Was so kind to get these honors, but it’s all a result of those talented folks I get to work with,” he said.

The Native CDFI Network is a national voice and advocate that strengthens and promotes Native CDFIs, creating access to capital and resources for Native peoples. It was formed in 2009 to unify Native CDFIs serving Native trust land communities, American Indians,

Alaska Natives and Native Hawaiians.

The Native CDFI Network also recognized the ATNI-EDC, of which Tovey serves as Board of Directors president, with the 2023 Award of Excellence.

“This story is not just about the success of an application, it’s about the values that drive this organization,” said Native CDFI Network CEO Pete Upton. “It’s about the commitment to the greater good, the ability to navigate change deftly and the unwavering dedication to the prosperity of the Native communities they serve. The recognition and awards bestowed upon Dave Tovey and the ATNI-EDC team tonight are not just accolades, they are a testament to their unwavering dedication and tireless efforts.”

Nixyáawii Community Financial Services is owned and operated by the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation (CTUIR). It provides loans, homeownership assistance, business development services, youth and adult financial education to CTUIR members, reservation residents and tribal employees. For more information, call 541-304-2387 or visit https:// www.nixyaawii-cdfi.org.

JANUARY 2024 | CONFEDERATED UMATILLA JOURNAL

3

CTUIR welcomes Rep. Hartman to the reservation MISSION – Leaders of the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation (CTUIR) recently welcomed State Rep. Annessa Hartman to the Nixyáawii Governance Center for a tour of the tribal facilities.

Hartman, a freshman lawmaker who represents District 40, is a member of the Six Nations of Iroquois (Cayuga Nation) and the third Indigenous person elected to the Oregon House of Representatives.

The Gladstone Democrat said she visited the CTUIR because she wants to develop relationships with all the Native American tribes in Oregon.

“I know that it hasn’t always been something that legislators think is a responsibility of theirs, to create those relationships, but as the vice chair of the Ag, Land Use, Natural Resources and Water (Committee) it’s all connected,” Hartman said.

“There’s not really a line there for me, and so I’m State Rep. Annessa Hartman (D-Gladstone), second from right, takes a group photo with, from left, making sure I form those relationships directly Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation Board of Trustees Vice Chair Aaron Ashley and BOT with those that are working with their community Members At Large Lisa Ganuelas and Corinne Sams on Nov. 28 at the Tamastslikt Cultural Institute. when we’re looking at policy. Not everyone has it seeing all the accomplishments the tribe has done. really cared about what we are doing here and in their minds to look and see how the policy we It’s so amazing to watch it grow. There’s just a what we are hoping to accomplish. She seemed enact on a state level impacts our tribal partners, sense of community that I wish we could repeat tremendously receptive to our initiatives, and we so it’s important that I begin that relationshipout and sort of copy and paste,” Hartman said. are looking forward to working with her in the building piece.”

“I’m interested in learning more about the housing future.” Tovey said.

Deputy Executive Director JD Tovey showed barriers that the tribe is facing. That’s in my head In the Oregon House of Representatives, Hartman the governance center, including stops right now, that and supporting the Walla Walla Hartman serves as vice chair of the House Interim in the Tribal Court and Board of Trustees offices, Water Basin projects that it has coming up and see Committee on Agriculture, Land Use, Natural before visiting the Kayak Public Transit and where we go from there.”

Resources and Water. She is also on the Joint Yellowhawk Tribal Health Center facilities. They Tovey said he was delighted to host Hartman Committee of Information Management and then visited the Timíne Way North Apartments because it allowed CTUIR officials to meet one of Technology, Joint Committee of Transportation and Nixyáawii Community School before meeting the few Native legislators in the House.

Special Subcommittee on Transportation Planning, Board of Trustees Vice Chair Aaron Ashley and “The visit with Rep. Hartman gave us the House Interim Committee on Early Childhood and BOT Members At Large Corinne Sams and Lisa opportunity to meet not only a state representative, Human Services and House Interim Committee on Ganuelas for lunch at the Tamastslikt Cultural but a Native representative. Parting ways with Housing and Homelessness.

Institute.

“I think it’s absolutely amazing here and 2024_Jan-originalCUJ_ad_PRINT.pdf 9.75" x being 7.625" 12/18/2023 8:37:50 AM her at the end of the day gave us a sense that she

TAMÁSTSLIKT CULTURAL INSTITUTE | EAT. SHOP. EXPLORE. | JANUARY 2024

FREE First Friday!

January 5 10am-5pm

FREE admission all day at Tamástslikt Cultural Institute. View the pop-up exhibit "Letitia Carson: An Enduring Spirit of Hope and Freedom". Enjoy Indian Tacos and Frybread from 11am-2pm at Kinship Cafe.

Shop the Museum Store and get the new KUSI Pendleton blanket while they're still in stock!

Museum

Letitia Carson: An Enduring Spirit of Hope and Freedom Ends February 9

Letitia Carson was a Black Oregon homesteader, farmer and matriarch living in the time of Oregon’s exclusion laws. This pop-up exhibit created by Oregon Black Pioneers tells the story of Letitia’s transition from enslaved woman to landowner, and how her persistence and grit carved pathways for Black and Indigenous Oregonians today.

Admission is free and open to the public!

CULTURAL INSTITUTE

47106 Wildhorse Blvd.

Pendleton, OR 97801

www.tamástslikt.org 541.429.7700

Museum Store

Kinship Café

The Kúsi exclusive design Pendleton blanket is our most popular item.

Get yours early as they sell out quickly. Priced at $335 the blanket is a collector's item with its unique 25th Anniversary patch and makes a memorable gift.

Tuesday through Saturday! Great lunch options, weekly specials, and tasty huckleberry treats!

NEW Kúsi Pendleton Blankets In Stock!

Open for lunch 11am-2pm

Museum

Excuse the Mess!

We are updating and installing exhibitry in our permanent exhibit galleries so you may run into some workers and detours. Regardless, our exhibits are still open. And, we're offering you free admission Jan. 2-31! Thank you for your patience. We look forward to seeing you in the new year!

Exhibits, Museum Store Open Tues-Sat, 10am-5pm Kinship Cafe Open Tues-Sat 11am-2pm First Fridays are FREE!

CONFEDERATED UMATILLA JOURNAL | JANUARY 2024

4

SALMON CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

ABOUT THE CUJ

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

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

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

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

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

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

• Letters containing profanity will not be published.

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

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

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

https://cuj.ctuir.org

The agreement was negotiated by the federal government and Six Sovereigns – the CTUIR, the Yakama Nation, the Confederated Tribes of the Warm Springs Reservation, the Nez Perce and the states of Oregon and Washington.

“The Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation is very appreciative of the collaboration with the Six Sovereigns and our federal partners, and looks forward to working together to advance the goals of healthy and abundant salmon for the benefit of current and future generations,” said CTUIR Board of Trustees member Corinne Sams, in the Dec. 15 White House announcement of the agreement.

Sams, who is also the CTUIR Fish & Wildlife Commission chair and chair of the Columbia River Intertribal Fish Commission, said in her statement, the plan “addresses goals for healthy, abundant population of fish to support tribal treaty and non-tribal harvest” while also ensuring that other considerations, such as climate change, the regions energy and transportation needs, and recreational opportunities are factored in to any future changes.

Under the agreement, the government will invest $300 million – bringing the total the administration of President Joe Biden has promised for initiatives to help salmon populations recover to more than $1 billion – over the next 10 years.

During that time, the litigation that led to the plan will be paused.

The money will be used to improve hatchery operations in the regions, with $100 million going directly to the Six Sovereigns to advance restoration efforts.

The mediation process also resulted in a compromise on how the dams are operated, and how much water is spilled and when, to help salmon runs.

The government also committed to support the development of at least one to three gigawatts of tribal clean energy projects that could offset power losses from the potential breaching of dams. In addition, the White House said the federal government would conduct, or pay for, studies that would further determine how the services provided by the four lower Snake River dams could be replaced.

Conservations groups, including those involved in the lawsuit, and other groups – including some who advocate for irrigators – also cheered the plan, saying it was a major step in helping endangered salmon and steelhead populations recover from drastic declines and in providing a pathway for future dam breaching and ensuring it that wouldn’t harm others who count on the basin’s water and energy.

Still, some – like advocacy organizations that represent energy utility companies, farmers and other interests, such as shipping and transportation, that rely on the dam

Terrie Brigham Price and Nakeyah Watchman hold a couple of spring Chinook Salmon they caught on the Columbia River in May 2023. CUJ | FILE PHOTO

system – have opposed any plans that could lead to dam breaching.

Critics have argued it is not the Columbia River Basin’s dams – as tribes have said for years and as government scientists have recently concluded in high-profile studies – but a warming and acidifying ocean that is to blame for salmon population declines. They’ve also said the loss of the cheap, reliable and renewable power generated by the dams couldn’t be easily replaced and dismantling the basin’s dams would have other negative effects for industries that rely on its system of dams.

A group of Republicans who represent Pacific Northwest districts in Congress leaked a draft of the agreement in November, saying the mediation process was unfairly secretive and excluded input from some industries that rely on the river basin and the energy, transportation and irrigation systems created by its dams.

Opponents also had an opportunity to criticize the outcome of the mediation process during a Dec. 13 Congressional hearing, led by Rep. Cliff Bentz, R-Ore., who earlier this month called the plan a “destructive, politicized, unfair, and deceptive scheme to ultimately remove the four lower Snake River dams.”

One of those groups opposed to dam breaching, Northwest RiverPartners, recently said the agreement handed “the keys to antihydro parties whose state objective is to dismantle the entire system.

Another, the Public Power Council, also recently called it “the single greatest threat to the vitality of the region’s hydropower system we have ever faced.”

On Dec. 14, that group claimed that rates for Bonneville Power Administration (BPA) energy will go up by at least 40%.

“Almost two years of a closeddoor process that began with a prodam breach agenda from the US Government ended today with, not surprisingly, a blueprint for how to devalue, deplete and ultimately demolish our region’s clean, renewable federal hydro power projects,” Public Power Council CEO and Executive Director Scott Simms said in a press release, adding that government “has now fully shown its cards – turning its back on the citizens, communities and the economy of the Northwest through this so-called agreement with six

parties, but no one else.”

The agreement, however, won’t lead to drastic increases in energy costs for those in the region, the federal government said in its Dec. 14 announcement. The BPA estimated an annual average rate increase of 0.7%, according to the White House.

It also upholds tribal treaty rights and gives them greater control over restoration work and the future of the Columbia River Basin.

“For generations, the Columbia River Basin ecosystem has served as an integral economic and cultural cornerstone for communities and businesses throughout the Pacific Northwest — especially tribal communities,” U.S. Department of Energy Deputy Secretary David Turk said in the announcement. “Today’s historic agreement reinforces the Biden-Harris Administration commitment to honoring the federal government’s treaty and trust responsibilities to tribal nations and will provide long-term stability and operational reliability so that communities across the region can prosper for generations to come.”

The plan comes after a flurry of federal government commitments and directives to aggressively work to help save salmon populations in the basin and uphold tribal treaty rights, in addition to recent government studies that have concluded that dams were the primary barriers to the recovery of salmon and other species – a plan that has given conservation groups and tribes hope that the region’s dams would someday be demolished and the Columbia River’s salmon would once again thrive.

“We will not allow extinction to be an option for the salmon, nor for us.

The United States is bound to salmon and to us by treaty where we reserved all our fisheries,” Nez Perce Tribal Chairman Shannon Wheeler said in the Dec. 14 announcement. “The federal dams on the lower Snake and mainstem Columbia rivers have had – and continue to have – devastating impacts on the salmon and our people, burdening our treaty partnership.”

For the four tribes in the region involved in drafting the agreement, the plan also signaled that the government recognized the dire outlook for salmon and steelhead species – some of which have already gone extinct – and that urgent action, in addition to what tribes and others have already been doing, is needed.

JANUARY 2024 | CONFEDERATED UMATILLA JOURNAL

5

Project Salmon Claus delivers Christmas along the Columbia

By NIKA BARTOO-SMITH Underscore News + ICT HOOD RIVER – For 11 years, Officer Jerrod Daniel has delivered gifts to children living at tribal fishing sites along the Columbia River. For some children there, Salmon Claus delivers the only Christmas gifts they receive.

While helping put a smile on people’s faces never gets old, one story in particular stands out for Daniel.

During a long day of delivering gifts along the river, he met a young girl, about 8 years old. He handed her a wrapped present and unlike many of the children around her, she did not open it right away.

When Daniel asked her why, she smiled and said, “I’m going to save it so I have something to open on Christmas.”

Daniel, an officer with the Columbia River Inter-Tribal Police Department, started Project Salmon Claus in 2012, setting out a few donation boxes at the organization’s Hood River office that were quickly filled. Eleven years later, the project has grown to serve hundreds of families living at in-lieu sites along the Columbia River each year.

“We’re serving the community out here on the river and it’s a really important thing to do,” Daniel said.

Project Salmon Claus When Daniel started

Project

Salmon Claus in 2012, he knew he wanted to bring gifts to children and families at the in lieu sites up and down the Columbia River. A small operation at first, most of the donations came from other CRITFC police officers. During their limited spare time, Daniel and a crew of his coworkers would don Santa hats and light-up necklaces and bring gifts to families.

With a small crew visiting more than a dozen sites — including Celilo, Maryhill, Lone Pine, Dallesport, Lyle and others — the gift giving took days. But it was always worth it to go to the families, instead of making them travel to a pickup location.

“One of the nice things about Salmon Claus is we are able to get out to families that might not be able to get out to the reservation or in town,” Daniel said. “We’ve made it possible for these families to stay at the sites and wait for us.”

In 2013, the year after Daniel started Project Salmon Claus, the Columbia River Inter-Tribal Fish Commission (CRITFC) got involved through the leadership of Charlie Quaempts, a citizen of the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation.

Now a commission liaison for CRITFC, Quaempts has worked for the organization for 19 years.

With more hands to wrap and pass out gifts, plus more support for fundraising and collecting donations, Project Salmon Claus is able to give

CRITPD Officer James Allman, dressed as Salmon Claus, hands out presents to a group of children at one of the in-lieu fishing sites along the Columbia River.

COLUMBIA RIVER INTER-TRIBAL FISH COMMISSION | COURTESY

to more families.

“Now, we are able to get it all done in one day and serve hundreds of families,” Daniel said. “I’m seeing

the smiles on our staff’s faces and how the Salmon Claus events are impacting them. And that to me is really a good feeling.”

JOIN US IN 2024

48-Hour Ticket Pre-Sale!

EXCLUSIVELY for active Club Wild Members

EENT FRVE E

SOLD OUT HINDER IN CONCERT

RED ZONE PARTY

February 18 • Rivers Event Center

February 11 • Rivers Event Center

Tickets on sale now

COMEDIAN CRAIG FERGUSON

BELLAMY BROTHERS IN CONCERT

Tickets on sale now

Tickets on sale January 19

January 19 • Rivers Event Center

Tickets on sale now

PURPLE XPERIENCE

EENT FRVE E 29TH ANNIVERSARY FIREWORKS March 9

March 14 • Rivers Event Center

May 4 • Rivers Event Center

28TH ANNUAL POW WOW • July 5–7 • FREE & Open to Public INDIGENOUS MARKETPLACE • October 11–12 • Rivers Event Center • FREE & Open to Public HOLIDAY BAZAAR • November 30 • Rivers Event Center • FREE & Open to Public Plus MORE events to come! Watch for special announcements!

Visit wildhorseresort.com to purchase tickets or more entertainment information

CASINO • HOTEL • GOLF • CINEPLEX • RV MUSEUM • DINING • TRAVEL PLAZA • FUNPLEX 800.654.9453 • PENDLETON, OR • I-84, EXIT 216 • wildhorseresort.com • Owned and operated by CTUIR Management reserves all rights to alter, suspend or withdraw promotions/offers at any time.

CAT13551-5

6

CONFEDERATED UMATILLA JOURNAL | JANUARY 2024

Fuel up this

New Year!

Shop January 1–31 and enter to win a

$500 Arrowhead Gas Card!

A FFORDABLE F AM ILY E YE WE AR Drawing Friday, February 2 Winner announced on Arrowhead’s Facebook Page.

SAVE 5¢ WITH ARROWHEAD’S REWARDS ON THE REZ PROGRAM! Sign up inside Arrowhead Travel Plaza!

Check our daily gas prices at arrowheadtravelplaza.com

LENSES with purchase of Ray•Ban Frames

541.276.8080 • PENDLETON, OR • I - 84, Exit 216

NEXT TO WILDHORSE RESORT & CASINO Must be 18 or older to enter drawing. Management reserves the right to alter, suspend or withdraw offer/promotion at any time.

Owned and operated by the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation.

$100 OFF

CAT13551-2

Eastern Oregon’s ONLY Same-Day Service for Prescription Lenses! On-Site Optical Lab! If you are using insurance, please ask for details!

541-567-3790 298 E Gladys Ave Hermiston, Oregon www.affordablefamilyeyewear.com

Se Habla Español Open Monday to Saturday Most insurances accepted: MODA, Regence, Pacific Source & Many More! *Excludes Maui Jim, WileyX, Oakley and special order lenses and frames. Monthly sale cannot be combined with other in-store offers or promotions. Expires 1/31/24.

JANUARY 2024 | CONFEDERATED UMATILLA JOURNAL

7

TERO EXPECTS BUSY 2024 CONSTRUCTION SEASON

The 2024 construction season will be a busy year for the Tribal Employment Rights Office (TERO) with several Tribal and State projects that provide jobs paying prevailing wages, offer great benefits, and an opportunity to expand your experience and skills.

Projects under the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) in 2024 will be held throughout the MOU area which extend approximately 60 miles from the Umatilla Indian Reservation boundary.

the unions. TERO also can produce Tribal Project Labor Agreements (TPLA) for projects involving contractor’s signatory with the building trades so that TERO workers can acquire substantial apprenticeship hours to reach the journeyman level.

Yellowhawk Tribal Health Center (YTHC) starts the New Year with an expansion project on the west side, which will provide accessibility for elders and more offices. Start up is mid-January with completion slated in September.

ADA Curb Ramps improvements have been occurring in several small eastern Oregon communities. The Umatilla/Morrow County ADA Ramps project will go to bid this summer for the two-year project. A project at exit 216 of I-84 near the CTUIR Arrowhead Truck Plaza will see major improvements for safety, lighting and chain up areas for truckers.

The training has been supported by Indian owned businesses certified by TERO. Alden Plumbing & HVAC of Walla Walla, Washington, and Van Sohappy of Columbia Plateau Electric LLC have done presentations to the trainees. Alden is looking for plumbing and HVAC apprentices.

BNBuilders of Seattle is the general contractor and involved in the design/build of the project. They are coordinating with TERO on potential workers needed throughout different phases of construction, and engaging TERO-certified Indian owned businesses for subcontracting opportunities.

Workers of various crafts will perform work related to concrete, masonry, steel, rough/finish carpentry, roofing, metal wall panels, insulation, glazing, flooring, painting, earthwork, utilities, asphalt, concrete paving, landscaping, plumbing, HVAC and electrical.

Mission Market will see solar placed on the canopy covering the gas pumps. This project has started and will be a smaller project.

A Safe Route to Schools project is expected to start in April 2024.

SPONSORS & SUPPORTERS

TERO has been conducting pre-apprenticeship construction training under a Ready For Oregon grant from the Bureau of Labor & Industries (BOLI). The 7-week orientation to the construction industry is designed for trainees to ‘explore’ opportunities in the various building trades.

Eight trainees graduated Nov. 17 from the first round of training. Two intend to sign up with the Teamsters Union while one trainee found welding interesting and may sign with the Ironworkers Union. TERO is on its second round of training with six trainees.

The TERO-BOLI training does not certify trainees to be an operator, electrician, carpenter, etc. but simply exposes them to the various building trades, expectations, wages, and benefits one can derive from

The upcoming construction season is near. To be eligible for dispatch by the TERO office you’ll need to do the following: • register with TERO by filling out a TERO Skills Bank Survey for 2024.

• continue to check in each week to let us know you’re seeking employment.

• if dispatched you’ll need to fill out the company application and pass a drug test.

• TERO can assist with tools, fuel, hi-viz gear, hardhats, and safety glasses to get you started.

Please contact the TERO office at 541-429-7506 weekdays from 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Or email TEROstaff@ctuir.org.

TERO Skills Bank Survey 2024

TERO recognizes the following for their valuable sponsorship and support of the BOLI Ready for Oregon pre-apprenticeship construction training program.

If you’re interested in working on TERO projects in 2024 please fill out the 2024 TERO Skills Bank Survey to be eligible for dispatch. Be sure to have appropriate identification.

Surveys are available at the TERO office lobby, second floor of the Nixyaawii Governance Building (south wing), or contact Natasha Watchman, TERO Assistant, at 541-429-7506.

Alden Plumbing & HVAC – Kristina & Kirk Alden, Owners

BOLI Ready For Oregon Training

PNW Carpenters Union – Brian Lemke, Representative

The third cycle of pre-apprenticeship construction training will be mid-February 2024. If you are interested in this 7-week course please contact Michelle Bratlie, TERO Apprenticeship Training Coordinator, at 541-429-7153 or via email michellebratlie@ctuir.org.

Priority is given to members of CTUIR and other federally recognized tribes. Stipends are offered each week. Training sessions are four days per week, held at NGC or the Food Distribution Building located at south Coyote Business Park.

A certificate from BOLI is awarded to those completing the training. TERO will facilitate trainees completing the training to engage with contractors and building trade unions to advance their career in construction.

Caterpillar Inc. – Nate Hurn, CAT Simulators

Chain Up Permits

Bureau of Labor Industries – Ready for Oregon grant Sarah Coomey, Susan Erickson, Phillip Karagas, Katrina Johnson, Karlee Rodriguez.

Columbia Plateau Electric LLC – Van Sohappy, Owner International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) – Geoff Arends Ironworkers Union – Mike Alldritt, Local 29 Laborers International Union of North America (LIUNA) – Larry Chamberlin and Jani Turner Marathon Petroleum Foundation – VJ Smith, Welding Simulator/Tools Norco Industrial (Pendleton) – Sean Rooney & Scott McAllister Teamsters Union – Ricardo Lopez, Jr., Ryan Roberts, Ashlen Bronson, AGC/Training Center Tum A Lum Lumber Co. – Shane Rinehart Union Pacific Railroad – Carrie Wetter, Talent Acquisition Wildhorse Resort & Casino Security – Stuart Roberts, Doyle Woods

TERO issues five (5) chain up permits for I84 (exit 216 to Hildegard) and the Wildhorse/Arrowhead resort properties. If you are interested contact the TERO office at 5410-429-7056.

Memorandum of Understanding As two sovereigns the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation (CTUIR) Tribal Employment Rights Office (TERO) and the State of Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) entered into an agreement covering the applicability and enforcement of Indian preference on federal-aid highway and bridge construction projects.

This MOU has been in effect since March 10, 1994. CTUIR TERO had been the only federally recognized Indian Tribe to have an agreement that recognizes federal Indian preference laws ‘on or near’ an Indian reservation. Two other Oregon Tribes have MOU’s (Warm Springs, Grand Ronde) modeled after the CTUIR TERO MOU. TERO is a regulatory agency of CTUIR responsible for the application and enforcement of the MOU with ODOT. TERO’s legal responsibility is to dispatch workers on ODOT projects to meet TERO hiring goals, negotiate compliance agreements with contractors, ensure compliance by conducting onsite checks, and collect TERO fees for programmatic functions.

TERO operates under the TERO Code and regulations governing the administration and management of the TERO program.

CONFEDERATED UMATILLA JOURNAL | JANUARY 2024

8

NPS to collaborate with tribes on study of Indigenous history Theme study on Indian Reorganization Period will help identify important places and events as part of broader effort to ensure Interior Department tells a more complete story of America WASHINGTON — Secretary of the Interior Deb Haaland has announced that the National Park Service will collaborate with tribes across the nation on a new theme study that will focus on the Indian Reorganization Period to help broaden the understanding of an important chapter in American history.

A theme study provides a national historic context for specific topics in American history or prehistory, as well as evaluation guidance and a list of properties for study as possible future National Historic Landmarks. This theme study builds on the Federal Indian Boarding School Initiative and other efforts by the Department of the Interior to ensure that Native American history is recognized as American history.

“Native American history is American history, and it should be told by Indigenous peoples. The stories we share inform not just our present but the future world we will pass on to the next generation of leaders. They help define us,” said Haaland in remarks at the 2023 White House Tribal Nations Summit. “I am grateful that the National Park Service will work closely on this study with Native communities to ensure that their stories, perspectives and Indigenous knowledge are a key part of this work.”

While injustices and the continued implementation of assimilation policies persisted in many Indigenous communities, during the Indian Reorganization Period (1934-1950) the country saw a greater appreciation for American Indian culture, more concern given to American Indian self-determination and self-government, and movement beginning to develop more economic opportunity on tribal lands.

“We will work together with tribes through

WATCHMAN CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

C T U I R Department of Education State-Tribal Education Partnership professional development grant and 2007-09 at the Higher Lindsey X. Watchman Education Scholarship and Adult Vocational Training Program.

As WFD director, his duties include developing a visual career pathway/roadmap for tribal members with various interests and skills, enhancing cross-department and program communication as part of a comprehensive referral management system and enhancing external training partnerships with tribal, local, county and state workforce development initiatives.

“For example, CTUIR recently was awarded a $2 million grant for drone apprenticeships, and

National Park Service Director Chuck Sams, Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation member, speaks with Secretary of the Interior Deb Haaland in front of the Lincoln Memorial in this December 2021 photo. DEB HAALAND | COURTESY

rigorous study and collaborative work in interpreting and preserving important chapters in American history, uplifting valuable perspective and strengthening the National Park Service’s role as America’s storyteller,” NPS Director Chuck Sams said. Sams is a Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation member.

The National Park Foundation is contributing to the launch of the study, which will be prepared with the guidance and expertise of external partners, including tribal leaders, academics and other experts in the field. Early work for the study will kick-off in the new year and NPS will begin outreach to tribes in the coming months.

“The Foundation is pleased to support this collaborative initiative between the National Park Service and tribes across the country. The study will contribute to a more complete understanding of our shared heritage, including the historical perspectives of tribes central to this period in American history,” said Will Shafroth, president

we’ll be partnering with Cayuse Native Solutions, Blue Mountain Community College and the unmanned aerial system range at the Pendleton airport,” he said.

Watchman will also implement what past and current managers have determined the WFD is to become – a one-stop center. That will include creating cross-program intake forms, case managing clients along with tracking data and reporting efforts to the Board as well as state and federal grantors.

“My entire life, I have been a staunch advocate for tribal, as well as individual sovereignty, which means each person self-determines their future and attempts to be self-sufficient in its pursuit and sustainability,” he said. “We all often need help to strategically plan for our future, instead of living day-to-day and paycheck-to-paycheck. My goal is to enhance tribal member confidence in their abilities to do what they want, and to work where they want.”

Watchman works in the Administration wing of the Nixyáawii Governance Center but expects to move in 2024 to the old Administration Building at the July Grounds when the WFD programs move into the facility.

and CEO, National Park Foundation.

Previous studies by the NPS and its partners have helped provide national historic context for specific topics in American history or prehistory.

These studies educate the public about the nation’s heritage and provide a foundation to inform additional NPS or partner-driven work to preserve important and often under-told stories, such as the history associated with the Civil Rights and labor movements.

The National Register of Historic Places is the nation’s inventory of properties deemed to be central to its history and worthy of recognition and preservation. It includes more than 98,000 entries, incorporating more than 1.8 million individual buildings and sites representing local, state or nationally significant people, places and events.

Just over 2,600 of these properties are National Historic Landmarks, designated by the Secretary of the Interior as representing the highest level of national significance.

JANUARY 2024 | CONFEDERATED UMATILLA JOURNAL

9

DOI announces final rule for NAGPRA implementation WASHINGTON – The Department of the Interior has announced a final rule to revise regulations that implement the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA).

These regulations provide systematic processes for returning Native American human remains, funerary objects, sacred objects, or objects of cultural patrimony to lineal descendants, tribes, and Native Hawaiian organizations (NHOs).

The revised regulations streamline requirements for museums and federal agencies to inventory and identify Native American human remains and cultural items in their collections.

“The Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act is an essential tool for the safe return of sacred objects to the communities from which they were stolen. Among the updates we are implementing are critical steps to strengthen the authority and role of Indigenous communities in the repatriation process,” said DOI Secretary Deb Haaland. “Finalizing these changes is an important part of laying the groundwork for the healing of our people.”

Enacted in 1990, NAGPRA, which is administered by the National Park Service, requires museums and federal agencies to identify Native American human remains, funerary items, and

objects of cultural significance in their collections and collaborate with Indian tribes and Native Hawaiian organizations to repatriate them.

“NAGPRA is an important law that helps us heal from some of the more painful times in our past by empowering Tribes to protect what is sacred to them. These changes to the department’s NAGPRA regulations are long overdue and will strengthen our ability to enforce the law and help Tribes in the return of ancestors and sacred cultural objects,” said Assistant Secretary for Indian Affairs Bryan Newland.

“The new NAGPRA final rule is the result of many months of nation-to-nation consultation, collaboration across the department and federal family. It represents an all-of-government approach to respecting and strengthening our Indigenous connections, enhancing our nation-to-nation relationships, and fully upholding our trust and treaty responsibilities,” said Assistant Secretary for Fish and Wildlife and Parks Shannon Estenoz.

In October 2022, the Interior Department published a proposed rule for public comment and received 181 individual submissions that yielded over 1,800 specific comments.

The final regulations incorporate input from all comments, especially those from tribes and NHOs to the maximum extent possible.

Did you know?

In 2015, the CTUIR released Cáw Pawá Láakni, They Are Not Forgotten: Sahaptian Place Names Atlas of the Cayuse, Umatilla, and Walla Walla. The book is a wealth of knowledge about the traditional places of the Tribes of the CTUIR. The book is available for sale at Tamástslikt or on-line.

FREIGHT HAULING • STORAGE TANKS • FUEL

Convenient locations to serve you: Walla Walla, WA 1205 N. 11th 509-527-3400

LaGrande, OR 804 21st Street 541-963-4932

We Feature Chevron Lubricants

Pendleton, OR 513 S.W. 6th 541-276-3361

1-800-572-8900 • www.byrnesoil.com

Museum preservationists identify and prepare items for return to tribal communities. SAN DIEGO MUSEUM OF US | COURTESY

The final rule makes a number of changes, including: • Strengthening the authority and role of tribes and NHOs in the repatriation process by requiring deference to the Indigenous knowledge of lineal descendants, tribes and NHOs. • Requiring museums and federal agencies to obtain free, prior and informed consent from lineal descendants, tribes or NHOs before allowing any exhibition of, access to, or research on human remains or cultural items.

• Eliminating the category “culturally unidentifiable human remains” and resetting the

requirements for cultural affiliation to better align the regulations with congressional intent.

• Increasing transparency and reporting of holdings or collections and shedding light on collections currently unreported under the existing regulation.

• Requiring museums and federal agencies to consult and update inventories of human remains and associated funerary objects within five years of this final rule.

Secretary Haaland made the announcements in remarks at the 2023 White House Tribal Nations Summit Dec. 6.

CONFEDERATED UMATILLA JOURNAL | JANUARY 2024

10

MORE FUN MORE OFTEN!

Small forestland owners can improve conditions for fish on their forestlands by using the SFISH Program to replace existing road-stream crossings in fish-bearing streams. ODF | COURTESY

TWO Paper & Machine Specials!

WIN up to $800 per game!

Saturday, January 6 Sunday, January 21 Doors Open 11am • Warm-Ups 2pm Main Session 2:30pm Visit wildhorseresort.com for more information.

Management reserves all rights to alter, suspend or withdraw promotions/offers at any time.

800.654.9453 • PENDLETON, OR wildhorseresort.com

LEW-7UP-1-2024

LEW-7UP-1-2024

OFFER EXPIRES 1-31-2024

OFFER EXPIRES 1-31-2024

ODF grant program accepting apps for stream habitat, fish passage projects SALEM – The Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) is accepting grant applications for the new Small Forestland Investment in Stream Habitat (SFISH) Program.

“Our goal is to improve fish habitat and water quality, while helping small forestland owners fix their roads which are essential for the management of their forestlands,” said SFISH program coordinator Josh Hanson.

The SFISH Program is a grant program established to help small forestland owners (SFOs) with road improvement projects that increase fish habitat connectivity or minimize sediment delivery to streams.

“The grant program will provide more than $6 million to fund the replacement of culverts or fords in fish streams, repair abandoned roads, and fix roads with perched fill that pose a significant hazard to fishbearing streams,” said Hanson. “The program can fund 100% of the cost of a project, including project design and construction.”

SFISH is just one of the incentive programs developed and funded to help support landowners with the many changes to the Forest Practices

Act brought about by the landmark Private Forest Accord (PFA). The PFA provides better protection for aquatic wildlife and regulatory certainty for forestland owners. The legislation accompanying the PFA included establishing the Small Forestland Owner (SFO) Office to provide technical assistance, supporting services, and the management of incentives programs for SFOs. One of the programs managed by ODF’s SFO Office is the SFISH program.

The application process includes filling out an application form and completing a Road Condition Assessment.

“There is no deadline for applications,” said Hanson. “But to have your project considered for the first round of funding that is anticipated to occur in spring 2024, applications should be submitted as soon as possible.”

Visit ODF’s SFISH Program webpage to learn more about eligibility requirements and how to apply to have your project assessed and placed on a ranking list for funding. You can also reach out to your local ODF forester to learn more about the SFISH Program.

Whitman Mission National Historic Site to host ‘Covenant of the Salmon People’ film screening WALLA WALLA, Wash. – Whitman Mission National Historic Site will host a film screening of the documentary “Covenant of the Salmon People” on Saturday, Jan. 20 at 1 p.m. The event is free to the public and no reservations are required.

“Covenant of the Salmon People” is a 60-minute portrait of the Nez Perce Tribe’s sacred relationship with the Chinook salmon and the challenges that they face in maintaining the

salmon populations. The screening will be followed by a question and answer session.

Whitman Mission National Historic Site is located 8 miles west of Walla Walla, WA, on Whitman Mission Road. Park admission is free.

For more information, please contact Whitman Mission National Historic Site at 509-522-6360, or visit www. nps.gov/whmi.

JANUARY 2024 | CONFEDERATED UMATILLA JOURNAL

11

Tickets on sale now for annual Daddy Daughter Dance PENDLETON – The 19th annual Daddy Daughter Dance will swing into the Pendleton Convention Center (PCC) on Saturday, Feb. 10 featuring popular activities and an expanded ticket capacity.

After years of sell-out events with 675 dancers, Pendleton Parks and Recreation has expanded the ticket numbers this year to 700.

Recreation Supervisor Jonathan Bullard said the increased capacity is directly linked to how often the event sells out.

“The bulk of the tickets are sold out in the first three weeks,” Bullard said. “People love it. This is a major event for Pendleton, and we want to let as many people participate as possible.”

In addition to the increased capacity, another change this year is the location to purchase and pick up tickets. Tickets will continue to be available online in the same format as past years, but in-person ticket sales and pick-up of physical tickets will happen at the Pendleton Recreation Center (PRC), 510 Dorion Ave., Pendleton, instead of the Pendleton Parks and Recreation office.

Tickets are $25 per person and may be purchased online or in person at the PRC. Tickets will go on sale Jan. 3, and physical tickets will be available for pick up beginning Feb. 1.

This year’s theme is black and gold. The event will again include a DJ, decorations, random drawings, gifts at the door, a posed photo, basic hors d’oeuvres and refreshments. The photo studio will open at 3 p.m. and the main hall opens at 6 p.m.

The Daddy Daughter Dance is open to father figures and daughters, age kindergarten and up.

For more information about the Daddy Daughter Dance, call the PRC office at 541-966-0228. For more information about Pendleton Parks and Recreation programs, visit https://pendletonparksandrec. com/parksrec/page/family-events

Nixyáawii Community School leaders are considering changes to its student cell phone policy after a recent fight was sparked by cyber-bullying. CUJ | FILE PHOTO

NCS fight prompts development of new rules

By CHRIS AADLAND Reporter MISSION – Nixyáawii Community School leaders are considering changes to its student cell phone policy after a recent fight – the first in the school’s five-year history, according to its principal – was sparked by cyber-bullying.

The mid-December incident, which was recorded and shared on social media, according to one parent whose child was involved, raised questions from some about what the school is doing, or should be doing, to ensure students feel safe and that administrators and staff are taking proactive steps to prevent incidents like major fights or bullying.

Discussions started when parents of some of the students involved – the mother of a student who was attacked and hurt, and the father of the two students who were arrested for their alleged participation in the fight and spent the weekend in jail – presented testimony during the public comment portion of the Dec. 18 NCS School Board meeting.

Social media posts and cyber bullying sparked the fight and came amid ongoing cell phone use problems, which the school will begin to address in the coming weeks through a new policy, NCS Principal Ryan Heinrich said in an interview.

“This was our first fight in five years, so it does not happen very

often,” he said. “Just the way it did was weird.”

It also coincidentally occurred before, but on the same day, the school hosted Brooks Gibbs, an anti-bullying presenter to speak to its students, he said. Because of the incident earlier in the day, Heinrich said Gibbs was asked to spend extra time speaking about cyber bullying and how to respond to it.

Gibbs, who has also authored books about bullying and emotional resilience, also spoke at Pendleton High School on Dec. 13 and two other local schools at the request of the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation (CTUIR), which hired him.

The two parents who spoke in front of the school board said the incident raised questions about whether the school needed more staff to monitor students and de-escalate situations that could lead to fights and what steps could be taken so all students feel safe at school and comfortable with reaching out to school staff with concerns, like bullying.

They also suggested that they believed student access to their cell phones in school and social media disagreements were a factor in the incident that needed to be addressed so it doesn’t fuel future confrontations.

“This is hard. I still feel tired and sad right now,” the father of two of the students involved said at the

meeting. “I just hope... this doesn’t happen again.”

The fight was then discussed further in an executive session, a meeting closed to the press and public.

“We appreciated you coming to us and we will take your recommendations, and gather them, and I’m sure we’ll discuss further,” NCS School Board Chair Ashley Picard said at the meeting after the parents’ comments.

While it was the first fight in the school’s history, Heinrich said, it illustrated the need to address cell phone use during the school day and the distractions it causes. He said he already takes phones away as punishment for breaking rules or being tardy and that is considered the school’s “biggest punishment.”

“The worst punishment for a kid is to lose their phone for a day,” Heinrich said.

Although he said it would be impractical to monitor individual phones and social media activity for bullying or to foresee potential conflicts, stricter rules on when and where phones can be used during the school day were necessary.

A new policy developed with input from staff, with support from the school board, is expected to be unveiled in the coming weeks, Heinrich said.

12

CONFEDERATED UMATILLA JOURNAL | JANUARY 2024

Something for everyone & everything’s usable

AIRPORT ANTIQUES & THE FURNITURE LADY • Antique Furniture • Depression Glass • Kitchenware • Collectibles • Vintage Art • Hardware • Clothing January Special 15% Off - Gold & Silver colored items

Misala Peo-Nelson, Umatilla/Nez Perce, far right, joined her fellow Native American Women Warrior (NAWW) color guards at the recent White House Tribal Nations Summit to present and retire the colors during the event.

The Native American Women Warriors Association (NAWW) is a nonprofit veterans’ organization dedicated to empowering Native women veterans. NAWW recognizes women across all tribes and all branches who have served in the U.S. military.

This veteran organization assists fellow Native women veterans with recovery, military transition, posttraumatic stress disorder support, and other emotional and mental trauma that may have developed during their service. NAWW aims to be a resource for veterans and provide support to one another and the greater community.

Members of NAWW travel the United States performing color guard and powwow ceremonies to honor the legacy of Native American veterans. NAWW is possible because of the generosity of small, tax-deductible donations. For more information or to donate to NAWW, visit https://nawwassociation.com.

MISALA PEO-NELSON | COURTESY

Fusion Fitness WITH WILLA & CHRIS

Scan the QR code!

1816 NW 51st ST • PENDLETON 541-278-0141 • 888-222-2397

www.pendletonfurniturelady.com • OPEN TUESDAY - FRIDAY 10:30-6:00 • Watch our website and Facebook page for monthly and special sales!

Specializing in furniture repair & restoration

MON & WED 5:30 - 6:30 PM NIXYAAWII COMMUNITY SCHOOL The first half is a 30 minute Tabata class, which is a form of High-Intensity Interval Training where the individual performs as many reps as possible using various weighted items. The last half is guided postures and Yoga Nidra for a total body relaxation.

Class information: Willa Wallace or Chris Schwartz via text or call 541.429.0444 For Yellowhawk information contact Leah at 541.240.8729

HOSTED BY GOOD HEALTH & WELLNESS IN INDIAN COUNTRY

JANUARY 2024 | CONFEDERATED UMATILLA JOURNAL

13

Until taxpayers file their 2022 return, the Oregon Department of Revenue can’t calculate their kicker. Taxpayers must file their 2022 return before filing for 2023 and claiming the kicker.

Oregon Department of Revenue Kicker advice SALEM – Now that the excitement of the gift-giving season has come to a close, many Oregonians’ thoughts will turn to the anticipation of something bigger—claiming their share of the state’s all-time record $5.6 billion kicker tax credit.

Taxpayers who filed a 2022 Oregon income tax return are set to claim their kickers on their 2023 returns in 2024.

For those who dread tax season, the Oregon Department of Revenue says there’s no reason to let tax season make you sweat. Taking a few steps in the coming weeks can make preparing your 2023 tax return easier in 2024.

“Most people don’t want to think about their taxes until it’s time to fill out their returns,” said ODR’s Megan Denison. “But doing a few simple things in the weeks before tax season can make filling out your return and filing on time less stressful.”

Taxpayers hoping to claim their share of the kicker in 2024 should ensure they have filed a 2022 return.

The department received more than 2.2 million 2022 tax returns so most taxpayers have done that, but for those who haven’t, filing a 2022 tax return should be their first priority.

Electronic filing is closed until late January so taxpayers who still need to file a 2022 return will need to either download and use a paper form or wait until electronic filing reopens.

“Until taxpayers file their 2022 return, the department can’t calculate their kicker. So make sure you file your 2022 return before you file your 2023 return claiming your kicker,” Denison said.

Next, view your account information online. Taxpayers can ensure their information is current at Revenue Online, the state’s online tax

What’s my kicker?

Scan the QR with your smart phone camera to visit the Oregon Department of Revenue and find out.

portal. While there, taxpayers can use the “What’s My Kicker” calculator, view their 1099-G (available by Jan. 31) and verify any estimated tax payments they’ve made.

Then gather and organize your tax records. Organized tax records make preparing a complete and accurate tax return easier and help avoid errors. Wait to file until you have all your tax records, including: • Forms W-2 from employer(s); • Forms 1099 from banks, issuing agencies and other payers including unemployment compensation, dividends, distributions from a pension, annuity, retirement plan or other non-employee compensation; • Forms 1099-K, 1099-MISC, 1099NEC or other income statement if you worked in the gig economy.

Next, use a bank account to speed tax refunds with direct deposit. File electronically, choose direct deposit and you will get a refund faster.

Information is available at this IRS website.

Finally, choose a reputable tax return preparer. This is important because taxpayers are responsible for all the information on their returns, no matter who prepares it for them. The Oregon Board of Tax Practitioners offers a Licensee Lookup website. The IRS has a website with information.

Denison also pointed out that free help filing a return is available for those who need it.

To get tax forms, check the status of your refund, or make tax payments, visit www.oregon.gov/dor or email questions.dor@oregon.gov.

You also can call 1-800-356-4222 tollfree from an Oregon prefix (English or Spanish) or 503-378-4988 in Salem and outside Oregon. For TTY (hearing- or speech-impaired), relay calls are accepted.

14

CONFEDERATED UMATILLA JOURNAL | JANUARY 2024

JANUARY 2024 | CONFEDERATED UMATILLA JOURNAL

SUMMIT CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

More tribal control The prominent 3,500-foot treeless, shrubsteppe mountain sits near the Tri-Cities and is part of the Hanford Reach National Monument.

It is currently managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and owned by the DOE. But for thousands of years before federal control, it was a place where the region’s tribes gathered medicine and First Foods and was considered a culturally and religiously important location, tribal elder Armand Minthorn told Northwest Public Broadcasting in December.

“Our history goes back 13,000 years, and this is 2023, and we can still tell what happened 13,000 years ago on Laliik,” he told NWPB. “All of our oral histories from our old people are similar — culturally, Laliik is sacred. Religiously, Laliik is sacred. It’s a sacred mountain and all of the tribes share and have said many times that Laliik is a sacred site.”

And now, as the federal government has been looking to open it up for public access, tribes are anticipating a more prominent role in determining how it’s protected and being guaranteed improved access to the mountain to conduct ceremonies and exercise other treaty rights.

The MOU, according to a Dec. 6 press release announcing the agreement, originated from discussions between the federal government and tribal leaders.

“We heard tribal perspectives and we agree on the importance of continued collaboration to incorporate tribal knowledge and expertise in future stewardship of this important area of the Hanford Site,” DOE Office of Environmental Management Senior Advisor William “Ike”

White said.

However, the document is only a commitment to co-manage the land with tribes that lays out a broad framework of the partnership. The next steps will include a team of federal officials and tribes working to negotiate the specific co-management details.

In a press release endorsing the move, Sen. Patty Murray, D-WA, said the federal government recognizing the significance of the mountain to area tribes was “long overdue” and that “it was a step in the right direction,” adding that she was appreciative of the steps the Biden administration had taken to support and respect tribal sovereignty and self-determination.

“I look forward to continuing this conversation and hearing further details from tribal leaders,” she said in her statement. “The federal government must collaborate closely with tribes on comanagement plans, educate the public on its full history, and incorporate tribal knowledge in its stewardship.”

A busy gathering The early December summit also produced other developments beyond the Laliik news.

Those included issues like the tribe’s proposed changes to its Gaming Revenue Allocation Plan, salmon recovery efforts, legislative proposals related to a major Walla Walla River Basin management plan that CTUIR is a partner in, Umatilla Basin water rights settlement progress and a proposed casino development in the TriCities from the Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation that the CTUIR opposes.

Ashley said they also got some one-on-one time with CTUIR tribal member and National Park Director Chuck Sams in his office.

He said he brought up unanswered questions about CTUIR hunting rights in Yellowstone National Park and asked Sams whether his agency had an official position it could share. Although

15 Sams may be sympathetic, Ashley said Sams didn’t offer a position during the meeting.

Ultimately, the most impactful development from the meeting, Ashley said, was one that will affect all tribal nations. That was another memorandum of understanding Biden signed in front of the gathering’s attendees on Dec. 6 - an “Executive Order on Reforming Federal Funding and Support for Tribal Nations to Better Embrace Our Trust Responsibilities and Promote the Next Era of Tribal Self-Determination.”

“It was kind of a bomb dropped on everybody, so to speak, because nobody knew he was going to do that,” Ashley said.

That change will result, according to the federal government, in improvements to how the government gets funding to tribes. The reforms, the White House said, would expand tribal selfgovernance by giving tribes greater control in how to spend federal dollars and ensure “they Aaron Ashley are able to make their own decisions about where and how to meet the needs of their communities.”

“No less than for any other sovereign, tribal self-governance is about the fundamental right of a people to determine their own destiny and to prosper and flourish on their own terms,” the White House said in its announcement.

Ashley also said the summit was also a good opportunity for him to meet tribal leaders from other parts of the country and learn more about their priorities.

“It was a great opportunity to network and meet a lot of tribal leaders,” Ashley said. “[It was] really cool to be around all those people from different tribes. They were all very warm and welcoming.”

CONFEDERATED UMATILLA JOURNAL | JANUARY 2024

16

DNR BRIEFS Forest Service permits available

LETTERS Apologies for late vacancies notice

Attention CTUIR Housing Tenants

Greetings tribal members,

Dear tenant, This letter is to notify all tenants of CTUIR Housing Department’s Admissions & Occupancy Policies (AOP) improvements that are taking effect in 2024. We will be continuing Tenant Meetings in the month of January and invite you to attend.

The Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has annual permits for enrolled Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation tribal members to use on Washington Department of Natural Resources, Washington State Parks and Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife Lands for the exercise of treaty rights. Tribal members requesting these permits should come to DNR lobby. If you have any questions, contact Audie Huber, CTUIR DNR Intergovernmental Affairs at 541-429-7228.

I extend my apologies to you for the late notification of December’s Notice of Commission and Committee vacancies. A scheduling conflict prevented the timeliness for the reviews and selections to occur.

We have now scheduled upcoming work sessions for BOT appointments six months in advance (thank you Cami!). We will be back on a regular schedule which includes meeting the last Friday of each month to review the applications that are submitted on the prior Monday by 4 p.m. Also, if you know of anyone interested in applying but who does not have access to the internet or a computer, you (or they) can reach out to me at 541-429-7372 and I will assist in that regard.

Angler surveys posted

Sincerely, Roberta J. Wilson, BOT Secretary

The Forest Service provides the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Annual Northwest Forest passes for enrolled Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation members for the exercise of treaty rights under the Treaty of 1855 on Forest Service lands. These passes allow tribal members to use Forest Service operated recreation sites in Oregon and Washington where day use fees are required. The passes also allow pass holders to use Forest Service recreation facilities. The passes do not cover Sno-Parks in the winter season, group camping or cabin rentals and some concessionaire operated sites. These passes are available for tribal members at the DNR main desk. For questions, call Audie Huber, DNR Intergovernmental Affairs at 541-429-7228.

Washington State lands permits for tribal members

Angler survey boxes with catch information forms will be posted at Lake Hiyúumtipin (IndianLake), and on the Umatilla River and its tributaries.

Please report your catch (and comments, suggestions, etc.). Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation harvest monitors, enforcement and Lake Hiyúumtipin caretaker may also ask anglers for harvest information.

Cooperation from anglers is appreciated. Information gathered will be used to manage the fishery.

Permit Locations: Arrowhead Travel Plaza, Mission Market, and Indian Lake (during season)

Handmade by us, Home baked by you It’s Pizza Perfection - Love at 425 degrees

Start the New Year simple with the Perfect Pizza!

LARGE PERFECT $ PIZZA 12 .99 541-276-7272

613 SW EMIGRANT, PENDLETON Open Daily 10 a.m. - 8 p.m.

We gladly accept EBT.

Thank you CTUIR Hi CTUIR members and employees, I just want to thank you for the opportunity to be the Confederated Tribes of Umatilla Board of Trustees Chair for the past four years. I hope you all have a great 2024.

Thanks!

Kat Brigham, former BOT Chair

At this meeting, you will receive important information regarding the Housing Department’s modernized Admissions & Occupancy Policies.

Copies of the AOP will be provided to attendees. You will be required to sign a new lease at another time.

Please choose one of the following Wednesdays in January - 3, 10, 17, 24, 31 - at 4:30 p.m. at the senior center.

Thank you in advance for prioritizing this important meeting regarding your housing. We look forward to seeing you.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us at 541-429-7920.

Sincerely, Tanner Michael, CTUIR Housing Department Letters are published on a space available basis, in order of receipt.

Email letters to CUJ@ctuir.org

JANUARY 2024 | CONFEDERATED UMATILLA JOURNAL

17

18

CONFEDERATED UMATILLA JOURNAL | JANUARY 2024

CTUIR Board of Trustees Minutes •Nov. 27, 2023 PUBLIC SESSION 1. Kat Brigham, BOT Chair called the meeting to order at 9:00 AM. 2. Toby Patrick, BOT Member gave invocation. Kat Brigham, BOT Chair asked Aaron Ashley, BOT Vice-Chairman to step in as BOT Secretary.

3. Ascertainment of Quorum.

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

Quorum present.

4. Agenda Review. MOTION: Corinne Sams moves to approve agenda. Aaron Ashley seconds.

Discussion. Question. Motion carries 6-0-0.

5. Old Business: a. Official Polled Action: i. No. 23-058 Subject: Talking Points for Water Meeting at Milton-Freewater. MOTION: Corinne Sams moves to ratify Polled Action 23-058. Sandra Sampson seconds. Discussion.

Question. Motion carries 6-0-0. ii. No. 23-059 Subject: Common

Interest Privilege Agreement ICIPA) – Columbia River Treaty Tribes and CRITFC. MOTION: Sandra Sampson moves to ratify Polled Action 23-059. Corinne Sams seconds.

Discussion. Question. Motion carries 6-0-0.

6. New Business: a. Proposed Resolutions: Next resolution number is 23-101: i. Resolution No.23-101 Topic: Establishment of Veterans Committee.

RESOLVED, that the Board of Trustees hereby establishes the Veterans Committee; AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Veterans Committee shall be an advisory committee, governed by the Advisory Committee Code of the Confederated Tribes; AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the subject matter statement for the Veterans Committee shall be as follows: SUBJECT MATTER STATEMENT For the VETERANS COMMITTEE of the CONFEDERATED TRIBES OF THE UMATILLA INDIAN RESERVATION. Consistent with the Advisory Committee Code, the subject matter of the Veterans Committee shall be to provide policy advice to the Board of Trustees and CTUIR staff on the development and implementation of policy regarding advocacy

for Veterans, engagement and outreach with Veterans in the community including working with George St. Denis Post 140, American Legion Oregon whenever possible, and the development of support services for the wellbeing of Veterans. Consistent with the Advisory Committee Code, the Veterans Program of the Department of Children and Family Services shall work closely with, and provide support to, the Veterans Committee; AND BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED, that the Board of Trustees shall advertise the Veterans Committee positions and appoint members; MOTION: Lindsey Watchman moves to adopt Resolution 23-101. Corinne Sams seconds. Discussion. Question.

Motion carries 6-0-0.

Other Board Action Items: None.

BOT Travel or External Meeting Reports.

Kat Brigham, 10/19 Zoom meeting re: OR Tribes meeting on BOEM position.

Kat Brigham, 10/29-11/1 attended the WA Accord meeting.

Kat Brigham, 10/29-11/1 attended the 34th Annual WA Centennial Accord Lisa Ganuelas, 10/29-11/1 attend the WA Centennial Accord.

Corinne Sams, 11/21 Trail Blazer Native American Night at Portland.

MOTION: Corinne Sams moves to approve five travel reports. Lisa Ganuelas seconds. Discussion.

Question. Motion carries 6-0-0.

BOT Leave and Travel or Outside Meeting Requests.

Kat Brigham, personal leave on 11/6 all day.

Kat Brigham, personal leave from 11/13 to 17.

Lindsey Watchman, polled PL: 11/20 for 2 hrs; 11/21 for 2 hrs.; 11/24 for 3 hrs.

Lindsey Watchman, polled PL for 11/5 for 2.5 hrs.

Lisa Ganuelas, polled personal leave 11/20 from 1-4 PM. Sally Kosey, personal leave from 11/27-29.

Sandra Sampson, polled PL from 11/17-21 and 23 but changed to attend Zoom meetings.

Paul Rabb said he will check into outgoing BOT timesheet and let BOT know later.

MOTION: Corinne Sams moves to approve leave requests. Sandra Sampson seconds. Discussion.

Question. Motion carries 6-0-0.

JANUARY 2024 | CONFEDERATED UMATILLA JOURNAL

CTUIR Board of Trustees Minutes • Dec. 4, 2023 PUBLIC SESSION Ascertainment of Quorum.

BOT Present: Gary Burke, BOT Chairman; Aaron Ashley, ViceChairman; Raymond Huesties, Treasurer; Roberta Wilson, Secretary; Corinne Sams (departed at 11 AM for NOAA meeting), Toby Patrick, Member; Lisa Ganuelas, Member; Steve Hart, Member and, Alan Crawford General Council Chairman. Full quorum present.

Agenda Review. MOTION: Corinne Sams moves to approve agenda. Lisa Ganuelas seconds.

Discussion. Question. Motion carries 8-0-0.

Old Business: a. Official Polled Action. i. No. 23-060 Topic: Approve Funds for Employee Appreciation Banquet from Contingency Funds.MOTION: Corinne Sams moves to ratify Polled Action No. 23-060 Aaron Ashley seconds.

Motion carries 8-0-0.

6. New Business: Proposed Resolutions: a. Next resolution number is 23102: i. Resolution No. 23-102 Topic: USG Commitments

RESOLVED, by the Board of Trustees that the Chair of the Board is authorized to sign the Memorandum of Understanding memorializing the United States Government’s Commitments (USG Commitments) in support of the Columbia Basin Restoration Initiative (MOU), attached hereto as Exhibit 3C, which, along with Exhibits 1C and 2C, shall remain confidential until filed with the United States District Court for the District of Oregon; AND BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED, that the Board directs staff to regularly report back to the Board as the MOU and the USG Commitments are implemented.

Other Board Action Items: None. f. BOT Travel or External Meeting Reports. None. g. BOT Leave and Travel or Outside Meeting Requests.

None.

Scan the QR with your smart phone camera to see the Board of Trustees work calendar

19

CONFEDERATED UMATILLA JOURNAL | JANUARY 2024

20

Bonus Entries

WIN up to 1,000 Bonus Entries every Wednesday Swipe at an

to play.

Progressive Entry Multipliers

Play with your Club Wild Card to multiply your entries!

Thursday, January 11 • 10X Entries Thursday, January 25 • 20X Entries

Club Wild card must be properly inserted and accepted to earn entry multiplier from 5pm–Midnight.

The MEGA WIN prize amount INCREASES with each spin until won!

FPO

Up to $16,000 CASH & FREEPLAYup for grabs!

Fridays & Saturdays • 6–9pm

Saturday, January 27, 9:30pm

Mega Spin Finale

Spin the Mega Prize Wheel for your chance at a guaranteed

$5,000 CASH!

100 points per entry including Table Games, Keno, Bingo and Poker.

A FAN FAVORITE RETURNS!

Third Saturday of Each Month Registration 4:30–6pm • Tournament 6–8pm

WIN CASH & PRIZES! 1st Place

$1,000 Cash

Pick a pony and ride off with up to

2nd Place

$500 FreePlay!

$500 Cash 4th – 7th Place

Monday, January 15 Noon–4pm

3rd Place

$200 Cash $50 Cash

Must be actively playing with Club Wild card properly inserted and accepted to be eligible.

Management reserves all rights to alter, suspend or withdraw promotions/offers at any time.

CASINO • HOTEL • GOLF • CINEPLEX • RV MUSEUM • DINING • TRAVEL PLAZA • FUNPLEX

800.654.9453 • PENDLETON, OR • I-84, EXIT 216 • wildhorseresort.com • Owned and operated by CTUIR Management reserves all rights to alter, suspend or withdraw promotions/offers at any time.

CAT13551-1

CAT13508-1

®

JANUARY 2024 | CONFEDERATED UMATILLA JOURNAL

CONFEDERATED UMATILLA JOURNAL

Community JA NUA RY 2 024 | VOLUME 32 • ISSUE 1

Inaugural powwow slated for Feb. 23-25 PENDLETON – The Two Cultures One Community Committee and Nixyáawii Community Financial Services will host the inaugural Two Cultures One Community Powwow Feb. 23-25 at the Pendleton Convention Center, 1601 Westgate.

“The Two Cultures One Community Powwow is a largescale competition designed to harmonize Native American cultural heritage and traditions with the cowboy culture deeply rooted in our regional history,” committee officials said. “Everyone is welcome.

We are excited to share this unique platform for the convergence of cultural expressions, fostering understanding and appreciation for both Native American traditions and the cowboy way of life in our region.”

Committee officials said event hours are noon to 11 p.m. on Feb. 23, noon to midnight on Feb 24 and noon to 6 p.m. on Feb. 25. The event will occur regardless of weather, officials said.

Northern Cree is slated to be the host drum. The group has garnered awards and accolades for its music, including performing at the 59th Grammy Awards. The head emcee will be Ruben Littlehead, who is well known on the powwow circuit.

Dance, drum and special contests are on the agenda with payouts to be determined.

The Two Cultures One Community Committee consists of Chairman Pat Beard, Vice Chairman Fred Hill, Treasurer Kara Woolsey, Secretary Terri Carnes and Members Melinda Broncheau, Leona Enright, Lisa Ganuelas, Kellen Joseph, Kaeleen McGuire and Wil Phinney.

For more information, email TwoCulturesOneCommunity@ gmail.com.

Marcela Alcantar, left, and Cara Greene-Hoptowit discuss the intricacies of Indigenous culture ranging from North to South America during the Dec. 21 Indian New Year Celebration. Alcantar came to share her culture and observe the celebration at the CTUIR longhouse. She brought jewelry and ceramic figurines to gift the cooks. LEE GAVIN | CUJ

Dec. 21: Celebrating ‘Indian New Year’

By ANNA KING Northwest News Network MISSION – Wing dresses embellished with tiny shells jingle a bit as huge hugs are thrown between friends and relatives.

This is the day “the sun turns around” – winter solstice, Dec. 21.

But it’s also the so-called “Indian New Year” for many tribes across Washington, Oregon and Idaho.

At the longhouse in Mission, on the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation, around 200 people gather to ring in goodwill and high hopes for a plentiful and happy new year, as they honor the tribes’ reciprocal relationship with sacred First Foods.

Braiding her sons’ hair before the festivities begin is Kola Shippentower, 34.

“My two boys that do have long hair, I am usually the only one that braids their hair,” she said. “Being their mom, our boys’ hair is really special and so, with every braid, I usually say a prayer for them every morning as they go out in their day – whether to school or whatever the case may be. But for tonight – it’s preparing for the Indian New Year.”

Dinner for 200 Outside on a massive grill, Spring Chinook fillets roast and spit over the fire. In the kitchen, a dozen women and girls prepped foods of all kinds for the coming guests.

There is núsux (salmon), xáwš (roots), tmíš (chokecherries), wíwnu (huckleberries) and íwínat (wild meat). Then there are all the nontraditional foods to prepare: A giant belly of frybread dough, noodles and deer, ham, turkey, potatoes, potato salad, Jell-O salad, pies, cakes and cupcakes frosted and sprinkled.

This celebration is joyous but also bittersweet. Many elders who once brought joy and their hands’ work to this longhouse are no longer here.

“I really miss my grandma.

Everything about the longhouse was her favorite,” said Trinette Minthorn, one of the lead women in the kitchen, directing the work. “And NEW YEAR CONTINUED PAGE 6

CTUIR honors elders with special holiday luncheon

Lloyd Commander entertains the crowd during the elders’ luncheon Dec. 21, 2023. LEE GAVIN | CUJ

MISSION – The Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation (CTUIR) honored tribal elders with a Christmas luncheon on Dec. 21 inside the Wildhorse Resort & Casino’s Rivers Event Center.

Katrina Burnside, CTUIR Department of Children and Family Services elders coordinator, said more than 200 people attended the annual event.

“It’s held to enjoy everybody coming together, all the elders and then to have our own luncheon and just for everybody to visit and honor our elders,” she said. “It’s different from the one they have in September (CTUIR Elders Day) because that’s for the Northwest tribes; they all come together. So this one is for specifically for our tribal elders, for this tribe.”

Along with the noon meal, the luncheon featured

recognition of veterans, chiefs and the oldest male and female present as well as vendors, door prizes and music

by KCUW Operations Manager Anson Crane.

Also honored were members of the outgoing Nixyáawii Elders Advisory Committee – Chair Mary Halfmoon, Vice Chair Lorena Thompson and Secretary/Treasurer Susan Sheoships – who served the past two years in their respective roles.

Following lunch, elders re-elected Halfmoon as committee chair, Malvin Jamison as vice chair and Kathleen Elliot as secretary/treasurer.

The committee works alongside the DCFS to provide services, coordinate events and arrange travel for recreational, cultural and educational trips to CTUIR members who are 55 and older.

2

CONFEDERATED UMATILLA JOURNAL | JANUARY 2024

Nixyáawíi Winter Celebration contest winners Tiny Tot Girls: 1st Marrily A, 2nd Haily Heemsah, 3rd Charlie Heemsah

Teen Girls Traditional: 1st Kandis Whiteplume, 2nd Annie Payer, 3rd Dymon Say

Men Fancy/Grass : 1st Garian McDonald, 2nd Robert Tewawina Sr, 3rd Roland Morning Owl

Tiny Tot Boys: 1st Elijah OnePenne, 2nd Jon Adams, 3rd Timina Ellenwood

Teen Boys Grass/Fancy: 1st Ian Mitchell, 2nd Garian McDonald, 3rd Sonny Waegli

Men Traditional: 1st Andrew Williams, 2nd Bryan Adams, 3rd Rusty McCloud

Teen Boys Traditional: 1st Louis Allen, 2nd Darryl Whiteplume, 3rd Jayden Waegli

Prairie Chicken Special: Men 1st Eric Broncheau, Teen 1st Eli Bauer

Jr. Girls Jingle/Fancy: 1st Alexas Payer, 2nd Hayden Plume, 3rd Violet Adison Jr Girls Traditional: 1st Dazha Joseph, 2nd Gabriella Calvillo, 3rd Ramona Whiteplume Jr. Boys Grass/Fancy: 1st Jeremiah Wachumwah, 2nd Kayesh Walsey, 3rd Cameron OnePenne

Women Golden Age: 1st Charline Tillequot, 2nd Carla George, 3rd Carla Timentwa Men Golden Age: 1st Terry Heemsah Sr, 2nd Phil Allan, 3rd Brian George

Jr Boys Traditional: 1st Alex Allan, 2nd Bronson Treloar, 3rd Cayuse Jones

Women Fancy/Jingle: 1st Saria Greg, 2nd Josephine Penney, 3rd Teata Ellenwood

Teen Girls Jingle/Fancy: 1st Davi Jo, 2nd Abby Kordatzky, 3rd Ella Payne

Women Traditional: 1st Ramona Whiteplume, 2nd Jaden Leighton, 3rd Heaven Walsey

Two Man Hand Drum: 1st Yup & Yee, 2nd Andre Picard & Lee Whiteplume, 3rd Gilbert & Crew Drums: Howtme, Purple Rain, Cayuse, Dancing Eagle, Lighting Creek, The Shooter, Tomahawk, Status Creek, The Cousins, Wild Rose, Umatilla Intertribal, Amakay, Indian Nation – Photos by DALLAS DICK | CUJ

Junior Girls Traditional: 1st Dazha Joseph, 2nd Gabriella Calvillo, 3rd Ramona Whiteplume

Junior Girls Jingle/Fancy: 1st Alexas Payer, 2nd Hayden Plume, 3rd Violet Adison

Teen Girls Jingle/Fancy: 1st Davi Jo, 2nd Abby Kordatzky, 3rd Ella Payne

Teen Girls Traditional: 1st Kandis Whiteplume, 2nd Annie Payer, 3rd Dymon Say

Womens Golden Age: 1st Charline Tillequot, 2nd Carla George, 3rd Carla Timentwa

Womens Traditional: 1st Ramona Whiteplume, 2nd Jaden Leighton, 3rd Heaven Walsey

JANUARY 2024 | CONFEDERATED UMATILLA JOURNAL

3

Jr Boys Traditional: 1st Alex Allan, 2nd Bronson Treloar, 3rd Cayuse Jones

Teen Boys Traditional: 1st Louis Allen, 2nd Darryl Whiteplume, 3rd Jayden Waegli

Jr. Boys Grass/Fancy: 1st Jeremiah Wachumwah, 2nd Kayesh Walsey, 3rd Cameron OnePenne

Teen Boys Grass/Fancy: 1st Ian Mitchell, 2nd Garian McDonald, 3rd Sonny Waegli

Men Traditional: 1st Andrew Williams, 2nd Bryan Adams, 3rd Rusty McCloud

Men Golden Age: 1st Terry Heemsah Sr, 2nd Phil Allan, 3rd Brian George

Mens Fancy/Grass : 1st Garian McDonald, 2nd Robert Tewawina Sr, 3rd Roland Morning Owl

Mens Prairie Chicken Special, final dance group

CONFEDERATED UMATILLA JOURNAL | JANUARY 2024

4

Nixyáawíi Winter Celebration continued...

Tiny Tot Girls winners stand with Round Up Court Queen Kayla Fossek and Happy Canyon Princesses Layla Sohappy and Lauren Gould. 1st Marilyn Spencer, 2nd Haily Heemsah, 3rd Charlie Heemsah

Tiny Tot Boys winners stand with Happy Canyon Princesses Layla Sohappy and Lauren Gould, and Round Up Court Queen Kayla Fossek. 1st Elijah OnePenne, 2nd Jon Adams, 3rd Timina Ellenwood

2024 Pendleton Round Up Court with Happy Canyon Princesses, Lauren Gould and Layla Sohappy

Hand drum participants and contest sponsor, the Thompson family

JANUARY 2024 | CONFEDERATED UMATILLA JOURNAL

5

JANUARY GROCERY SPECIALS SunnyD® Orange Juice 1gal

$6.59 Krusteaz® Wild Berry Muffin Mix 17oz

$5.99 Sahale Snacks® Variety 4oz

$7.89 Scan and subscribe to the CUJ

LIQUID GOLD

SNOWBIRD

Gold Lotus, Passion Fruit, Mango and Coconut

Chocolate, Macadamia Nut and Coconut

$3.99

$3.99

Lotus 32oz

Latte 20oz

Use your Rewards on the Rez card & SAVE ON FUEL!

ONLINE ORDERING AVAILABLE mymissionmarket.com or

Grocery | Deli | Espresso Gas Station | Drive Thru

ORDER ONLINE

SHOP AND GET POINTS!

Earn points on your Rewards on the Rez card when you shop, then spend points like cash!

GAS NOW AVAILABLE 24/7!

Monday – Saturday 6am – 8pm | Sunday 9am – 5pm 46493 Mission Rd. Pendleton, OR 97801 • 541-276-9082

CAT13551-3

Owned and Operated by the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation.

6

CONFEDERATED UMATILLA JOURNAL | JANUARY 2024

NEW YEAR

Cloe McMichael, 22, sets the table in the longhouse in Mission, Ore. ahead of the annual Indian New Year ceremony, which is celebrated on the Winter Solstice.

ANNIE WARREN | COURTESY NWPB

a tiny bite of salmon, meat or wild roots off their plate.

“The Indian New Year for us, the shortest [daylight] day of the year, it marks a change with our Mother Nature,” Armand Minthorn said.

“Like the old people would say, the sun, it turns around and it begins to shine a new light and it’s for our Indian food. Our Indian foods will start coming back. We pray for that food and that it will be plentiful to nourish our body and our heart and help us work on our life with that new food.”

He said the people continue using ceremony and song to recognize this change in the seasons.

“Our old people, generations before us, did the same thing,” he said. “We’re still carrying it, what we heard from them and what they showed us.”

I understand that now and it makes me miss her. But, I’m glad I’m still doing what she taught us, and I’m passing that on to my daughter.”

Everyone gathers for the meal first. There is some singing and drumming — although journalists are not allowed to take pictures or record the songs because it’s a sacred ceremony.

Then comes the tasting of water, or čúuš, served in individual clear cups. Next, a taste of the traditional foods as they’re called out one by one by tribal elder Armand Minthorn.

They’re called by their native names, “núsux! íwínat! pyaxí!” and as each name is called, everyone forks up

Not a funeral Some dinner guests, across the table, said they were happy to be in the longhouse for a joyful event – something hopeful. In big families, there always seems to be a funeral to go to.

People pass red Kool-Aid and deer meat across the table. They laugh, look at their cell phones and snatch at the coveted frybread. Oilyspringy-salty-delicious, the bread quickly empties out of the brightly colored baskets. Young children and their mothers alike smear the bread with packets of butter and chomp into them.

Speeches with a microphone near

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

the elder’s table are made.

It was also an elder’s birthday, and the entire longhouse filled with the tune “Happy Birthday.” Then, an Indigenous Mexican woman from Portland speaks into the mic. She brought lilies to honor the event.

Cloe McMichael, 22, said she misses these events when she is at college in Corvallis from September through June.

“I try to use my language as much as I can in today’s world,” she said.

“To keep that connection to the past and the people that came before me.

It’s important to keep the language as it keeps us connected to all of our other traditions.”

Enjoying her time here in the longhouse, McMichael said she gets pretty sad being away from her tribal home.

“I see the positives of being in school,” she said. “But it’s hard being away.”

The dance A dance circle started slowly, moving counter-clockwise.

People faced forward, then moved to the right in half steps, bouncing.

The tribes in Lapwai, Idaho, and Warm Springs, Oregon, and the Yakama tribes in Washington, were all celebrating at the same time this night, too.

They’re dancing to prepare themselves for the new foods that will come in the wheel of seaso ns over this next year.

They’re dancing for hope. They’re dancing to remember those mothers,

fathers, aunties and uncles who have passed on. Dancing is a prayer.

Armand Minthorn said he’s worried about climate change for the traditional foods’ longevity.

“We usually have snow by now,” he said. “We only had one snowfall several weeks ago. We have to keep praying and we have to keep recognizing our Indian food and we have to go with whatever our Creator plans.”

Everyone on the wash After hours of dancing, nearly everyone comes out to the wash.

The wash is the open, packed clay that’s at the center of the longhouse.

It’s significant because it represents the earth and the land. “When we have service, that ground, it lights up,” Mintorn said, adding that dancing strengthens the body and the heart of the people.

Beaded moccasins hop in unison.

The women and men in a line, oldest to youngest – going around in a long undulating serpentine of humans.

“We go around like that, it makes us closer as family and as people,” said Minthorn. “We’re all supporting each other. We all need each other.”

Nearly 200 people, all singing, drumming and dancing together.

Turning counterclockwise, bring in the new year.

to

“It’s the same way the earth turns,” said Minthorn. “And we turn as well.

As we go around, we recognize this land – it’s always moving and we go in the same direction.”

JANUARY 2024 YELLOWHAWK PHYSICAL WELLNESS CALENDAR MONDAY

Closed for New Year’s Day

1

TUESDAY

2

Tac Meeywi Workout Club

Water Aerobics

Fitness Class Breath, Movement, & Meditation Tac Meeywi Workout Club

Water Aerobics

Early Bird Water Aerobics

Fusion Fitness

Fitness Class

Closed for Martin Luther King Jr. Day

Tac Meeywi Workout Club

Water Aerobics

Early Bird Water Aerobics

Fusion Fitness

Fitness Class

Water Aerobics

Tac Meeywi Workout Club

Water Aerobics

Early Bird Water Aerobics

Fusion Fitness

Fitness Class

Fusion Fitness

23

24 Early Bird Water Aerobics Water Aerobics

Breath, Movement, & Meditation

29

17 Early Bird Water Aerobics

Breath, Movement, & Meditation

Water Aerobics

Fusion Fitness

16

Fitness Class

Tac Meeywi Workout Club

10 Early Bird Water Aerobics

Early Bird Water Aerobics

22

Fusion Fitness

9

Breath, Movement, & Meditation

15

3

Early Bird Water Aerobics

Early Bird Water Aerobics

8

WEDNESDAY

Fusion Fitness

30

Breath, Movement, & Meditation

31 Early Bird Water Aerobics Water Aerobics Fusion Fitness

THURSDAY

ALL CLASSES ARE FREE & OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

4

APPROPRIATE WORKOUT ATTIRE IS RECOMMENDED

TAC MEEYWI WORKOUT CLUB | TU & TH, 5:30-7:30 AM NCS Power up with early bird strength training class.

Incorporate warm-up/cool down exercises, weight training, bodyweight exercises, light cardio & core Sr. Center Group Fitness workouts. Mick Schimmel, 541.969.4385.

WATER AEROBICS | TU & W, 6 - 7 AM Fitness Class M, W, TH, 9:30-10:30 AM | WILDHORSE POOL Breath, Movement, & Meditation This low-impact class is great for all abilities & fitness levels. Water resistance equipment used for Tac Meeywi Workout Club 11 toning & building muscle strength. Leah Harris, Elder & Caregiver 541.240.8729.

Movement for Better Balance MOVEMENT FOR BETTER BALANCE | TH, 8:30-9:30 AM Water Aerobics SR. CENTER Sr. Center Group Fitness Exercise for Elders & Elder Caregivers using basic items in home to gain/maintain strength to prevent Fitness Class falls. Carrie Campbell-Turk, 541.240.8426.

Breath, Movement, & Meditation SR. CENTER GROUP FITNESS | TH, 10:30-11 AM SR. CENTER Tac Meeywi Workout Club 18 Includes strength & resistance training primarily achieved while seated. Chelsey Minthorn, Elder & Caregiver Movement for Better Balance 541.240.8443.

FITNESS CLASS | TU & TH, 12-12:45 PM Water Aerobics YH FITNESS ROOM Sr. Center Group Fitness Include a combination of strength training & highFitness Class intensity interval training. Chelsey Minthorn, 541.240.8443.

Breath, Movement, & Meditation FUSION FITNESS | M & W, 5:30-6:30 PM | NCS First half, Tabata class, a form of HIIT (HighTac Meeywi Workout Club 25 Intensity Interval Training). Last half, guided postures & Yoga Nidra for total body relaxation.

Elder & Caregiver Movement for Better Balance Leah Harris, 541.240.8729.

BREATH, MOVEMENT, & MEDITATION Water Aerobics TU & TH 6 - 7 PM | SR. CENTER Sr. Center Group Fitness Providing tools for calmness. Incorporates Fitness Class lengthening, focused breath work & postures that help rejuvenate & energize both physically & Breath, Movement, & Meditation emotionally. Public Health Department 541.240.8697.

Tac Meeywi Workout Club Elder & Caregiver Movement for Better Balance Water Aerobics

JANUARY

JANUARY 2024 | CONFEDERATED UMATILLA JOURNAL

7

CONFEDERATED UMATILLA JOURNAL | JANUARY 2024

8

CTUIR member beats cancer, champions for tribal health care

By SHAWN O’NEAL American Cancer Society PENDLETON – Karen Malcolm was first touched by cancer in 1987.

It was then that her stepmother, Shirley Spencer Eagle, was diagnosed.

The two were close and Malcolm, then a student at Western Oregon University, was surprised by how important her presence was in Eagle’s cancer journey. She still comes to tears recalling the moment.

“She called me first,” Malcolm said.

“And when she needed that person, she wanted me… When she was in the hospital, my dad told me to stay. I did not want to… I was so overwhelmed, but I did.”

Stay she did. Her stepmother would eventually pass from cancer and Malcolm lost other friends and loved ones along the way. This lead her to participate in Relay for Life with the American Cancer Society and eventually to engage with the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN), the advocacy arm of the American Cancer Society.

That early involvement had a common theme, she said. “I always wanted to do more.”

Do more, she did. And in September, Malcolm was recognized

by ACS CAN as an Ambassador Constituent Team (ACT) Lead of the Year in its annual Leadership Summit

and Lobby Day in Washington, D.C. It’s an award given to four of the more than 400 Ambassador Constituent Team Leads who lead ACS CAN efforts to enact evidence-based public policy and legislative change to reduce the cancer burden for everyone.

An enrolled member of the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Reservation, Malcolm specifically wanted to represent the voices of the four tribes in Oregon’s second congressional district. She said residents of the massive, rural district which covers roughly two-thirds of the state can sometimes feel isolated and ignored.

“We don’t always have a voice,” she said. “ Working with the tribes is very unique. We are sovereign nations and do not follow some of the (federal health care guidelines) and I have been a big pusher in that. That has been a big concentration for me.”

American Indian/Alaska Native (AIAN) and African Americans (AA) continue to bear a disproportionately higher burden of cancer deaths, overall and from major cancers.

By race, overall cancer mortality rates were 18%-19% higher among AIAN males than among white males. AIAN females had 16% and 12% higher cancer mortality rates than white females despite having 7% and 9% lower incidence rates, respectively.

Compared with white people,

Breath Movement Meditation

TUESDAY & THURSDAY 6 TO 7 PM NICHT-YOW-WAY SENIOR CENTER

JANUARY THROUGH MARCH | CLASSES WILL BE HELD EVERY TU/TH | DOORS OPEN AT 5:45 PM

Weekly classes will incorporate lengthening focused breath work and postures that rejuvenate and energize your physical and emotional health and wellness. Open to the public!

Limited Yoga mats, blocks and blankets are available. If possible please bring Yoga mat.

Scan the QR code!

Benefits of Class: Muscle toning, strengthening, flexibility, opening of breath, stimulates all body systems including muscular, circulatory and digestive.

BROUGHT TO YOU BY GOOD HEALTH AND WELLNESS IN INDIAN COUNTRY GUEST FACILITATOR / CONTACT SHANNA TRELOAR, 541.240.8700 CONTACT YELLOWHAWK PUBLIC HEALTH DEPARTMENT, 541.240.8697

Karen Malcolm, left, volunteers at a public outreach booth during Pendleton Round Up in September. AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY | COURTESY

incidence rates of colorectal and cervical cancer were also higher among AIAN people.

More than one-third of AIANs adults use commercial tobacco products, more than any other racial or ethnic group. Lung cancer mortality is highest among AIAN men. Lung cancer incidence among AIAN women is similar to or higher than among their male counterparts and AIAN women have the highest mortality of any racial or ethnic group.

Following screening guidelines and regular visits with healthcare providers is key to reducing cancer diagnosis and outcomes of those who

are diagnosed, which included more than 26,000 Oregonians in 2023.

Malcolm diagnosed in 2022 with breast cancer. She is an intensely private person and said she does not like to talk about her personal health situation, but does so in order to help others understand the importance of screenings and diagnostics.

She is now cancer free and plans to continue to help others understand the powerful tools available to diagnose and survive the disease.

“I think it is important to remember those who have had breast cancer before,” she said. “Some of these ladies are still going strong. They are surviving.”

JANUARY 2024 | CONFEDERATED UMATILLA JOURNAL

9

Respiratory viruses on the rise, resolve to get vaccinated PORTLAND — With the new year fast approaching, Oregon health officials are asking people to resolve in 2024 to get vaccinated against respiratory viruses that are on the rise in the state.

Dr. Dean Sidelinger, health officer and state epidemiologist at OHA, said vaccination remains the best way for Oregonians to protect themselves against COVID-19, influenza (flu) and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and it’s not too late to get any of the vaccines.

“While some resolutions require making healthy changes for the rest of your life, we’re asking you to resolve to make an appointment for a vaccination,” Sidelinger said.

“We’re not asking you to change your behavior for the year. We’re asking you to change your risk of getting sick.”

The renewed push for vaccinations comes as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) published its Morbidity and Mortality Week Report (MMWR) on fall 2023 respiratory virus vaccination coverage among adults. The report included national and jurisdiction-specific estimates for influenza, COVID-19 and RSV vaccination coverage among adults 18 and older from the National Immunization Survey-Adult COVID Module.

According to the report, 25% of eligible Oregon adults have received

the 2023-2024 COVID-19 vaccine, 40.8% have received the influenza vaccine and 20.3% have received the RSV vaccine. Oregon ranks ninth in the nation for COVID-19 vaccine coverage; 35th for flu vaccine coverage; and 16th for RSV vaccine coverage.

Supply is not a problem for most of the vaccines, Sidelinger said.

COVID-19 and influenza vaccines are readily available in Oregon, as are the new RSV vaccines for older adults and pregnant people. The RSV antibody immunization for children is still in limited supply across the country and in Oregon, though some doses are available for newborns and prioritized high-risk babies. Parents should talk to their health care providers.

It can take a couple weeks for the body to ramp up its immune response following vaccination, but Sidelinger said antibody levels start rising within days of getting a shot and will offer some protection. He said people can think of getting vaccinated as a gift for themselves and loved ones, or as a New Year’s resolution.

“Consider people at higher risk for severe illness, such as young children, older adults, and those with chronic conditions or who are immunocompromised, and what we can do to keep them safe,” Sidelinger said.

That includes staying home if sick,

regularly washing hands, covering coughs and sneezes, cleaning frequently touched surfaces, and wearing a well-fitting mask, in addition to getting vaccinated.

While COVID-19 community transmission has remained stable this respiratory season – the average percentage of reported positive COVID-19 tests has hovered just above 9% since the start of November – community transmission of both influenza and RSV has steadily increased. Percent positivity of influenza tests has increased from 1% on Nov. 2 to 6.5% as of Dec. 16.

For RSV tests, percent positivity has increased from 3.6% to 11.5% during that same period.

The hospitalization rate associated with COVID-19 in Oregon has been stable; population-level immunity from vaccination and previous infection is leading to decreasing severity of COVID-19 infections over time. CDC forecasting predicts a plateau in COVID-19-associated hospitalizations in Oregon through early January.

CDC forecasting also predicts a steady increase in influenzaassociated hospitalizations in Oregon through early January.

On Nov. 11, Oregon met criteria to formally declare RSV season onset, which the CDC defines as the first of two consecutive weeks during which the percentage of specimens testing

positive for RSV antigen is at or above 10% or the percentage of specimens testing positive for RSV by PCR is at or above 3%, whichever occurs first.

For influenza, a 5% test positivity rate is considered a threshold for significant influenza circulation.

Patients of Yellowhawk Tribal Health Center may schedule vaccine appointments Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.

-3:30 p.m. This includes all children, adolescent and adult immunizations in addition to influenza and COVID-19 2023-2024.

Patients seeing a personal care provider will also be able to receive all vaccines, including influenza and COVID-19, at that visit. Patients only have to notify the provider prior ot the appointment of the vaccinations they would like to receive.

All immunization services will be offered in the Yellowhawk medical wing, and people checking in should go to the medical reception area to do so.

Outside of the reservation, people can get the vaccines by contacting their health plan, health care provider, county public health clinic or federally qualified health center (FQHC). They can also search for a clinic by ZIP code by visiting vaccinefinder.org, or by calling 211 or visiting 211info.org.

For additional respiratory virus data, visit Oregon’s Respiratory Virus Data dashboards published on OHA’s website.

CONFEDERATED UMATILLA JOURNAL | JANUARY 2024

10

Indigenous Journalists, ICT graduate fellowship applications now open NORMAN, Okla. – The Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication is partnering with the Indigenous Journalists Association (formerly Native American Journalists Association) and Indian Country Today to support an outstanding IJA member to pursue a master’s degree in the 2024-2025 academic school year and produce content for the national ICT audience.

The Cronkite/ICT fellow may select any of the four Cronkite master’s degrees offered on Arizona State University’s downtown Phoenix campus, with a choice of master of arts in investigative or sports journalism, a master of mass communication, or master of arts in strategic communication.

The fellowship includes a 15 hour-per-week internship with ICT for the academic year (August to May); free tuition for all three semesters of the Cronkite master’s program; travel and participation cost for the annual IJA convention; $24,586 in salary for the academic year (paid biweekly August to May); and health insurance.

At ICT, the fellow will work alongside Indigenous journalists from a range of experiences and have opportunities to produce stories for and about the Indigenous world for ICT digital and/or broadcast audiences.

To be eligible, applicants must be an IJA member; have a bachelor’s degree in any discipline from a regionally accredited institution prior to the fall semester; apply for and be accepted to a Cronkite School master’s degree program on the downtown Phoenix campus to begin in the Fall 2024 semester; and commit to working 15 hours per week for ICT. To be considered for this opportunity, complete the fellowship application by February 15, 2024 and apply for admission to the Cronkite School’s graduate programs.

For more information or to discuss this opportunity, email Aric Johnson at cronkitegrad@asu.edu.

To apply or for more information, scan the QR with your smart phone or visit www.IndigenousJournalists.org

BLM extends app deadline for 2024 student trainee internships BAKER CITY – The Bureau of Land Management has extended the application deadline for its 2024 Student Trainee Internship program.

Applications will now be accepted through 9 p.m. MT Monday, Jan. 8.

Students must be 16 years of age or older and enrolled full or part time in an accredited high school, technical or vocational school, 2-year or 4-year college or university, graduate or professional school.

Interns who successfully complete the program are eligible for noncompetitive conversion to permanent or term positions within the federal government.

Direct links to listings for internship positions in Vale or Baker: Realty GS-2 Vale https://www. usajobs.gov/job/765304500 Contracting GS-3 Vale https:// www.usajobs.gov/job/764909600 Public Affairs GS-4 Baker City https://www.usajobs.gov/ job/765299000 Outdoor Recreation GS-2 Baker City https://www.usajobs.gov/ job/764650000 Natural Resources Monitoring GS-3 Baker City, Vale https://www. usajobs.gov/job/765021200 Wildland Firefighter GS-2/3 (must be at least 18) Baker City, Jordan Valley, Juntura, Vale https://www.

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is hiring at least 100 paid student interns across the country, including the Pacific Northwest. Job applications will be open on USAjobs. gov. BLM | COURTESY

usajobs.gov/job/765011400 Applications must be submitted through https://www.usajobs.gov/ View tutorials on how to apply online at https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=qIQCTid16m4 or visit www.nifc.gov/careers.

Have questions or need help with an application? Call Marisa Carney at 541-474-6374 or email mncarney@ blm.gov, or Larisa Bogardus at 541523-1407 or lbogardus@blm.gov.

For information about the BLM Internship Program, visitblm.gov.

JANUARY 2024 | CONFEDERATED UMATILLA JOURNAL

11

Forest Corps offers service opportunity for Native youth

Presented by

Applications close January 20th, 2023 Apply online at nnacoe.org/tribal-health-scholars

Tribal Health Scholars (THS) is a paid externship program that supports and inspires AIAN high school students to envision themselves as healthcare professionals and to pursue education required for a career in healthcare.

THS INCLUDES: A 14 week virtual experience where each week, scholars learn in depth about different healthcare fields and hear from guest speakers 12 hours of a clinical shadowing externship where scholars gain exposure to health careers at their local tribal health clinics or hospitals (Scrubs will be provided) One-on-one and group mentoring on scholar’s educational and career interests

ELIGIBILITY: You must be in high school (open to freshman, sophomores, juniors & seniors) Attendance is required every week for the fulllength of the program. Join weekly by computer/Wi-Fi, and in-person for 12 hours of clinical shadowing.

You will earn a stipend upon successful completion of the 18 week program.

For more information or to request an application please contact: Katie at murpkati@ohsu.edu or Isaac at butleris@ohsu.edu

Scan and subscribe to the CUJ

SACRAMENTO – AmeriCorps and U.S. Forest Service have launched Forest Corps – a five-year $15 million agreement in partnership under President Biden’s American Climate Corps.

Beginning summer 2024, this program will engage 80 young adults, ages 18-26, in wildland fire prevention, reforestation and other natural and cultural resource management projects to support the U.S. Forest Service’s Wildfire Crisis Strategy and Reforestation Strategy. Native youth will be recruited for Forest Corps in key locations to support cultural resource management projects. AmeriCorps National Civilian Community Corps/ Forest Corps members will receive a compensation package equivalent to $15 an hour, including lodging, transportation, clothing, a living allowance, health benefit and more.

Members will receive extensive training, hands-on-experience and leadership skills for future careers in natural resource management, forest health and climate resilience at the U.S Forest Service or other organizations.

Participants will perform direct, hands-on service in the areas of wildfire risk mitigation, reforestation, environmental conservation and resource management.

Service

projects could include hazardous fuels reduction, protecting threatened habitats, conducting prescribed burns, wildlife surveys, infrastructure or trail maintenance, or providing nursery services to support growing seedlings, so adaptability is key.

Participants will also undergo intensive training with the United States Forest Service in preparation for taking on leadership roles and specialized assignments along the way.

Forest Corps work is field based and rigorous. Participants must be prepared to handle hiking long distances while carrying a heavy backpack, navigating uneven terrain, carrying tools and be able to complete trail work, surveys, prescribed fire burns, planting seedlings and other labor-intensive outdoors projects.

Forest Corps is a program partnership between AmeriCorps NCCC and U.S. Forest Service.

To apply or for more information, scan the QR with your smart phone or search online for americorps.gov.

President’s List: Dearcie Abraham Wenona Scott

Fall Honor Roll

Vice President’s List: D’andre Rodriguez

12

CONFEDERATED UMATILLA JOURNAL | JANUARY 2024

CTUIR names Jaimie Crane new Director of Education MISSION – Effective Jan. 2, Jaimie Crane became the new Education Department director for the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation (CTUIR).

“It was an amazing surprise,” she said. “I am grateful that I was given an opportunity to discuss my philosophies and skills with leadership and to share my vision to empower our community through learning. What an exciting way to end this year and enter the next.”

Crane has worked at the CTUIR since June 2020 within the departments of Children and Family Services and Natural Resources. Most recently she served as the Human Resources Training & Development manager. She also serves on the Nixyáawii Community School Executive Board.

“Jamie comes with great experience in the Educational arena. With her educational degrees in the education realm and past experience working with special needs children, curriculum development, individual assessments for students needing additional resources to succeed, and her overall knowledge of the processes to assist in children and family success inside and outside of the classroom, she will be a great asset to our existing team to ensure full wrap-around services for our tribal member families” said CTUIR Deputy Executive Director Jonetta Herrera.

Along with a bachelor’s degree in educational studies focusing on elementary and special education, Crane has a master’s degree in teaching. Her education background

Jaimie Crane

includes working as a special needs instructor at the Idaho School for the Deaf and Blind and as a special education paraprofessional at Mountain Home School in Idaho.

Crane said her goals as director include using evidence-based best practices, cultural reinforcements and coordination of services with resource providers to help students reach their educational aspirations.

“Education is the cornerstone of individual progress, contributing to personal development, economic prosperity, social cohesion and the overall well-being of communities,” she said.

She replaces Modesta Minthorn, who became Portland State University’s first executive director of Tribal Relations in November.

Minthorn served as Education Department director for eight years.

The Education Department consists of nine programs including the Cay-Uma-Wa Head Start, Átaw Miyánašma Learning Center, Higher Education & Vocational Training and CTUIR Language Program.

Tribal agriculture fellowship applications accepted now FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – Tribal Agriculture Fellowship (TAF) applications are being accepted now through Feb. 2.

TAF was designed to aid Native students in achieving their educational goals leading to careers in agriculture.

The fellowship program provides a benefits package that can include up to four years of fellowship status, with funding to earn agricultural degrees or technical certifications.

The fellowship is aimed at rising and current technical, undergraduate and graduate students who can provide proof of tribal enrollment or “community connectedness.”

TAF resources can be used for tuition and fees, housing, meal plans, equipment fees and testing costs, and professional development.

Fellows in this program will receive funding for a bachelor’s degree in agriculture.

The TAF Program is a last-dollar fellowship program. Students are encouraged to accept financial aid from other sources, including university financial assistance, federal financial aid, prestige fellowships and scholarships and tribal scholarships.

TAF was designed to close the financial gap to allow fellows to place their primary focus on their academic pursuits while allowing fellows to have the time and resources needed to participate in educational enrichment activities.

The mission of the Tribal Agriculture Fellowship is to create opportunities for students to advance their education in agriculture, increase specialized knowledge and preserve and promote the legacy of agriculture in tribal communities.

For more information or to apply, visit https://taffellows.org.

The Sapsik’wałá Teacher Education Program invites you to APPLY to participate in our Native Future Teachers Program! Our Grow Your Own (GYO) Program is a 12-week online mentorship program for AI/AN high school and college students living in Oregon or with Tribal affiliation in any of the nine federally recognized Tribal Nations and the 43 Tribal Nations that have residency by aboriginal right in Oregon.

Up to 30 GYO participants will join in community with current Sapsik’wałá students, alumni educators, and Elder educators to receive weekly academic and cultural mentorship for transitioning to higher education and towards becoming an indigenous teacher. GYO will be a distance learning experience (through ZOOM). Participants will receive technology support and gift cards for actively participating in our community and completing project goals.

APPLICATIONS DUE FEBRUARY 16TH

To apply, or for more info, visit https://blogs.uoregon.edu/sapsikwala/

CTUIR GED® Program Life is a trail to wander, make your own tracks.

GED® grads can earn on average $9,000 more a year millions of people have passed the GED® test.

You can do this!

Call, email, or visit Katherine at the CTUIR GED program for information: Katherine Palmer, CTUIR GED Instructor & Coach KatherinePalmer@ctuir.org OKice: (541) 429-7824 Cell: 541-975-0118 Nixya’awii Education Center Higher Education Classroom 221

JANUARY 2024 | CONFEDERATED UMATILLA JOURNAL

December 15, 2023 CTUIR Youth Leadership Council c o Julie Taylor, Director Department of Children and Family Services 46411 Timine Way Pendleton, OR 97801

Dear CTUIR Youth Leadership Council, I am writing to extend my heartfelt congratulations to the newly elected members of the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation (CTUIR) Youth Leadership Council.

It is with great pleasure that I commend your Commitment to serving the tribal community and congratulate you on the significance of this achievement. Your recent election to the Council is not only a testament to your leadership qualities but also a reflection of your dedication to making a positive impact on the lives of your fellow community members.

The formation of this Council highlights the importance of fostering leadership skills and empowering the next generation of tribal leaders.

As Governor of the State of Oregon, I am inspired by your vision and determination as youth to strengthen you tribal community and contribute to the well-being of all youth on behalf of the CTUIR. The voices and perspectives of young leaders like yourselves are crucial in shaping the future and I commend your willingness to take on this responsibility. Your role in the Council provides an excellent platform to advocate for the needs and aspirations of Native youth, ensuring that their voices are heard and their concerns addressed. I encourage you to embrace this opportunity to collaborate, innovate, and create positive change within the CTUIR community.

Your efforts have the power to inspire others and contribute to the continued growth and resilience of the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation and beyond. Your commitment to service and building community is a source of pride for all Oregonians.

Please accept my sincere congratulations once again and may your journey be filled with achievements, personal growth, and the fulfillment of your aspirations.

Governor Tina Kotek

13

14

CONFEDERATED UMATILLA JOURNAL | JANUARY 2024

Tribal member plays in all-star game

By CHRIS AADLAND Reporter MISSION – When the Pendleton High School football team lost to Mazama in the first round of the playoffs in November, Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation (CTUIR) tribal member Sky Smith thought his playing career was over.

Smith, a senior at Nixyáawii Community School (NCS) who played offensive line for Pendleton and earned a Greater Oregon League all-league team honorable mention last season, said he wasn’t planning to play in college and was disappointed when the Bucks were knocked out of the playoffs.

“I thought I was done with football forever,” Smith said.

But the disappointment of playing in his final football game was soon erased when he got an email a few days later inviting him to participate in the Indigenous Bowl, an annual game played between two teams of all-star players.

This was great news for Smith, who said he was “pretty excited to be able to play one more time.”

Smith has recently returned from southern California, where he spent the week of Dec. 17 competing with, and against, some of the best Indigenous high school football players in the country. The week culminated in the bowl game, played on the Soboba Indian Reservation in southern California Dec. 21.

The organization that organizes the event, the 7G Foundation, said it holds the game to help mold the next generations of Native leaders through education, athletics and culture.

Smith said he was one of 75 or so who were selected from a pool of about 350 high seniors who had applied and submitted game film.

Ultimately, about 50 – including some players who had committed to play at a college or university – traveled to play in the game, he added.

Ron Smith, Sky Smith’s dad, said Sky was the first CTUIR tribal member to play in the game and only the second or third person from Oregon to be selected.

Smith, who also plays for the NCS boys varsity basketball team, spent the week participating in two-a-day practices, eating meals with the team and taking part in cultural exchange events shared by the Soboba Band of Luiseño Indians.

His family came with to watch, too.

Overall, Smith said they spent about a week and a half in California.

But the highlight of the week, he said, was the game itself – even though his team lost in a lopsided game.

“That didn’t matter,” Smith, who played as an offensive lineman, said.

“I was still having fun.”

Since it was a good experience, he said he hopes that future CTUIR members will someday play in the same game. Smith said he was proud he was chosen to participate and thanked two of his coaches from the

Sky Smith holds his tribal flag for a photo. COURTESY

game – Edward Hill, his offensive line coach, and Bryan Begay, who Smith said he knew already because his dad had coached with him in Arizona – who helped make it a great experience.

“It was a great opportunity,” he said.

“I met a lot of people from different places.”

Smith, who is planning on attending college at Whitman College, Oregon State University or Fort Lewis College, said he might try to walk on to the team at Fort Lewis if he decides to attend the Colorado school, but otherwise his playing career is likely over.

Still, Smith said that doesn’t mean his involvement with the sport he’s played since he was a fourth grader is over.

He is planning on studying exercise physiology in college and plans to use the degree to help keep him involved in the sport.

“I want to be a coach,” Smith said.

“Stay with the game.”

Clash at the Border tourney returns PENDLETON – Pendleton Basketball Club recently announced the return of their Clash at the Border basketball tournament after a three-year hiatus due to the pandemic.

The tournament will be held Feb. 3 – 4, 2024, and teams can register online at www. pendletonbasketballclub.org.

The Clash at the Border has a history of putting on a top-notch event and has hosted more than 80 teams from Oregon, Idaho, and Washington. The tournament is an official qualifier for the 2024 Oregon Middle School Basketball Championship to be held in Central Oregon March 1-3 (girls) & March 8-10 (boys). All teams finishing first or second in each division will qualify for the state championship to battle top teams from towns throughout Oregon.

Proceeds from this tournament support local Pendleton AAU teams and Pendleton High School Basketball.

For more information, contact Aaron Schmidt at pendletonbasketballclub@gmail. com or call 541-788 – 9632.

Early registration is $275 and must be postmarked or registered online by Jan. 3, 2024.

Late registration is $375 and must be postmarked or registered online by Monday, Jan. 22.

Student athlete calls lacrosse the ‘best happy place’ PORTLAND – The Pacific Northwest Native Lacrosse Club (PNWNL) recently featured Leon Dave, a senior at Burns High School in Burns and a descendant of the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation, in its online Native Student-Athlete Q&A Spotlight. Dave has been playing lacrosse for 12 years and was introduced to PNWNL by his coach, Rick Roy, who runs Nadzitsaga Lacrosse.

Being a high school athlete can be challenging. How do you balance your academic responsibilities with your commitment to lacrosse?

How did you first get involved in lacrosse, and what drew you to the sport?

The Medicine Game is a prayer; everyone plays for their own prayer of medicine. I lost my mother due to suicide, so I play for our Creator and bring good mental states to my peers around me.

All the love for lacrosse comes from my older brother putting a stick in my hand and going one-on-one across our patio at the age of 7. What draws me closer is understanding the privilege of playing the same sport my ancestors did many moons ago.

As a Native high school lacrosse player in the Pacific Northwest, how do you feel your cultural identity influences your experience in the sport?

Playing lacrosse as a Native American makes the experience of Lacrosse as if I am a warrior myself, AHO.

School always comes first. In order to see the grass, you need to pass the class. Study the books, then study the field.

Can you share how the cultural and historical aspects of lacrosse, known as the Medicine Game, resonate with you personally?

Are there any Native lacrosse players or coaches who have been role models or inspirations for you?

How have they influenced your journey?

Another person besides my brother, Ty Enlestadter, who planted lacrosse in my heart, is a fellow by the name of Lane Hawley. I am very lucky to have these people as lacrosse role models, pushing me to play better without even knowing it.

Looking ahead, what are your goals for both lacrosse and your

personal development? Do you have plans to continue playing after high school?

I am looking for colleges to attend after high school. I plan to be the best, always.

What advice would you give to younger Native students who might be interested in taking up lacrosse?

“To become spring, means accepting the risk of winter.” To become presence means accepting the risk of absence.” “You can’t understand a win until you’ve truly lost.”

Finally, what does lacrosse mean to you, and how do you think it has shaped you as a person and as a member of the Native community?

Lacrosse is the best happy place I could ever have: no need to think and no time to complain. Lacrosse is my personality. It’s given me the characteristics to adapt to anything, anywhere. I am thankful for lacrosse.

Republished with kind permission of Northwest Native Lacrosse Club.

For more informtion about the club, visit www.pnwnativelax.com.

Leon Dave is a senior at Burns High School. PNWNL | COURTESY

JANUARY 2024 | CONFEDERATED UMATILLA JOURNAL

15

Sports Spotlight Weston-McEwen traveled to the Eagles’ Nest to play the Nixyáawii Golden Eagles, Friday, Dec. 22. The Tigerscots took the win over the Golden Eagles 62-50.

The Lady Golden Eagles also fell to the Tigerscots, posting a non-conference loss of 64-37.

SPORTS SPOTLIGHT SUMMARIES AND PHOTOS BY DALLAS DICK | CUJ

Tristan Parrish goes for a lay up against Sacas Wildbill and Cashis Bevis.

Taylor Quaempts struggles for the rebound guarded by Liana Stewart.

Manaia Wolf goes in for a lay up.

Check OSAA website for most up-to-date information: www.osaa.org/schools/Nixyaawii

Tune in to KCUW 104.1 to hear Thursday/Friday games live.

CONFEDERATED UMATILLA JOURNAL | JANUARY 2024

16

A Memorial Tribute

Laying a Legend and Beloved Elder to Rest: Atway Dr. Ron Pond

It is a great honor to honor a great man, so thank you for inviting me to be here to pay respects to our beloved elder. I was not raised in the Indian ways, so please forgive me if I speak in error – my only intention is to show respect for our beloved elder and this community.

In listening to the storytelling of Atway Dr. Ron Pond, our beloved Elder, who we honor here today, I am struck by what he taught us: that without our culture, without our ways, we are not a people – we are simply flesh and bones.

The effort to destroy – physically, spiritually, and culturally – the peoples that have nurtured this land since time immemorial is only prevented by those who work to protect and revive the cultural ways.

We have gathered here together to lay to rest a Legend in protecting and reviving the cultural ways of many Indian peoples. We gather to honor his legacy – to show we understand the importance of his work and are committed to carrying it on.

In a 2006 recorded storytelling, our beloved Elder told of his growing up on these lands, learning from his elders, and attending public school in Pendleton. He said, “there was nothing in the schools that taught us about our culture.” So he changed that for future generations. He made education more valuable and more relevant.

He was a first in many things that he did, but he was ultimately a man of service – that is what he was taught by his elders. When he worked as a smokejumper, he protected lives and land. When he worked as an educator, he taught students, his co-workers, Members of the United States Congress, and even U.S. Presidents. He played a fundamental role in establishing many of the Indian civil rights laws that protect our families today.

Although the bar for U.S. Presidents is a low one when it comes to Tribal sovereignty and the rights of Indian peoples, President Nixon is notable in his support of establishing many Indian civil rights. But he didn’t get there by himself. He was taught. And our beloved Elder, the Legend, was one of Nixon’s great teachers. The Legend educated those in power and brought people together, across political lines, by working with congressional Republicans and Democrats to pass Indian civil rights laws.

Audre Lorde, a descendant of slaves, once said, “the master’s tools will not dismantle the master’s house.” You have to be very smart and determined and courageous and compassionate and persistent to dismantle the legal and political shackles that Indian peoples faced when the Legend began

educating U.S. politicians.

The Legend was instrumental in passing civil rights laws that have impacted the lives of so many: the Indian Child Welfare Act, the Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act, the American Indian Religious Freedom Act, and the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act. • With the Indian Child Welfare Act, he helped save children being stripped of their culture and sense of identity. Yes, being a parent has its challenges, but irreparable damage is done to a child’s soul when they lose their sense of who they are.

• With the Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act, he helped change what had been his own experience, of not being taught Tribal history, language, culture and traditions – these things that helps us be connected to something greater than just ourselves, to have a history and purpose.

• With the American Indian Religious Freedom Act, he helped protect the rights of people indigenous to this land to continue the traditional practices of ceremony and worship and use of sacred objects that have sustained culture throughout time. When your culture is taken from you, you lose your sense of self. The Legend helped people remember and reestablish traditional language and practices that were on the verge of being lost forever.

• On the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act, he helped Congress understand that robbing graves is a crime, and helped draft the law that said human remains and sacred objects should be returned home.

And when he couldn’t move them in the halls of power, he fought them in the courts.

When the State of Oregon claimed that the Klamath and Modoc could not use peyote in traditional religious ceremonies, The Legend got involved. Because even if it wasn’t his way, he knew the importance of supporting Tribal rights and sacred practices. He joined the fight, and they won in the U.S. Supreme Court.

He worked on – and helped win – water cases with Tribes who may not have been traditional allies, but who needed each other to win important cases to protect Tribal sovereignty.

He also fought for fishing rights – something promised in the Treaties that ceded the lands that became the states of Oregon and Washington. The Boldt decision affirmed Tribal sovereignty and fishing rights. This fight was important to protect the ways – and the food – that have sustained the peoples of this land since time immemorial:

In Memoriam

Thomas Brigham

September 14, 1946 – December 19, 2023 Thomas Brigham passed away on December 19, 2023 at his home in Stevenson, Washington. He was 77. Thomas was born on an island at Celilo Falls, Oregon, on September 14, 1946. Most of Thomas’ life was spent along the Colombia River. Thomas had three sons: Dion, Percy Waine, and Christopher.

He was loved by many grandchildren and great grandchildren, brothers and sister, daughter-in-law Jenny, plus many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his son Dion, mother Phyllis Shillal, stepdad Percy Brigham, brother Calvin Shillal and his wife Michelle Brigham.

Thomas was loved and adored by so many, he will be greatly missed but never forgotten.

the fish, wild game, edible plants, roots, and huckleberries – in all the usual and accustomed places.

He was a man of great education – from Oregon schools to his PhD from Washington State University, where he studied anthropology and archeology and music. In the 1980s, when many Tribes were on the brink of losing their languages, as the elders passed, he worked to provide cultural and language education for young people. He revived drumming and dance traditions, then helped teach them to young people. He believed profoundly in the value of education, saying we are “obligated to ensure that our young people receive an education.” He first made education relevant, then he made sure that people had access to it. To teach the old ways. Because knowing who we are and where we come from is what makes us a people, more than simply flesh and bones.

He was a culture bearer.

And he impacted education in our entire state when he helped spearhead the Memorandum of Understanding between Oregon’s nine federally recognized Tribes and state universities to develop historical and cultural education for future generations. This affected me personally, when I studied Water Law and Indian Law at the University of Oregon, and we had guest speakers and ceremonies in the Longhouse that is located next to the Law School.

That was just part of the impact he had.

I know I am not telling you anything new. Many of you here have witnessed these things with your own eyes. But I share them to remember. These are gifts that our beloved Elder, this humble leader, has given us and the legacy that he leaves us.

He was a modest man.

In a 2006 interview of The Legend, he said he was taught to “do your best to serve the needs of your people.” It was how he was brought up. He said to “always seek the welfare of the people. And do all that you can, because we’re only here in this life for a brief time.”

That is his legacy and lessons to us. He impacted us all – this community, this state, and this country – in ways we may not fully understand or appreciate.

Our broken hearts are grateful.

And with his passing, he now hands these responsibilities to us.

As you take your well-deserved rest, our beloved Elder, please know that we will honor your legacy by carrying on your work.

Rest in Peace and reclaimed Power.

– Tribute submitted by Boots Pond

JANUARY 2024 | CONFEDERATED UMATILLA JOURNAL

17

In Memoriam Jessie Elfleeda-Marie Walker May 23, 1932 - December 11, 2023

Jessie Elfleeda-Marie Walker, 91, longtime resident of Mission, OR, passed away surrounded by her family on December 11, 2023. She was a loving and compassionate person and will be dearly missed.

Jessie’s children and their families were the most cherished parts of her life. At the time of her passing, this included 9 children, 42 grandchildren, 23 great grandchildren, and 1 great great grandchild. She also loved her animals, reading, traveling, listening to and singing gospel music, the performing arts, and visiting with family and friends. She loved to listen to the rain and visit the ocean.

Jessie was a strong advocate for those whose voices often went unheard and respected all views and beliefs. She opened her door to anyone in need, no matter what or when. Many of the youth in the community would refer to her as Grandma Jessie. Her faith was strong and she understood that there are several ways to acknowledge and worship a higher power than her.

Jessie was preceded in death by her parents, Earl Walker and Florence Walker; sister, Velda McQuitty; daughter, Rebecca Russell; and grandson Cole Krause.

She is survived by sons William Filener (Peggy), Michael Mogan, David Filener (Katrina), and Randall Melton (Katrina); daughters Mary Powell McConnell, Cynthia Russell, Julia Flynn (Paul), and Willa Wallace (Chris); her grandchildren, and great grandchildren.

Services for Jessie were held at Pioneer Chapel in Pendleton. Her request was to be cremated and have her ashes interred at the Fryatt Cemetery in Arkansas.

A full obituary is viewable at https://www.pioneerchapel.com/listings

Apologies to the Minthorn family, this thank you note was erroneously omitted from the December CUJ.

18

CONFEDERATED UMATILLA JOURNAL | JANUARY 2024

C E L E B R A T E

Scan and subscribe to the CUJ

JANUARY 2024 | CONFEDERATED UMATILLA JOURNAL

19

WRC DECEMBER

Employees of the Month Supervisor of the month: Katie Strasser (Food & Beverage) “Katie has consistently shown exemplary dedication and commitment to her role as a team member. Her exceptional work ethic and unwavering enthusiasm have made a substantial impact on our team’s success. One remarkable instance of her dedication was when she wrote a warm and welcoming message to our new employee, Alexandra. Katie’s thoughtful message made Alexandra feel instantly welcomed and valued, setting a positive tone for her onboarding experience. This act of kindness reflects Katie’s exceptional interpersonal skills and her commitment to creating a supportive team environment. Furthermore, her willingness to help new employees and ensure their smooth transition highlights her outstanding teamwork and leadership qualities. It is without a doubt that Katie’s contributions make her worthy of being recognized as the Employee of the Month.”

- Nominated by Kevin Haid, Bar Manager Frontline Employee of the month: Christopher “Dan” Altman (Security) “I wanted to bring to your attention an exceptional act of compassion and dedication demonstrated by one of our Dayshift security guards, Mr. Christopher “Dan” Altman.

Recently, Dan took notice of a young guest at the bowling alley who was celebrating her birthday, but unfortunately, no one had shown up for the occasion. In response, Dan took it upon himself to make her day special. He purchased a card and blanket from the gift shop and, in doing so, inspired several other employees to join him in making a collective effort to uplift and brighten the young girl’s spirits.

The end result was truly heartwarming, with about a dozen employees going above and beyond their duties to ensure this guest felt cherished and celebrated on her special day.

Acts of kindness such as these not only reflect the exceptional character of our team members but also embody the values we hold dear at WRC. It is moments like these that make us proud to be part of a team that goes the extra mile to make a positive impact on the lives of our guests.

- Nominated by Edgar Simpson Support Employee of the month: Brian Mildenberger (Golf Groundskeeper) “Brian takes great pride in his work. His efforts helped the golf course conserve water by monitoring hot spots and the upkeep of sprinklers. Brian jumps in and helps anywhere and anyone who needs help. He is constantly looking for ways to be more efficient. In the winter Brian is the weekend groundskeeper making sure the course is ready to play when the weather allows and that the garbage in the casino parking lots is picked up and the grounds are tidy. He is always very courteous with our guests, greets them warmly, and offers assistance when needed.”

- Nominated by Sean Hoolehan, Director of Grounds

USDA Natural Resources Conservation Services to Hold Local Work Group Meeting Agency: USDA - Natural Resources Conservation Service Meeting: Umatilla County Local Work Group Meeting Date: Tuesday, Jan. 30, 2024 Time: 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Location: Pendleton Convention Center, 1601 Westgate, Pendleton, Oregon 97801 For More Information, contact: Heath Hoeft Acting DC, 541-278-8049 ext. 4040.

Purpose: NRCS is holding a Local Work Group Meeting to gather input from farmers, ranchers, state and federal agencies, agriculture and conservation organizations regarding natural resource conservation priorities and opportunities to invest collaboratively in Linn County.

The USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer and lender.

A request for accommodations for persons with disabilities should be made 48 hours before the meeting. Please contact (DC or DC designee and appropriate phone number) for arrangements.

Accommodation is readily accessible.

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

Tribal Hiring Preference and Equal Opportunity Employer.

Current Cayuse Holdings job opportunities include: Briefing Support Specialist (OR), Customer Support Agent (Remote), Data and Reporting Lead (Remote), Deckhand (Guam), Program Manager (NM), Service Desk Agent (Remote), Desktop Technician III (NM), Tier 1.0 Help Desk Specialist (OR), Briefing Support Analyst (VA), OT Incident Response Analyst (TX), IT Desktop Analyst (Remote), QA Team Lead (Remote).

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

CONFEDERATED UMATILLA JOURNAL | JANUARY 2024

20

BECOME A CERTIFIED DRONE PILOT! CTUIR will support you: • UAS training (4-week full time class or 12-week BMCC class) • Childcare and transportation • Exam fee (FAA Part 107 exam) • “Learn and Earn” placement with a local drone company • Acquire a drone to keep

As a certified UAS/drone operator with experience: • Apply for open positions • Do freelance work as a drone operator • Start your own business • Work in Pendleton area or anywhere

Eligibility Requirements: • 18 years old+ • High School Diploma/GED • CTUIR Tribal Members • Other Tribal Member • CTUIR Employees

RECRUITING CTUIR Tribal Members: PICK UP YOUR LETTER OF INTEREST APPLICATION IN THE DCFS OFFICE DEADLINE JANUARY 15TH , 2024

CTUIR has received a 3-year, Round Two Workforce Ready Grant from the Oregon Higher Education Coordinating Commission.

Questions? Call Kari Gibson, Workforce Development Coordinator 541-429-7304 or KariGibson@ctuir.org