CUJ JUNE 25 by Confederated Umatilla Journal

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

CTUIR celebrates 15th annual Flag Day

CHRIS AADLAND

The CUJ MISSION - Dozens of community members gathered last month to recognize the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation holiday recognizing the tribal flag. The annual event – the only holiday the tribe recognizes that isn’t shared by anyone else – was held at the Nixyáawii

Governance Center on May 20. About 60 attendees heard remarks about the significance of the flag to the CTUIR, along with witnessing a procession that was opened and closed by the big drum to mark the 15th year the day has been recognized.

The CTUIR flag was adopted by the General Council in May 2001 and by the Board of Trustees on May 20, 2002.

BOT leaders designated May 20 as Flag Day in 2010.

General Council Chairman Alan Crawford and Vice Chairman Michael Ray Johnson provided opening remarks and an invocation, while General Council Secretary Martina Gordon provided the dedication for the flag.

“Our tribal flag is our representation of who we are,” Crawford told attendees. “We want the tribal flag to be flown on our ceded lands. It is in the schools. Last year, we brought one to Ukiah, we brought one to Weston-McEwen High School. Our flag flies at our state capitol.”

CTUIR Education and Training Committee Chairman Boots Pond –who said he was in first grade when the BOT adopted the flag in 2002 – gave this year’s address, saying the day is a day for celebration, honoring, reflection and to carry on the vision of the tribe’s ancestors and leaders who signed the Treaty of 1855.

The flag is a timeless symbol that will always reflect the CTUIR’s history, experiences of its members and the

tribe’s place in its homelands.

“There’s been a lot that’s happened to me to get to this day – some good, some bad. For everyone else, your past to get to this day has been vastly different,” he said. “What has remained unchanged after all this time, what’s remained unchanged, is the way the CTUIR flag carries and will continue to carry [memories]. Our memories as Cayuse, Umatilla, and Walla Walla [people] will survive with the flag.”

During the ceremony, CTUIR military veterans led a procession and posting of the colors, as well as raising the new flag and retiring the old one that had flown outside of the Nixyáawii Governance Center.

The CTUIR flag was adopted by the General Council in May 2001 and by the Board of Trustees on May 20, 2002. BOT leaders designated May 20 as Flag Day in 2010.

2025 Happy Canyon Appreciation Award honors two women

PENDLETON - The Happy Canyon Board of Directors The Awards began the awards in 1982 to recognize those key individuals who are devoted and have gone above and beyond to see the continuing success of Happy Canyon.

TRINETTE MINTHORN

Trinette Minthorn is a fifth generation show participant, and her family has taken part in the show since the Tribal scenes were added in 1916. She is also a relative of Anna Minthorn Wannassay, who helped Roy Raley write the current script around 1916, adding in the beautiful Tribal scenes we enjoy today.

Trinette began in the show as a baby in a baby board which is what show volunteers like to call “voluntold”. Her family, including her mom, Theresa Parker, put Trinette in the parts performing at the top of the scenery with the Tribal actors in Regalia – this scene is beautiful as the Tribe lines across the top of the wooden scenery.

Trinette then was asked to act in the beginning of the show in the morning scenes with Loretta Pinkham Alexander, who performed part of the weaving demonstration. This was a huge honor for Trinette to do this part with Loretta.

In 2007, Trinette was asked by Armand Minthorn and Marjorie Waheneka to help with narration. The Happy Canyon Show narration is a key and important part of the show, and she continues to serve in narration

today. The narration was added in 2002 to help the audience understand the traditions and culture of the Tribal member scenes.

Trinette’s children are now also performing key parts, continuing her long family tradition. They each have the same love of the show and its legacy in their family.

To Trinette, Happy Canyon means legacy and the story of family, partnerships and relationships. One of her favorite memories of the show was

CTUIR tribal member military veterans participate in posting of the colors outside the Nixyáawii Governance Center during the tribe’s annual Flag Day ceremony on May 20, 2025.

CORINNE SAMS

Board Member at Large

It’s only been more than 100 days since the Trump Administration took office. The Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation (CTUIR) recognizes our people, and the community may be wondering how we as a sovereign government are ensuring we are prepared to mitigate for any potential impacts under this current administration. The rigorous presidential executive orders, Department of Government Efficiency cuts, loss of Diversity Equity and Inclusion (DEI), and deportation news in mainstream media have all plagued our daily lives. Seeing the regression of our country in real time is certainly frightening. Witnessing the Supreme Court having to block presidential actions that are clearly unconstitutional is maddening. As we navigate through the complexity of every potential impact of this administration, we ask for your patience, support, and prayers.

CTUIR is communicating diligently with our congressional delegations across all our usual and accustomed territories. We continue to engage in robust discussions with tribes, governors, and state representatives. We are partnered with the Affiliated Tribes of the Northwest Indians (ATNI), National Congress of American Indians (NCAI), Columbia River Inter-Tribal Fish Commission (CRITFC) and many other states and their respected agencies, as well

as non-governmental organizations aligned with our priorities. CTUIR’s Washington, D.C., lobbyists are hitting Capitol Hill every day on our behalf and frequently communicating information as it becomes available. We have been fortunate that impacts have been minimal to date. The Board of Trustees (BOT) is also planning to hit Capitol Hill in D.C. in a continued effort to ensure our sovereignty, funding, and reserved treaty rights are protected. Our battle with the United States government to uphold its trust responsibility has not changed under any administration. However, with every different administration the battle comes with balance. We must choose our battles strategically and with certainty. This political climate is challenging and will take strategic and precise execution of prioritizing gain over these next few years.

As specific impacts are identified and mitigation measures are strategically planned, we will be transparent in our efforts. Wildhorse, Yellowhawk, Cayuse Holdings are working through their respective strategies and reporting back to the BOT as issues arise. The BOT has also directed the Office of Executive Director to coordinate updates to the General Council as needed. Our past leaders did an exceptional job with long-term financial contingency planning as well as long-term investment portfolios that will protect our direct services to tribal members in years we see reductions in

other funding sources.

We continue to be informed of federal workforce cuts in many federal agencies with which we directly co-manage our natural resources. Potential cuts to funding related to fish restoration, water, energy, and climate resiliency will contribute to more loss of our already dwindling anadromous fish populations. As Natitayt we uphold our promise to the waters, lands, foods, and everything that resides on it regardless of the challenges we face. Protect, preserve, and enhance is what we work toward every day. Creator’s gifts are no longer infinite. We share these gifts with many others throughout our territories. Our stewardship extends beyond ourselves and benefits entire

Continued on page 7

$14 •

Pendleton welcomes back professional golf: 2025 Wildhorse Ladies Golf Classic tees off in August

Qualifying Tour of the LPGA, for the Fourth Consecutive Year

PENDLETON — Wildhorse Resort & Casino, owned and operated by the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation, today announced the return of the Wildhorse Ladies Golf Classic. The tournament will take place Aug. 15–17 at Wildhorse Golf Course, located on the resort grounds. The field will feature athletes from around the world competing to earn LPGA Tour membership through the Epson Tour’s Race for the Card, a season-long points competition.

The tournament’s return marks the fourth consecutive year of partnership between Wildhorse Resort & Casino and the Epson Tour. The 2024 event saw Thailand’s Pornanong Phatlum break the 54-hole scoring record at 21 under par and claim her first Epson Tour victory.

Phatlum was one of 15 Epson Tour players who earned LPGA Tour membership at the end of the 2024 season, 13 of whom competed in last year’s Wildhorse Ladies Golf Classic, underscoring the tournament’s draw and the impact of Race for the Card.

“We are honored to welcome these inspiring professional athletes to our tribal lands in Eastern Oregon,” said Gary E. George, CEO of Wildhorse

Resort & Casino. “Our Wildhorse Ladies Golf Classic is representative of economic systems working together to benefit the tribe and community as we grow the game.”

Sponsors and partners are drawn in from around the state and region, which is critical to the event’s continued success. Last year, the tournament secured 54 sponsorships from partners looking to be part of the vision of golf in Eastern Oregon. 2024’s sponsorships total is more than a 68 percent increase from the previous year’s total. Exclusive sponsorship events and benefits take place the week of the tournament, including Pro-Ams starting on Monday, Aug. 11.

The tournament is played over three days, with an expected field of 140 golf professionals playing 18 holes per day. General admission tickets are $12 and cover all three competition days.

Wildhorse Resort & Casino Club Wild members can receive free admission by visiting the player’s desk during the tournament week.

Children aged 15 and under are admitted free when accompanied by a ticket holder.

Tickets can be purchased online by visiting wildhorseresort.com/2025epson-tour-page.

For information on sponsorship

packages, visit wildhorseresort. com/2025-epson-tour-page/ sponsorships.

The success of this golf tournament relies on more than 125 volunteers who perform duties integral to the operation of a professional sporting event. Individuals interested in volunteering are encouraged to sign up here: wildhorseresort.com/2025-epsonvolunteer-registration.

About Wildhorse Resort & Casino:

Located just off I-84 at Exit 216 in Pendleton, Oregon, Wildhorse Resort & Casino is the premier family destination in Eastern Oregon and Southwest Washington. The resort offers something for everyone, featuring two 18-hole golf courses, a tower hotel, diverse dining options, a worldclass casino with more than 1,100 slot machines and table games, live Keno, Bingo, a movie theater, bowling, an arcade, and an RV park.

Wildhorse Resort & Casino is proudly owned and operated by the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation. For more information, visit: wildhorseresort. com.

The Epson Tour is the official qualifying tour of the LPGA Tour and enters its 45th competitive season in 2025.

With the support of entitlement partner Seiko Epson Corporation, the Tour’s mission is to prepare the world’s best female professional golfers for a successful career on the LPGA Tour.

In the last decade, the Epson Tour has grown from 15 tournaments and $1.6 million in prize money to $5 million awarded across 20 events in 2025.

In all, 134 LPGA Tour titles have been won by Epson Tour graduates, including 20 major championships. Follow the Epson Tour at epsontour. com, as well as Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

ABOUT THE CUJ

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

Publisher: Kaeleen McGuire kaeleenmcguire@ctuir.org

Editor: (vacant)

Reporter: Chris Aadland christopheraadland@ctuir.org

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

Contributors:

Kathy Aney

Dallas Dick

Annie Fowler

Lee Gavin

Sammantha McCloud

Wil Phinney

Travis Snell

Aaron Worden

Confederated Umatilla Journal 46411 Timine Way Pendleton, OR 97801

Email: CUJ@ctuir.org

Phone: 541-429-7005

EMAIL ADVERTISING, LETTERS TO THE EDITOR & OTHER SUBMISSIONS TO: CUJ@ctuir.org

DEADLINE: 20th of the month prior to publication

The CUJ prints on the first Wednesday of each month and is distributed the first Thursday.

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

For more information or daily news, visit the CUJ online at: www.TheCUJ.org

Tickets On Sale as Wildhorse Resort & Casino Hosts the Epson Tour Stop, the Official

7X ENTRY MULTIPLIER

Play with your Club Wild card every Monday and increase your entries 7X!

FRIDAYS • 7–10pm SATURDAYS • 4–7pm

Club Wild card must be properly inserted and accepted to earn entry multiplier from 4am–Midnight.

GRAND PRIZE DRAWING

Three winners choose seven prize pieces to reveal prizes. Choose seven 7s and instantly win $17,000

SATURDAY, JUNE 28 • 7:30pm

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

Our Youth Powwow Winners

Tiny Tot Girls:

1st – Lael Moses

2nd – Nakiah Crowe

3rd – Jophiel Shimmel

Tiny Tots Boys:

1st – Wyatt Jones

2nd – Tristen Watchman

3rd – Tyasin Williams

1st Grade – 4th Grade Girls:

1st – Luna Gottfriedson

2nd – Marceline Gottfriedson

3rd – Nila Mayfield

1st Grade – 4th Grade Boys:

1st – Bronson Treloar

2nd – Gabriel Chavez

3rd – Himiin Halfmoon

5th Grade – 8th Grade Girls:

1st – Kelsey Jones

2nd – Taylor Van Pelt

3rd – Hazel Quaempts

5th Grade – 8th Grade Boys:

1st – Josh Selam

2nd – Harley Schollfield

High School Girls:

1st – Johnny Good Rider

2nd – Trysita Rogers

3rd – Renee Stairs

High School Boys:

1st – Lawrence Johnson

2nd – Landon Schollfield

Recognition Awards:

“I Came to Dance”

Gabriel Chavez & Nicholi Mayfield

“Healthy Risk Takers”

Karlee Rogers & Emi Lozano

Continued from page 1 “Happy Canyon Appreciation” both the 100th Round-Up Anniversary and the 100th Happy Canyon Anniversary, when the grandstands were very full of people each night. She was so honored to speak the narration to the hundreds of people and thus, teach them about the history and

Trinette’s viewpoint of the show is a unique one, as the narrator’s booth overlooks the Happy Canyon set and she gets to see the show from a whole other viewpoint that most will not see – including watching the audience reaction each evening as the beautiful show unfolds.

Trinette said, “The wonderful thing about Happy Canyon is making new memories with the Happy Canyon cast and her family each year. I really enjoy hearing the children telling their stories each night of what happened in the show or behind the scenes as they make their memories.”

One of her favorite parts of the show

is the live orchestra and how it sets the stage and the cues for the cast, which is so important.

Trinette said, “Happy Canyon means tradition, family, and relationships with both the city of Pendleton and our local tribes and the neighboring tribes that come to participate. We are not forgetting where we have come from. We are ensuring our ancestors who began the Happy Canyon show get to see us continue this important tradition”.

Trinette believes that how we come together to work to put on the show is beautiful and forms a great partnership with families participating in and playing roles vital to history.

ANNE LIVINGSTON

Anne Livingston has had the best seat in the house at Happy Canyon for over 22 years and has watched around 88 shows from beginning to end. Anne has assisted the Show Director in the Director’s booth since 2002, when Allen Waggoner realized he needed someone to take notes and help him record ways the show could adjust and change as the show unfolds each night.

With her gift of management, Anne was a perfect fit for this role and truly became the second set of ears and eyes ever since. In this role, Anne has taken notes that the Show Director points out during the show as well as writing down important ways the Happy Canyon show could improve acts, timing, and logistics.

In this role, Anne has served four show directors, including Jason Hill, Harper Jones, and now Becky Waggoner. She has been key to each of them.

To Anne the Happy Canyon show

Embrace a New Chapter

means community. Anne said, “To the outside patrons it is a show, but to those of us who come to perform and support behind the scenes, it is a special reunion of our extended Happy Canyon family, Tribal and non-Tribal, as one. This is one of my favorite parts of being involved in the show. I love seeing the cast behind the scenes gathered in

always a fun and unpredictable part of the show.”

Anne is proud of Happy Canyon. It’s important in 2025 as the Tribal community and non-Tribal communities work together to respect the Happy Canyon Pageant tradition that all our families have valued for generations. It displays to our guests our

groups catching up and telling stories and seeing the camaraderie of the cast and crew.”

One of Anne’s favorite parts of the show is the Medicine Man scene – it has so much visual beauty and activity. Anne said, “For me, it creates a vision of what these moments could have looked like in the past. The animals, like the pheasants and horses and oxen, the frozen deer, the stuffed ducks... , are

respect and commitment to preserving one of the most unique parts of Pendleton and our one-of-a-kind show!

The golden thread of Happy Canyon is her volunteers and Trinette and Anne are two examples of what has contributed to 109 years of success and longevity at Happy Canyon.

Thank you again Trinette Minthorn and Anne Livingston!

regions and its citizens. Impacts on our natural resources will be felt for miles. This is an opportunity for Pacific Northwest tribes and states to inspire future generations by setting aside our differences and working together in conservation for all our interests and shared resources.

We all have an individual responsibility to stay vigilant and current on information. Personally, I only visit trusted news sources and fact check articles. I pay attention to the economy, inflation, supply chains, and other critical daily essential services that impact my household. Making household changes that reflect trends or projected economic hardships is something to be mindful of. I have also utilized www.theimpactproject.org. The Impact Project provides objective, transparent, and open-sourced data to help explain how federal policies, funding, and workforce changes affect our communities. In addition to staying informed I also encourage individuals to vote in all local, county, state, and federal elections. We must vote for candidates who are well-versed in tribal and federal law, understanding the political differences between treaty tribes versus restored tribes, and executive order tribes. Delegates who will work to secure tribal-specific funding obligations, respect, and practice tribal consultation processes.

The Cayuse, Umatilla, and Walla Walla people have stood strong against devastating challenges since we signed our Treaty of 1855 with the United States, June 9 on the banks of Mill Creek in the Walla Walla Valley. Our

unwritten law, teachings, connection to our water and foods has sustained our way of life since the beginning of time. Our ancestor’s vision and words have gifted us with unprecedented resilience. The CTUIR have always been here and will continue to remain here. Our unwavering consistency and commitment to our way of life is exactly how we can work together to ensure CTUIR and our people continue to thrive during this volatile political climate. Together we have survived genocide, colonialism, boarding schools, relocation, sterilization, and WE ARE STILL HERE. We have continued to prevail and build stronger futures for generations to come. We must stand together as we have done since creation. One heart, one mind, one people.

“Together we have survived genocide, colonialism, boarding schools, relocation, sterilization, and WE ARE STILL HERE.”

Golden mussels and other invasive species threaten Oregon

SALEM, Ore. – The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) is ramping up its efforts to protect the state’s lakes, rivers, and streams from aquatic invasive species. Seasonal boat inspection stations are now open, and roving crews will be out this year at boat ramps offering watercraft inspections and decontamination.

Even though Oregon agencies have not detected the presence of invasive freshwater mussels in our waterways, the risk is now higher than ever before. In addition to the longstanding concern over quagga and zebra mussels, golden mussels were found in California last year.

“Golden mussels were detected for the first time in North America last year which means the threat to Oregon is very serious,” said Keith DeHart, ODFW Invasive Species Coordinator.

“Golden mussels are similar to zebra or quagga mussels, but they can establish in a much wider range of temperatures and water salinity,” added DeHart.

Combined with quagga mussel detections in Idaho in the Snake River last year and in 2023, the risk of aquatic invasive species spreading to Oregon waterways has been steadily increasing.

Invasive freshwater mussels can damage water infrastructure, such as irrigation and hydropower systems. Invasive freshwater mussels can also degrade water quality and limit recreational activities such as fishing and boating.

ODFW and the Oregon State Marine Board manage the state’s watercraft inspection stations at five entry points around the state. Anyone transporting any type of watercraft—

motorized or non-motorized—must stop at open boat inspection stations. This includes kayaks, canoes, rafts, and stand-up paddleboards.

DeHart recommended that boaters can make the process of boat inspections quick and easy by cleaning and draining watercraft before leaving a waterbody. He noted that all boaters must pull their watercraft’s drain plug before leaving Oregon’s waterbodies.

“Clean, drain, and dry is the most effective way to prevent the spread of invasive species,” said DeHart. “And having a clean and dry boat is also the fastest way to get through an inspection station.”

How to know a boat inspection station is open: Open stations are clearly marked with large, orange Boat Inspection Ahead signs, followed by Inspection Required for All Watercraft.

Inspection station hours vary by day and season. Inspections and any necessary decontamination are free of charge, funded by Oregon’s Waterway Access Permit program.

Inspection Station Locations:

Ashland – I-5 at the Ashland Port of Entry

Brookings – Hwy. 101 at the Brookings weigh station

Klamath Falls (new location 2025) –US-97 at the Midland Rest Area

Ontario – I-84 at the Ontario Rest Area

Umatilla – Hwy. 730 at the Umatilla Port of Entry

Roving Stations – Crews may set up temporary inspection sites at various boat ramps across the state.

For more information on protecting Oregon’s waterways and to buy a Waterway Access Permit, visit ODFW’s

To learn more about invasive species, Key Conservation Issues affecting Oregon, and the State Wildlife

Action Plan, visit: https://www. oregonconservationstrategy.org/keyconservation-issue/invasive-species/

aquatic invasive species page.

Reviving coiled cedar basket weaving

October 2024 to May 2025: The summary of the activities shared in this AWS Report are aligned and are integral parts of the Family Engagement Program (FEP).

AWS InCommunities Eastern Oregon Fund has accepted our proposal for our Reviving Coiled Cedar Basket Weaving project and we were allocated $5,000.00.

FEP strives to be a part of the Tribal community that preserves and retains the identity and unity of tribal families. Providing cultural excursions and workshops allows individuals the opportunity to connect with the land, practice treaty rights, learn traditional skills (foods). We believe that cultural connections, healing, spirituality and life-long learning are key to the healthy development and relationships of our people. We are proud to follow a seasonal round as we walk alongside families. We understand that experience and observation are powerful in the process of learning. We value the power of storytelling and sharing lived experiences. We understand our people do well when coached and are provided opportunities for skill development.

CEDAR ROOT PULLING EXCURSION: The Family Engagement partners with the CTUIR Department of Natural Resources – Cultural Resource Protection Program, Cultural Practitioners and Nixyaawii Community School.

The location of this excursion is Sandy River, Troutdale, Oregon along the Columbia River near Portland, Oregon. The camp includes traveling down the Columbia River known as Nchi Wana to the peoples of the river. We intentionally provided stops at locations we can share information about, like the Three-Mile Canyon. This is a location where tribal members can camp and launch their boat. We discussed the flooding of Celilo Falls which ignited the creation of some of the sites where we stopped. The schedule and further description of our project activities are included in the flyers in this section.

AWS InCommunities Eastern Oregon Fund assisted with defraying the expenses of Excursions and gatherings. Costs included gas for company vehicles, mileage for private vehicles of participants, hotel and camping costs, as well as the food and materials for Cedar root harvesting activities.

The participants in the activities of this project greatly appreciated the experience. This was the first time experience to harvest cedar roots for several of them. Some recalled stories told by their grandparents. Those who own cedar root baskets that were passed on to them marvel at the wisdom of their ancestors. How did their forefathers consider cedar roots as materials for basket weaving? How did they arrive at the intricate and beautiful designs of the baskets? Some of these baskets were used to fetch water from the river to their living quarters. With the guidance of the master weavers, the participants, with awe, successfully replicated the complicated steps to weave coiled cedar root baskets, a very long process that could try one’s patience. Several participants decided on shorter-term goals. They settled for finishing coasters

instead of a full basket with aspirations to venture into making a basket in the future. Below, we share the process to make the Coiled Cedar Root Baskets: Identifying the Cedar Trees Cedar trees with roots that were ready to be harvested were identified by staff members of the CTUIR Department of Natural Resources (DNR). The implementation of this project was made possible by collaborating with other departments, agencies and community members.

Continued on page 10

Harvesting the Cedar Roots. The techniques of harvesting the cedar roots by pulling them were demonstrated and participants observed. Participants were guided by DNR staff as they carried out the process of cedar root harvesting. Participants gathered for pictures with the harvested roots.

Preparing the Cedar Roots After cleaning off the dirt from the roots, their barks were scraped away to prepare them for splitting.

A delicate process, participants observed the steps taken by expert Master elders and consultants to carry out the procedure of splitting the root prior to doing the delicate procedure themselves. A finished product of this process is the raw material that is made into baskets by weaving.

Some harvested cedar roots were not pliable enough to split. Some were hard and brittle. These roots were soaked in basins or vats of water for 48 hours or more before splitting them. Cedar Root Processing Workshops were held from October 8-10, 2024, to ensure that participants learn how to process the cedar roots for basket weaving.

Basket Weaving Several completed coiled cedar baskets were displayed on the table. Varied in size, shape and design, they inspire participants to imagine and create their own baskets. Processed cedar roots vary in colors, hues and shades ranging from very light, almost white, and beige, to ecru to gold to very dark, almost black brown. Participants used these attributes to figure out varied geometric designs to weave onto their baskets.

Wildhorse Foundation awards $515k in quarterly grant funding

MISSION – The Wildhorse Foundation, a community fund managed by the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation (CTUIR) in partnership with Wildhorse Resort & Casino, announced its grant awards for the first quarter of 2025.

A total of 40 organizations were awarded grants this period, in amounts ranging from $2,249 to $30,000, for projects in the areas of Public Health, Public Safety, Arts, Education, Environmental Protection, Historic Preservation and Cultural Activities. The total amount awarded this quarter was $515,757.

In addition to the quarterly grants, five organizations recently received Rapid Response Grants in amounts of $1,500 or less. Rapid Response Grants are intended for small and immediate needs that surface throughout the

year, and funding decisions are made within 30 days from an application’s submission.

For a list of this quarter’s recipients, visit https://bit.ly/4jdJrfr

Each year, the Wildhorse Foundation makes grants to eligible nonprofit, government and tribal organizations within the homeland area of the Cayuse, Umatilla and Walla Walla people. Also eligible for funding are tribal government agencies or Native American charitable organizations with their base of operations within Oregon, as well as national or regional Indian organizations.

The Wildhorse Foundation has awarded a total of over $19 million in grant funding since its establishment in 2001. Grants are awarded on a quarterly basis with the deadlines being January 1, April 1, July 1, and October 1

A $3.4 billion dollar settlement was approved in a class action lawsuit, called Cobell v. Salazar, that claimed individual Indian land, funds and other assets were mismanaged by the federal government. $38 million is available to pay heirs and awards could be significant.

Here’s what you need

Who is eligible?

You are eligible for a money award if you are an heir of one or more of the over 17,000 Individual Indian Money (IIM) account holders whose Cobell settlement awards were not distributed. You must submit a claim form with proof that you are an heir. Claim forms can be submitted online or can be downloaded and mailed to the administrator by June 30, 2025 More details are available on the website.

Heir eligibility proof includes any of the following:

• A state or tribal probate order identifying estate heirs; or

• A last will and testament approved by a probate order; or

• A small estate document from an approved state in accordance with small estate procedures; or

• Documentation showing the appointment of an estate Executor, Administrator, or Personal Representative; or

• A federal probate order that directs distribution of trust funds or trust lands.

A copy of a tribal, or state, or federal probate order is needed to establish whether the Settlement Administrator can pay the heir(s) directly for the estate's Settlement award.

If you do not have a tribal or state probate order but a personal representative or executor has been named for the estate, funds may be released to the representative or executor and they will be responsible for distributing the funds according to the wishes of the deceased Class Member.

You must act quickly.

The deadline to file is June 30, 2025.

After the deadline, all remaining funds will be distributed to the Cobell Scholarship Fund, which is managed by Indigenous Education, Inc.

Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation Board of Trustees

BOARD OF TRUSTEES

MINUTES April 14, 2025

Monday at 9:00 AM Board of Trustees Chambers and via Teams

Ascertainment of Quorum. BOT

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

Agenda Review. MOTION: Roberta Wilson moves to approve agenda with action items only. Steven Hart seconds. Discussion. Question. Motion carries 7-0-0.

Old Business: Polled Motion: Next number 25-002: Subject: PL 280 Retrocession Testimony. BOT

Authorizes Corinne Sams, BOT Member and any key technical staff to give testimony on Oregon SB 1011 on April 22 at 1 PM at Salem. MOTION: Raymond Huesties moves to ratify polled Motion 25-002. Toby Patrick seconds. Discussion. Question. Motion carries 5-0-0..

New Business: Proposed Resolutions: Proposed Resolutions: Next resolution number is 25-036: None.

Other Board Action Items: None.

BOT Travel or External Meeting Reports. None.

BOT Leave and Travel or Outside Meeting Requests.

Aaron Ashley, travel 9/29-10/02 to

Tucson, AZ to attend 2nd Annual Enrollment and Enhanced Tribal Card Program Conference.

Polled leaves:

Corinne Sams, 4/11 from 11 am to 4 pm.

Toby Patrick, 4/11 from 11 am to 4 pm. MOTION: Corinne Sams moves to approve and ratify leave requests. Raymond Huesties seconds. Discussion. question. Motion carries 7-0-0.

BOARD OF TRUSTEES

MINUTES April 21, 2025, Monday at 9:00 AM Board of Trustees Chambers and via Teams

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

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

Old Business: Polled Motion: Next number 25-002: Subject: PL 280 Retrocession Testimony.

BOT Authorizes Corinne Sams, BOT Member and any key technical staff to give testimony on Oregon SB 1011 on April 22 at 1 PM at Salem. MOTION: Raymond Huesties moves to ratify polled Motion 25-002. Toby Patrick seconds. Discussion. Question. Motion carries 5-0-0.

New Business: Proposed Resolutions: Next resolution number is 25-036: Resolution Topic: Umatilla Electric Company Umatilla to Westland Transmission Line Confidential Mitigation Agreement. RESOLVED, that the Board of Trustees hereby approves the Confidential Mitigation Agreement attached to this Resolution as Exhibit lC and authorizes its Chairman to execute it on behalf of the Confederated Tribes and to take such further action and execute other documents, if any, that are necessary to carry out the purposes of the Confidential Mitigation Agreement and this Resolution; MOTION: Toby Patrick moves to adopt Resolution 25-036. Raymond Huesties seconds. Discussion. Question. Motion carries 5-0-0.

Other Board Action Items: None.

Other Board Action Items: None

New Business: Proposed Resolutions: Next resolution number is

Other Board Action Items: None.

BOT Travel or External Meeting Reports. Deferred.

BOT Leave and Travel or Outside Meeting Requests: Gary Burke, 2/2022 to attend Four Chairs meeting at Kah-Nee-Ta. MOTION: Raymond Huesties moves to approve travel request. Alan Crawford seconds. Discussion. Question. Motion carries 8-0-0.

BOT Travel or External Meeting Reports. Deferred.

BOT Leave and Travel or Outside Meeting Requests. Roberta Wilson, personal leave 4/24 all day.

Steven Hart, travel request from 9/29

to 10/01 to Tucson, AZ to attend 3rd Annual Tribal Enrollment and Enhanced Tribal Card Conference. MOTION: Raymond Huesties moves to approve leave requests. Toby Patrick seconds. Discussion. Question. Motion carries 5-0-0.

BOARD OF TRUSTEES

MINUTES April 28, 2025, Monday at 9:00 AM Board of Trustees Chambers and via Teams

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

Agenda Review. MOTION: Raymond Huesties moves to approve agenda. Corinne Sams seconds. Discussion. Question. Motion carries 6-0-0.

Old Business: Polled Motion: Next number 25-003: Subject: Participate in Semi-monthly virtual call with office of Governor Kotek. MOTION: Corinne Sams moves to ratify Polled Motion 25-003. Raymond Huesties seconds. Discussion. Question. Motion carries 6-0-0.

New Business: Proposed Resolutions: Next resolution number is 25-037: None.

Other Board Action Items: i. Commission/Committee Update by Roberta Wilson, BOT Secretary. Cultural Resource Committee, 3

Gary I. Burke Chairman

Aaron Ashley Vice Chairman

Raymond Huesties Treasurer

Roberta J. Wilson Secretary Alan Crawford General Council Chairman

Corinne Sams Member at Large

Lisa Ganuelas Member at Large

Toby Patrick Member at Large

Steven Hart Member at Large

CTUIR Board of Trustees Minutes

positions advertised, 5 applications from James Halfmoon-FastHorse; Isaiah Welch; Marjorie Waheneka; DeArcie Abraham and Julius Patrick. MOTION: Corinne Sams moves to approve appointments by secret ballot to appoint Julius Patrick and Isaiah Welch the two applicants with most votes to 2-year terms, and Marjorie Waheneka to serve a 1.5-year term. Steven Hart seconds. Discussion. Question. Motion carries 6-0-0.

Tribal Water Commission, 1 position advertised for 2-year term with 1 application from John Barkley. MOTION: Raymond Huesties moves to reappoint John Barkley by acclamation to the Tribal Water Commission for a 2-year term ending April 14, 2027. Steven Hart seconds. Discussion. Question. Motion carries 6-0-0.

Removal(s) - none; Resignation - none. Terms expiring: Dorothy Cyr, Health Commission, April 1. Cami Lewis, Housing Commission May 3. Lawanda Bronson, TERO Commission May 8.

Public Notice dated June 3rd will advertise the following positions: 2 for CTUIR Culture Coalition for 3-year term, meets as needed. 1 for Health Commission, for 2-year term, meets 2nd & 4th Tues. at 3:30 PM at YTHC. 1 for Housing Commission, 2-year term, meets 1st & 3rd Tues. at 1:30 PM. 1 for TERO Commission, 2-year term, meeting 1st & 3rd Tues. at 1:30 PM. MOTION: Corinne Sams moves to advertise vacancies. Toby Patrick seconds. Discussion. Question. Motion carries 6-0-0.

All applications are due Mon. May 26 by 4 PM and a BOT work session is scheduled for Fri. May 30 with appointments being made on June 2nd.

Wildhorse Foundation HR Report. MOTION: Raymond Huesties moves to approve the Wildhorse Foundation Report. Steven Hart seconds. Discussion. Question. Motion carries 6-0-0.

Other Board Action Items: None.

BOT Travel or External Meeting Reports. Aaron Ashley, April 14 to Portland to attend the Tribal Nations Advisory Committee meeting. Deferred.

BOT Leave and Travel or Outside Meeting Requests. Corinne Sams, four requests: travel, 4/30 to 5/2 to Portland to attend US v. OR meetings. travel, 5/25/3 to Seattle, WA and Northern Quest Resort to attend the WCA Gala. travel, 5/11-15 to Northern Quest Resort to attend ATNI. Polled personal leave on 4/24 from 1 to 4 pm.

Lisa Ganuelas, personal leave 4/15 for 6.5 hrs. and April 16 to 20 for 30 hrs.

Steven Hart, personal leave 4/21 all day. Steven Hart, personal leave all day 5/23 all day.

Roberta Wilson polled personal leave 4/23 for 6.5 hrs. and 4/27 all day.

MOTION: Raymond Huesties moves to approve leave requests. Steven Hart seconds. Discussion. Question. Motion carries 6-0-0.

Tribe recognizes missing and murdered members

CHRIS AADLAND

The CUJ

MISSION - The Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation recognized missing and murdered Indigenous people last month with events meant to raise awareness and honor the memory of tribal members who have been victims of violence or gone missing.

May is recognized as Missing and Murdered Indigenous People month across the country, with May 5 being Missing and Murdered Indigenous Person’s Awareness Day.

The CTUIR’s Family Violence Services recognized that by opening a month of raising awareness with a

ceremony and prayer outside of the Nixyáawii Governance Center and walk around the building on May 5.

“This matter is very real, very true,” said Merle Kirk, who spoke about her experiences with losing loved ones to the crisis at the event, the importance of community support and need to continue to raise awareness. “We have a lot of people that we’re still waiting, praying for closure yet for our relatives. I pray that we all get that.”

Later that day, CTUIR tribal member Mildred Quaempts joined advocates and the state Legislature’s two Indigenous lawmakers in Salem to call on leaders to continue to work to address the MMIP crisis in Oregon and build on legislation enacted in recent

years meant to combat the problem.

“I just want to emphasize again, this is an issue that’s been ongoing for a very, very long time,” said Rep. Tawna Sanchez, D-Portland, the Salem Statesman Journal reported. “It’s so deeply important that we recognize it, that we do our due diligence to make change and shifts so that it just doesn’t happen over and over again; that people in a particular community, and unfortunately, a lot of vulnerable communities, go missing or are murdered and no one says anything.”

Quaempts, who has lost several family members to the crisis, helped lead a May 30 event with a prayer and song marked the end of the month outside of the NGC and brought a framed copy of

Continued on page 17

a proclamation from Gov. Tina Kotek declaring May 5 Murdered or Missing Indigenous Persons Awareness Day in Oregon.

The CTUIR’s Family Violence Services hosted an annual missing and murdered Indigenous people event on May 5, 2025 that included displays of messages of support or names of community members who have faced violence or gone missing to raise awareness of the issue.

Continued from page 16 “Tribe recognizes”

“Last year, the First Lady and I had the honor of visiting all nine sovereign Tribal nations. We met with families of Tribal citizens who are missing or murdered,” Kotek said in a statement about the proclamation. “Today we honor the Indigenous women, girls,

men, and two-spirit relatives who have been taken from their families. We stand with communities who grieve, who continue to search, and who keep memories alive through red dresses, ceremony, and advocacy. Their strength calls us to remember and to act.”

CTUIR tribal member Merle Kirk, left, speaks during the CTUIR Family Violence Services missing and murdered Indigenous people remembrance event outside of the Nixyáawii Governance Center on May 5, 2025.

Pictured From left to right: Mildred Quaempts, Merle Kirk Keeyana Mata and Mavis Mata

BE PREPARED FOR A WILDFIRE

May 2018

FEMA V-1013/

May 2018

A wildfire is an unplanned fire that burns in a natural area such as a forest, grassland, or prairie.

as a forest, grassland, or prairie.

Often caused by humans or lightning. Can cause flooding or create problems with transportation, gas, power, and communications.

Can damage your property. Set up defense zones to protect your home.

Can happen anywhere, anytime. Risk increases with little rain and high winds.

IF YOU ARE UNDER A WILDFIRE WARNING, GET TO SAFETY RIGHT AWAY

Leave if told to do so.

If trapped, call 911.

Listen for emergency information and alerts.

Use an N95 mask to keep particles out of the air you breathe.

IMESD Honors 2025 Crystal Apple Award winners

LA GRANDE & PENDLETON

– InterMountain Education Service District (IMESD) and its component

school districts recently presented the 2025 Crystal Apple “Excellence in Education” Awards. A total of 46

Crystal Apples were presented in May to deserving education staff in Eastern Oregon.

On Monday, May 5, winners from Union County school districts were honored at the event at Eastern Oregon University in La Grande. Winners from Morrow County and Umatilla County school districts were honored at the event at the Pendleton Convention Center on Tuesday, May 13. The events included receptions for winners’ families and friends and school district staff.

Each year, the IMESD partners with its school districts to recognize outstanding administrators, teachers, educational assistants and office and building staff for their dedication and commitment to students and for their willingness to go the extra mile for student success. Nominations are submitted over a two-month period by administrators, coworkers, parents, students and community members. Winners are selected from

these nominations by school district administration.

“Crystal Apple Awards season is something we look forward to every year. It’s a privilege each spring to recognize the many talented and dedicated employees who serve students at IMESD and in our districts across the region,” said Michele Madril, IMESD Director of Communication.

The IMESD would like to thank our 2025 Crystal Apple Award sponsors: CHI St. Anthony Hospital, First Community Credit Union and Wheatland Insurance.

Rez dogs and cats get free veterinary care

CHRIS AADLAND

The CUJ

MISSION - Instead of a red fire truck, kennels filled with dozens of dogs and cats filled one of the Umatilla Tribal Fire Department station’s parking bays over the weekend as veterinarians and others who work with pets sat and comforted them.

The dogs and cats – some barking or hissing while others slept – had been brought by their owners for free veterinary care provided by Portland-based nonprofit First Veterans Veterinary and two dozen or so volunteers who spent the weekend working to reduce pet overpopulation on the Umatilla Indian Reservation and provide access to basic veterinary care so those pets could live healthier lives.

Thanks to a grant from the Wildhorse Foundation, the nonprofit provided free care – spay or neuter services, basic vaccines, nail trimmings and flea and tick treatment, among others – for 100 pets and owners who lived within the boundaries of the Umatilla Indian Reservation on May 31 and June 1.

Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation Animal Control Office Kendyl DeJong worked to bring the clinic to the reservation.

“It’s to prevent homeless pets, basically, and lower our risk of roaming dogs,” she said of the free clinic’s purpose.

Though DeJong been able to

provide some vaccine and spay and neuter services in the past, this is the first time she’s been able to bring such a large-scale operation to the reservation.

In addition, there are free or reduced cost clinics that provide similar services available to tribal members, but those don’t come to the reservation and require the pet to be transported to a

clinic hours away – and there’s usually a waiting list that can be one year long.

For many Indigenous people living on reservations and in low-income communities, a lack of accessible and affordable veterinary services can mean pets not getting basic health care, like annual vaccines, or unwanted puppies and kittens contributing to stray and

feral dog and cat populations that cause problems, like dog bites and mauling incidents.

That’s why First Nations Director Gina Clemmer, a member of the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma and Muscogee descendant, started the nonprofit after several years of

Nixyaawii Winner Carrie Phinney receives apple cup

First Nations Veterinary Crew in front of the mobile veterinary clinic.

Yellowhawk Fun Run winners

Men’s 10k winners: 1st place – Joe Pitt, 2nd place – Noah Dickerson, 3rd place – Clifford Stanger (not pictured)

Women’s 5k winners: 1st place – Alex Vasquez, 2nd place – Alyssa Treloar (not pictured), 3rd place – Rae Ann Oatman

Women’s 10k winners: 1st place – Anna Eshelam, 2nd place – Sammantha McCloud, 3rd place – Shandiin Yessilith

Men’s 5k winners: 1st place – Sun Schimmel, 2nd place – Gabe Rock, 3rd place - Zack Speakman

Women’s 1-mile winners: 1st place – Sis Moses, 2nd place – Sistine Moses, 3rd place – Nicholi Mayfield

Men’s 1-mile winners: 1st place – Landon Schofield, 2nd place –Roy D. Jones, 3rd place – Harley Schofield

Pendleton Boys capture GOL District track title

ANNIE FOWLER

ONTARIO — John Thatcher won two individual events and the Pendleton boys won the team title at the Greater Oregon League Championships on Friday, May 23, at Earl Blackaby Track.

The top two finishers in each event automatically qualify for the 4A State Championships May 30-31 at Hayward Field in Eugene. There are wildcard spots available, but they won’t be awarded until all district meets are completed.

Thatcher won the 200 with a time of 22.64 seconds, then turned in a time of 50.57 to win the 400.

Thatcher then teamed up with Quinn Kennedy, Kael Kennedy and Carter Cary to place second in the 4x100 relay with a time of 43.59. Ontario won the event with a time of 43.55.

In the 4x400 relay, Cary, Kael Kennedy, Jaydon Hoffert and Thatcher

placed second with a time of 3:33.35 — their best of the season.

Cary also placed second in the 300 hurdles with a time of 42.20, 4 seconds behind Baker’s Rasean Jones, who won with an impressive time of 38.21. Cary also was third in the 400 (52.03).

Pendleton’s Jack Reynolds won the 3,000 with a PR of 9:35.47, and was second in the 1,500 with a time of 4:21.62.

Pendleton’s Jaren Yoshioka took home the javelin title with a toss of 1546.

The Bucks got a double bonus in the pole vault as William Michael won with a height of 12-11.75, and Zeland Gardner was second at 10-4.

Hoffert finished the day for the Bucks with a district title in the triple jump with a leap of 41-5. He also was third in the high jump (5-6.5).

The Bucks compiled 90.5 points to win the team title, with Baker second

(78), La Grande third (58.5) and host Ontario fourth (37).

The La Grande girls ran away with

the team title with 109 points, with Pendleton second with 69, followed by

Pendleton’s boys team - photo by Kathey Aney

Continued on page 4

Baker (60) and Ontario (26).

In the javelin, La Grande’s Aubrey Bisenuis won with a PR of 115-9, while Pendleton’s Nicole Somnis was second (104-4), Nessa Neveau was third (1025) and Edmonds fourth (99-4).

In the discus, Pendleton’s Nessa Neveau was second (98-4) and Ellery Flerchinger third (94-8).

Pendleton’s Kaitlyn Edmonds punched her ticket to state in the shot put, placing second with a PR of 347.5. Teammate Gabrielle Kennedy was fourth at 32-2, and Flerchinger was fifth with a PR of 29-6.25.

Hazel Case did her part for the Bucks, placing second in the 100 hurdles (16.64) and the long jump (165.25). Melissa Tune was second in the 800 (2:33.75).

Kayle Smith won the pole vault title for Pendleton with a height of 9-0.5. McKenzie Shelden won the triple jump with a PR of 33-1.25, while Lexie Wilman was second (31-6.25).

2A SPECIAL DISTRICT 4 CHAMPIONSHIPS — WestonMcEwen won five events and earned plenty of points from its third through eighth-place athletes to win the girls district title at Ward Rhoden Stadium in Prineville.

The top two finishers in each event automatically qualify for the 2A State Championships May 29-30 at Hayward Field in Eugene. There are wildcard spots available, but they won’t be awarded until all district meets are completed.

The TigerScots rolled up 145 points, with Addy Hall leading the way.

Hall won the 300 hurdles (48.30) and was second in the 100 hurdles (16.71) and second in the 100 with a PR of 13.19. Kelsey Graham won the 100 hurdles with a PR of 16.64.

Graham, Hall, Charlotte Hansell and Brynn Browie put together a state qualifying 4x100 team, placing second with a time of 51.54.

Hansell picked up a gold medal in the long jump with a PR of 15-2.75, and was second in the triple jump (31-7).

Bree Perkins captured the high jump title with a height of 4-7.75, and Hailey Monroe won the javelin with a PR of 110-5.25. Teammate Delaynee Angell was second with a PR of 99-6.

The Weston-McEwen boys followed the girls’ footsteps, winning the district team title with 142.5 points. Enterprise was second (127.5), with Stanfield third (89), Heppner fifth (50) and Irrigon seventh (29).

Wyatt Parsons won the 100 with a PR of 10.94 — the first time he’s ever gone under 11 seconds. He also was second in the 200 (23.08) and in the long jump (20-10).

Parsons joined Tristan Weseman, Logan Ray and Easton Berry to win the 4x100 relay with a time of 44.02.

Weseman also won the long jump with a PR of 21-0.75, while Berry won the 300 hurdles with a PR of 43.28.

Jace Dunlap won the shot put with a PR of 47-1.5, and teammate Cason Pettyjohn second with a PR of 41-1.75. Dylan Monaco was second in the javelin with a PR of 152-4.

In the distances, David Webb earned a trip to state for the TigerScots in the 3,000, placing second with a PR of 10:20.20.

Webb was tangled up with two other runners at the start of the race and went down, dislocating his shoulder. The race was restarted and he insisted on running. The move earned him a trip to state.

1A SPECIAL DISTRICT 3 CHAMPIONSHIPS — Pilot Rock’s Carter Ford was the standout sprinter on the track during the two-day event at the Deschutes River Athletic Complex in Maupin.

His efforts netted him MVP honors at the district meet.

The speedy senior won the 100 meters Friday with a time of 11.48, just off his PR of 11.41 that he ran in Thursday’s prelims. He ran a PR of 22.95 to win the 200.

Ford also won the 400 meters with a time of 51.93 — one second better than second-place Jayden Havins of Condon.

Ford was third the past two years at district in the 400, just missing out on a trip to state.

“He had a hell of a day,” Pilot Rock coach Tyler Zyph said. “He’s worked harder than any kid I’ve coached. Since he placed third last year, he hasn’t stopped lifting and running. He deserves everything that happened today.”

The top two finishers in each event automatically qualify for the 1A State Championships May 29-30 at Hayward Field in Eugene. There are wildcard spots available, but they won’t be awarded until all district meets are completed.

Horizon Christian ran away with the team title, rolling up 140 points. Condon was a distant second with 68, and South Wasco County was third (65). Griswold tied for sixth with 38 points along with Nixyaawii and Glenwood. Pilot Rock was ninth (37) and Ione was 14th (14).

In the girls meet, Echo scored 130 points for the team title, while Trout Lake was a distant second. Griswold was sixth (57), while Pilot Rock was 10th (20).

Pilot Rock’s Lillie Holman won the discus with a toss of 91-1 and will throw at state.

Pendleton’s Nessa Neveau throwing discuss - photo by Kathey Aney

Pendleton’s Jubal Hoisington throwing javelin - photo by Kathey Aney

Congratulations Graduates! Class of 2025

Jeanette Jones

B.A. Political Science & Minor in Native American Studies University of Oregon

Brave Johnson Jefferson High School Portland, OR

Marley Johnson B.A. Communications Cal Poly Humboldt

Isabel Kathryn Brigham Watchman Stevenson High School Stevenson, WA

Cole Foy Soaring Eagle White Swan High School White Swan, WA

Kiana Watchman M.A. Journalism University of Arizona

Cody Wahl Nixyaawii Community School Pendleton, OR

Cody Williams Weston McEwen High School Athena, OR

Krister Litfin Pilot Rock High School United States Marines

Halona J. DeMary Pendleton High School Pendleton, OR

Addison Justice Carey Weston McEwen High School Athena, OR

Miranda Josephine Dixson Pendleton High School Pendleton, OR

Cooper Tallman, Valedictorian Collinsville High School Collinsville, Oklahoma

Adrienne J. Farrow Colorado State University Global

M.A. Healthcare Administration (with distinguished honors)

Celia Farrow A.A. Social Work Haskell Indian Nations University

Congratulations Class of 2025 continued

Lauralee Stanger

Nixyaawii Community School

Full-ride scholarship to Whitman College

Aaron Luke B.S. Renewable Energy

& Environmental Sciences

Institution of Technology

Brendan Dearing B.S. Mechanical Engineering Oregon State University

Tru Hunter Pendleton High School Pendleton, OR

Demetrius Thomas Anderson B.S. Computer Science Arizona State University

Joleen Wolf Weston McEwen High School Athena, OR

Ava Roe La Grande High School La Grande, OR

Sahara Cartee La Grande High School La Grande, OR

Ariel Martin Weston McEwen High School Athena, OR

Miranda Martin Weston McEwen High School Athena, OR

Sierra Cartee La Grande High School La Grande, OR

Kenai Huff La Grande High School La Grande, OR

Faith Middleton La Grande High School La Grande, OR

Dylan Monaco Weston McEwen High School Athena, OR

Terry Lindell Jr. Weston McEwen High School Athena, OR

Randy Dick Weston McEwen High School Athena, OR

Ashlynn Paige Wallace B.A. Child Development University of Idaho

Maurice Bronson Certificate Program Tribal Vocational Rehabilitation Services Northwest Indian College

Trinity Treloar B.A. Accounting Portland State University

Jiselle Halfmoon Certificate Program Tribal Web Development | Law, Technology and Governance University of Arizona

Congratulations Class of 2025 continued

CTUIR Weather Report

May 2025

Not Pictured:

Savannah R. Sammaripa., A.A. Business, Northwest Indian College

Evelyn Galloway B.S., M.A. LMT, M.A. Education, Fort Lewis College

Cloe McMichael, B. A. History/Ethnic Studies, Oregon State University

Candice Patrick, A.A. Business Administration, Blue Mountain Community College

Jayd Eke, B.A. Forestry and Wildland Fire Management, Salish Kootenai College

Erick Sheoships, A.A. Uncrewed (Unmanned) Systems, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University

Weather information summarizes data taken at Pendleton Weather Station Lat 45 40 N and Lon -118 51 W from May 1 to May 28. Temperature is reported in degrees Fahrenheit and Pacific Standard Time.

The average daily temperature was 71.8 degrees, with a high of 85 degrees on May 25 and a low of 33 degrees on May 5th. The deviation from normal was +0.9 degrees.

Total precipitation in March was 0.62, with the greatest 24-hour average of 0.39 on May 17. Five days out of the month had precipitation levels greater than .01 inches, two days greater than 0.10 inches, and zero days greater than 0.50”. There was a deviation of -0.63” from the average for the month of May.

The average wind speed was 9.8 mph, with a sustained max speed of 35.0 mph from the West on May 2. A peak speed of 48 mph occurred from the West on May 2. The dominant wind direction was from the West.

There were 1 Thunderstorm, 5 days out of 30 in which some rain fell. Air Quality Index Values were Healthy/Green for the entire month of May.

Brianah Matamoros Nixyaawii Community School Pendleton, OR

Maya Elaine Case Pendleton High School Pendleton, OR

Rare 4-year starter just doing her part

Sams is a key component of Pendleton’s success

ANNIE FOWLER

PENDLETON — Pendleton has one of the most successful and highly regarded softball programs in the state. Players make their mark, some play at a higher level, but senior Ella Sams is one of the rare ones that has been a four-year starter.

“Being a four-year starter, that says something right there,” longtime Pendleton coach Tim Cary said. “There have been a few others, but she is an amazing player. A tremendous player. She is a hard worker and a tremendous leader. You have to be the full package. The player, the attitude, the leader. She has been all of that the past four years.”

The 5-foot-2 Sams, who is a Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation descendant through her mom Nikki Sams, has been a fixture at second base since her freshman year.

She has been a part of two state championships — 5A in 2022 and 4A in 2024 — and heading into this year’s state playoffs, she has helped her team to a 102-14 record over the past four seasons.

“That is a neat stat,” Cary said. “We just try to win one at a time. A third state title would be something. You just don’t get to do that very often in high school.”

Sams has done her part to get the Bucks (22-3 overall) to the playoffs this spring.

She has started all 25 games, hitting .447 with 34 hits. Of those, 22 are singles, eight doubles and four home runs. She also has 30 RBIs and a team-high 42 runs scored. She has only struck out four times in 76 at-bats.

“She does everything we ask her to do and then some,” Cary said. “In the summer, she gets a lot of at-bats and that helps mold her. She just gets more experience.”

Defensively, she has committed just five errors in 57 chances for a .912 fielding percentage. She has also been part of three double plays.

“You are always supposed to back up your pitcher,” Sams said. “Kendall (Murphy) is amazing and we all are supposed to have her back. I just back her up and try and get the out.”

Playoff bound

The Bucks are the No. 5 seed in the 4A state playoffs, while Greater Oregon League foe La Grande is No. 2 and on the opposite side of the bracket.

“It’s really fun,” Sams said of the postseason. “Before state playoffs, we

have a team dinner, play games and make more memories. If we have to travel, the bus rides create more team memories and that makes us stronger.”

Pendleton won the GOL title with a sweep of the Tigers on May 16. The teams had identical 10-2 records, but the Bucks were named the champs based on league criteria.

Sams had a big day May 16. In the opener, she went 3-for-4 with a home run and two RBIs. In the second game, she was 4-for-5 with a home run, a double and three RBIs.

“I felt I needed to be a leader for my team,” Sams said. “I think we had the potential to beat them and that showed.

Continued on page 9

The past two weeks, we have been playing more as a team than before, taking down La Grande and No. 1 St. Helens.”

The Bucks will begin the 4A playoffs on May 27. This is the time of year that Sams truly loves.

“Pendleton has been a great program for me,” she said. “In my four years, I think we have only lost 10 or 15 games. Three state titles would be amazing. Thanks to the community, the coaches and my family for four amazing years at Pendleton. It has been a blast.”

Cary couldn’t agree more.

“I can’t say enough good things about her,” Cary said. “I can’t even make a list. She is kind of our mother hen. She makes sure everything runs smoothly. We are going to miss her leadership.”

For the love of the game

Sams comes from a basketball family, and she played through the eighth grade, but since then she has put her focus on softball.

Sams has played softball since she was in grade school. She played travel ball in the summer for Oregon East, and when she was 14 years old, she started playing for the Washington Angels bases out of the Tri-Cities. She will play for them again this summer.

“I have been playing with girls from the Tri-Cities for quite a while,” she said. “Kendall is on my team, and there is a girl from Lewiston (Idaho) and two from Spokane. It’s a great program. This summer, we are going to Colorado and California. Last fall, we went to Kansas City.”

Through the years, she has been at second base or shortstop.

“When I was little, my dad (Ryan) always moved us around,” she said “I played shortstop and second in travel ball, but I prefer second. It has been my home for the last six years.”

Sams’ skill level speaks volumes, and college coaches have taken notice.

She has signed to play at Walla Walla Community College, but Cary said there was a lot of interest besides the Warriors.

“College always ask about them, especially when they are juniors,” Cary said. “I get so many college coaches asking about them. Most of the college coaches can’t watch them in the spring. They basically watch them in the summer. She was looked at by many college coaches. We will be rooting her on at Walla Walla.”

At WWCC, Sams will be reunited with former Pendleton teammate Maddy Schumacher.

“Maddy has one more year and Chloe (Taber) just got done playing there,” Sams said. “They went to the NWAC tournament (finishing 2-2). They were pretty good this year.”

Sams plans to major in elementary education, then would like to return to Pendleton and take Cary’s job.

“Ella and I talked about that,” he said. “She said she wants to be a teacher. I said, ‘cool, you can come back and be my assistant coach then take over.’ She said, ‘deal.’ We will help her get there.”

NEWLY ARRIVED

Beadwork Style Designs

By Mikailah!

This exciting collection of apparel and accessories featuring the look of beadwork designs is created by Mikailah Thompson. Mikailah learned as a child to bead from her grandmother, Chloe Halfmoon. Today she blends contemporary and Nimiipu inﬂuences to create t-shirts, sweatshirts, shorts, shoulder bags, and wrapping paper with colorful beadwork style designs and other iconic art.

ARTISTS RECEPTION & AWARDS CEREMONY

202 5 ArtWORKz Junior Art Show & Competition

Saturday, June 14 1pm-3pm

Join the artists and their families to celebrate the incredible talent of these young artists and see who won awards! Free and open to the public. Refreshments will be served. Thank you St. Anthony Hospital and Blick Art Materials!

2025 ArtWORKZ JUNIOR ART SHOW & COMPETITION

Closes July 5

View the incredible artwork submitted by talented youth from all over the region. Over 100 pieces of art are on display featuring paintings, drawings, sculptures, photography, ceramics, and traditional arts. You'll be amazed at the work done by youth as young as 5 years old. Thank you to St. Anthony Hospital and Blick Art Materials.

FREE FIRST FRIDAY!

FREE admission all day at Tamástslikt Cultural Institute.

June 6, 10am-5pm

FREE admission all day. Dine inside at Kinship Cafe or order take-out. Enjoy Indian Tacos ($10.50) and Frybread ($5) from 11am-2pm.

Shop the Museum Store for amazing native artworks. Visit our newest exhibit, 2025 ArtWORKz Junior Art Show & Competition!

Nixyaawii’s Van Pelt, Schimmel Headed to State

ANNIE FOWLER

MAUPIN — Nixyaawii’s Jayden Van Pelt is celebrating his senior season in style.

Van Pelt unleashed a personal best throw in discus of 130-10 on Thursday in the first day of action at the 1A Special District 3 Championships at the Deschutes River Athletic Complex to finish second and punch his ticket to the 1A state track meet.

Van Pelt, a senior who is competing in track for the first time, had a personal best of 116-7 going into the district championships.

Freshman Pili Tutucanu of Arlington won the event with a toss of 132-9.

Sophomore Sun Schimmel will join Van Pelt at state after winning the high jump with a PR of 5-8. It was only his fifth meet this spring that he competed in the event.

Schimmel will also compete at state in the 800 meters after winning the race with a PR of 2:04.68. His time is an improvement of 3 seconds from his previous best.

Schimmel made the finals of the 200 but finished fifth with a time of 24.21.

Noah Pearson finished third in the pole vault for the Golden Eagles with a height of 8-4.75. Trout Lake’s Sawyer Dean, the top pole vaulter in the state regardless of classification, won the

event at 15-0.25.

The Golden Eagles finished tied for sixth in the team standings with Griswold with 38 points. Horizon Christian won the team title with 140 points, with Condon a distant second with 68.

Nixyaawii’s Sun Schimmel won the high jump at the 1A Special District 3 Championships on May 23, 2025, in Maupin.

Jayden Van Pelt 2nd in Discus

Tristan Weseman triple jumps at the Buck Classic track meet on May 9, 2025, at Pendleton High School.

Pendleton’s Neistadt Seventh at 4A State Golf Tournament

ANNIE FOWLER

BLUE RIVER — Pendleton’s Landon Neistadt shot a second-day 76 to move up the leaderboard and placed seventh at the 4A boys state golf tournament May 20, at Tokatee Golf Club.

Neistadt, who shot an 83 on the first day, finished with a 159. He is the highest placing Pendleton golfer since Nathan Som placed 13th in 2017 with a 163.

Landon had an exceptional day,” Pendleton coach Marc Sokoloski said.

“It’s his best round by far in a year. He moved up 15 to 20 spots from when he came in today.”

Owen Bascom of North Bend took medalist honors with a two-round 142, with Massimo Cereghino second with a 145.

Seaside won the team title with a 640, followed closely by Marist with a 647. North Bend was a distant third with a 662, followed by Baker (665), Cascade (676) and Pendleton, which was sixth with a 685.

“ We didn’t have a good day at all

yesterday,” Sokoloski said. “To be honest, we played our way out of state hardware (top four teams get a trophy) the first day. We were 21 strokes back. I’m super proud of the way they came back.”

Neistadt shot par on 11 of 18 holes on the first day, then had birdies on holes three and 12 during the second round, along with par on 10 holes.

“It’s a super good course and super tough course,” Sokoloski said. “But it’s also a fair course. The thing Landon did today was manage the course very well.”

Also scoring for the Bucks were Garrett Reinhart (30th, 88-86 — 174), Mason Morioka (T31st, 88-87 — 175) and Cole Sazue (37th, 92-85 — 177).

Sheldon Joseph was 54th with a 194, but his score did not figure into the team standings.

Morioka was 20th at state last year, while Neistadt was 38th.

“As a team, we have a really bright future,” Sokoloski said. “We bring back four of the five we took to state.”

The Pendleton boys golf team finished sixth in the teams standings May 20, 2025, in Blue River. Team members include Sheldon Joseph (from left), Landon Neistadt, Cole Sazue, coach Marc Sokoloski, Mason Marioka and Garrett Reinhart

Photo courtesy of Marc Sokoloski

By ANNIE FOWLER

In the last regular season of the Women National Football Conference (WNFC) The Oregon Ravens hosted the Seattle Majestics at Milwaukie High School on May 17. In this game CTUIR member Kola Shippentower (29) playing for the Oregon Ravens. She is also the co-captain for the team. Seattle took over on the game with a win over the Oregon Ravens 52–0. To end the season for the Ravens with only one win in the league, which was played on May 3rd over the Las Vegas Silver Stars 28–25.

During half time drummers and dancers preformed from CTUIR and Grand Ronde tribes. To inform of the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women (MMIW). Dancers are Tommy Thompson and Abraham Shippentower

Photo by Dallas Dick

Tommy Thompson (left) and Abraham Shippentower (right) - Photo by Dallas Dick

Crow’s Shadow Presents New Monotype Series by Phillip Cash Cash

Pendleton, OR - Crow’s Shadow is pleased to release this new monotype series by Phillip Cash Cash, created during his residency in January. This series presents a vibrant suite of unique monotype prints that fuse lithography with hand-inked monoprinting, producing one-of-a-kind expressions with a color pallet reflecting the classic beadwork of the people of the Columbia Plateau.

Through sharp geometries, layered color fields, and symbolic forms, the works speak to both geological vastness and personal place. Cash Cash’s experimental approach evokes movement across land and memory, interwoven with his deep connection to Native identity, language, and landscape.

Created in collaboration with master printer Alyssa Ebinger, TMP each piece reflects a tactile and intuitive printmaking process. Rich blacks, punchy primaries, and subtle pastel tones converge in compositions that are at once fragmented and whole, honoring the complexity of land and the legacy of those who inhabit it.

Dr. Phillip Cash Cash (Nez Perce, Cayuse) is a visual artist, writer, and linguist whose work bridges cultural preservation and contemporary art. A fluent speaker of the Nez Perce language, his art reflects his dedication to revitalizing Indigenous knowledge systems through creative expression. His practice often explores the intersections of language, land, and memory, blending traditional imagery with innovative forms. As a founder of Crow’s Shadow Institute of the Arts, Cash Cash has been a pivotal figure in advancing and celebrating Native art. His work encompasses printmaking, sculpture, and mixed media, drawing inspiration from cultural narratives and the natural environment. His pieces convey layered stories, creating connections between historical continuity and personal reflection. Cash Cash holds doctorates in both linguistics and anthropology, grounding his art in deep cultural inquiry and community engagement. His practice represents a synthesis of academic insight and artistic exploration, offering a compelling vision of contemporary Indigenous identity rooted in language, place, and artistic tradition.

Available now to view and purchase on our website.

Phillip Cash Cash

Monotype by Phillip Cash Cash

Continued from page 1 “Rez dogs and cats” volunteering for similar organizations.

“What we want to do is try and get ahead of that,” Clemmer said. “So, we don’t charge anything for any of these services.”

A spay operation for a larger dog can cost $600, she said, adding that each of these clinics prevent about 300 births.

“I believe that high-volume spay and neuter is the root solution to solving the overpopulation of animals, especially on many reservations,” Clemmer, who also runs a software company for highvolume spay and neuter operations like First Nations, said. “Many reservations are what are considered a veterinary desert.”

When First Nations began offering its services three years ago, it initially only provided care on the Warm Springs Indian Reservation but has now branched out to work with several other tribal nations in Oregon and Arizona, with plans to expand to even more reservations next year.

At the UTFD station on Saturday, First Nations used a large box truck set up as a mobile clinic to efficiently conduct each spay and neuter procedure. Afterwards, pets on Saturday were brought into the fire state to recover from their surgery and receive other care from volunteers who specialize in high-volume spay and neuter care. Some volunteers came from as far away as California.

The Umatilla Indian Reservation doesn’t have a serious stray dog problem like many other reservations, DeJong said, because the CTUIR has been committed to the Animal Control Officer position that she’s held for more than eight years. Many tribal nations don’t have someone working in that type of role, DeJong and Clemmer said. But there is a “serious problem” with

feral cats on the reservation, she said. They cause problems, like getting into community gardens to dig up plants or burrowing under buildings

and homes, where they cause havoc and create unpleasant odors because of their urine, or are killed by roaming dogs, DeJong said.

Already, First Nations is scheduled to return next year to offer the same services, Clemmer and DeJong said.

Dog undergoes anesthesia at the vet clinic

Veterinarian treats a local dog

Tátwin Tour, photos by Chris Aadland

Participants pose for a group photo at Tátwin, formerly known as the Rainwater Wildlife Area, on May 29, 2025. The group, mostly Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation Department of Natural Resources staff members, toured the CTUIR’s 11,000 acre wildlife area to learn more about how the tribe is managing the land and its First Foods resources.

Tátwin’s project lead, Jerry Middel, explains to tour participants different logging methods the CTUIR is using to enhance habitat health at the wildlife area in Columbia County, Washington.

Lindsay Chiono, assistant project lead at Tátwin, helps a tour participant identify tree species taking hold after a recent timber harvest project meant to improve forest health.

MONDAY, JUNE 9, 2025