May 6, 2021 CUJ

Confederated Umatilla Journal

The monthly newspaper of the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation ~ Pendleton, Oregon May 2021

Section

A

Volume 29, Issue 5

Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation Board of Trustee members Jeremy Wolf, left, and Sandra Sampson, second from left, will appear in the May 6 episode of Bravo TV’s, ‘Top Chef’ Courtesy Top Chef along with several other Tribal members, including Linda Sampson, who is sitting to the right of Sandra. Guest judge Dale Talde and ‘Top Chef’ host Padma Lakshmi listen intently.

CTUIR makes appearance on Bravo reality TV show

By Miranda Vega Rector of the CUJ

Hand-picked roots and salmon paired with television cameras and chefs when the cast and crew of Bravo’s “Top Chef” gathered with members of the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation (CTUIR) on the banks of the Columbia River.

“Top Chef,” currently in season 18 with the CTUIR episode airing May 6, is an Emmy and James Beard award-winning reality television series that features chefs competing against each other in culinary challenges. This season has a new batch of 15 “All-Star” chefs that include previous winners, finalists and fan favorites, vying for the coveted title in the city of Portland.

Episode 6 will have a surf and turf challenge using Tribal “First Foods,” also known as traditional foods,

‘I’ve never seen a set so amazing. It was a big production, probably a few hundred people.’

- Wenix Red Elk, Public Outreach/ Education Specialist, CTUIR Dept. of Natural Resources

provided by gatherers of the CTUIR and Yellowhawk Tribal Health Center (YTHC). Tribal members Wenix Red Elk and Linda Sampson did a First Foods presentation for the contestants explaining the traditional ways of preserving the different meats and how the Tribes gathered, cultivated, and prepared the different roots and medicines.

The initial plan was to do the presentation outside on Thunder Island – which is connected to Cascade Locks - but Mother Nature had her own plans. Red Elk

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

Tribal members involved in ‘Top Chef’ episode featuring First Foods surf and turf

said it was raining more than she had seen in a while, which forced them to improvise and film in Cascade Locks under a tent.

“It was raining hard,” said Red Elk. “We were totally soaked from head to toe. My moccasins were soaked, everything was wet.”

She also explained that due to the pandemic, everyone had to be very careful and keep their distance.

Arriving on set, she knew that the crew had been in their own “bubble” and had been getting tested several times a week. CTUIR participants, and those from other tribes, also had to provide documentation of negative COVID tests when they arrived at the filming location.

Compliance with testing was coordinated by the CTUIR Communications Department and Yellowhawk Tribal Health Center. Because of this, she was expecting only a handful of people to be present but to her shock, that was not the case.

“I’ve never seen a set so amazing, it was a big production, probably a few hundred people,” said Red Elk. “It was really an amazing experience.”

Top Chef on page 18A

COVID-19: Yellowhawk receives regional recognition for work during pandemic Story begins on 2A

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

HEALTH

Health Commission member Kathleen Elliot, Yellowhawk CEO Lisa Guzman, Health Commission Chair Martina Gordon, BOT Chair Kat Brigham, Aaron Hines, and Ethel Hogge pose for a photo after receiving the 2021 Regional Tribal Public Health Innovation Award in April.

CUJ Photo/Miranda Vega Rector

Yellowhawk receives regional recognition Tribal Health Center goes over a month without positive case; two emerge on May 4, however

By Cary Rosenbaum of the CUJ

MISSION - It was a notable streak during the COVID-19 pandemic. Six weeks had passed before Yellowhawk Tribal Health Center saw a positive test.

“Our last positive case was on March 17,” Yellowhawk CEO Lisa Guzman said in the days prior to two positives emerging on May 4.

The local numbers were a major highlight in a month that saw Yellowhawk also receive regional recognition from the National Indian Health Board.

The 2021 Regional Tribal Public Health Innovation

Confederated Umatilla Journal

46411 Timine Way Pendleton, OR 97801 Phone 541-429-7005

May 2021

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

Award was announced on April 29. It acknowledges an organization whose work has affected change or impacted health care on the regional and/or tribal level.

“Over the last year, Yellowhawk has developed a Public Health Infrastructure that provides COVID-19 testing, tracing and vaccination services,” Guzman said. “From a leadership standpoint, this year has been difficult, but the Yellowhawk staff have stepped up to the plate and performed great with all the additional pandemic responsibilities.”

Additional staff had to be hired to support the public health infrastructure Guzman said.

“This took long hours of recruitment and training,” she said. “In providing mass vaccination events at Wildhorse Resort & Casino, Yellowhawk staff created a positive partnership with Oregon National Guard and increased the number of vaccinations over a twomonth period to assist Umatilla County to vaccinate surrounding communities.”

The most recent mass vaccination was held on May Yellowhawk on page 3A

Yellowhawk Tribal Health Centers opened up vaccinations to residents living within CTUIR’s 6.4 million-acre ceded territory.

CEO Lisa Guzman hoped 1,100 more residents would sign up for vaccinations as of mid-April.

CTUIR graphic

... The monthly newspaper for the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation Publish date

Ad deadline

News deadline

June 6

May 18

May 25

July 1

June 15

June 22

August 5

July 20

July 27

September 2

August 17

August 24

October 7

September 21

September 28

Confederated Umatilla Journal

2A

Yellowhawk Continued from page 2A

3, where more than 700 individuals received their second dose.

“Yellowhawk has responded to not only the Umatilla Indian Reservation, but has provided support to all Umatilla County residents in providing COVID-19 vaccinations,” Guzman said.

On April 12, Yellowhawk announced it would open up vaccinations to 11 counties across the CTUIR’s 6.4 million-acre ceded territory, which included four in Washington.

At the time, Guzman was looking to add 1,100 more appointments to an already-booked 600.` “We are eager to support our surrounding counties and get more people in the door,” she said.

To date, Yellowhawk has provided 5,252 doses to individuals seeking to get vaccinated that met their qualifications.

Oregon has seen an increase in COVID cases statewide, with nearly 750 new cases and six deaths as of May 4. Sixteen of those cases were in Umatilla County.

Gov. Kate Brown named 15 counties as “extreme risk” for COVID-19 spread. Umatilla County was not among the 15.

Brown said Oregon is in a race between vaccinations and the fast-spreading B.1.1.7 variant, which she said is winning. Overall, Oregon is among the states with the lowest overall case and death counts.

“We can’t let our guard down now,”

Yellowhawk Tribal Health Center CEO Lisa Guzman and CTUIR Board of Trustees Chair Kat Brigham received a $25,000 check from Aaron Hunt, of Union Pacific Railroad, who recognized the CTUIR’s efforts to vaccinate during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Courtesy Photo/Ethel Hogge

Becky Hultberg, CEO of the Oregon Association of Hospitals and Health Systems told Oregon Public Broadcasting in late April.

Guzman said Yellowhawk’s efforts to work with Umatilla County and the State have increased significantly.

“We continue to work on a vaccination plan that will include providing support to youth ages 12 to 18, once vaccinations are approved for this age group,” Guzman said. “Yellowhawk continues to monitor information regarding booster vaccinations that will be required in the

May 2021 Frame & Lenses Sale

near future.”

Paul Rabb, the Incident Commander for the CTUIR, said he feels the Tribe is doing well.

“We have slowly begun to open offices and venues up and monitor the situation daily,” he told the CUJ on May 4.

...................................................

LIKE AND SHARE OUR FACEBOOK POST AND YOU’LL BE ENTERED INTO A DRAWING FOR A FRAME OF YOUR CHOICE, UP TO $150 VALUE! DRAWING 5/31/21.

Buy Complete Pair EYEGLASSES $ And Over $ Off* Get ...................................................

200 50

* Excludes Glass & Safety Eyewear.

Cannot be combined with other sales.

AFFORDABLE FAMILY EYEWEAR

Se Habla Español Same Day Service on Most Prescriptions Dr. Anderson: Saturday Appointments Available Most insurances accepted: MODA, Ameritas, Regence and Many More!

3A

IF YOU ARE USING INSURANCE, PLEASE ASK FOR DETAILS! Confederated Umatilla Journal

541-567-3790 Open Monday to Saturday 298 E Gladys Ave Hermiston, Oregon www.affordablefamilyeyewear.com

May 2021

EDUCATION Sheoships lands Gilman Smith scholarship

By Miranda Vega Rector of the CUJ

MISSION – On March 20 Vincent Sheoships, a Tribal member of the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation (CTUIR), opened an email from the Benton Community Foundation Scholarship Committee awarding him the Helen K. & Harold Gilman Smith Scholarship of $15,000.

“I got the scholarship!” he wrote in an email to his mentor Annie Smith who works as the CTUIR Native American Higher Education coach.

Sheoships, a 21-year-old junior at Oregon State University (OSU), is studying Political Science with the intent to pursue a law degree specializing in Environmental Law. Every year since attending OSU he has been awarded the following scholarships:

May 2021

‘I didn’t really expect the scholarship, honestly.

I’d never heard of the scholarship, but Annie Smith sent it over to me and I thought I would give it a try.’

- Vincent Sheoships, CTUIR member

the CTUIR Scholarship, the Cobell Scholarship, and two from the Oregon Student Access Commission. This is

his first time receiving the Helen K. & Harold Gilman Smith Scholarship.

“I didn’t really expect the scholar-

Confederated Umatilla Journal

ship, honestly,” said Sheoships. “I’d never heard of the scholarship, but Annie Smith sent it over to me and I thought I would give it a try.”

The Helen K. & Harold Gilman Smith Scholarship is offered to Native American students who attend OSU with preference given to those who graduated from a Native American high school. Applicants must also be pursuing their first baccalaureate, or a graduate degree, with intentions to pursue a post-secondary education.

Proof of minimum of a 2.75 GPA is required for the undergraduate’s freshman year of college.

In total, Sheoships has received around $25,000 in scholarship money for the 2021 school year.

4A

EDUCATION CTUIR awarded with Safe Routes to School grant By the CUJ

MISSION - The Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation’s Office of Tribal Planning announced the award of a $1 million grant to improve routes to school on the Umatilla Indian Reservation.

The Safe Routes to School Grant, via the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT), will allow for vital construction improvements in the area, including a crosswalk improvement starting this summer.

According to ODOT, the grant focuses on making sure safe walking and biking routes exist through investments in crossings, sidewalks and bike lanes.

The Office of Tribal Planning, which collaborated with Yellowhawk Tribal Health Center and Nixyaawii Community School, collected input from the community regarding potential improvements and came up with three areas on the Reservation: The crosswalk at the corner of Mission Rd. and HWY 331; a bicycle and pedestrian path on the west side of HWY 331 from Mission Rd. to Timine Way; and school safety zone

5A

signs along Timine Way. Gathering the input was challenging, officials said, due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

“When gathering restrictions lift, the Planning Office hopes to collect additional input from students, parents and family members, and teachers, and update our Transportation System Plan with a chapter on student transportation safety priorities,” officials said. “This will allow the CTUIR to apply for grant funds again in the future to continue making the community safer for the students.”

NCS School Board Chair Randall Melton said he was thrilled by the potential of the grant.

“The Safe Routes project will further the CTUIR’s effort to provide designated and safe pathways for our students to get to and home from school,” he said. “It will also encourage healthy habits such as biking, walking, and running with upgrades to curb ramps, sidewalks, and bike paths.”

Construction is expected to be completed by 2022, officials said.

Confederated Umatilla Journal

May 2021

OPINION/EDITORIAL

Brigham: A thank you during the pandemic

First I would like to thank each one of you for following the three guidelines of being safe; wearing a mask, washing your hands and doing social distancing because of your support our numbers are much lower than some of our neighboring tribes and entities. We know that the Tribal community have had positive cases and it was a very difficult time for them, their families and friends during quarantine. We experienced the loss of one Tribal member and we will keep fighting to make sure we don’t lose another.

It is very disappointing to all us that COVID is still here.

Yellowhawk is still testing and providing vaccines. Because of our actions as a Tribal Community, we have many outside entities asking how CTUIR, Wildhorse Resort Casino (WRC) and Yellowhawk have accomplished being safe.

We let them know that is because of our Tribal Community support in want to be safe. Plus all our front line workers have done a great job.

I know many of us want to be with our family and friends for family gathers, sport activities and many other

Promoting veterans

By The Office of Tribal Veterans

Native American/Alaskan Indians who have served in the U.S. military since WWI not only served and protect the United States Constitution, but also their tribal constitution and by-laws. Does this mean dual citizenship?

Yes it does. And what does this mean to our Tribal Veterans in Indian Country?

• 1787 U.S. Constitution • 1949 CTUIR Constitution and Bylaws • Scouts in U.S. Cavalry • 1898 – Spanish American War- Indians were part of the “Rough Riders” • 1917- Selective Service Act, the draft was passed • 1917- April 6th the war declaration was signed (Germany) • WWI, WWII, Korea, Vietnam Era, Persian Gulf, IraqIran-Kuwait, Afghanistan Our Indian men and women were in all of the above.

Indian population served at 10% to U.S. military. This is the highest of any race. Now we know some of the history of our Indian warriors and veterans.

CUJ Confederated Umatilla Journal

6A

events. Some of us are doing some of these activities but are very worried that many are also attending without following the three guidelines and it is a great concern.

Umatilla County and others are moving backwards therefore Governor Brown is moving them backwards. Therefore it is very important each of you continue to follow the Kat Brigham three guidelines for being safe, wear BOT Chair a mask, wash your hands and do social distancing if the CTUIR Tribal Community is going to move forward.

In March of 2020 Governor Brown called to let us know CTUIR had our first case at WRC. The next step was the BOT put health above economics and not only closed WRC, but also the Education and Senior Centers. Since then our Incident Command Team (ICT) has taken protecting our

Tribal Community very seriously in providing the guideline, testing and vaccines. And our Yellowhawk Tribal Health Center has just been recognized with a Regional Award from the National Indian Health Board for the work done to protect our Tribal Community.

If you have not received your COVID vaccine please call Yellowhawk to make an appointment to get your vaccination to help keep your family and our Tribal Community safe.

It is great that each of our tribal entities have temperature checks before you enter the building, require masks and have hand sanitizers available throughout their buildings.

We are all working really hard to stay safe and I can’t repeat often enough, how proud I am to see your efforts.

Thank you all for wanting to be safe. Thanks! Kat Kat Brigham serves as Chair of the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation’s Board of Trustees. Contact her at katbrigham@ctuir.org.

Coyote Stories: Rest in peace, DMX If you’re from an Indian reservation and were born between the 1970s and 90s, there’s a good chance DMX’s music played a big part in your life.

Earl Simmons -- also known as DMX -was one of the most prevalent storytellers of my generation.

Tragically, he passed away on April 9 at age 50.

Most of my 35 years on the planet have been influenced by rap music. The stories shared in the mainstream genre have a certain relatability to the American Indian struggle. The role of storyteller has Sin-ka-leep (Coyote) been prevalent in our Cary Rosenbaum cultures since time immemorial, so I think it’s natural many of us in that demographic cling to rap as their favorite type of music.

When DMX emerged with the 1998 album, “It’s Dark and Hell is Hot,” it took off on the rez. The artist’s raw lyrics, angry tone and catchy hooks attracted many of us in those days. “Get at me dog” and “Ruff Ryders’ anthem” were a large part of that first album’s success. The storytelling throughout the CD was nothing shy of captivating for me in my teenage years, where CD players, MTV and monstrous boom box systems were part of daily life.

What an era. The memories make me smile.

I bought DMX’s first album 20 years ago in Seattle at age 15, wondering if I’d be

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

asked for my identification due to the black and white explicit lyrics label warning. The small record shop in a less than friendly neighborhood -- which also sold me a shiny Ruff Ryders (DMX’ label) chain necklace and pendant with fake diamonds -- didn’t say no to my money.

The album and style piece went well with my overall hip hop swagger, which included baggy clothing flashy shoes, and -- eventually -- corn rows in my hair.

Those memories make me smile.

In 1999, when DMX released, “And Then There Was X,” he took his career and fans to another DMX level. For me, it was the most intriguing album I’d heard to date.

It was DMX’s most successful album. The Source called it, “a mind-gripping opus that fully encompasses the appeal of one of rap’s newest sensations.”

Coupled with the playing a leading role in the movie, “Belly,” DMX was on top of the rap world.

In a microcosm of his universal success, he may have been on top of the reservation rap world, as well.

For the first time, a rapper’s song caught my parents’ attention. My dad, a country and classic rock musician and enthusiast, would hear, “Party Up (Up in here)” in our rooms or on the radio and start poking fun at it. Though he died in September of 2011, I can still hear him replacing the words,

Interim Publisher:

Jane Hill

Editor: Cary Rosenbaum Reporter: Miranda Vega Rector Intern: Megan Van Pelt

singing, “Tacos make me lose my mind, up in here, up in here.”

The memories make me smile.

When the football movie, “Any Given Sunday” was released in 1999 -- with DMX’s music a major part of the soundtrack -- my life got even more heavily influenced.

My cousin and I created a virtual Miami Sharks team (the fictional franchise from the movie) on Xbox. We successfully won a Super Bowl in a virtual NFL (on easy difficulty) while playing the soundtrack on repeat.

The memory makes me smile.

In the decade following, DMX’s musical career began to descend. Comedian Katt Williams, in 2006, poked fun at DMX in a comedy special my college roommate and I watched over and over again.

For the first time in my life, I found myself laughing at an idol from my adolescence.

Williams poked fun at DMX’s height and angry demeanor in classic lines my friend and I repeated for weeks and weeks.

My buddy died from a drug overdose in October of 2018, but -- even today -- I can still hear his voice copying the comedy skit, and the memory makes me smile.

Looking back on my life, it would not have been the same without DMX. His voice and songs are embedded in my memory, as well as in many others throughout Indian country.

Rest in peace, Earl.

Cary Rosenbaum is the editor of the Confederated Umatilla Journal. Contact him at caryrosenbaum@ctuir.org.

Display advertising rate $5.50 per column inch.

Full page: $297 Three Quarter Page: $223 Half page: $149 Quarter page: $72 Business Card: $33 Full color and spot color available Mail Subscriptions:

$15 per year or $28 for two years.

Confederated Umatilla Journal

16 awards in 2018, including first places for best feature story, feature photo, environmental coverage.

Next CUJ: June 3 Ad deadline: May 18 News deadline: May 25

May 2021

OPINION/EDITORIAL

Pond: Home is always where the heart is

Being homesick can be rough. Deciding to move away from where one was raised, whether temporary or long term is easier to picture in the mind than to go through with the move itself. Heck, packing for a weekend trip can take some time. Making a change, like moving, can be healthy. Home is where the heart is, and home may have to relocate because of a career change, pursing higher education, or to follow a special someone, etc.

Taking that leap of faith by establishing a new residence opens more paths with limitless potential.

About four years ago I officially graduated from college. I was about 2,000 miles away in Michigan. Thinking about it now, the first few weeks as a

freshman were the most difficult part, I had the dorm room blues. Honestly, being far away from where I was raised helped in a sense, I couldn’t just drive home on the weekends. Getting past Boots Pond the initial phase of BOT member missing my family and creating a new home away from home takes time, but is achievable. It takes patience and understanding that adulthood is full of many more responsibilities. Making changes like having a new address is not about

sinking or swimming, but instead it’s about learning and living.

With that said, at the time this piece is published, high school seniors and graduating college students will be looking toward the future and their next steps.

For many, those next steps will include finding another location to be for a time.

Again, the move can be rather difficult due to the separation from familiarity and family. For me, everything was last minute including the college choice in Michigan. After getting a degree it was challenging for me to decide my next steps, which made the transition after college more difficult. Yet, things happen for a reason and I returned home to CTUIR lands after graduating. For oth-

ers, everything will play out differently.

To the enrolled members of the CTUIR for one reason or another making a new place to call home. The reservation will always be here. The treaty rights to gather, hunt, and fish will always be here. Moving to a city like Portland or out of state to pursue more in life is not changing who you are and where you came from. Home will always be where the heart is. Set your mind on where you want to go and take advantage of what is out there.

Boots Pond serves on the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation’s Board of Trustees.

Contact him at bootspond@ctuir.org.

THANK YOU BMCC Powwow thanks dancers and singers Thank you to all the dancers and singers who participated in BMCC's Virtual Powwow.

Thank you judges for volunteering. Fred Hill, Megan Van Pelt, Cara Greene, and Kelsey Burns: Kwalashamatash, your help was much appreciated.

Thank you Oregon Community Foundation for your support. Sincerely, Annie Smith, Native American Liaison and Success Coach.

Thank you BMCC Virtual Powwow speakers: Tyera Pete, Jesse Bevis, and Algin Scabbyrobe.

Junior Boys: 1st place River Rondeau-Blacksun, 2nd place Jesse Bevis Jr, 3rd place Sky Rondeau-Blacksun Junior Girls: 1st place Athena Whiskeyjack, 2nd place Gabriella Calvillo, 3rd place Shirleen Norwest 13 and over men:1st place Turak Andrews, 2nd place Ryan Hill 13 and over women: 1st place RaeDawn Weiser, 2nd place Decole Wilson, 3rd place Aurora Whiskeyjack Hand drum: 1st Henry Rondeau, 2nd Wus Gone, Brian “Chunk” Goatsen, Toby Patrick, 3rd place River Rondeau-Blacksun

Minthorn/Spencer family sends appreciation Family and Friends.

The Minthorn/Spencer Family wishes to convey our sincerest appreciation for your love, prayers, kindness, and support this past year. The memorial/ namings was a beautiful day. It was a day of remembrance and celebration that our loved ones deserved and we appreciate everyone who was able to make it. The Broncheau family would also like to thank all the family and friends that helped contribute to our naming ceremony; without you all, it would not have been possible. We

May 2021

Jesse Bevis Jr. participated in the BMCC Virtual Powwow.

Courtesy Annie Smith

would like to thank everyone for following safety guidelines and wearing masks. Thank you all!

The Family of Lorene Minthorn Spencer/Dirk Spencer/Matthew Minthorn.

Dispatchers get a thank you from UTPD supervisor My name is Rita Allman, Communications Supervisor for Umatilla Tribal Police Department (UTPD). I have worked for the Tribal PD for over thirty years. I would like to recognize the CTUIR telecommunications staff for their dedication. This last year has been one of the toughest. Every April there is a National Telecommunicators Week. This year it was April 11-17, 2021. I want to publicly recognize the UTPD dispatch staff for their hard

work and tireless dedication.

I cannot express the gratitude I have for the dispatchers working every day during the flooding and pandemic in 2020. There were two dispatchers that I am extremely grateful for who worked many hours with no days off for months at a time during Covid.

Due to unforeseen circumstances the UTPD only had three dispatchers for months; Jory Hughes, Jeffrey Iles and myself. The dedication that Jory Hughes has shown every day was amazing. During the 2020 flooding not only did Jory respond to dispatch every day as scheduled, he dealt with his own house being flooded. I know he worked hard for his family when he was off duty, but just as hard at the office every day. Also, Jeffrey Iles had family in need during these months but continued to work every day. The three of us were the only staff to cover 24/7 from mid-April to mid-August.

With the exception of a rare day off we each covered 8 hours and up to 12 hours every day. We worked faithfully to answer calls from the Umatilla Reservation Community and numerous other calls for assistance. Without the dedication of the UTPD communications staff there would be no dispatch for Police, Fire or EMS. I believe that the dispatch center deserves this recognition.

It is our chosen career and we are dedicated to serve and that is precisely what we accomplished.

Thankfully in August and September we were able to hire three more dispatchers to join our team. I am thankful for John Bustard, Kevin

Confederated Umatilla Journal

Dunham and Jennifer Bostwick. Kevin and Jennifer have been dispatchers for years. Kevin has over 20 years of experience and Jennifer over 8 years.

We are thankful and have welcomed them to our team. We appreciate the help and teamwork they have provided to our department. Having time off to rest and spend with family and friends is precious. Please remember on any given day we are working 24/7 to keep our officers, community and Reservation safe. We are look forward to many more years of service to you; our community.

DECD gives shout out to Earth Day volunteers The Department of Economic & Community Development, TERF and Coyote Business Park, would like to say thank you to all the volunteers who took time to help during the CTUIR Community Cleanup – Earth Day 2021.

With your help, more than 680 pounds of garbage was picked up around the Mission area.

A big shout out to the Nixyaawii Community School students, CTUIR employees, the BOLSTER Crew, Public Works Department, Wildhorse Resort & Casino and every single volunteer.

7A

BUSINESS Nixyaawii Chamber of Commerce elects officers By the CUJ

MISSION – The Nixyaawii Chamber of Commerce (NCC) Board of Directors has elected their 2021 officers.

Previous Board of Directors Vice President, Jill-Marie Gavin-Harvey, has been elected as the 2021 President as previous President Mary Liberty-Traughber has moved on to the Past President role.

Gavin-Harvey is a Board of Trustees Member at Large for the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation (CTUIR) and is in the last year of her twoyear term. She is also a strong advocate for small business and is the Tribes’ representative on the Economic and Community Development Committee.

Liberty-Traughber is the Public Relations Manager for Wildhorse Resort & Casino and has served as President since the beginning of 2020.

In leaving her post as President of the NCC, Liberty-Traughber remains dedicated to the future success of the NCC and local small business of the Nixyaawii area.

“One of the best things about our Chamber is the networking, bringing professionals together to share information, sharing tips and leads and to having fun. Clearly, that was our biggest challenge in 2020 and, as President, not a year to shine in the role. The Nixyaawii Chamber was able to provide webinars,

May 2021

make contacts and send information via email. We even awarded three scholarships last year, but we really miss the personal contact with members,” she said.

Liberty-Traughber guided the Board of Directors through a Jill-Marie Gavin-Harvey tumultuous year and helped them stay dedicated to sticking together. She has been able to drum up some excitement for 2021.

“The Board is so excited to plan events for the second half of 2021. We’re optimistic. We have an excellent new president, two new board members and we are so looking forward to the networking and educational opportunities that we can offer. We look forward to continued growth of the chamber and exponential growth for our local businesses,” Liberty-Traughber said.

During elections the Board of Directors selected member Corinne Sams as the new Vice President and new member Briana Spencer as the new Secretary. Sams is also a Member at Large on the CTUIR Board of Trustees and a passionate advocate for upward mobility of Tribal and community members on the UIR. She has a

strong background in workforce development and worked for the Dept of Children and Family Services for many years. She is the Board’s delegated member of the Law Briana Spencer and Order Com mittee.

Spencer was elected by the NCC Membership along with fellow newcomer Shelley Wallis. Wallis is the co-owner of Deanna’s Auto Biz and has worked with Mission community members for years. She is excited to bring her financial background and networking skills to the table over the next few years.

Spencer is a Tribal member of the CTUIR and has a strong background in community organizing.

Jiselle Halfmoon, KCUW Operations Manager, remained a Board member during elections. The Board has yet to elect a Treasurer as previous Treasurer Chad Miltenberger and Secretary Melissa Nathan have finished their terms.

“It has been a trying year, I could not be more grateful for Mary’s strong leadership and dedication to keeping us together through the storm. The entire

Confederated Umatilla Journal

Board was hit with uncertainty and we all did our best but I really need to thank outgoing members Melissa and Chad for their willingness to help us transition,” President Corinne Sams Gavin-Harvey said.

As risk levels fluctuate in Umatilla County, the NCC Board of Directors has remained nimble and hopes to provide extended services this year.

“We have a very enthusiastic group with very innovative ideas for 2021.

COVID, unfortunately, is now a part of our lives and adjustments to how we serve our membership will look different. That being said, I truly believe in this group of leaders. We plan to get back to our TED Talks, Golf Scramble and even a new Bowling fundraiser this summer and fall. Mary said it best, we are optimistic, beyond that, we are resilient. I know that times continue to be uncertain but I have full faith in our Board of Directors that we can help our membership thrive under pressure,” Gavin-Harvey said.

8A

BUSINESS Brock Picard aspires, inspires in Pendleton

By Cary Rosenbaum of the CUJ

PENDLETON - It’s been called a “huge” achievement in the Pendleton area.

CTUIR member Brock Picard, who is autistic, has successfully gained employment with Horizon Project.

“He just landed his first job,” CTUIR Tribal Vocational Rehabilitation Program Manager Susie Calhoun said. “And this is huge within the autistic community to be able to find employers and people Brock Picard willing to support someone’s abilities as well as their goals to have a job.”

Beth Coleman, Horizon Project Director of Program and Services, said Picard is “a great addition to our team. We’d love to see him hired soon!”

Picard, the grandson of Chief Bill Burke, utilized the Pendleton business Trendsitions Incorporated to find a landing spot at Horizon Project, where he helps distribute the mail.

In early March, Picard was featured in a Facebook post by Trendsitions Incorporated. They noted he was “a skilled worker, dedicated to organization and completing quality work.”

“Brock is doing such an amazing job,” Trendsitions Incorporated’s Savannah Taylor said. “This wasn’t something the

CTUIR member Brock Picard, 18, utilized Trendsitions Incorporated in Pendleton to find employment.

family thought he would 100 percent be able to do.”

“He enjoys coming to work, grabbing his backpack, getting in his vehicle to go to the mailroom and getting all the mail,” she added.

“We customized the job for him because he’s pretty high energy,” Ed Cortez, Director of Trendsitions Incor-

porated, said.

Cortez noted the collaboration was a good example of how organizations help one another for the local population.

“This is very reflective of how we partner up in rural Oregon in regards to job development,” Cortez said. “There’s jobs for folks out there. For all of these

Courtesy Susie Calhoun

people that came together to make this happen for Brock is just an amazing partnership.”

Trendsitions Incorporated started in 2009 as an employment agency to assist people with developmental disabilities.

“In this case, it turned out fantastic,” Cortez said, who credited Calhoun for sending Picard their way.

EMPLOYMENT MOVES

From powerlifting to energy, Williams continues professional growth

By Cary Rosenbaum of the CUJ

PORTLAND - CTUIR member Donald Williams continues pushing barriers, both physical and professional.

The powerlifter and now Energy Advisor in the Eastern Oregon region for the Energy Trust of Oregon has stayed busy moving the bar higher for himself in both regards.

“It’s been a great transition for me,” Williams said of his new job.

“It’s just an exciting transition coming from our Tribal government to a larger energy sector.”

On the powerlifting front, the 275-pound man has been setting records in the United States Powerlifting Association with Donald Williams his 450-pound squat, 400-pound bench press and 500-pound deadlift.

“It’s a very big part of who I am mentally and spiritually,” he said.

This weekend in Pasco, Wash., Williams will attempt to break multiple Oregon powerlifting records.

On the work front, Williams was notified

9A

he’d hold the lead position on investigating mechanisms for the Tribes in Oregon to work cooperatively on.

“I’m in position to help all nine tribes in the state of Oregon,” he said.

Williams has worked at Energy Trust of Oregon since Feb. 22. He formerly worked for the CTUIR’s Energy and Environmental Science Program, where he earned high praise from former Executive Director Chuck Sams.

“Donald was a valued member of the Energy and Environmental Science Program in DNR,” Sams said. “He was very helpful in our continued development of our forthcoming energy plan. I am confident he will do well at Energy Trust.”

Williams was a Lab Tech for the CTUIR, where he worked on several projects ranging from Hanford to the Tribe’s energy policy.

He thanked Sams, Modesta Minthorn, Mike Farrow, Matt Johnson, Toby Patrick and Eric Quaempts for assisting his progression.

“Those people were very paramount in my foundation to where I’ve transitioned to,” he said. “It’s been a really unique journey. Now I want to pay it forward someday.”

CTUIR member Donald Williams performs a deadlift at a powerlifting event.

Confederated Umatilla Journal

Courtesy Donald Williams

May 2021

TRIBAL NEWS

Dalles Dam housing discussed Tribes seeking more than one site for housing development

By Miranda Vega Rector of the CUJ

MISSION – Board of Trustees members and employees of the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation (CTUIR) held a work session in April to discuss strategies to move forward with the Columbia River Housing Project.

In the 1930’s with the building of several dams along the Columbia River, many towns and tribal villages were inundated with water. The federal government promised to replace the homes, and towns such as Boardman, Arlington, and North Bonneville towns were rebuilt. However, the tribal villages and fisherman camps were not, with the exception of Celilo Village which has 15 homes and an estimated population of 79 residents.

In 2016, the United States Army Corps of Engineers started The Dalles Dam Village Plan with the intent to rebuild homes for the Umatilla, Nez

Perce, Yakama and Warm Springs tribes. Initially, around 35 sites were identified as a possible location for the village, and after being assessed for feasibility and environmental concerns, and discussed with the four Columbia River treaty tribes, they were able to narrow it down to three potential sites. Currently, there is no consensus around which site to pursue.

“Unless we reach an agreement, and that means all four tribes have to agree, then we can’t do anything,” said Kat Brigham, Chair of the Board of Trustees for the CTUIR. “BIA (Bureau of Indian Affairs) and the U.S. Corps have made it really clear that we have to come to an agreement and if we’re not going to agree then nothing is going to get done.”

Brigham is referring to specifics about the location where homes should be built to replace the lost villages. The tribes are taking into consideration how far from the river the Columbia River homes would be located, what land is available, and whether they are built in Oregon or Washington.

Marcus Luke, CTUIR Housing Director, has attended several meetings with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers,

BIA and other tribes in the past seven years over the project. He said that so far, no decisions have been made and planning is still in the beginning stages.

“We all need better communication, better productivity, and we have to work together in order to get this completed … we all have to be on the same page,” said Luke. “It’s time to regroup and get a village development plan updated.”

Later in the month, the chairs of the four tribes met and made a decision to draft a letter to the Army Corps of Engineers stating their concerns with the process. The letter will ask the Corps to work in partnership with the tribes in developing a housing study and to give the tribes more than one site for development.

“The Corps needs to work with us in developing the sites,” said Brigham.

“One site is not enough because there was more than one village along the Columbia River.”

Brigham continued, “a lot of work has been done for the Columbia River Housing Project, but at the same time there’s no solution yet.”

Registration open for womens veterans conference Registration is now open for the free biennial Oregon Women Veterans Conference (OWVC), which will be held virtually on May 22 at 9 a.m.

For more than 22 years, the Oregon Department of Veteran Affairs (ODVA) has organized this conference to celebrate the estimated 25,000 veteran women living in the state.

Last year’s conference was canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic, making this the first virtual OWVC event using Whova - an event engagement platform that will enable ODVA to replicate aspects of the previous in-person gatherings.

All women with prior military service are invited to register for the event. Although attendance is free, registration is required and can be done at wvc.oregondva.com.

The program will include several guest speakers, seminars, breakout sessions, opportunities to network with other veterans, and assistance will be available to help attendees access earned benefits.

Celebrating our Employees

Congratulations to our April Employees of the Month:

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

May Special

Naomi Sherbahn

Patricia Fleming

Annette Knutzen

Large Taco, Beef or Chicken, $13

Human Resources Mgr. Support Team

Executive Assistant Commercial Team

Help Desk Agent Government Team

541-276-7272 613 Sw Emigrant

Join our team! We have dozens of jobs open each month, including: Desktop Technician in variety of locations, Computer User Support Specialist, Airfield Manager in Djibouti, Proposal Specialist, Operations Analyst, Business Development Director, and Proposal Manager.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Open Daily 10 a.m.- 9 p.m.

We gladly accept EBT. May 2021

+1 541 278 8200 | www.cayuseholdings.com

Confederated Umatilla Journal

10A

TRIBAL NEWS Land Ownership Consolidation Program to Return to CTUIR MISSION – The Land Buy Back Program will soon return to the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation (CTUIR), offering eligible landowners a third opportunity to participate in the land ownership consolidation program. The program will be based upon the availability of funds remaining and will tentatively mail offers to landowners during the summer of 2021.

Because of the success of the program in 2015, and in 2018, more than 16,836 acres of land were purchased. However, much work remains to be done to consolidate CTUIR ownership and control of the Umatilla Indian Reservation, which is ranked as the 28th most fractionated Indian reservation in the country.

The Land Buy Back Program provides landowners the opportunity to sell ownership at Fair Market Value.

Once complete, the ownership then goes back to CTUIR and helps to clarify tribal jurisdiction and management associated

with highly fractionated land interests.

The CTUIR Tribal Land Program staff remain committed to land buy back efforts and are prepared for this third, and perhaps final, round of the program. The Cobell Settlement, which the program is based on, required that all Land Buy Back Program funds had to be spent in ten years, which concludes in November 2022.

Participation in the Umatilla LBBP land consolidation is voluntary. At this time, limited information is available regarding who may receive offers. Allotment landowners interested in the program and those who would like to inquire about their ownership status are strongly encouraged to make sure their contact information is up to date by calling the Trust Beneficiary Call Center at 1-888-678-6836 or by emailing to tbccmail@btfa.gov. For additional information from the CTUIR, contact Kelly L. George, Land Acquisition coordinator, 541-429-7483, kellygeorge@ctuir.org or Koko Hufford, Land Manager, 541-4297476, kokohufford@ctuir.org.

COMING NEXT MONTH! The June edition of the CUJ will feature our annual graduates edition. To be featured in our graduates section, please send a photo of your graduate, along with information on which school was attended, to CUJ@CTUIR.org

UMATILLA

LAND BUY BACK PROGRAM The Land Buy Back Program will return to the CTUIR, offering eligible landowners a third, and perhaps final, opportunity to participate in the land ownership consolidation program. As an owner of fractional land interests purchasable under the Land Buy-Back Program for Tribal Nations - You may receive a purchase offer package in the mail.

With the upcoming implementation schedule now is the time to learn more about your land, verify and update your contact information, and register as a willing seller.

Participation in the Umatilla LBBP land consolidation is voluntary and limited offers are available through Summer 2021.

11A

For More Information Contact: CTUIR Land Program

Kelly L. George

Land Acquisition Coordinator KellyGeorge@ctuir.org 541.215.0688

Koko Hufford

doi.gov/buybackprogram

Land Manager KokoHufford@ctuir.org 541.429.7476

Umatilla Agency 541.278.3786

To Update Your Information Call: Trust Beneficiary Call Center 1.888.678.6836

Confederated Umatilla Journal

May 2021

CUJ PHOTOGRAPHY

EARTH DAY 2021 Photos by Kaeleen McGuire / For the CUJ

ABOVE: RaeAnn Oatman, along with her husband Joe, (not pictured) filled more than seven bags with trash on Shortmile Road on the Umatilla Indian Reservation. Roughly 680 pounds of garbage were picked up on April 22, 2021. BELOW: Delphine Wood, volunteer, is spotted at the water bin during the Earth Day clean up.

Leona Enright hands out t-shirts to Nixyaawii High School students Layla Sohappy, left, Madison Munoz and Sistine Moses (back). Ten students, along with Principal Ryan Heinrich, picked up trash at Wetlands Park in Mission.

Pendleton Farmers Market

RAFFLE es

First market: May 7th from 4-7 p.m.

Main Street

$1.00 each ! 6 for $5.00 !

SNAP match continued! When you use your EBT card, we match up to $20!

Thank you for helping our community beat the pandemic by wearing a mask while shopping at the market’ May 2021

PENDLETON FARMERS MARKET

z i Pr

A new gift basket every month!

T ickets

PROCEEDS SUPPORT THE PFM SNAP MATCH PROGRAM

Buy tickets each week!

A winner will be picked between 5 & 6pm on the last Friday of each month.

Purchase tickets at the Farmers Market Booth. Write your name and phone number on the back of the ticket and drop in the jar. You DO NOT need to be present to win!

Drawings will occur on: May 28th, June 25th, July 30th, August 27th, September 24th, and October 15th (last market of the season)

Confederated Umatilla Journal

12A

AFFORDABLE HOUSING Viridian Management, Inc. is a full-service property management company that specializes in affordable housing. To learn more about the selection criteria for these properties, or apply online, visit www.viridianmgt.com.

Property Name Applewood Village

Property Type FAMILY

Bdrms 1-3

Address 549 NW 12th Pl, Hermiston OR

Phone Number 541-481-2855

Clover Glen

ELD62+/DISABLED

1-2

2212 Cove Ave, La Grande OR

541-963-0906

Cove Ave Apartments

FAMILY

1-3

1906 Cove Ave, La Grande OR

541-963-0906

Elkhorn Village

ELD62+/DISABLED

Studio,1,2

3085 Resort, Baker City OR

541-523-6578

Glenhaven Park Heppner

FAMILY

2-3

200 Pioneer Dr, Heppner OR

541-676-9232

Highland View

FAMILY

1-3

801 N 15th, Elgin OR

541-398-1737

Hillcrest Apartments

ELD62+/DISABLED

1-2

154 Sunset, Ontario OR

541-889-0860

Indian Hills Apartments

FAMILY

1-3

1335 SW 2nd St, Pendleton OR

541-276-2195

Irrigon Farm Labor

FARM LABOR

2-4

110 Main St, Irrigon OR

541-481-2855

Kingstone Square

ELD62+/DISABLED

1

1007 Ehgood Ave., Nyssa OR

541-889-7412

La Grande Plaza I

FAMILY

2-3

703-5 12th St, La Grande OR

541-805-5036

La Grande Plaza II

FAMILY

2-3

713 12th St, La Grande OR

541-805-5036

La Grande Retirement Apartments

ELD62+/DISABLED

Studio, 1

1612 7th St, La Grande OR

541-805-5036

Leisure Way Apartments

FAMILY

1-2

203 N Storie, Wallowa OR

541-426-6474

Leisure Way Too

ELD62+/DISABLED

1-2

207 N Storie, Wallowa OR

541-426-6474

Malheur Village Apartments

FAMILY

1-2

855 A St West, Vale OR

541-473-3803

Morrow Estates

FAMILY

1-4

212 Anderson Cr NE, Boardman OR

541-567-7595

Mountain Crest Apartments

FAMILY

1-2

607 SW Second St., Enterprise OR

541-426-6474

Ontario Villa Apartments

FAMILY

2-3

630 SW 24th St, Ontario OR

541-889-7412

Orchard Homes

FARM LABOR

1-3

311 N Elizabeth, Milton-Freewater OR

541-938-6661

Park Street

ELD62+/DISABLED

1-2

603 Silver St, Enterprise OR

541-426-6474

Pinehurst Apartments

FAMILY

1-2

1502 21st St, La Grande OR

541-963-9292

Sagebrush Apartments - Boardman

FAMILY

2-3

331 NW Boardman Ave, Boardman OR

541-481-2118

Sagebrush Apartments - Buttercreek

FAMILY

1-2

405 SW 11th, Hermiston OR

541-567-7595

Sagebrush Apartments - Fairview

FAMILY

1-3

555 NW 9th St, Ontario OR

541-889-7412

Security Apartments

FAMILY

Studio,1

130 SW Court St, Pendleton OR

541-276-0416

St Patrick’s Apartments and Sr Ctr

ELD62+/DISABLED

1

190 N Main, Heppner OR

541-676-5380

Sunset Apartments

FAMILY

2

82 Sunset Dr, Ontario OR

541-889-0860

Sunset Senior Apartments

ELD62+/DISABLED

1-2

425 E Currant St, Athena OR

541-263-0835

Sunset Senior II

ELD62+/DISABLED

1

154 S 5th St, Athena OR

541-263-0835

Thunderbird Apartments

FAMILY

1-3

245 SW 5th, Pendleton OR

541-276-0416

Terwilliger Plaza

DISABLED

1

141 W Broadway Ave, Milton-Freewater OR

541-263-0835

The Greens at Montclair

ELD62+/DISABLED

1

307 20th St, La Grande OR

541-963-3785

Treasure Valley Estates

FAMILY

3

1295 SE 10th Ave, Ontario OR

541-473-3803

UCSL-Emily Drive

ELD62+/DISABLED

1-2

10700 Emily Dr, Island City OR

541-963-9292

UCSL-Mallard Heights

ELD62+/DISABLED

1-2

870 N 15th #25, Elgin OR

541-398-1737

UCSL-Ramo Flat

ELD62+/DISABLED

1-2

1091 S Main St, Union OR

541-963-0906

Washington Park Apartments

FAMILY

1-2

923 Cowl St, Milton-Freewater OR

541 938-7447

Persons with disabilities who require alternative means of communication for program information (e.g., Braille, large print, audiotape, American Sign Language, etc.) should contact the responsible Agency or USDA's TARGET Center at (202) 7202600 (voice and TTY) or contact USDA through the Federal Relay Service at (800) 877-8339. Additionally, program information may be made available in languages other than English.

This institution is an equal opportunity provider.

13A

Confederated Umatilla Journal

May 2021

TRIBAL NEWS Oregon House approves ORICWA

By Miranda Vega Rector of the CUJ

SALEM - The Oregon House of Representatives unanimously approved legislation to make further refinements to the Oregon Indian Child Welfare Act (ORICWA), a top priority of the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation (CTUIR).

HB 3182, coming in at 168 pages, includes amendments to the ORICWA, which became law in 2020 when the CTUIR pushed for a state specific statute and partnered with a large workgroup to develop recommendations for the bill. They did this through HB 4214, which modified Oregon’s dependency code to conform to federal ICWA laws.

Board of Trustees member Corinne Sams testified before the House Judiciary Committee in support of the bill on March 30. She explained the significance of the ORICWA to ensure compliance with the federal law and said, “we believe it will prove to be effective in reducing the disproportionate treatment of Native American children in the state’s child welfare system. We have already seen great strides taken by Child Welfare in improving the handling of ORICWA cases, from improving the state’s inquiry and notification process to a better understanding of what it means to provide active efforts and coordinate with tribal nations on cases.”

This session, the new bill will make a number of technical fixes including language regarding private adoptions and tribal customary adoptions. According to Brent Leonhard, Attorney from the CTU-

May 2021

IR Office of Legal Counsel, a primary goal is to ensure that private adoption agencies are in compliance with the ICWA. “In 2016, federal ICWA regulations were put in place, which was huge,” said Leonhard. “Some states adopted their own laws to integrate the ICWA. Oregon didn’t. And I think that’s one of the reasons why they violated ICWA, routinely. And until they integrated it into their own statutes, I don’t think any of them knew what was required.”

The bill addresses a number of issues regarding the tribe’s jurisdiction in ICWA cases and will promote tribal decision making. It will also incorporate ORICWA into Oregon’s Adoption Statutes and will require private adoption agencies to send their petitions and forms over to the Department of Human Services (DHS) for review. In addition, DHS will now have the ability to review a petition for adoption and to file an ICWA compliance report to the court as to whether or not the submitted paperwork meets Oregon’s ICWA requirements. The court will also be required to review the DHS report and private adoption petitions to determine if there’s reason to know if a child is an Indian child; if there is, they would need to determine if the proposed adoption will comply with Oregon ICWA’s placement preferences.

Another piece of the amendment will address consent in a private adoption.

This will ensure that the courts will inform the parents of their rights under ICWA and confirm they understand that they are voluntarily and knowingly waiving their parental rights. If a parent is not consenting to an adoption, the court

will confirm that all of their rights under ICWA and ORICWA regarding the involuntary termination are being followed Leonhard explained, “I think the most important part of the adoption provisions is requiring the court to go over with a parent, who is voluntarily terminating their parental rights … and ensure they know what their rights are and that they are voluntarily, knowingly giving them up. I think private adoption companies strong arm mothers who are in a really vulnerable state, pressuring them, then they sign some document and their child is adopted out. If they sat down with somebody and went through it, they might decide not to do that.”

In regards to tribal customary adoptions, the bill amendments will allow a court in a child welfare case where adoption is the appropriate outcome under ORICWA to pause the case and allow a tribe to conduct the adoption under its own laws and customs. It will also allow for a child to be adopted by someone the tribe supports, often a relative or member of a tribe, while allowing a biological parent to have appropriate continued involvement in the child’s life The workgroup that came together around the original ORICWA bill and developed HB 3182 was far reaching, including Rep. Tawna Sanchez, the Oregon Department of Justice, the Department of Human Services, the Oregon Judicial Department, invited legislators from both sides of the aisle, all the attorneys from our federally recognized tribes, Legislative Counsel, and national ICWA experts.

Confederated Umatilla Journal

CTUIR hazard planning seeks public comment The Umatilla Indian Reservation experienced several natural and human-caused disasters in recent years – flooding, smoke from wildfires, hazardous materials spills and train derailments, and of course the COVID-19 pandemic. Every five years, CTUIR updates its Hazard Mitigation Plan to identify the greatest threats and hazards facing our community, and how we can best mitigate the impacts.

Hazard Mitigation is any effort to reduce or eliminate the long-term risk to human life and property. Through mitigation planning, we recognize that we can’t stop floods or other events from happening, but we can implement long-term solutions to reduce their devastating impact on residents, families, homes, infrastructure, and our natural resources.

The goal of the Hazard Mitigation Plan is to save lives, property, and natural resources by reducing the vulnerability of the UIR to disaster events. During this project, CTUIR will identify risks, assess capabilities, and formulate a strategy to reduce our community’s disaster vulnerability.

Residents, CTUIR members, and other community stakeholders are invited to engage in the hazard mitigation planning process. Community members will inform what threats and hazards are the top priorities, shape the mitigation goals that guide the focus of the entire plan, and identify community assets and vulnerable groups to protect.

A virtual public meeting will occur Wednesday, May 19 from 2 to 4 p.m. For more infromation or to register for the virtual public meeting, please visit: https://ctuir. org/departments/public-safety/

14A

CUJ PHOTOGRAPHY At left is the Public Health Department of Yellowhawk Tribal Health Center. Top row, left to right: Shoshoni Walker, Talia Tewawina, Nina Watchman, Chelsey Minthorn, Ben Bearchum, Theo Gone, Julie Stratton, Judith Burke, Sonia Lloyd and Heather Billy.

Bottom row, left to right: Summer Bryan, Nikki Whiskeyjack, Dusty Dressler, Mystie Haynie and Aimee Lazinka.

Career Day at Yellowhawk Photos by Megan Van Pelt of the CUJ

Eastern Oregon University (EOU) representative Cristian Anguiano helps Nixyaawii Community School student, April 20.

The First Annual Yellowhawk Tribal Health Center (YTHC) Career Fair took place on Apr. 20. With this opportunity, Yellowhawk was able to spotlight individual departments for high school students. Colleges and universities sent admissions representatives, primarily in the medical fields to attend. This included the University of Idaho (UI), Blue Mountain Community College (BMCC), Washington State University (WSU), Eastern Oregon University (EOU), Portland State University (PSU), Lewis-Clark State (LC State) and Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU). For a majority of these students, this was their first in-person career fair.

Nixyaawii Community School freshman Nicolas Alexander, left, listens intently during a presentation.

  

Taylor Craig, medical receptionist, ‘making the connection’ between culture and the medical field.

Home Refinance 2.99% apr/oac* 15 year max term!

Have peace of mind knowing your mortgage loan will always stay local and not be sold to another financial institution.                   

15A

Confederated Umatilla Journal

May 2021

TRIBAL NEWS

Tribes step in to fill financial gap in Oregon

By Wil Phinney, Underscore News

When Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation leaders realized many members didn’t have bank accounts or lines of credit, they put in place a new plan to improve financial literacy and help members obtain loans.

To do that, they launched Nixyaawii Community Financial Services, a one-stop source for a full range of financial services for the reservation’s nearly 3,000 residents.

Nixyaawii Community Financial Services, which formally opened a year ago, is a community development financial institution, a nonprofit that delivers affordable lending.

Umatilla government leaders “saw the need to provide the tools so tribal members could make better financial choices for themselves and their families,” said Dave Tovey, the institution’s chief operating officer. “Even though there were other programs out there, CDFIs served a double purpose — providing loan products and financial education.”

Nixyaawii Community Financial Services now provides loans, home ownership assistance, business development services, and youth and adult financial education to members of the Umatilla Tribes and reservation residents, including the more than 1,200 reservation residents who don’t identify as Native American.

The tribal government, including the Wildhorse Resort & Casino, a market and a museum, is one of the region’s biggest employers. Many members who started with entry-level positions at tribal enterprises have achieved financial success, but lack access to traditional financial institutions.

“There’s a lot of pent-up demand from Tribal members who are making more money and building careers,” Tovey said. “They want to live and work on the reservation, and maybe establish a small business.” -- Amber Shulz-Oliver, a executive director at the Affiliated Tribes of Northwest Indians – Economic Development Corporation Nixyaawii Community Financial Services is the newest community development financial institution in the Northwest Native Lending Network, which includes 14 other such facilities on reservations in Oregon, Washington state, Idaho, Montana, and northern California.

CDFI funding gives individuals “an opportunity that allows people to dream,” said Amber Shulz-Oliver, a Yakama-Wasco descendant who is the executive director at the Affiliated Tribes of Northwest Indians – Economic Development Corporation. “Maybe they have a good idea, but don’t know how to get the money, how to do a business plan. Having a CDFI in the community allows people to start thinking about a business, to learn how, so they can build out that dream.”

In addition to financial assistance, the institution offers coaching, training, and asset-building services for new and existing small businesses and is soon to launch a new loan product for small business homefood production, including gardening and raising livestock.

May 2021

Dave Tovey (left), Nixyaawii Community Financial Services chief operating officer, chief financial officer Becky Cain, and business development counselor Raven Manta in the institution’s new offices near the Wildhorse Resort & Casino. The community development financial institution serves the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation.

Wil Phinney/Underscore

NCFS’s staff is moving in late March or early April into a building that formerly housed a Dairy Queen restaurant across the highway from Wildhorse Resort & Casino. The building will provide classrooms, cameras, and monitors for classes held remotely during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Tovey, who also serves as president of the Affiliated Tribes of Northwest Indians – Economic Development Corporation, said the new financial services operation will consolidate several of the tribal government’s existing programs, including home ownership and business development, and the CTUIR Loan Program, which brings a $5 million portfolio with some 1,400 loans already on the books.

For now, small business loans will be limited to $15,000; Tovey anticipates most will be much smaller, in the range of $1,000.

One major area of emphasis is providing financial education for young people.

Tribal members receive about $20,000 in gaming dividends when they become adults, so-called “18 money.” Last year, Nixyaawii Community Financial Services hosted a financial education fair for high school students in the region.

“If you really want to make a change, especially a generational change, you have to start with young people,” Tovey said.

“A healthy tribal economy is based on governmental and private sector economic activity, as well as property and home ownership,” he added. “We’ve enjoyed wonderful growth of government and tribal businesses, but we still only have a handful of privately owned-and-operated small businesses. Without that private sector, our economy remains one of big inputs and big leakages.”

C hildren's Mental Health A wareness Day is F riday May 7th, 2021

BE KIND TO YOUR MIND do what you LOVE - have FUN - CONNECT with others be ACTIVE - do SMALL things - SING CELEBRATE what makes you SPECIAL - EAT healthy foods - take a BREAK - give your TIME SMILE - do BIG things - SLEEP LEND a helping hand - be UNIQUE be SILLY

Confederated Umatilla Journal

This was developed, in part, with support from SAMSHA grant numbers SM80162. The views, opinions and content of this publication are those of the authors and contributors and do not necessarily reflect the views, opinions, or policies of CMHS, SAMSHA, or HHS and should not be construed as such.

16A

17A

Confederated Umatilla Journal

May 2021

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Pictured is the exhibit “Sacred Reflections: The Art of Umatilla Artist Ellen Taylor” located in the Museum at Warm Springs. The center piece is called Prayer Warrior and is one of several pieces on display and for sale at the museum.

Courtesy Ellen Taylor

Umatilla artist featured in Warm Springs Ellen Taylor’s exhibit is on display through May 29

Museum at Warm Springs and Tamástslikt Cultural Institute.

“Both one woman shows at the museums are very significant and difficult to do,” said Taylor. “This will be the last one for a while.”

With the COVID-19 closures, there has not been a lot of opportunity for Taylor to display her work but as the year goes on, and restrictions are lifted, she is hoping to have exhibits in the area.

The Museum at Warm Springs is open Tuesday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. For admission and other information, visit www.museumatwarmsprings.org or call 541-553-3331.

To follow Taylor’s upcoming shows, follow www. facebook.com/Taylorartmanagement.

By Miranda Vega Rector of the CUJ

WARM SPRINGS – Transforming a bare room with colorful horse sculptures, canvases, and traditional Native items is art by CTUIR member Ellen Taylor that is currently on display at The Museum at Warm Springs now through May 29.

The exhibit titled “Sacred Reflections: The Art of Umatilla Artist Ellen Taylor” consists of 42 bright colored hand painted pieces that are privately owned, as well as pieces that are for sale.

“Ellen’s innovation is phenomenal and the way her ideas hit the canvas is like no other,” said the Museum’s Executive Director Elizabeth A. Woody.

Ellen Taylor “Visitors can expect to experience the incredible outpouring of Ellen’s creativity and be inspired by her immense talent.”

Taylor is a contemporary indigenous artist who is a member of the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation and is also of half Ojibwe descent. One of her favorite pieces is called “Medicine Man” and can be found printed on t-shirts at the museum’s gift shop.

“I really enjoyed that piece,” said Taylor about the Medicine Man display. “It comes from a black and white photo. It’s a piece you can look at forever and never get tired of looking at him. I wanted to add color and my style to bring him to life.”

Taylor has been painting since she was in grade school, but distinctly remembers the moment that influenced her career path. She was living in Albuquerque, N.M. and while playing with a deck of cards she decided to pull out all the face cards. One by one she began drawing on them, changing them into Native American people with tribal designs and clothing.

May 2021

A piece by Ellen Taylor titled ‘MMIW’ was named for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women.

Courtesy Ellen Taylor

One of artist Ellen Taylor’s favorite pieces, Medicine Man, can be found printed on t- shirts sold by the Museum at Warm Springs.

Courtesy Ellen Taylor

“That’s how I got started,” said Taylor.

Later she found out that her great-great-grandfather, Poker Jim, was a card player and she believes that moment with the face cards was a spiritual connection between the two of them.

Throughout her career, Taylor has had her artwork on exhibit in several places including Pendleton Indian Market and the Quintana Gallery in Portland, but so far her most prized accomplishments have been her one woman shows held at The

Confederated Umatilla Journal

18A

Top Chef Continued from page 1A

Wenix Red Elk and Linda Sampson presented the materials used for gathering First Foods on Bravo TV’s ‘Top Chef.’

Courtesy Photo/Bravo TV

ABOVE: Terrie Brigham Price, BOT Chair Kat Brigham and BOT member Armand Minthorn were gathered at a table during the show. BOTTOM LEFT: BOT Vice Chairman Jeremy Wolf tastes food during the show. BOTTOM RIGHT: Linda Jones and Roberta Kirk were also in attendance.

19A

Confederated Umatilla Journal

After the presentation, the contestants went under the Bridge of the Gods to scaffolds owned by sisters Kim Brigham Campbell, owner of Brigham Fish Market located in Cascade Locks, and Terrie Brigham Price, store manager. Contestants watched as fishermen utilized docks on the Columbia River using their hoop nets. The filming was done Sept. 25-26, which was at the tail end of the salmon run, explained Brigham Price.

“We were fishing but not catching,” Brigham Price joked.

She went on to say that their time with the contestants was mostly educational, teaching them how the fish were caught and the tribal history of the villages that once existed in the area.

The following day, the rain dried up and the sun was out. The contestants were given an array of first foods to choose from for their competition such as chokecherries, elderberries, wapato roots (duck potato), and xous (biscuit root), as well as deer meat and sturgeon.

The area on the river where the competition took place was a challenging spot, according to Red Elk who has experience cooking and preparing food in that area. She distinctly remembers one of the competitors picking up the sturgeon and saying, “How the heck do I cut this?”

“A lot of it was food they weren’t used to using, and anyone who cooks on that river, and I cook on that river all the time, knows that it’s hard. The wind is always blowing.”

Once the food was ready, Tribal members and leaders were able to taste the different plates. Tribal participants who were on site included Red Elk, Sampson, Linda Jones, CTUIR Board of Trustees (BOT) members Armand Minthorn and Sandy Sampson, Brigham Price, BOT Vice-Chair Jeremy Wolf, Roberta Kirk of the Warm Springs tribe, and CTUIR Chair Kat Brigham.

“This one team, hit it on money,” said Sampson. “They listened to us on food order and presented the foods on the plate in that order.”

For the CTUIR, presentation of the First Foods is done in an order that follows the tribal creation story and the seasonal round.

It is based on the tribal creation story and the order that the foods offered themselves for sustenance to the Indian people.

Sampson continued, “They explained what they learned and they incorporated everything we brought into that dish. To me, that was the winner. If you’re going to cook to a first foods presentation, that’s the way to do it.”

Viewers will see that cat fish was also an option provided to the chefs, however Sampson wanted to make clear that “catfish is not a first food.”

Other Tribal members who helped gather and harvest some of the roots and berries were Teara Farrow Ferman, Carrie Sampson-Samuels, Talia Tewawina, and Shoshoni Walker, who are part of the CTUIR and YTHC First Foods and Foods System Working Group. Additonal Tribal spectators included Sam Spino, Trinette Minthorn, and Jake Eastman.

“It was a good experience because now I’m thinking of our foods in a different way,” said Red Elk. “Like using Indian celery and making spices or butter out of it.”

May 2021

541-276-5121 2801 ST. ANTHONY WAY • PENDLETON

Use BE FAST to remember warning signs of stroke: BALANCE: Sudden loss of balance EYES: Sudden loss of vision in one or

both eyes.

FACE: Ask the person to smile. Does one side of the face droop?

ARMS: Ask the person to raise both arms.

Does one arm drift downward? iualwb ae zzlb

SPEECH: Ask the person to repeat a simple phrase. Is their speech slurred or strange?

TIME: If you observe any of these signs,

CALL 9-1-1 IMMEDIATELY

For more information, visit stroke.org May 2021

Confederated Umatilla Journal

20A

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

Section

B

May 2021

Saint Schimmel steps into the spotlight Nixyaawii Community School sophomore runner becomes first to qualify for State Cross-Country race

By Cary Rosenbaum of the CUJ LEBANON - Nixyaawii Community School sophomore Saint Schimmel became the first in school history to qualify for the Oregon State Cross-Country Championships.

His time of 19:57:83 placed him 69th out of 111 runners at Cheadle Lake Park.

“I was proud to represent Nixyaawii school and the community at the state meet,” Schimmel said. “It was a dream come true to make it to state. I wanted to do my best. I enjoyed the season and was happy to have sports in the school. I am excited for next season, already.”

Through the course of the season, Schimmel shaved more than three minutes off his time, which impressed NCS Cross-Country Coach Ken Mayfield.

“Saint wants to compete at the highest level and do the best he can,” he said.

Schimmel was the only boy on the team this year. But the three girls -- Diamond Greene, Sophie Bronson and Keyen Singer -- helped push him throughout the season. Mayfield and Schimmel gave them credit for their assistance.

“My teammates were successful,” Schimmel said. “We all improved each race and achieving season best times in our district race. We all had fun practicing and racing.”

Cross-Country on page 3B

Courtesy NCS

1B

Nixyaawii Community School sophomore Saint Schimmel runs at the Spring 2021 Cross Country 3A/2A/1A State Championships in Lebanon. The CTUIR member finished in 69th place.

Courtesy OSAA

Confederated Umatilla Journal

May 2021

CUJ SPORTS

Tribal members tackle the rugby field

By Miranda Vega Rector of the CUJ

PENDLETON – Local youth rugby team, the East Oregon Spider Monkeys, kicked off the season April 17 in Post Falls, Idaho with 28 players, including five tribal players.

The Spider Monkeys are part of the East Oregon Rugby Club founded in 2015 by Eric Gabriel, who fell in love with the game in the early 90s while living in Germany. Before the club was officially formed, Gabriel had started a men’s program in 2008 and then a high school program in 2009. The youth program was created in 2018 after his son Rogan Gabriel gave him the idea.

“My son Rogan traveled to McMinnville with me to the state high school rugby playoffs,” said Gabriel in an email.

“After our match he asked me when I was going to start a youth program so he could play, and I could coach him. I told him, ‘How about next season?’”

Currently, there are five Tribal athletes playing with the Spider Monkeys, four of which are members of the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation (CTUIR): Cole Sazue, Sheldon Joseph, Malaeloa Malumaleumu, and Matilda Rugby on page 3B

Malaeloa Malumaleuma tackles Nodin Benton during rugby practice at Grecian Heights Park. The 6th graders have played with Eastern Oregon Youth Rugby for three years.

Courtesy Kaeleen McGuire

RESERVE YOUR LANE ONLINE TODAY! Visit wildhorseresort.com FAMILY PACKAGE (Starting May 1)

50 MON-THU $ 55 $

AT

MON-THU Before 6pm After 6pm

REMEMBE R TO PLAY IT S A F E WITH A LITTLE SPACE AN D WEAR YO UR MASK !

Includes: h 90 Minutes Bowling h Shoe Rental h One Large Pizza (up to 3 toppings)

h One Pitcher of Soda Package is good for up to six people.

BOWLING • ARCADE • FOOD COURT • CINEPLEX • AND MORE! 800.654.9453 • PENDLETON, OR • reserves I-84, 216 • wildhorseresort.com Management all rightsEXIT to alter, suspend or withdrawpromotions/offers at any time. Gaga 01.21 WH012120 Owned and operated by CTUIR Management reserves all rights to alter, suspend or withdraw promotions/offers at any time.

May 2021

Gaga04.22 WH042124

Confederated Umatilla Journal

2B

Rugby Continued from page 2B

Allen. Another Native American player is Nodin Benton, who is of the Chickasaw Nation.

“The kids are having a blast,” wrote Gabriel. “Everyone, parent and child, is learning the game together. There is a lot of positive energy with rugby in the USA right now, but even better is that we continue to grow the rugby community in Pendleton and CTUIR.” Within the Spider Monkeys are two divisions, U12 - which is a co-ed team for players 12 years of age and under, and U14 - for kids 14 years old and under.

There are four coaches currently leading the Rugby Club: Chris Perkins, his brother Craig Perkins, Hunter Erwin and Gabriel. The Perkins brothers have coached with Gabriel for the past 10 years and each have vast knowledge and experience in rugby. Erwin is a former player of the high school boys program, the East Oregon Sasquatch, and became an All State rugby player his junior and senior year at Oregon Institute and Technology.

The following is the schedule for the remainder of the games: May 8, Ellensburg, Wash., Ellensburg Rotary Park, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

May 15, Pendleton, Ore., Grecian Heights Park South, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

May 22, Wenatchee, Wash., Confluence State Park, 11 a.m. to 2p.m.

Cole Sazue, left, and Sheldon Joseph pose after a rugby game. The teammates have played with Eastern Oregon Youth Rugby for three years.

Courtesy Kaeleen McGuire

Cross-Country Continued from page 1B

“Those girls helped push Saint,” Mayfield said. “He got better each race.”

Before the race, Mayfield told Schimmel, “You have a lot of people rooting for you. From all your family members to your community back home, so just run for your people.”

Mayfield expects Schimmel to be back at the state meet next season.

“Now he knows where he can improve and what he’s up against,” Mayfield said.

“I think this was a good learning piece.

For the first time in history, that’s a big deal.”

Singer, a junior, was an alternate for the state meet.

“She did a really good job,” Mayfield said.

Greene and Bronson, both sophomores, were great to have on the team, Mayfield said.

“Diamond, she battled some injuries early in the season but she made it back for districts,” he said. “Sophie, she dedicated herself to running and did great from last year to this year.”

The season was shorter than usual due to COVID-19.

“It was for the most part fairly normal,” Mayfield said, “but running with your mask on and trying to train with the mask on is pretty tough. It’s difficult for anyone to do any physical activity with a mask on.

“It was a little different because we’re a small group. Usually there’s 10 or more.

I think due to COVID some kids were unsure if they wanted to come out and compete.”

3B

Confederated Umatilla Journal

May 2021

CUJ SPORTS OSAA returns Season 3 culminating weeks to the schools

By The CUJ

Oregon School Activity Association (OSAA) returned the culminating weeks for upcoming Season 3 Spring Sports back to the schools.

In the past, OSAA would reserve the final weeks of each season for championship games, but due to COVID-19 restrictions, there have not been any official sanctioned OSAA championship events this year..

“After lengthy conversation, discussion of feedback from schools, and consideration of several different options, the OSAA Executive Board made the decision to return the sixth and final week of Season 3 to the schools to coordinate and execute local and regional culmination week events at their discretion,” said a memo from OSAA Executive Director Peter Weber.

The first contests for baseball, softball, track and field, tennis and golf began April 12 and the culmination week is set for May 17 through May 23.

SPRING SWINGS

Participation limitations for Season 3 sports will allow for additional contests in each activity through the culminating weeks. Baseball and softball will receive four additional games, tennis will receive three additional multi-match playing dates, track and field will receive two additional meets and golf will receive four additional nine-hole rounds.

Cheerleading, dance and drill, solo music, band and orchestra, choir, and speech will continue to be held virtually.

“The board believes that providing local discretion for culminating week events allows schools to make the best decisions for their school and community,” said Weber in the memo.

Potential culminating week events for Season 4 Winter Sports were discussed but no decisions were made. However, contests for basketball, wrestling and swimming are scheduled to start May 17 with the culminating week set for June 21 through June 26.

LEFT: Taylor Quaempts came in as a relief pitcher against Riverside on April 20.

ABOVE: Janie Helfrecht gets a hit during Athena’s game versus Riverside.

CUJ Photo/Dallas Dick

FINANCIAL READINESS IS THE FIRST STEP TOWARDS HOMEOWNERSHIP

Are you ready to build a home at Nixyáawii?

Are you financially secure?

You need to have a stable income source that can be verified by your lender and demonstrate you manage expenses responsibly.

Are you comfortable with the responsibility of home maintenance?

Homes require maintainence. A home owner is responsible for replacing fixtures and making any repairs to the house.

Is your credit in good shape?

Can you save money for a down payment and closing costs?

Lenders use your credit report to see if you are a responsible borrower.

Check your credit score early in the process so you can correct any issues.

Are you ready to settle down in one place?

Homeownership is a long-term commitment. If you’re not ready to settle down for at least five years, renting may be a better option.

Prepare for the additional expenses you will incur including the downpayment and any fees charged by the lender.

Can you afford to pay a mortgage?

Be ready to prioritize your mortgage payment before other expenses.

A bank will foreclose on your home if you stop paying your mortgage– a devastating hit to your credit report.

Nixyáawii is a new twelve-acre neighborhood located south of the Nixyáawii Education Center and Yellowhawk Tribal Health Center. The neighborhood will allow CTUIR Tribal Members to build homes and live on the Umatilla Indian Reservation. Shovel-ready lots will feature utility access, paved roads and sidewalks, alleyways and plans for a community park. More information at www.Nixyaawii.com.

May 2021

Confederated Umatilla Journal

4B

MORE

CUJ PHOTOGRAPHY

BIRDIES MORE OFTEN

LADIES

UNE 16 AUGUST 4 8 – SEPTEMBER 2

WED N ES DAY N I G HT G O LF C LI N I C S

SESSION 1 SESSION 2 SESSION 3

190

$

MAY 19 – JUNE 16 JUNE 30 – AUGUST 4 AUGUST 18 – SEPTEMBER 22 Session

5-week session Cart Course challenges Prizes Wine tasting For more information and registration form, visit wildhorseresort.com

®

800.654.9453 | Pendleton, OR wildhorseresort.com

Pilot Rock’s Celia Farrow pitches against Umatilla April 20, where the team won with two shutouts, 15-0 and 13-0.

CUJ Photo/Dallas Dick

Simon Shippentowner gets a hit and makes it to first base safely in an April 19 baseball game at the Pendleton Little League field.

CUJ Photo/Dallas Dick

5B

LEW-7UP-5-2021

OFFER EXPIRES 5-31-2021

LEW-7UP-5-2021

OFFER EXPIRES-5-31-2021

Gaga4.21 WH042117AC

Confederated Umatilla Journal

May 2021

OUTDOORS Oregon tribes reintroduce beavers to the Beaver State, but hurdles remain

By Lucy Sherriff of Underscore

C’waam and Koptu were once a staple meal for the Klamath Tribes. They’re a rarity now — members are allowed to catch only two of the suckerfish a year. The ray-finned C’waam, with its long snout and the smaller white-bellied Koptu, with a large head and lower notched lip, are only found in the Upper Klamath basin.

Once fished in their thousands as one of the tribes’ important First Foods, the fish populations were decimated when the health of their spawning grounds declined from a spate of dam building in the Upper Klamath Lake during the 1900s.

The lake has been plagued by toxic algae, which starve the fish of oxygen, and the tribes have seen suckerfish populations plummet from the tens of millions down to less than 45,000. They are now endangered.

The C’waam, also known as Lost River sucker can grow up to almost 3 feet long, and weigh 10 pounds.

The Koptu, also called the shortnose sucker, can reach 18 inches and live up to 30 years.

The tribal government has tried various tactics to restore fish populations: raising young fish to older ages before releasing them in the lakes, monitoring water quality, working with landowners to restore riparian habitat, and bringing a lawsuit, which was eventually dropped, against the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to save the C’waam and Koptu. Now the tribes are turning to an unlikely hopeful savior: the beaver.

“Their activity is a driver for the productivity and diversity for the whole ecosystem,” says Alex Gonyaw, senior fisheries biologist for the Klamath Tribes in Southern Oregon and Northern California.

Last fall Gonyaw oversaw the construction of a beaver dam analog, a manmade structure that mimics a natural beaver dam and is used to attract beaver families.

Oregon is The Beaver State. And yet, state law classifies beavers as predators, meaning they can be hunted and trapped on private land across Oregon with few restrictions. Once an endemic species across the U.S. before the semi aquatic rodents were trapped into near-extinction during the 1800s fur trade, beavers are a vital component to the ecosystem, improving water quality and fish habitat. The animals are known to improve salmon habitat, but Gonyaw’s venture is the

A beaver swims underwater at the Oregon Zoo in Portland.

first attempt to use beavers to stabilize the suckerfish populations.

Two bills currently moving through the Oregon state legislature would respectively prohibit the taking of beavers on federally managed public land and exclude beavers from being classified as predatory animals.

“Our aim is to work with nature not against it,” Gonyaw explains. The tribal government, which hopes to establish a stable fish population as a food source, wanted to reshape the land to provide healthy fish habitats. But they didn’t want to use bulldozers to reshape the Williamson River. “We needed to hold the water back, and beavers do that naturally.”

Beavers, a keystone species, have been found to help mitigate the spread of wildfires, thanks to their water-damming habits.

Courtesy Oregon Zoo

Gonyaw hopes the tribes’ efforts at attracting beavers — by using natural posts and woven willows to give the animals a foothold to make dams — will start to hold back water and that the historic vegetation, of local lily pads and bulrushes, will return.

“And we’ll eventually have a shallow lake wetland system again,” Gonyaw says. “If there is continuous standing water here, we hope fish biodiversity would increase and we would have an opportunity for tribal fishing rights to return.”

No beavers have arrived — yet. “It’s a long way from the nearest beaver dam, but if we don’t see activity in the next year, we’ll work with the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife to move nuisance beavers,” he adds.

Relocating beavers on private land is allowed, but it’s an onerous process to gain a permit, which is issued through the state. Individuals must obtain signatures from every landowner within four miles of the proposed site testifying that the landowners have no objection to the beavers being moved in.

On public land, beavers are considered furbearers, so they can be hunted in season, and there are no limits on how many beavers hunters can trap. On private land, “you can kill as many as you want, whenever you want, however you want, and you don’t have to tell anyone about it,” explains Jakob Shockey, executive director of The Beaver Coalition, a nonprofit working to increase public and private landowner support for beavers.

“They’re so important for the environment that we can’t afford to have them trapped out,” Shockey says, particularly when it comes to wildfires, which in 2020 were the most destructive in the state’s history, burning more than 1 million acres. Beaver dams create pockets of lush, saturated landscape that resists fires.

“If we could boost the health of (Oregon’s) creeks, we could have a shot at our cities not burning down again. And the answer is relocating animals — beavers, to be precise.”

The two proposed laws moving through the state legislature — HB 2843, which protect beavers on public Beaver state on page 7B Carl Scheeler, Wildlife Program Manager for the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation, shows saplings planted near Pendleton, part of a beaver restoration project on tribal land.

Kathy Aney/Underscore

May 2021

Confederated Umatilla Journal

6B

Beaver state Until the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation bought this land near Pendleton, the river flowed faster and more directly. Beavers helped create side channels that slowed the water and turned it into the biggest wetland in the Umatilla Basin.

Continued from page 7B

lands, and HB 2844, which would take them off the predator list, would mean stricter policies around how, when, and where they can be killed — could make an “enormous” difference in improving the health of Oregon’s landscape and biodiversity, says Suzanne Fouty, a hydrologist who helped legislators craft the bills.

“It is really serious what we are faced with, and we have very little time left to create conditions that help our wild and human communities be somewhat buffered against the impacts of climate change,” Fouty said.

It is illegal to relocate a beaver without a permit, but one tribal program has been carrying out relocations in partnership with the state’s wildlife department discreetly for years. Tod Lum, wildlife biologist for the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, has been working with the Cow Creek Band of Umpqua Tribe of Indians to move nuisance beavers onto federal land for the past decade.

“We’re considered the Beaver State, for good reason,” he said. “They’re little engineers and they’re good at what they do but there’s conflict. A lot of people don’t want them on their land.”

Lum says most landowners are happy to have the beavers relocated rather than to have the animals undergo a lethal removal alternative, describing the trapping program, which is funded by the tribe, as an “intervention.”

Relocating beavers is no mean feat. The animals prefer low elevation with low gradient land: the water flow is easier to control. However, those areas are usually heavily populated with people. Beavers are often considered a nuisance by landowners, as their dams disrupt water flow and can flood areas, and the animals particularly prefer felling alder, aspen, and apple trees.

Beavers are also highly territorial and won’t always stay where they’re moved. There’s a list of criteria when it comes to relocation, such as ensuring whole family groups are moved, and not just individuals; moving beavers in the right season; and staying within the same watershed. Lum sends contact information of landowners who wish to have beavers removed but not killed to

Kathy Aney/Underscore

the Cow Creek Band of Umpqua Tribe of Indians. The tribal government then works to establish a suitable new location and eventually moves the animals.

Other tribal governments in Oregon work on attracting beaver naturally, rather than utilizing relocation initiatives that require a vast amount of hoop-jumping to gain permission.

Although the Klamath Tribes’ beaver projects are fairly new, the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation , situated in northeastern Oregon, are old hands at attracting beavers to their land.

The CTUIR’s program, Umatilla River Vision, was conceived in 2008 and laid out plans to fulfill a mission to protect, restore, and enhance First Foods — water, salmon, deer, cous, and huckleberry — for the tribe’s members. The river plays a pivotal role, and therefore, inextricably, so do beavers. Carl Scheeler, wildlife program manager for CTUIR, has been working on restoring a healthy river system for more than 30 years, and often shares best practices with other Oregon Nations.

“Early on it was a challenge,” he recalls. “I remember putting together fish habitat restoration projects and spending a lot of money planting riparian species of plants only to find them mowed down by the beavers.”

But now, he explains, it’s a “different story” after his team began creating favorable habitats for the beavers, attracting the beavers to specific areas that were identified by wildlife managers.

“We now have a recovering beaver population. Our

motto is ‘we build it and they will come.’ It’s the ‘Field of Dreams’ for the beaver,” Scheeler adds, referencing the famous 1989 Kevin Costner movie quote. “They are a very very important part of that dynamic river system.”

Scheeler describes beavers as the “Indian Corps of Engineers,” holding the soil back during floods, creating an opportunity for water to stay longer in the system.

“They create habitats which support all other wildlife in the system,” Scheeler says. “When we’re talking about righting the wrong that has been done by past land management, we can reset things back to far enough where the beaver can then take over and recreate the habitat they used to create all over North America. We would not have the landscape that we have if it were not for beaver.”

And, he adds, the land is “without a doubt” in a better, healthier condition than neighboring land where there are no beavers.

Tribal governments are already leading by example when it comes to using beavers to heal the land; however there is still a long way to go until the animals are viewed as a necessary species rather than as pests.

“We need to stop killing beavers where they choose to live,” says Shockey.

“It’s vital (Oregonians) have the ability to make better beaver habitat and give landowners the tools they need to peacefully coexist with the animals. They’ll travel up to 100 kilometers (62 miles) to find new habitat, but it’s hard for them to start from scratch,” he adds.

“There’s a love/hate relationship with beavers in Oregon,” Lum says. “A constant push-pull. Beavers are running out of places to be, because man wants to live there too.”

Weed of the Month Common Crupina Crupina vulgaris

Common Crupina is an aggressive invader that displaces native plants and decreases forage for wildlife and livestock. It is a winter annual that grows up to 1-4 feet tall. It produces pink to purple flowers in May/June and finely divided leaves with short, stiff spines. It grows in a wide variety of habitats rangelands, canyon grasslands and forested areas.

For more information and treatment options for common crupina or other invasive weeds, contact Bob Floyd at 541-429-7258

7B

Confederated Umatilla Journal

May 2021

CUJ WILDLIFE PHOTOGRAPHY

JUST IN TIME FOR FATHER’S DAY

A Western Meadowlark perches on some wheat as it scopes out its spring breeding ground on a Tyler Stewart/For the CUJ beautiful April day.

SHOP AT ARROWHEAD & ENTER TO WIN A WEBER PROPANE GAS GRILL!

ENTER MAY 1-31

Drawing to be held Tuesday, June 1.

Winner announced on Arrowhead 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

800.654.9453 • 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 CTUIR.

Gaga.4.21 WH042114

May 2021

Confederated Umatilla Journal

8B

Two male Ospreys begin to nestle down near the Umatilla River as inclement weather rolls in early April east of Pendleton. Tyler Stewart/For the CUJ

MAY GROCERY SPECIALS Eggo® Blueberry Waffles $3.49 $2.99

Darigold® Sour Cream 17oz $2.89 $1.89

Albers® Corn Meal $2.29 $1.89

Darigold® Butter 16oz $6.79 $5.39

Pringles® Assorted 5.5oz $3.39 $2.69

Reese’s Candy Bars Assorted 2/$2.19 2/$1.99

Kraft® Classic Ranch Dressing 16oz $5.09 $4.19

Folgers® Colombian Coffee 10.3oz $6.19 $5.19

Smucker’s® Blackberry Jam 12oz $4.09 $3.59

Jif® Crunchy/Creamy 16oz $3.69 $2.99

DayQuil® Cold Flu 8oz $12.89 $10.99

Ivory® Hand Soap 4-pack $4.59 $3.99

Pepperidge Farm® Garlic Bread 10oz $3.09 $2.59

Kraft® Macaroni and Cheese 2.05oz $2.09 $1.99

Kool-Aid® .16 oz $ .49 $ .35

White Castle® Chicken Sliders $6.19 $5.39

Tide® Liquid Detergent $7.49 $6.29

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!

NEW STORE HOURS

Monday – Saturday 7am – 8pm | Sunday 9am – 5pm 46493 Mission Rd. Pendleton, OR 97801 • 541-276-9082

9B

Confederated Umatilla Journal

GAGA 4.21 WH042115

May 2021

CULTURE First Foods return to longhouse After a year-long absence, the Root Feast Celebration took place at the Mission Longhouse, Apr. 25. Last year, the Root Feast was cancelled due to COVID-19.

Fast forward to this year, Tribal members enjoyed First Foods again at the Mission Longhouse.

Armand Minthorn, Longhouse leader, spoke on how great it is to see everyone. Roughly 60 Tribal members were in attendance and enjoyed foods such as huckleberries, eel, elk, salmon, and caous.

Jess Nowland, far left, laughs with Thomas Morning Owl, far right, during the Longhouse Feast with several other Tribal members.

CUJ Photo/Megan Van Pelt

Pictured above is a screenshot of the Umatilla Dictionary website available online.

Umatilla Language Dictionary released By the Education Department

MISSION - The Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation (CTUIR) has launched a Umatilla Language Dictionary website at https:// dictionary.ctuir.org. The project was a collaborative effort between Amazon Web Services and the CTUIR Language Program.

“The online Umatilla Dictionary is an exciting project that we are very proud to share. We hope Tribal members will enjoy the easy online access to help them on their learning journey,” said Modesta Minthorn, Director of the CTUIR Education Department.

The objective of the project was to move the dictionary to a website for ease-of-use and raise awareness about the Umatilla Language. The target audience is CTUIR Tribal members who live on the Umatilla Indian Reservation and across the country.

The number of fluent Umatilla speakers has diminished because many of the elders who grew up speaking the language have passed

May 2021

Confederated Umatilla Journal

on. The Language Program was established in 1996 in the Department of Education to work with those remaining fluent speakers to record their voices, revitalize the language in the community and provide language instruction at the kindergarten to adult level, and develop a Umatilla Language Dictionary.

“This is a gift to the youth. No matter where they find themselves, they will have access to the beautiful words of their elders. May this kindle their curiosity! And may their elders’ legacy never fade,” said Dr. Noel Rude, author of the Dictionary and former Tribal Linguist at Tamástslikt Cultural Institute.

The Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation is made up of the Cayuse, Umatilla, and Walla Walla Tribes, formed under the Treaty of 1855 at the Walla Walla Valley. In 1949, the Tribes adopted a constitutional form of government to protect, preserve and enhance the treaty rights guaranteed under federal statute.

10B

Tamkaliks Celebration Canceled WALLOWA – Nez Perce Wallowa Homeland (NPWH) and the Tamkaliks Committee have decided to cancel the 2021 Tamkaliks Celebration that is generally held in July, but will continue the tradition of granting the Taz Conner and Terry Crenshaw Memorial Scholarship.

This is the second year that the celebration has been canceled since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“This was not an easy decision, but Nez Perce Wallowa Homeland and the Tamkaliks Committee agree that this is the best decision for the safety of our elders and our communities,” said NPWH and the Tamkaliks committee in a press release.

The scholarships will award two students -- one from Wallowa County and one Native American - $500 each. Deadlines for the scholarships are set to May 3 for Wallowa County residents and June 28 for Native American students.

Details on the scholarships can be found at www.wallowanezperce.org on the bottom of the page.

The Visitor Center and pow wow grounds at NPWH will remain open to the public during the summer and campers are encouraged to bring their family, horses and drums.

“It is always our wish that song, dance, and prayer resonate from this special place, Tamkaliks or no,” said the press release.

Pictured is the inside of the Visitors Center of the Nez Perce Wallowa Homeland. On display is a variety of artifacts, maps, and artwork that tell the story of the original inhabitants of Wallowa and Nez Perce culture.

Courtesy of www.wallowanezperce.org

TAMÁSTSLIKT CULTURAL INSTITUTE | EAT. SHOP. EXPLORE. | MAY 2021 May Hours

Exhibits reopen on May 7!

We're reopening our permanent exhibits on FREE FIRST FRIDAY, May 7, 10am-5pm. You will see there are some new features to enjoy. While here you will feel safe and comfortable. We are sanitizing surfaces continuously and deep cleaning nightly.

We ask that everyone wear a mask and practice social distancing. Capacity will be limited.

The Museum Store, Kinship Café, and permanent exhibits are open Tuesday-Saturday. Kinship Café is open 11am-2pm for take-out. The Museum Store and permanent exhibits are open 10am-5pm.

Ínwai Circle of Friends

Join our family of friends and supporters!

When you sign up to become a member of our Ínwai Circle of Friends, you play a critical role in sustaining our facility and helping us achieve our purpose to honor, respect, and educate about the people of the Cayuse, Umatilla, and Walla Walla Tribes. Enjoy benefits like free admission, discounts in the store and café, and free regular admissions to our cultural partners: Oregon Historical Society, North American Reciprocal Museum (NARM) Association, and Fort Walla Walla. Just go to www.tamastslikt.org/get-involved/membership/ and select the membership level that suits you best. You may also write Virginia.conner@tamastslikt.org or call 541.429.7706 to sign up or request a brochure.

The Museum Store at Tamástslikt Cultural Institute

May Closet Close-Out!

Up to 50% off all apparel, hats, scarves, gloves, and more. Great savings on winter wear and a jump start on items for warmer weather. Shop early for the best selection!

Visit us at the store, we're open 10am-5pm, Tuesday-Saturday. Or order online at www.tamastslikt.or/shop where shipping is always free! COVID-19 protocols are in place with masks and social distancing required. Offer may not be combined with any other discounts/offers.

Kinship Café

May Specials!

May 7, FREE FIRST FRIDAY: Indian Tacos, Frybread & Huckleberry Jam May 11-15: Ham & Turkey Club Sandwich w/ chips or pasta salad May 18-22: Bison Taco Salad May 25-29: Tri-Tip Raspberry Salad Every Friday, Salmon Corn Chowder!

Take-out only. Call in your order to 541.429.7702 and we'll have it ready for pick up!

FREE FIRST FRIDAY! May 7 10am-5pm It's back! Take advantage of free admission for the whole family on the first Friday of every month. Enjoy a lunch of Indian Tacos ($10) and Frybread with Huckleberry Jam ($6) at Kinship Café. Shop the great discounts at the Museum Store. We're reopening our permanent exhibits this Friday and look forward to welcoming you back!

Exhibits Open Tues-Sat, 10am-5pm beginning May 7

Museum Store Open Tues-Sat, 10am-5pm | Kinship Café Open Tues-Sat, 11am-2pm

Pendleton, OR | www.tamastslikt.org | 541.429.7700

11B

9.8” x Umatilla 9” Confederated Journal

May 2021

TRIBAL NEWS

Northwest tribal leaders, including CTUIR Board of Trustees Chair Kat Brigham (center left), sit around tables at Wildhorse Resort & Casino in mid-April to discuss the advancement of a salmon and energy proposal from Rep. Mike Simpson (R-ID) which could make unprecedented infrastructure investment in the Pacific Northwest to save imperiled salmon runs, protect inland agriculture industries, and transform the region’s energy supply for a renewable future.

Courtesy Photo

Columbia Basin Tribes urge Congress to make historic investment in Northwest infrastructure By the CUJ

MISSION – In mid-April, representatives from 12 different Northwest Tribes spent two days discussing advancing a salmon and energy proposal from Rep. Mike Simpson (R-ID) that could make an unprecedented infrastructure investment in the Pacific Northwest to save imperiled salmon runs, protect inland agriculture industries, and transform the region’s energy supply for a renewable future. Beyond the bold salmon and river restoration actions throughout the Columbia River Basin, the Simpson proposal (available at https://simpson. house.gov/salmon/) could protect salmon, water, agriculture, transportation and energy needs by: • Investing nearly $5 billion in new transportation infrastructure to transport inland products like wheat to market; • Investing over $14 billion in new energy infrastructure; including, o $2 billion for Northwest grid resiliency/optimization; o $1.25 billion for energy storage; o $10 billion in replacement energy for the lower Snake River dams; • Providing Snake/Columbia River communities with over $1.5 billion for economic development; • Placing fish restoration under the direction of tribes and states; • Investing in restoring the lower

May 2021

Snake River by breaching the four lower Snake River dams; • Investing in restoring non-ESA listed fish above blocked areas; • Allocating over $5 billion in other salmon conservation actions throughout the Basin; and • Providing legal certainty on Columbia River dams for 35 years.The tribes coalesced around the following set of “common ground” principles intended to continue and expand their dialogue with agricultural and energy interests: • The true wealth of our region begins with the health of our rivers, fish and the ecosystem they support, which is our culture, history, and future; • Agriculture is an important part of our region’s economy; • Affordable and reliable power is important to regional families and business – tribal and non-tribal; • Providing legal certainty for the vast majority of federal dams in the Columbia/Snake River basins is a necessary element of a lasting solution; • A significant federal infrastructure investment in alternative energy and transportation provides a unique opportunity to restore salmon while keeping power affordable and maintaining agricultural commerce; • A comprehensive legislative solution is preferable to all other avenues and is urgently needed.

• The time for action is now. The Columbia Basin cannot become another Klamath Basin crisis.

QUOTES FROM TRIBAL LEADERS: • Kat Brigham (Chair, Board of Trustees, Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation) said: “Rep. Simpson’s proposal is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to set aside past differences and chart a new course for the survival of the Columbia River Basin – including salmon, farmers and many others.”

• Shelly Fyant (Chairwoman, Tribal Council, Confederated Salish & Kootenai Tribes) said: “The Confederated Salish & Kootenai Tribes (“CSKT”) holds the water of our region as sacred life blood of our people. Water sustains us and the resources that we rely on for survival. As we utilize the water the creator provided for us all we must do it from these perspectives. CSKT is an owner of a portion of the Columbia Basin Hydropower system providing flood control and power to the region and sees clearly that the comprehensive proposal put forth by Rep Simpson is the most viable path for restoration of Columbia Basin Resources.

We say this from not only a provider of energy but also as a Bonneville Power preference customer bringing energy from the Columbia Basin Hydropower system to our people. We encourage the rest of the NW delegation to join with

Confederated Umatilla Journal

Representative Simpson to complete this comprehensive plan and commit the resources to implement it.”

• Rodney Cawston (Chairman, Colville Business Council, Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation) stated: “On behalf of the Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation, I appreciate Congressman Simpson’s comprehensive approach in his Columbia River proposal, and its inclusion of the agricultural and power production interests, and the opportunity for the Tribes to provide their comments. Food and agriculture are needed to feed the world. Hydropower is a cheap and reliable form of renewable energy. Yet, hydropower impacts salmon spawning beds, causes low water levels, and warmer water temperatures, all of which devastate anadromous fish species. It is imperative that we all work together to look for different ways for all operations on the Columbia River and its tributaries that addresses everyone’s needs.”

• Raymond Tsumpti (Tribal Council Chairman of the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs) stated: “The Indian people of the Columbia River Basin are united by being fishing people since time immemorial. Today, we remain united to ensure that salmon remain in the rivers for our children and beyond.”

• Gary Aitken, Jr. (Chairman, Tribal Simpson on page 13B

12B

Simpson Continued from page 12B

Council, Kootenai Tribe of Idaho) stated: “Although there is much to flesh out and coordinate, we look forward to the process of holistic and inclusive restoration of not only the Kootenai River and Ktunaxa Homelands, but the entire Columbia Basin. One strand of the web affects the entire web. Everything is connected.

The tribes have been here and been stewards of this beautiful country since time immemorial. We know us, and we know our areas, and we know what needs to be done to heal it. KTOI looks forward to reviewing any proposed legislation and ensuring it protects and promotes Ktunaxa interests.”

• Delano Saluskin (Chairman, Tribal Council, Yakama Nation) said: “Yakama Nation was on the front lines of the historic Treaty fishing wars that established tribal fishing rights through litigation. We have also been on the front lines of successful federal, state, local, and industry partnerships like the 2008 Fish Accords and the 2012 Yakima Basin Integrated Plan, which support the restoration of tribal fisheries while also meeting the needs of our communities.

Today – in the face of aging energy infrastructure, depressed local economies, climate change, and ever-declining fish runs -- we must do something different to preserve our way of life in the Pacific Northwest. We invite and challenge our partners and our neighbors to take a hard look at how Congressman Simp-

son’s proposal could benefit our energy security, our economies, and our critical natural resources for the benefit of all.”

• Shannon F. Wheeler (Chairman, Nez Perce Tribe). “We view restoring the lower Snake River – a living being to us, and one that is injured - as urgent and overdue. Congressman Simpson, in focusing on the facts and on a solution, speaks the truth - that restoring salmon and the lower Snake River can also reunite and strengthen regional communities and economies. We will support Congressman Simpson’s initiative and we respect the courage and vision he is showing the region. This is an opportunity for multiple regional interests to align with a better future for the Northwest: river restoration and salmon recovery; local and regional economic investment and infrastructure improvement; and longterm legal resolution and certainty.”

• Chairwoman Carol Evans (Spokane Tribe) stated: “the Tribe supports a proposal that addresses the impacts to the Columbia River Region in a holistic way. The details will need to be worked through and many hearts and minds won over, however, acknowledging that the system is not working for the entire Region is a big step forward, and the Tribe supports the goal of ensuring healthy and harvestable salmon populations throughout all areas of the Columbia River. This investment will benefit the entire Region.”

MAY GROCERY SPECIALS Eggo® Blueberry Waffles $3.49 $2.99

Darigold® Sour Cream 17oz $2.89 $1.89

Darigold® Butter 16oz $6.79 $5.39

Pringles® Assorted 5.5oz $3.39 $2.69

Reese’s Candy Bars Assorted 2/$2.19 2/$1.99

EMPLOYEES OF THE MONTH!

Albers® Corn Meal $2.29 $1.89

Kraft® Classic Ranch Dressing 16oz $5.09 $4.19

Folgers® Colombian Coffee 10.3oz $6.19 $5.19

Smucker’s® Blackberry Jam 12oz $4.09 $3.59

Jif® Crunchy/Creamy 16oz $3.69 $2.99

DayQuil® Cold Flu 8oz $12.89 $10.99

Ivory® Hand Soap 4-pack $4.59 $3.99

Pepperidge Farm® Garlic Bread 10oz $3.09 $2.59

Kraft® Macaroni and Cheese 2.05oz $2.09 $1.99

Kool-Aid® .16 oz $ .49 $ .35

White Castle® Chicken Sliders $6.19 $5.39

Tide® Liquid Detergent $7.49 $6.29

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

ONLINE ORDERING AVAILABLE mymissionmarket.com or

Front Line Taleah Wilson, Hotel Conc. Bellman

Support Staff Nolan Nez, Soft Count Clerk

Supervisor Sue Herbert, F&B Plateau Lead

Taleah is extremely hard working, she always puts our guests needs first and goes above and beyond when it comes to helping them.

Nolan has shown himself to be a huge asset to the team. Nolan earned his position as a dual lead quickly by being a quick learner, always willing to help out when needed, and

Sue is the Plateau FOH lead and is well respected by her peers.

She leads with a sense of readiness and eagerness to anticipate the needs of others as well as her own. I find her service to our guests and team members to be highly commendable.

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!

NEW STORE HOURS

Casino • Hotel • Golf • Cineplex • RV • Museum • Dining • Travel Plaza 800.654.9453 \\ Pendleton, OR \\ I-84, Exit 216 \\ wildhorseresort.com

13B

Monday – Saturday 7am – 8pm | Sunday 9am – 5pm 46493 Mission Rd. Pendleton, OR 97801 • 541-276-9082

Confederated Umatilla Journal

GAGA 4.21 WH042115

May 2021

TRIBAL NEWS

Meeting the Candidates Virtual Event PENDLETON - Community members, students and parents had the opportunity to meet school board candidates through a virtual candidate forum on Apr. 29.

The following candidates, Briana Spencer, Carrie Sampson-Samuels, and Preston Eagleheart are members of the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation (CTUIR). Hosted by the Pendleton Community Action Coalition and monitored by Anson Crane, each candidate answered a series of questions with limited time.

Ballots must be returned on Election Day, May 18 by 8 p.m.

Pictured LEFT ABOVE, Briana Spencer, Preston Eagleheart, and Carrie Sampson-Samuels.

Ribbon Cutting - Left to right, Robin Turk, Wenona Scott, Sandra Sampson, Althea Wolf, Jeremy Wolf, Jill-Marie Gavin, Boots Pond, Cor Sams, Lindsey X. Watchman.

CUJ Photo/Megan Van Pelt

Arena holds soft opening

By Megan Van Pelt of the CUJ

MISSION - Long time waiting for horse riders.

Past Arrowhead Travel Plaza on Patawa Road, around twenty people gathered for the Confederated Tribes of

DID YOU KNOW? Salmon, Huckleberries, and other resources were gathered seasonally. As with most foods the huckleberries had to be dried for future or winter use. Dried berries, roots, onions, nuts, herbs, spices, mushrooms, meat and fish would be dried and cached for later use. Foods would be dried individually or sometimes would be mixed and pounded to form cakes for storage. The hunting, gathering, and procurement of food and raw materials for tools was the order of the day. Living not only required a supply of raw material and food; an organizational strategy and an efficient disciplined skilled source of labor was required to ensure survival throughout the year. Fish were dried and pounded into cakes and packed into baskets for winter subsistence or commerce. Tribal fishermen would harvest from several different salmon runs occurring during different times of the year.

From ctuir.org/brief-history-of-ctuir

the Umatilla Indian Reservation (CTUIR) Horse Arena soft opening on Apr. 16.

Additionally, the K’usiinmí Tawtnúkt or Horse Medicine Program was announced to operate at the finished horse arena this coming June.

Tribal and community members were thrilled about the soft opening after much anticipation. Currently, tribal members may book reservations through Public Works Department.

“It looks so awesome!” remarked Ashley Picard, “such a great example of how collaboration can work out.”

After 25 years and now under tribal management, the horse arena is available for Tribal members and eligible Yellowhawk Tribal Health Center (YTHC) Behavioral Health patients.

“Looking forward to Tribal members using it and the development of the next phases,” says Board of Trustees (BOT) Vice-Chairman Jeremy Wolf.

Wolf also noted that the project was made possible by the “hard work of many”, including CTUIR Public Works Department, YHTC, Department of Child and Family Services (DCFS), BOLSTER, Workforce Development and community involvement.

“Overall, the feedback has been positive,” says Prosper Picard, Facilities Manager of the Public Works Dept. During phase one, Public Works and BOLSTER have been working periodically on the arena.

Throughout March, the combined crew installed gates, removed three old structures, turf, old telephone poles and wires. Picard emphasized that the biggest goal was to remove and clear out everything.

“Now moving into the second phase,” says Picard “installing a new pump house, well, electrical lights, and more.”

Yellowhawk will be introducing a new Horse Medicine Program, started

by Ashley Harding, the previous Native Connections Project Director.

This program involves Equine Therapy, a type of treatment that eligible Yellowhawk Behavioral Health Dept. patients to interact with horses, coming this June.

“Everyone that I’ve come across has Horse arena on page 15B

May 2021

Confederated Umatilla Journal

14B

TRIBAL NEWS CTUIR names newly-identified species of ancient saber-toothed cat

By Cary Rosenbaum of the CUJ

MISSION - An ancient, 600-pound saber-tooth cat prowled the area the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation call home at least 5 to 9 million years ago. Though its bones were in plain sight in multiple museums, it remained hidden until 2021.

Researchers announced in February the discovery of a new species, which they -- in conjunction with the CTUIR -- named after the Cayuse Tribe. The cat’s official name is Machairodus lahayishupup (Meh-CCHI-rhoduss Leh-HIGH-ees-hoop-oop).

The name acknowledges the ties to the CTUIR’s homeland and is a recent trend in paleontology, according to researcher John Orcutt, of Gonzaga University.

“There’s an increasing trend,” he said, “when naming new species to give it a name not in the dead European language, but in a language that’s sort of Indigenous to where it’s found. (Fellow researcher Jonathan Calede, of Ohio State University, and I) wanted to do that. We wanted to recognize the abundance of these things that have been found on or near the Confederated lands of the Umatilla.”

So how do you find an expert for such a naming process?

“We just mail spammed anyone who might be relevant,” Orcutt said, laughing.

Representatives at Tamastslikt Cultural Institute helped facilitate the naming.

“It just evolved from there,” Orcutt said.

The primary fossil used in the study was found in the ancestral Cayuse homeland more than six decades ago. The cat likely ate prey up 6,000 pounds, Orcutt said, suggesting their findings provide evidence of some of the largest big cats in Earth history.

Their findings were featured in an April 29 article in the Journal of Mammalian Evolution. There, the duo revealed the newly identified saber-toothed cat species as one of the largest in history. It roamed North America between five and nine million years ago. Machairodus is a genus of large saber-toothed cats that lived in Africa, Eurasia and North America.

Part of the naming team included CTUIR member Dr. Phillip Cash Cash, who provided linguistic research for the process. He decided the name should be derived from the ancient Cayuse language.

“The discovery of an ancient species on ancestral Weyíiletpuu (Cayuse) lands is a profoundly significant

Horse arena Continued from page 14B

had positive things to say about working with horses. Some have their own horses or had an experience with another equine therapy program” says Fabian Spencer, Native American Project Director.

Through interactions and communicating with horses, patients may find relief from mental health and substance abuse problems.

The Horse Medicine Program was made possible by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) Native Connections five-year grant program.

According to samhsa.gov, this grant program was established to aid American Indian and Alaska Native communities to identify and address the behavioral health needs of Native youth.

“The Behavioral Health department is working toward providing a valuable program that promotes health and heal-

15B

event,” Cash Cash said. “The naming of the new species of saber-toothed cat is culturally significant for the resident ancient cat, the Old Cayuse language, and the local CTUIR community, not to mention to the world of paleontology.”

Tribal officials want to honor the two professors at a later date.

A PARTNERSHIP STARTED IN EUGENE A little more than a decade ago, Orcutt and Calede were pursuing graduate degrees in Geology at the University of Oregon when Orcutt discovered an interesting bone in the school’s Museum of Natural and Cultural History.

“I was working in the museum there one quarter during grad school,” Orcutt said. “Along with the collections manager, we were going through the drawers. She’d just started. We were trying to make sure everything was in the place it was supposed to be.

“We opened up this one drawer of fossils from the Pendleton area, and there’s a huge arm bone in there labeled ‘Cat.’ We thought it had to be wrong. We did some research: Turns out it was a cat. It was just huge. So what is this thing?”

Both Orcutt and Calede had priorities beyond researching the cat at the time. It wasn’t until the COVID-19 pandemic occurred that they decided to dedicate the time to research the bones. The duo began going over collections at museums in the west, finding similar bones in Texas and Idaho.

“Every time at a museum, if there was a cat bone I would measure it so we had something to compare it to,” Orcutt said.

ing but also reinforces our Tribal Horse culture” states Spencer.

The program is accepting letters of interest from community members that have horses. Seeking horses and horse

Happy Birthday Brooklyn Jo Jones!

May 11-11 Beautiful Years We Love You! Sid Jones and Family

An artist’s depiction of Machairodus lahayishupup eating Hemiauchenia, a camel relative.

Roger Witter/Sci-News.com

Calede, who’s spent years studying rodents, found it interesting to research an ancient animal that preyed on the species in his normal field.

“I rarely spend time looking at big predators that are likely to be eating the rodents I work on,” he said. “It became quickly obvious that to identify this large fossil, it was going to require us to analyze a lot of modern animals and to do a very kind of rigorous quantitative analysis of their shape. I think that’s where I came in to help John and put that together.”

Contrasting the research against various other cats, the duo discovered the saber-tooth fossil represented a new species.

For Orcutt, it was exciting to be able to have the authority to select its name.

“It was my first time naming a new species,” he said.

“It’s not uncommon in paleontology because so much of life is extinct. It’s super exciting any time you get to name a new species of anything. What’s really exciting about it is it gives us more information that we can apply to these bigger picture questions that get us most excited about our research.”

The duo thanked the CTUIR for their assistance in naming the cat.

“I really appreciate the many people involved with coming up with this name,” Orcutt said.

“It’s neat to bridge culture and history together,” Calede said.

handlers to assist with Horse Medicine services. If interested, contact Fabian Spencer at FabianSpencer@yellowhawk. org or (541) 240-8425.

For CTUIR Horse Arena reservations

contact the Public Works Department, 541-429-7500 or 541-429-7507. For more information about the Horse Medicine Program, contact the Behavioral Health Department at 541-240-8425.

Happy Birthday Jacqueline Jones May 29 - We Love You! Mom and Family

Happy Birthday Sid Jones May 27 We Love You! Mom and Family

Confederated Umatilla Journal

May 2021

OBITUARIES/CLASSIFIEDS Jobs

Obituaries

ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS CITY OF ONTARIO

Vernon J. Guardipee, 68 June 21, 1952 – March 26, 2021 Vernon was born June 21, 1952 in Pendleton, OR to Theresa Shippentower and Melvin Guardipee. He grew up around the Pendleton, Thorn Hollow and Gibbon areas. He attended school at St. Andrew in Mission, OR, St. Mary’s Mission in Omak, WA and graduated high school at Riverside Oklahoma.

Vernon also served two years in the United States Marine Corps as a Lance Corporal at Camp Pendleton in San Diego County CA. He met the love of his life in 1979, Elvira Tankeal. They married Dec. 24 1979 at St. Andrew’s church. They had a total of 7 children.

Justin, Theresa, Raymond, Sophia, Cecil, Darrin, and Kristy. He also had 7 grandchildren, Isaiah, Margret, Amber, Terrell, Aiden, Liam and Atreyn.

Vernon loved to hunt, fish, play pool, read, cruise, travel and most of all, he oved spending time with his family. HE was a great story teller, loved striking up a conversation with anyone, even people he did not know.

Vernon is survived by his wife of 42 years Evira Guardipe.

Children – Theresa, Raymond, Cecil, Darrin and Kristy Grandchildren – Isaiah, Margret, Amber, Terrell, Aiden, Liam and Atreyn. Daughter-in-law, Rebecca Guardipee. Brothers Clifford, Cecil Shippentower, Larry Blue.

Vernon is preceded in death by parents Theresa Shippentower, Melvin Guardipee Sisters – Eloise Caldera, Rosalia Hines Children – Justin Guardipee, Sophia Guardipee Vernon fought a 10 year battle with cancer, he fought to the very end. He left the hospital on March 25 to be home with his family and friends.

He did not get to say goodbye to a lot of his family and his friends. The family wants all to know that he loved everyone. He was called home at his home in Gibbon, OR on March 26 at 2:30pm.

Amanda Rose John April 11, 1979 – April 20, 2021 Amanda Rose John 42, of Pendleton died Tuesday, April 20, 2021 in Walla Walla, Washington. She was born April 11, 1979 in Pendleton, Oregon.

Funeral Mass was held April 26, 2021 at St. Andrews Mission, followed by Burial at St. Andrews Cemetery.

Amanda was born in Pendleton, Oregon to Erma M. Sheoships and Charlie N. John.

In her early years she worked for the Salmon Corp. Salmon restoration and worked throughout her life at Wildhorse Casino & Hotel as utility maintenance, laundry worker and custodian.

She also last worked at the Tribal Governance Center as Housekeeping.

She loved the outdoors – camping, hiking and swimming. Love to sit by her window and just enjoy nature. She loved watching movies, listen to music. She enjoyed traveling and was fascinated by Bigfoot.

Survivors included Long life partner David McKay III of Pendleton, Sons Landon Sheoships, and Liam Sheoships of Pendleton - Brothers Jason Butler of Pendleton; Nelson John of Pendleton; Charleston John of Yakima, Washington – Sisters Elizabeth Butler of Walla Walla, Washington; Margaret Sheoships of Pendleton.

She was preceded in death by her parents Erma Sheoships and Charlie John, Step father George Walks On Top. Burns Mortuary of Pendleton is in charge of the arrangements. Sign the online guestbook at www.burnsmortuary.com.

ATTENTION GRADUATES: Send Graduation info with Tribal affiliation & picture to CUJ@CTUIR.ORG

ONTARIO, OREGON 2020 ONTARIO PIPELINE REHABILITATION Sealed Bids for the City of Ontario 2020 Sanitary Sewer Project-CBDG will be received by the City of Ontario Public Works, 1551 NW 9th Street, Ontario, Oregon 97914, until 11:30 am local time on June 15, 2021, and then at said office publicly opened and read aloud.

The Projects consists of rehabilitating sanitary sewer and parallel water mains at the following locations: Segment 1-3: – NOT USED Segment 2: – NOT USED Segment 3: – NOT USED Segment 4: – Install CIPP in approximately 1857 lineal feet of 8-inch sewer main, 861 lineal feet of 21-inch sewer main and 1,012 lineal feet of 24-inch sewer main and reconnect services with appurtenances. Also includes Pipe Burst of approximately 3,630 lineal feet of 8-inch sewer main, 510 lineal feet of 12-inch sewer main, 168 lineal feet of 18-inch sewer main and 3,850 lineal feet of 6-inch water main. Area generally includes portions of the lines located between SW 7th St on the west, S Oregon St on the east, SW 7th Ave on the north, and SW 11th Ave on the south: Digital bidding documents are available from Quest CDN. The digital documents cost $15.00.

To download online, go to http://goo.gl/VWGyy7.

Select the project name, a new window will appear, then select Download Bid Documents.

For assistance in free membership registration, downloading, and working with this digital project information, please contact QuestCDN.com at (952) 233-1632 or by email info@questcdn.com.

In determining the lowest responsive bid, the Owner will consider all acceptable bids on a basis consistent with the bid package. The Owner will also consider whether the bidder is a responsible bidder.

All bids must be signed and accompanied by evidence of authority to sign.

Bids must be accompanied by Bid Security in the form of a bid bond, certified check, cashiers check or cash in the amount of 5% of the amount of the bid proposal. Said bid security shall be forfeited to the City of Ontario as liquidated damages should the successful bidder fail to enter into contract in accordance with their proposal as specified in the Instructions to Bidders.

The contract shall be subject to the applicable provisions of ORS 279C.800 through 279C.870, the Oregon Prevailing Wage Law. All prospective bidders and their subcontractors shall be actively registered with the State of Oregon Construction Contractors Board.

The Bidder shall be aware that this project will be partially funded by a Community Development

Block Grant (CBDG), and the Bidder shall comply with all relevant requirements, forms and documents as outlined in these bidding documents including the “CDBG Clauses-Exhibit 5F “All Construction Contracts” in the Conditions of the Contract section.

The City of Ontario reserves the right to reject any or all proposals, waive any nonmaterial irregularities in the bids received, and to accept the proposal deemed most advantageous to the best interest of the City of Ontario.

Dates Advertised: May 6, 2021

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. See the complete list of job openings at

com.

www.cayuseholdings.

Our current opportunities include: Business Development Director, Computer User Support Specialist, Desktop Technician, Medical Analyst, Operations Analyst, Proposal Manager, Proposal Specialist, Airfield Manager, and Sr. Business Development & Capture Director.

Interested in Temporary Employment with CTUIR? Please fill out the 2021 Temporary Employment Application Questions: Contact Office of Human Resources at 541-429-7180 and sign in weekly (after application submitted) *Temporary Employees work 129 hours per calendar month or 29 hour work week*

Pendleton Pioneer Chapel received three prestigious awards in 2009

The Oregon Funeral Directors Association Award of Funeral Service Excellence w The Best Of Eastern Oregon Award as voted by the readers of the East Oregonian w Pendleton Chamber of Commerce 2009 Business of the Year

Our experienced family provides caring, compassionate care including:

Burial Services ~ Military Services Cremation ~ Monuments

May 2021

Confederated Umatilla Journal

16B

CLASSIFIEDS Jobs

Fishery Technician (III) (2 positions) Classification: Temporary, Full-time Salary: $40,533.00 - $43,234.00 (DOQ) Recruitment Period: May 28th, 2021 Location: La Grande, Oregon Start Date: June 28th, 2021 (Duration 3.5 months) Job Summary: The Columbia River Inter-Tribal Fish Commission (CRITFC) assists four tribes in the co-management of their treaty fishing rights within the Columbia River Basin. A key to ensuring our member tribes have a sustainable fishery is the ability to collect and assess information on the status of anadromous and resident fish populations and their habitats within the Columbia River Basin. The positions offered are associated with the Fishery Science Department’s Habitat/Watershed Group. This group assists CRITFC and the four treaty tribes with collection and analysis of data pertaining to stream habitat conditions, habitat restoration, and stream ecology.

These positions will focus on monitoring status and trends in habitat conditions for ESA-listed spring Chinook Salmon in the upper Grande Ronde River basin in northeastern Oregon.

Stream habitat data will be collected using a combination of remote sensing and instream habitat monitoring methods. The primary objectives of these positions are to collect data necessary to: 1) Assess current status, trends, and key limiting factors in fish habitat characteristics (e.g. water temperature, pool habitats, and fine sediment) to the viability of spring Chinook Salmon populations, and 2) Evaluate effectiveness of stream restoration actions aimed at improving key limiting habitat factors.

Job Duties: Specific duties may include, but are not limited to: Conduct stream habitat surveys including measurement of fish habitat characteristics such as channel unit type, channel dimensions (length, width, depth), large woody debris, substrate size, and stream temperature.

Collect macroinvertebrate samples using standard methods.

Assist with the capture and processing (measuring, tagging, and collection of tissue samples)

Josie Mae Isabel Craig March 3, 2021 7.2lbs, 19 3/4” Parents:

Fermore Craig Jr. & Stephanie Craig.

Big sisters: Tayler Craig and the late Hattie Craig

Big Brother: William Craig Grandparents: the late Fermore Sr. &

Priscilla Craig as well as Terri & Monte Wood

17B

of juvenile Chinook Salmon.

Conduct snorkel surveys to estimate fish abundance.

Record data using electronic data loggers and/or paper datasheets and transfer/enter data into a database.

Required Qualifications: We seek responsible and dependable individuals with interests in fisheries science and ecology who meet the following qualifications: An interest in fisheries science and experience collecting natural resource data in the field.

A Bachelor’s degree in fisheries or related field will substitute for work experience.

Familiarity with collection of scientific data in field settings using specialized equipment (e.g., data loggers, GPS, and laser range finders) and ability to execute detailed technical procedures.

Must be well organized with attention to detail and accurate record keeping.

Ability to work effectively and positively in a team environment or independently in field and office settings.

Must be able to effectively communicate both orally and in writing with people from a variety of agencies and cultures about the project objectives and methods.

Willingness to work under a variety of field conditions (e.g., hiking with gear to remote locations; hot, cold, and wet conditions involving up to 12-hour workdays wading in streams) A valid driver’s license, good driving record, and the ability to lift and carry objects weighing at least 50 pounds.

Must be available for work between the approximate dates of June 28th and September 30th.

Desired Qualifications: General knowledge of Pacific Northwest fish biology, aquatic or plant ecology, fish habitat requirements, fluvial geomorphology, and hydrology.

Experience conducting stream habitat surveys.

Experience with fish handling and sampling including electrofishing, seining, and PIT-tagging.

Supervision Received by Applicant: This position will be supervised by a field crew leader within the Fishery Science Department’s Habitat/ Watershed Science Group. However, a substantial amount of field work will be conducted independently by the field crew without direct supervision from a supervisor.

Supervision Given by Applicant: None Working Conditions: The position is based in the town of La Grande, Oregon (4.5 hour drive from Portland), where CRITFC maintains a field station. Field research activities typically extend from lateJune through September and involve long hours conducting physically demanding field work in hot and potentially inclement weather conditions.

The work schedule typically consists of an 8-day workweek, beginning on a Wednesday and ending on the Wednesday of the next week, followed by 6 days off. Work hours in excess of 40 hours per week will be compensated at 1.5 time. Field crew members will spend most of the workweek collecting data in the field. However, job duties will also include office work such as processing of macroinvertebrate samples, organizing and maintaining field equipment, and data management. Occasional camping far from the duty station may be required, and in this case CRITFC will offer a per diem. CRITFC staff will follow current COVID protocols and recommendations from public health authorities. Depending on an assessment of COVID risk near the start of the field season, co-ed housing may be provided at the CRITFC field station in La Grande; otherwise, employees are expected to arrange their own living accommodations.

CRITFC Motor Vehicle Policy: The driver operating a CRITFC vehicle or their own private vehicle for business related purposes shall be in possession of a valid,

unrestricted current driver’s license, or other operator’s license, as required by law; and be eligible for coverage under CRITFC’s Motor Vehicle insurance policy. Upon request, CRITFC’s Motor Vehicle policy is available to applicants to review the required criteria.

Application procedure: Hiring preference will be given to qualified enrolled members of federally recognized tribes and Alaska natives, especially to members of the four CRITFC member tribes (Warm Springs, Yakama, Umatilla, and Nez Perce).

Note: no incomplete application will be considered.

Send a complete application - materials include a cover letter, CV/resume, completed job application with signature, electronic or typed in signature is accepted (available on our website at www.critfc.org “employment opportunities” on the bottom left corner or by calling 503.238.0667), a copy of relevant certifications and a list of at least three professional references.

Submit to: Columbia River Inter-Tribal Fish Commission Attn: Human Resources 700 NE Multnomah Street, Suite 1200, Portland, Oregon 97232 Email: hr@critfc.org Fax: 503238.3555

Fishery Technician III (Lamprey Project) (3 positions) Classification: Temporary (3-4 months) Salary: $41,893.00 Recruitment Period: April 3-May 19, 2021 Location: Portland or The Dalles/Hood River Job Summary: The Columbia River Inter-Tribal Fish Commission (CRITFC) assists the four tribes in the co-management of their treaty rights within the Columbia River Basin. The position offered is associated with the Commission’s Fish Management Department, within the Lamprey project. The Lamprey project is directed toward implementing the objectives and actions outlined in the Tribal Pacific Lamprey Restoration Plan.

These objectives include improving mainstem and tributary passage and habitat; lamprey supplementation/augmentation (translocation and reintroductions); evaluate contaminants and water quality; regional coordination, education and outreach; and research, monitoring and evaluation. The Fishery Technician will be responsible for collecting a variety of biological data and samples under field and lab conditions and will be required to work with other agencies.

Work locations vary throughout the Columbia River Basin. The primary responsibilities of two of the positions will be trapping of adult Pacific lamprey at the mainstem dams in support of the tribes translocation program. The primary responsibility of the third position will be conducting creel surveys (Friday through Mondays) during the lamprey harvest season at Willamette Falls.

The technician will join the trapping crew when lamprey harvest season ends. Other duties may include assisting tribes with seasonal field work (e.g. , efish surveys, eDNA sample collections, screw trap monitoring, parentage based tagging, etc.) as needs arise. Field work occurs 7 days per week, June through September.

Essential Job Functions: The employee works closely with the Lamprey project in a developing capacity with increased responsibilities performing a range of duties and assignments. The duties for the Fishery Technician may include, but are not limited to: Setting and checking traps at the mainstem dams for collection, transport and holding of adult Pacific Lamprey for the CRITFC member tribes.

Driving from the Portland duty station to Bonneville, The Dalles, and John Day dams on a daily basis in CRITFC vehicles during the adult lamprey migration/trapping season.

Confederated Umatilla Journal

Monitor fish health during trapping, holding, and transporting.

Collect biological data, tissue samples, and execute technical procedures.

Operate electronic sampling equipment and computers.

Take detailed sampling notes, conduct data entry, and data management.

Must have the ability to work in remote field locations and inclement weather.

Travel to field sites outside the Portland area.

May require overnight stays.

Available to work a flexible work schedule (hours, days) and to be on call when necessary.

Work from Portland duty station, or The Dalles/Hood River.

Job Requirements / Qualifications: We seek responsible and dependable individuals with interests in environmental and fisheries sciences who meet the following required qualifications: Minimum High School diploma or equivalent. Two or more years relevant work experience in Fisheries Science, Fishery Technician or related field/position. A bachelor’s degree in fisheries or a related field preferred and may substitute for work experience. Familiarity with biological research and the ability to execute detailed technical procedures. Ability to collect and maintain high quality data records from field and laboratory work. Ability to work effectively, positively, and as a team in field, office, and laboratory settings. Ability to work flexible workdays and hours including early mornings, late evenings, and weekends (may work greater than 8 hours per day during the peak of the run).

Ability to travel for one or more nights at a time occasionally.

Supervision Received: This position reports to the Fish Management department Lamprey Biologist or Lamprey Project Lead.

Supervision Given: This position has no supervisory responsibilities Physical Working Conditions: This position will require occasional moving of heavy items, up to 50 lbs. to include setting and pulling lamprey pot traps up to 75 lbs. Ability to walk up and down stairs carrying heavy buckets. Additional or extended working hours may be required occasionally to meet job related duties and functions. Must be able work in physical environments requiring the employee to work both inside and outside in heat/cold, wet/humid, and dry/arid conditions.

COVID –19 prevention protocols are in place.

CRITFC Motor Vehicle Policy: The driver operating a CRITFC vehicle or their own private vehicle for business related purposes shall be in possession of a valid, unrestricted current driver’s license, or other operator’s license, as required by law; and be eligible for coverage under CRITFC’s Motor Vehicle insurance policy. Upon request, CRITFC’s Motor Vehicle policy is available to applicants to review the required criteria.

Application procedure: Hiring preference will be given to qualified enrolled members of federally recognized tribes and Alaska natives, especially to members of the four CRITFC member tribes (Warm Springs, Yakama, Umatilla, and Nez Perce).

Note: no incomplete application will be considered.

Send a complete application - materials include a cover letter, CV/resume, completed job application with signature, electronic or typed in signature is accepted (available on our website at www.critfc.org “employment opportunities” on the bottom left corner or by calling 503.238.0667), a copy of relevant certifications and a list of at least three professional references.

Submit to: Columbia River Inter-Tribal Fish Commission Attn: Human Resources 700 NE Multnomah Street, Suite 1200, Portland, Oregon 97232 Email: hr@critfc.org, Fax: 503238.3555

May 2021

CLASSIFIEDS/BOT MINUTES Jobs

BOT Minutes Date: April 5, 2021

CTUIR Job Openings • Executive Director, Dept. of Administration • Public Transit Bus Driver (2 positions) • Public Transit Bus Driver, On-Call • Archaeologist I/II • Deputy Prosecutor • Tribal Set-Aside Project Coordinator • Chemist 1 • Police Officer • Laborer • Tribal Attorney • Male Re-Education/Intervention Facilitator • Artificial Production Supervisor • Range Technician • Water Code Administrator/Water

Resource Specialist II • Administrative Assistant (Part Time) • Equioment Operator • Surveillance Operator • Advanced Wildland Firefighter • Entry-Level Wildland Firefighter/Type 2 •Fire Chief •Firefighter/EMT & Paramedic • Fisheries Habitat Biologist I

May 2021

BOT PRESENT: Ascertainment of Quorum.

BOT Present: Jeremy Wolf, Vice-Chair; Sandra Sampson, Treasurer; Sally Kosey, Secretary; Boots Pond, Member; Jill-Marie Gavin, Member; Corinne Sams, Member; Armand Minthorn, Member and Lindsey Watchman, General Council Chairman. Kat Brigham at another meeting and joined meeting at 9:37 AM. Quorum present Old Business: None: New Business Resolution 21-031: Topic: BIA FY’21 Water Rights Attorneys’ Fees Application.

RESOLVED ,that the Board of Trustees does hereby approve the Request of CTUIR for Use of Appropriated Funds for Attorneys’ Fees for Quantification and Settlement of Tribal Water Rights attached to this Resolution as Exhibit 1C to be submitted to the BIA to fund 2021 water rights activities by legal counsel to the Confederated Tribes; BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Board of Trustees hereby agrees that it will not use any attorney’s fees funding it receives pursuant to the attached Request of CTUIR for Use of Appropriated Funds for Attorneys’ Fees for Quantification and Settlement of Tribal Water Rights to pay for legal services to sue the Federal Government; AND BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED, that the Board of Trustees does hereby authorize its Chair or designee to execute and submit the attached Request of CTUIR for Use of Appropriated Funds for Attorneys’ Fees for Quantification and Settlement of Tribal Water Rights to the BIA; MOTION: Armand Minthorn moves to adopt Resolution 21-031. Jill-Marie Gavin seconds.

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

Resolution 21-032 Topic: Resolution 21-032: Topic: Board Procedure Code Amendments. RESOLVED, the Board of Trustees approves amendments to the Board Procedures Code reflected by Exhibit 1, a red line version reflecting the amendments. The purpose of the amendments is to clarify certain sections and update the agenda for official Board meetings; AND BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED, the Office of Legal Counsel will publish the amended code, and prior to such publication is authorized to add legislative history, ensure formatting consistency, accuracy in spacing, correct spelling and pagination, and update the table of contents; MOTION: Armand Minthorn moves to adopt Resolution 21-032. Sally Kosey seconds. Discussion.

Question. Motion carries 7 for (Sally Kosey, Armand Minthorn, Sandra Sampson, Lindsey Watchman, Boots Pond, Jill-Marie Gavin and Corinne Sams) – 1 against (Jeremy Wolf) – 0 abstaining.

Other Board Action Items: American Recovery Plan Treasury Response Letter to their questions .MOTION: Armand Minthorn moves to approve CTUIR response letter to Secretary of Treasury. Corinne Sams seconds. Discussion. Question. Motion carries 8-0-0.

Moss-Adams 2020 WRC Audit Motion: MOTION: Sally Kosey moves to accept the 2020 External Audit of the Wildhorse Resort & Casino completed by Moss Adams LLP and authorize the CTUIR Gaming Commission to submit said audit to the National Indian Gaming Commission (NIGC) before the April 30, 2021 deadline. Jill-Marie Gavin seconds.

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

BOT Travel Reports: Boots Pond, 3/23 to 3/25 online training re: Tribal Land Staff Conference.

Kat Brigham, 10 reports: 3/5 and 3/12, two separate Zoom meetings re: Simpson Proposal Tribal Consultation.

3/16, Conference call re: monthly meeting with BPA Administrator John Hairston.

3/16, Conference call re: talk with Richard Whitman, Director of ODEQ. BOT scheduled a work session with ODEQ on 5/19 from 1:30 to 3 PM. 3/16, Zoom re: Siletz and Warm Springs

Chairs prep for 3/18 meeting with Gov. Brown.

3/18, Zoom re: Gov. Brown meeting with Grand Ronde, Siletz, CTUIR, Warm Springs and Yakama about Willamette Falls issue.

3/26, Zoom re: Nez Perce Chair hosted a Tribal Simpson Zoom meeting.

3/29, zoom re: 4 Chairs on CR Housing and Simpson proposal.

3/30, zoom re: annual meeting with UPRR. 3/31, zoom re: Sen. Merkley meeting with 9 Tribes to respond to APR questions.

Sandra Sampson, 3/5 Virtual meeting re: HHS Tribal Consultation Policy.

MOTION: Jeremy Wolf moves to approve the 12 travel reports. Boots Pond seconds. Discussion. Question. Motion carries 7-0-0 BOT Leave and Travel Requests: Jeremy Wolf, 3 requests: 4/7 travel to Portland for FWC subsistence distribution.

4/12 Virtual meeting from 12:30 to 2:30 PM re: Tribal Consultation & Strengthening the Nation-2-Nation Relationships.

3/31polled leave for Video Conferencing re: State of the Basin; Habitat and Hatchery Workshop from 9 AM to 4 PM. Kat Brigham, 3/31polled for personal leave from 7:30 to 10AM Lindsey Watchman, polled personal leave for 4/5 for 3 hours in afternoon and all day on all day on 4/6.

Sally Kosey and Boots Pond, 4/7 travel from 1:30 to 3:30 PM to attend WWVMPO/SRTPO meeting.

Sandra Sampson, 4/6 Zoom re: WW3MP meeting from 6 to 8 PM. MOTION: Jeremy Wolf moves to ratify and approve the 8 leave requests. Boots Pond seconds. Discussion. Question. Motion carries 7-0-0.

Steakhouse and the Birch Creek Golf Course Clubhouse; MOTION: Jeremy Wolf moves to adopt Resolution 21-033. Jill-Marie Gavin seconds. Discussion. Question. Motion carries 8-0-0.

Other Board Action: None BOT Travel Reports.

Kat Brigham, five reports. Jeremy Wolf said in interest of time he read the reports and motioned to approve.

4/1 Zoom re: Kat attended BOT WS and did not attend the U of I NAAC Spring 2021 meeting.

Brandie Weaskus attended.

4/2 Zoom re: LCIS interviews with top two candidates for ED position.

4/2 Zoom re: Accord Tribes meeting with BPA from 11 AM to 12:30 PM. 4/5 Zoom re: Gov. Inslee meeting with the CR Tribes on Rep. Simpson proposal.

4/5 Zoom re: 4 Chairs meeting to review draft agenda, attendance form and prep for Gov. Inslee Zoom meeting.

BOT Leave and Travel Request: Jeremy Wolf, polled leave for 4/12 for SPOD rescheduled virtual meeting from 2-3 PM. Jeremy Wolf, polled leave on 4/9 from 1 to 4 PM. Jill-Marie Gavin, polled personal leave for afternoon of 4/7.

Kat Brigham, personal leave on 4/13 from 1-2 PM. Kat Brigham, travel on 4/30 from 10 AM to 3 PM to Kennewick for MOU signing Ceremony and taking GSA. Sally Kosey, personal leave all day on Fri. 4/16.

Sally Kosey, travel on 4/30 from 10 AM to 3 PM to Kennewick for MOU signing Ceremony.

Sandra Sampson, travel on 4/8 from noon to 4 PM.

Date: April 12, 2021 BOT PRESENT: Kat Brigham, BOT Chair; Jeremy Wolf, Vice-Chair; Sandra Sampson, Treasurer; Sally Kosey, Secretary; Armand Minthorn, Member; Boots Pond, Member; Jill-Marie Gavin, Member; Corinne Sams, Member and Lindsey Watchman, General Council Chairman. Full quorum present.

Old Business: Poll 21-007 Topic: Letter to OMB re: the BOT support the CTUIR response to the OMB consultation and coordination request for 2021.

New Business: Proposed Resolutions: Next resolution number is 21-033: Resolution Resolution 21-033: Topic: Hamley’s Steakhouse and Birch Creek Golf Course Leases. RESOLVED, that the Board of Trustees hereby approves the Lease between the Confederated Tribes and Wildhorse Enterprises, LLC for the Hamleys Steakhouse attached to this Resolution as Exhibit 1C; AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Board of Trustees hereby approves the Lease between the Confederated Tribes and Wildhorse Enterprises, LLC for the Birch Creek Golf Course Clubhouse attached to this Resolution as Exhibit 2C; AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Board of Trustees authorizes its Chair to execute the attached Leases on behalf of the Confederated Tribes, or documents containing substantially similar terms, and to take such further action and execute documents that may be necessary to accomplish the purposes of this Resolution; AND BE IN FINALLY RESOLVED, that the Board of Trustees hereby directs the Chief Executive Officer of the Wildhorse Resort and Casino, who is also the Manager of Wildhorse Enterprises, LLC, to negotiate and execution contracts with the Oregon Lottery for video lottery terminals in the Hamleys

Confederated Umatilla Journal

Date: April 19, 2021 BOT PRESENT: Kat Brigham, BOT Chair; Jeremy Wolf, Vice-Chair; Sandra Sampson, Treasurer; Sally Kosey, Secretary; Boots Pond, Armand Minthorn, Member; Jill-Marie Gavin, Member; Corinne Sams, Member and Lindsey Watchman, General Council Chairman. Full quorum, present Old Business: Official Poll Number: 21008 Topic: Tribal Consultation Proxy. Roberta ” Bobbie” Conner designated proxy for Tribal Consultation for Museum and Library Services.

MOTION: Jill-Marie Gavin moves to ratify Polled Action 21-008. Corinne Sams seconds. Discussion. Question. Motion carries 8-0-0.

New Business: Resolution 21-034 Topic: COVID-19 Response Indirect Costs. RESOLVED, the Board of Trustees hereby appropriates the Tribal Contingency funds as set forth in the Tribal COVID Response Funding attached to this Resolution as Exhibit 1C in Part IV to pay for indirect costs associated with the Coronavirus Relief Funds expenditures related to COVID-19 response; AND, that said Resolution has not been modified amended or repealed and is still in full force and effect. MOTION: Corinne Sams moves to adopt Resolution 21-034. Sally Kosey seconds. Discussion. Question. Motion carries 8-0-0.

Other Board Action Items: None.

BOT Travel or External Meeting Reports.

Kat Brigham, April 16 meeting at WRC regarding Columbia River Housing.

MOTION: Sally Kosey moves to approve the travel report. Lindsey Watchman seconds.

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

BOT Leave and Travel or Outside Meeting Requests.

Almanac on page 19B

18B

BOT MINUTES/WEATHER Weather

BOT Minutes Continued from page 18B Armand Minthorn, polled personal leave for April 21-23.

Jeremy Wolf, poll for April 16 meeting from 9 AM to noon re: Bringing the Salmon Homes – The Columbia River Salmon Reintroduction Initiative.

Kat Brigham, April 19, 4 to 4:30 PM Conference Call with Governor Brown to discuss, gambling & consent decree.

Kat Brigham, April 20, 2:30 to 3 PM Conference call with Sen. Simpson.

Kat Brigham, April 23 from 3 to 4 PM special Zoom meeting with LCIS re: hire LCIS Director.

Kat Brigham, verbal request for April 20, conference call from 9-9:30 AM with Head Start and CTUIR staff.

Kat Brigham, verbal request for April 20 regular meeting from 1-1:30 pm with BPA Director.

Sally Kosey, birthday leave on May 28 all day.

Sally Kosey, personal leave on Friday, April 30 all day Sandra Sampson, polled personal leave, April 16 from 7:30 to 9 AM. Sandra Sampson, personal leave all day April 23.

MOTION: Corinne Sams moves to ratify and approve the 11 leave requests. Jill-Marie Gavin seconds. Discussion. Question. Motion carries 8-0-0.

CTUIR Weather Report April 2021 Weather information summarize data taken at the Pendleton Weather Station Lat 45 40 N and Lon -118 51 W from April 1 to April 30. Temperature is reported in degrees Fahrenheit and time in Pacific Standard Time.

The average daily temperature was 64.1 degrees with a high of 81 degrees on April 18 and a low of 21 degrees on April 12. With a departure from normal of -0.7 degrees Total precipitation to date in April was 0.22 with greatest 24hr average 0.21 on April 24th+25th. 2 days out of the month had precipitation level greater than .01 inches with 1 days greater than 0.10 inches and with 0 day greater than 0.50”. There was a departure of -0.81” from average for the month of April.

The average wind speed was 9.2 mph with a sustained max speed of 40.0 mph from the West on April 10. A peak speed of 44 mph occurred from the West on April 8.The dominant wind direction was from the West.

There were 0 Thunder storms, 2 days out of 30 in which some rain fell, 0 Haze events/days, 0 Fog/Mist. Air Quality Index values remained Green/Healthy. Heavy winds and sunshine made up most of the daily weather in April. We lost almost a full inch of rain.

CTUIR Government Board of Trustees

General Council

Chair Kathryn Brigham

Chair Lindsey X. Watchman

Vice Chair Jeremy Wolf

Vice Chair Michael Ray Johnson

Treasurer Sandra Sampson Secretary Sally Kosey

Secretary Shawna Gavin Interpreter Thomas Morning Owl

At-large BOT Members: Jill-Marie Gavin General Council contact Info Office: 541-429-7378 Armand Minthorn Email: GeneralCouncil@ctuir.org Boots Pond Meeting updates and information on: www.ctuir.org/government/general-council Corinne Sams

EASTERN OREGON CENTER FOR

Interim Executive Director: Paul Rabb

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

EOCIL is operated by people with disabilities.

Services Available:

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

- Peer Counseling - Individual Advocacy - Life Transitions (school to employment, home to home, corrections to community, etc.)

- LGBTQ and two spirit resources

- Support Groups - Youth Mentoring Project - Emergency Disaster Planning and Services - Emergency Financial Assistance - Accessibility Assistance - HIV Community Services - And many other services -www.eocil.org

Locations: EOCIL has three locations: 322 SW 3rd St., Pendleton, Ore. webpage: www.eocil.org Email: eocil@eocil.org 541-276-1037 711 Relay Toll free: 1-877-711-1037 1021 SW 5th Avenue, Ontario, Ore. 541-889-3119 Voice 711 Relay Toll free 1-844-489-3119

The Dalles Office 400 East Scenic Drive Building 2, Third Floor, Suite 2 The Dalles, Oregon 541-370-2810 Toll free: 1-844-370-2810 Providing services in Harney, Malheur, Baker, Union, Grant, Wallowa, Umatilla, Morrow, Wheeler and Gilliam, Wasco, Sherman and Hood River counties.

EOCIL is a supporter of:

aocil.org • endhivoregon.org • adrcoforegon.org

Memorial Day - May 31 19B

Confederated Umatilla Journal

May 2021

SKYROCKETING PRIZES EVERY WEEKEND! P TO U N WI Drawings every 30 minutes 5-10pm

H CAS WIN

Drawings every 30 minutes 11pm-12am

D H AN S A C IES ENTR

O UP T N I W Drawings every 30 minutes 5-10pm

TO P U WIN SUNDAY, MAY 30

Winners are guaranteed to win $10,000, and can add more cash in the Mars Adventure Game on stage!

H CAS

EARN 2X–100X EVERY WEDNESDAY!

S R E I L IP T L U M

Swipe at an

to play!

HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY • MAY 9

MOMS GOLF FOR FREE! Mothers golf for free when playing with immediate family members on Sunday, May 9!

M M WINS BIG! WIN A FAMILY FUNPLEX PACKAGE ON MOTHER’S DAY!

Five winners selected • 4-4:30pm

541.966.1655

Package Includes: h $200 FreePlay h $55 Pins & Pizza Bowling Package h 8 Cineplex Passes

541.276.5588

One entry per day by swiping at an May 7-9.

Maximum one free round per foursome. Golf cart not included.

For best results, schedule tee time in advance. Valid at both courses.

Mom

TREAT TO A

MEAL TO REMEMBER MOTHER’S DAY SPECIALS

View menus at wildhorseresort.com

DINING

Must be present to win. Limit one prize per player.

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.

May 2021

Gaga04.22 WH042123

Confederated Umatilla Journal

20B