Redding Rancheria Newsletter
September 2025
National Day for Truth and Reconciliation
“National Day for Truth and Reconciliation,” often referred to as Orange Shirt Day or Every Child Matters Day, is observed annually on September 30th in Canada and has recently gained popularity for indigenous people in the US. The day serves to honor and remember Indigenous children who were sent to residential schools, where they experienced cultural suppression, abuse, and, in many cases, death.
The origin of the day is tied to Phyllis Webstad who is Northern Secwpemc (Shuswap) from the Stswecem’c Xgat’tem First Nation (Canoe Creek Indian Band), and at the age of six, had her new orange shirt taken away on her first day at a residential school. This orange shirt has since become a symbol of the stripping away of Indigenous culture and identity. The color orange represents how the Indigenous children felt—worthless and insignificant due to their treatment at these institutions.
Orange Shirt Day also coincides with the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, a holiday established in response to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action. This day is dedicated to acknowledging the tragic history and lasting impacts of the residential school system, as well as promoting ongoing reconciliation efforts.
By wearing orange, individuals show support for survivors and their families, acknowledge the historical injustices, and commit to ensuring such atrocities never happen again.
Health is Wealth and This Gathering Proves It!
Out of all the events we host each year, the Tribal Member Wellness Conference just might take the crown! Why? Because it’s more than a gathering — it’s a celebration of who we are and how we care for ourselves, together.
Imagine a weekend where mind, body, and spirit take center stage. A place where laughter echoes off climbing walls, creativity flows through paintbrushes and beads, and ancient traditions blend with modern wellness. That’s what makes this conference truly special.
From facials and body sculpting to sweat lodge ceremonies with Art Garcia, we came together to honor health in every form. The tiny tattoos with Cheri Morris and Jesse Jentzen? Instant hit. The bounce house and giant water slide? The kids couldn’t get enough! And while the little ones got their faces painted, adults explored everything from necklace making with GoodIron Beadworks to natural baby rattle crafting — hands-on fun with meaning behind every bead and branch. We moved our bodies, nourished our spirits, and reconnected with our roots — through archery, painting, hair and nail stations, and workshops led by inspiring wellness experts.
These gatherings aren’t just fun (though, let’s be honest — they’re a blast). They’re powerful. They remind us that wellness is not a luxury — it’s a way of life. When we invest in our health, we invest in our families, our communities, and our future.
Here’s to more moments like this — where culture, connection, and care come together in the best way possible.
Members Wellness Conference Moments
Through the Mud and Muck, We
Conqured Together!
Over tires and under wires, through mud pits, puddles, and slides — the Redding Rancheria Tribal Members and Employees showed up and showed out!
We were beyond thrilled to see the return of the legendary Nash Ranch Mud Run, and we didn’t hold back. A fearless crew of 36 wild and crazy warriors took on the 5K course, charging through 25 epic obstacles designed to challenge the body and thrill the spirit.
From climbing ropes to leaping logs, slipping, sliding, laughing, and high-fiving through every muddy moment — it was a day of teamwork, grit, and unforgettable fun.
A huge shout out and heartfelt THANK YOU to the 20-30 Club and Nash Ranch for bringing back this muddy playground. We ran amuck and loved every second of it.
We’re already counting down the days until we get muddy again!
Redding Rancheria Welcomes “Leadership Redding Class of 2025”
For many years, the Redding Rancheria has welcomed the Leadership Redding class so we can share the history of the Redding Rancheria with active and involved members of the greater Redding Community.
Our Chief Executive Officer, Tracy Edwards, welcomed the class with a traditional native greeting. Tracy, dressed in full traditional regalia, took questions, shared her experience growing up and working for the Redding Rancheria. Tracy introduced the award-winning documentary “With the Strength of our Ancestor’s”, which gives a detailed history of the foundation of the Redding Rancheria Tribe, the building of the first casino, and many more historical events for the tribe.
Later, the Cultural Department gave a presentation on the art of basket weaving and even shared examples that are nearly 150 years old. The Cultural Department showed many different types of baskets and the purposes behind their functions and designs. The class was able to pass around the baskets to get an up-close look.
The morning concluded by taking a walk along the Redding Rancheria Creek trail. This well-maintained trail runs along Clear Creek. Along the trail, you will find signs that tell the stories of the local animals in the area. At the end of the trail comes the Redding Rancheria Arbor, a special place created for ceremonies and rites of passage. We are honored to have Leadership Redding visit us each year. Redding Rancheria values educating the community on the past and traditions of this land and the people who first lived here. The support and connections made through Leadership Redding have benefitted the Tribe, Leadership Redding, and the community as a whole!
Redding Rancheria Welcomes
“Leadership Redding Class of 2025”
Recovery Happens 2025 A Community United in Becoming our Best!
After months of planning, conversations, and dedication, the 2025 Recovery Happens event has come to a close — and what a powerful journey it’s been.
The Redding Rancheria Tribal Health System is honored to stand alongside Shasta Community Health and so many incredible local partners in this effort. Together, we are committed to lifting up our community, creating pathways to healing, and ensuring that no one has to face recovery alone.
Recovery Happens is only possible because of the hard work and heart of our local nonprofit treatment providers, sober-living homes, health clinics, and government agencies. These organizations come together throughout the year to plan, support, and celebrate recovery in all its forms.
We believe that strength through recovery is real — that every better choice builds a better future. This work is about more than one event. It’s about compassion, access, hope, and standing by those who are underserved or unsure where to turn.
A brighter day is possible — and for anyone ready to ask for help, know this: We are here. We are ready. And we care.
Honoring the Families of the Redding Rancheria
At the Redding Rancheria, we are proud to be a family oriented employer. Across health, government, education, and enterprise, many of our employees do not just work side by side — they are family. That connection is what makes our community so strong.
We are excited to share the stories of families who work together here, highlighting both the strength of our workforce and the traditions that guide us forward.
Kirk Blue:
“My favorite thing about working at Win-River Resort & Casino is probably the medical, dental, and vision benefits. It is the best place in Redding. I do not think there are too many places in Redding that offer all these great benefits. I appreciate the Tribe — they have always treated me like family. I have always felt included, and I love Tracy.”
Ron Blue:
“I consider Win-River Resort & Casino to be my second family. If you do not like the position you are in, they are more than willing to find a position that is a better fit for you. They figure out where you work best, place you there, and treat you wonderfully. Once you are in, you can go anywhere. Almost immediately, your benefits kick in, and you also receive bonuses. It is fantastic.”
We are proud of the journeys, growth, and dedication of our team members. Together, we are building a lasting legacy for future generations.
Center for Advanced Care Offers
Specialty Care and more!
Faith Clause, FNP-C Neurologist
Faith Clause, FNP-C, is a dedicated family nurse practitioner who has specialized in neurology since completing her training in 2016. She brings both expertise and compassion to her work, helping patients navigate the complexities of chronic neurologic conditions. She has a sub-specialty with board certification in multiple sclerosis treatment and management.
In 2021, Faith and her family relocated from the Midwest to Northern California, driven by a shared mission to expand access to neurological care in the underserved communities of the North State. Outside of her clinical work, Faith finds joy in exploring the outdoors and cherishing time with her children.
Employee Of The Month
Please help us congratulate Tonya Geers for earning Employee of the Month for September 2025. Tonya consistently goes above and beyond to assist her department with contracts and documentation, ensuring everything runs smoothly. Tonya consistently motivates the team not just in staying organized, but also in prioritizing wellness helping to create a positive and balanced work environment. Tonya leads by example with her willingness to support others, always looking out for teammates and stepping in to help whenever needed making her very deserving of this award. We are proud of your efforts and applaud your dedication! We are thankful for all you do to help Redding Rancheria be at its best!
