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August 2026 newsletter

Page 1


DEE-NI' NUU-WEE-YA'

Closing the childcare gap for children under 3

The Nation celebrated the completion of the 7,500-square-foot expansion to its Head Start Early Learning Program facility in Smith River — closing a childcare gap for children 3 years and younger.

The $3.5 million project was marked by a July 22 ribbon cutting attended by Tribal Citizens, staff, Tribal Council members and federal government representatives.

"This project is a model of teamwork and effort to meet the need for culturally appropriate early learning for infants and toddlers," Tribal Councilmember Amanda O'Connell said during the ceremony. "Please join me in recognizing our various

departments — especially planning, finance, and education — as well as our funding partners, construction crews and subcontractors. This project is a testament to the dedication and perseverance of everyone who has long sought improved educational opportunities for our children."

See Head Start, Page 2

Head Start

As a sovereign nation, we provide quality educational opportunities to tribal children in Del Norte and Curry County. With the completion of the new addition, we can provide childcare and educational services year-round for up to 16 children ages 0-3, including pregnant mothers. The expansion complements our existing Head Start program, which continues to serve children ages 3 to 5 years old and includes a year-round program.

The new addition includes classrooms, spaces for meals, storage, activities and social gatherings. It also features spaces where teachers and parents can discuss Individual Educational Plans for children, and the Parent Advisory Committee can meet.

The Nation expanded the Head Start program because many of the families with enrolled children do not have placement for their children under the age of 3. This creates a barrier for employment, as childcare costs exceed the affordability factor for parents. Further complicating the matter, working parents of multiple aged children are currently forced to travel for services at separate locations due to the age factors between Early Head Start and Head Start.

Wednesday's ribbon cutting ceremony featured a prayer by Tribal Council Vice Chair Scott Sullivan, a traditional youth dance line led by singer Garrett Campbell, and speeches by Education Director Sheryl Steinruck and Head Start Manager Amanda Bommelyn.

The Tribal Council recognized the financial support of and gave traditional gifts to visiting dignitaries from the Office of Head Start: Lizabeth White, director; Genia Bryant, program specialist; and Todd Lertjuntharangool Regional Director. They also recognized

representatives of major funder Yuhaaviatam of San Manuel Nation: Monique Osorio, Manager of Community Enhancement, and Jessica Stops, VP of Tribal Brand Marketing. Mala Sablok, contractor and AIAN Early Childhood

Specialist, and the Nation's former Head Start Manager Jennifer Reid were also recognized and given gifts. The ceremony concluded with refreshments and tours of the new facility.

Visitors tour a classroom inside the new Head Start addition. The Nation's construction crew are recognized for their work.
VIP Todd Lertjuntharangool is gifted a necklace from Tribal Council Chair Debbie Boardman during the ceremony.
A mother and child tour the hallway of the new building.
Education Director Sheryl Steinruck introduces the youth performing traditional dances as part of the ribbon cutting ceremony.

All Council: council@tolowa.gov

Chairperson, Debbie Boardman (707) 951-0966, dboardman@tolowa.gov

Vice Chair, Scott D. Sullivan (707) 954-6127, scott.sullivan@tolowa.gov

Secretary, Jeri Lynn Thompson (707) 951-3875, jeri.thompson@tolowa.gov

Treasurer, Jaytuk Steinruck (707) 954-5971, jaytuk.steinruck@tolowa.gov

Council Member, Dr. Joseph Giovannetti (707) 218-6569, joseph.giovannetti@tolowa.gov

Council Member, Amanda O'Connell (707) 954-5271, amanda.oconnell@tolowa.gov

Council Member, Dorothy Wait (707) 218-7346, dwait@tolowa.gov

Executive Director, Troy Ralstin (707) 487-9255, ext. 1220, troy.ralstin@tolowa.gov

Assistant Executive Director, Thomas Metz (707) 487-9255, ext. 1229, thomas.metz@tolowa.gov

Administrative Services Director, Emily Reed (707) 487-9255 , ext. 1182, emily.reed@tolowa.gov

Chief Financial Officer, Jose Tercilla (707) 487-9255, ext. 1115, jose.tercilla@tolowa.gov

CFW Director, Teela James (707) 487-9255, ext. 1139, teela.james@tolowa.gov

Community Development Director, Tim Hoone (707) 487-9255, ext. 1230, tim.hoone@tolowa.gov

Education Director, Sheryl Steinruck (707) 487-9255, ext. 1173, sheryl.steinruck@tolowa.gov

Enrollment & Elections, Angel Escobar 707-487-9255, ext. 1181, angel.escobar@tolowa.gov

Housing Manager, Jeri Robertson (707) 487-9255, ext. 1605, jeri.robertson@tolowa.gov

Public Safety Director, Tim Sanderson (707) 487-9255, ext. 1260, tim.sanderson@tolowa.gov

Natural Resources Director, Rachel McCain (707) 487-3233, rachel.mccain@tolowa.gov

Self-Governance Officer, Darrel Aubrey 707-487-9255, ext.1159, darrel.aubrey@tolowa.gov

Tribal Court Administrator, Elsie Petrie 707-487-9255, ext. 1162, elsie.petrie@tolowa.gov

Tribal Employment Rights Officer, Brian Millett (707) 487-9255, ext. 1222, brian.millett@tolowa.gov

Tribal Heritage Preservation Office, Cynthia Ford (707) 487-9255, ext. 1701, cynthia.ford@tolowa.gov

DAY MIN’-NE’

Gearing up for back to school

Ocean View multi-use path moving forward ................................................................5

Dee-ni' Night and Day information............................................................................6-7

Nation pursues energy sovereignty..............................................................................8

Obituary: Remembering Constance Payne Wilson ....................................................11

Tolowa Divers earn rescue certificates.......................................................................13

Nation's parade float wins award................................................................................12 Tribal Citizen birthdays...............................................................................................16

Event calendar & elder lunch menu...........................................................................19

Laa-nii-srvt-naa-taa-num-nii~-ma~s (August) 2026 Tribal Government Newsletter published by the Tolowa Dee-ni' Nation, 12801 Mouth of Smith River Road, Smith River, CA 95567. Find our website at tolowa.gov. Articles do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the Tribal Council of the Tolowa Dee-ni' Nation or their staff. The Tribal Council of the Tolowa Dee-ni' Nation reserves the right to use their discretion in the information they publish. As per the Tribal Council of the Tolowa Dee-ni' Nation, no article shall be published or acknowledged in the tribal newsletter that does not promote and protect the best interests of the Nation. For information, contact Public Information Officer Scott Graves at scott.graves@tolowa.gov, call 707-487-9255.

Tribal citizens preserve smelt as part of their annual summer lhvmsr xwee-ghatlh-ghelh-dvn, or fish camp, in Smith River.

Preparing community youth for back to school

Several hundred native and nonnative youth and their families from the community filled Rowdy Creek Park Tuesday, July 21, for the Nation's annual Back to School event. The event, from 4:30 to 8 p.m., featured fun culture-based games and catered food from Pancho's restaurant and Rolling Sesame. It was also an opportunity for children to receive much-needed school supplies and educational information from the Community and Family Wellness Department.

During the event, CFW staff and representatives from local public safety agencies greeted families with smiles, hands-on demonstrations and displays. There were also carnival-type games and educational booths, many of which focused on Tolowa Dee-ni' culture related to the natural environment.

Shu' shaa nin-la (thank you) to the Nation's staff and community partners who made it all happen!

Citizens learn more about proposed multi-use path

Tribal citizens and Smith River community members learned more about a proposed Ocean View Drive Pathway Project to make the road safer for pedestrians during a July 21 community meeting at the Nation's Tribal Justice Center.

"I've responded to numerous (emergency) calls on this section of road, and sometimes it's not pretty," Smith River Fire Protection District Firefighter Chris Amos said during the meeting. "I am glad the tribe is trying to do something about this and make it safer for everyone."

The meeting was one of the first steps in the planning and design phase of the multiuse path project, which the Nation believes would bring long-needed improvements to a busy road that has been difficult and dangerous to walk or bike on for many years. The next steps are to continue advancing the design, which is currently at about 30 percent, and secure grant funding to make the project a reality.

"It was great to see the Nation's members, TDN staff, and Smith River community members come together to discuss the project," said Julian Markussen Jr., lead transportation planner for the Nation. "I feel like we had great conversations and

meaningful engagement, and the public provided valuable feedback and asked thoughtful questions that will help strengthen the project as we move forward."

The initial project will focus on improving the narrow, curvy section of Ocean View Drive between the Tribal

with the Nation's Planning Department staff at the July meeting to answer citizens' questions.

The path, as it's currently designed, includes a retaining wall in certain spots to support a 10-foot-wide trail and 5-foot-wide green area on the west side of Ocean View Drive, which has a 45-mph speed limit. The trail would likely encroach on the edge of some private properties, which led some citizens to ask how property owners might respond to this.

"We will have one-on-one meetings with individual property owners to discuss mitigating factors and fair market value of each property to find out what works for them," said Tim Hoone, the Nation's Community Development Director. "We are hopeful we can come to an agreement that will work for them and allow us to make the road safer for all."

headquarters and Lucky 7 Casino. The Nation is working with Native Strategies, a Native American-owned engineering and design team, to prepare a full design that supports safer travel, better access, and a more connected community. Members of the team joined

Tribal Citizen Garrett Campbell said lowering the speed limit on the road (currently 45mph) would make it safer. However, planners said that is not within the scope of the project but hope the proposed improvements will inspire other agencies to make additional safety improvements, including lower speed limits, in the future.

ABOVE: A multi-use trail is planned for the west side of Ocean View Drive between the Tribal Headquarters and the Lucky 7 Casino.
Citizens ask questions of Nation planning staff and Native Strategies representatives.

Vendors sought for Dee-ni' Day

The 19th annual Dee-ni’ Day is Saturday, Sept. 12, in Smith River, and registration is now open for food and art vendors, horseshoe tournament, men and women gambling, stick games, regalia showcase, and the Tribal Citizen Art Show.

The free, family-friendly event, which draws thousands of people, is open to entire community and from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Howonquet Hall Community Center at 101 Indian Court in Smith River, across from the Lucky 7 Casino. The event also features kid activities, cultural demonstrations, and a photo booth.

Vendors spaces fill up fast and fees increase after Aug. 15. Fill out the vendor application at tolowa.gov/329/DEE-NI-DAY. For more vendor information: tero@ tolowa.gov or call 707-487-9255.

Cash prizes are awarded to winners in the stick games, horseshoe tournaments, art show and gambling. The stick games call for teams of three people in various age categories starting at 6 years old. The horseshoe tournament is open to teams of two, single elimination.

The Tribal Citizen Art Show is open to Tribal Citizens 8 years and older, with one entry per category. The gambling tournament is open to men, with a 6-person per team limit for men, and to women, with a 2-person per team limit.

For more information or to register for activities visit www. tolowa.gov/329/DEE-NI-DAY.

Nation pursues long-term energy independence

Tolowa Dee-ni' Nation hosted a week-long "Energy Sovereignty and Transformative Community Planning" workshop in July to review existing energy issues, conditions, identify priorities and gaps, and begin shaping a preliminary energy vision, values, and planning direction.

"This week was a great event and will be vital to the success of the future of the Nation's energy sovereignty and self-sufficiency," said Renewable Energy Coordinator Jadelin Castellaw. "We look forward the continued development and completion of the Energy Sovereignty Plan."

The event brought together Tribal leadership, Council representatives, directors, staff, youth, community members, as well as the U.S. Department of the Interior, Division of Energy and Mineral Development (DEMD).

The purpose of this event was to help inform and feed the development of a Tolowa Deeni' Nation "Energy Sovereignty Plan," an elaborate planning document framed to advance the Nation's long-term vision for achieving energy independence and sustainability.

This vision emphasizes implementing renewable energy solutions, improving power system reliability, and transitioning toward environmentally responsible practices that safeguard the Nation's homelands. The Energy Sovereignty Plan will provide a strategic framework that supports these goals while fostering socio-economic empowerment for Tribal citizens.

The project has been spearheaded by Castellaw, who initiated this project in February of 2026.

The process started with procuring and contracting with Amy Wilson of SEE Renewal, a multidisciplinary consulting firm specializing in tribal and federal government, economic development, energy development and resource management, to support the development of the Nation's Energy Sovereignty Plan.

Together with Wilson, Castellaw formed an Energy Planning Team to meet regularly to establish a structured approach for creating the Nation's Energy Sovereignty Plan. Community Development

Director Tim Hoone and TERO Officer Brian Millett round out the Energy Planning team to help develop the Energy Sovereignty Plan from both a planning and workforce development perspective. The team has been working closely with the Division of Energy and Mineral Development (DEMD), a division of the U.S. Department of the Interior Indian Affairs that helps Tribal communities achieve economic self-sufficiency by creating sustainable economies through the environmentallysound development of their energy and mineral resources.

The Energy Sovereignty and Transformative Community Planning Week kicked off with a tour of the Nation's facilities

with Facilities Manager Billy Fender. The tour provided the DEMD team with firsthand insight into the infrastructure discussed throughout the planning process, allowing them to better understand the Nation's existing energy systems, facility operations, and future energy needs.

During the tour, participants visited key Tribal facilities to observe existing energy infrastructure, including backup generators and installed solar energy systems. The tour also provided an opportunity to discuss current energy production, facility energy demands, infrastructure limitations, and areas where future investments could

DEMD representatives learn local culture during their visit with staff Jadelin Castellaw and Suntayea Steinruck at Fish Camp.

improve reliability and resilience. Seeing these systems in person gave the DEMD team valuable context that complemented the discussions held throughout the week.

The Energy Planning Team, in partnership with DEMD, met with Tribal leadership and department staff for individual interviews, small group discussions, and collaborative planning sessions. These meetings provided an opportunity for leadership to identify the unique energy needs, priorities, and challenges facing their respective programs while also sharing their longterm vision for the Nation's energy future.

As many members of Tribal leadership are also Tribal Citizens, they contributed not only their professional expertise, but also their personal perspectives on the importance of protecting the Nation's natural and cultural resources while planning for its energy future, potential renewable energy projects, workforce development opportunities, and ways energy initiatives could support broader Tribal goals.

Hearing directly from both Tolowa Dee-ni' Nation staff, as well as representatives from United Indian Health Services (UIHS) and Del Norte & Tribal Land Community Food Council, helped the planning team better understand existing challenges, opportunities, and areas where future energy investments could provide the greatest benefit. The conversations also highlighted the interconnected nature of energy planning and reinforced the importance of developing a plan that supports not only

majority of activities to gather input on the center, as well as discuss best energy resiliency needs and practices in the event of an emergency.

Several workshop sessions focused explicitly on workforce development opportunities that could potentially come from any of the developing energy projects.

reliable energy systems, but also the Nation's cultural values, economic development goals, and community resilience.

One focus area of the week was a proposed Climate Resiliency Center, a project led by the Community Development Department.

"The Community Resiliency Center is a project envisioned for many years; a large Community Center, to be sited

on open land right next to the Tribal Headquarters in Smith River, which would double as an evacuation center where citizens can take refuge in an emergency including wildfires, storms, and earthquakes," said Tim Hoone, Community Development Director.

Both planning staff and Climate Resiliency Center project consultants, Cascadia Consulting, were on hand at the

"This week has been fantastic, and we are beginning to build solid framework for the potential solar, and other renewable energy initiatives and projects," said TERO Officer Brian Millett, "We've been able to have actual dedicated time to sit and flesh out these ideas with DEMD and planning staff to talk about the feasibility of these projects, as well as projected timelines. This helps us in workforce development immensely to take a realistic approach to creating a complementary workforce programming schedule; one that would identify any necessary training and certifications that would allow Tribal Citizens to take advantage of any and all level of employment opportunities that arise from developing projects."

To ensure Tribal Citizens had opportunities to learn about and contribute to the planning process, an open house was held at the Tolowa Dee-ni' Nation Justice Center Tribal Courtroom. The event introduced the purpose of the Energy Sovereignty Plan, provided educational information about energy sovereignty, and invited community members to share their initial thoughts, concerns, and priorities for the Nation's energy future.

DEMD representative Kevin Carey, middle, talks with Planning staff Marshall Berry and Workforce staff Suntayea Steinruck.
Education Director Sheryl Steinruck shares insights during a discussion about the Energy Sovereignty Plan with the Energy Planning team.

Congratulations Graduate!

Louis Baca, son of Jessica Salmans and Angel Buckman Baca, graduated this summer from Visions in Education online school and plans to attend a HVAC vocational school to earn a skillful trade.

Louis was born in Stockton, Calif., and his Tolowa ancestors include grandmother Stella Salmans (Moorehead) and great grandpa Frank Moorehead.

He enjoys participating in the sport of boxing and decided to complete his high school graduate via online school to catch up on credits and graduate on time. His advice to others: "Never give up! Opportunities await if you seek them out."

Louis Baca

Constance Payne Wilson (1948-2026)

In loving memory of Constance Lorraine Payne

Wilson May 24, 1948 – June 19, 2026, Brookings, Oregon

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Connie Wilson, who left us peacefully on June 19, 2026, at the age

of 78. Born on May 24, 1948, Connie Wilson is a tribal elder of the Tolowa Dee-ni' Nation.

For many years, Connie applied her sharp mind and meticulous nature to her career in accounting, a profession that mirrored her innate ability to bring order and balance to the world around her. Beyond her professional achievements, Connie found immense joy in the quiet challenge of puzzles and the jovial energy of family gatherings. Her happiest moments were spent gathered around the table in spirited card games with her family. Her sharp wit and enduring dedication to the family she loved so fiercely will be dearly missed.

Constance Wilson is survived by her loving siblings Donald Leslie Payne Jr., of North Carolina, Janece Marie Payne, Brookings, Ben E.

Payne, Brookings, Wallace Ward Payne, Tennessee; and son Donald Howard Wilson, grandchildren Shelby, Logan, and Brayden Wilson; and greatgrandchildren, Deegan and Weston Sendit all of Coos Bay Area.

Constance will be reunited

in heaven with her loving parents, Donald Leslie Payne and Gertrude Frances Essley Payne, beloved sister, Allie Kathryn Payne Tribur, and her dear brother, Ronald Richard Payne.

Her memory will live on in our hearts forever.

Hatchery-themed float wins July 4 parade honor

The Nation received "Best Tribal Float" honors at the annual Crescent City Fourth of July parade!

Staff from the Tribal Employment Rights Office, Public Works and Facilities, the Administration Services Department, and our Summer Youth Employment interns worked together to create a Rowdy Creek Fish Hatcherythemed float for the annual Fourth of July Parade.

Pulled by the Natural Resources Department's truck, the Nation's Maine Boat was decorated in a patriotic theme featuring stars and the colors red, white, and blue.

The Summer Youth Employment Program interns created colorful fish mounted on sticks, which were displayed throughout the float. They also designed posters with the message "Through the decades, we're still here."

We were especially impressed by the creativity, effort, and pride the interns demonstrated while

creating the posters and fish decorations. Their enthusiasm and dedication helped make the float a meaningful representation of the Nation.

This year's parade appeared to attract a record number of spectators, with noticeably larger crowds along the parade route than in previous years. During the event, we distributed bags featuring the Tolowa Dee-ni' Nation seal and the Rowdy Creek Fish Hatchery logo, along with candy, Lucky 7 Casino playing cards, and notepads.

We were also proud that Tribal Councilman Jaytuk Steinruck served as one of the parade judges, representing both the Tolowa Dee-ni' Nation and Lucky 7 Casino.

Participating in the annual Fourth of July Parade continues to be one of our favorite traditions. It provides a wonderful opportunity to celebrate our community, share our pride, and showcase the work and spirit of the Tolowa Dee-ni' Nation.

Opportunities for citizens to serve Nation

The Nation is seeking Tribal Citizens to volunteer for a variety of committees, boards and commissions.

We currently have openings for the following groups:

• Election Board

• Enrollment Committee

• Housing Committee

• Culture Committee

• Dee-ni' Wee-ya' Committee

• ICWA Board

• Education Committee

Tribal Citizens, regardless of geographic location, are invited to apply to serve on any of these positions. Applications can be found online at tolowa.gov and at the Nation's Headquarters at 12801 Mouth of Smith River, in Smith River.

Send applications to Tribal Council Secretary Shelly Reynolds at recording.

Tolowa Divers earn rescue certification

The Taa-la-wa Dee-ni’ K’wetxii-ne (Tolowa Divers) now have four Rescue Divers.

Race Richards, Mason Lehr, Rosa Laucci, and Jody Smith completed Rescue Diver certification, an accomplishment that is physically and mentally challenging but an absolute necessity for scientific diving.

This certification is part of the Nation's Natural Resources Department's Ghvtlh-k’vsh shu’-srnelh-‘i~ (Kelp Guardians) project funded by California Sea Grant and California Ocean Protection Council.

The Nation is proud of everyone and offers a huge Shu'-shaa nin-la (thank you) to Reef Check Foundation instructors: Maddy Frost,

and Ian Norton.

Cleaning up the beach after the Fourth

The Nation's annual post Fourth of July beach cleanup at Dat-naa-svt was a big success, with the Natural Resources Department staff and others collecting 560 pounds of fireworks and garbage.

As people go to the beach to set off fireworks every year for the Fourth they inevitably leave all kinds of rubbish behind, so the Nation has decided to clean our beach and steward our marine environment.

Staff, along with Tribal Rights Employment Office’s Summer Youth and Youth Corps programs and the Netlh-‘ii~-ne Stewards, collected fireworks and garbage on the beach below the Howonquet Hall Community Center.

The Nation's Marine Division Manager Rosa Laucci and others scour Dat-naa-svt after the Fourth of July, collecting and disposing of fireworks remnants and trash.

Ciera Green, Morgan MurphyCannella,

Nation attends ribbon cutting for new border monument

Tolowa Dee-ni Nation Executive Director Troy Ralstin joined local and state officials for an official ribbon cutting ceremony in July for California's new monument welcome sign at the border with Oregon on U.S. 101.

Participants, including Del Norte County Board of Supervisors Valerie Starkey and Chris Howard, joined staff with CALTRANS staff and designers of the monument, for a quick ceremony in the rain at the California-Oregon border. Several participants went on to do a second ribbon cutting at the new monument erected at the Oregon/ California border on U.S. 199. Within the last six months,

Caltrans replaced the outdated entryway sign on U.S. 101 with a new custom monument, following the successful installation of a sister sign on Highway 199. The new sign project, managed by Caltrans' District 1 under the Clean California initiative, includes a decorative monument and safer motorist pullouts.

Caltrans said the project gives one of California’s northern gateways a stronger first impression and helps create a more welcoming public space for travelers entering the state. The design incorporated ideas and suggested made by the public via a survey.

The Nation's Executive Director Troy Ralstin, back right, joins local and state officials in celebrating California's new monument sign on Highway 101 at the Oregon border.

Motions for May 14, 2026

COUNCIL MOTIONS

WEE-NAA-TR'AA-'AA-DVN NUYNII~-'A~ (APPROVE AGENDA):

M/S/C (Thompson/Wait) 4-0-1 Motion to approve agenda with the addition of Agenda Item 2026-292 Contract CT-2560-1610 with Richard Armstrong; and addition of Agenda Item 2026-291 Executive Director

Quarterly Report.

'Ay~: Sullivan, Thompson, Steinruck, Wait; Duu: 0; Xwee-la: Boardman

WAA-'AA-DVN NUY-NII~-'A~ (CONSENT AGENDA):

M/S/C (Sullivan/Wait) 4-0-1 Motion to adopt the consent agenda including: Donation requests; Policy - Homebuyers Policy Revision; Joyful Heart Foundation Heal the Healers Grant; DNC Fairgrounds Rental Agreement (approved by

poll vote due to timing); AB2356 CalMatters Op-Ed; GMM minutes; Fire Apparatus Operator, Senior Firefighter, Firefighter; L7C Policies &Procedures.

'Ay~: Sullivan, Thompson, Steinruck, Wait; Duu: 0; Xwee-la: Boardman

LHEE-WII-DVN (JUSTICE):

M/S/C (Sullivan/Wait) 4-0-1 Motion to approve the request to apply for and submit the Calfire Business & Workforce Development 2026 Q1 Grant opportunity.

'Ay~: Sullivan, Thompson, Steinruck, Wait; Duu: 0; Xwee-la: Boardman

MII~-XVSH-XAY CH'EE-NVK (ADMINISTRATION):

M/S/C (Steinruck/Wait) 4-0-1 Motion to approve modification #1 to Contract CT-2560-1610 with Armstrong Law Office with an extension of time to December 31, 2026, and an additional $40k.

'Ay~: Sullivan, Thompson, Steinruck, Wait; Duu: 0; Xwee-la: Boardman

Motions for May 28, 2026

WEE-NAA-TR'AA-'AA-DVN NUYNII~-'A~ (APPROVE AGENDA):

M/S/C (O'Connell/Sullivan) 5-0-1 Motion to approve agenda with changes. Move VII. and VIII. to before VI. Election Report and removing item b. XI. from the agenda.

'Ay~: Sullivan, Thompson, Steinruck, O'Connell, Wait; Duu: 0; Xwee-la: Boardman

WAA-'AA-DVN NUY-NII~-'A~ (CONSENT AGENDA):

M/S/C (Sullivan/Wait) 6-0-1 Motion to adopt the consent agenda including: Regular Meeting minutes for March 23, 2026.

'Ay~: Sullivan, Thompson, Steinruck, Giovannetti, O'Connell, Wait; Duu: 0; Xwee-la: Boardman

NUU-DA'-YE'-DVN (COMMUNITY AND FAMILY WELLNESS):

M/S/C (O'Connell/Wait) 6-0-1 Motion to approve request for a budget modification for the FY2023 Tribal Victim Services Set-Aside grant.

'Ay~: Sullivan, Thompson, Steinruck, Giovannetti, O'Connell, Wait; Duu: 0; Xwee-la: Boardman

XAA-'VTLH-SRII-DVN (COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT & PLANNING):

M/S/C (Sullivan/Thompson) 6-0-1

Motion to approve and sign letter to Indian Health Services requesting 50% cost share on equipment and materials for the Tolowa Dee-ni' Nation treatment plant.

'Ay~: Sullivan, Thompson, Steinruck, Giovannetti, O'Connell, Wait; Duu: 0; Xwee-la: Boardman

LHEE-WII-DVN (JUSTICE):

M/S/C (Giovannetti/Wait) 6-0-1 Motion to approve and sign Contract CT-2680-1509 with General Code in an amount not to exceed $18,245.

'Ay~: Sullivan, Thompson, Steinruck, Giovannetti, O'Connell, Wait; Duu: 0; Xwee-la: Boardman

MII~-XVSH-XAY CH'EE-NVK (ADMINISTRATION):

M/S/C (Steinruck/Sullivan) 6-0-1

Motion to approve Resolution 202616 Tribal Officials Authorized to Conduct Business with the Bureau of Trust Funds Administration (BTFA) and Request Bureau of Trust Funds Administration to Draw Down Tribal Trust Funds.

'Ay~: Sullivan, Thompson, Steinruck, Giovannetti, O'Connell, Wait; Duu: 0; Xwee-la: Boardman

Jennifer Adolph

Damian Allen

Tamra Alvord

Justin Arlandson

Jalea Aubrey

Robert Aubrey

Mary Ault

Melinda Baines

Callysta Balcom

Gerald Balcom Jr.

Kira Balcom

Ashlynn Barbee

Christopher Barr

Travis Bartley

Kaylee Bartow

Sawyer Bartow

Leo Bartow

Wren Baty

Avondre Bell

Brandon Bentley

Haley Blaise

Ernest Boardman

MAA~-XUSLH-GHALH

San-T'As Bommelyn

Tayshu Bommelyn

Alea Bravo

Drea Bravo Garcia

Dawn Brown

Eric Brundin

Isabel Brundin

Kara Brundin-Miller

Zane Brunner

Monacco Bruschi

Madison Buchanan

Cali Burton

Ian Burton

Noah Calvery

Angelo Campos-Bartow

Rae-Lynn Canaday

Debi Cardozo

Christina Carlile

Lannan Carns

Aden Carpenter

Jody Carr

Trevor Carter

Jadelin Castellaw

Clint Chapman

Michael Chisman

Amara Clayton

Jimmie Coenen

Madison Coenen

Zoey Cornelis

Raymond Criteser

William Dillard Jr.

Katie Domas

Tiffany Early

Adelia Engelking

Dustin Evanow

Jazlynn Everts

Adelaide Ficcadenti

Landon Finigan

Kevin Fisher

Danyel Foster

Liberty Fouts

Mckenzie Fulton

Angel Garcia

Rip Gardner

Asher Giovannetti

Taviuz Gleaton

Trezdon Gleaton

Amanda Gochanour

Leslie Gravatt

Kayla Haney

Rhonda Harris

Kaleigh Haynes

Maggie Haynes

William Hempel

Cherish Hernandez

Gerine Hinshaw

Melinda Hinshaw

Douglas Hodges

Wyatt Hooper

Deanna Howard

Lukeus Hurd

Wynona Idica

Zane Irvine

Rowan Israel

Jet James

Kara James

Ellie Janeiro

Asher Jeli

Melissia Johnson

Sally Jones

Malia Kahoalii

Marcus Kendrix Jr.

Summer Kessler

Devin Kirby

Nicholas Kirby

Vivian Kirby

Addison La Fazio

Mitchel Larson

Ryland Leavelle

Makinsey Lemley

Kevin Lemmon Jr.

Savannah Lewis

Victoria Lewis

Daniel Livingston

Declan Lopez

Dewayne Lopez

Jennavecia Lopez

Logan Lopez

Mariana Lopez

Sey-Gup Lopez

Siobhan Lopez

S-We-Le Lopez

Lacey Lopez-Martinez

Henry Luerra III

Christine Marini

Joell Marini

Lucas Martinez

Ruben Martinez

Hayden Mattingly

Kyle McCann

Waylon McCann

Brandy McNamer

Adilene Meza

Lanelle Moorehead

Robert Moorehead

Caleb Narvaez

Jacob Narvaez

Justin Netzel

Wyatt Netzel

Ashley Newton

Jill Norwood

Whitney Olds

John Olds

Layton Owen

Paisley Owen

Wade Owen

Donald Payne Jr.

Rachel Payne-Smith

Dean Perry

Jack Petrie

Jimmy Phillips Jr.

Kelly Phillips

Robert Phillips

James Pittman

Jason Pittman

Jazmine Pittman

Jesse Pittman

Mary Pittman

Channing Porter

Joshua Porter

Shelly Pulsifer

Tee-Me' Reed

Kimberly Ricetti

Allen Richards

James Richards

Jesse Richards Jr.

Jon Richards

Randall Richards

Stormi Richards

Benjamin Richards

Marissa Rogers

Scarlet Rose

Golden Rule

Sierra Rule

Cassandra Russell

Alexis Rutter

Preslyn Sampels

Samantha Sampels

Nichelle Schrag

Issabelle Schriver

Dale Sesher

Michael Sesher

Rebecca Sesher-Lee

Laurie Simunich

Maxwell Smith

Vincent Smith

Ivy Sopiwnik

Delanie Starkey

Marek Stifel

Adrienne Stone

Freyja Teurn

Gavin Thomas

Deja Travis

Deziree Walker

Zane Walker

Kaden Ward

Bodhi Weideman

Derek Wells

Taylor Wescovich

Darcy Wetzel

Cali Wieland

Nichole Wilburn

Ivory Willburn

Jazmin Wiseman

Welcome new Tolowa Dee-ni' Nation new staff

Christopher Krueger Fire Captain Public Safety

Keahna Long-Wyatt Tribal Court Clerk II Justice/Tribal Court

Amy Vossler Victim Services Program Specialist CFW

Tribal Job Opportunities

Tribal Office

• Homelessness Intervention Coordinator (CFW)- FT

• Housing Disabilities Advocacy Program (HDAP) Technician I (CFW)- Full Time

• Shelter Stability Advocate I (CFW)- FT

• TANF Prevention Technician (CFW)- FT

• Tribal TANF Child Welfare (TTCW) Coordinator (CFW)- Full Time

• Victim Services Project Coordinator (CFW)- FT

• Social Worker I or II (CFW)- FT

Pamela Rusk Home Visiting Program Coordinator CFW

• Classroom Aide (Education) - FT

• Classroom Aide (Education) - On-Call

• Cook (Education) - FT

• Head Start Family Liaison- FT

• Head Start Teacher (Education) - FT

• Head Start Teacher Assistant - FT

• Battalion Chief (Public Safety) - On-Call

• Division Chief (Public Safety) - On-Call

• Fire Apparatus Operator (Public Safety)- FT

• Firefighter (Public Safety)- FT

• Senior Firefighter (Public Safety) - FT

Lucky 7 Casino

• Font Desk Clerk- PT

• Hotel Houseperson- PT

• IT Systems Administrator- FT

• Slot Attendant- PT

• Server- PT

• Operations Compliance Manager- FT

• Bartender- PT

Submit a completed application with your resume to the Human Resources Department. Job descriptions and applications are available at www.tolowa.gov/ jobs. Contact Human Resources at 707-487-9255.

ELDER NUTRITION MENU & COMMITTEE MEETINGS

Doors to nutrition site open at 11:30 a.m.

Reserve lunch by 10 a.m. 707-825-3467, option #3

SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY

Suggested donations: Elders 55-plus $2 (depending on income) Under 55 $7

Menu subject to change without notice

Deadline for August newsletter Email submissions to scott.graves@tolowa.gov Education

Magic show with Chazz the Magician Tolowa Event Center (See back page for more information)

Tolowa Dee-ni' Nation

12801 Mouth of Smith River Rd.

Smith River, CA 95567

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August 2026 newsletter by tolowadeeni - Issuu