DEE-NI' NUU-WEE-YA'
NEE-SAN-NAA-XEE-CH'AA-TA NUM-NII~-MA~S (DECEMBER) 2025 - Volume 32, Issue 12
Bringing good fire back to the land
It was an early October afternoon at "See-tr'-ee-ghindvm-dvn" in the Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park and conditions were perfect for starting a fire.
Dozens of Tolowa Dee-ni' Nation Citizens, joined by representatives of various state and national park agencies, watched as bright orange flames ignited the brush under the oak trees. Billowing clouds of gray white smoke ascended skyward. Members of the Nation's fire crew stood back to observe their handiwork. It marked the return of cultural burning to the landscape since Tolowa Dee-ni' people were forcibly removed from the area in the 1850s.
See Good Fire, Page 12
Tribal elder and Culture Committee
Member Norene Darnell ignites dry fuels using traditional methods.
Draft Tribal Flag Code up for review
Please take notice that the Tribal Council of the Tolowa Dee-ni' Nation has approved a draft Tribal Flag Code to be considered for enactment by the Tribal Council at its regularly scheduled Tribal Council meeting on Thursday, January 8, 2026.
Copies of the draft code are available for viewing at the Tribal Headquarters or online via our Citizens Portal at Tolowa.gov.
The Tribal Council is soliciting comments from the Tribal Citizens on the proposed amendments and will consider all comments when it takes final action on the enactment of the amendments. Tribal Citizens have 30 days from the date of this publication to submit comments either by public comment at a Regular Council Session or via written comment. Written comments should be submitted to the Recording Secretary by hard or electronic copy at 12801 Mouth of Smith River Road, Smith River, CA 95567 or via email at recording.secretary@ tolowa.gov.
Comments must be in writing and be signed by the individual submitting the comments. All written or electronic comments shall include the individual’s tribal identification number. Comments will be accepted until Monday, December 15, 2026.
TITLE 2 CHAPTER 6
CHAPTER 6 - TRIBAL FLAG CODE
ARTICLE I: PURPOSE AND FLAG DETAILS
1. PURPOSE:
The purpose of this Chapter is to describe the handling of the Tolowa Dee-ni' Nation Flag (Flag). The Tolowa Dee-ni' Nation (Nation) flag features the Tribal Seal that represents the sovereignty of our people. This code ensures the respectful display, handling, and retirement of the flag.
A flag code is important because it ensures that our Tolowa Dee-ni' Nation flag—a powerful symbol of sovereignty has a proper set of protocols, ensuring it remains a respected and honored symbol for generations to come.
2. FLAG DETAILS:
The Tolowa Dee-ni' Nation flag is a visual representation of our Nation's identity. The flag features a bold red border, and running horizontally across the center is a traditional friendship basket design pattern. At the heart of the flag is the official Great Seal of the Tolowa Dee-ni' Nation, which was approved in 1998. The Tribal Flag was later approved via a tribal resolution in 2023. The artwork within the tribal seal holds deep cultural significance. Prominently displayed is the sun setting behind Setlh-xa~ and Maa-ghvs-k'wvt-saa~-ghvt-dalh, two sea stacks
rooted in our lands and ocean. In the center is a dance knife, a man's ceremonial item used during ceremonies. Also within the seal are images of traditional foods — acorns and salmon — essential to our diet and lifeways. Alongside these are intricately woven baskets, symbolizing the artistry, knowledge, and teachings passed down through generations. Each element of the flag comes together to reflect the strength and history of Tolowa Dee-ni' people. The Tribal Flag and Seal are copyrighted and trademarks of Tolowa Dee-ni' Nation.
ARTICLE II: PROPER DISPLAY AND USE
1. The flag should be displayed at locations and events chosen by our Tribal Council, representing the official Tribal Government.
2. The Tolowa Dee-ni' Nation flag should always be treated with respect.
3. When the flag is raised or lowered, guests should stand respectfully in silence.
4. In times of inclement weather, the flag should not be flown to prevent excessive wear.
5. If the Tolowa Dee-ni' Nation flag is flown at night, it must be illuminated so it remains visible and honored in the darkness.
6. If proper lighting is unavailable, the flag should be taken down at the close of business or before sunset.
7. When not in use, the flag should be neatly folded and
stored in a clean, dry place that won't cause damage.
8. The flag should never be displayed upside down.
ARTICLE III: RETIREMENT OF THE FLAG
When a flag becomes too weathered, sun-bleached, or damaged for display, it should be retired. Flags no longer fit to be displayed shall be respectfully disposed of.
ARTICLE IV: HALF-STAFF PROTOCOL
The Tolowa Dee-ni' Nation flag may be flown at half-staff by order of the Nation’s governing body in times of mourning for leaders, citizens, or significant events or holidays that the Tribal Council deems appropriate. Half-staff means the position of the flag when it is one-half (1/2) the distance between the top and bottom of the staff.
ARTICLE V: PROHIBITED USES
To maintain respect for the flag, we have guidelines listed in the Nation's Brand Book and Media Policy concerning the printing of our Tribal Flags.
• No altering the flag (writing, symbols, defacing, vandalizing) Modifications to the official Tolowa Dee-ni' Nation flag will require Tribal Council approval.
• No other entity or individual may print or order the Tolowa Dee-ni' Nation Flag without permission.
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
Human Resources Director, Jeff Davis (707)487-9255, ext. 1213, jeff.davis@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’
Nee-san-naa-xee-ch'aa-ta Num-nii~-ma~s (December) 2025 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.
Setlh-xa~, Tolowa word meaning "Dressed up rock," off the coast of Dat-naa-svt. Photo by Kyle Hinshaw
Public input sought for Resilience Center project
The Nation invites the entire community to a Community Design Workshop for a proposed Resilience Center Project in Smith River. The workshop is scheduled Saturday, Dec. 6, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Tolowa Event Center at Lucky 7 Casino. Lunch will be provided.
The Nation received $495,525 in grant funding through the California Strategic Growth Council (SGC) Community Resilience Center (CRC) grant program. The grant will fund the planning phase for a neighborhood-level resilience center that will provide shelter and resources during
climate and other emergencies. The CRC is also meant to provide services and ongoing programming that build overall community resilience.
During the two-year planning phase, which concludes on Dec. 25, 2026, there will be up to six public updates given at regular Tribal Council meetings; and two community design charrettes where the community can give input on the design of the planned facility.
At the Dec. 6 workshop, community members will have the opportunity to give their input on the design of the CRC and
meet with Nation planning staff, community stakeholders, and the architect firm staff working on the project.
The Nation anticipates designing a 40,000-square-foot facility, which will likely be built out in phases over many years. Some features may include a gymnasium, cafeteria, clean air refuge, emergency backup power, emergency supply distribution areas, and training facilities.
Please note: The illustration below is NOT a final design. It is a preliminary visual that will see changes made throughout the planning process.
Nation launches multi-use project to make road safer
The Tolowa Dee-ni' Nation has started the first steps for the planning and design phase of the Ocean View Drive Multi-Use Path Project, a long-needed improvement to make this busy road safer for everyone.
"Ocean View Drive has been difficult and dangerous to walk or bike on for many years, and this project aims to change that," said Julian Markussen, a planner for the Nation's Community Development Department. "This project is an important investment in building a safer, healthier, and more walkable future for Tolowa Country."
The first phase will focus on improving the narrow, curvy section of Ocean View Drive between the Tribal headquarters
and Lucky 7 Casino. This phase is funded by the Rural Tribal Assistance grant program.
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
"Right now, the project team is working on the environmental report and topographic surveys, which help us understand the land, road conditions and any areas that need special care," said Markussen. "Our planning team is excited to bring these improvements forward and create a path that will benefit families, youth, elders, and visitors for years to come."
Lucky 7 Casino Tribal Office
This digitally-enhanced photo shows what the multi-use path might look like on the section of Ocean View Drive between Lucky 7 Casino and the Tribal headquarters.
Current photo of Ocean View Drive between the Lucky 7 Casino and the Tribal headquarters in Smith River.
The Tolowa Dee-ni' Nation Tribal Council has approved eight candidates for the January 17, 2026, Petitioner's Election: Julie Davis, Daniel Fry, Michelle Malloroy, Denise McKenzie, Janie Mooney, Kelsy Padgette, Preslynn Shaw and Annette Taylor. Tribal Citizens must be registered to vote in order to receive and cast a ballot for the election.
The ballots were mailed on Nov. 3, 2025. If you are a registered voter and have not received your ballot, please contact Election Register Angel Escobar at 707-4879255, ext. 1181 or email angel.escobar@tolowa.gov. If you wish to register to vote, you may do so by contacting Angel Escobar. Voter registration closes at 5 p.m. on Friday, January 2, 2026.
After you have filled out the ballot, mail it back to the Nation using the preaddressed envelope that came with the ballot, or drop it off at the Nation's headquarters at 12801 Mouth of Smith River Road, Smith River.
You can also drop your ballot off the day of the election or vote in person at Dee-ni' 'Ee-ta Lhee-wiidvn (Tribal Regional Justice Center) located next to the Tribal headquarters.
Ghostbusters: Collecting derelict crab pots
Derelict crab traps, often referred to as "ghost traps," found on beaches and offshore waters along Tolowa Dee-ni' lands can pose a threat to coastal and marine environments. It's a threat that the Nation's Natural Resources Department's Marine Division aims to reduce using a $140,448 grant.
"Restoring marine and intertidal habitats is critical to protecting native species, and our staff we'll use manual extraction to identify and remove traps," said Tribal Resource Specialist Brittney Ford. "We suspect there are hundreds or thousands of them out there."
The division's efforts will focus on nearshore areas where commercial crab fishing regularly occurs, such as Pyramid Point State Marine Conservation Area, Pelican Beach and Dat-naasvt, as well as Crescent City Harbor and South Beach. Using the division's marine boat and side sonar equipment, and leads from commercial fishermen, Ford hopes to find derelict traps with or without buoys and use grappling hooks to retrieve them. She may also seek help from commercial fisherman, who often have the equipment to retrieve abandoned traps.
The recovered material will be properly disposed of, recycled or possibly repurposed. Traps that have some components intact, but are not able to be reused for crabbing, will be disassembled and repurposed based on the usable component. For example, wire mesh will be used to create garden trellises and utilized at Tolowa Dee-ni' Nation’s nursery and food forest, and frames will be used to craft household decor for educational and outreach purposes. Rubber components that are often found wrapped around traps will be used in the crafting of
traditional dip nets, as this has been accomplished in the past.
Intact, usable traps will be given to Nation's Food Sovereignty Program to use and give out to Tribal Citizens, Ford said.
"The goal of the project is to mitigate the impacts of crab traps and trap components on native habitat and wildlife that have been essential to Tolowa livelihood since time immemorial," she said.
Not only do derelict pots trap and kill crab that would otherwise be available to the local crab fishery, but they could also entangle whales and pinnipeds. And as traps move into the surf zone and up the beach, they could potential disrupt lhvmsr (smelt) spawning beds.
Graphic courtesy of Virginia Institute of Marine Science.
In effort to reduce the damage, William & Mary’s Batten School of Coastal & Marine Sciences and Virginia Institute of Marine Science has awarded $1.8 million to 13 organizations throughout the U.S. focused on the removal of derelict fishing gear. Recipients anticipate the removal of over 8,000 ghost traps and the creation of 195 jobs, mostly for commercial fishers.
A 2016 report found that removing just 10 percent of derelict crab pots and lobster traps could result in an additional $831 million in global landings annually.
As a grant recipient, the Nation's Marine Division will begin cleanup efforts in the spring or early summer of 2026 and will be required to submit standardized data on their progress. The data will be analyzed by the Policy Innovation Lab, to explore drivers of derelict trap abundance, bycatch, and other ecological or economic variables.
Photos courtesy of Virginia Institute of Marine Science.
A muddy crab is found in a derelict crab trap that was recovered off the coast of Virginia.
The cycle continues: Lhuk return to Tvm-chaa-dvn
As the rainy season arrives in Smith River, another extraordinary chapter begins at the Rowdy Creek Fish Hatchery: the return of Chinook Salmon. After spending years in the Pacific Ocean, these remarkable fish are making their heroic journey back to their birthplace to spawn. This annual migration is a vital event for the health of our local ecosystem and a testament to the dedication of the Nation's Fisheries Division, Rowdy Creek Fish Hatchery staff, and volunteers.
An epic journey
Known as "king salmon" for their impressive size, adult Chinook spend between one and six years in the ocean, where they grow to maturity. During this time, they accumulate the energy reserves needed for their final, strenuous upstream migration. When they are ready to spawn, they navigate from the ocean and travel to the freshwater streams where they were born.
In the past, broodstock (adult fish) used for spawning, were collected at the hatchery trap. However,
the Fisheries Division has been permitted to seine broodstock out of the mainstem of the Smith River since 2022. Three seining events occurred in October resulting in the collection of all broodstock needed for hatchery production.
The spawning process
Once the fish have been transported to the hatchery, the females and males are held in separate ponds as staff waits for females to ripen. A ripe female is considered ready to spawn and the eggs are released freely when pressure is applied to the abdomen. When a female is ripe it is dispatched with a quick blow to the head, the belly is cut open, and the eggs are Continued Page 11
Robert Ford, Tribal Resources Specialist with the Nation's Environmental Division, with a Chinook Salmon taken from the Smith River for spawing purposes.
Eggs from a female salmon are prepared for fertilization.
collected in a tub. A male is then anesthetized by adding carbon dioxide to the water. The milt (sperm) is then added to the eggs by gently squeezing the abdomen of the male. The males are returned to the creek to potentially spawn with other females. The female carcasses are returned to the creek to provide marine derived nutrients, a crucial food source to the ecosystem, nurturing the next generation and other wildlife. After spawning in nature, both the male and female salmon complete their life cycle. The fertilized eggs are incubated until alevins, a newly spawned salmon still carrying the yolk, hatch out and remain in the protective incubator trays for weeks. The alevins live off their yolk sac until they become fry and start to move through the water column and feed on their own. At this time the salmon fry are moved to ponds where they are grown out until they are ready to be released. This process gives them a head start before being released into the river as juveniles to begin their journey.
--Submitted
by Jennifer Jacobs, Fisheries Division Manager for the Natural Resources Department.
Good Fire
"It was nice seeing good fire on the ground again and seeing all the agencies come together and our fuel teams at work," said Tolowa Tribal Councilman Jaytuk Steinruck. "This is just the beginning and I'm looking forward to doing more like this."
Prior to igniting the burn, Tribal Culture Bearer Loren Me'-lash-ne Bommelyn opened with a prayer and shared Tolowa history about the site. This was followed by comments from Tolowa elders, citizens, Tribal Council members and staff.
The Nation, with support from the North Coast Redwoods District of California State Parks, CalFire, UC Cooperative Extension, North Coast Resource Partnership, the Bureau of Indian Affairs, and the US Forest Service, successfully burned approximately 10 acres within Seetr'ee-ghin-dvm-dvn. It's an area of ecocultural significance and is home to Oregon white oak trees, tanoaks, redwood, hazel, and other plant species, all of which are utilized in traditional practices and ceremony of the Tolowa Dee-ni'.
North Coast Redwoods District staff and Nation consultants
developed a comprehensive burn plan to include multiple cultural objectives. Parks staff and CalFire provided administrative oversight, safety, and logistical support, while Tolowa citizens and staff facilitated the cultural burn.
Since time immemorial, Tolowa Dee-ni' and many other Indigenous peoples have used fire as a tool to steward landscapes such as oak woodlands, prairies, and coastal forests. Deliberate and controlled burning during the appropriate season enhances natural processes by promoting the establishment of desired plant communities and the cultivation of resources for basket weaving, medicine, and traditional foods. The use of fire also maintains open foraging spaces for wildlife and reduces environmental risks, such as catastrophic wildfires and pest infestations.
The criminalization of traditional fire practices during colonization was part of the state-sanctioned effort to eradicate Indigenous people and forcibly remove them from their ancestral homelands. Today, the recognition and application of cultural burning can begin to repair and rebalance what has been lost.
Tribal Resources Field Crew, from left: Armando Lopez, Ashley Newton, Walker Gensaw, Willie Gensaw, Roberto Aguilar, Samuel Goodlin (kneeling). Not pictured: Kirstie Wright.
Tribal Resource Field Technician Willie Gensaw ignites dry fuels in the heart of a white oak grove at See-tr'ee-ghin-dvm-dvn, which is also home to tanoaks, redwood, and hazel trees.
Tribal Resource Field Technician torch to ignite dry fuels. Since time ple have used fire to steward the
Samuel Goodin uses a propane time immemorial, Indigenous peolandscape for cultural purposes.
Me'-lash-ne' Bommelyn opens with prayer and history of the landscape. Also pictured: California State Parks burn boss Henri Holbrook (left) and culture bearer Suntayea Steinruck (right).
Prior to the burn, Tribal Council members, Nation staff and culture bearers speak about the significance of returning to traditional Tolowa Dee-ni' fire practices.
Former Tolowa Dee-ni' Nation Tribal Council Chairman and culture bearer Loren Me'-lash-ne' Bommelyn surveys the burn in progress.
Nation's TERO Commission attends national event
The Tolowa Dee-ni' Nation's TERO (Tribal Employment Rights Ordinance) Commission, along with TERO staff, traveled to Oklahoma earlier this year to attend the 2025 National TERO Convention.
The TERO Commission serves as the appropriate authority and power to implement the federally recognized policy of Tribal and Indian Preference in employment and contracting, and in subcontracting.
The Commission is composed of five Tolowa Dee-ni' Nation Tribal Citizens: TERO Commission Chair and Council Representative Dorothy Wait, TERO Commission ViceChair Paula Aubrey, and Commissioners William Fender, Troy Padgette, and Brigette Finigan.
The annual convention In Oklahoma was hosted by the Council for Tribal Employment Rights (CTER). The communitybased Native American owned and operated non-profit organization is comprised of and represents the interests of more than 300 Tribal and Alaska Native Villages covered by employment rights ordinances.
The conference was the CTER's 48th annual conference, with this year's theme being "Surviving and Thriving in Uncertain Times."
TERO Officer Brian Millett, along with Workforce Development Specialist Suntayea Steinruck, TERO Chairwoman Dorothy Wait, ViceChair Paula Aubrey and TERO Commissioners Billy Fender and
Join TERO
Troy Padgette, spent three days at the conference participating in workshops, break-out sessions and listening to keynote speakers.
TERO Commission and staff sought to learn from other TERO programs about their successes, challenges, and innovations in workforce development. They also explored ideas for building Native-owned businesses and expanding Tribal entrepreneurship as pathways for employment opportunities.
In addition, they sought to understand how other tribes are navigating current workforce challenges—from federal policy shifts to labor shortages in Indian Country.
Finally, they worked to reaffirm Tolowa Dee-ni' Nation's commitment to upholding local and Tribal TERO laws, even as administrative changes and evolving economic conditions create new hurdles, and to strengthen partnerships that
ensure compliance, fairness, and opportunity for tribal citizens and businesses.
"There is so much knowledge in one place that it is impossible not to learn," said Commissioner Padgette, "I would like to see more Tribal Citizens and Native Americans with jobs getting trained and getting promoted and bettering our organization, themselves, and their families."
Commissioners and staff also attended workshops on various workforce development topics, including Women in the Trades: Building Cultural Support, How to start a Registered Apprenticeship Program, Working with Union/ MOU's, Building Native-Owned Construction Businesses and Workforce Capacity, as well as workshops focused on TERO/477 relationships.
"It was really amazing to be able to see what other Tribes are doing for workforce development," said Suntayea Steinruck,
The Tolowa Dee-ni' Nation is seeking three Tolowa Citizens to serve on TERO Commission. The deadline to apply is Friday, Dec. 19, 2025. The commission meets at 5:30 p.m. on the fourth Tuesday of every month at the Tribal headquarters. The commission is composed of five members. A minimum of three members of the Commission shall be Tolowa Dee-ni' Citizens with one of them being a Tribal Council member. All members of the Commission shall be appointed by the Tribal Council with three members serving a term of two years; and two members serving in odd numbered years, each initially for a term of one year. Applications can be found online at tolowa.gov or at the Tribal Headquarters, or send an email to recording. secretary@tolowa.com. For more information, contact Brian Millett, TERO officer at 707-487-9255 ext. 1222 or email brian.millett@ tolowa.gov
Development Specialist, "Each region and tribe is so different and has their own unique set of challenges and successes" She added, "We've focused a lot on Tribal youth workforce development this last year or so, and are excited to be launching several 18+ workforce development program initiatives in 2026; so it was extremely valuable to be able to hear that despite each Tribe's differences,
Workforce
Members of the Tolowa Dee-ni' Nation TERO Commission (left to right): Paula Aubrey, Dorothy Wait, Billy Fender and Troy Padgette at the Oklahoma conference.
resources and capacities— there are some overlapping and common trends, challenges and inspiration that we can all share and learn from each other to set our Tribal Workforce up for success."
Millet said the Nation's TERO Commission returned home with renewed motivation, fresh strategies, and a strengthened network of allies. They were excited to continue the necessary work required to uphold a strong vision, framework and capacity to support the Tribal law that is set up to empower it's citizenship, workforce and economic development.
"The Council for Tribal Employment Rights Annual Conference isn't just about training — it's a blueprint for success. The real value lies in how we apply what we've learn," said Chairwoman Wait. "When we bring new skills, insights, and partnerships back to our community, we turn knowledge into opportunity — for our citizens, our families, and our Nation. Attending legal and program-focused discussions allows the TERO Commission to grow in its capacity and leadership.
She added, "We consider it a high honor to serve the citizens of the Tolowa Dee-ni' Nation, and we are committed to using the latest tools in workforce development to break down barriers, build stronger pathways, and empower our people — now and for generations to come."
Financial Aid and Scholarship List
(Not affiliated with Tolowa Dee-ni' Nation)
Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) studentaid.gov
The Gates Scholarship thegatesscholarship.org
American Indian College Fund collegefund.org/students/ scholarships
Partnership with Native Americans nativepartnership.org/aief
Native Forward Scholars Fund nativeforward.org
American Indian Science and Engineering Society aises.org
Catching the Dream catchingthedream.org/
Cobell Scholarship cobellscholar.org/
Humboldt Area Foundation hafoundation.org/requestingsupport/scholarship-search/
Indian Health Service ihs.gov/scholarship/
Intertribal Timber Council itcnet.org/about_us/ scholarships.html
Cal Poly Humboldt humboldt.academicworks. com
National Indian Education Association www.niea.org/scholarshipopportunities
UIHS community outreach coalition seeks members
The Community Outreach Resources & Education (C.O.R.E.) Coalition seeks new members 18 years or older who are passionate about serving their communities.
The coalition is a dedicated group of American Indian and Alaska Native (AI/AN) community members residing in Del Norte and Humboldt Counties.
"We work to build and sustain a healthy cultural environment by encouraging and supporting lifestyles that promote spiritual, physical, and mental wellbeing," said Sadie Spargur, Health Promotion & Education Specialist II for United Indian Health Services, Inc.
Through close partnership with departmental programs, the coalition works collaboratively to understand the current issues and needs facing our community.
The work involves:
•Planning and strategic development.
•Data collection and analysis.
•Educational outreach and public speaking.
•Enhancing community support initiatives.
Coalition members will play a vital role in this meaningful work and are eligible for transportation support to our monthly meetings. Meetings are on the third Friday of every month. To apply or for more information, contact Sadie Spargur at sadie. spargur@uihs.org or call 707825-3574.
COUNCIL MOTIONS
Motions for September 11, 2025
WEE-NAA-TR'AA-'AA-DVN NUY-NII~-'A~ (APPROVE AGENDA):
M/S/C (Wait/Sullivan) 5-0-1 Motion to approve agenda with the addition of Annual Funding Agreement (AFA) G8480-24-0003 between the DOI National Park Service and Tolowa Dee-ni' Nation.
'Ay~: Sullivan, Thompson, Steinruck, O'Connell, Wait; Duu: 0; Xwee-la: Boardman
WAA-'AA-DVN NUY-NII~-'A~ (CONSENT AGENDA):
M/S/C (Thompson/Sullivan) 5-0-1 Motion to adopt the consent agenda including: Agenda 2025-662: Grant Application- Rural & Tribal Assistance for Transportation Planning; Agenda 2025-676: Regular meeting minutes 7.10.25, Agenda 2025-677: Letter - AB 1014Traffic Safety Speed Limits.
'Ay~: Sullivan, Thompson, Steinruck, O'Connell, Wait; Duu: 0; Xwee-la: Boardman
MII~-XVSH-XAY CH'EE-NVK (ADMINISTRATION):
M/S/C (Sullivan/Wait) 5-0-1 Motion to approve Resolution 2025-34 Tribal Gaming Commission Appointment.
'Ay~: Sullivan, Thompson, Steinruck, O'Connell, Wait; Duu: 0; Xwee-la: Boardman
M/S/C (Thompson/Steinruck) 5-0-1 Motion to approve Contract CT-2560-1610 with Armstrong Law Offices in an amount not to exceed $25k.
'Ay~: Sullivan, Thompson, Steinruck, O'Connell, Wait; Duu: 0; Xwee-la: Boardman
XAA-'VTLH-SRII-DVN (COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT & PLANNING):
M/S/C (Wait/Steinruck) 5-0-1 Motion to approve CT-2550-1607 with Res Sky Roofing
in an amount not to exceed $36,140.
'Ay~: Sullivan, Thompson, Steinruck, O'Connell, Wait; Duu: 0; Xwee-la: Boardman
M/S/C (O'Connell/Steinruck) 5-0-1 Motion to approve chairpersons signature on an Annual Funding Agreement (AFA) grant funding between the Department of the Interior (DOI) National Park Services and the Tolowa Dee-ni' Nation (TDN) in the amount of $66,177.
'Ay~: Sullivan, Thompson, Steinruck, O'Connell, Wait; Duu: 0; Xwee-la: Boardman
LHETLH-XAT-NE (TRIBAL COUNCIL):
M/S/C (Thompson/Wait) 5-0-1 Motion to approve Resolution 2025-33 Affiliated Tribes of Northwest Indians (ATNI) Membership Dues & Delegates.
'Ay~: Sullivan, Thompson, Steinruck, O'Connell, Wait; Duu: 0; Xwee-la: Boardman
Motions for September 25, 2025
WEE-NAA-TR'AA-'AA-DVN NUY-NII~-'A~ (APPROVE AGENDA):
M/S/C (Sullivan/O'Connell) 4-0-1 Motion to approve agenda with the addition to the consent agenda the regular meeting minutes for September 11, 2025.
'Ay~: Sullivan, Thompson, Giovannetti, O'Connell; Duu: 0; Xwee-la: Boardman
WAA-'AA-DVN NUY-NII~-'A~ (CONSENT AGENDA):
M/S/C (Sullivan/Thompson) 4-0-1 Motion to adopt the consent agenda including: Regular meeting minutes for 7.24.25; Regular Meeting minutes 8.14.25 & 8.28.25; Contract - CT2412-1351 AMR INC - Mod #4; Reissue Stale Dated Checks M. Lopez; Budget Modification -Fund 724 – OTA; Construction Oversight Workgroup Authorizations; LOS AB 1378 (Rogers); L7E - Contract to purchase 330 Encompass units, and the addition of the September 11, 2025 regular meeting minutes.
'Ay~: Sullivan, Thompson, Giovannetti,
O'Connell; Duu: 0; Xwee-la: Boardman
XAA-'VTLH-SRII-DVN (COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT & PLANNING):
M/S/C (Thompson/O'Connell) 4-0-1 Motion to approve Contract CT-2551-1608 with C&S Design and Engineering in an amount not to exceed $39,836.
'Ay~: Sullivan, Thompson, Giovannetti, O'Connell; Duu: 0; Xwee-la: Boardman
M/S/C (O'Connell/Giovannetti) 4-0-1 Motion to approve Contract CT-2557-1604 with Native Strategies in an amount not to exceed $180k.
'Ay~: Sullivan, Thompson, Giovannetti, O'Connell; Duu: 0; Xwee-la: Boardman
M/S/C (Sullivan/Giovannetti) 4-0-1 Motion to approve Resolution 2025-36 Request To The United States Department Of the Interior To Take The Sand Spit Into Trust And To Acknowledge And Accept The Exceptions Identified In Schedule B To The Title Insurance Commitment And Proclaim The Land As Part Of The Nation's Reservation.
'Ay~: Sullivan, Thompson, Giovannetti, O'Connell; Duu: 0; Xwee-la: Boardman
M/S/C (Sullivan/O'Connell) 4-0-1 Motion to approve Resolution 2025-37 Request To The United States Department Of The Interior To Take The Fifield Parcel Into Trust, To Acknowledge The Exceptions To Schedule B In The Title Insurance, And To Proclaim This Land As A Part Of The Reservation.
'Ay~: Sullivan, Thompson, Giovannetti, O'Connell; Duu: 0; Xwee-la: Boardman
NUU-DA'-YE'-DVN (COMMUNITY AND FAMILY WELLNESS):
M/S/C (Thompson/O'Connell) 4-0-1 Motion to approve the CFW Department to submit the 2025 Tribal Set-Aside application.
'Ay~: Sullivan, Thompson, Giovannetti, O'Connell; Duu: 0; Xwee-la: Boardman
YUU-NVLH-TS'IT-DVN (EDUCATION):
M/S/C (O'Connell/Thompson) 4-0-1 Motion to approve Contract CT-2565-1602 with Rory McCain in an amount not to exceed $30k for multimedia services for the 'A'-t'I Xwee-ghaytnish (Still, We Live On) Project.
'Ay~: Sullivan, Thompson, Giovannetti, O'Connell; Duu: 0; Xwee-la: Boardman
MVSH-XE NAA-DVTLH-NVSH-NE (ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES):
M/S/C (Giovannetti/Sullivan) 4-0-1 Motion to approve Resolution 2025-35 Appointment of the Election Board Members, Mattie Bommelyn, Sharyne Harper, Marva Jones, Sandra Netzel, and Cherry Richards.
'Ay~: Sullivan, Thompson, Giovannetti, O'Connell; Duu: 0; Xwee-la: Boardman
MII~-XVSH-XAY CH'EE-NVK (ADMINISTRATION):
M/S/C (Thompson/Sullivan) 4-0-1 Motion to approve Resolution 2025-38 Appointment of the Dee-ni' Development Incorporated (DDI) Board of Directors, Scott Sullivan 1 year term, Jeri Lynn Thompson 2 year term, Dorothy Wait 3 year term, Jose Tercilla 2 year term, and Thomas Metz 3 year term.
'Ay~: Sullivan, Thompson, Giovannetti, O'Connell; Duu: 0; Xwee-la: Boardman
M/S/C (Sullivan/O'Connell) 4-0-1 Motion to approve Appointment of Lacy LopezMartinez to the Dee-ni' Wee-ya' (Language) Committee for a 3-year term ending June 2028. Appointment of Norene Darnell and Leann Babcock-McCallum to the Housing Committee for a 3-year term ending June 2028. Appointing Emily Reed to the Housing Committee for the remainder of the 1-year vacancy, term ending June 2026.
'Ay~: Sullivan, Thompson, Giovannetti, O'Connell; Duu: 0; Xwee-la: Boardman
Motions for October 9, 2025
WEE-NAA-TR'AA-'AA-DVN NUY-NII~-'A~ (APPROVE AGENDA):
M/S/C (Wait/Steinruck) 5-0-1 Motion to approve agenda with the addition of agenda item 2025765 Tribal Cultural Monitoring Agreement between Tolowa Dee-ni' Nation and Friends of
the Dunes for Tolowa Dunes Stewards. 'Ay~: Sullivan, Thompson, Steinruck, O'Connell, Wait; Duu: 0; Xwee-la: Boardman
WAA-'AA-DVN NUY-NII~-'A~ (CONSENT AGENDA):
M/S/C (Sullivan/Thompson) 5-0-1 Motion to adopt the consent agenda including: LetterBLM Comment landscape health rule; Letter -Response to County of Del Norte, Bradford Street Properties Fee To Trust Application; LOS UIHS Support Behavioral Health Unit Grant; Grant - USFWS - golden mussel prevention grant; Head Start Expansion Budget Authorization; Head Start Contracts & Purchase Orders Approved by Workgroup.
'Ay~: Sullivan, Thompson, Steinruck, O'Connell, Wait; Duu: 0; Xwee-la: Boardman
MVSH-XE NAA-DVTLH-NVSH-NE (ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES):
M/S/C (O'Connell/Wait) 5-0-1 Motion to approve Resolution 2025-39 Tolowa Dee-ni' Nation Membership for Glena Hampson.
'Ay~: Sullivan, Thompson, Steinruck, O'Connell, Wait; Duu: 0; Xwee-la: Boardman
M/S/C (Wait/Steinruck) 5-0-1 Motion to approve Resolution 2025-40 Enrollment Committee Appointments for 2025-2026.
'Ay~: Sullivan, Thompson, Steinruck, O'Connell, Wait; Duu: 0; Xwee-la: Boardman
M/S/C (Wait/Sullivan) 5-0-1 Motion to approve Resolution 2025-41 January 2026 Petitioners' Election.
'Ay~: Sullivan, Thompson, Steinruck, O'Connell, Wait; Duu: 0; Xwee-la: Boardman
NVN-NVST-'AA~-TA (NATURAL RESOURCES):
M/S/C (O'Connell/Steinruck) 5-0-1 Motion to approve Contract CT-2540-1460 with Ryan Nelson in an amount not to exceed $27k.
'Ay~: Sullivan, Thompson, Steinruck, O'Connell, Wait; Duu: 0; Xwee-la: Boardman
M/S/C (Sullivan/O'Connell) 5-0-1 Motion to approve Contract CT-2540-1461 in an amount not to exceed $23,117 to hire a tribal youth to work part time at the hatchery.
'Ay~: Sullivan, Thompson, Steinruck,
O'Connell, Wait; Duu: 0; Xwee-la: Boardman
XAA-'VTLH-SRII-DVN (COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT & PLANNING):
M/S/C (Thompson/O'Connell) 5-0-1 Motion to approve submitting the 2026 Annual Indian Housing Plan (IHP) to HUD detailing the budget for NAHASDA spending for the coming year.
'Ay~: Sullivan, Thompson, Steinruck, O'Connell, Wait; Duu: 0; Xwee-la: Boardman
M/S/C (O'Connell/Sullivan) 5-0-1 Motion to approve the Construction Oversight Workgroup Authorized Projects.
'Ay~: Sullivan, Thompson, Steinruck, O'Connell, Wait; Duu: 0; Xwee-la: Boardman
M/S/C (Wait/O'Connell) 5-0-1 Motion to approve Contract CT-2551-1609 with McLennan Excavation in an amount not to exceed $44,900.
'Ay~: Sullivan, Thompson, Steinruck, O'Connell, Wait; Duu: 0; Xwee-la: Boardman
M/S/C (O'Connell/Wait) 5-0-1 Motion to approve Contract CT-2551-1586 with Northridge Electric in an amount not to exceed $256,834 for the Head Start Early Learning Center (ELC) to supply and install all electrical.
'Ay~: Sullivan, Thompson, Steinruck, O'Connell, Wait; Duu: 0; Xwee-la: Boardman
M/S/C (Thompson/Sullivan) 5-0-1 Motion to approve Contract CT-2551-1601 with Associated Drywall Services in an amount not to exceed $220,368.75 for the Head Start Early Learning Center (ELC) expansion to supply and install drywall and painting.
'Ay~: Sullivan, Thompson, Steinruck, O'Connell, Wait; Duu: 0; Xwee-la: Boardman
LHEE-WII-DVN (JUSTICE):
M/S/C (O'Connell/Steinruck) 5-0-1 Motion to approve Tribal Cultural Monitoring Agreement between the Tolowa Dee-ni' Nation and Friends of the Dunes for Tolowa Dunes Stewards Re: The Lake Earl Wildlife Area (LEWA) Coastal Dune & Estuary Restoration Phase 2, not to exceed $10k.
'Ay~: Sullivan, Thompson, Steinruck, O'Connell, Wait; Duu: 0; Xwee-la: Boardman
Welcome new Tolowa
Dee-ni'
Nation staff
Marlin (Marty) Peterson Controller Fiscal Department
Rhonda Martinho Peer Support Tech Communty & Family Wellness
Deadline to be reimbursed for youth sports activities is January 9, 2026
All Tribal Youth Activity Reimbursements (YAR) for the 2025 year need to be submitted by Jan. 9, 2026, with all supporting documents. Tribal Citizens can submit paperwork online through the website, request a form be sent to you, come into the front office and pick it up, or send an email to shelly.reynolds@tolowa.gov. The paperwork must be accompanied with all supporting documentation, flyer or something showing the activity, and proof of payment if we are not sending it directly to the organization. There needs to be a separate form for each activity and each youth; please do not combine activities on one form. For more information call Shelly Reynolds at 707-487-9255, ext. 1224.
Job opportunities
Tribal Office
•Home Visiting Program Coordinator (CFW) - Full Time
•Homelessness Intervention Coordinator (CFW) - Full Time
•TANF Child Welfare Project Coordinator (CFW) - Full Time
•Classroom Aide (Education) - On call
•Head Start Teacher (2 positions) (Education) - Full Time
•Health & Disabilities Coordinator (Education) - Full Time
•Internal Auditor/Compliance Officer (TGC) - Full Time
•Network Administator (Administrative Services) - Full Time
Lucky 7 Casino
•Security Officer - Full Time
Please 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.
Jaxon Abrams
Huntlee Adams
Kimberly Aldape
Austin Allen
Rowynn Allen
Michael Austin
Maximus Baines
Guy Balcom
Will Baldridge
Brielle Balswick
Gary Batini
Ashton Baty
Noella Boak
Megan Boardman
Anna Boatsman
Andrew Bravo
Andrea Bravo
Seaira Brundin
Esperanza Calderon
Dominic Campos
Huxton Canaday
Kourtney Cari
Mya Carpenter
Zackary Chapman
Makayla Chapman
Jalissa Cole
Christy Crawford
Stormy Criner
Timothy Criteser
Aleena Dass
Kalynn Davis
Devry Davis
Kalaya Davis-Bodenstab
Victor Dobrec III
Trista Donaldson
Treyvon Easley
Cole Estrada
Alvina Fairchild
MAA~-XUSLH-GHALH
Kalaia Fite
Whitley Fouts
Nellie Fox
Ari Frombach
Felicia Fugate
Abaline Gardner
Ty Ann Garey
Cheantel Gernert
Vancha Gilkey
Everly Giovannetti
Vera Giovannetti
Thomas Gochanour
Steven Gochanour Sr.
Paz Gomez
Lynne Gonzalez
Heather Griffin
Shayla Haynes
Arnold Hempel
Elizabeth Hernandez
Wesley Hinshaw
Cheyanne Hinshaw
Arianna Hooper
Nicholas Husted Jr.
Angel Idol
Elody James
Roman Janeiro
Tisha Johnson
Tyler Johnson
Jericho Johnson
Dean Jones
Michael Jones
Marva Jones
John Jones
Trevion Jones
Brannan Jones
Lorena Joy
Landon Kamisky
Garison Kamisky
Kaitlin Kendall
Ethan Kennedy
Kevin Kennedy III
Tasheena Kirby
Ezekiel Kirby
Jaz Leddy
Iven Lemmon
Richard Lopez
Amee Lopez
Robert Lopez
Vernon Losh II
Sierra Marry
Shalawn Martinez-Ferrer
Rosalie Maynard
Daniel McCann
Elise McClung
Mitchel McKuhn
Levi McLennan
Harvey Mitchell
Marquis Mogess Jr.
Kris Moorehead
Amanda Moran
Hannah Mouser
Oliver Myers
Jaxen Newton
Zachary Olds
Kristina O'Loughlin
Keth'nu O'Reilley
Kaydence Owen
Lucinda Parras
Nicco Parras
Karen Payne
Holly Pittman
Miles Pruett
Jacob Rader
Marissa Ram
Robin Rasmussen
Constance Reynolds
Laurene Richards
Rocky Richards
Elijah Richards
Emma Richards
Jesse Richards III
Marvin Richards Jr.
See-lhsrik Richards-Davis
James Richmond
Braquel Roberts
Ricardo Rojas
Jess Sanders
Frances Schriver
Philbert Sesher
Katrina Simpson
Sharon Smith
David Smith
Anthony Smith
Iris Smith
Gabrielle Solomon
Zaydie Stoll
Scott Sullivan
Phillip Sullivan
Cheryl Templer
Jason Thomas
Teresa Thompson
Harold Thornton
Tyler Travis
Marlee Tribur
Chvn-Was-Na Tuttle
Arden Upton
Laura Valley
Olivia Valley
Shane Vistalli-Alvarado
Madison Werner
Kace Wetzel
Tina Whipple-Hall
Remi White
Brayden Wilber
Tyler Wilber
Adaline Williams
Adie Wilson
Skylar Windham
Kyley Workman
Jennifer Zeman
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
Suggested donations: Elders 55-plus $2 (depending on income) Under 55 $7
Menu subject to change without notice
Deadline for January newsletter Email submissions to scott.graves@tolowa.gov
Tolowa Dee-ni' Nation
12801 Mouth of Smith River Rd.
Smith River, CA 95567
