January 2025 newsletter

Page 1


TDN project receives financial boost from accord with U.S. Army Corps of Engineers

Funding will help improve health, well-being of Tribal Citizens

The Tolowa Dee-ni' Nation and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers on Wednesday, Dec. 18, signed a ceremonial agreement that will provide the Nation with $800,000 toward extensive improvements to a 50-year-old wastewater system serving low-income households at Xaa-wan’-k’wvt (Howonquet) Village and Resort in Smith River, Calif.

“This is a historic partnership between the Tolowa Dee-ni’ Nation and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers that will ultimately improve the health and wellbeing of our community as well as the surrounding environment,” said Tribal Council Chairperson Jeri Lynn Thompson. “This agreement is only the first step in securing overall funding for a project that will ultimately connect 150-plus low-income homes to a quality regional wastewater system by replacing the existing outdated, lagoon-based wastewater system.”

“We are extremely proud to partner with the Tolowa Dee-ni’ Nation on a project that I’m confident will greatly improve the living conditions of those who call this beautiful part of California home,” said Lt. Col. Timothy Shebesta, commander of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers San Francisco District. “As an added benefit, the project will help assure the pristine environment of the Smith River watershed, and we look forward to bringing our collective expertise to the table.”

The Nation plans to replace wastewater infrastructure at Xaa-wan'-k'wvt Village and Resort, located at the Mouth of the Smith River, on the Pacific Ocean. The property, formerly known as the Ship Ashore Mobile Home Park, was purchased by the Nation in 2016, and renamed to Xaa-wan'-k'wvt Village & Resort, in recognition of the return of the historical Xaa-wan'-k'wvt Village, a municipality that provided the Tolowa people with governance, food, housing and worship. While most of the infrastructure on the property has considerable deferred maintenance issues, this project is a priority

Members of the Nation's Tribal Council gather with representatives of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers at Xaa-wan'-k'wvt Village.

for the Nation as the current wastewater system is an outdated lagoon system that does not meet current environmental regulatory standards and poses considerable health and safety concerns. The lagoon is a quarter mile from the Smith River Estuary and is an environmental risk and hazard. Without funds for system replacement, the current system could fail, leaving 150 households without wastewater disposal and could harm the environment.

The estimated cost of the project, which consists of wastewater collection replacement and wastewater treatment plant expansion, is approximately $25 million. The project is included as part of the Water Resources Development Act, passed by Congress in 2023. The partnership with the Army Corps of Engineers is hoped to provide 75 percent of the funding needed for the project. The Nation is seeking $6 to $7 million in additional funding from the state of California to complete the project.

Replacement of the outdated wastewater system has been a long-term goal of California’s North Coast Regional Water Quality Control Board which, in 2018, funded

a $500,000 preliminary engineering study to determine the best option for replacing the collection and treatment systems. This study determined the best option was to replace the existing collection systems and lift stations that carry wastewater 1.1 miles north to the Regional Wastewater Treatment Plant, owned and operated by the Nation. This would roughly double the capacity of the plant, a modern, membrane bio-reactor treatment plant that has been operating for 12-plus years with certified operators. The project is fully designed and permitted (including NEPA), and the Coastal Development Permit has been approved.

Council Chairperson Jeri Thompson and Lt. Col. Timothy Shebesta sign the final agreement.

All Tribal Council: council@tolowa-nsn.gov

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Human Resources Director, Jeff Davis (707)487-9255, ext. 1213, jeff.davis@tolowa.com

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

Records Manager, Staci Barr 707-487-9255, ext.1180, staci.barr@tolowa.com

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

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

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

Tribal Heritage Preservation Office, Cynthia Ford (707)487-9255, ext. 1174, cynthia.ford@tolowa.com

The Smith River winds its way through chvn-su'lh-dvn (Jedediah Smith State Park) on a winter day.

DAY MIN’-NE’

Lha' Num-nii~-ma~s (January) 2025 Tribal Government Newsletter published by the Tolowa Dee-ni' Nation, 12801 Mouth of Smith River Road, Smith River CA 95567. Website: www. tolowa-nsn.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, scott.graves@tolowa.com, 707-487-9255.

YEAR IN REVIEW

January & February, 2024

Tribal Council

Member Dr. Joseph Giovannetti is inducted into the North American Indigenous Athletics Hall of Fame. He was a national caliber middldistance runner at Humboldt State University from 1969-1972, establishing multiple running records.

A special election is held on February 17 to vote on a proposed constitutional amendment, with 80 percent of the 232 voters approving it. The amendment eliminated a conflict in eligibility requirements for candidates seeking election to the Tribal Council.

Tribal and non-tribal citizens participate in a Community Focus Group meeting to discuss their experiences related to food access during recent wildfires and emergency preparedness.

Tribal Citizens Ashton Baty, Layton Owen, and Elder Norene Darnell, pictured, successfully fill their elk tags during the 2024 for the Cultural chis-chu (Elk) Hunt. Norene captured her chis-chu from Shaa-xu'-xat (Rowdy Creek Park) in Smith River on January 27. The meat was distributed to Tribal Citizens and used at events throughout the year.

The Tribal Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program and the Native American Child Victim of Crime (NA) program, both of Community and Family Wellness, host a "Craft Night Re-Visited" Family Unity Activity at the Howonquet Hall.

Tribal Citizen Suntayea Steinruck receives the annual Secretary of the Interior Historic Preservation Award for her outstanding contributions to the preservation of historic places and artifacts.

March & April, 2024 TDN YEAR IN REVIEW

The Tribal Council creates the Nvn-nvst-‘aa~-ta waa-tr’vslh-’a~ Land Trust, Inc., a nonprofit trust to steward, create access to, and facilitate ownership of the Nation’s Aboriginal lands.

The Nation, along with the Yurok Tribe, officially announces its opposition to floating wind energy farms proposed off the coast of Northern California. The Tribes urge the U.S. Department of the Interior and the Bureau of Ocean Energy Managements to half all scoping and permitting for the project.

TDN’s GIS Specialist Henry Sanderson receives the Tribal GPS Program of the Year award because of his work in collecting, organizing and access to tribal information via databases, geodatabases, file system and supporting files.

Xaa-wan’-k’wvt Early Learning Program celebrates the arrival of Spring with an Easter egg hunt and a visit from the Easter Bunny.

The Tolowa Dee-ni' Nation along with the Waa-tr'vslh-'a~ (Culture) Committee recognize Adrienne Thomas and Sue Jocsing for their years of service to the Nation. Adrienne has served on the Waa-tr'vslh-'a~ Committee since 2013, and Sue has served on the Waatr'vslh-'a~ Committee since 2016. Both have provided invaluable guidance to the Nation regarding the protection and perpetuation of Tolowa Dee-ni' Cultural Resources.

June, 2024 TDN

YEAR IN REVIEW

May &

The annual general election is held on May 18, with 328 voters participating in the election for two open tribal council seats.

Incumbents Amanda O'Connell and Jeri Lynn Thompson are reelected by the voters.

Tribal Citizens and community members participate in the first MMIP (Missing and Murdered Indigenous People) Awareness Walk. Participants created signs and banners and walked along Highway 101 in downtown Crescent City to bring awareness to how much work still needs to be done to bring closure to the cases that have not been resolved.

Tribal Citizens and community members participate in the annual cemetery clean-up and elders gathering at the Howonquet Indian Cemetery, during which they care for the resting place of loved ones and ancestors.

Children in the Dan’-dee-ni’ (Spring Salmon), K’wee-lhin’-chu (Frog), and Chis-Chu (Elk) classrooms graduate or participate in a moving up ceremony from Xaa-wan’-k’wvt Early Learning Program.

Tribal Citizens serving as Nation ambassadors participate as runners in the Peace and Dignity Journey.

YEAR IN REVIEW

July, 2024

The Nation announces the commencement of the Rowdy and Dominie Creek Fish Passage Improvement Project, to restore fish access to nearly 13 miles of high-quality stream habitat in tributaries to the Smith River. An outdated weir and fish trap will be replaced with a more fish-friendly design.

The Tolowa float, designed by Tribal youth and staff for Crescent City’s annual Fourth of July Parade, wins first place in the “Theme and Creativity” category.

Local citizens and visitors from across the state and country get the opportunity to connect with and learn more about the Tolowa Dee-ni’ Nation and California State Parks during the Nation’s Tvm-chaa-me’ Day celebration. The event includes a Tolowa Culture interpretation presentation, old growth redwood canoe exhibit, Tolowa food demonstration and information tables.

The Nation’s Youth Services Division provides fun, cultural learning opportunities such as canoe building, hide processing and drum making through the ACE program.

The Nation receives a $786,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services for its Native language project ‘A’-t’I Xwee-ghaytnish. For the next three years, the Nation will embark on the comprehensive initiative designed to preserve and promote ancestral language and culture and provide language learning opportunities.

August, 2024 TDN

YEAR IN REVIEW

Tribal Citizens gather on the bank of the Smith River Estuary for the ceremonial birthing of a Xee-nvs (canoe), a tradition that hadn’t happened for nearly 100 years. The Xee-nvs was carved from a fallen local redwood tree by adult and youth volunteers over the course of several years.

Tribal youth participate in a summer workshop where they learn the basics of filming as they help create a short documentary film about the building of a traditional Xee-nvs (canoe).

Tolowa K-12 grade girls and mentors enjoy a weeks-long See-ghvlh Yvlh-srii-dvn (hair ties making class), which introduces youth to traditional regalia making skills that focus on sewing, beading and leather work.

Games and delicious food are the highlights of the 2nd annual Back to School Carnival held for Tribal youth and families. Much needed school supplies and educational information was distributed during the event, attended by more than 100 people at the Howonquet Hall.

YEAR IN REVIEW

The documentary film "Keepers of the Coastline," presented by PBS and NOVA showcasing Native American filmmakers and climate change – and featuring many Tolowa Dee-ni’ Citizens –premiers on PBS’s website. It includes examples of how the Nation, along with other tribes, is increasing efforts to preserve and protect the environment within the Indigenous Marine Stewardship Area.

September, 2024

The Community and Family Wellness staff wear orange to show support for the National Truth and Reconciliation Day and to send the message that “Every Child Matters.” It’s a day to remember that thousands of Native American children who never returned home from residential schools, those who survived, their families and communities.

Hundreds of Tribal Citizens and non-Tribal community members flock to the 17th Annual Dee-ni ' Day at Howonquest Hall Community Center in Smith River. They enjoyed food, shopping and various cultural demonstrations and activities, including traditional stick games, gambling and a regalia showcase.

Tribal elder and Cultural Monitor Darrell Moorehead discovers a culturally significant Tolowa artifact –a stone see-xat (mortar) – at Rowdy Creek Fish Hatchery. The item was safely transported to a new location for study and preservation.

The Nation honors its elders and veterans, and celebrates the academic accomplishments of Tribal Citizens, during the annual Dee-ni' Night. More than 300 people attended the event at Lucky 7 Casino Tolowa Event Center. On the same night, the Community Family Wellness Department hosts the 3rd Annual Dee-ni' Night for Kids, which provided child care for tribal youth ages 3-17 while their parents or guardians attend Dee-ni’ Night.

October, 2024 TDN

YEAR IN REVIEW

California Gov. Gavin Newsom approves legislation, endorsed by the Nation, that ensures that tribal voices and experiences are included in statewide natural resource management efforts.

About 80 Tribal Citizens review and comment on 10 Tolowa information videos that will ultimately be part of the “Tolowa Cultural Walk” trail planned as part of Crescent City’s ongoing transformation of Beachfront Park.

After 120 days, the Rowdy and Dominie Creek Fish Passage Improvement Project culminates with the removal of a construction dam that allows Rowdy Creek to flow freely once again.

city officially recognizes Oct. 14, 2024, as Indigenous Peoples’ Day. The city also encouraged local businesses, organizations and public institutions to do likewise.

The Nation receives nearly $4.8 million in federal broadband dollars to install 10 miles of underground and aerial fiber along U.S. 101 from the Oregon border to the Dr. Fine Bridge in Del Norte County. The “Fiber-to-The-Home” project will bring internet access to approximately 286 individuals.

Tribal Council Member Jaytuk Steinruck joins the Crescent City Council as the

November & December, 2024 TDN

YEAR IN REVIEW

Staff with the Community and Family Wellness Department and Education Department host the Xii-dvn (wintertime) Prevention Activity. About 15 families (60 people) enjoy home cooked meal, play Tolowa language bingo, and make traditional mvn’ (house) ornaments.

In celebration of National Adoption Day on Nov. 18, the staff at the Community and Family Wellness Department wear white to raise awareness of children in foster care, promote adoption, and recognize the efforts of adoptive parents, social workers and advocates.

About 125 families receive food packages during this year’s final “Local Food is Good Medicine” fresh food drive-through at Gilbert Creek facility. The free, monthly program is one year into a two-year plan that uses a USDA grant to provide fresh produce and meat to Tribal Citizens. It is first come, first served and supplies run out quickly each month.

Three Federally recognized California Tribes – Tolowa Dee-ni' Nation, Pulikla Tribe of Yurok People, and CherAe Heights Indian Community of the Trinidad Rancheria –sign a historic inter-Tribal treaty of stewardship and responsibility to collaborate on management, protection and restoration of the Yurok-Tolowa Dee-ni' Indigenous Marine Stewardship Area.

Natural Resources team studies whale carcass

This fall, the Nation's Natural Resource Department staff were alerted to a humpback tee-la~ (whale) that had washed ashore at Yan' naa-svt (Kellogg Beach) by Cal Poly Humboldt's Marine Mammal Stranding Program. Marine Division Manager and Biologist Rosa Laucci went out with Dalton Beene, one of our new employees in our Environmental Protection Division, to assist

in the necropsy of the sub-juvenile male humpback.

“The whale was heavily decomposed and scavenged when he washed up, but staff did their best to collect samples from this majestic animal to figure out why he died,” Laucci said. “We collected samples of tee-la~ lhk'aa (blubber), tissue, and baleen, and took all various measurements.”

The Natural Resources Department has a great relationship with Cal Poly Humboldt's Marine Mammal Stranding Program, and this collaboration has provided some incredible experiences for the Nation’s staff and insight into the health of our oceans and the amazing creatures that inhabit it.

This activity was done in using permits NMFS #24359 and NMFS Permit# 18786-02.

Natural Resource Department staff take samples from a beached humpback tee-la~ (whale) found at Yan' naa-svt (Kellogg Beach).

Guest speaker Kasey Nicholson delights attendees with his words of wisdom, encouragement and humor.

Tribal families enjoy Winterfest and community meal

Tolowa Dee-ni' Nation families gathered for Winterfest and a community meal at the Lucky 7 Casino Tolowa Event Center on Dec. 18, organized by the Community and Family Wellness Department. The atmosphere was adorned in tranquil hues of blue and white, accented with eucalyptus, fairy lights and tealights on the tables to give Winter Solstice vibes. The community meal that was catered by the House of Howonquet.

Families in attendance with youth were gifted with family calming kits, provided

Nutcracker Ballet

through The Discovery Source, designed to impart essential strategies for recognizing and navigating the “big” feelings and emotions vital for their journeys in school and life.

A highlight of the event was guest speaker Kasey Nicholson, of Fort Belknap Rez in Montana, known affectionately as Rezzalicious. Since 2014, Kasey has shared his wisdom on stages far and wide. His performance brought us uplifting words, hearty laughter and a vibrant energy that resonated throughout the room.

In December five Tribal youth participated in the 10th Annual Wild Rivers Coast Nutcracker Ballet, presented by the Wild Rivers Coast Foundation of Dance. The ballet included holiday music and dancers of all ages.

Far right: CFW staff greet families at the event at the Tolowa Event Center.
Left to right: Eva Thompson, Lilly Thompson, Melody Campbell, Carlie Mouser and Sadie Mouser.

Tribal Citizens get SCUBA trained for Sea Grant Project

Tribal Citizens and staff with the Natural Resources Department spent the last few months of 2024 conducting in-water scuba diving training as part of the Ghvtlh-k'vsh shu'-srnelh-'l~ (Kelp Guardians) Sea Grant Project.

The project, in partnership with Reef Check California, trains and certifies up to 10 Natural Resources staff and Tribal Citizens to conduct both kelp monitoring and restoration efforts, including establishing kelp nurseries and grow-out sites, in Tolowa ancestral territory.

The program was spurred by the recent decline of California’s ghvtlh-k’vsh (kelp) forests, which affects the cultural lifeways and health of the Nation. Other partners include Cal Poly Humboldt Sea Grant California, Reef Check, Sunken Seaweed Humboldt and NAS Food Sovereignty Lab and Traditional Ecological Knowledges Institute.

Participants will continue proficiency dives and start open water training in April and May.

Learn more about the project or upcoming workshops by visiting tinyurl.com/mrywzun.

Tribal citizens and staff with the Natural Resources Department get certified in SCUBA using an inside pool and in open water on the Smith River (right).

ABOVE: The Nation's contruction staff prepare forms used when pouring concrete for sidewalks outside the center.

RIGHT: Final exterior work is nearly done on the front of the Tribal Justice Center..

Crews finalize work on new Tribal Justice Center

The Tolowa Dee-ni' Nation work crew and contractors are busy putting the final touches on our new Tribal Justice Center in Smith River.

Furniture and other office infrastructure were being installed throughout December and a grand opening is schedule for late January. (Follow us on social media for the official announcement and time and date of the opening.)

The purpose of the center is to provide a safe, secure, accessible facility for Tribal Court

and Legal resources, and to better meet the needs of Tribal Citizens. It is ADA accessible, with plenty of parking, and includes a large lobby, a law library, a large courtroom, and incorporates measures to ensure the safety of court staff and citizens.

The facility replaces the existing courtroom in downtown Smith River, which is too small, without adequate lobby space and meeting space. The new Justice Center also moves Tribal Court to our own Trust Land.

Santa Claus visits Head Start

Santa Claus took a little break from his busy schedule Friday, Dec. 20, to visit the students and staff at the Howonquet Head Start school. Santa dazzled the children with laughter, good cheer and a story about how Rudolph was hanging out with elk nearby after accidentally thinking they were reindeer. Santa then handed out presents and chatted with them about their holiday wishes.

Workers put the finishing touches on an interior wall of the Justice Center.

CH' EE-NVK-T'I

Welcome to the World!

Azariah Anahi Moreno Ramirez

We are happy to announce Azariah Anahi Moreno Ramirez, who was born at 8 a.m. Sept. 23, 2024, in Crescent City, Calif., to Neno and Yussie Moreno. Azariah weighed 7 pounds, 11 ounces and was 19 inches long. Azariah’s sibling is Julian Ramirez. She was welcomed by great grandmother Florinda Salcedo, grandmother Kelly Salcedo, auntie Miley Moreno and uncles Issac, Landon and James. Her great-great grandmother was Nadene Green.

Thomson earns HR certificate

Human Resources Department

Generalist Tim Thomson earned a "Tribal Human Resources Professional Certificate" in December for fulfilling requirements as defined by the National Native American Human Resources Association.

Steinruck joins CR softball team

Congratulations to Tribal youth Tsinte Steinruck, a Del Norte High School student who has committed to playing on the College of the Redwoods softball team.

Tsinte is a solid third baseman and all-around utility player in her fourth year playing Del Norte High School Warrior Softball. She has led her team to a Big 5 Conference Championship, performing in the field, at the plate, and on the bases.

She is a versatile multi-sport athlete, playing volleyball (earning all-league honors) and basketball (earning all-league honorable mentions) for the Del Norte Warriors for four years, while earning honors for academic excellence.

Off the field, Tsinte, born and raised in Del Norte County, is

actively engaged in her tribal community, culture, and the stewardship of her ancestral lands. She has been a member of the local 4-H club for nine years, raising swine and volunteering in the community. She also enjoys the outdoors and spends her time camping, backpacking, kayaking, surfing, and playing sticks.

NA'SR-DVTLH-NVSH-DVN

Employee of the month

Jason Padgette Planner III

Jason's dedication, hard work, and commitment to excellence have been integral to the success of the XVR Project. For more than six decades, the view of the Smith River estuary was blocked by the hotel and restaurant that have now been demolished, and Jason has played a crucial role in restoring that iconic view to the community. His attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and relentless effort have made this project a reality, and the results speak for themselves. His ability to bring together years of dreams, hard work, and planning into tangible results is truly impressive. He has exemplified professionalism and dedication throughout every stage of the project, ensuring that every aspect was executed to the highest standards.

New Position

As the Tolowa Dee-ni' Nations Renewable Energy Coordinator (REC), Jadelin will act as the lead person responsible for tracking, maintaining, and engaging in all the Nation's Energy Programs or those that may affect the Nation. She will also assist in administering the design and implementation of the Tolowa Dee-ni' Nation's Energy Programs.

Jadelin is a Tribal Citizen of the Tolowa Dee-ni' Nation and is deeply involved in her culture and language. Her previous work experience includes leading a team of Native Youth to foster cultural stewardship and environmental protection. These programs also helped the youth gain work experience in preparation for entering the workforce. While doing this work, Jadelin completed her Bachelor of Science in Public Policy, Planning and Management at the University of Oregon. She is glad to be working to combat climate change on an organizational level and support her tribe's full sovereignty.

New Employee

Fallon Dudley-Amezquita

Community & Family Wellness Department

As the new MMIP Project Coordinator, Fallon will coordinate the development of process and procedures in responding to Missing and Murdered Indigenous People (MMIP). Through education and outreach with community partners such as law enforcement, community members, and other tribal partners in surrounding counties, her goal is to increase knowledge of the MMIP epidemic and facilitate a streamlined joint agency response to missing and murdered Indigenous people in the area. Fallon received her AA in Social and Behavioral Sciences from Butte College in 2012, which helped cultivate a passion for social justice and serving others. In 2015, she received her Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from California State University, Chico, where upon graduating magna cum laude, she worked full-time in the CSUC Center for Entrepreneurship coordinating programs and events for student success. Most recently, she worked with the City of Crescent City coordinating events and assisting in program development, lending her key insights and connections within the Del Norte community.

Tribal Citizens are encouraged to apply for an opening on the Tribal Employment Rights Commission, which is responsible for regulating employment practices of the Tolowa Dee-ni' Nation’s entities or enterprises or other employers or contractors/subcontractors within the Nation’s territory. 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 on our website or at the Tribal Headquarters, or send an email to recording.secretary@tolowa.com.

COUNCIL MOTIONS

Motions for September 12, 2024

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

M/S/C (O’Connell/Sullivan) 4-0-1 Motion to approve agenda with the addition of agenda item 2024-380 under IX Education for Annual Funding Agreement (AFA) project with State parks increasing interpretation.

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

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

M/S/C (Steinruck/O’Connell) 4-0-1 Motion to adopt the consent agenda including: Agenda 2024-386: Regular meeting minutes for June 26th; Agenda 2024-401: Regular Meeting minutes for July 11; Agenda 2024-412: Regular meeting minutes for July 25.

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

MVSH-XE NAA-DVTLH-NVSH-NE (ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES):

M/S/C (Sullivan/O’Connell) 4-0-1 Motion to approve with corrections Resolution 2024-39 Appointment of the Enrollment Committee.

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

YUU-NVLH-TS'IT-DVN (EDUCATION):

M/S/C (Steinruck/Sullivan) 4-0-1 Motion to approve with corrections Contract CT-24711392 with Rory McCain in an amount not to exceed $15k.

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

M/S/C (O’Connell/Wait) 4-0-1 Motion to approve Contract CT-2471-1393 ACE project partnership with Del Norte County Office of Education (DNOE) / Sources of Strength Program at Sunset High School.

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

M/S/C (Sullivan/Steinruck) 4-0-1 Motion to approve an agreement with the National Park Service (NPS) G8480-24-0015 under Annual Funding Agreement (AFA) G848024-0003, between the Department of the Interior and Tolowa Dee-ni' Nation, in the amount of $30k. With the amendment to include utilizing the federal rate for translations of unique and endangered languages

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

NVN-NVST-'AA~-TA (NATURAL RESOURCES):

M/S/C (O’Connell/Steinruck) 4-0-1 Motion to approve the chairpersons signature and to submit to the Department of Commerce for Tolowa Dee-ni' Nation Fisheries Disaster Assistance Request due to the closing of the 2023 Smith River Chinook fishery.

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

M/S/C (Steinruck/Wait) 4-0-1 Motion to approve Contract CT-2440-1397 with West Coast Contracting, for phase 1 of the Rowdy Creek Water Recirculating System, not to exceed $1,200,000.

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

M/S/C (O’Connell/Wait) 4-0-1 Motion to approve Contract CT-2440-1394 with Fish Technologist Ryan Nelson for Sonar Monitoring, Solar Equipment use, and network equipment, in an amount not to exceed $24k.

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

XAA-'VTLH-SRII-DVN

(COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT & PLANNING):

M/S/C (O’Connell/Sullivan) 4-0-1 Motion to approve to submit the grant application for $20M under the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Environmental and Climate Justice Community Change Grants Program,

including authorization and execution of the Chairperson’s signature on the partnership agreement grant application.

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

M/S/C (Sullivan/O’Connell) 4-0-1 Motion to approve with corrections Resolution 2024-41 Digital Equity Competitive Grant Application.

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

M/S/C (Sullivan/Steinruck) 4-0-1 Motion to approve Contract CT-2414-1395 with Lyn Craig LLC in an amount not to exceed $11,500 for grant writing services.

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

M/S/C (Sullivan/Steinruck) 4-0-1 Motion to approve Contract CT-2414-1396 with C&S Design Engineering LLC in an amount not to exceed $3,990.

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

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

M/S/C (Sullivan/O’Connell) 4-0-1 Motion to approve with corrections the submission of the CCDF fiscal waiver and the Chairpersons signature on the letter. Grant Year (GY) 23 funding streams are eligible for a fiscal waiver citing extraordinary circumstances.

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

M/S/C (O’Connell/Steinruck ) 4-0-1 Motion to approve the Community & Family Wellness Department to submit a request for a no cost extension to the Office of Victims of Crime (OVC) Tribal Victim Services Set Aside award for an additional 24 months.

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

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COUNCIL MOTIONS

M/S/C (O’Connell/Sullivan) 4-0-1 Motion to approve Community & Family Wellness Department to submit a no cost extension to the Office on Violence Against Women (OVW) in regard to the FY2020 OVW Tribal Government Program Award.

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

LHEE-WII-DVN (JUSTICE):

M/S/C (O’Connell/Steinruck) 4-0-1 Motion to approve with the addition the Chairpersons signature and submission of letter from Tolowa Dee-ni' Nation with Comments on Cultural Resources Mitigation for Proposed Last Chance Grade Project.

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

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

M/S/C (Sullivan/Steinruck) 4-0-1 Motion to approve Resolution 2024-40 Affiliated Tribes of Northwest Indians (ATNI) Membership and Delegates for 2024-2025.

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

M/S/C (O’Connell/Steinruck) 4-0-1 Motion to approve appointing Garrett Campbell to the Culture Committee for a 3-year term ending June 2027.

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

Motions for November 14, 2024 WAA-'AA-DVN NUY-NII~-'A~ (CONSENT AGENDA):

M/S/C (O’Connell/Boardman) 4-0-1 Motion to adopt the consent agenda including: regular meeting minutes for August 22, 2024. 'Ay~: Boardman, Steinruck, Giovannetti, O'Connell; Duu: 0; Xwee-la: Sullivan

NUU-DA'-YE'-DVN (COMMUNITY AND

FAMILY WELLNESS):

M/S/C (O’Connell/Boardman) 4-0-1 Motion to approve submitting the revised budget to Cal OES Unserved/Underserved Victim Advocacy and Outreach UV Program 23-24.

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

M/S/C (O’Connell/Steinruck) 4-0-1 Motion to approve submitting revised budget to Cal OES Native American Child Abuse Treatment (NA) Program 23-24 budget update.

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

NVN-NVST-'AA~-TA (NATURAL RESOURCES):

M/S/C (O’Connell/Boardman) 4-0-1 Motion to approve Contract CT-2440-1178 modification #1 for Del Norte Fire Safe Council to increase contract amount $150k.

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

M/S/C (Boardman/O’Connell) 4-0-1 Motion to approve Contract CT-2440-1403 with Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota for Wetland Program Support in an amount not to exceed $91k.

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

M/S/C (Steinruck/Giovannetti) 4-0-1 Motion to approve Contract CT-2440-1402 with Del Norte County Rural Human Services, Salmon in the classroom project in the amount of $6,514.

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

M/S/C (O’Connell/Steinruck) 4-0-1 Motion to approve Contract with California Marine Sanctuary Foundation (CMFS) in the amount of $6k.

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

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

M/S/C (Giovannetti/Steinruck) 4-0-1 Motion to approve Contract CT-2440-1334 Mod #1 with West Coast Contracting, for fish passage improvement project, for an additional $1,580,985 allowing additional time to install the new fish weir.

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

M/S/C (Steinruck/Boardman) 4-0-1 Motion to approve submitting application for an Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Brownfields Clean-up grant FY25 for the removal and clean-up of the Ship at Xaawan’-k’wvt Village and Resort in the amount of $2M.

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

YUU-NVLH-TS'IT-DVN (EDUCATION):

M/S/C (O’Connell/Boardman) 4-0-1 Motion to approve Contract CT-2371-1286 Mod #1 with Shannon Lopez for extension of time. New end date will be September 30, 2025.

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

M/S/C (O’Connell/Steinruck) 4-0-1 Motion to approve Contract CT-2471-1401 with Hans Rickers in an amount not to exceed $15k and ending September 30, 2025.

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

M/S/C (Boardman/O’Connell) 4-0-1 Motion to approve Contract CT-2471-1400 with Lisa Anderson in an amount not to exceed $15k.

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

MVSH-XE NAA-DVTLH-NVSH-NE (ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES):

M/S/C (Boardman/O’Connell) 4-0-1 Motion to approve Resolution 2024-51 Authorized Signer for Tribal Verification and Tax Exemption documents.

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

Taya Adams

Jaci Arlandson

Chase Aubrey

Lena Ault

Orion Ault

Sarrah Balcom

Brittany Balswick

Matthew Batini

Kai'Laya Benevich

Emma Benson

Trelynn Bentley

Adam Bentley

Bryn Bentley

Corey Betteridge

Linda Blagden

Gregory Blodgett

Darcie Boardman

Amber Boardman

Delaina Bommelyn

Waa-Sayn-Ni Bommelyn

MAA-XUSLH-GHALH

Kayla Gochanour

Allan Gochanour

Jordyn Gonzalez

John Goodlin

Arturo Guerrero

Noe Guerrero

Dylan Hall

Kyle Hampson

Judy Haynes

Misty Hernandez

Rachel Hernandez

Donald Hodges

Vicky Hoffer

Celeste Hoiem

William Hostler

Bryce Hurd

Lucinda Hurt

Lisa Irvine

Caila Irwin

Tvshiina Jacobs

Ronald James

Carl James

Joshua James

Vicki Bommelyn-Rodriguez

Santiago Calderon

Madison Calleja

Matteo Cari-Arias

Dustin Carpenter

Marjorie Cavalier

James Chapman

Shaelee Cox

Joshua Criteser

Dylan Davis

Dionne Dillard

Zoey Duncan

Breanna Ellis

Chance Erkkila

Gregory Fahl

Nicole Fillmore

Brandy Foster

Corbin Fouts

Vannessa Freeland

Calley Gertsch

Kim Giovannetti

Juliette Giovannetti

Cione Johnson-Baltodano

Day-Chi-Nes Jones

Jennie Joy

Hailey Joy

Stephanie Kasinger

Waylon Kessler

Allen Keuth

Phoenix Kuhn

Toby Lampley

Claire Landay

Erin Larson

Benjamin Larson

Arthur Laverty

Kimberly Leavelle

Landon Leavelle

Mason Lehr

Kalvein Lehr

Madyson Lemley

Aimee Lenihan

Edward Lopez

Jason Lopez

Joshua Lopez

Mattie Lopez

Lilyonna Lopez

Shoshoni Lopez

Elisabeth Lopez

Sawyer Lopez

Lola Lopez

Makoa Lopez

Daniel Lopez-Arcos

Anne Luerra

Diana Lunsford

Gena Marini

Derek Martin

Otto Martin

Alicia Martinez

Jeremy May

Michael Maynard

Ethon Maynard

Myra McMahan

Ethan Mead

Rafael Medina

Tyler Mickelson

Braya Mismash

Darrell Moorehead

Amanda Morse

Trever Mouser

Zachary Netcher

Marcos Nunez-Arias

Addison Nyborg

Layton O'Reilley

Patricia Ott

Wade Owen

Ben Payne

Lawrence Payne

Kenneth Payne

Bennett Payne

Chamet Phillippi

Ella Phillips

Izabelle Phillips-Martin

Rhyan Philpott

Vanessa Piazza

Joshua Pittman

Alli Pittman

Jeremy Rhodes

Ronald Richards

Floyd Richards

Beth Richards

James Richards

Mattigan Richards

Cali Richards

Braxxton Richards

Elijah Salcedo

Bert Sanderson

Logan Sanford

Levi Sanford

Christy Sarina

Seth Scaglione

Michael Schell

Rhonda Scott

Jesse Sells

Deegan Sendit

Aireden Sossaman

Sequoia Starkey

Sheryl Steinruck

Suntayea Steinruck

Brexlynn Stoll

Joell Swan

Daniel Thomas

Andrew Thomas

Trynity Travis

Darlene Van Mechelen

Leticia Villegas-Lopez

Isabelle Waddington

Catori Walters-Thornton

Emelia Webb

Tyler Weeks

Malachi Weeks

Austin Weir

Clayton Wells

Charles Wescovich

Tracie Whipple

Cecil Wilber

Woloja Willburn

Paula Windham

Shelby Wiseman

Freya Woodsman

Nieca Wright

Heather Wyland

Brittany Wyland

Giovanni Younker

Jayden Zappe

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

JANUARY 2025

Interested in serving on a Tribal committee? Fill out an application and send it to recording.secretary@ tolowa.com or call 707-487-9255.

Education Committee

5:30 p.m.

House of Howonquet, Nii~-li~ Room 1st Monday of month

Language Committee 5 p.m.

House of Howonquet, Nii~-li~ Room 1st Tuesday of month

Cream of broccoli soup Beans and bacon

Suggested donations:

Elders 55-plus $2 (depending on income)

Under 55 $7

Chili relleno Sweet & sour pork

Natural Resources and Harvesting Committee

5 - 7 p.m.

All Tribal offices will be closed for the holiday Closed for holiday

16450 Oceanview Dr. 1 Breakfast

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Indian Child Welfare Advisory Board

12 p.m.

House of Howonquet, Nii~-li~ Room 1st Wednesday of month

Chicken Posole Baked fish with rice Kielbasa with red potatoes

House of Howonquet, Nii~-li~ Room 3rd Tuesday of month CANCELLED!

Housing Committee 5:30 p.m.

Culture Committee

5 p.m.

House of Howonquet, Nii~-li~ Room 4th Wednesday of month

Tomato soup with 1/2 tuna sandwich Chicken Cacciatore Sausage and Kale soup

House of Howonquet, Nii~-li~ Room 3rd Wednesday of month CANCELLED!

Enrollment Committee 12:30 p.m.

TDN Headquarters building 4th Monday of month

TERO Commission 5:30 p.m.

TDN Headquarters building 4th Tuesday of month

CFW office closed for staff training.

Fresh Food Giveaway Drive Through 12-3 p.m.

Chicken fiesta Ham and cheese casserole

Tolowa Dee-ni’ Nation

12801 Mouth of Smith River Rd.

Smith River, CA 95567

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