DEE-NI' NUU-WEE-YA'
NEE-SAN NUM-NII~-MA~S (October) 2025 - Volume 32, Issue 10
Protecting and restoring Tolowa wetlands
The Nation's Natural Resources Environmental Division has launched a Wetland Program with a clear mission: to preserve, protect, enhance, restore, and manage wetlands within Tolowa homelands and across the Smith River Watershed. Wetlands are at the heart of the Tolowa Dee-niꞌ ancestral lands, providing clean water, abundant
habitat, and cultural resources that have sustained life for generations. These landscapes act as nature’s filters and buffers, recharging groundwater, protecting shorelines, storing carbon, and offering safe zones against floods and wildfires.
They are also home to salmon, waterfowl, and countless other species, while offering recreational and cultural opportunities for people. Yet despite their importance, wetlands continue to face growing threats from development, pollution, invasive species, altered water flows, and the impacts of climate change.
Wetland Program Coordinator Dalton Beene has completed advanced technical training that helps him to assess areas such as wastewater ponds, the XVR wetlands and the Yan'-daa-k'vt Slough.
See Wetlands, Page 2
Wetlands
Continued from Page 1
The program is guided by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Core Elements, monitoring and assessment, restoration and protection, water quality standards, and regulatory measures. It also emphasizes two Nation-specific priorities: climate resiliency and community education. This approach ensures that wetlands are cared for not only as ecological resources but also as cultural and community treasures.
The Wetland Program is led by Coordinator Dalton Beene with the support of Tribal Resource Specialist Brittney Ford. Both have completed advanced technical training, including certification in the California Rapid Assessment Method (CRAM) and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Jurisdictional Determination process.
Using these tools, the team is able to evaluate hydrology, plant and animal communities, and physical attributes that indicate how well wetlands are functioning. Already, assessments have been completed at the wastewater ponds and the XVR wetland, and a full CRAM survey is underway at Yan'-daa-k'vt.
"This ecologically vital and culturally significant site holds great promise for restoration, with a long-term goal of returning it to its historical state as a mosaic coastal forested wetland," said Beene. "We aim to revive its ability to support wildlife, improve water quality, store carbon, and provide resources for the Tolowa Dee-niꞌ people,"
The work is just beginning, but the vision is clear: through careful monitoring, adaptive management, and collaboration with partners and the community, the program is laying the foundation for lasting wetland protection.
"More than just a scientific effort, the Wetland Program is about cultural resilience, ecological stewardship, and ensuring that these vital ecosystems continue to sustain life in the Smith River Watershed for generations to come," said Beene.
TOP: The wetland area at 'Ee-chuu-'e' (Lake Tolowa) is not only a rich ecological area but holds significant cultural and historical treasures.
ABOVE: The wetlands' ecosystem hosts a rich variety of fauna and wildlife, including this frog found submerged in duck weed.
LEFT: Brittney Ford, resources specialist for the Nation's Natural Resources Division, works in the field studying hydrology, plant and animal communities. Doing so helps the Wetland Program monitor how well the ecosystem is functioning.
All Tribal 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
Human Resources Director, Jeff Davis (707)487-9255, ext. 1213, jeff.davis@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
Construction of the new addition to the Nation's Head Start building continues into the fall. When it is completed in early 2026, the facility will serve children ages 0-3.
DAY MIN’-NE’
Dee-ni' Night celebration...............................................................................................4
Dee-ni' Day highlights...................................................................................................6
Stick Games competition..............................................................................................8
Kelp Guardians get SCUBA certified............................................................................9
Campaign
Citizens appointed to Gaming Commission................................................................12
Prescribed
Setting of the Stones Ceremony.................................................................................17 Birthdays.....................................................................................................................22
Nee-san num-nii~-ma~s (October) 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 www.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.
DEE-NI’ NIGHT CELEBRATION
Honoring our Nation's elders, veterans and graduates
Shu' shaa nin-la to all our Tribal households for coming out and making our annual Dee-ni' Night on Friday, Sept. 5, an epic event! It was a special night for honoring our elders and veterans and celebrating the academic accomplishments of our young people.
More than 300 people attended the annual event, which began with a traditional prayer and a song, followed by a welcome by the Nation's Executive Director Troy Ralstin, and introduction of Tribal Council members. A moment of silence was held for Tribal Citizens we lost this year.
“Each year, we look forward to bringing together Tribal households to honor our
elders, beloved veterans, and talented Tribal graduates,” Ralstin said. “I truly enjoy seeing all of you here tonight celebrating our cultural and one another.”
Prior to dinner, dancers participated in sharing a traditional Nee-dash.
After dinner, the night’s program recognized the Nation’s 96 elders that are 70 years and older, including eldest elders Ina Chapman, 93, and William “Bill” Richards Sr., 89.
A total of 56 U.S. Veteran and present military Tribal Citizens were recognized for their service to the United States Armed Forces.
The academic recognition part of
the program included 26 eighth grade graduates, 32 high school graduates and 86 post-secondary graduates. Graduates in attendance were invited to the stage where they receive handshakes from Tribal Council members and received a necklace, gift, and certificate of recognition.
The event concluded with recognition of four youth (ages 16-24) who participated in the Tribal Corps Tee-ne Na'sr-dvtlhnvsh (Pathways to Workplace) Program. Participants engaged in stewardship and conservation projects with the goal of gaining skills and experience that will help them in their future educational endeavors.
DEE-NI’ DAY HIGHLIGHTS
18th annual celebration of our culture
Hundreds of Tribal Citizens, community members and visitors joined the Nation in celebrating of our culture and traditions during the 18th Annual Dee-ni' Day at Howonquet Hall Community Center in Smith River on Saturday, Sept. 6.
There were more than 90 vendors at the event with many people enjoying the food, shopping, and various cultural demonstrations and activities. The traditional stick games attracted a large crowd and players of all ages from various regional Tribes. People sampled traditional sand bread, watched a regalia showcase, and participated in shell dice games, men’s gambling, and horseshoes. Special guest Kansas Begaye, a Native American recording artist and motivational speaker from the Navajo Nation, delighted the crowd with her presentation entitled " Signing the Seeds of Future: Leadership Through Native Songs and Stories."
“The day was a resounding success due in large part to the dedication and planning of the Nation's staff,” said Emily Reed, Director of Administrative Service. “It was a fulfilling experience for the public and our tribal community. Thank you to everyone who participated and made this event a memorable celebration."
Art Show Winners
Youth Contemporary
1.Levi Webber
2.Marlee Reed
3.Emma Rhea
Youth Traditional
1.Tee-me Reed
2.Dawson Webber
3.Davina Dillard
Adult Contemporary
1.Jalea Aubrey
2.Leslie Payne
3.Autinayea Bommelyn
Adult Traditional
1.Rudy Lopez
2.Nicole Webber
3.Emily Reed Davina Dillard for artwork entitled "Baby Rattle."
Na'-dvtlh-delh 2025
Dee-ni' Day
Stick Games
The traditional Na'-detlh-delh (stick games) at our Annual Dee-ni' Day on Sept. 6 attracted a large crowd and players of all ages from various regional Tribes. Competing teams hit the beach to battle for bragging rights and cash prizes.
The games, held on Dat-naa-svt beach, below the Howonquet Hall Community Center, is a strenuous sport for men and women that combines the strength and agility of wrestling and rugby with the quick action of field hockey. Game play can get rough, with players tackling or wrestling one another to the ground.
Tolowa Divers monitoring our kelp forests
As part of the Nation's Marine Division’s Ghvtlh-k'vsh shu'-srnelh-'i~ (Kelp Guardians) grant project, with project partner Reef Check, staff is quickly achieving the SCUBA certifications needed to monitor and restore kelp forests in Tolowa ancestral territory.
"We recently completed four dives: two in the river and two in the ocean, towards our Advanced Open Water certification," said Rosa Laucci, Marine Division manger and marine biologist. "It’s a lot of hard work, but we loved it and saw some incredible things. Once through all the certifications, we’ll be able to monitor our own kelp beds and other offshore resources."
The program was spurred by the recent decline of California’s kelp forests, which affects the cultural lifeways and health of the Nation. Other partners include Cal Poly Humboldt Sea Grant California, Sunken Seaweed Humboldt and NAS Food Sovereignty Lab & Traditional Ecological Knowledges Institute.
The work often engages Indigenous youth in kelp restoration projects and workshops. This year, the Rou Dalagarr Food Sovereignty Lab enlisted the help of Cal Poly Humboldt students to join the Kelp Guardians internship program. Students complete community-informed research projects with Tribal communities that support kelp restoration and resilience.
According to Laucci, these practices can serve as a template for other Indigenous communities that want to develop culturally relevant kelp forest monitoring and restoration within ancestral territories.
The divers in training include: Rosa Laucci, Race Richards, Mason Lehr, Nant'svn Jones-Scott, and Jodi Martinez (Kelp Guardian program staff).
Ad awareness campaign spotlights CFW services
The Nation's Community and Family Wellness Department on Oct. 1 launched a new advertising campaign to bring awareness to the various services available to Tribal Citizens. The effort includes digital ads displayed on multiple screens inside and outside Crescent City's Tsunami Lanes bowling alley as well as on the Nation's website and social media channels.
"We chose to share our message at the bowling alley because we believe it is a fantastic venue for connecting with our community," said Adrian Lopez, CFW's Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Prevention Specialist. "Many local families regularly visit or drive by the bowling alley in Crescent City. By selecting a location that is both enjoyable and familiar, we aim to engage families and individuals, inspiring them to discover more about our services and events."
Family Services
Child Welfare Assistance Programs offer a comprehensive range of services designed to protect and support Indian children and their families. Protective and Advocacy Services are dedicated to safeguarding Indian children who are at risk of abuse or neglect. Family and Community Services provide case management and community support to Tribal members, Native American children, and families facing the risks of domestic violence or child abuse and neglect. These services include early intervention, treatment, case management, referrals, parent training, education, and social assessments.
The Indian Child Welfare Act Services offer case management and advocacy specifically for Tolowa Dee-ni' Nation children who have experienced abuse or neglect and are currently in state custody. The primary goal
is to advocate for these children and their families in court while ensuring the state's compliance with the Indian Child Welfare Act.
Child Protective Services (CPS) deliver a wide range of services to Tribal members and Native American families and children at risk of abuse or neglect. These services encompass social and environmental assessments, direct and indirect support, foster care training and licensing, coordination of treatment for abused or neglected children, case planning and management, and other identified services.
The Foster Care Certification, Recruitment, and Training program focuses on certifying, recruiting, and training foster care providers, aiming to attract and retain Native American foster and relative homes for children.
Self-Sufficiency
The Tolowa Dee-ni' Nation offers several programs to support its citizens. Burial Assistance provides a maximum of $3,500 per citizen. Medical Assistance, available to those enrolled for at least a year, covers medical travel and equipment up to $750 yearly, with travel reimbursements of $75 for 50-199 miles and $150 for 200+ miles one-way. Hospitalization support offers $100 per day for a minimum stay of three consecutive days, capped at $1,000 annually, requiring a discharge summary.
Consecutive Treatment addresses life-threatening conditions like cancer and requires a treatment plan, available once a year. The Elder Emergency program provides up to $500 annually for emergencies threatening life, health, or property at the primary residence. General Assistance promotes employment through an Individual Service Plan, available for three months each year, excluding those on SSI or TANF/CalWORKS, and may involve drug testing and home visits to confirm residency.
Victim Services
The Victim Services program of the Community & Family Wellness Department at the Tolowa Dee-ni' Nation collaborates with communities to improve access to domestic violence and sexual assault services. This program is available to any registered tribal member who has experienced such incidents or wishes to learn more about them. Additionally, the program extends its services to Native American children, elders, and other vulnerable adults.
Eligible individuals include registered Native men, women, or children, victims
with a registered Native child or children, victims with a registered Native abuser, or any combination of these criteria. These individuals must reside within the Tolowa Dee-ni' Nation’s five service areas, which include Del Norte County, Humboldt County, Curry County, Coos County, and Josephine County.
The services offered by the program include temporary lodging, which may involve shortterm motel stays or campsites with camping supplies provided by the program. They also offer emergency assistance for domestic violence and sexual assault situations, emergency supplies such as food, water, and clothing, and referrals to one-onone peer counseling.
Relocation assistance is available both in-state and out-of-state. Cultural healing methodologies are part of the support offered, along with guidance for victims navigating tribal and state court systems. Additionally, the program provides victim court advocacy and engages in community education and outreach.
Wellness Services
The Wellness Division is dedicated to empowering Native American communities by providing crucial services to help individuals overcome substance abuse issues. Participants gain invaluable insights and support on their recovery journey through group sessions led by experienced alcohol and drug abuse counselors.
In addition to these essential services, the division offers a Tribal Home Visiting program designed to support families with
children aged five and under, including expectant parents. This program serves as a comprehensive resource hub, offering housing assistance, guidance on child development milestones, preparation for school readiness, and transportation for medical appointments.
The division provides tailored mental health counseling to address the unique needs of the community, ensuring a holistic approach to mental well-being.
TANF Services
The primary goals of the Tolowa Dee-ni' Nation's TANF Program focus on providing
assistance and services designed to stabilize families and aid them in achieving their objectives. One key aspect is enhancing the employability of participating families through a variety of services. Additionally, the program aims to deliver educational and supportive services to youth and families to prevent and reduce the occurrence of out-of-wedlock pregnancies. Another important goal is to promote and nurture the stability and well-being of participating families by actively engaging them in various available services.
For eligible families, the Tolowa Dee-ni' Nation's TANF
Program offers a range of services, including monthly cash assistance, supportive services, and transitional services. The program also provides coordination with other programs, child care assistance, and opportunities for participation in tribal work activities. Services are for Tolowa Dee-ni' Nation tribal citizens.
This comprehensive approach ensures that families receive the support they need to overcome challenges and work towards self-sufficiency. By integrating cultural values and community resources, the program not only addresses immediate needs but also builds long-term resilience.
Three Tribal Citizens named to Gaming Commission
The Tolowa Dee-ni' Nation Tribal Council in September selected three Tribal Citizens to serve as commissioners on the newly created Tribal Gaming Commission.
The Council, via a resolution presented at the Sept. 11 council meeting, approved the appointment of Norene Darnell, William Fender Jr., and Kara Brundin-Miller. Each will serve three-year terms.
The Tribal Gaming Commission that oversees all Class II and Class III gaming activities on the Nation’s Indian lands in accordance with the gaming code. The three commissioner positions consist of a chairperson, vice-chairperson and an associate commissioner. The commission will generally meet formally at least once a month.
To be eligible to serve on the commission, candidates must be at least 25 years of age and a U.S. citizen and have knowledgeable in some of the following areas: finance, accounting, management, legal, business, governmental regulation, Tribal policy, law, public administration, gaming operations, management and regulation. Preference is given to enrolled Tribal Citizens.
For more information about the Gaming Commission, contact the Nation's recording secretary at 707-487-9255 or email recording. secretary@tolowa.com.
Prescribed burns planned for Redwoods
The Nation, in cooperation with California State Parks, CAL FIRE, and other partners, are planning to begin a series of prescribed burns in Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park, Humboldt Redwoods State Park, and Sinkyone Wilderness State Park in September through November. Smoke and flames may be visible from Highway 197 near Jedediah Smith Redwoods, Mattole Road in Humboldt Redwoods, and Briceland Road in Sinkyone Wilderness.
The burns are designed to reduce the encroachment of conifers into prairies, reducing fuels loads in the forests and decreasing the likelihood of catastrophic wildfire. These burns are part of an on-going management program designed to maintain prairie grasslands, enhance forage for wildlife, control exotic plant species, and return fire as a natural process to the parks, and maintain our old growth forests.
California State Parks is collaborating with local tribes to reintroduce fire as a land management tool, while also supporting revitalization of traditional cultural practices on our ancestral lands.
Redwood National and State Parks will initiate their prescribed burn season in the Bald Hills area in late September, including Ganns Prairie, Upper Dolason, Lower Dolason, Lower Elk Camp, Upper Lyons, Lower Lyons, and South Boundary.
Congratulations Graduate!
Ava Khione Frantz
Ava Khione Frantz, daughter of John and Candace Frantz, graduated from the eight grade this summer and will continue her education via home school.
Frantz was born in Salem, Oregon and moved to Crooked River Ranch, Oregon, at the age of 4. Her ancestors include Chi Met, Sarah Payne, Hulda Payne, Huldt Marie Woolfolk, Coleen Frantz and John Frantz.
Her interests include snow skiing, which she has done since she was 2 years old. She practices karate at High Desert Sha-lin Kempo and is currently an assistant-intraining at her Dojo. She has placed first in sparing (making motions of attack and defense with fist, arms and legs) two years in a row.
She works at her family-run business, Great Basin Knife Company, where she has learned to flint knap obsidian knife blades and make decorative handles from antlers and bone.
Frantz likes to go fishing in Alaska and has gone there for the past 15 years, learning how to fillet salmon and halibut.
Tribal healing to wellness court open to youth
Are you seeking wellness and healing for your youth? Do you know a youth struggling with frequent absences or drug or alcohol abuse?
The Tolowa Dee-ni' Nation is offering youth an opportunity to participate in our Tribal Juvenile Healing to Wellness Court.
The court is a collaborative legal and therapeutic program for youth ages 11-17 who are engaged in alcohol- and drug-related behaviors such as truancy and other nonviolent offenses.
It is an intensive supervised program with judicial interaction throughout the 52-week program. Referrals come from parents and partnerships within our community that interact with our youth.
There is a sanction and incentive program to help encourage and promote completion of the program as the youth work with our various partners.
To learn more about the program, contact Tribal Youth Project Coordinator Felicity Lopez at felicity. lopez@tolowa.gov or call 707-487-9255, ext. 1161.
Motions for June 26, 2025
COUNCIL MOTIONS
Sega Sammy Creation USA Inc.
Master Agreement with a Limited Waiver of Sovereign Immunity.
WEE-NAA-TR'AA-'AA-DVN NUYNII~-'A~ (APPROVE AGENDA):
M/S/C (Sullivan/Thompson) 5-0-1
Motion to approve agenda with the addition of Agenda Item 202-486 L7E Resolution 2025-19 Master Agreement with Sega Sammy to lease three (3) slot machines; Agenda Item 2025-474 Resolution 2025-20 request to apply for TNGF Impact grant; Agenda Item 2025-493 Contract CT-2514-1573 with Lyn Craig LLC.
'Ay~: Sullivan, Thompson, Giovannetti, O'Connell, Wait; Duu: 0; Xwee-la: Boardman
WAA-'AA-DVN NUY-NII~-'A~ (CONSENT AGENDA):
M/S/C (Wait/Thompson) 5-01 Motion to adopt the consent agenda including: Contract CT2560 – 1447 Berkey Williams LLP; Contract CT-2560-1565 Hobbs, Straus, Dean & Walker, LLP; Contract CT 2560-1566, Wiseman Law Corporation; Contract 25601556, Rothstein Donatelli, LLP; Budget Modification for Fiscal Fund 712; Contract CT-2412-1351 AMR INC - Mod #3; Emergency meeting minutes 6.5.25
'Ay~: Sullivan, Thompson, Giovannetti, O'Connell, Wait; Duu: 0; Xwee-la: Boardman
NA'-LEE-DVN (LUCKY 7 ENTERPRISE):
M/S/C (Giovannetti/Thompson) 5-0-1 Motion to approve Resolution 2025-19 Approval of
'Ay~: Sullivan, Thompson, Giovannetti, O'Connell, Wait; Duu: 0; Xwee-la: Boardman
XAA-'VTLH-SRII-DVN (COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT & PLANNING):
M/S/C (Wait/Steinruck) 6-0-1
Motion to approve Resolution 2025-20 Application for Tribal Nation Grant Fund Impact Grant.
'Ay~: Sullivan, Thompson, Steinruck, Giovannetti, O'Connell, Wait; Duu: 0; Xwee-la: Boardman
M/S/C (O'Connell/Sullivan) 5-01 Motion to approve with edits Resolution 2025-18 7 Parcel Fee-to-Trust Indemnity Agreement with the Department of the Interior Bureau of Indian Affairs.
'Ay~: Sullivan, Thompson, Steinruck, O'Connell, Wait; Duu: 0; Xwee-la: Boardman
M/S/C (Sullivan/Thompson) 5-0-1
Motion to approve Contract CT2514-1573 with Lyn Craig, LLC. in an amount not to exceed $11,250.
'Ay~: Sullivan, Thompson, Steinruck, O'Connell, Wait; Duu: 0; Xwee-la: Boardman
NUU-DA'-YE'-DVN (COMMUNITY AND FAMILY WELLNESS):
M/S/C (Wait/O'Connell) 5-0-1
Motion to approve Fiscal Year (FY) 2026-2028 Child Care Development Fund (CCDF) Plan Submission for approval.
'Ay~: Sullivan, Thompson, Steinruck, O'Connell, Wait; Duu: 0; Xwee-la: Boardman
LHEE-WII-DVN (JUSTICE):
M/S/C (Thompson/O'Connell) 5-01 Motion to approve submitting the grant application to the Humboldt Area Foundation up to an amount of $100k.
'Ay~: Sullivan, Thompson, Steinruck, O'Connell, Wait; Duu: 0; Xwee-la: Boardman
Motions for July 10, 2025
WEE-NAA-TR'AA-'AA-DVN NUYNII~-'A~ (APPROVE AGENDA):
M/S/C (O'Connell/Steinruck) 5-0-1
Motion to approve agenda with agenda item 2025-423 agreement with California Middle Mile project to be tabled
'Ay~: Sullivan, Thompson, Steinruck, O'Connell, Wait; Duu: 0; Xwee-la: Boardman
WAA-'AA-DVN NUY-NII~-'A~ (CONSENT AGENDA):
M/S/C (O'Connell/Wait) 5-0-1
Motion to adopt the consent agenda including: Agenda 2025507: Regular meeting minutes for 6.12.25; Agenda 2025-512: Tribal Collection Loan Request #43; Agenda 2025-513: Tribal Collection Loan Request #44
'Ay~: Sullivan, Thompson, Steinruck, O'Connell, Wait; Duu: 0; Xwee-la: Boardman
YUU-NVLH-TS'IT-DVN (EDUCATION):
M/S/C (Sullivan/Steinruck) 5-0-1
Motion to approve Contract CT2271-1136 Mod #2 with Kelly Potts dba All Are We Water Collective (AAW) in an amount not to exceed $9k.
'Ay~: Sullivan, Thompson, Steinruck, O'Connell, Wait; Duu: 0; Xwee-la: Boardman
M/S/C (Wait/Sullivan) 5-0-1 Motion to approve Contract CT-24711392 Mod #1 with Rory McCain in an amount not to exceed $30k.
'Ay~: Sullivan, Thompson, Steinruck, O'Connell, Wait; Duu: 0; Xwee-la: Boardman
M/S/C (O'Connell/Steinruck) 5-0-1
Motion to approve Contract CT2565-1567 with Nants'vn JonesScott in an amount not to exceed $2,900.
'Ay~: Sullivan, Thompson, Steinruck, O'Connell, Wait; Duu: 0; Xwee-la: Boardman
M/S/C (O'Connell/Thompson) 5-01 Motion to approve Resolution 2025-22 Request for Budget Modification and Carryover for Headstart Grant 90CI010058.
'Ay~: Sullivan, Thompson, Steinruck, O'Connell, Wait; Duu: 0; Xwee-la: Boardman
NVN-NVST-'AA~-TA (NATURAL RESOURCES):
M/S/C (Thompson/Steinruck) 5-01 Motion to approve posting the 30-day tribal citizen commenting period on the Chapter 4 Harvest Title lhuk protocols.
'Ay~: Sullivan, Thompson, Steinruck, O'Connell, Wait; Duu: 0; Xwee-la: Boardman
M/S/C (Sullivan/O'Connell) 5-0-1
Motion to approve chairperson signature on a funding agreement between the Nation and Friends of the Dunes in the amount of
$6,000.
'Ay~: Sullivan, Thompson, Steinruck, O'Connell, Wait; Duu: 0; Xwee-la: Boardman
M/S/C (Sullivan/Wait) 5-0-1 Motion to approve Resolution 2025-23 authorizing the chairpersons signature upon legal review, for the Nation to enter into a funding agreement with the State of California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) for Oil Spill Preparedness and Response and to accept $10k in funding.
'Ay~: Sullivan, Thompson, Steinruck, O'Connell, Wait; Duu: 0; Xwee-la: Boardman
XAA-'VTLH-SRII-DVN (COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT & PLANNING):
M/S/C (Thompson/Wait) 5-0-1 Motion to approve chairperson signature on letter authorizing the use of total tribal enrollment for O-LINK 78.
'Ay~: Sullivan, Thompson, Steinruck, O'Connell, Wait; Duu: 0; Xwee-la: Boardman
M/S/C (Sullivan/Wait) 5-0-1 Motion to approve with the modification of the Nation's name the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) for the O-Link 78.
'Ay~: Sullivan, Thompson, Steinruck, O'Connell, Wait; Duu: 0; Xwee-la: Boardman
M/S/C (Thompson/Sullivan) 5-0-1 Motion to approve Resolution 2025-21 for Administration for Native Americans Social and Economic Development Strategies (ANA-SEDS) grant application.
'Ay~: Sullivan, Thompson, Steinruck, O'Connell, Wait; Duu: 0; Xwee-la: Boardman
M/S/C (Steinruck/Sullivan) 5-0-1 Motion to approve Contract CT-2514-1575 with Akana, Inc. to develop the Economic Development Administration (EDA) grant application for Xaa-wan'-k'wvt Village & Resort (XVR) in an amount not to exceed $29,820.
'Ay~: Sullivan, Thompson, Steinruck, O'Connell, Wait; Duu: 0; Xwee-la: Boardman
M/S/C (Wait/O'Connell) 4-0-2 Motion to approve Contract CT-2551-1577 with Strahm's Sealcoat & Striping in an amount not to exceed $7,179.
'Ay~: Sullivan, Thompson, O'Connell, Wait;
Duu: Steinruck; Xwee-la: Boardman
MII~-XVSH-XAY CH'EE-NVK (ADMINISTRATION):
M/S/C (Wait/Thompson) 5-0-1 Motion to approve chairperson to execute the Tribal
Participation form to authorize the Nation to participate in the "Multi-Defendant Settlements" as a participating Tribe.
'Ay~: Sullivan, Thompson, Steinruck, O'Connell, Wait; Duu: 0; Xwee-la: Boardman
Welcome new Tolowa Dee-ni' Nation staff
Delfie Danner Health and Disabilities Coordinator (interim) Head Start
Lacey Lopez-Martinez Employee Relations Tech Human Resources (formerly Natural Resources)
Eric Stansbury Classroom Aide Education Department
Jake Geremia Administrative Assistant Tribal Gaming Commission
Shane Rexford, Janitor, Head Start (not pictured)
Employment opportunities
Tolowa Dee-ni' Nation Office
Alcohol & Drug Counselor (CFW) – Full Time
Home Visiting Program Coordinator (CFW)- Full Time
Homelessness Intervention Coordinator (CFW)- Full Time
Peer Support Technician- (CFW)- Full Time
TTCW Project Coordinator (CFW)- Full Time
Utility Operator 1 (Community & Development)- Full Time
Utility Operator Trainee (Community & Development)- Full Time
Controller (Fiscal) – Full Time
Head Start Manager (Education) – Full Time
Head Start Teacher (Education) – Full Time
Health & Disabilities Coordinator (Education) – Full Time
Language Specialist (Education) – Full Time
Tribal Resources Field Technician (Natural Resources) – Full Time
Lucky 7 Casino
Custodian (Graveyard) – Part Time
Dishwasher – Part Time
Hotel Front Desk Supervisor – Full Time
Hotel Housekeeping Supervisor – Full Time
Maintenance Worker – Full Time
Security Officer – Part 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.
Haley Abbott
Cody Adams
Damian Allen
Cort Arlandson
Edgar Atrian
Angel Baca
Gerald Balcom
Alexia Boatsman
Allen Bommelyn
Marvin Boome
Mckayla Bravo
Jacquelynn Brown
Monica Calvillo
Garrett Campbell
Brittany Carns
Caleb Chapman
Ranell Chisman
Courtney Chisman
Patricia Clayton
Harley Coplin
Madison Cox
Michael Curry
Julia Cutright
Kelsey Davis
Kalea Davis
Sydney Dean
Adrian Diaz-Cain
Michael Dobrec
Trent Dobrec
Laurie Doyle
Alex Eastman
Colin Ekman
Raven Evanow
MAA~-XUSLH-GHALH
Laura Fox
Coleen Frantz
Mckinley Frantz
Emilee Frase
Makayla Fullam
Te Naya Fuller
Tarysa Geedey
Mason Glerup
Drake Goodlin
Jadyn Gorbet
Jacalyn Gorbet
Bernadine Guerrero
Vickie Hall
Joseph Halverson
Brigette Hatter
George Hinshaw
Gabrielle Hodges
Paisleigh Hodges
Easton Hodges
Daniel Honnies
Olivia Hooper
Tyler Hostler
Leiona Hostler
William Hurt
Rayden Husted
Kenneth Hutsell
Keeanna Idica
Rachelle Isham
Tyler James
River James
Robert Johnson
Reilly Johnson-Baltodano
John Jonesburg
Kasandra Kamisky
Michelle Keeter
Brooklyn Kelly
Aubrey Felix-Fender-Ramirez
Tamyra Finigan
Kaitlyn Finigan
Nicholi Fletcher
Oren Fouts
Merrick Fouts
Dorothy Kendrix
Zahra Kennedy
Deborah Kirby
Heather Kliever-Turpin
Keegan Larson
Ember Leddy
Tanner Lemmon
Reginald Loftin
Regin Loftin
Kerri Lopez
Ryan Lopez
Cooper Lopez
Finnley Lopez
Noah Lopez-Ferrer
Charlotte MacKay
Faith Mahan
Julia Martin
Tucker May
Donald Maynard
Jade Maynard
Ethan McCallum
Savanna McGuire
Angel McKenzie
Sandy Melton
Kayden Mitchell
Justin Murrell
Abel Narvaez
Betty Netcher
Wesley Netcher
Gregory Netcher
Jonathan Netcher
Amanda O'Connell
Dee Anna Olson
Archer O'Reilley
Muronica Owen
Madisyn Pavola
Herbert Payne
Deborah Payne
Derek Payne
Brayden Payne
Jessica Petty
Kelly Petty
Lila Reid-Martin
Jaycob Remington
Tristan Reynoso
Lisa Richards
Jonathan Richards
Kevin Richards
Brennan Richards
Neena Richards
Amber Ridders
Drew Roberts
Brayden Roberts
Chag-Amin Romannose-Jones
Abigail Rook
Ryhatt Rook
Stephen Rule
Neno Salcedo Moreno
Jessica Salmans
Gregory Samuelsen
Henry Sanderson
Sri-Nic Sanford
Marc Schell
Stephanie Sells
Tiffany Sesher
Aundriea Sesher-Lindke
Kadence Simpson
T'K'Ey-Roh Smith
Travis Sossaman
Jett Sprague
Auryonna Stepro
Daniel Thompson
Winona Thornton
Conrad Travis
Michaelangelo Tribur
Hylan Verdejo
Evan Vickers
Jonna Weeks
Aaron Wescovich
Shawn Whipple
Thomas White
Thomas White
Wayne Whitehead
John Wilber
Sherria Willburn
Benjamin Wilson
Leonard Wonnacott
Emilee Workman Smith
Kaiya Wright
Brooke Wyatt
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
October 2025
Interested in serving on a Tribal board, commission or committee? Seats are open on the Election Board, Enrollment Committee, and Housing Committee. Fill out an application and send it to recording.secretary@ tolowa.gov or call 707-487-9255.
5:30 p.m. House of Howonquet, Nii~-li~ Room 1st Monday of month
Suggested donations: Elders 55-plus $2 (depending on income) Under 55 $7
Deadline for November newsletter Email submissions to scott.graves@tolowa.gov
Tolowa Dee-ni’ Nation
12801 Mouth of Smith River Rd.
Smith River, CA 95567
