Cowlitz Indian Tribe Cowlitz Indian Tribe S p r I n g 2 0 1 2 N e w s l e t t e r S p r I n g 2 0 1 2 N e w s l e t t e r

YOOYOOLAH!YOOYOOLAH! YOOYOOLAH!YOOYOOLAH!

THE CHAIRMAN’S CORNER THE CHAIRMAN’S CORNER

It took the U.S. government decades to acknowledge the Cowlitz people It took the U.S. government decades to acknowledge the Cowlitz people as an Indian Tribe. Recognition brought the Cowlitz Tribe minimal fed- as an Indian Tribe. Recognition brought the Cowlitz Tribe minimal fed- eral dollars to operate a sovereign tribal government and offer a range of eral dollars to operate a sovereign tribal government and offer a range of social, housing, and cultural services and to receive health care from the social, housing, and cultural services and to receive health care from the Indian Health Services. Our leaders have accomplished a lot with those Indian Health Services. Our leaders have accomplished a lot with those funds already. funds already.

With the announcement in 2002 of our recognition, Chairman John Barnett said, "After all these With the announcement in 2002 of our recognition, Chairman John Barnett said, "After all these years, justice has finally been done. We're not extinct. They are finally recognizing that we've al- years, justice has finally been done. We're not extinct. They are finally recognizing that we've al- ways been here and have always been a historic tribe." After the unsuccessful appeal by the ways been here and have always been a historic tribe." After the unsuccessful appeal by the Quinault Indian Nation, the Interior Department affirmed the earlier decision that acknowl- Quinault Indian Nation, the Interior Department affirmed the earlier decision that acknowl- edged the Cowlitz as a tribe. "It's about 22 years overdue," Barnett said. edged the Cowlitz as a tribe. "It's about 22 years overdue," Barnett said.

The Cowlitz Tribe has faced many challenges, but no challenge could defeat us. The Cowlitz The Cowlitz Tribe has faced many challenges, but no challenge could defeat us. The Cowlitz have shown great strength and determination. We have been gracious to all, taking the high road have shown great strength and determination. We have been gracious to all, taking the high road in memory of our ancestors. in memory of our ancestors.

Throughout history, the Cowlitz Tribe has looked to our land and natural resources to provide Throughout history, the Cowlitz Tribe has looked to our land and natural resources to provide and support essential elements of Native life and culture. The heart of the tribe’s advocacy work and support essential elements of Native life and culture. The heart of the tribe’s advocacy work is the connection with our homeland and natural resources. The Cowlitz Tribe stands as the best is the connection with our homeland and natural resources. The Cowlitz Tribe stands as the best advocate for our homelands and natural resources as we are the true soul of our aboriginal lands. advocate for our homelands and natural resources as we are the true soul of our aboriginal lands. We recovered the Roman Catholic convent, St. Mary's Mission, which was originally known as We recovered the Roman Catholic convent, St. Mary's Mission, which was originally known as the Cowlitz Mission for elders housing. the Cowlitz Mission for elders housing.

We Cowlitz then looked at the tribe's aboriginal territory stretching from Centralia south to the We Cowlitz then looked at the tribe's aboriginal territory stretching from Centralia south to the Columbia River, east to the Cascade Crest and west to the Cathlamet vicinity, for our initial res- Columbia River, east to the Cascade Crest and west to the Cathlamet vicinity, for our initial res- ervation, with a priority being near a population center. The reservation could be anywhere in ervation, with a priority being near a population center. The reservation could be anywhere in that region. We chose the Lewis River area, aboriginal home of the Lewis River Cowlitz for our that region. We chose the Lewis River area, aboriginal home of the Lewis River Cowlitz for our initial reservation on a 151 acre site. This land provides great potential for the future of the initial reservation on a 151 acre site. This land provides great potential for the future of the Cowlitz people. After more than eight years of work and determination, we received approval Cowlitz people. After more than eight years of work and determination, we received approval from the Assistant Secretary of Indian Affairs, Larry Echohawk, on December 23, 2010. from the Assistant Secretary of Indian Affairs, Larry Echohawk, on December 23, 2010.

Opposition to final approval of our reservation has been fierce and determined, however, Cowlitz Opposition to final approval of our reservation has been fierce and determined, however, Cowlitz are not easily beaten. We are opposed by the La Center Card Rooms, Vancouver, Clark County are not easily beaten. We are opposed by the La Center Card Rooms, Vancouver, Clark County and the Grand Rhonde Tribe. It has taken over 150 years to recover our land-base, and we have and the Grand Rhonde Tribe. It has taken over 150 years to recover our land-base, and we have very nearly achieved that long sought land base. The Record of Decision file for the court contains very nearly achieved that long sought land base. The Record of Decision file for the court contains YOOYOOLAH! | 2012 SPRING | 2 YOOYOOLAH! | 2012 SPRING | 2 more than 130,000 pages of supporting documents. The government’s case for their decision to more than 130,000 pages of supporting documents. The government’s case for their decision to give the Cowlitz our long sought reservation is very strong. The opposition’s tactic is to delay the give the Cowlitz our long sought reservation is very strong. The opposition’s tactic is to delay the inevitable, which is affirming the Cowlitz Reservation determination. The schedule is set in feder- inevitable, which is affirming the Cowlitz Reservation determination. The schedule is set in feder- al court, so a decision could be rendered by the end of the year. The strength and persistence of al court, so a decision could be rendered by the end of the year. The strength and persistence of the tribe’s members keeps us going. We had similar opposition in our long struggle for recogni- the tribe’s members keeps us going. We had similar opposition in our long struggle for recogni- tion and we overcame that as well. Salishan-Mohegan has been good partners who have helped tion and we overcame that as well. Salishan-Mohegan has been good partners who have helped us through the fight to establish our reservation. us through the fight to establish our reservation.

As we work through the courts, we are taking steps to prepare infrastructure for our reservation As we work through the courts, we are taking steps to prepare infrastructure for our reservation and building of the Cowlitz Casino. We now have a sewer agreement with the city of La Center. and building of the Cowlitz Casino. We now have a sewer agreement with the city of La Center. We are beginning the planning process to upgrade the freeway interchange that will improve ac- We are beginning the planning process to upgrade the freeway interchange that will improve ac- cess to our reservation. These steps will help us hit the ground running after the court decision. cess to our reservation. These steps will help us hit the ground running after the court decision.

The Cowlitz Tribe has accomplished much in this past year. Our tribal services continue to The Cowlitz Tribe has accomplished much in this past year. Our tribal services continue to grow. Though it is difficult to summarize all of the advancements in our programs, the following grow. Though it is difficult to summarize all of the advancements in our programs, the following highlights provide a sense of services available to the Cowlitz people. highlights provide a sense of services available to the Cowlitz people.

 Services at our clinics in Seattle, Longview, and Vancouver, include preventive medicine,  Services at our clinics in Seattle, Longview, and Vancouver, include preventive medicine, mental health, chemical dependency, and many more. mental health, chemical dependency, and many more.  Cultural events throughout the year.  Cultural events throughout the year.  Transportation provided by Tribal Transit.  Transportation provided by Tribal Transit.  Housing rental and down payment assistance.  Housing rental and down payment assistance.  Home weatherization through Tribal Housing.  Home weatherization through Tribal Housing.  Low income elder housing at St. Mary’s Mission.  Low income elder housing at St. Mary’s Mission.  Senior Nutrition providing meals at St. Mary’s and Longview.  Senior Nutrition providing meals at St. Mary’s and Longview.  Scholarships for our tribal scholars.  Scholarships for our tribal scholars.  Beginning of a Tribal Youth Program  Beginning of a Tribal Youth Program

We will continue to improve services and provide for our tribe for current and future generations. We will continue to improve services and provide for our tribe for current and future generations. If we consider a future with increased resources, our vision for future programming includes the If we consider a future with increased resources, our vision for future programming includes the following possibilities to improve services for our tribe: following possibilities to improve services for our tribe:

 Health care for all tribal members no matter where they live.  Health care for all tribal members no matter where they live.  Education assistance for all.  Education assistance for all.  Housing assistance for all tribal members.  Housing assistance for all tribal members.

Hard work and commitment have built our tribal community. We honor one another and help Hard work and commitment have built our tribal community. We honor one another and help each other. As we move through 2012, we have our whole tribal community pulling together to each other. As we move through 2012, we have our whole tribal community pulling together to win the fight for our reservation. We are thankful for the dedication of our Cowlitz people, our win the fight for our reservation. We are thankful for the dedication of our Cowlitz people, our employees and volunteers, and the Tribal Council. employees and volunteers, and the Tribal Council.

It is an honor to serve as your chairman. It is an honor to serve as your chairman.

All My Relations, All My Relations,

Bill Iyall Bill Iyall

YOOYOOLAH! | 2012 SPRING | 3 YOOYOOLAH! | 2012 SPRING | 3 FROM THE TRIBAL VICE-CHAIR FROM THE TRIBAL VICE-CHAIR

I begin this first newsletter of 2012 as we are just finishing the Cowlitz I begin this first newsletter of 2012 as we are just finishing the Cowlitz Spring Break Kids Camp. This was another great event, with a record Spring Break Kids Camp. This was another great event, with a record turnout of our youth and volunteers. I want to thank all the volunteers turnout of our youth and volunteers. I want to thank all the volunteers and our Youth Board Members: (Patty Kinswa-Gaiser, Cassandra and our Youth Board Members: (Patty Kinswa-Gaiser, Cassandra Sellards-Reck, Debbie Medeiros, Devin Reck, Claudia Tenney, Melody Sellards-Reck, Debbie Medeiros, Devin Reck, Claudia Tenney, Melody Pfeifer, Charity Sabido-Hodges, Steve Kutz, and Lenny Bridges), for Pfeifer, Charity Sabido-Hodges, Steve Kutz, and Lenny Bridges), for making this event such a great success. I also want to thank our Cowlitz Housing Department making this event such a great success. I also want to thank our Cowlitz Housing Department for their continuing support of our youth programs. for their continuing support of our youth programs.

As I write, we continue to wait for the final approval on our reservation. The appeal of our Rec- As I write, we continue to wait for the final approval on our reservation. The appeal of our Rec- ord of Decision is still pending in the Federal Court in Washington DC. On the positive side, ord of Decision is still pending in the Federal Court in Washington DC. On the positive side, the Tribe has negotiated a sewer agreement with the City of La Center for our reservation. Our the Tribe has negotiated a sewer agreement with the City of La Center for our reservation. Our continued meetings with the City of La Center, have paved the way for this historic agreement continued meetings with the City of La Center, have paved the way for this historic agreement with the Cowlitz Tribe. The La Center card roomshave filed an appeal of the sewer agreement in with the Cowlitz Tribe. The La Center card roomshave filed an appeal of the sewer agreement in the Clark County Superior Court. The Cowlitz Tribe was named as a defendant in that lawsuit. the Clark County Superior Court. The Cowlitz Tribe was named as a defendant in that lawsuit. In working with our legal team, we have been dismissed by the Judge from the lawsuit, as we suc- In working with our legal team, we have been dismissed by the Judge from the lawsuit, as we suc- cessfully asserted our Sovereign Immunity rights. We will be assisting the City of La Center as cessfully asserted our Sovereign Immunity rights. We will be assisting the City of La Center as they are defending the agreement in Court and before the Washington State Growth Hearings they are defending the agreement in Court and before the Washington State Growth Hearings Board. Board.

We continue to assert our Sovereignty and our rights as a federally recognized Tribe in many are- We continue to assert our Sovereignty and our rights as a federally recognized Tribe in many are- as. Today, I would like to briefly mention just two of our recent accomplishments. It has taken as. Today, I would like to briefly mention just two of our recent accomplishments. It has taken over a year, but I have been able to work with the Department of Licensing and the Cowlitz over a year, but I have been able to work with the Department of Licensing and the Cowlitz County Auditor, and now all of our Tribal owned vehicles have exempt vehicle plates. This will County Auditor, and now all of our Tribal owned vehicles have exempt vehicle plates. This will save us about fifty dollars a year for each vehicle the Tribe owns. Also, I am working with the save us about fifty dollars a year for each vehicle the Tribe owns. Also, I am working with the Washington State Department of Revenue and local county officials to get additional property Washington State Department of Revenue and local county officials to get additional property tax exemptions on land we own and use for essential government services. This will save the tax exemptions on land we own and use for essential government services. This will save the Tribe thousands of dollars each year. Tribe thousands of dollars each year.

I am looking forward to our next General Council Meeting on June 2, 2012, and hope that as I am looking forward to our next General Council Meeting on June 2, 2012, and hope that as many Cowlitz as possible will attend. The General Council Meeting, the encampment, and the many Cowlitz as possible will attend. The General Council Meeting, the encampment, and the First Salmon Ceremony will again make for a great first weekend in June. First Salmon Ceremony will again make for a great first weekend in June.

While we continue to face challenges, the Cowlitz Tribe is moving forward in so many areas. I While we continue to face challenges, the Cowlitz Tribe is moving forward in so many areas. I continue to be impressed with the knowledge and hard work of our Cowlitz members, Cowlitz continue to be impressed with the knowledge and hard work of our Cowlitz members, Cowlitz family, Cowlitz employees, and Cowlitz friends. History has shown that the Cowlitz have never family, Cowlitz employees, and Cowlitz friends. History has shown that the Cowlitz have never given up or quit, and we never will. As we continue to work hard together, our future is bright. given up or quit, and we never will. As we continue to work hard together, our future is bright.

My best wishes go out to all of our Cowlitz family. As always, it is an honor and privilege to serve My best wishes go out to all of our Cowlitz family. As always, it is an honor and privilege to serve as the elected Vice-Chairman of the Cowlitz Indian Tribe. as the elected Vice-Chairman of the Cowlitz Indian Tribe.

Philip Harju Philip Harju

YOOYOOLAH! | 2012 SPRING | 4 YOOYOOLAH! | 2012 SPRING | 4 TRIBAL COUNCIL VICE-CHAIR TRIBAL COUNCIL VICE-CHAIR

It is an honor to serve the Cowlitz Tribe. I have been assisting wherever It is an honor to serve the Cowlitz Tribe. I have been assisting wherever need for many years, and plan to do so for many more years. Volunteer- need for many years, and plan to do so for many more years. Volunteer- ing gives a person so much satisfaction, feelings of accomplishment, and ing gives a person so much satisfaction, feelings of accomplishment, and pride to be a part of tribal meetings and cultural gatherings. pride to be a part of tribal meetings and cultural gatherings.

Watching the younger people grow into adults; take an interest in their Watching the younger people grow into adults; take an interest in their heritage is such a joy. Combining the Elders and Youth results in all heritage is such a joy. Combining the Elders and Youth results in all learning many things. It is fabulous to watch them interact during the learning many things. It is fabulous to watch them interact during the youth camps. youth camps.

The youth Program is flourishing under the experienced youth board. I have been the chair of the The youth Program is flourishing under the experienced youth board. I have been the chair of the youth board since we were formed, being successful only because of the strong people on the youth board since we were formed, being successful only because of the strong people on the board. If anyone wants to get involved as a volunteer, contact any the tribal office. board. If anyone wants to get involved as a volunteer, contact any the tribal office.

We look forward to many exciting things in the near future! We look forward to many exciting things in the near future!

I have been on tribal council for 9 years, health board for many, many years, pow wow committee, I have been on tribal council for 9 years, health board for many, many years, pow wow committee, and the youth board. and the youth board.

If anyone has any questions please feel free to contact me at any time. Office phone 360-864- If anyone has any questions please feel free to contact me at any time. Office phone 360-864- 7006, home phone 360-864-4658 7006, home phone 360-864-4658

Thank you! Thank you!

Patty Kinswa-Gaiser Patty Kinswa-Gaiser

GRANTS GRANTS By Jan Healy, Grant Writer By Jan Healy, Grant Writer

Since the last newsletter, we have had many opportunities for our grant Since the last newsletter, we have had many opportunities for our grant applications. With the 2013 federal budget likely to include reductions in applications. With the 2013 federal budget likely to include reductions in grant funding, we will be working closely with the Tribe's departments to grant funding, we will be working closely with the Tribe's departments to create our best possible project proposals. create our best possible project proposals.

Here are some updates: Here are some updates: The Tulalip Tribes awarded us the full amount werequested for a walk-in freezer and interior The Tulalip Tribes awarded us the full amount werequested for a walk-in freezer and interior shelves to store traditional foods, such as salmon, game, and huckleberries. This will allow more shelves to store traditional foods, such as salmon, game, and huckleberries. This will allow more foods to be available to more members of the Tribe throughout the year. The freezer will be set foods to be available to more members of the Tribe throughout the year. The freezer will be set up I the garage at the Longview offices and the Cultural Resources Department staff will manage up I the garage at the Longview offices and the Cultural Resources Department staff will manage its operation. its operation.

Our two grant applications to the Federal Transit Administration were denied, but we hope to Our two grant applications to the Federal Transit Administration were denied, but we hope to fare better this year with our application for operations funding for Tribal Transit. More tribes fare better this year with our application for operations funding for Tribal Transit. More tribes are applying for these competitive grants and the amount that Congress will approve for 2013 are applying for these competitive grants and the amount that Congress will approve for 2013 and beyond remains uncertain. In general, the tribal grants are much more competitive than and beyond remains uncertain. In general, the tribal grants are much more competitive than

YOOYOOLAH! | 2012 SPRING | 5 YOOYOOLAH! | 2012 SPRING | 5 when we first began applying. We will know soon if the state will have any transit grants availa- when we first began applying. We will know soon if the state will have any transit grants availa- ble. ble.

As this newsletter went to the printer, we were still waiting to hear results from several other As this newsletter went to the printer, we were still waiting to hear results from several other grant applications. One, from the Potlatch Fund, would cover some of the considerable costs for grant applications. One, from the Potlatch Fund, would cover some of the considerable costs for the Cowlitz Canoe Family to go on the Intertribal Canoe Journey Paddle to Squaxin Island in July. the Cowlitz Canoe Family to go on the Intertribal Canoe Journey Paddle to Squaxin Island in July. Another Potlatch Fund grant would be for a youth-Elders project. Cowlitz teens would make Another Potlatch Fund grant would be for a youth-Elders project. Cowlitz teens would make gift items at a Teen Camp this fall and learn about Northwest tribes' traditions of generosity and gift items at a Teen Camp this fall and learn about Northwest tribes' traditions of generosity and giving. They would present their gifts to younger youth and to the Elders at a holiday party in giving. They would present their gifts to younger youth and to the Elders at a holiday party in December. December.

Very few grantors will fund tribal language projects if the language is no longer spoken by more Very few grantors will fund tribal language projects if the language is no longer spoken by more than a few people. However, Roy Wilson's work with Chinook Jargon and the high interest in than a few people. However, Roy Wilson's work with Chinook Jargon and the high interest in classes expressed by members of the Tribe led us to apply (a second try) for a small grant from classes expressed by members of the Tribe led us to apply (a second try) for a small grant from Native Languages of the Americas. The grant would pay for printing about 150 copies of Roy's Native Languages of the Americas. The grant would pay for printing about 150 copies of Roy's new compilation dictionary of the Jargon (Wawa) and for flashcards. Roy would teach 18 month- new compilation dictionary of the Jargon (Wawa) and for flashcards. Roy would teach 18 month- ly classes at St. Mary's. Northwest Coast-style woodcarver Duane Pasco, who speaks the Jargon, ly classes at St. Mary's. Northwest Coast-style woodcarver Duane Pasco, who speaks the Jargon, submitted a letter of support and has offered to be a guest teacher. We should hear a decision on submitted a letter of support and has offered to be a guest teacher. We should hear a decision on the grant by early summer. the grant by early summer.

TSUNAMIS/EARTHQUAKES – EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS TSUNAMIS/EARTHQUAKES – EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS By Mike Caso - Tribal Council By Mike Caso - Tribal Council

Once again earthquakes and tsunamis are in the news. Sometimes it is because warning tests are Once again earthquakes and tsunamis are in the news. Sometimes it is because warning tests are happening, or articles explaining the how’s and whys of the debris floating across the Pacific from happening, or articles explaining the how’s and whys of the debris floating across the Pacific from Japan, and what will happen to those places and people along the shoreline. I always get nervous Japan, and what will happen to those places and people along the shoreline. I always get nervous when such things are in the news. They say “Don’t worry,” but why are the powers that be still when such things are in the news. They say “Don’t worry,” but why are the powers that be still telling us about the numerous fault lines that run parallel to the mountain range out to the telling us about the numerous fault lines that run parallel to the mountain range out to the coast? Think of the subduction fault and what will happen when it snaps. Now we hear repeated coast? Think of the subduction fault and what will happen when it snaps. Now we hear repeated siren tests, the Olympic Peninsula going down under for the third time; that the state of Oregon siren tests, the Olympic Peninsula going down under for the third time; that the state of Oregon moved all schools four miles back from the ocean, British Columbia has 10,000 trained personnel moved all schools four miles back from the ocean, British Columbia has 10,000 trained personnel just in case what is not going to happen happens (Oregon and British Columbia are old news why just in case what is not going to happen happens (Oregon and British Columbia are old news why are they being brought up again?). Our county put a tsunami siren at the end of our 1½ mile-long are they being brought up again?). Our county put a tsunami siren at the end of our 1½ mile-long dead end road. Of course there is another thought to all of this and that is the government is still dead end road. Of course there is another thought to all of this and that is the government is still spending stimulus money and needs to have a plausible excuse. It still makes me nervous. spending stimulus money and needs to have a plausible excuse. It still makes me nervous.

As most of you know at every General Council Meeting I have someone put an emergency As most of you know at every General Council Meeting I have someone put an emergency handout on all our chairs. This is not done to alarm anyone but to hopefully make everyone handout on all our chairs. This is not done to alarm anyone but to hopefully make everyone aware of what to have on hand so that our people can be as comfortable as possible when an aware of what to have on hand so that our people can be as comfortable as possible when an emergency happens. Of course we will all probably have crossed over to be with the ancestors by emergency happens. Of course we will all probably have crossed over to be with the ancestors by then, but just in case. We should still be prepared because one never knows. then, but just in case. We should still be prepared because one never knows.

For instance, one winter about ten years back large areas of Clallam County lost power, some for For instance, one winter about ten years back large areas of Clallam County lost power, some for weeks. Remember—no power, no heat. The county could not clear all the snow from the weeks. Remember—no power, no heat. The county could not clear all the snow from the roads. Our neighborhood had four feet of snow. Have you ever made a cook fire in four feet of roads. Our neighborhood had four feet of snow. Have you ever made a cook fire in four feet of snow? Everyone else on our road was using flash lights and lanterns. After four days the cup- snow? Everyone else on our road was using flash lights and lanterns. After four days the cup- boards looked kind of bare. My wife Diana had remembered a previous power outage so we were boards looked kind of bare. My wife Diana had remembered a previous power outage so we were

YOOYOOLAH! | 2012 SPRING | 6 YOOYOOLAH! | 2012 SPRING | 6 almost ready for this one. We had purchased a generator, the kind that will run the microwave, almost ready for this one. We had purchased a generator, the kind that will run the microwave, stovetop, coffee maker and run a couple of space heaters. Don’t forget the fuel! And we had our stovetop, coffee maker and run a couple of space heaters. Don’t forget the fuel! And we had our Emergency Supplies, so we were fairly comfortable. Other county residents were not pre- Emergency Supplies, so we were fairly comfortable. Other county residents were not pre- pared. They were totally taken by surprise and it was a bad winter storm. You see some people pared. They were totally taken by surprise and it was a bad winter storm. You see some people died that winter; some of them were our friends. Sometimes it is not as simple as it seems and died that winter; some of them were our friends. Sometimes it is not as simple as it seems and sometimes it is just a thought. If I am going to be roughing it I want my wife and I to be comfort- sometimes it is just a thought. If I am going to be roughing it I want my wife and I to be comfort- able, warm and toasty. Me with a full tummy of black olives, Salmon, sweet pickles, crackers, able, warm and toasty. Me with a full tummy of black olives, Salmon, sweet pickles, crackers, cheese, Miracle Whip, and my wife with what some people would call “normal food.” cheese, Miracle Whip, and my wife with what some people would call “normal food.”

Do you want to be cold, wet, thirsty, and hungry? Is next winter just going to be winter or the Do you want to be cold, wet, thirsty, and hungry? Is next winter just going to be winter or the next power outage just an outage? It is only an earthquake or a normal tsunami and how long next power outage just an outage? It is only an earthquake or a normal tsunami and how long and how difficult will it be for the Great White Father fix things? That question has proven an- and how difficult will it be for the Great White Father fix things? That question has proven an- swers—and New Orleans is just one. swers—and New Orleans is just one.

TRIBE MARKS TEN YEARS OF PROVIDING HEALTH SERVICES TRIBE MARKS TEN YEARS OF PROVIDING HEALTH SERVICES By Todd Bratton, Health and Human Services By Todd Bratton, Health and Human Services

Even though health care is a federal trust responsibility, the Indian Health Service (IHS) has Even though health care is a federal trust responsibility, the Indian Health Service (IHS) has never been fully funded, and both Tribal and IHS operated health programs have a reputation never been fully funded, and both Tribal and IHS operated health programs have a reputation for being remarkably efficient with their funding. Tribal leaders and citizens should continue to for being remarkably efficient with their funding. Tribal leaders and citizens should continue to fight for full funding of programs, and be proud of what their Tribes are able to do with such lim- fight for full funding of programs, and be proud of what their Tribes are able to do with such lim- ited funding. ited funding. Leading up to federal acknowledgement, there was a lot of initial planning around what the Leading up to federal acknowledgement, there was a lot of initial planning around what the Cowlitz Indian Tribe’s health program would look like. A health services committee was sanc- Cowlitz Indian Tribe’s health program would look like. A health services committee was sanc- tioned by the Tribal Council, and they began working with IHS to design the program. tioned by the Tribal Council, and they began working with IHS to design the program.

When the initial acknowledgment was given in 2000, Congress set aside around $1.3 million an- When the initial acknowledgment was given in 2000, Congress set aside around $1.3 million an- nually to fund the Cowlitz health program. However, after the acknowledgement challenge nually to fund the Cowlitz health program. However, after the acknowledgement challenge wrapped up in 2002, the initial Public Law 643 contract with IHS was far less than expected. wrapped up in 2002, the initial Public Law 643 contract with IHS was far less than expected. IHS notified the Tribe that it would be receiving less than $1 million annually based on pre- IHS notified the Tribe that it would be receiving less than $1 million annually based on pre- acknowledgement enrollment of below 900 members. The Tribe attempted to negotiate this acknowledgement enrollment of below 900 members. The Tribe attempted to negotiate this amount of funding with IHS because Tribal leaders knew that once enrollment was reopened amount of funding with IHS because Tribal leaders knew that once enrollment was reopened that number would at least double. Enrollment had stopped as the acknowledgment process was that number would at least double. Enrollment had stopped as the acknowledgment process was being carried out. being carried out.

The Tribe was unsuccessful in their petitions to IHS, and as expected, enrollment increased dra- The Tribe was unsuccessful in their petitions to IHS, and as expected, enrollment increased dra- matically after final acknowledgement. The end result was that the Tribe was funded only for matically after final acknowledgement. The end result was that the Tribe was funded only for Contract Health Services to be provided in a seven county area including Pierce, King, Thurston, Contract Health Services to be provided in a seven county area including Pierce, King, Thurston, Lewis, Cowlitz, Clark and Skamania counties. Contract Health can pay some health related ex- Lewis, Cowlitz, Clark and Skamania counties. Contract Health can pay some health related ex- penses if all other means of payment have been exhausted. After the increase in enrollment Con- penses if all other means of payment have been exhausted. After the increase in enrollment Con- tract Health was funded at just over $300 per year for each eligible Cowlitz member. tract Health was funded at just over $300 per year for each eligible Cowlitz member.

Realizing that this funding would be inadequate to meet the needs of our members, the Tribe Realizing that this funding would be inadequate to meet the needs of our members, the Tribe began searching for other answers. Meanwhile, the IHS Portland Area Office was managing the began searching for other answers. Meanwhile, the IHS Portland Area Office was managing the Cowlitz Contract Health program, which was not an ideal situation for members or the Tribe. Cowlitz Contract Health program, which was not an ideal situation for members or the Tribe. IHS didn’t start providing services to members until around November, 2002, at which time the IHS didn’t start providing services to members until around November, 2002, at which time the

YOOYOOLAH! | 2012 SPRING | 7 YOOYOOLAH! | 2012 SPRING | 7

Tribe submitted a proposal to take over operation of the program. Tribe submitted a proposal to take over operation of the program.

Also in 2002, the Tribe was awarded a grant from the Area Agency on Aging (AAA) and Patty Also in 2002, the Tribe was awarded a grant from the Area Agency on Aging (AAA) and Patty Kinswa was hired to develop the program. She began serving meals to one Cowlitz and one Kinswa was hired to develop the program. She began serving meals to one Cowlitz and one Muckleshoot Elder at the Longview offices, and traveled to Warm Springs to learn about operat- Muckleshoot Elder at the Longview offices, and traveled to Warm Springs to learn about operat- ing senior nutrition programs. In 2003, 6 more elders began showing up for congregate meals. ing senior nutrition programs. In 2003, 6 more elders began showing up for congregate meals.

After a year of negotiations, the Tribe took over operation of Contract Health Services (CHS) in After a year of negotiations, the Tribe took over operation of Contract Health Services (CHS) in November, 2003. The Tribe made several trips to Washington, DC during this time to seek November, 2003. The Tribe made several trips to Washington, DC during this time to seek funding for providing direct care, but these attempts were unsuccessful. However, the Tribe funding for providing direct care, but these attempts were unsuccessful. However, the Tribe learned that it could reprogram a portion of CHS dollars it to help open a medical clinic. The learned that it could reprogram a portion of CHS dollars it to help open a medical clinic. The Tribe was interested in providing direct services as a way to save limited CHS dollars. The Tribe Tribe was interested in providing direct services as a way to save limited CHS dollars. The Tribe completed a proposal and adjusted the CHS budget for 2004 to help fund the operation of a completed a proposal and adjusted the CHS budget for 2004 to help fund the operation of a medical clinic employing one nurse practitioner that could provide primary medical care. In re- medical clinic employing one nurse practitioner that could provide primary medical care. In re- programming this funding, the Tribe was told it would need to see all enrolled Indians at the fa- programming this funding, the Tribe was told it would need to see all enrolled Indians at the fa- cility, regardless of their ability to pay. The business plan for the clinic showed that the Tribe cility, regardless of their ability to pay. The business plan for the clinic showed that the Tribe would slowly be able to build services by collecting reimbursements from Medicare/Medicaid and would slowly be able to build services by collecting reimbursements from Medicare/Medicaid and private insurance as the number of patients seen in the clinic increased. While waiting for the private insurance as the number of patients seen in the clinic increased. While waiting for the CHS reprogramming to be approved, the Tribe was also awarded a Tribal Management Grant to CHS reprogramming to be approved, the Tribe was also awarded a Tribal Management Grant to start the clinic. The clinic opened in April 2004,with donated exam tables and other medical start the clinic. The clinic opened in April 2004,with donated exam tables and other medical equipment. equipment.

Additionally in 2004, the Tribe started the Tribal Treatment Program to provide outpatient Additionally in 2004, the Tribe started the Tribal Treatment Program to provide outpatient chemical dependency services to adults. The program began with one counselor providing indi- chemical dependency services to adults. The program began with one counselor providing indi- vidual and group counseling. The program was not funded by IHS, rather through reimburse- vidual and group counseling. The program was not funded by IHS, rather through reimburse- ments from Washington State and insurance companies. ments from Washington State and insurance companies.

Also in 2004, the Tribe earned a five-year grant thought the Department of Education, Rehabili- Also in 2004, the Tribe earned a five-year grant thought the Department of Education, Rehabili- tation Services Administration, to provide job preparation and job support services to federally tation Services Administration, to provide job preparation and job support services to federally and state enrolled American Indians and Alaska Natives with disabilities. and state enrolled American Indians and Alaska Natives with disabilities.

The Elders Program was given a van by Tribal Housing during this time and they started trans- The Elders Program was given a van by Tribal Housing during this time and they started trans- porting elders. In 2005, Barb Lindholm was hired as the program’s first full-time cook. porting elders. In 2005, Barb Lindholm was hired as the program’s first full-time cook.

By this time, Tribal Council granted board status to the committee that was planning for health By this time, Tribal Council granted board status to the committee that was planning for health services. When the Health Board’s bylaws were adopted, the Tribal Council passed a resolution services. When the Health Board’s bylaws were adopted, the Tribal Council passed a resolution granting it certain governance responsibilities for the health programs. This was the establish- granting it certain governance responsibilities for the health programs. This was the establish- ment of the Health and Human Services Department and the Health Board. ment of the Health and Human Services Department and the Health Board.

In 2005, the Tribe hired Jim Sherrill as its first Director of Health and Human Services. Sher- In 2005, the Tribe hired Jim Sherrill as its first Director of Health and Human Services. Sher- rill began working with the Health Board and Tribal Council on several issues including plans for rill began working with the Health Board and Tribal Council on several issues including plans for a new clinic building in Longview. a new clinic building in Longview.

Later in 2005, the Tribe earned a small grant from the Office of Crime Victims Advocacy to do Later in 2005, the Tribe earned a small grant from the Office of Crime Victims Advocacy to do outreach and education around sexual assault issues. Debbie Medeiros worked a few hours a outreach and education around sexual assault issues. Debbie Medeiros worked a few hours a week on this project for the first year and in 2006 the program was awarded additional funding. week on this project for the first year and in 2006 the program was awarded additional funding. In 2007, the program was awarded additional funding to hire two more employees to provide In 2007, the program was awarded additional funding to hire two more employees to provide domestic violence and sexual assault advocacy services. domestic violence and sexual assault advocacy services.

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In 2006, the Tribe began providing chemical dependency, vocational rehabilitation, and advocacy In 2006, the Tribe began providing chemical dependency, vocational rehabilitation, and advocacy services in Vancouver, WA at the Center for Community Health building. services in Vancouver, WA at the Center for Community Health building.

In 2007, after several years of planning and structuring, the clinic was awarded a three year ac- In 2007, after several years of planning and structuring, the clinic was awarded a three year ac- creditation from the Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care (AAAHC). The creditation from the Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care (AAAHC). The accreditation was recognition that the Tribe was operating a program in compliance with nation- accreditation was recognition that the Tribe was operating a program in compliance with nation- ally recognized standards for administration, governance, patient care and quality improvement. ally recognized standards for administration, governance, patient care and quality improvement. Around this time, the Tribe was awarded grants from IHS and the Department of Housing and Around this time, the Tribe was awarded grants from IHS and the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to help fund the planning and construction project for the new clin- Urban Development (HUD) to help fund the planning and construction project for the new clin- ic. ic.

The Tribal Treatment program also added services in 2007, by providing chemical dependency The Tribal Treatment program also added services in 2007, by providing chemical dependency counseling to community youth in Cowlitz County. In 2008, the Tribal Treatment and Voca- counseling to community youth in Cowlitz County. In 2008, the Tribal Treatment and Voca- tional Rehabilitation Programs earned their own three year accreditations from the Commission tional Rehabilitation Programs earned their own three year accreditations from the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF). on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF).

In 2009, construction began on a new clinic facility, adjacent to the existing building. The project In 2009, construction began on a new clinic facility, adjacent to the existing building. The project was funded with a $1.3 million grant from IHS (Small Ambulatory Project), and a $500,000 was funded with a $1.3 million grant from IHS (Small Ambulatory Project), and a $500,000 grant from the Department of Housing and Urban Development (Indian Community Develop- grant from the Department of Housing and Urban Development (Indian Community Develop- ment Block Grant). ment Block Grant).

In 2010, the Tribe added Kittitas, Wahkiakum, and Columbia (OR) counties to the Contract In 2010, the Tribe added Kittitas, Wahkiakum, and Columbia (OR) counties to the Contract Health Service Delivery Area (CHSDA). Health Service Delivery Area (CHSDA).

Also during this time, the Tribe was approached by Seattle area tribes and asked to take over op- Also during this time, the Tribe was approached by Seattle area tribes and asked to take over op- eration of the youth and family mental health program operated by the United Indians of All eration of the youth and family mental health program operated by the United Indians of All Tribes Foundation. Without the Cowlitz agreeing to take over operation, the program would Tribes Foundation. Without the Cowlitz agreeing to take over operation, the program would not be able to continue. The Tribe agreed to take over ownership of the program and operate it not be able to continue. The Tribe agreed to take over ownership of the program and operate it as long as it turned out to be financially self-sustaining. Within a year of operations it was clear as long as it turned out to be financially self-sustaining. Within a year of operations it was clear that the program was financially viable. that the program was financially viable.

The Tribe also began negotiations necessary to switch to a Self-Governance form of contracting The Tribe also began negotiations necessary to switch to a Self-Governance form of contracting with IHS. Self-Governance would allow the Tribe to be more slightly more flexible with its with IHS. Self-Governance would allow the Tribe to be more slightly more flexible with its funding from the Indian Health Service. During these negotiations the Tribe also lobbied Con- funding from the Indian Health Service. During these negotiations the Tribe also lobbied Con- gress to fund the Tribe more equitably, at levels that were comparable to other Tribal programs. gress to fund the Tribe more equitably, at levels that were comparable to other Tribal programs. The lobbying efforts paid off when the Tribe was awarded an additional $1.3 million dollars an- The lobbying efforts paid off when the Tribe was awarded an additional $1.3 million dollars an- nually to add needed providers. nually to add needed providers.

Also in 2010, Tribal Elders gifted the name “Pathways to Healing” to the domestic violence and Also in 2010, Tribal Elders gifted the name “Pathways to Healing” to the domestic violence and sexual assault program. The Pathways to Healing Program began operating under that name. sexual assault program. The Pathways to Healing Program began operating under that name.

2011 was the first year of IHS Self-Governance funding for the Cowlitz Indian Tribe. Also, the 2011 was the first year of IHS Self-Governance funding for the Cowlitz Indian Tribe. Also, the Tribal Treatment and Vocational Rehabilitation programs were awarded a second three-year Tribal Treatment and Vocational Rehabilitation programs were awarded a second three-year accreditation early in the year. By fall, 2011, all medical services and Tribal Treatment Program accreditation early in the year. By fall, 2011, all medical services and Tribal Treatment Program were moving in to the new facility. were moving in to the new facility. In 2012, the Health and Human Services program has nearly 60 employees providing a variety of In 2012, the Health and Human Services program has nearly 60 employees providing a variety of services from facilities in Clark, Cowlitz, Lewis, and King Counties. Tribal leadership has been services from facilities in Clark, Cowlitz, Lewis, and King Counties. Tribal leadership has been

YOOYOOLAH! | 2012 SPRING | 9 YOOYOOLAH! | 2012 SPRING | 9 nurturing the growth of the mental health programs, which now consists of nearly a dozen pro- nurturing the growth of the mental health programs, which now consists of nearly a dozen pro- viders offering services in Clark, Cowlitz, and King Counties. viders offering services in Clark, Cowlitz, and King Counties.

2012 is also the first year of a five year strategic plan for the Health and Human Services Depart- 2012 is also the first year of a five year strategic plan for the Health and Human Services Depart- ment. This plan provides a prioritized guide forfuture growth. Goals include development of ment. This plan provides a prioritized guide forfuture growth. Goals include development of infrastructure improvements and creation of business plans for future services. infrastructure improvements and creation of business plans for future services.

It is important to reflect on the last ten years, as the Health Board works to plan for the next ten, It is important to reflect on the last ten years, as the Health Board works to plan for the next ten, and more after that. The last ten years have moved rapidly, and much has been accomplished. and more after that. The last ten years have moved rapidly, and much has been accomplished. Had the Tribe stuck to the original plan with IHS, how much could have been done with little Had the Tribe stuck to the original plan with IHS, how much could have been done with little over $300 for each member? With innovation and persistence, the Cowlitz Indian Tribe has cre- over $300 for each member? With innovation and persistence, the Cowlitz Indian Tribe has cre- ated a program which improves the health of Tribal Members and other American Indians and ated a program which improves the health of Tribal Members and other American Indians and Alaska Natives on a daily basis. Alaska Natives on a daily basis.

2012 SKLOUTWOUT FAMILY REUNION 2012 SKLOUTWOUT FAMILY REUNION

When: Sunday, August 26th, 2012--11am until mid to late afternoon When: Sunday, August 26th, 2012--11am until mid to late afternoon

Where: At Lewis and Clark State Park* South of Chehalis, north of Toledo, WA Where: At Lewis and Clark State Park* South of Chehalis, north of Toledo, WA *Directions from I-5: Take exit # 68 and drive east on Highway 12 approximate- *Directions from I-5: Take exit # 68 and drive east on Highway 12 approximate- ly three miles. At Jackson Highway, turn right, heading south. Continue about ly three miles. At Jackson Highway, turn right, heading south. Continue about three miles to the Lewis and Clark State Park. The park entrance is on the west three miles to the Lewis and Clark State Park. The park entrance is on the west side of Jackson Highway. side of Jackson Highway.

What: Potluck at the KITCHEN SHELTER #1 in the main park What: Potluck at the KITCHEN SHELTER #1 in the main park Please bring your own picnic supplies along with your favorite potluck dishes to Please bring your own picnic supplies along with your favorite potluck dishes to share. Donations will be appreciated for the shelter rental fee. share. Donations will be appreciated for the shelter rental fee.

"Skloutwout" is the Indian name of Lucy Weiser. All Skloutwout descendents are welcome to at- "Skloutwout" is the Indian name of Lucy Weiser. All Skloutwout descendents are welcome to at- tend; the gathering is not limited to Cowlitz tribal members. Please bring pictures, written family tend; the gathering is not limited to Cowlitz tribal members. Please bring pictures, written family histories, and memories to share. histories, and memories to share.

For further information, contact: For further information, contact:

Linda Foley Marsha Williams Linda Foley Marsha Williams 206-364-6757 (home) 253-857-7557 (home) 206-364-6757 (home) 253-857-7557 (home) 206-276-6010 (cell) email: [email protected] 206-276-6010 (cell) email: [email protected] email: [email protected] email: [email protected] In addition: The Washington State Discover Pass is required for parking on Washington state In addition: The Washington State Discover Pass is required for parking on Washington state parks and recreation lands. You can obtain more information about this from the parks and recreation lands. You can obtain more information about this from the website http://wdfw.wa.gov/licensing/discoverpass. website http://wdfw.wa.gov/licensing/discoverpass.

YOOYOOLAH! | 2012 SPRING | 10 YOOYOOLAH! | 2012 SPRING | 10 CITIZEN EMERGENCY RESPONSE TRAINING (CERT) CITIZEN EMERGENCY RESPONSE TRAINING (CERT) By Ken Jarrett By Ken Jarrett

We are developing an Emergency Management Program within our tribe because we must rely We are developing an Emergency Management Program within our tribe because we must rely on the services available in the local communities where we live and work to provide aide in an on the services available in the local communities where we live and work to provide aide in an emergency (such as a flood, earthquake, wind/winter storm, volcano eruption, etc.). However, emergency (such as a flood, earthquake, wind/winter storm, volcano eruption, etc.). However, we can be a part of this aide by creating a corps of tribal members trained to assist in emergencies. we can be a part of this aide by creating a corps of tribal members trained to assist in emergencies. There are Citizen Emergency Response Team (CERT) training classes available throughout the There are Citizen Emergency Response Team (CERT) training classes available throughout the state by both county and local community emergency organizations. These classes will give you state by both county and local community emergency organizations. These classes will give you knowledge to: knowledge to:

 Maintain a high level of home and workplace preparedness.  Maintain a high level of home and workplace preparedness.  Be more informed about risks and vulnerabilities in your community or workplace.  Be more informed about risks and vulnerabilities in your community or workplace.  Become committed to the safety and well-being of your neighbors or coworkers.  Become committed to the safety and well-being of your neighbors or coworkers.  Enhance credibility in neighbor-to-neighbor information, which helps to limit ru-  Enhance credibility in neighbor-to-neighbor information, which helps to limit ru- mors and directs energy toward a positive response. mors and directs energy toward a positive response.  Provide the Tribe with a corps of trained people who can assist the community where  Provide the Tribe with a corps of trained people who can assist the community where you live and work, as well as directly help our tribal members when emergencies hap- you live and work, as well as directly help our tribal members when emergencies hap- pen. pen.

If you are interested in getting CERT training, you can go to the following website to see where If you are interested in getting CERT training, you can go to the following website to see where the next classes in your area will be offered: the next classes in your area will be offered:

http://www.citizencorps.gov/cc/CertIndex.do?reportsForState&cert=&state=WA http://www.citizencorps.gov/cc/CertIndex.do?reportsForState&cert=&state=WA or or http://tinyurl.com/99cert http://tinyurl.com/99cert

You can also sign up to receive the State CERT Newsletter at the above website also. If you You can also sign up to receive the State CERT Newsletter at the above website also. If you would like more information on where CERT training classes are being offered in your area, would like more information on where CERT training classes are being offered in your area, please contact our Emergency Management Coordinator, Ken Jarrett, at (360) 957-4799 or via please contact our Emergency Management Coordinator, Ken Jarrett, at (360) 957-4799 or via email to [email protected]. email to [email protected].

There will be more information on CERT training and other Emergency Management issues at There will be more information on CERT training and other Emergency Management issues at the General Membership Meeting in June 2012. the General Membership Meeting in June 2012.

TRIBAL HOUSING NEWS TRIBAL HOUSING NEWS By Sheryl Bertucci By Sheryl Bertucci Utility Services Utility Services Housing’s Manager of Utilities, Tom Childs has received the prestigious award of “Waste Water Housing’s Manager of Utilities, Tom Childs has received the prestigious award of “Waste Water Treatment Plant Operator of the Year” for 2011 by Evergreen Rural Water of Washington. Treatment Plant Operator of the Year” for 2011 by Evergreen Rural Water of Washington. We had a test run last fall and instead of working the bugs out, we had to add some. In order to We had a test run last fall and instead of working the bugs out, we had to add some. In order to create the proper environment for the treatment and breakdown of the waste products at the create the proper environment for the treatment and breakdown of the waste products at the plant, Tom had to add some products to the mix to facilitate the process. All is well at this time plant, Tom had to add some products to the mix to facilitate the process. All is well at this time and there were a couple of other issues that had to be remedied for efficient operation and odor and there were a couple of other issues that had to be remedied for efficient operation and odor control. control. Our first official discharge from the plant was on November 30, 2011. We have been using an Our first official discharge from the plant was on November 30, 2011. We have been using an

YOOYOOLAH! | 2012 SPRING | 11 YOOYOOLAH! | 2012 SPRING | 11 outside lab to verify that our effluent has met the standards set by the state at a cost of $200.00 a outside lab to verify that our effluent has met the standards set by the state at a cost of $200.00 a week. Tom has been testing the effluent in the lab at the treatment plant. Due to the excellent la- week. Tom has been testing the effluent in the lab at the treatment plant. Due to the excellent la- boratory and lab tech Tom Childs, the State of Washington has given us a Certificate of Accredi- boratory and lab tech Tom Childs, the State of Washington has given us a Certificate of Accredi- tation to test the discharge from the plant in our own lab at a cost savings of $800 - $1,000 per tation to test the discharge from the plant in our own lab at a cost savings of $800 - $1,000 per month. month.

Home Ownership Program (HOP) Home Ownership Program (HOP) Of the available houses in the Home Ownership Program, two of them have sales pending at this Of the available houses in the Home Ownership Program, two of them have sales pending at this time and one is still available for a qualified Tribal Member. time and one is still available for a qualified Tribal Member.

DOLL HOUSE FOR SALE DOLL HOUSE FOR SALE 600 E Summa St, Centralia 600 E Summa St, Centralia This 3 bed 1 bath home is a real cutie! 1439 sq. ft, 1 This 3 bed 1 bath home is a real cutie! 1439 sq. ft, 1 car garage, deck, covered porch, nice landscaping, car garage, deck, covered porch, nice landscaping, great detached shop in back yard. This home has a great detached shop in back yard. This home has a heat pump, fenced yard, city sewer & water. Price ap- heat pump, fenced yard, city sewer & water. Price ap- prox $89,000.00 (Lewis Co tax assessed value 2011 - prox $89,000.00 (Lewis Co tax assessed value 2011 - $136,100.00 $136,100.00

Driving Directions: From I-5 take exit 81, east on Driving Directions: From I-5 take exit 81, east on Mellon St. which turns into Alder, then Cherry, turn right on Pearl St. over viaduct, left on Sum- Mellon St. which turns into Alder, then Cherry, turn right on Pearl St. over viaduct, left on Sum- ma St to address on right ) ma St to address on right )

FOR SALE SALE PENDING FOR SALE SALE PENDING 159 Shiloh Rd, Winlock 159 Shiloh Rd, Winlock Lovely 3 bed, 2 bath home on 1.25 acres, 1618 sq. ft. w/detached 2 car garage. Private septic, Lovely 3 bed, 2 bath home on 1.25 acres, 1618 sq. ft. w/detached 2 car garage. Private septic, shared well, beautiful country setting in nice area. Price approx $120,000.00 shared well, beautiful country setting in nice area. Price approx $120,000.00 (Lewis Co assessed value for 2011 is $ 141,400.00) (Lewis Co assessed value for 2011 is $ 141,400.00)

FOR SALE SALE PENDING FOR SALE SALE PENDING 369 Baltimore St. Longview, WA 369 Baltimore St. Longview, WA HUGE 3 car garage/shop with cozy 2 bed 1 bath, 1,349 square foot home. Big family room, HUGE 3 car garage/shop with cozy 2 bed 1 bath, 1,349 square foot home. Big family room, modern kitchen has a large skylight, covered deck in back, covered parking in front, fenced & gat- modern kitchen has a large skylight, covered deck in back, covered parking in front, fenced & gat- ed yard. Price approx $116,000.00. ed yard. Price approx $116,000.00.

Housing is still working with Tribal Health to work out the details on a large home in Longview. Housing is still working with Tribal Health to work out the details on a large home in Longview. This could meet the needs of some of their programs and clients and offer safe temporary or long This could meet the needs of some of their programs and clients and offer safe temporary or long term housing. term housing.

Tenant Services Tenant Services Our tenant list is still growing in our Elder Apartments. We are now at about 33% occupancy. As Our tenant list is still growing in our Elder Apartments. We are now at about 33% occupancy. As the word about our apartments continues to spread, we seem to be getting more tribal members the word about our apartments continues to spread, we seem to be getting more tribal members interested in moving home to Cowlitz Country. The feedback continues to be very positive and interested in moving home to Cowlitz Country. The feedback continues to be very positive and our tenants are enjoying the quiet country setting while still being close enough to Chehalis and our tenants are enjoying the quiet country setting while still being close enough to Chehalis and

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Longview to stay connected to shopping and their Doctor’s office. They also enjoy having the Longview to stay connected to shopping and their Doctor’s office. They also enjoy having the Elder’s program provide meals in the dining room three days a week (and more during Kids’ Elder’s program provide meals in the dining room three days a week (and more during Kids’ Camp). Camp). The tenants here are encouraged to attend the“Cowlitz Village Residents Association” meetings The tenants here are encouraged to attend the“Cowlitz Village Residents Association” meetings that are held regularly in the dining room. This is where they can express and share their that are held regularly in the dining room. This is where they can express and share their thoughts, ideas, and concerns on the Elder Apartments. thoughts, ideas, and concerns on the Elder Apartments.

Housing Services Housing Services Housing for elders Housing for elders Beautiful brand new independent living apartments are now available at St. Mary’s Mis- Beautiful brand new independent living apartments are now available at St. Mary’s Mis- sion for qualifying Cowlitz Elders to rent. (Elders 62+) All units are air conditioned and sion for qualifying Cowlitz Elders to rent. (Elders 62+) All units are air conditioned and served by elevators and include the free use of clothes washer and dryers. Rents and served by elevators and include the free use of clothes washer and dryers. Rents and apartments sizes vary from efficiency apartments to 2 bedroom apartments. apartments sizes vary from efficiency apartments to 2 bedroom apartments.

Down Payment Assistance Down Payment Assistance Qualifying low income tribal members may receive down payment grants to help with Qualifying low income tribal members may receive down payment grants to help with purchase of a home, subject to HUD rules. purchase of a home, subject to HUD rules.

Home Repair and Rehabilitation Home Repair and Rehabilitation Do you have a leaky roof? No foundation? Did your furnace quit working? Help is avail- Do you have a leaky roof? No foundation? Did your furnace quit working? Help is avail- able for low income tribal members whose homes qualify for repairs. We can also help able for low income tribal members whose homes qualify for repairs. We can also help with handicap accessibility. with handicap accessibility.

Energy and Weatherization Energy and Weatherization Cowlitz Tribal Housing has a strong weatherization program for qualifying tribal mem- Cowlitz Tribal Housing has a strong weatherization program for qualifying tribal mem- bers and other natives. Some area restrictions apply. bers and other natives. Some area restrictions apply.

Mortgage Assistance Mortgage Assistance Low income tribal members may receive help with mortgage payments for up to 6 Low income tribal members may receive help with mortgage payments for up to 6 months. months.

Well and Sewer Repair or Replacement Well and Sewer Repair or Replacement By coordinating with Indian Health Services we are able to bring clean water and sanitary By coordinating with Indian Health Services we are able to bring clean water and sanitary living conditions to members in need. living conditions to members in need.

Standard Rental Assistance Standard Rental Assistance In Time of need, low income tribal members may receive help with monthly rent up to 6 In Time of need, low income tribal members may receive help with monthly rent up to 6 months months

Student Rental Assistance Student Rental Assistance Our most popular program, student rental assistance provides help with monthly rent for Our most popular program, student rental assistance provides help with monthly rent for low income full time students. low income full time students.

Elder & Disabled Rental Assistance Elder & Disabled Rental Assistance Qualifying low income Elder and disabled tribal members may receive help with rent. Qualifying low income Elder and disabled tribal members may receive help with rent.

Home Owner Counseling Home Owner Counseling We can assist members through the home buying process. When members are ready to We can assist members through the home buying process. When members are ready to

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apply for a home loan, we help find the lowest interest rate possible. Down payment assis- apply for a home loan, we help find the lowest interest rate possible. Down payment assis- tance of up to $20,000.00 can be available for those who qualify for a loan. tance of up to $20,000.00 can be available for those who qualify for a loan.

How Do I Know if I Qualify for Assistance? How Do I Know if I Qualify for Assistance? Qualification for services is based on family size and household income. Qualification for services is based on family size and household income.

Call Gary Lowe at 360-864-7010 for information or to request an application Call Gary Lowe at 360-864-7010 for information or to request an application

Housing Board Housing Board

There have been some changes on the Housing Board recently. You may have heard that Renee There have been some changes on the Housing Board recently. You may have heard that Renee King had resigned her position on the board last fall. The board recommended Tribal Member King had resigned her position on the board last fall. The board recommended Tribal Member Kevin Ward to fill her unexpired term ending February 28, 2013. Additionally, Patty Kinswa- Kevin Ward to fill her unexpired term ending February 28, 2013. Additionally, Patty Kinswa- Gaiser’s and Carolee Morris’ terms were up on February 28, 2012. Carolee was re-elected to the Gaiser’s and Carolee Morris’ terms were up on February 28, 2012. Carolee was re-elected to the board, and Katherine Iyall-Vasquez was elected to serve on the board with their terms expiring board, and Katherine Iyall-Vasquez was elected to serve on the board with their terms expiring February 28, 2016. Bob Bouchard offered his resignation for the term ending February 28, 2015, February 28, 2016. Bob Bouchard offered his resignation for the term ending February 28, 2015, and the board recommended Linda Turnbull to fill that unexpired term. Jess Groll also resigned and the board recommended Linda Turnbull to fill that unexpired term. Jess Groll also resigned from his term that expires February 28, 2013, and Lenny Bridges was recommended to fill that from his term that expires February 28, 2013, and Lenny Bridges was recommended to fill that unexpired term. Bob Bouchard has made himself available as the “Recording Secretary” for the unexpired term. Bob Bouchard has made himself available as the “Recording Secretary” for the board, and the board has accepted his offer. TheHousing Board would like to thank him for his board, and the board has accepted his offer. TheHousing Board would like to thank him for his years of service as Secretary of the Board, and appreciates his continued desire to serve the board years of service as Secretary of the Board, and appreciates his continued desire to serve the board in this capacity. in this capacity. All of the recommendations noted above have been submitted to the Tribal Council for their All of the recommendations noted above have been submitted to the Tribal Council for their consideration, and have been approved. consideration, and have been approved.

Mortgage Assistance Mortgage Assistance Foreclosure Victims Foreclosure Victims A report released by “First Focus” written by Julia B. Isaacs of the Brookings Institution A report released by “First Focus” written by Julia B. Isaacs of the Brookings Institution addresses the Invisible Victims of housing foreclosures, The Children! Five years into the addresses the Invisible Victims of housing foreclosures, The Children! Five years into the housing crises, 2.5 million children have lost their homes to foreclosure, and 3 million housing crises, 2.5 million children have lost their homes to foreclosure, and 3 million more are at serious risk of losing their home in the future. Additionally, approximately 3 more are at serious risk of losing their home in the future. Additionally, approximately 3 million children were evicted or may face eviction, from rental properties. million children were evicted or may face eviction, from rental properties. Overall, one in ten children was found to be affected by foreclosures. Overall, one in ten children was found to be affected by foreclosures. The report discussed four negative impactson children affected by foreclosures. The report discussed four negative impactson children affected by foreclosures. First, foreclosed families tend to move, and children that move frequently tend to do First, foreclosed families tend to move, and children that move frequently tend to do worse in school. worse in school. Second, research shows financial stress and hardships affect the way parents interact with Second, research shows financial stress and hardships affect the way parents interact with their children. Parents under a lot of stress tend to be less supportive. their children. Parents under a lot of stress tend to be less supportive. Third, foreclosures adversely affect physical as well as mental health. Studies show a high- Third, foreclosures adversely affect physical as well as mental health. Studies show a high- er rate of visits to emergency rooms and hospitals in zip codes with the highest foreclo- er rate of visits to emergency rooms and hospitals in zip codes with the highest foreclo- sure rates. sure rates. And fourth, children living in or near foreclosed homes may be dealing with consequences And fourth, children living in or near foreclosed homes may be dealing with consequences of foreclosures such as more vacant houses, higher crime rates, lower social cohesion, and of foreclosures such as more vacant houses, higher crime rates, lower social cohesion, and a lower tax base. a lower tax base. The report stated that children who change schools tend to have lower levels of math and The report stated that children who change schools tend to have lower levels of math and reading achievement compared to their more stable peers. Also, frequent changes in reading achievement compared to their more stable peers. Also, frequent changes in school are associated with higher dropout rates in High School. school are associated with higher dropout rates in High School. Housing disruptions due to foreclosure are just as traumatic for kids as losing their Housing disruptions due to foreclosure are just as traumatic for kids as losing their

YOOYOOLAH! | 2012 SPRING | 14 YOOYOOLAH! | 2012 SPRING | 14 homes to a tornado or hurricane – except this disaster will hit one in ten children. homes to a tornado or hurricane – except this disaster will hit one in ten children. The report makes several suggestions to combat the issue and highlighted a program The report makes several suggestions to combat the issue and highlighted a program called “McKinney-Vento Education for Homeless Children and Youth”, which provides called “McKinney-Vento Education for Homeless Children and Youth”, which provides schools with tools to help homeless students stay in school. The report stressed loan schools with tools to help homeless students stay in school. The report stressed loan modifications and called for bolder steps to improve the performance of modification pro- modifications and called for bolder steps to improve the performance of modification pro- grams, including national mortgage servicing standards, the resurrection of 2009 legisla- grams, including national mortgage servicing standards, the resurrection of 2009 legisla- tion that would amend bankruptcy laws to allow judges to modify residential mortgages, tion that would amend bankruptcy laws to allow judges to modify residential mortgages, and principle reductions for homeowners under certain conditions. and principle reductions for homeowners under certain conditions. First Focus is a bipartisan advocacy organization dedicated to making children and fami- First Focus is a bipartisan advocacy organization dedicated to making children and fami- lies a priority in federal policy and budget decisions. lies a priority in federal policy and budget decisions.

What you need to know about Cancellation of Mortgage Debt What you need to know about Cancellation of Mortgage Debt A lender will, on occasion, forgive some portion of a borrower’s debt. The general tax rule A lender will, on occasion, forgive some portion of a borrower’s debt. The general tax rule that applies to any debt forgiveness is that the amount of debt forgiven is treated as tax- that applies to any debt forgiveness is that the amount of debt forgiven is treated as tax- able income to the borrower. A new law enacted in December 2007 provides relief to able income to the borrower. A new law enacted in December 2007 provides relief to troubled borrowers when some portion of the mortgage debt is forgiven. However, this troubled borrowers when some portion of the mortgage debt is forgiven. However, this relief expires on December 31, 2012 and NAR (National Association of REALTORS) relief expires on December 31, 2012 and NAR (National Association of REALTORS) will be working to obtain an extension throughout the year. Below is some general infor- will be working to obtain an extension throughout the year. Below is some general infor- mation you need to know about this law and cancellation of Mortgage debt. mation you need to know about this law and cancellation of Mortgage debt.

General Rule for Debt Forgiveness General Rule for Debt Forgiveness If a lender forgives some or all of an individual’s debts, the general rule is that the forgiven If a lender forgives some or all of an individual’s debts, the general rule is that the forgiven amount is treated as ordinary income and the borrower must pay tax on the forgiven amount is treated as ordinary income and the borrower must pay tax on the forgiven amount. Exceptions apply for bankruptcy, insolvency, and certain other situations, in- amount. Exceptions apply for bankruptcy, insolvency, and certain other situations, in- cluding mortgage debt. cluding mortgage debt.

Does the relief apply only to a sale? Does the relief apply only to a sale? No. The provision has broader application. Lenders might forgive some portion of mort- No. The provision has broader application. Lenders might forgive some portion of mort- gage debt in a short sale or in a foreclosure where the debt is wiped out. Additionally, if a gage debt in a short sale or in a foreclosure where the debt is wiped out. Additionally, if a borrower still living in the home is able to make an arrangement with a lender that reduc- borrower still living in the home is able to make an arrangement with a lender that reduc- es the principle balance of a mortgage, the amount forgiven in that workout will not be es the principle balance of a mortgage, the amount forgiven in that workout will not be taxed. taxed. What if a property declines in value but the owner stays in the house? What if a property declines in value but the owner stays in the house? The provision would not apply. The provision applies only at the time of sale or other dis- The provision would not apply. The provision applies only at the time of sale or other dis- position or when there is a workout (reduction of existing debt) with the lender. position or when there is a workout (reduction of existing debt) with the lender. Do all lenders forgive mortgage debt when property values decline or the home is in Do all lenders forgive mortgage debt when property values decline or the home is in foreclosure? foreclosure? No. Some states have laws that allow a lender to require a repayment arrangement, par- No. Some states have laws that allow a lender to require a repayment arrangement, par- ticularly if the borrower has other assets. Forgiveness of debt is always at the lenders dis- ticularly if the borrower has other assets. Forgiveness of debt is always at the lenders dis- cretion. cretion.

YOOYOOLAH! | 2012 SPRING | 15 YOOYOOLAH! | 2012 SPRING | 15 2012 COWLITZ CANOE PRINCESS COMPETETION 2012 COWLITZ CANOE PRINCESS COMPETETION

(Pictured Left to Right: Maggie Valencia, Alexys Fender, Cynthia Reck, Stephanie Sabido, and (Pictured Left to Right: Maggie Valencia, Alexys Fender, Cynthia Reck, Stephanie Sabido, and Zoey Raquel) Zoey Raquel)

Alexys Fender and Cynthia Reck competed and were selected as the Cowlitz Canoe Princess and Alexys Fender and Cynthia Reck competed and were selected as the Cowlitz Canoe Princess and Junior Princess on Monday, April 2. Maggie Valencia and Stephanie Sabido were selected as al- Junior Princess on Monday, April 2. Maggie Valencia and Stephanie Sabido were selected as al- ternate Princess and Junior Princess. This is the first time the Canoe Princess competition was ternate Princess and Junior Princess. This is the first time the Canoe Princess competition was held. Alexys and Cynthia will represent the Cowlitz Canoe for one year. held. Alexys and Cynthia will represent the Cowlitz Canoe for one year.

YOOYOOLAH! | 2012 SPRING | 16 YOOYOOLAH! | 2012 SPRING | 16 COWLITZ DRUM GROUP COWLITZ DRUM GROUP

Where: The first Thursday of each month in Where: The first Thursday of each month in Longview at the Cowlitz Clinic…otherwise during Longview at the Cowlitz Clinic…otherwise during the month at St. Mary’s (schedule can fluctuate due the month at St. Mary’s (schedule can fluctuate due to weather and ceremonies) to weather and ceremonies)

When: 6:00PM Who: Everyone is welcome When: 6:00PM Who: Everyone is welcome

The Cowlitz Drum Group isopen to everyone who The Cowlitz Drum Group isopen to everyone who comes to learn our Cowlitz songs in a good way. comes to learn our Cowlitz songs in a good way.

Contact: For information please contact Cassandra Contact: For information please contact Cassandra Sellards Reck at (360) 513-1243 or [email protected] or Steve Kutz at (360) 731-2885 Sellards Reck at (360) 513-1243 or [email protected] or Steve Kutz at (360) 731-2885 or skutz. [email protected]. or skutz. [email protected].

CANOE JOURNEY CANOE JOURNEY By Steve Kutz By Steve Kutz and Devin Reck and Devin Reck

Each year the Cowlitz Canoe participates in the annual Tribal Canoe Each year the Cowlitz Canoe participates in the annual Tribal Canoe Journeys. It is the largest Cultural event in the Pacific Northwest. The Journeys. It is the largest Cultural event in the Pacific Northwest. The Cowlitz Canoe is a drug, alcohol, violence, and gang free group that en- Cowlitz Canoe is a drug, alcohol, violence, and gang free group that en- courages and invites both youth and adults (Native and Non-Native) to courages and invites both youth and adults (Native and Non-Native) to learn and experience Native Culture. learn and experience Native Culture.

The Canoe Journey is a celebrated event for Indigenous peoples, a revival of the traditional meth- The Canoe Journey is a celebrated event for Indigenous peoples, a revival of the traditional meth- od of transportation and is the largest cultural experience on the West Coast. The canoe culture od of transportation and is the largest cultural experience on the West Coast. The canoe culture had all but disappeared until 1989 when the "Paddle to Seattle" was initiated during the 100th had all but disappeared until 1989 when the "Paddle to Seattle" was initiated during the 100th anniversary of Washington Statehood. Then, in 1993, the Heiltsuk Nation in Bella Bella, British anniversary of Washington Statehood. Then, in 1993, the Heiltsuk Nation in Bella Bella, British Columbia challenged all canoe nations to travel by canoe to their village to participate in the Qut- Columbia challenged all canoe nations to travel by canoe to their village to participate in the Qut- awas Festival. Twenty-eight canoes answered that challenge. awas Festival. Twenty-eight canoes answered that challenge.

Today more than a 100 canoes from Today more than a 100 canoes from as many as 90 US Tribes, Canadian as many as 90 US Tribes, Canadian First Nations and New Zealand and First Nations and New Zealand and an estimated 12,000 people partici- an estimated 12,000 people partici- pate in the annual Tribal Canoe pate in the annual Tribal Canoe Journeys. Each year, there are a se- Journeys. Each year, there are a se- quence of canoe journeys taken up by quence of canoe journeys taken up by canoe families, nations, and groups canoe families, nations, and groups who travel in their canoes, either au- who travel in their canoes, either au- thentic replicas of traditional canoes, thentic replicas of traditional canoes, made out of solid cedar logs or vari- made out of solid cedar logs or vari- ous replicas using more modern ous replicas using more modern techniques and materials. techniques and materials.

YOOYOOLAH! | 2012 SPRING | 17 YOOYOOLAH! | 2012 SPRING | 17 Each year a different Nation hosts all the Indigenous peoples and their canoes, serving as the des- Each year a different Nation hosts all the Indigenous peoples and their canoes, serving as the des- tination for that year’s Journey. Last year the annual Tribal Canoe Journeys event was hosted by tination for that year’s Journey. Last year the annual Tribal Canoe Journeys event was hosted by the Swinomish Indian Tribal Community. This year the SquaxinIsland Tribe will host the 2012 the Swinomish Indian Tribal Community. This year the SquaxinIsland Tribe will host the 2012 Tribal Canoe Journeys that lands at Olympia on July 2th and then spends 7 days in protocol and Tribal Canoe Journeys that lands at Olympia on July 2th and then spends 7 days in protocol and potlatching at the Squaxin Island Tribe in Shelton. potlatching at the Squaxin Island Tribe in Shelton.

The Cowlitz Canoe will start theirannual Canoe Journey on the The Cowlitz Canoe will start theirannual Canoe Journey on the Columbia River and is planning on hosting protocol at Fort Columbia River and is planning on hosting protocol at Fort Vancouver, tentatively planned for July 16th. The cultural proto- Vancouver, tentatively planned for July 16th. The cultural proto- col is open to all our people and we hope to see you there. We col is open to all our people and we hope to see you there. We are very excited to share this event with our people. This is a are very excited to share this event with our people. This is a great opportunity to learn and experience our culture. great opportunity to learn and experience our culture.

Come on the Journey or just come to our protocol – have some Come on the Journey or just come to our protocol – have some excellent food, culture and make new friends from our Tribe and excellent food, culture and make new friends from our Tribe and other Tribes. After the Fort Vancouver protocol event, the other Tribes. After the Fort Vancouver protocol event, the Cowlitz Canoe will travel the various rivers and waterways of the Cowlitz Canoe will travel the various rivers and waterways of the Pacific Northwest eventually arriving at Squaxin Island the final Pacific Northwest eventually arriving at Squaxin Island the final destination for this year’s Journey. Our journey will last approxi- destination for this year’s Journey. Our journey will last approxi- mately three weeks. mately three weeks.

To help the Cowlitz Canoe succeed in the annual Journey, we To help the Cowlitz Canoe succeed in the annual Journey, we are asking for your assistance via donations and volunteering. There is a lot of hard work that are asking for your assistance via donations and volunteering. There is a lot of hard work that goes into moving the Canoe forward both in the water and on land. Thankfully through Canoe goes into moving the Canoe forward both in the water and on land. Thankfully through Canoe Journey we have seen many lives changed for the better. Journey we have seen many lives changed for the better.

Please contact Steve Kutz, the Canoe Chair, at 360-731-2885, [email protected] or Please contact Steve Kutz, the Canoe Chair, at 360-731-2885, [email protected] or Devin Reck, Vice Chair, at 360-513-1243, [email protected]. Follow the “Cowlitz Canoe” Devin Reck, Vice Chair, at 360-513-1243, [email protected]. Follow the “Cowlitz Canoe” Family on Facebook for the most up-to-date information. Family on Facebook for the most up-to-date information.

YOOYOOLAH! | 2012 SPRING | 18 YOOYOOLAH! | 2012 SPRING | 18

NATURAL RESOURCES DEPARTMENT NATURAL RESOURCES DEPARTMENT By Taylor Aalvik By Taylor Aalvik

The Tribe’s Natural Resources Department (NRD) is undertaking The Tribe’s Natural Resources Department (NRD) is undertaking many exciting projects and is looking forward to a lot of new opportuni- many exciting projects and is looking forward to a lot of new opportuni- ties for restoration work. We are also engaged in numerous challenges ties for restoration work. We are also engaged in numerous challenges which face the future of our homelands. We continue to move forward which face the future of our homelands. We continue to move forward in a positive way and work hard to protect, conserve, and restore cultur- in a positive way and work hard to protect, conserve, and restore cultur- ally relevant natural resources and the habitats they depend upon. Be- ally relevant natural resources and the habitats they depend upon. Be- low highlights some of the significant work we are undertaking. low highlights some of the significant work we are undertaking.

Columbia River Estuary Columbia River Estuary

The Columbia River Estuary plays a vital role in the survival of culturally significant species such The Columbia River Estuary plays a vital role in the survival of culturally significant species such as salmon & smelt. There are many impacts to the estuary region which has caused for reduction as salmon & smelt. There are many impacts to the estuary region which has caused for reduction in habitat and habitat quality. Primary impacts can be attributed to industrial growth and the in habitat and habitat quality. Primary impacts can be attributed to industrial growth and the installment of Dams upriver which has facilitated growth by reducing flood risk. The NRD has installment of Dams upriver which has facilitated growth by reducing flood risk. The NRD has been and continues to be heavily focused on the health of this important ecosystem and is in- been and continues to be heavily focused on the health of this important ecosystem and is in- volved in numerous activities towards conservation, and restoration of this environment. One volved in numerous activities towards conservation, and restoration of this environment. One major project is our involvement in the Columbia River Treaty review. This Treaty is an agree- major project is our involvement in the Columbia River Treaty review. This Treaty is an agree- ment that was made in 1964 between Canada and the US as it pertains to the water management ment that was made in 1964 between Canada and the US as it pertains to the water management of the Columbia River for flood control. Without adequate provisions for ecosystem health, this of the Columbia River for flood control. Without adequate provisions for ecosystem health, this Treaty has caused for a profound negative effect to the health of the estuary. This has been fur- Treaty has caused for a profound negative effect to the health of the estuary. This has been fur- ther exacerbated by industrial development which attributes to pollution concerns. ther exacerbated by industrial development which attributes to pollution concerns.

The NRD is working with a coalition of 15 Columbia Basin tribes to push for a better ecosystem The NRD is working with a coalition of 15 Columbia Basin tribes to push for a better ecosystem of the River. Our role includes advocating for the health of the estuary through better manage- of the River. Our role includes advocating for the health of the estuary through better manage- ment of the water to allow for a more natural flow of the river through our area. The hope is for a ment of the water to allow for a more natural flow of the river through our area. The hope is for a new Treaty with the inclusion of ecosystem function as a management priority. new Treaty with the inclusion of ecosystem function as a management priority.

While this larger policy issue is forging ahead, we are working to develop and implement addi- While this larger policy issue is forging ahead, we are working to develop and implement addi- tional salmon habitat restoration projects in the estuary. We are working with local agencies & tional salmon habitat restoration projects in the estuary. We are working with local agencies & stakeholders, and federal agencies including the Bonneville Power Administration on restoration stakeholders, and federal agencies including the Bonneville Power Administration on restoration project development. Our goal is to forge ahead with land acquisition and salmon restoration pro- project development. Our goal is to forge ahead with land acquisition and salmon restoration pro- jects as a way to conserve and restore essential riparian habitats within the estuary. jects as a way to conserve and restore essential riparian habitats within the estuary.

We also continue to monitor and advocate for Columbian White-tailed deer restoration which We also continue to monitor and advocate for Columbian White-tailed deer restoration which also reside and depend heavily within the estuary environment. We have been struggling in this also reside and depend heavily within the estuary environment. We have been struggling in this area primarily due to funding constraints. We have been unsuccessful in receiving a follow up area primarily due to funding constraints. We have been unsuccessful in receiving a follow up grant to work on a new restoration project. Currently, we are looking at other options and forging grant to work on a new restoration project. Currently, we are looking at other options and forging ahead to address concerns associated with past project activities and the need to continue with ahead to address concerns associated with past project activities and the need to continue with important work. important work.

Smelt Research Smelt Research

The 2011-12 smelt run has taken place and our smelt research team has worked tirelessly gather- The 2011-12 smelt run has taken place and our smelt research team has worked tirelessly gather- ing very important information. We have been looking at the timing of the adult smelt return to ing very important information. We have been looking at the timing of the adult smelt return to

YOOYOOLAH! | 2012 SPRING | 19 YOOYOOLAH! | 2012 SPRING | 19 the Columbia and associated tributaries, the numbers or size of the runs, the habitat conditions the Columbia and associated tributaries, the numbers or size of the runs, the habitat conditions of where they are found, and testing new technologies on how to collect information and under- of where they are found, and testing new technologies on how to collect information and under- stand with greater certainty of the science behind the smelt’s life-cycle. stand with greater certainty of the science behind the smelt’s life-cycle.

Our job continues at the moment by gathering information on the science behind smelt egg laying Our job continues at the moment by gathering information on the science behind smelt egg laying techniques and habitat of where they spawn. We are also trying to gain additional knowledge as- techniques and habitat of where they spawn. We are also trying to gain additional knowledge as- sociated with their migration to the ocean. We continue to break new ground on understanding sociated with their migration to the ocean. We continue to break new ground on understanding the science behind smelt and are currently leaders associated with their science and knowledge. the science behind smelt and are currently leaders associated with their science and knowledge.

Toutle River Drainage Toutle River Drainage

There are two major challenges that the There are two major challenges that the NRD are involved in within the Toutle NRD are involved in within the Toutle River drainage, which is a tributary off the River drainage, which is a tributary off the Cowlitz River and approximately 20 miles Cowlitz River and approximately 20 miles from the Columbia River. from the Columbia River.

There is a mining company which is cur- There is a mining company which is cur- rently looking to explore for copper, gold, rently looking to explore for copper, gold, and silver near Mt. St. Helens in a remote and silver near Mt. St. Helens in a remote and relatively undisturbed area located on and relatively undisturbed area located on the Gifford Pinchot National Forest. the Gifford Pinchot National Forest.

There are very few river systems in our N. Fork Toutle River Sediment. The river immediately above the There are very few river systems in our N. Fork Toutle River Sediment. The river immediately above the area which have not been impacted by de- SRS is unable to naturally recover because of the sediment build area which have not been impacted by de- SRS is unable to naturally recover because of the sediment build velopment. The two major Rivers, theup and the rivers inability to scour a new river channel. (picture velopment. The two major Rivers, theup and the rivers inability to scour a new river channel. (picture taken by Taylor Aalvik) taken by Taylor Aalvik) Cowlitz and Lewis Rivers have been severely Cowlitz and Lewis Rivers have been severely impacted by the building of numerous Dams which have taken away valuable habitat for salmon. impacted by the building of numerous Dams which have taken away valuable habitat for salmon. The potential for development of a copper, etc. inem in this drainage can have devastating long The potential for development of a copper, etc. inem in this drainage can have devastating long term impacts to salmon and other species and further negatively impact efforts for recovery. We term impacts to salmon and other species and further negatively impact efforts for recovery. We are working hard with Tribal Leaders to prevent any future damage to this area. are working hard with Tribal Leaders to prevent any future damage to this area.

The US Army Corp of engineers is proposing to raise a Dam (also called the Sediment Retention The US Army Corp of engineers is proposing to raise a Dam (also called the Sediment Retention Structure or SRS) on the North Fork of the Toutle River. It was originally built to try and hold Structure or SRS) on the North Fork of the Toutle River. It was originally built to try and hold back sediment after the eruption of Mt. St. Helens. This structure has held back sediment that back sediment after the eruption of Mt. St. Helens. This structure has held back sediment that normally would flush out and down stream to the Columbia River. It was primarily built to pre- normally would flush out and down stream to the Columbia River. It was primarily built to pre- vent flooding for developed areas such as the city of Longview. The SRS is now full and isn’t hold- vent flooding for developed areas such as the city of Longview. The SRS is now full and isn’t hold- ing back sediment which is slowly being washed downstream. Our main concern is that there is ing back sediment which is slowly being washed downstream. Our main concern is that there is river habitat upstream of the SRS which is valuable for salmon recovery. The SRS was built with river habitat upstream of the SRS which is valuable for salmon recovery. The SRS was built with no volitional passage and the Corp plans to raise the Dam again without volitional passage. We no volitional passage and the Corp plans to raise the Dam again without volitional passage. We are opposing this action for the primary reason of fish passage concerns. We have been very active are opposing this action for the primary reason of fish passage concerns. We have been very active in the past on this river as far as surveying the habitat above this structure, bringing alternative in the past on this river as far as surveying the habitat above this structure, bringing alternative and promising ideas to the table for sediment retention while restoring the river function, and and promising ideas to the table for sediment retention while restoring the river function, and trying to work with the Corp to establish volitional fish passage. We do not advocate for flooding trying to work with the Corp to establish volitional fish passage. We do not advocate for flooding of towns downstream but we are concerned that the Corp is not considering other, more fish of towns downstream but we are concerned that the Corp is not considering other, more fish friendly alternatives which we believe can be implemented. We will continue to push for volition- friendly alternatives which we believe can be implemented. We will continue to push for volition- al passage and restore river function upstream of the SRS. al passage and restore river function upstream of the SRS.

YOOYOOLAH! | 2012 SPRING | 20 YOOYOOLAH! | 2012 SPRING | 20 Huckleberry Enhancement Huckleberry Enhancement

The NRD has been working for the past The NRD has been working for the past few years toward a huckleberry enhance- few years toward a huckleberry enhance- ment project on the Gifford Pinchot Na- ment project on the Gifford Pinchot Na- tional Forest. Specifically, in an area tional Forest. Specifically, in an area called Pole Patch and near Burley Mt., called Pole Patch and near Burley Mt., which is approximately 20 miles south of which is approximately 20 miles south of Randle, WA. Tribal ancestors used to Randle, WA. Tribal ancestors used to actively manage these areas with the use actively manage these areas with the use of fire to keep the trees from naturally of fire to keep the trees from naturally filling in the huckleberry fields and shad- filling in the huckleberry fields and shad- ing them out. Since the US came in and ing them out. Since the US came in and took over management of the forest, the Pole Patch Huckleberry Area (picture taken by Taylor Aalvik) took over management of the forest, the Pole Patch Huckleberry Area (picture taken by Taylor Aalvik) active management of these areas for active management of these areas for huckleberries has ceased. In partnership with a local organization of the Pinchot Partners huckleberries has ceased. In partnership with a local organization of the Pinchot Partners (http://pinchotpartners.org/), we have advocated and worked with the Forest Service to actively (http://pinchotpartners.org/), we have advocated and worked with the Forest Service to actively manage these areas before they are lost. We are proud to say that we will likely see implementa- manage these areas before they are lost. We are proud to say that we will likely see implementa- tion of restoration and enhancement this year. This will initially involve the cutting of small diam- tion of restoration and enhancement this year. This will initially involve the cutting of small diam- eter trees and clearing to promote huckleberry growth. We continue with a larger enhancement eter trees and clearing to promote huckleberry growth. We continue with a larger enhancement project to open areas up which will provide improved conditions for huckleberry growth and im- project to open areas up which will provide improved conditions for huckleberry growth and im- proved picking conditions for Tribal members. proved picking conditions for Tribal members.

Conclusion Conclusion

The Natural Resources Department has very dedicated staff working for the Tribe in protecting, The Natural Resources Department has very dedicated staff working for the Tribe in protecting, restoring and preserving the environment we live in. The dedicated staff include: Shannon Wills, restoring and preserving the environment we live in. The dedicated staff include: Shannon Wills, Assistant Director; Nathan Reynolds, Ethno-Ecologist; Rudy Salakory, Biologist; Erik White, Assistant Director; Nathan Reynolds, Ethno-Ecologist; Rudy Salakory, Biologist; Erik White, Wildlife Biologist; Craig Olds, Fisheries Research Biologist; Dalton Fry, Assistant Fisheries Re- Wildlife Biologist; Craig Olds, Fisheries Research Biologist; Dalton Fry, Assistant Fisheries Re- search Project Leader; Robert Harju, Natural Resources Worker; and Michael Morris, Fisheries search Project Leader; Robert Harju, Natural Resources Worker; and Michael Morris, Fisheries Research Technician. We also work with Vocational Rehabilitation and others to support train- Research Technician. We also work with Vocational Rehabilitation and others to support train- ing opportunities to up-and-coming new employees in the field of Natural Resources. Please con- ing opportunities to up-and-coming new employees in the field of Natural Resources. Please con- tact me if you are interested in additional information on all the various projects we do. tact me if you are interested in additional information on all the various projects we do.

Taylor Aalvik, Director, Natural Resources Department Taylor Aalvik, Director, Natural Resources Department

Mt. St. Helens (picture taken by Taylor Aalvik) Mt. St. Helens (picture taken by Taylor Aalvik)

YOOYOOLAH! | 2012 SPRING | 21 YOOYOOLAH! | 2012 SPRING | 21 CULTURAL RESOURCES BOARD CULTURAL RESOURCES BOARD By Cassandra Sellards Reck By Cassandra Sellards Reck

The Cultural Resources Board is excited to announce the list of cultural The Cultural Resources Board is excited to announce the list of cultural events that happen yearly. The Board meets monthly before Tribal events that happen yearly. The Board meets monthly before Tribal Council at 7am and is open to all Tribal members. All Cultural events Council at 7am and is open to all Tribal members. All Cultural events are family friendly. Our Elders and children are the most important are family friendly. Our Elders and children are the most important asset we have. We work to improve the next seven generations and pre- asset we have. We work to improve the next seven generations and pre- serving our most valuable asset- our culture. serving our most valuable asset- our culture.

Our Cowlitz Recognition is a memorable day for all Tribal members. It commemorates the day Our Cowlitz Recognition is a memorable day for all Tribal members. It commemorates the day we were re-recognized by the Federal government. The official day is February 14th. The Tribal we were re-recognized by the Federal government. The official day is February 14th. The Tribal Council has celebrated it on the Sunday of that week so all Tribal members can participate. This Council has celebrated it on the Sunday of that week so all Tribal members can participate. This year’s the gathering was a potluck at St. Mary’s on February 12 at noon. year’s the gathering was a potluck at St. Mary’s on February 12 at noon.

March 4 was the Smelt Celebration at Gearhart Park in March 4 was the Smelt Celebration at Gearhart Park in Longview, WA. The Smelt are an endangered species Longview, WA. The Smelt are an endangered species and traditional food of our people. Ed Arthur coordinat- and traditional food of our people. Ed Arthur coordinat- ed the gathering at the park which had a nice brunch. Ed ed the gathering at the park which had a nice brunch. Ed and Roy Wilson lead the celebration. This year was spe- and Roy Wilson lead the celebration. This year was spe- cial because our children were able to release smelt back cial because our children were able to release smelt back into the river. into the river.

April 21 - Red Heart Band Ceremony is at Fort Vancou- April 21 - Red Heart Band Ceremony is at Fort Vancou- ver in Vancouver, WA at 10am. This is a wonderful gath- ver in Vancouver, WA at 10am. This is a wonderful gath- ering that honors a lost child from the Nez Pierce Red ering that honors a lost child from the Nez Pierce Red Heart Band during their imprisonment. The Cowlitz Heart Band during their imprisonment. The Cowlitz welcomes them to our land to have ceremony. welcomes them to our land to have ceremony.

June 1-3- The Cowlitz Encampment at the Cowlitz Landing (Vader) Property- This is a special June 1-3- The Cowlitz Encampment at the Cowlitz Landing (Vader) Property- This is a special time before General Council where Tribal members can come and gather together to camp on the time before General Council where Tribal members can come and gather together to camp on the Vader property. The Tribe provides some meals on the property, along with an amazing fire each Vader property. The Tribe provides some meals on the property, along with an amazing fire each night with drumming and dancing. The st1 Salmon Celebration is on Sunday at 10am at Barnes night with drumming and dancing. The st1 Salmon Celebration is on Sunday at 10am at Barnes Road Boat launch. This cultural event honors thesalmon one of our first foods. There is a lunch Road Boat launch. This cultural event honors thesalmon one of our first foods. There is a lunch afterwards at St. Mary’s. For more information please contact Ed Arthur at 360-508-6369, Cas- afterwards at St. Mary’s. For more information please contact Ed Arthur at 360-508-6369, Cas- sandra Sellards Reck at 360-513-1243 or Steve Kutz at 360-731-2885. sandra Sellards Reck at 360-513-1243 or Steve Kutz at 360-731-2885.

July 17- (to be announced) July 29-August 5 Squaxin Island hosting- The Canoe Journey is a July 17- (to be announced) July 29-August 5 Squaxin Island hosting- The Canoe Journey is a time of togetherness, growth and is the largest traditional cultural event in the Pacific Northwest. time of togetherness, growth and is the largest traditional cultural event in the Pacific Northwest. Practice pulls started in April gearing up to the 2012 Canoe Journey this year to Squaxin Island. Practice pulls started in April gearing up to the 2012 Canoe Journey this year to Squaxin Island. The Canoe is focused on family and building upour youth and Elders. The 10 Canoe Rules set a The Canoe is focused on family and building upour youth and Elders. The 10 Canoe Rules set a great example for all. The Tribe provides an Honoring dinner after the Journey to welcome the great example for all. The Tribe provides an Honoring dinner after the Journey to welcome the Canoe Family home. The dinner date for that has not been announced. Stay tuned to the website Canoe Family home. The dinner date for that has not been announced. Stay tuned to the website for the date. For further Canoe information please contact Steve Kutz at 360-731-2885. for the date. For further Canoe information please contact Steve Kutz at 360-731-2885.

August 29-September 1 is Huckleberry Camp at the Swift School House located near Mt. Ad- August 29-September 1 is Huckleberry Camp at the Swift School House located near Mt. Ad- ams. There is room on the property for tent camping and some RV space. The Tribe provides ams. There is room on the property for tent camping and some RV space. The Tribe provides

YOOYOOLAH! | 2012 SPRING | 22 YOOYOOLAH! | 2012 SPRING | 22 the meals/snacks. Each day there is transportation to the Huckleberry fields in Indian Heaven. the meals/snacks. Each day there is transportation to the Huckleberry fields in Indian Heaven. We traditionally gathered our Huckleberries and Indian Heaven is one of the places our people We traditionally gathered our Huckleberries and Indian Heaven is one of the places our people did this work. The Huckleberry ceremony is done before we go gather to give thanks. For more did this work. The Huckleberry ceremony is done before we go gather to give thanks. For more information contact Cassandra Sellards Reck at 360-513-1243 or [email protected]. information contact Cassandra Sellards Reck at 360-513-1243 or [email protected].

August 31-September 3 is the River Float. The floatis a spiritual journey honoring the ancient August 31-September 3 is the River Float. The floatis a spiritual journey honoring the ancient village sites of our people. For further details please contact Melody Pfeifer at 360-430-7173, village sites of our people. For further details please contact Melody Pfeifer at 360-430-7173, John O’Brien at 360-880-4560, or Linda O’Brien at 360-497-2082. John O’Brien at 360-880-4560, or Linda O’Brien at 360-497-2082.

September 8 is the Canoe Races at Ike Kinswa September 8 is the Canoe Races at Ike Kinswa State Park. The Canoe Races started with our State Park. The Canoe Races started with our former Chairman John Barnett wanting a warri- former Chairman John Barnett wanting a warri- or race in our aboriginal waters. The Tribe in- or race in our aboriginal waters. The Tribe in- vites canoes from around the area to gather and vites canoes from around the area to gather and race. The Tribe hosts a BBQ style potluck. The race. The Tribe hosts a BBQ style potluck. The Canoe Family takes all Tribal members who are Canoe Family takes all Tribal members who are interested to pull that day. Taylor Aalvik has interested to pull that day. Taylor Aalvik has taken the lead on this gathering and can be con- taken the lead on this gathering and can be con- tacted at 360-577-8140 for more information. tacted at 360-577-8140 for more information. September 22 is the Cowlitz Pow Wow in Tole- September 22 is the Cowlitz Pow Wow in Tole- do. This is a great event for everyone to come do. This is a great event for everyone to come and enjoy as a family. For more information please contact Patty at 360-520-2578 or Jess Groll and enjoy as a family. For more information please contact Patty at 360-520-2578 or Jess Groll at 360-508-1350. at 360-508-1350.

The Cultural Resources Board is made up of people who strive to recover, preserve and promote The Cultural Resources Board is made up of people who strive to recover, preserve and promote Cowlitz culture. The Board welcomes all Tribal members and families. These are the current Cowlitz culture. The Board welcomes all Tribal members and families. These are the current members: members: Officers Officers Chair- Roy Wilson Secretary- Cassandra Sellards Reck Chair- Roy Wilson Secretary- Cassandra Sellards Reck Vice Chair- Steve Kutz Vice Chair- Steve Kutz Representatives from Cultural groups Representatives from Cultural groups Fish Distribution Program- David Russell Horse Program- Ed Arthur Fish Distribution Program- David Russell Horse Program- Ed Arthur Drum Group- Cassandra Sellards Reck Language- Roy Wilson Drum Group- Cassandra Sellards Reck Language- Roy Wilson Canoe Family- Steve Kutz Youth Program- Claudia Tenney Canoe Family- Steve Kutz Youth Program- Claudia Tenney Pow Wow- Linda Foley Carving- Bob Harju Pow Wow- Linda Foley Carving- Bob Harju 4 At Large- 4 At Large- Melody Pfeifer Mike Caso Melody Pfeifer Mike Caso Patty Kinswa-Gaiser Julie Skaaden Patty Kinswa-Gaiser Julie Skaaden Tribal Council appointed- Tribal Council appointed- Taylor Aalvik Celine Cloquet Taylor Aalvik Celine Cloquet Debbie Medeiros Phil Harju Debbie Medeiros Phil Harju Director of Cultural Resources dAVe burlingame (non-voting) Director of Cultural Resources dAVe burlingame (non-voting)

YOOYOOLAH! | 2012 SPRING | 23 YOOYOOLAH! | 2012 SPRING | 23 COWLITZ YOUTH BOARD COWLITZ YOUTH BOARD By Cassandra Sellards Reck By Cassandra Sellards Reck

We are excited to send out this announcement of the 2012 Cowlitz Youth Department events We are excited to send out this announcement of the 2012 Cowlitz Youth Department events and other Tribal activities. This year's activities are: and other Tribal activities. This year's activities are:

January 28-29 - St. Mary's Lock-In- We had this fun January 28-29 - St. Mary's Lock-In- We had this fun overnight gathering that was focused on our older overnight gathering that was focused on our older youth (limited to ages 13-17). The goal is to build youth (limited to ages 13-17). The goal is to build our community and promote leadership within our our community and promote leadership within our people. The event started at 7:00PM on the January people. The event started at 7:00PM on the January 28th and will ended January 29th at 9:00AM. Par- 28th and will ended January 29th at 9:00AM. Par- ents were able to drop off their youth and there was ents were able to drop off their youth and there was snacks, fun and activities all night long. We had Tom snacks, fun and activities all night long. We had Tom Ficca and Devin Reck come in and speak about lead- Ficca and Devin Reck come in and speak about lead- ership and the importance an education. They were ership and the importance an education. They were able to tell their life stories and what share what choices they made to be clean, sober and success- able to tell their life stories and what share what choices they made to be clean, sober and success- ful. ful.

April 3 - Spring Break Gathering- Youth will be able to come and spend Spring Break at St. April 3 - Spring Break Gathering- Youth will be able to come and spend Spring Break at St. Mary's. We will have cultural, leadership, community building activities. April 1 we have registra- Mary's. We will have cultural, leadership, community building activities. April 1 we have registra- tion, Cowlitz Canoe Princess Competition and Free gym time. April 2 we are going to have 50 tion, Cowlitz Canoe Princess Competition and Free gym time. April 2 we are going to have 50 minute classes with various craft and educational presentations. April 3 will be our trip to the minute classes with various craft and educational presentations. April 3 will be our trip to the Cowlitz Museum and then afterwards we are able to take the kids to the Longview Administra- Cowlitz Museum and then afterwards we are able to take the kids to the Longview Administra- tive offices. Our Chairman has agreed to take the kids on a guided tour of all the services we pro- tive offices. Our Chairman has agreed to take the kids on a guided tour of all the services we pro- vide there. Afterwards it will be back to St. Marys for packing up, dinner with family and home. vide there. Afterwards it will be back to St. Marys for packing up, dinner with family and home.

June 2 - General Council Youth Day- This is a great day of crafts and education for our youth. June 2 - General Council Youth Day- This is a great day of crafts and education for our youth.

While parents are at the meeting our youth are able to gather together. While parents are at the meeting our youth are able to gather together.

June 17-21 - Northwest Portland Area Indian Health Board (NPAIHB) Meeting- This is an June 17-21 - Northwest Portland Area Indian Health Board (NPAIHB) Meeting- This is an opportunity for our older youth (ages 14-17) who are interested in the healthcare field to come opportunity for our older youth (ages 14-17) who are interested in the healthcare field to come and spend several days learning about national, local Tribal issues related to our people’s and spend several days learning about national, local Tribal issues related to our people’s healthcare. There will be limited attendance tothis event. There is a requirement for youth at- healthcare. There will be limited attendance tothis event. There is a requirement for youth at- tending the event to come to the July 14th Cowlitz Health Board meeting afterwards to tell the tending the event to come to the July 14th Cowlitz Health Board meeting afterwards to tell the Board what they learned. Youth desiring to attend the NPAIHB event are asked to write a small Board what they learned. Youth desiring to attend the NPAIHB event are asked to write a small essay answering the following questions: essay answering the following questions:

Why do you want to attend the event? Why do you want to attend the event?

What do you want to do in the future in the healthcare field? What do you want to do in the future in the healthcare field?

Please send letters of intent to: Please send letters of intent to: Claudia Tenney Claudia Tenney Cowlitz Indian Tribe Cowlitz Indian Tribe PO Box 2547 PO Box 2547 Longview, WA 98632 Longview, WA 98632

YOOYOOLAH! | 2012 SPRING | 24 YOOYOOLAH! | 2012 SPRING | 24 August 12-15 - Summer Youth August 12-15 - Summer Youth Gathering- The annual summer Gathering- The annual summer gathering at St. Mary's has proven gathering at St. Mary's has proven to be a powerful time for growth to be a powerful time for growth and learning opportunities. Drop off and learning opportunities. Drop off for youth will be August 12th at for youth will be August 12th at 11:00AM with parent/guardian 11:00AM with parent/guardian registration required. Pick up for registration required. Pick up for youth will be August 15th at youth will be August 15th at 12:00PM. Lunch is provided. 12:00PM. Lunch is provided.

November 5 - General Council November 5 - General Council Youth Day- This gathering is full of Youth Day- This gathering is full of activities and learning from 9:00AM activities and learning from 9:00AM to 12:00PM. to 12:00PM.

December 15 - Winter Gathering and Christmas Party- With the Christmas spirit this is a fun December 15 - Winter Gathering and Christmas Party- With the Christmas spirit this is a fun filled event that fun for all. Drop off for youth is at 9:00AM and pick up is at 4:00PM. Lunch is filled event that fun for all. Drop off for youth is at 9:00AM and pick up is at 4:00PM. Lunch is provided. provided.

The Cowlitz Youth Board has been hard at work plan- The Cowlitz Youth Board has been hard at work plan- ning, coordinating, and implementing the 2012 activities. ning, coordinating, and implementing the 2012 activities. As we come together and learn the spirit of being Cowlitz, As we come together and learn the spirit of being Cowlitz, our Tribal community and youth will thrive. We are com- our Tribal community and youth will thrive. We are com- mitted to the next seven generations by protecting, nurtur- mitted to the next seven generations by protecting, nurtur- ing, and educating our youth. ing, and educating our youth.

We are always looking for volunteers and highly encour- We are always looking for volunteers and highly encour- age parents/guardians, and families to participate. Volun- age parents/guardians, and families to participate. Volun- teers are required to submit to a background check with teers are required to submit to a background check with the Tribe’s Human Resources Department. This is a great way to get involved. You can contact the Tribe’s Human Resources Department. This is a great way to get involved. You can contact us at the Cowlitz Youth Board to start the process. Donations are also always appreciated. us at the Cowlitz Youth Board to start the process. Donations are also always appreciated.

Youth Board members Youth Board members Chair- Patty Kinswa- Gaiser- 360-520-2578 Chair- Patty Kinswa- Gaiser- 360-520-2578 Vice Chair- Cassandra Sellards Reck- 360-513-1243 Vice Chair- Cassandra Sellards Reck- 360-513-1243 Secretary- Debbie Medeiros- 360-624-7040 Secretary- Debbie Medeiros- 360-624-7040 Youth Board Representative- Devin Reck- 360-513-5886 Youth Board Representative- Devin Reck- 360-513-5886 Cultural Resources Board Representative- Claudia Tenney 360-791-1455 Cultural Resources Board Representative- Claudia Tenney 360-791-1455 Melody Pfeifer- 360-430-7173 Melody Pfeifer- 360-430-7173 Charity Sabido-Hodges- 360-270-3762 Charity Sabido-Hodges- 360-270-3762 Steve Kutz-360-731-2885 Steve Kutz-360-731-2885 Lenny Bridges Lenny Bridges

Respectfully Submitted, Respectfully Submitted,

Cassandra Sellards Reck Cassandra Sellards Reck

YOOYOOLAH! | 2012 SPRING | 25 YOOYOOLAH! | 2012 SPRING | 25 ELDERS PROGRAM REPORT ELDERS PROGRAM REPORT By Patty Kinswa Gaiser By Patty Kinswa Gaiser

The Cowlitz Elders Program provides nutritious meals to Elders, transportation to appointments The Cowlitz Elders Program provides nutritious meals to Elders, transportation to appointments and shopping, also information and assistance to other services, either from the county or the and shopping, also information and assistance to other services, either from the county or the state. Area Agency on Aging provides similar services under Title III, where the Tribes are under state. Area Agency on Aging provides similar services under Title III, where the Tribes are under Title VI, through Administration on Aging (AoA). We receive three year grants with each year Title VI, through Administration on Aging (AoA). We receive three year grants with each year having separate funding dollars. At the completion of three years, we must finalize our grant and having separate funding dollars. At the completion of three years, we must finalize our grant and re-apply. During the grant application process we are required to do a needs assessment of the re-apply. During the grant application process we are required to do a needs assessment of the Elders. It is then sent to University of North Dakota and they send us the results. Elders. It is then sent to University of North Dakota and they send us the results.

All the services (we are required to provide at least three) are: All the services (we are required to provide at least three) are:

 Congregate meals  Congregate meals  Home bound meals  Home bound meals  Transportation  Transportation  Information & Assistance  Information & Assistance  Telephoning  Telephoning  Wellness checks  Wellness checks  Grocery shopping  Grocery shopping  Recreational trips  Recreational trips

Recently Kaipo Rhodes has transferred from Elders Program to the clinic as the Community Recently Kaipo Rhodes has transferred from Elders Program to the clinic as the Community Health Representative. We will miss him, but is a great opportunity for him. Jennifer Johnson Health Representative. We will miss him, but is a great opportunity for him. Jennifer Johnson has accepted the position as cook. has accepted the position as cook.

During the youth spring break camp, we incorporate the Elders meals time with the youth. We During the youth spring break camp, we incorporate the Elders meals time with the youth. We also had Elders volunteer with the youth. also had Elders volunteer with the youth.

We have been working with Melissa Kirk, dietician for the HHS department. She reviews our We have been working with Melissa Kirk, dietician for the HHS department. She reviews our menus and makes suggestions to make healthier meals. She also did an Elders survey of meals, menus and makes suggestions to make healthier meals. She also did an Elders survey of meals, which had very positive results. which had very positive results.

Our transportation has grown so much, out of the area appointments being the most in demand. Our transportation has grown so much, out of the area appointments being the most in demand. We are in the process of working with the transportation department to resolve these issues. We are in the process of working with the transportation department to resolve these issues. We will be able to report soon on the transition of the Elders Program. We will be able to report soon on the transition of the Elders Program.

YOOYOOLAH! | 2012 SPRING | 26 YOOYOOLAH! | 2012 SPRING | 26 TRIBE HOSTS U.N. RAPPORTEUR TRIBE HOSTS U.N. RAPPORTEUR

The Cowlitz Tribe hosted the United Nation'sSpecial Rapporteur on Indigenous People's Is- The Cowlitz Tribe hosted the United Nation'sSpecial Rapporteur on Indigenous People's Is- sues, James Anaya when he visited and met in the Portland area on Indigenous issues in our re- sues, James Anaya when he visited and met in the Portland area on Indigenous issues in our re- gion. This was a unique opportunity for ATNI and the Cowlitz Tribe to co-host UN Special gion. This was a unique opportunity for ATNI and the Cowlitz Tribe to co-host UN Special Rapporteur Anaya, to our greater community to listen and examine indigenous issues. More than Rapporteur Anaya, to our greater community to listen and examine indigenous issues. More than seventy-five people attended this special meeting, coming from as far away as Neah Bay and Seat- seventy-five people attended this special meeting, coming from as far away as Neah Bay and Seat- tle. tle.

Indigenous peoples across the world experience the consequences of historical colonization and Indigenous peoples across the world experience the consequences of historical colonization and invasion of their territories, and face discrimination because of their distinct cultures, identities invasion of their territories, and face discrimination because of their distinct cultures, identities and ways of life. In recent decades, the international community has given special attention to the and ways of life. In recent decades, the international community has given special attention to the human rights situations of indigenous peoples, as shown by the adoption of international stand- human rights situations of indigenous peoples, as shown by the adoption of international stand- ards and guidelines, as well as by the establishment of institutions and bodies that specifically tar- ards and guidelines, as well as by the establishment of institutions and bodies that specifically tar- get these peoples’ concerns. The rights of indigenous peoples are further promoted by interna- get these peoples’ concerns. The rights of indigenous peoples are further promoted by interna- tional and regional human rights mechanisms. tional and regional human rights mechanisms.

The Commission on Human Rights appointed a Special Rapporteur on the rights of indigenous The Commission on Human Rights appointed a Special Rapporteur on the rights of indigenous peoples, as part of the system of Special Procedures. The Special Rapporteur’s mandate was re- peoples, as part of the system of Special Procedures. The Special Rapporteur’s mandate was re- newed by the Commission on Human Rights in 2004, and by the Human Rights Council in newed by the Commission on Human Rights in 2004, and by the Human Rights Council in 2007. 2007.

In the fulfillment of his mandate, the Special Rapporteur: In the fulfillment of his mandate, the Special Rapporteur:

 Promotes good practices, including new laws, government programs, and  Promotes good practices, including new laws, government programs, and constructive agreements between indigenous peoples and states, to imple- constructive agreements between indigenous peoples and states, to imple- ment international standards concerning the rights of indigenous peoples ment international standards concerning the rights of indigenous peoples  Reports on the overall human rights situations of indigenous peoples in  Reports on the overall human rights situations of indigenous peoples in selected countries selected countries  Addresses specific cases of alleged violations of the rights of indigenous  Addresses specific cases of alleged violations of the rights of indigenous peoples through communications with Governments and others peoples through communications with Governments and others  Conducts or contributes to thematic studies on topics of special im-  Conducts or contributes to thematic studies on topics of special im- portance regarding the promotion and protection of the rights of indige- portance regarding the promotion and protection of the rights of indige- nous peoples nous peoples

YOOYOOLAH! | 2012 SPRING | 27 YOOYOOLAH! | 2012 SPRING | 27 The Special Rapporteur undertakes efforts to follow-up on the recommendations included in his The Special Rapporteur undertakes efforts to follow-up on the recommendations included in his or his predecessor’s reports in relation to the foregoing areas of work. Additionally, he reports or his predecessor’s reports in relation to the foregoing areas of work. Additionally, he reports annually on his activities to the Human Rights Council. annually on his activities to the Human Rights Council.

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE (EDC) REPORT ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE (EDC) REPORT By Taylor Aalvik, EDC Chair By Taylor Aalvik, EDC Chair 360-575-3306 or [email protected] 360-575-3306 or [email protected]

The EDC is happy to announce it was successful in getting budget approval from Tribal Council The EDC is happy to announce it was successful in getting budget approval from Tribal Council to hire a staff person to work on economic coordination and planning for the Tribe. This is a to hire a staff person to work on economic coordination and planning for the Tribe. This is a good start and a positive step for capacity building in this area. Until now, it has been challenging good start and a positive step for capacity building in this area. Until now, it has been challenging for the EDC to move forward because we comprise of volunteers. The EDC and Tribal Council for the EDC to move forward because we comprise of volunteers. The EDC and Tribal Council understand that there is a considerable amount of “leg work” necessary to set up economic devel- understand that there is a considerable amount of “leg work” necessary to set up economic devel- opment programs and projects. It is our intent to have the ED coordinator/planner be the first opment programs and projects. It is our intent to have the ED coordinator/planner be the first towards building an ever growing and successful venture for the Tribe. With the ability to have a towards building an ever growing and successful venture for the Tribe. With the ability to have a staff person to do the day-to-day activities necessary, it should shorten the time needed to get staff person to do the day-to-day activities necessary, it should shorten the time needed to get projects off the ground. projects off the ground.

The EDC is also working hard on establishing updated policies, procedures, and internal controls The EDC is also working hard on establishing updated policies, procedures, and internal controls in the area of economic development. As a sovereign nation, we have a lot of flexibility and abili- in the area of economic development. As a sovereign nation, we have a lot of flexibility and abili- ties which are unique to us. Establishing internal controls will work to formalize our authorities ties which are unique to us. Establishing internal controls will work to formalize our authorities and assist in development of opportunities that will give added protections to the Tribe and the and assist in development of opportunities that will give added protections to the Tribe and the Tribal membership. Tribal membership.

The EDC has also been reaching out to other tribes and inter-tribal consortiums to learn what is The EDC has also been reaching out to other tribes and inter-tribal consortiums to learn what is happening in Indian Country and economic development. We are learning what they have done happening in Indian Country and economic development. We are learning what they have done in the past, which include understanding the pitfalls, breadth and depth of opportunities, and in the past, which include understanding the pitfalls, breadth and depth of opportunities, and knowing what we need to do to get or economy growing. Although we still wait for our reserva- knowing what we need to do to get or economy growing. Although we still wait for our reserva- tion status to become final; once it does, we will have done our homework, which will significantly tion status to become final; once it does, we will have done our homework, which will significantly shorten the timeline to get businesses off the ground. shorten the timeline to get businesses off the ground.

As we continue to capacity build and set up services and projects for the Tribe, we continue to As we continue to capacity build and set up services and projects for the Tribe, we continue to understand the needs and desires of the Tribal membership in the area of business development. understand the needs and desires of the Tribal membership in the area of business development. As we set up the appropriate programs, there are some services that are available right now for As we set up the appropriate programs, there are some services that are available right now for Tribal members to inquire about through outside organizations which have been helpful to us in Tribal members to inquire about through outside organizations which have been helpful to us in the past. One is an organization called Onaben, who provide valuable training and services to Na- the past. One is an organization called Onaben, who provide valuable training and services to Na- tive Americans. Please check their website out at http://onaben.org/index.php . Also, you can tive Americans. Please check their website out at http://onaben.org/index.php . Also, you can take a look at the Native Procurement Technical Assistance Center (PTAC) website at take a look at the Native Procurement Technical Assistance Center (PTAC) website at http://www.nativeptac.org/. They as well provide great services to tribes and their membership. http://www.nativeptac.org/. They as well provide great services to tribes and their membership. We look forward to a great and prosperous future. Please contact me if you would like to hear We look forward to a great and prosperous future. Please contact me if you would like to hear more about our developments. more about our developments.

YOOYOOLAH! | 2012 SPRING | 28 YOOYOOLAH! | 2012 SPRING | 28 Honoring the Spirit of All Cowlitz People Honoring the Spirit of All Cowlitz People 13th Annual Cowlitz Pow Wow 13th Annual Cowlitz Pow Wow Saturday, September 22, 2012 Saturday, September 22, 2012 At Toledo High School, At Toledo High School, Toledo, WA Toledo, WA Grand Entries at 1pm and 7 pm Grand Entries at 1pm and 7 pm

Greetings once again from the Pow Wow Committee, a group of individuals working together Greetings once again from the Pow Wow Committee, a group of individuals working together who have begun preparing for the 2012 Cowlitz Pow Wow. As attendance has grown beyond a who have begun preparing for the 2012 Cowlitz Pow Wow. As attendance has grown beyond a comfortable level at St. Mary’s Center, the Committee has decided to hold this year’s pow wow at comfortable level at St. Mary’s Center, the Committee has decided to hold this year’s pow wow at Toledo High School. Head Dancers are in the process of being determined. Other important Toledo High School. Head Dancers are in the process of being determined. Other important individuals will be returning, such as tribal member Don Ryan as Master of Ceremonies and Mi- individuals will be returning, such as tribal member Don Ryan as Master of Ceremonies and Mi- chael Brock as Arena Director. Once again our past honored guests Jeff Guidry and the eagle chael Brock as Arena Director. Once again our past honored guests Jeff Guidry and the eagle Freedom are planning to attend and participate in grand entries. Freedom are planning to attend and participate in grand entries.

Shana Lombard, the 2011-2012 Cowlitz Pow Wow Princess, has Shana Lombard, the 2011-2012 Cowlitz Pow Wow Princess, has been representing the Cowlitz Tribe with her attendance at various been representing the Cowlitz Tribe with her attendance at various pow wows and events since her reign began last September. She pow wows and events since her reign began last September. She will play a major role in this year’s pow wow, as well. With very will play a major role in this year’s pow wow, as well. With very few young women interested in the princess position the past few few young women interested in the princess position the past few years, the Committee has decided to no longer have a princess. years, the Committee has decided to no longer have a princess. (This may be reconsidered in future years.) Please join the Com- (This may be reconsidered in future years.) Please join the Com- mittee in thanking Shana, Teona Kinswa, and Jessica Ward, who mittee in thanking Shana, Teona Kinswa, and Jessica Ward, who have been the princesses since this position was reinstituted four have been the princesses since this position was reinstituted four years ago. years ago.

This year’s pow wow will again honor the Veterans of all service This year’s pow wow will again honor the Veterans of all service branches at each of the two grand entries, providing each Veteran Shana Lombard, 2011-2012 branches at each of the two grand entries, providing each Veteran Shana Lombard, 2011-2012 with a handmade gift as a show of gratitude for their service to our Cowlitz Pow Wow Princess with a handmade gift as a show of gratitude for their service to our Cowlitz Pow Wow Princess country. As in the past, other popular aspects of the day include country. As in the past, other popular aspects of the day include vendors selling their wares, drum groups performing, dancing for vendors selling their wares, drum groups performing, dancing for all who wish to participate on the floor, smoked salmon, a 5 pm all who wish to participate on the floor, smoked salmon, a 5 pm salmon dinner, the general and Pendleton blanket raffles, and the salmon dinner, the general and Pendleton blanket raffles, and the program for kids at approximately 6 pm during the dinner break. program for kids at approximately 6 pm during the dinner break. Concessions will also be offered throughout the day both by the Concessions will also be offered throughout the day both by the Committee and by food vendors, with a variety of choices. Committee and by food vendors, with a variety of choices.

By the time you are reading this, the Spring contest for this year’s By the time you are reading this, the Spring contest for this year’s t-shirt and sweatshirt design will be completed, with the chosen t-shirt and sweatshirt design will be completed, with the chosen artist being awarded a prize of $200. A variety of merchandise, artist being awarded a prize of $200. A variety of merchandise, including this year’s shirts, will be available to purchase at the including this year’s shirts, will be available to purchase at the General Council meeting in June and again at the pow wow. General Council meeting in June and again at the pow wow. Please support this event by purchasing items, as your assistance Please support this event by purchasing items, as your assistance Freedom and Jeff at the is important in raising the dollars needed to put on the pow wow, Freedom and Jeff at the is important in raising the dollars needed to put on the pow wow, Cowlitz Pow Wow which has been a completely self-supporting entity for a number Cowlitz Pow Wow which has been a completely self-supporting entity for a number

YOOYOOLAH! | 2012 SPRING | 29 YOOYOOLAH! | 2012 SPRING | 29 of years. Another fund-raiser that will also be of help is the homemade cinnamon rolls with juice of years. Another fund-raiser that will also be of help is the homemade cinnamon rolls with juice or coffee just prior to the General Council meeting in June. Monetary donations are also wel- or coffee just prior to the General Council meeting in June. Monetary donations are also wel- comed. comed.

Past dance competitions will be replaced this year with special dances with prizes for tiny tots to Past dance competitions will be replaced this year with special dances with prizes for tiny tots to age 7 and for golden age dancers 55 and over. This is more in keeping with the social aspect of our age 7 and for golden age dancers 55 and over. This is more in keeping with the social aspect of our pow wow, rather than as a competition pow wow with prize monies. We encourage everyone to pow wow, rather than as a competition pow wow with prize monies. We encourage everyone to come and dance in a social and participatory way, either in regalia or during intertribal dances. come and dance in a social and participatory way, either in regalia or during intertribal dances.

There have been some changes in the committee roster this year, with a few individuals stepping There have been some changes in the committee roster this year, with a few individuals stepping down and other tribal members joining the Committee to help with all the responsibilities, both down and other tribal members joining the Committee to help with all the responsibilities, both visible and behind the-scenes, of putting on this event. We welcome help from others, as there are visible and behind the-scenes, of putting on this event. We welcome help from others, as there are many tasks to be attended to and completed in order to ensure the Pow Wow’s continued suc- many tasks to be attended to and completed in order to ensure the Pow Wow’s continued suc- cess. Current Committee members include: cess. Current Committee members include:

Jess Groll, Chair & CFO Sheril Dea Jennifer Johnson Jess Groll, Chair & CFO Sheril Dea Jennifer Johnson Larry Knutson, Vice Chair Whitney Devlin Teona Kinswa Larry Knutson, Vice Chair Whitney Devlin Teona Kinswa Linda Foley, Secretary Gwendolan Drummond Patty Kinswa-Gaiser Linda Foley, Secretary Gwendolan Drummond Patty Kinswa-Gaiser Lenny Bridges Lindsey Foley Don Ryan Lenny Bridges Lindsey Foley Don Ryan

Please watch the Cowlitz tribal website (cowlitz.org/events) for updates related to the pow wow. Please watch the Cowlitz tribal website (cowlitz.org/events) for updates related to the pow wow. There you can find information about vendor details and registration forms as well as contact in- There you can find information about vendor details and registration forms as well as contact in- formation for some of the Committee members. We welcome your interest, your help, and your formation for some of the Committee members. We welcome your interest, your help, and your support throughout the year, including the day of the pow wow, to continue to help it to be the support throughout the year, including the day of the pow wow, to continue to help it to be the success it has been in the past and for many years to come. success it has been in the past and for many years to come.

We look forward to seeing you on Saturday, September 22nd. Please come and join us and per- We look forward to seeing you on Saturday, September 22nd. Please come and join us and per- haps even help out by volunteering. You won’t be disappointed that you did! haps even help out by volunteering. You won’t be disappointed that you did!

By Linda Foley and the Cowlitz Pow Wow Committee By Linda Foley and the Cowlitz Pow Wow Committee

YOOYOOLAH! | 2012 SPRING | 30 YOOYOOLAH! | 2012 SPRING | 30

ANNOUNCEMENT ANNOUNCEMENT

You are invited to You are invited to an outdoor mass to honor an outdoor mass to honor Blessed Kateri Tekakwitha Blessed Kateri Tekakwitha

Tuesday Tuesday July 31st July 31st 12:00 Noon 12:00 Noon St Edwards Catholic Church St Edwards Catholic Church 601 West C St. 601 West C St. Shelton, WA 98584 Shelton, WA 98584

Jake Finkbonner, an 11 year-old Lummi boy, was healed of a deadly Jake Finkbonner, an 11 year-old Lummi boy, was healed of a deadly infection through the intercession of Blessed Kateri. infection through the intercession of Blessed Kateri.

In October, she will be the first Native American proclaimed a saint by the Vatican. In October, she will be the first Native American proclaimed a saint by the Vatican.

Please come and participate in this magnificent story. Please come and participate in this magnificent story.

Everyone is welcome! Everyone is welcome!

Special Note: Special Note: This mass is taking place while Canoe Journey protocol is occurring at This mass is taking place while Canoe Journey protocol is occurring at Squaxin Island Tribe, but is not an official part of that event. Squaxin Island Tribe, but is not an official part of that event.

St. Edwards church is about 10 miles from the reservation. St. Edwards church is about 10 miles from the reservation.

YOOYOOLAH! | 2012 SPRING | 31 YOOYOOLAH! | 2012 SPRING | 31

Once Again Once Again

Once again I have come home, I couldn’t stay away Once again I have come home, I couldn’t stay away from your mountains of trees that lead to the sea from your mountains of trees that lead to the sea

and the beauty of old highways and the beauty of old highways

These endless mountains reaching to the sky These endless mountains reaching to the sky

so rugged ever changing so bold so rugged ever changing so bold

and the trees of green standing tall and strong and the trees of green standing tall and strong

give comfort to my soul give comfort to my soul

Yes, I have wandered through the years Yes, I have wandered through the years

seen beauty on the way seen beauty on the way

but I won’t leave you once again but I won’t leave you once again

I have come home to stay I have come home to stay

Sandra Jean (Cloquet family) Sandra Jean (Cloquet family)

YOOYOOLAH! | 2012 SPRING | 32 YOOYOOLAH! | 2012 SPRING | 32 CULTURAL RESOURCES DEPARTMENT CULTURAL RESOURCES DEPARTMENT

Here’s a short list of things your Cultural Resources Department has Here’s a short list of things your Cultural Resources Department has been up to: been up to:

Fish Distribution Program: David and Kirk are working hard, having Fish Distribution Program: David and Kirk are working hard, having distributed more than 6000 fish to families and for Tribal functions. The distributed more than 6000 fish to families and for Tribal functions. The reason they can do this is because of your donations to the program—it is reason they can do this is because of your donations to the program—it is not funded through any budget or grant. Please remember to donate to the program if you receive not funded through any budget or grant. Please remember to donate to the program if you receive fish; we’re asking for a buck per fish, which helps pay the gas for these guys. Thanks! fish; we’re asking for a buck per fish, which helps pay the gas for these guys. Thanks!

Columbia River Crossing: Although the project seems to have stalled on the political side of Columbia River Crossing: Although the project seems to have stalled on the political side of things, we are still actively involved in this project. The Final Environmental Impact Statement things, we are still actively involved in this project. The Final Environmental Impact Statement has been issued, and we have been involved in helping develop the methodology and guidelines has been issued, and we have been involved in helping develop the methodology and guidelines for the archaeological work that will take place as a part of the project. We will be on-site for pre- for the archaeological work that will take place as a part of the project. We will be on-site for pre- construction monitoring, including some preliminary work occurring in May. construction monitoring, including some preliminary work occurring in May.

WAC 222-20-120: It has been almost four years since I first raised this issue, and it will finally WAC 222-20-120: It has been almost four years since I first raised this issue, and it will finally take effect in June or July. My concern was that this little nugget of the Washington Administra- take effect in June or July. My concern was that this little nugget of the Washington Administra- tive Code was poorly written, and had a serious impact on Tribes’ sovereign immunity; it stated if tive Code was poorly written, and had a serious impact on Tribes’ sovereign immunity; it stated if there were cultural resources or concerns related to a Forest Practice Application (FPA), the there were cultural resources or concerns related to a Forest Practice Application (FPA), the landowner must meet with the affected Tribe(s). The implication of the WAC was that the landowner must meet with the affected Tribe(s). The implication of the WAC was that the Tribe, then, must meet with the landowner—but the State cannot tell any Tribe they must meet Tribe, then, must meet with the landowner—but the State cannot tell any Tribe they must meet with any private landowner. I originally sought to simply add the phrase, “at the Tribe’s discre- with any private landowner. I originally sought to simply add the phrase, “at the Tribe’s discre- tion” to the WAC, but it took more than three years and a whole host of revisions before a form tion” to the WAC, but it took more than three years and a whole host of revisions before a form was drafted that most could live with. I am not entirely happy with it, but I’ll wait a while before was drafted that most could live with. I am not entirely happy with it, but I’ll wait a while before delving into another four-year endeavor. delving into another four-year endeavor.

Jackson Highway/Newaukum Bridge MOA: Speaking of things taking way too long, this Jackson Highway/Newaukum Bridge MOA: Speaking of things taking way too long, this Memorandum of Agreement sat around for more than 18 months before being signed by us and Memorandum of Agreement sat around for more than 18 months before being signed by us and other participating agencies, a process usually taking 90 days or less. At issue was the damaging of other participating agencies, a process usually taking 90 days or less. At issue was the damaging of an archaeological site by Lewis County while constructing the bridge, and the County’s attempts an archaeological site by Lewis County while constructing the bridge, and the County’s attempts to evade total responsibility for the episode. After the Chehalis Tribe’s Richard Bellon and I met to evade total responsibility for the episode. After the Chehalis Tribe’s Richard Bellon and I met with County, State, and Federal transportation and archaeological representatives, we all came to with County, State, and Federal transportation and archaeological representatives, we all came to an agreement including a report that will show the dollar amount of the damage done to the site, an agreement including a report that will show the dollar amount of the damage done to the site, measures to be taken to protect the site from further damage, and at least one presentation to measures to be taken to protect the site from further damage, and at least one presentation to each of the Tribes detailing the project. each of the Tribes detailing the project.

Cowlitz Horses: We have begun a process we hope will lead to our being able to protect the wild Cowlitz Horses: We have begun a process we hope will lead to our being able to protect the wild horses in Cowlitz Country. This goal, however, has several hurdles before we can even begin to horses in Cowlitz Country. This goal, however, has several hurdles before we can even begin to protect this resource. To that end, we are starting at the beginning; researching the literature and protect this resource. To that end, we are starting at the beginning; researching the literature and gathering information. While “Cowlitz” horses are mentioned in several texts (as are Cowlitz sad- gathering information. While “Cowlitz” horses are mentioned in several texts (as are Cowlitz sad- dles), there is a lack of hard evidence that the wild horses of today are related to the original hors- dles), there is a lack of hard evidence that the wild horses of today are related to the original hors- es of Cowlitz Country; to address that, Ed has been contact with a couple Universities, including es of Cowlitz Country; to address that, Ed has been contact with a couple Universities, including Kentucky, that have expressed interest in helping us from the scientific angle. As mentioned earli- Kentucky, that have expressed interest in helping us from the scientific angle. As mentioned earli- er in this newsletter, there is now a group on the Cultural Resources Board dedicated to restoring er in this newsletter, there is now a group on the Cultural Resources Board dedicated to restoring the horses’ importance to the Cowlitz People. If you’d like to help out, give Ed a call the horses’ importance to the Cowlitz People. If you’d like to help out, give Ed a call

YOOYOOLAH! | 2012 SPRING | 33 YOOYOOLAH! | 2012 SPRING | 33 (360.508.6369) or shoot him an email ([email protected]). (360.508.6369) or shoot him an email ([email protected]).

Day-to-day: The main thing the CRD does is review permit applications, which take the form of Day-to-day: The main thing the CRD does is review permit applications, which take the form of FPAs, permits for new or additional construction, and project proposals. These come from city, FPAs, permits for new or additional construction, and project proposals. These come from city, county, state, and federal agencies, and private individuals. Since we cover eight counties in county, state, and federal agencies, and private individuals. Since we cover eight counties in Washington and the Columbia-bordering counties in Oregon, we always have a huge stack of Washington and the Columbia-bordering counties in Oregon, we always have a huge stack of stuff requiring our attention. In addition to review, we also request formal consultation with vari- stuff requiring our attention. In addition to review, we also request formal consultation with vari- ous individuals and agencies when cultural concerns arise, especially with the Columbia River ous individuals and agencies when cultural concerns arise, especially with the Columbia River Crossing and Bonneville Power Administration’s line extension projects. We also go into the Crossing and Bonneville Power Administration’s line extension projects. We also go into the community to raise awareness of the Tribe; both Ed and myself give talks and presentations to community to raise awareness of the Tribe; both Ed and myself give talks and presentations to government agencies, schools, and various social groups. The CRD also encompasses the Fish government agencies, schools, and various social groups. The CRD also encompasses the Fish Distribution and Carving Programs. Distribution and Carving Programs.

Thank you for your time. Thank you for your time. All My Relations, All My Relations, dAVe burlingame dAVe burlingame

Director, Director, Cultural Resources Department Cultural Resources Department 360.577.6962; [email protected] 360.577.6962; [email protected]

GAMING AUTHORITY NEWS GAMING AUTHORITY NEWS

Last year the tribal council created the Cowlitz Tribal Gaming Authority (the CTGA) to oversee Last year the tribal council created the Cowlitz Tribal Gaming Authority (the CTGA) to oversee the Casino project. Election for officers was done in December. Lowell (Sonny) Bridges is the Casino project. Election for officers was done in December. Lowell (Sonny) Bridges is Chairman, Bill Iyall is Vice-Chair, Carolyn Medeiros is secretary, and Carolee Morris is a mem- Chairman, Bill Iyall is Vice-Chair, Carolyn Medeiros is secretary, and Carolee Morris is a mem- ber. The CTGA also has 2 ad-hoc members, Jess Groll, finance officer of the Cowlitz Tribe and ber. The CTGA also has 2 ad-hoc members, Jess Groll, finance officer of the Cowlitz Tribe and Phil Harju, Vice-Chair of the Tribe. Phil Harju, Vice-Chair of the Tribe.

While the decision by the Department of the Interior to take our land into trust and to establish While the decision by the Department of the Interior to take our land into trust and to establish the Cowlitz Indian Reservation is being challenged in federal court in Washington DC, the the Cowlitz Indian Reservation is being challenged in federal court in Washington DC, the CTGA and our development team has been busy moving forward in several areas. CTGA and our development team has been busy moving forward in several areas.

One of the projects that the CTGA is undertaking is the Spirit of TALÍCN to identify Core One of the projects that the CTGA is undertaking is the Spirit of TALÍCN to identify Core Values of the Cowlitz people and to develop a Customer Service Culture for our casino. Values of the Cowlitz people and to develop a Customer Service Culture for our casino. “TALÍCN” means helping in the Cowlitz language. With this program our hope is to have a liv- “TALÍCN” means helping in the Cowlitz language. With this program our hope is to have a liv- ing history of our elders, history and culture. We would like to video tape and record any stories ing history of our elders, history and culture. We would like to video tape and record any stories or memories that any of our tribal members have. In doing this we will find many common or memories that any of our tribal members have. In doing this we will find many common threads of our history. We would be honored to hear more from all members of the tribe; howev- threads of our history. We would be honored to hear more from all members of the tribe; howev- er we feel that it is imperative to hear from our elders first. If you have anything that you would er we feel that it is imperative to hear from our elders first. If you have anything that you would like to share please don’t hesitate to contact the tribal office at 360-577-4180 or Carolyn Medei- like to share please don’t hesitate to contact the tribal office at 360-577-4180 or Carolyn Medei- ros at 253-255-6012. ros at 253-255-6012.

In December the CTGA accomplished a major goal when we finalized an agreement with the In December the CTGA accomplished a major goal when we finalized an agreement with the City of La Center to provide sewer service to the reservation. Of course the local card rooms chal- City of La Center to provide sewer service to the reservation. Of course the local card rooms chal-

YOOYOOLAH! | 2012 SPRING | 34 YOOYOOLAH! | 2012 SPRING | 34 lenged the city’s agreement in court, so we are working with the City to defend the Agreement. lenged the city’s agreement in court, so we are working with the City to defend the Agreement. We hope to have a court decision on by early fall. We hope to have a court decision on by early fall.

Another project we will be working on over the next several months along with our Salashan/ Another project we will be working on over the next several months along with our Salashan/ Mohegan development team will be the design and planning for the I-5 interchange improve- Mohegan development team will be the design and planning for the I-5 interchange improve- ments which will be the gateway to our Reservation. This involves working with the state depart- ments which will be the gateway to our Reservation. This involves working with the state depart- ment of transportation and the federal government to obtain permits for construction of the in- ment of transportation and the federal government to obtain permits for construction of the in- tersection improvements so that we will ready to build once our land is in trust. tersection improvements so that we will ready to build once our land is in trust.

The federal court case by Clark County, the Grand Ronde Tribe and others trying to overturn The federal court case by Clark County, the Grand Ronde Tribe and others trying to overturn the government’s decision to take our land into trust is proceeding forward. The record in the the government’s decision to take our land into trust is proceeding forward. The record in the case (over 130,000 pages long) has been submitted to the court and the court has set the briefing case (over 130,000 pages long) has been submitted to the court and the court has set the briefing schedule. The first briefs are due in July. The final response briefs are due in early September after schedule. The first briefs are due in July. The final response briefs are due in early September after which the court will make its decision. which the court will make its decision. While we wait for the court decision, we will continue to move forward with design and planning While we wait for the court decision, we will continue to move forward with design and planning so that we will be ready for construction as soon as possible after the lawsuit is over. so that we will be ready for construction as soon as possible after the lawsuit is over.

At the General Council meeting in June we will be joined by Mohegan Tribal Chairman Bruce At the General Council meeting in June we will be joined by Mohegan Tribal Chairman Bruce “Two Dogs” Bozsum and other members of our Salashan/Mohegan development team to pro- “Two Dogs” Bozsum and other members of our Salashan/Mohegan development team to pro- vide a more complete update on the Casino plans. We hope you can join us. vide a more complete update on the Casino plans. We hope you can join us.

Submitted by Carolyn Medeiros. Submitted by Carolyn Medeiros.

Cowlitz Indian Tribe Cowlitz Indian Tribe General Council Officers General Council Officers

June 2011 June 2011

Chair: William Iyall 817 34th Ave NW Gig Harbor, WA 98335 Chair: William Iyall 817 34th Ave NW Gig Harbor, WA 98335 253-851-7095 Term Expires 2012 [email protected] Cell: 253-677-4833 253-851-7095 Term Expires 2012 [email protected] Cell: 253-677-4833 FAX: 360-577-7432 FAX: 360-577-7432 Vice-Chair: Philip Harju 2115 Brown St SE Olympia, WA 98501 Vice-Chair: Philip Harju 2115 Brown St SE Olympia, WA 98501 360-352-5630 Term Expires 2014 [email protected] cell: 360-957-3036 360-352-5630 Term Expires 2014 [email protected] cell: 360-957-3036 FAX: 360-577-7432 FAX: 360-577-7432 Secretary: Nancy Osborne PO Box 353 Clatskanie, OR 97016 Secretary: Nancy Osborne PO Box 353 Clatskanie, OR 97016 503-728-2715 Term Expires 2012 [email protected] cell: 360-623-5675 503-728-2715 Term Expires 2012 [email protected] cell: 360-623-5675

Treasurer: Jess Groll 2156 Payne Rd Ellensburg, WA 98926 Treasurer: Jess Groll 2156 Payne Rd Ellensburg, WA 98926 Term Expires 2014 [email protected] cell: 360-508-1350 Term Expires 2014 [email protected] cell: 360-508-1350 FAX: 509-968-4351 FAX: 509-968-4351

COUNCIL MEMBERS COUNCIL MEMBERS Terms Expire 2012 Terms Expire 2012

Katherine Iyall-Vasquez 5203 43rd Ct SE Lacey, WA 98503 Katherine Iyall-Vasquez 5203 43rd Ct SE Lacey, WA 98503 360-459-8087 Cell: 360-870-3093 [email protected] 360-459-8087 Cell: 360-870-3093 [email protected] Larry Coyle 3400 Fords Prairie Ave Centralia, WA 98531 Larry Coyle 3400 Fords Prairie Ave Centralia, WA 98531 360-736-3482 Cell: 360-508-1349 [email protected] 360-736-3482 Cell: 360-508-1349 [email protected] Steve Kutz 622 E Cedar St Belfair, WA 98528 Steve Kutz 622 E Cedar St Belfair, WA 98528 360-275-9197 Cell: 360-508-6397; 360-731-2885 [email protected] 360-275-9197 Cell: 360-508-6397; 360-731-2885 [email protected] Randy Russell 3830 Oak St Longview, WA 98632 Randy Russell 3830 Oak St Longview, WA 98632 360-425-4986 [email protected] 360-425-4986 [email protected] Rod Van Mechelen 722 13th Ave SE # 205 Olympia, WA 98501 Rod Van Mechelen 722 13th Ave SE # 205 Olympia, WA 98501 360-480-7093 [email protected] 360-480-7093 [email protected]

YOOYOOLAH! | 2012 SPRING | 35 YOOYOOLAH! | 2012 SPRING | 35

Patty Kinswa-Gaiser 685 Spencer Rd Toledo, WA 98591 360-864-4658 Patty Kinswa-Gaiser 685 Spencer Rd Toledo, WA 98591 360-864-4658 [email protected] [email protected]

Terms Expire 2013 Terms Expire 2013

Carolee Morris 2666 Maplewood Dr Longview, WA 98632 360-749-4995 Carolee Morris 2666 Maplewood Dr Longview, WA 98632 360-749-4995 [email protected] [email protected] Taylor Aalvik 115 S Vista Way Kelso, WA 98626 360-508-1665 Taylor Aalvik 115 S Vista Way Kelso, WA 98626 360-508-1665 [email protected] [email protected] Mike Caso 1614 S Bagley Crk Rd Port Angeles WA 98362 360-457-0579 Mike Caso 1614 S Bagley Crk Rd Port Angeles WA 98362 360-457-0579 [email protected] Cell: 360-460-5608 [email protected] Cell: 360-460-5608 FAX: 360-417-5125 FAX: 360-417-5125 Celine Cloquet 3920 113th Avenue, SW Olympia, WA 98512 206-495-1020 Celine Cloquet 3920 113th Avenue, SW Olympia, WA 98512 206-495-1020 [email protected] [email protected] Cathy Raphael PO Box 152 Toledo, WA 98591 360-508-1326 Cathy Raphael PO Box 152 Toledo, WA 98591 360-508-1326 [email protected] [email protected] Karrie Monohon P.O. Box 39391 Lakewood, WA 98496 253-582-1376 Karrie Monohon P.O. Box 39391 Lakewood, WA 98496 253-582-1376 [email protected] [email protected]

Terms Expire 2014 Terms Expire 2014

Linda Foley 3511 NE 137th St Seattle, WA 98125 206-364-6757 Linda Foley 3511 NE 137th St Seattle, WA 98125 206-364-6757 [email protected] [email protected] Dan Meyer 3308 NE 116th St Vancouver, WA 98686 360-901-8328 Dan Meyer 3308 NE 116th St Vancouver, WA 98686 360-901-8328 [email protected] [email protected] Karissa Lowe 3328 Olympia Way Longview, WA 98632 360-261-4683 Karissa Lowe 3328 Olympia Way Longview, WA 98632 360-261-4683 [email protected] [email protected] Mike Iyall 1215 SE Hall Lacey, WA 98503 360-456-8720 Mike Iyall 1215 SE Hall Lacey, WA 98503 360-456-8720 [email protected] Cell: 360-628-2677 [email protected] Cell: 360-628-2677 Lenny Bridges 312 Noel Ave Centralia, WA 98531 360-330-5718 Lenny Bridges 312 Noel Ave Centralia, WA 98531 360-330-5718 [email protected] [email protected] Debbie Medeiros 2207 SW 6th St Battleground, WA 98604 360-624-7040 Debbie Medeiros 2207 SW 6th St Battleground, WA 98604 360-624-7040 [email protected] [email protected]

Tribal Council Officers Tribal Council Officers July 9, 2011 July 9, 2011 Chair: Lenny Bridges, Vice-Chair: Patty Kinswa Gaiser, Secretary: Randy Russell Chair: Lenny Bridges, Vice-Chair: Patty Kinswa Gaiser, Secretary: Randy Russell

Executive Council Members Executive Council Members Bill Iyall, Phil Harju, Lenny Bridges, Patty Kinswa Gaiser, Randy Russell, Nancy Osborne, Jess Groll Bill Iyall, Phil Harju, Lenny Bridges, Patty Kinswa Gaiser, Randy Russell, Nancy Osborne, Jess Groll Elected At Large Positions: Steve Kutz and Taylor Aalvik Elected At Large Positions: Steve Kutz and Taylor Aalvik

Cowlitz Tribal Office PO Box 2547 / 1055 9th Ave Suite B Longview, WA 98632 Cowlitz Tribal Office PO Box 2547 / 1055 9th Ave Suite B Longview, WA 98632 360-577-8140 360-577-8140 Fax: 360-577-7432 e-mail: [email protected] Fax: 360-577-7432 e-mail: [email protected]

Revised 03/06/12 Revised 03/06/12

YOOYOOLAH! | 2012 SPRING | 36 YOOYOOLAH! | 2012 SPRING | 36 "THUMBS UP" "THUMBS UP" By Lenny Bridges, Tribal Council Chair By Lenny Bridges, Tribal Council Chair

John F. Kennedy once said, "Ask not what your country can do for you - John F. Kennedy once said, "Ask not what your country can do for you - ask what you can do for your country." ask what you can do for your country."

I happen to do a lot of committee work for the tribe in my position as I happen to do a lot of committee work for the tribe in my position as Tribal Council Chair, and from time to time I see people who turn this Tribal Council Chair, and from time to time I see people who turn this adage around to "What can I do for the tribe?" I want to single out two people who are not en- adage around to "What can I do for the tribe?" I want to single out two people who are not en- rolled tribal members, but still work countless hours making the tribe the strong and close rolled tribal members, but still work countless hours making the tribe the strong and close tribe that it is today. tribe that it is today.

Devon Reck started to attend Thursday evening drum group meetings years ago with his three Devon Reck started to attend Thursday evening drum group meetings years ago with his three kids and his wife Cassie, who is a past Tribal Council member and present Health board mem- kids and his wife Cassie, who is a past Tribal Council member and present Health board mem- ber. Even though he works full-time for the State Department of Transportation, he found his ber. Even though he works full-time for the State Department of Transportation, he found his "niche" participating in family tribal functions. He now also serves as the co-ground crew leader "niche" participating in family tribal functions. He now also serves as the co-ground crew leader for the canoe committee and has become an integral part of the annual inter-tribal canoe journey. for the canoe committee and has become an integral part of the annual inter-tribal canoe journey. He found out that the tribe was awarded a grant to start a youth program and he "jumped right He found out that the tribe was awarded a grant to start a youth program and he "jumped right in" working with all ages of tribal youth, teaching them to make drums, weave cedar baskets, and in" working with all ages of tribal youth, teaching them to make drums, weave cedar baskets, and becoming the strong role model that he is. The youth of our tribe have come to look up to him becoming the strong role model that he is. The youth of our tribe have come to look up to him and have chosen him to become their advocate. and have chosen him to become their advocate.

Claudia Tenney started attending the meetings and hearings in Clark County years ago as an ar- Claudia Tenney started attending the meetings and hearings in Clark County years ago as an ar- dent supporter of the tribe aquiring land into trust at the LaCenter location. She since has been dent supporter of the tribe aquiring land into trust at the LaCenter location. She since has been appointed to or elected to both the Cultural and the Youth boards. You will not only find her at appointed to or elected to both the Cultural and the Youth boards. You will not only find her at Thursday evening drum group meetings, but at justabout any tribal function having to do with Thursday evening drum group meetings, but at justabout any tribal function having to do with culture or the youth of our tribe. Like Devon, Claudia serves as an excellent role model, working culture or the youth of our tribe. Like Devon, Claudia serves as an excellent role model, working many hours for the tribe without stipends or pay, just for the satisfaction of helping out. The next many hours for the tribe without stipends or pay, just for the satisfaction of helping out. The next time you see them at any tribal function, join me in giving each of them a "Thumbs Up". time you see them at any tribal function, join me in giving each of them a "Thumbs Up".

FROM THE TRIBAL ADMINISTRATOR FROM THE TRIBAL ADMINISTRATOR By Carolee Morris By Carolee Morris

Food Voucher Program - Any tribal member that lives in Washington State that is low-income, Food Voucher Program - Any tribal member that lives in Washington State that is low-income, is eligible for the food voucher program. The food voucher amount is based on how many people is eligible for the food voucher program. The food voucher amount is based on how many people are in the household, and the amount starts at $25.00 up to $55.00 maximum. ($25.00 is for one are in the household, and the amount starts at $25.00 up to $55.00 maximum. ($25.00 is for one person and the amount increases by $5.00 for each additional member) This program is derived person and the amount increases by $5.00 for each additional member) This program is derived from federal funding, and the Cowlitz Tribe as well as the other Tribes in Washington, are con- from federal funding, and the Cowlitz Tribe as well as the other Tribes in Washington, are con- tracted with STOWW. (Small Tribes of Western Washington located in Lakewood, tracted with STOWW. (Small Tribes of Western Washington located in Lakewood, WA) Please contact Carolee Morris, Tribal Administrator for assistance, at 360-575- WA) Please contact Carolee Morris, Tribal Administrator for assistance, at 360-575- 3300 or: [email protected] Thank you. 3300 or: [email protected] Thank you.

YOOYOOLAH! | 2012 SPRING | 37 YOOYOOLAH! | 2012 SPRING | 37 Food Commodities Program - We are currently contracting with STOWW (Small Tribes Or- Food Commodities Program - We are currently contracting with STOWW (Small Tribes Or- ganization of Western Washington) for the food commodities for our tribal members that are ganization of Western Washington) for the food commodities for our tribal members that are eligible. Eligible requirements are; they must live in Washington State, in rural areas, and be low- eligible. Eligible requirements are; they must live in Washington State, in rural areas, and be low- income. We will inform you of the progress of this important program for our Tribe, as we income. We will inform you of the progress of this important program for our Tribe, as we move forward. Please contact Carolee Morris, Tribal Administrator for assistance, at 360-575- move forward. Please contact Carolee Morris, Tribal Administrator for assistance, at 360-575- 3300 or: [email protected] Thank you. 3300 or: [email protected] Thank you.

LIHEAP - Any tribal member that resides in Washington State that is low-income, is eligible for LIHEAP - Any tribal member that resides in Washington State that is low-income, is eligible for the low income home energy assistance program, this is a federal program and all PUD’s offer the the low income home energy assistance program, this is a federal program and all PUD’s offer the same program also. Please contact Carolee Morris, Tribal Administrator for assistance, at 360 same program also. Please contact Carolee Morris, Tribal Administrator for assistance, at 360 -575-3300 or: [email protected] Thank you. -575-3300 or: [email protected] Thank you.

ICW (Indian Child Welfare) - This program is for our tribal members that have ICW issues/ ICW (Indian Child Welfare) - This program is for our tribal members that have ICW issues/ problems and need assistance. The ICW programhas been working with our children & fami- problems and need assistance. The ICW programhas been working with our children & fami- lies, keeping them together in a safe & protected home with their family members. The Cowlitz lies, keeping them together in a safe & protected home with their family members. The Cowlitz Tribe has been receiving State funding only, since our federal acknowledgement in 2002. We Tribe has been receiving State funding only, since our federal acknowledgement in 2002. We serve on the LICWAC Board (Local Indian Child Welfare Advisory Committee) for Washing- serve on the LICWAC Board (Local Indian Child Welfare Advisory Committee) for Washing- ton State, as a delegate for the Cowlitz Tribe, and has done so, since 1990. We are very involved ton State, as a delegate for the Cowlitz Tribe, and has done so, since 1990. We are very involved in this program for our Cowlitz children and families. Sometimes it can be very painful, sad and in this program for our Cowlitz children and families. Sometimes it can be very painful, sad and difficult, most times it turns out very well, and we are happy for our Cowlitz families. Please con- difficult, most times it turns out very well, and we are happy for our Cowlitz families. Please con- tact the tribal office for assistance, at 360-575-3300, or: [email protected] tact the tribal office for assistance, at 360-575-3300, or: [email protected]

Thank you. Thank you. Carolee Morris, Tribal Administrator Carolee Morris, Tribal Administrator

Before the General Meeting June 2 June Meeting General the Before 2 June Meeting General the Before

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$3.00 includes milk or coffee coffee or milk includes $3.00 coffee or milk includes $3.00

Giant homemade cinnamon rolls as a fund raiser raiser fund a as rolls cinnamon homemade Giant raiser fund a as rolls cinnamon homemade Giant

will be selling selling be will selling be will

Pow Wow Committee Committee Wow Pow Pow Wow Committee Committee Wow Pow

be provided by Tribe Tribe by provided be will Rolls and Ham Baked Baked Ham and Rolls will be provided by Tribe Tribe by provided be will Rolls and Ham Baked

Clam Chowder will be provided by Sonny Bridges Bridges Sonny by provided be will Chowder Clam Clam Chowder will be provided by Sonny Bridges Bridges Sonny by provided be will Chowder Clam

O-Z Beverages Beverages O-Z O-Z Beverages Beverages O-Z

H-N Desserts Desserts H-N H-N Desserts Desserts H-N

A-G Casseroles Casseroles A-G A-G Casseroles Casseroles A-G

Potluck at General Meeting Meeting General at Potluck Meeting General at Potluck

For more info call 360-577-8140 360-577-8140 call info more For For more info call 360-577-8140 360-577-8140 call info more For

Corner of Jackson Hwy and Spencer Rd., Toledo, WA WA Toledo, Rd., Spencer and Hwy Jackson of Corner Corner of Jackson Hwy and Spencer Rd., Toledo, WA WA Toledo, Rd., Spencer and Hwy Jackson of Corner

At ST. MARY’S MARY’S ST. At MARY’S ST. At

June 2, 2012 GENERAL MEETING MEETING GENERAL 2012 2, June June 2, 2012 GENERAL MEETING MEETING GENERAL 2012 2, June

NONPROFIT ORG NONPROFIT ORG U.S. POSTAGE PAID U.S. POSTAGE PAID Cowlitz Indian Tribe LONGVIEW, WA Cowlitz Indian Tribe LONGVIEW, WA P.O. Box 2547 PERMIT NO. 49 P.O. Box 2547 PERMIT NO. 49 Longview, WA 98632 Longview, WA 98632