Yooyoolah COWLITZ “One who calls” Fall 2020 Tribal News TENTH EDITION
Tribal Garden Expands, By Alyssa Fine, Meets Community Needs CIT Wellness & Diabetes During Pandemic Coordinator
Although only in its second year, the Cowlitz as Garden Assistants. The team works Tribe’s Community Wellness Garden together to plant, harvest, and maintain the is quickly expanding. This past spring, Garden, as well as distribute produce and Wellness Program and Natural Resource plan and conduct educational programs. Department staff teamed up to double the size of the production garden—adding The Garden’s growth ensured the program was 11,000 square feet of in-ground growing well prepared to respond to the unexpected and space. They also installed a 70-foot x 30- sometimes urgent needs of the community due foot high tunnel to allow for an extended to the COVID-19 pandemic. The increased growing season. A pole barn is being garden output allowed for more households constructed on-site to store the garden’s to receive fresh produce in a greater number Dalton Fry & Shalese Jorgenson (NRD) assisting Emma Johnson Helps with new tractor and allow for a dedicated space of locations, a crucial development in a with the installation of the high tunnel building Doorstep Garden Delivery for composting and cold storage. time of increased food insecurity. New food distribution sites in 2020 included More space requires a larger staff, and Tacoma, Ridgefield, and Vancouver. this summer saw two additions to the garden crew. Cindy Callahan, the Garden Knowing that safety concerns would keep Coordinator, was joined by Tessa Walker and Keith Johnson, who both serve Continued on Page 5
Receiving a doorstep garden delivery Tribal member Sheril Dea assisted Plants in high tunnel by grandson Matthew Mosback, Jr. 2 • Cowlitz Tribal News • Fall 2020
COVID-19 and Wildfires Everyone has been affected by the November 7th, 2020 COVID-19 pandemic, and many have been impacted by the recent wildfires. It has been General Council Meeting trying and difficult, but necessary for safety, to cancel most in-person Tribal events. We Virtual Live Meeting look forward to meeting again in-person. In the meantime, we have adapted by having Registration Required online meetings and cultural gatherings that Enrollment Card & Photo ID the Culture Department has supported, and the Health Department has offered online Questions? (360) 577-8140 Philip Harju, Tribal Chairman videos and activities to do at home. We More details to come, will continue to adapt and follow the best please check link for updates Chairman’s available public health recommendations. links.cowlitz.org/GC-MTG We are working as hard as ever to support Please note this meeting Corner members and the community. We have been will not be in person due By Philip Harju, Cowlitz Chairman distributing the COVID-19 payments as to health safety concerns authorized by Tribal Council as fast as possible, Greetings Tribal members, and members may now request emergency funds up to $2,000. Members must call the It is an honor and privilege to write this Tribal Offices to request these emergency funds. Gaming Compact amendments. Read the General membership. Any proposed first newsletter article as Chairman of Tribal Housing has also provided emergency the full press release from the State of constitutional amendment must first be the Cowlitz Indian Tribe. I am proud to assistance for wildfire victims. Washington on these recent amendments approved in three separate meetings: transition into this new role after serving on our website. We are also in negotiations on the Tribal Council since 2004, and as ilani with the state to implement the recently 1. The Tribal Council must approve the your General Council Vice Chairman enacted sports betting legislation. Finally, proposed amendment and forward it to since 2008. Culture is vital to our Tribe, ilani, our casino, is doing well after the 70-day the new parking garage will be completed the General Council. and I have participated in as many cultural closure that started in March. The casino has in November, and the preliminary planning 2. That amendment must be read at the events as possible throughout my life. Over reopened and is currently a non-smoking is continuing for a hotel. next General Council meeting. the years, I have enjoyed volunteering for facility, operating with reduced machines/ 3. The amendment must then be voted on at Youth, Elder, Canoe, Salmon, and Smelt tables and the best COVID-19 policies Cowlitz Tribal Member Portal the following General Council meeting, ceremonies that have taught me about our and procedures to protect our employees, requiring a two-thirds vote to pass. identity as Cowlitz People. Once again, customers, and members of the public. All Tribal members should now be able I would like to thank former Chairman to watch Tribal Council meetings via the Elections William Iyall for his many years of The Tribe is working with the Washington Tribal Member Portal. Sign up to access dedicated service to our Tribe. State Gambling Commission on new the portal on our website. The November The Tribal Council has authorized a one- General Council meeting will be virtual time emergency vote-by-mail election with all-online access. Details are currently for the six Tribal Council positions, the being worked out, and Tribal members will General Council Vice Chair position, and be updated once specifics are confirmed. the General Council Treasurer position. These positions would have been voted on Table Of Contents Enrollment at the June 2020 General Council meeting, had the meeting not been cancelled due Tribal Garden 1 Community News 12-13 On September 12, 2020, the Tribal Council to COVID-19. Ballots will be sent out Chairman’s Corner 2 Tribal Government Rosters 14-15 passed and forwarded to the General Council to Tribal members for a vote, and must Tribal Manager’s Update 3 Government News 16 a proposed constitutional amendment on be returned by October 24, 2020. Make enrollment. This amendment will allow sure that the Tribe has your current Bill Iyall Steps Down 4 Health & Human Services 17-21 eligible Cowlitz children to enroll until mailing address. Tribal members should Grant Dept Update 5 Youth 22-23 they are 19 years of age. The vote on the have already received your vote-by-mail Human Resources 6 Elders 23 constitutional amendment is planned for instructions in the mail from the Tribe. If the June 2021 General Council meeting. you have not received your vote-by-mail Enrollment 6 Public Safety 24 instructions, contact our Tribal Manager, Resources & Services 7-9 Natural Resource Department 26 As a reminder, our enrollment rules are set Orlando Moreno. out in our constitution, and any change to Culture 10-11 ilani 27 enrollment rules requires a constitutional amendment and must be approved by Continued on Page 5 Cowlitz Tribal News • Fall 2020 • 3
Social Distancing Practices Administrative Executive Natural Resources Dean Reynolds, our Tribal Facilities Assistant Natural Resources Director Taylor Aalvik Manager, has taken point on securing Selena Hansen, the Administrative represents the Tribe in local, county, and office space for our employees to ensure Executive Assistant (supporting the state boards and entities. He provides a compliance with social distancing and Chairman and Tribal Manager) is seat at the table and a voice for the Cowlitz new safety standards. He is now looking exceptional. She worked with our outside people on Forest, River, and Wildlife issues. at the needs on the Reservation (Tobacco legal counsel, Mike Iyall and Jerry Iyall, He also does a fantastic job with the Fish Shop, Public Safety, and Courts). He on making sure our payments complied Distribution Program. has added staff to help him with all the with the requirements of the law and met projects we have going on, while he travels the IRS safe harbor rules (GWE), while Human Resource Staff up and down I-5 to our various facilities. also managing myself and Chairman Iyall Nancy Osborne and the HR Staff have We recently replaced the carpeting in our (which is huge). On a bit of a sad note, been working so hard to keep up with the Orlando Moreno, Tribal Manager Vancouver Office. Chairman Iyall resigned, and we are still growth we are experiencing. In addition to coming to terms with it; we understand overseeing payroll and the new migration Ensuring Safety why, and wish him all the best and good to Microix Timesheets, they continue to Tribal Manager at all Locations health in his daily walk. help the employees with benefits and the Speaking of I-5, our CIO Dan Meyer is managers with personnel issues. Nancy Updates on the road installing thermal cameras, Strategic Planning Project is working with Legal on changes to our By Orlando Moreno, Tribal Manager servers, and workstations at our various Manager Personnel policy manual. facilities. He is upgrading internet speeds and We have staffed a Strategic Planning Project Wow—it has been quite a year so far … infrastructure throughout the organization. Manager position. Amanda Workman is Procurement System With all that has happened—and is still working hard to guide the organization and Speaking of Microix, we are implementing a happening—we are still doing and going Director of Health departments in moving our efforts forward centralized procurement system, and Legal strong. The team is adjusting to life with & Human Services with respect to our Comprehensive Plan. has finished working on the new purchasing the COVID cloud above us. What does Steve Kutz not do (or is not She is passionate about her new role and policy manual with our Purchasing involved in)? He and Elizabeth Tail are how we can integrate the Cowlitz Culture Manager Angie Bettineski. Angie has been We are a nimble, resourceful, and responsible instrumental in all the activities mentioned into our efforts. training the new departments in how to organization. Looking out for the health so far. They are also heavily involved in use the software while supporting Payroll. and welfare of our Tribal members and negotiating rates and expanding Health Reservation All purchasing, from soup to nuts, will go employees is our #1 priority. Below are just and Behavioral Health Services, ensuring ilani, the casino, is doing record-breaking through Angie and her staff. some of the highlights of the work of the the employees, tenants, patients, and business despite being closed for a short many directors working on your behalf. Tribal members can get the care they time; the Tobacco Outlet likewise is hitting Continued on Page 5 need—not to mention COVID-19 testing. new milestones since we opened. I believe Return to Office Guide At Longview and Tukwila, we have a few this is a testament to the great management We developed a Return to Office Guide to Abbott machines where receiving test and staff we have. Unfortunately, the Disclaimer help the organization communicate and results only takes a few minutes. Speaking restrictions in Wash. and Ore. have led assess how and when the employees can of Steve and all of his involvement, he and a new, rougher clientele to the casino, Cowlitz Tribal News Yooyoolah begin to return to the office under CDC, Elizabeth worked closely with Steve Stark, especially after 10 p.m. This new clientele state, and Tribal guidelines. Emergency our CFO, on 105L—leasing. These leasing is more problematic to deal with from a This publication does not reflect Management, headed by Aaron Workman, agreements allow the Tribe to charge rent law enforcement perspective. Our Public opinions of editorial staff and should is doing a phenomenal job in sourcing to federal tenants, help offset our costs, and Safety team continues to support the not contain any defamatory, malicious, supplies and working with the departments produce revenue to the Tribe. Reservation and our businesses providing libelous statements or personal and facilities to respond to this pandemic. unheard-of response times to calls for attacks on individuals, staff, Tribal He has a subcommittee working on requests Treasury Fund Disbursements assistance, despite a significant increase organizations, administration, or the for Cultural Events and Tribal Gatherings. Steve Stark, along with Dan Meyer as the in activity. Don Walkinshaw has done Cowlitz Indian Tribe as a whole. Treasurer, work on the Tribe’s audits. They an excellent job at the helm of the Tribal Needs Assessment Survey select the firm and review the findings Police Department during a very difficult Editorial Team We have completed a needs assessment prior to submitting the reports to the time. The department has grown under his Philip Harju Tiffini Alexander survey which will help with programing Tribal Council. The Accounting Group leadership. Our officers put our safety and Dan Meyer Emma Johnson and developing creative ways to reach our headed by Mr. Stark was also instrumental the safety of our employees and customers Dave Martinson Rina Goodluck people and assist them with their situations. in the Treasury Fund disbursements to before their own—we owe them a debt of Becky Blue David Doucette Heather Kraft Patty Kinswa-Gaiser This was done with the collaboration of the Tribal membership. They could not gratitude. (Thank you!) To help ensure the Amanda Workman Whitney Mosback various departments and committees have processed all the checks if not for department is growing correctly, we have Nichole Meyers (Planning, Emergency Management, our fabulous Enrollment Team and Kate hired an outside firm to perform an audit Health and Human Services, Transportation, Russell (from Accounting) who mailed and of our Public Safety Department. The audit Questions? and Administration). We culled a lot of processed all the applications, while doing will reveal what we are doing well and what E: [email protected] | P: 360-577-8140 information and were extremely happy their regular jobs. areas could be improved upon. with the response—so thank you so much. 4 • Cowlitz Tribal News • Fall 2020 Bill Iyall, General Council Chairman Steps Down
August 17, 2020, marked my last day as Chairman four times since 2008. It has been culminating with the General Welfare General Council Chairman and COO. I have an honor and a joy to serve as chairman Exclusion Act, allowing GWE payments proudly served the Cowlitz Indian Tribe for 28 during a time of growth and resurgence of to tribal members free from tax burden. years commencing as a Cowlitz Tribal Council the Cowlitz people for the past 12 years. member in 1993. While raising a young • Worked at the national and local level family at the time, I felt I could contribute In 2009, I was in DC to meet the incoming with the US Congress, House and Senate, to the tribe using my skills in engineering Assistant Secretary of Indian Affairs, Larry Department of Interior, the Bureau of Indian and development as a licensed professional Echohawk. We faced a moratorium on all Affairs, the National Congress of American engineer. I have been a prolific reader of BIA land determinations due to the Carcieri Indians, the Indian Health Service, HUD, Cowlitz history and researched carefully to Supreme Court Decision. With the backing EPA, DOC, DOJ, the Governor’s Office, better understand our story and true history. of many other tribes and a very strong case, the State Legislature, and many others. Chairman of the Cowlitz Tribal Gaming I told Larry we were the best tribe to be the Authority. I will also continue to serve on To begin preparing for our gaming venture, test case to gain our reservation. • Aided in the improvement of Cowlitz two Regional Transportation Councils, I had the great pleasure of establishing and Tribal issues that allowed for increased both in Clark and Cowlitz Counties, to chairing our Gaming Committee from 1994 to I have lived weekdays in my travel trailer services for Tribal members, restoration continue the effort to improve regional 2006. We have been challenged on many fronts in Castle Rock to be closer to the Tribal of the tribe, and self-sufficiency leading transportation improvements, including a in establishing our initial reservation in Clark government office, and I can now focus on to economic independence for the tribe. new I-5 Bridge to Portland. County, including at the US Supreme Court. my health and my family at home for the remainder of the pandemic. At the age of • A Supreme Court victory (the Carcieri I am very proud of the efforts of our In 1995, the tribe was given a large 73, as the eldest Chairman in the state, after land determination) allowing for a gaming dedicated and loyal staff at the Cowlitz anthropology document for the Cathlapotle working for nearly 60 years, it is time for compact which led to the opening of ilani. I Tribal government offices and ilani and am village site at Ridgefield. I read the report, me to begin a new chapter in my life. I have also steered efforts to expand gaming limits in grateful for their commitment to working walked the site on the wildlife refuge, and worked ceaselessly 6 to 7 days a week as the State of Washington and the introduction diligently serving our Tribal community. reported back to the Tribal Council. I felt your Chairman for more than 12 years. of tribal-only sports bettor. We gained our There is much that has been accomplished the very presence of our ancestors there. initial Reservation, ilani casino, after many and much more yet that needs to be The Ridgefield area was an ideal location During my tenure, I have provided leadership generations of effort as a Tribal family. It accomplished. After overseeing and for a casino site and I reported that as well. in the tribe’s economic development projects has taken a whole tribe to accomplish this. managing the rapid growth of the Tribal on our initial reservation, including ilani, operations for 12 years, I am comfortable to In reading a book by anthropologist, Cowlitz Crossing, Water Reclamation Plant, • Contributed to the extension of the Cowlitz turn that duty over to our newly appointed Robert Boyd, a professor at Portland State, I Cowlitz Way, I-5 Interchange upgrade and Tribe’s delivery of services which include Tribal Manager Orlando Moreno with his found a footnote reference to the proposed expansion, the Cowlitz Tobacco Outlet, Housing, Health Clinics, Natural and Cultural capable assistant Selena Hansen. reservation for the Cowlitz Tribe, by the parking garage at ilani, and master planning Resource, and Transportation departments. Indian Agent, William Tappan, to be located initiatives for the future of our reservation. I The general government went from 62 Since opening ilani in 2017, the Cowlitz Indian at Chelatchie Prairie in Clark County, from was also responsible for the Tribal operations employees in 2008 to now having 370 and Tribe has been dedicated to contributing the 1854 Vancouver Treaty Council note. in Administration, Natural Resources, additionally nearly 1,500 employed at ilani. to the future economic growth of Ridgefield, My brother, Mike found a micro film copy Cultural Resources, Financial Operation, and we will continue to do exactly that to of the original notes by the agent in the Housing, Transportation, Tribal Gaming • Guided the Cowlitz Indian Tribe as an further benefit Southwest Washington and the Washington State Archives. The notes were Authority, Public Safety, and Health and example during the COVID-19 pandemic. surrounding communities. I continue to receive a critical element of our successful defense of Human Services. We now deliver extensive The tribe’s dedication to responsiveness, congratulatory messages, including a personal the establishment of our initial reservation. I services for the general welfare of Tribal flexibility, and compassion to the local call from Senator Patty Murray, the Ridgefield was honored to present this as an element of members that reside across the United States. business community is strong. The tribe Mayor and City Council, the Attorney General, our restored lands decision by the National channeled the Education and Arts funds to former Assistant Secretary of the Interion Larry Indian Gaming Commission. Some additional highlights during my address pressing basic needs for vulnerable Echohawk, WDFW Director Susswind, and years as Chairman include: individuals finding themselves in dire straits tribal leaders across the country. As we continued to make progress with due to the economic upheaval caused by the expanding the Tribal government and • Appointed by Governor Gary Locke pandemic. The tribe’s contributions helped I leave with full confidence that with the programs for our Tribal memberships, I was to the Lewis and Clark 200 Year to stabilize local businesses by supporting leadership of Chairman Harju, the Tribal elected as Cowlitz General Council Vice-Chair Commemoration Commission. community members in great need. Council, our ilani team, and the staff in in 2006. When it became time to establish the the general government that the Cowlitz Cowlitz Tribal Gaming Authority (CTGA) in • Served as a delegate to eight White House To fulfill the commitment I started 28 years Indian Tribe will continue to grow and 2006, I was then appointed by Tribal Council, Tribal Leader Conferences and testified ago when first elected to the Cowlitz Tribal work relentlessly to serve the Cowlitz Tribal serving as Vice Chairman of the CTGA. before the Congress on tribal land issues. Council and in the creation of our gaming Members, other Native Americans, and the Worked with the Obama Administration committee, that now oversees development communities in which we live and work. I have had the great fortune to receive the on improving tribal consultation, and operation of ilani, as the CTGA. I support of my tribe to be re-elected as Tribal including Treasury and taxation issues, will continue to serve the tribe as the Vice - AMR, Bill Iyall Cowlitz Tribal News • Fall 2020 • 5
Chiarman’s Corner continued from Page 2 Tribal Garden continued from Page 1 Health and Human Services Legal Department many from visiting the Garden, Wellness Grant Department Program staff designed the Doorstep Garden I resigned as the General Counsel (Tribal Program. Over 70 community members Department King County 2020 MIDD Behavioral Attorney) for the Tribe on August 17, received soil, seeds, starts, and growing Health Small Grant. This funding 2020, when I became your Chairman. I instructions delivered directly to their door. Update opportunity is directed to the Substance am so proud of our Legal Department The youth internship program was also By Kyle Grant, Grant Writer Use Disorder Tukwila location (SUD- and our dedicated Legal staff. When we adapted to allow for at-home learning. Seven Seattle). The funding will be used to complete the current hiring process, we Native youth received support to build, plant, Youth Program increase access of integrated SUD services will have three staff attorneys and a new and maintain their gardens. The youth met to members of the AI/AN community. paralegal. Lori Goodwin, our current virtually weekly to learn from guest speakers Indian Education Discretionary Grant paralegal, will transition to become my about food sovereignty and traditional foods. Program. Demonstration Grants for Indian Transportation Department Executive Assistant. Selena Hansen will All participants prepared a meal with their Children and Youth Program. This funding become the Administrative Assistant for garden produce and a traditional food item opportunity will support distance learning, National Infrastructure Investments. Orlando Moreno, our Tribal Manager. before program completion. supplies and tutoring for Cowlitz youth. Cowlitz Bypass Road for Safe Multimodal We are blessed to have Orlando, Lori, Transversal of the Reservation. The and Selena working for our Tribe Engaging, safe activities are in high demand Healthy Pathways for Native Youth. The funding will increase safety on the regional every day. I also want to thank every during this unusual time. In response to this Canoe Family provides our youth with life- transportation network by reducing the Cowlitz Indian Tribe employee for their demand, the garden has offered activities changing skills of partnership, friendship, and traffic congestion. continued hard work and dedication. like a virtual canning program, during building community. This funding will aid which participants received all the supplies the Canoe Family in expanding opportunities Public Transportation on Indian Priorities needed to prepare their bread and butter for the Cowlitz youth to participate in Reservations Program. This funding pickles. Garden staff have also distributed culturally-rich traditional experiences. opportunity is supported by the I want to let the membership know that recipe kits that included all the ingredients Department of Transportation. Cowlitz better communication is one of my to prepare a healthy dish, including Garden Natural Resources Department Tribal Transportation Service (CTTS) is priorities. Our member portal, Tribal produce, spices, and oil. Volunteers seeking to add new emergency vehicles. website, and official Cowlitz Indian continued to visit the Garden during the Wash. State Archives Records Retention. Tribe Facebook postings will be primary pandemic; measures such as screenings, This funding opportunity will be used Child Care Development channels of consistent communication. masks, and social distancing have helped to to improve the department’s records Program (CCDP) Additionally, Tribal leaders will be posting ensure everyone’s safety. retention, management, and disclosure of timely video updates for our members. public records. This funding will be used to Native American Library Services Basic I am also working with staff and the The Garden has many exciting plans for dedicate time to improve our record request Grant. This funding opportunity will Tribal Council on establishing a Tribal the months to come. Funding is allocated procedure, record tracking procedure, provide for a learning library. The Cowlitz pharmacy, along with expanded health to construct a nature walk to highlight record management, and create an Learning Library will be able to offer and housing benefits. Indigenous and culturally significant plants. organized, secure room for confidential files. services to youth, young adults, and adults In addition, we are actively looking to expand at the Cowlitz Indian Tribe. I invite ideas and concerns about all these our growing footprint and food preservation Indian Environmental General issues from our membership. Please, programs, while also enhancing our year-round Assistance Program. This funding Wellness always feel free to contact me or any educational offerings. A tribal food sovereignty opportunity will allow the Cowlitz Indian member of the Tribal Council. assessment is also currently underway. Tribe to coordinate with local, state, and Native American Agriculture Fund federal agencies to propose expansion (NAAF). This funding opportunity will As I close, I hope everyone can access our We hope you will consider participating in of water quality monitoring sites in the support our Tribal Community Garden. The Tribal website and our official Cowlitz one of our many programs next year! To Cowlitz Indian Tribe’s region. Also, the goal is to work on expanding the capacity. Indian Tribe Facebook page. Members get more information, please contact Cindy grant allows for future development of a can sign up on the Member Portal to view at 360-787-3777 or [email protected]. water quality assurance project plan. past and future meetings. These times of pandemic and wildfires are difficult for all of us. As I said previously, we are working Tribal Manager continued from Page 3 build a plan—Debbie Hassler and Jerry I wanted to highlight some of the activities hard as ever to support members and the Iyall are spearheading this effort. we accomplished this year. I am extremely community. I look forward to continuing Information Technology proud of our staff, and they are a joy to serve the Tribe and to work toward I forgot to mention that IT is also going Tribal Council to work with. I am looking forward to positive changes that will benefit our to be upgrading our PBX system (phones) The Tribal Council approved moving forward working with Chairman Harju to grow the Tribal members. I send my best wishes this year. We are also looking to expand with a vote-by-mail election for the June 2020 organization and improve the quality of and hope everyone is safe and healthy. our Communication Department, which is election. We hired a firm who has helped other life of our Tribal membership. It is through currently under IT. We are in the process tribes with this process, and the election of six unity that we will all experience prosperity. - Philip Harju, Chairman of engaging a public relations firm to help Tribal Council members and two General Council us grow our communication footprint and officers is scheduled for October 24, 2020. Cowlitz Indian Tribe
Custom Report
Thursday, August 27, 2020 3:03pm Records: 90 Filters Applied: Deceased: No, Status: Enrolled, Mailing Zip =Unknown
Last Name First Name Middle Name
Abbott Alvin E Albrecht Shelly Christine Baker Kaiden Christopher Baker Kamryn Danielle Baker David Bradley Boles William George Boles Nancy Jane Bouchard Adam Oliver Bouchard Stefanie Alta Bowman Sean Aaron Bridges L. Jacob Eli Butterton Jason Allen Campbell William Bradley Carnes Ryan Richard Carnes Jr Ryan Richard Ciarfella Michael Andrew Connolly Gavin David Cornett Michelle Lee Corpuz Deborah Kelleen Dawson Maurice R Dawson Gary L Denney Victoria Lynn 6 • Cowlitz Tribal News • Fall 2020 DeNobrega Nio Arcenio Dill Tazzmen Justice Dunckel Dustin Dean By Nancy Duprey Meryl Wayne Human Osborne, Duprey Thomas Gerard HR Director Duprey Suzanne Marie Resources Enrollment Easley Aaron Dean Enrollment AddressEasley MakaylaUpdateAnn The number of employees has grown Department Eichler-Miller Hyacinth Donna Maxine If you know of any Tribal member or Fultontheir families that Angela are not receiving Michele significantly and continues to grow By Cathy Raphael, Enrollment Officer mailed Tribal information or the newspaper,Galloway they are Barbara either on our Jane with the expansion of departments and “Unknown Address List,” or the addressGalloway we have III is notJohn correct, please Baxter programs. To date, we have 360 employees; Our current total enrolled Gilbert Kelly LaDon Cowlitzhave them Indian contact Tribe the Enrollment Department. 167 of those are Native American, Alaska population is 4,261 with 65 Gilbert Buddy Gene or Hawaiian Natives (NAAHA), and of Gilbert Darrell John pending applications awaiting CustomP: 360-575-3310 Report | E: [email protected] Jr William David those, 61 are Cowlitz Tribal members. Tribal Council ratification at the Harris Leslie Ervin September Tribal Council Meeting. Thursday, August 27, 2020 3:03pm Hiebert Lisa Marie The Tribe has a preference policy, provided Records: 90 James William Julius individuals meet the job qualifications. James Judith Ann Our current enrollment criteria are Filters Applied: Deceased: No, Status: Enrolled, Mailing Zip =Unknown Preference is Cowlitz Tribal member, other (applicant must meet all three): James Jacqueline Marie Unknown AddressesJohnson Tanis Fisten-Dodlus Native American, Alaska Native or Hawaiian Last Name First Name Middle Name Jones Zada Mae Native, veterans, and all other applicants. 1) Applicant must be a direct lineal Abbott Alvin E Judge Janet LaVerne Last Name First Name Middle Name descendant of a Cowlitz Indian. Albrecht Shelly Christine Kniss Sandra Lee When managers/directors have a new Baker Kaiden Christopher Lane David Mark Lang Gayle Darlene or existing position, they notify Human 2) Applicant must have a parent Baker Kamryn Danielle Page: 1 Resources to post for the position. Those job Baker David Bradley Link Sheryl Diane (mother/father) on Cowlitz Lund Gwendolyn Marie openings are posted on the Cowlitz Indian Boles William George Tribal Roll. Boles Nancy Jane Mabry Kimberly Ann Tribe website – www.cowlitz.org, Washington Bouchard Adam Oliver McMillon II Micheal Allen Indian Gaming Association (WIGA), all Tribal 3) Applicant shall be no older than Bouchard Stefanie Alta Miller Reece Andrew locations, WorkSource, Monster, and Indeed. 12 months of age, or applicant is Bowman Sean Aaron Minkel Glenn William More specialized positions will be posted on 18 but not yet 19 years of age. Bridges L. Jacob Eli Morrison Lee Hoyt other sites relating to that type of position, e.g., Butterton Jason Allen Morrison Patricia Frances Campbell William Bradley Myers Jason Ross Indian Health Service, Legal. Carnes Ryan Richard Myers Daniel Lee Carnes Jr Ryan Richard Neilsen Ricky Dean Nichols Marilyn Inez ST. MARY’S RESERVATION Ciarfella Michael Andrew Office Connolly Gavin David Pardee Betty Rose 107 Spencer Rd. 1 Cowlitz Way 1 Cornett Michelle Lee Pearson Ellen Grace Locations Toledo, WA 98591 Ridgefield, WA 98642 Corpuz Deborah Kelleen Pearson Elizabeth Anne Dawson Maurice R Pellegrini Mark Stephen & Associated Housing ilani Dawson Gary L Perez Lori Louise Services Senior Nutrition Cowlitz Tobacco Outlet Denney Victoria Lynn Pfohlman Donald Arthur Elders Program Cowlitz Crossing DeNobrega Nio Arcenio Putas Anthony Micheal LONGVIEW Youth Program Tribal Gaming Agency Dill Tazzmen Justice Rayman Jeremy Lewis Richards Debra Ann Community Garden Public Safety Dunckel Dustin Dean 1055 9th Ave. Duprey Meryl Wayne Robinson Stephanie Lynn Longview, WA 98632 Employment Support Tribal Court Duprey Thomas Gerard Rockwood Michael James Services Emergency Management Ruemker Lena Maureen Administration Offices Duprey Suzanne Marie Cultural Resources Easley Aaron Dean Sabatella Thomas Vincent Enrollment & Benefits TUKWILA Easley Makayla Ann Saunders Troy Allen Natural Resources Simmons Sarah Ruby 15455 65th Ave. S VANCOUVER Eichler-Miller Hyacinth Donna Maxine Primary Care Clinic Fulton Angela Michele Sims Karen Joyce Tukwila, WA 98188 7700 NE 26th Ave. Contract Health Galloway Barbara Jane Sims Evan Danielle Vancouver, WA 9866 Mental Health Services Mental Health Galloway III John Baxter Smith Keaton Vaughn Jaeger Smith William Winfield Substance Use Disorder Substance Use Disorder Mental Health Gilbert Kelly LaDon Gilbert Buddy Gene Smith James R Healing of the Canoe Medically Assisted Substance Use Disorder Gilbert Darrell John Smith Linda Lee Pathways to Healing Treatment Co-Occurring Disorder Gilbert Jr William David Smith Jesse Lee Indian Child Welfare Pathways to Healing Case Management Harris Leslie Ervin Stalcup Joyce Leslie Child Care Development Co-Occurring Disorder Pathways to Healing Hiebert Lisa Marie Swaggard Jeneen HHS Childcare Case Management Employment Support James William Julius Thomas Eric V James Judith Ann Tucker Gwenith Christine Employment Support Indian Child Welfare Services James Jacqueline Marie Valdez August Analdo Services Employment Support Indian Child Welfare Johnson Tanis Fisten-Dodlus Wilson Jeffrey John Transportation Services Natural Resources Jones Zada Mae Zawistowski Vernon Lloyd Judge Janet LaVerne For more information call 360-577-8140 or visit cowlitz.org Kniss Sandra Lee *Please note this is not a complete list of all services provided for each location Page: 1
Page: 2 Cowlitz Tribal News • Fall 2020 • 7
Updated Children, Youth & Cowlitz Tribal 9/30/2020 Food, Household, Financial Education Services Food Vouchers Child Care Assistance Resource Guide 360-577-8140 ext. 2201 360-353-9909 | [email protected] Comprehensive List compiled by the Emergency Management [email protected] Department. For general inquiries please contact 1-877-COWLITZ Indian Child Welfare (ICW) Produce Boxes Child and family welfare services 360-577-8140 ext. 2234 Longview 360-355-2835 Health & Human Services [email protected] Vancouver 360-831-1950 Tukwila 206-491-9266 Substance Use Disorder Program 24-Hour Hotlines Commodities (food boxes) Assessments, intakes, referral to detox National Domestic Violence Hotline 360-577-8140 ext. 2214 Tuition Assistance and inpatient, problem gambling 1-800-799-7233 [email protected] 360-353-9588 | [email protected] Longview 360-575-3316 Rape, Abuse and Incest National Network Vancouver 360-947-2247 (RAINN) 1-800-656-4673 Fish/Fillets Cowlitz Youth Program Tukwila 206-466-5112 360-772-9935 Tutoring, learning and online interactions, Employment Support Services 360-353-9509 language, culture connection Healing of the Canoe Career guidance, education and/or job [email protected] 360-353-9915 | [email protected] Youth Substance Abuse Prevention training. Housing assistance for youth and 360-575-3315 ext. 2547 families. GWE Cell: 360-353-8202 360-575-6220 One time payment (62+) COVID-19 [email protected] Annual payments (65+) Medical Clinic 360-353-9589 Relief Fund Elders Program 360-575-8275 [email protected] (360) 353-9589 | (360) 353-9922 Delivery of home cooked freezer meals, [email protected] salmon (enrolled Cowlitz Elders only), sage, Member Patient Benefits & Support Housing If you have not applied already you can medicinal tea, hand sanitizer, cleaning 360-575-8275 Down payment assistance request an application from member products, prescription pick-up, rides to [email protected] Student rental assistance services. Deadline 11/30/2020 doctors’ appointments and/or grocery Elder housing apartments shopping Medical Assisted Treatment Clinic Elder rental/mortgage assistance Housing utility assistance 360-864-7003 | 360-600-4552 Tukwila 206-466-5410 Rental assistance/mortgage (360) 864-8720 | [email protected] Assistance home rehab Pathways to Healing Tobacco Cessation Program Aging in place Face Masks Domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, 360-353-9533 | [email protected] Help to avoid foreclosure Adult & youth sizes. The department of elder abuse, sex trafficking Well and sewer repair or replacement Emergency Management has face masks for Advocacy & therapy services Any tribal member in need of support Covid-19 utility assistance distribution to Tribal Members. Longview 360-575-6239 ext. 3 regardless of location can call 360-864-8720 (360) 577-8140 Vancouver 360-397-8228 360-397-8228 ext. 2 [email protected] [email protected] Tukwila 206-466-5131 LIEHEAP (Electricity Assistance) Mental Health Transportation 360-575-3310 Counseling & Medication Management [email protected] Longview 360-353-9422 Transit Services Vancouver 360-397-8228 ext. 2 Medical & Medicaid transportation, and Tukwila 206-721-5170 ext. 2313 rural transit services Assistance Finding Resources Cowlitz Tribal Member Services (CTMS) 360-232-8585 | [email protected] Here to help members learn about available services, programs, and resources. 1-877-COWLITZ (1-877-269-5489) | [email protected]
Facilities Department Update By Dean Reynolds Welcome New The spring, summer, and fall of 2020 services. Any high-touch areas in Cowlitz that comes in after normal business hours Facilities have been the result of a lot of hard work Tribal facilities are now constantly being to clean critical parts of the facility. I want and great outcomes for the Facilities cleaned throughout the day. Prior to the everyone to know that I’m committed to Manager Department. Since taking my position in pandemic, we would clean out facilities doing everything that I can to guide my the spring, we have successfully upgraded according to normal janitorial schedules; staff to help keep everyone safe. Hi, everyone, I’m Dean Reynolds, the the HVAC system, installed air purification however, that has changed. We are working new Facilities Manager and Public Works systems, upgraded our filters from an 8 to a very hard to clean those high-touch The Facilities Department is also growing. Director for the Cowlitz Indian Tribe. I have 13 MERV, and maximized our air flow. areas throughout the entire day, so that We have recently added multiple new hires, 30 plus years of experience. I’ve spent decades staff, visitors, and Tribal members are as as we continue to work tirelessly to provide working in facilities-related management roles Our true focused response to the safe as possible. Part of this around-the- the best facilities experience possible for in Florida and Washington. I have high hopes COVID-19 pandemic has been cleaning. clock cleaning strategy is adding another staff, Tribal members, and visitors. as I begin my work for the Tribe. Together, We have doubled and tripled our cleaning cleaning shift. We have an evening crew I think we will accomplish great things. 8 • Cowlitz Tribal News • Fall 2020
By: Jerry Iyall, Cowlitz Veterans Veterans’ Corner Representative, [email protected] Cowlitz Tribal Member Services Cultural Events Go Virtual Due to COVID-19, we will not have the between Pierce and Thurston Counties; the Veterans’ Luncheon scheduled to take largest Cowlitz Tribal member population 2020 is the first year of a new program place onVeterans Day this year. We hope to lives in Pierce County, followed by the at the Cowlitz Indian Tribe – Cowlitz resume the Veterans’ Luncheon in 2021. second-largest population in Thurston Tribal Member Services. The program was County. This facility is also close to Joint just getting started early this year when We are developing a plan to hire a full-time Base Lewis McCord and American Lake COVID-19 hit. Our plans to schedule Cowlitz Tribal Veterans Representative. VA Medical Center. monthly cultural events in Pierce County, We expect this to be completed by early Wash., had to be adapted so that we next year. The Cowlitz Tribal Veterans The job announcement will be made could support everyone’s safety by being Representative will be a full-time advocate available on our website around the compliant with social distancing. But that Tribal Elder Patty Kinswa-Gaiser for Cowlitz veterans and the benefits first of the year. Any interested Cowlitz didn’t stop Cowlitz Elder Patty Kinswa- demonstrates beading. they are entitled to. If you have had any veterans are encouraged to apply. Cowlitz Gaiser from sharing her knowledge with interactions with Veterans Affairs, you veterans can still provide us with their the membership. Please look on the Cowlitz website or keep know this can be a complex and daunting contact information by completing the an eye on your mail for more information task. The Cowlitz Veterans Representative Cowlitz Veterans Registration, which is on The first cultural event that had been about upcoming events. will be here to help you. Cowlitz.org under the “Newsroom” tab on planned was a beading project. Cowlitz Page 3 of “Announcements.” This contact Tribal Member Services switched the Cowlitz Tribal Member Services (CTMS) The Veterans Representative will be housed information will be used to notify Cowlitz project to a virtual event featuring Patty employs two staff members as Navigators, in the new DuPont site that is being veterans of upcoming events. and invited Cowlitz Tribal members to here to help members learn about available acquired by Cowlitz Health and Human request a kit that included all the beads services, programs, and resources. Cowlitz Services. DuPont is a great location, situated “If you love your freedom, thank a veteran.” and materials needed. A video of Patty, Tribal members who contact the program stringing a beaded necklace and giving will be guided to services provided by guidance to Tribal members was filmed, Cowlitz or, through referral, to other Tribes and the link to the video was sent out with or agencies that can provide services for the bead kits so members could do the which they are eligible. Our Cowlitz Tribal project at home. Over 700 Tribal members Member Assistors welcome your questions requested the kits, and we received many and comments and can be reached by thanks from the members who were able to calling 1-877-COWLITZ (1-877-269-5489) participate and make a necklace. or by emailing [email protected].
General Welfare
Exclusion Program By: Jerry Iyall
The Cowlitz Tribe has continued to in 2014. The GWE Act allows Tribes to expand the use of the General Welfare set up programs to benefit the General Exclusion (GWE) Program. In addition to Welfare of tribal members as well as the using GWE for scholarship funds, Elders tribe as a whole. Cowlitz GWE programs Program, Elders Health Care and Wellness are designed to be consistent with the IRS Program, Essential Needs Program, Funeral guidelines. Payments made under these [email protected] Service expenses, and Cultural events, we GWE programs are not considered income also used the GWE Program to distribute by the Internal Revenue Service; Cowlitz will funds from the “Corona Virus Aid, Relief, not report these payments to the IRS. and Economic Security Act” (CARES Act) using the Essential Needs Program, a So far, in 2020 we have paid over $300 GWE for Childcare Program, and a GWE million to Cowlitz Tribal members as GWE Program for personal emergencies. payments. By using the GWE Program, we have saved Tribal members thousands As a reminder, the General Welfare in taxes. (Total GWE payments times the Exclusion Act was passed by Congress average tax rate for 2018 of 14.8%=total and signed into law by President Obama savings for Tribal members.) Cowlitz Tribal News • Fall 2020 • 9
New Program Title The Cowlitz Vocational Rehabilitation Tribal citizens will be provided services in These are some of the Case Management Program (VR) has been in place for over 15 a holistic way, specific to their individual services we offer: Cowlitz years to assist Tribal citizens with disabilities needs and goals. Case Managers will work • Career and education guidance, creating to obtain and maintain employment. together to assure we are accessing all résumés, job readiness Employment We have expanded employment services relevant resources to “wrap” clients in • Skills, job search skills, and mock interviews specifically to Cowlitz Tribal members, services beneficial to them. • Support services such as advocacy and Support with no eligibility requirements by starting work experience Cowlitz Career and Employment Services Programs and descriptions we currently • Work clothing, footwear, tools, and Services (CCES). We also have two additional offer are: other supplies programs dealing with homeless, transition, • Vocational Rehabilitation (CITVR): • Certification and training opportunities Exciting things are happening within the and employment support services through A program that focuses on clients with • Self-employment guidance Health and Human Services Department! a Building Changes grant. disabilities to obtain and maintain • Housing assistance for homeless youth A new program title that embodies all employment. and families employment support services within the As we have developed over time, our services • Cowlitz Career & Education Services • Transition of youth from foster care or Cowlitz Tribe is now in place. With our are not strictly VR services; they encompass (CCES): This program is offered to other communities of care new name, “Cowlitz Employment Support several programs, with each program enrolled Cowlitz Tribal members Services,” people will be able to access measured by employment outcomes. Our nationwide for guidance and support Anyone with questions regarding the several programs to fully address the needs four programs currently offered are housed in toward a career. program is encouraged to contact Cowlitz of those seeking employment, including three sites: Toledo, Longview, and Vancouver. • Independent Housing Assistance Employment Support Services at the main self-employment. Employment Support Services are also available (IHA): A housing program to place number 360-575-6220, where we will answer to all Cowlitz Tribal members across the nation. homeless or near homeless clients into questions and guide you to the appropriate We know it is going to be difficult for Our Case Managers will work with tribal sustainable, permanent housing, as they Case Manager to fit your needs and location. people to change the mindset of “VR,” but members across or out of Washington state in work toward employment to become in time it will become the norm. Trying to person or virtually to research jobs or training, self-sufficient. Contact Phone Numbers remember all the acronyms for the different help with job searches, résumés, interviewing • Critical Transition Coaching (CTC): Information 360-575-3318 programs is confusing and using one name skills, and more. We also have programs for Serves Native American youth ages CITVR Longview 360-575-6221 will make it easier to understand who to American Indians in SW Washington in need 13–24 statewide (excluding Pierce, King, CITVR Vancouver 360-397-8228 contact. We hope to continue to grow and of assistance to find housing and employment and Snohomish Counties), who are or CCES 360-907-7609 search for additional employment program to become self-sufficient. These include have experienced recent homelessness or IHA Longview 360-916-6156 opportunities to become part of our services to youth and families and do have are transitioning from a system of care IHA Vancouver 360-397-8228 Employment Support Services. some eligibility requirements. and are in danger of becoming homeless. CTC 360-577-8276
By Gregg Ford, Cowlitz Tribal Tuition Assistance Program Update Tribal Education Committee Chair
If you are motivated and prepared to work have over 195 tribal members with tuition at 360-353-9588. Check out the Cowlitz. Suzanne Donaldson, David Iyall, Dave toward a Vocational Certificate, Associate awards for the 2020-2021 academic year org website for updates on our application Reichel, Dave Littleton, Joan Iyall, Mike Degree, Bachelor’s Degree, Master’s Degree, (May 1, 2020 to April 30, 2021). There process and to investigate the many Iyall, Timi Russin, and Crystal Leigh, as or a Doctorate Degree, the Cowlitz Tribal is still tuition money scholarships and well as the Tribal Council, Carol Burnison Tuition Assistance program would like to available. Don’t delay. learning opportunities the Tuition Assistance Coordinator, and help you achieve your goal. Thanks to the Submit your application Funding available for available. Often the Cowlitz Information Technology and continued support of the Tribal Council today! The application Cowlitz Tribal members recipients of the Accounting staff. This program does not run the Education Committee has been able to form is posted on the enrolled in the following Cowlitz award receive on its own. For many years several Tribal support over 200 Cowlitz Tribal members cowlitz.org website. programs. other scholarships members have worked hard volunteering with tuition assistance throughout the past We encourage you to and will not need all to provide scholarship/tuition assistance school year. Cowlitz members from all apply early as funding is Vocational Certificate or part of their award. for the Cowlitz people. In the “early days” over the United States and Canada have limited. Applications for up to $11,000/year This helps us reassign the tribe had very little money to spare, but received this Tribal benefit. Though most the 2021-2022 academic Associate Degree their unused funds it was clear that education was a priority, of those receiving this award are recent year will be available in up to $6,000/year to another Cowlitz even though the scholarships were few and high school graduates, many are older January 2021. Bachelor’s Degree member that might be limited. Today, the tribe is blessed to have adults going back to school. up to $11,000/year on a waiting list. the financial ability to provide more and If you have questions Master’s Degree larger tuition assistance then in the past. The Education Committee’s definition of or comments, please up to $16,500/year I want to thank the academic year starts on May 1 because e-mail education@ Doctorate Degree volunteers of the For information about Cowlitz Education, many summer programs start in May, and cowlitz.org or call Carol up to $16,500/year Education Committee: check out the Education page on the Cowlitz we want to include support for students in Burnison, Tuition Karissa Lowe, Becky website www.cowlitz.org under Services or these early summer programs. We currently Assistance Coordinator, Lowe, Celine Cloquet, e-mail us at [email protected]. 10 • Cowlitz Tribal News • Fall 2020 Cowlitz Canoe Family Update
Language Corner By Cassandra Sellards Reck By Michael J. Hubbs COVID-19 has halted Cowlitz cultural Words of Nature New Cowlitz Word gatherings, starting in March when the pandemic was first declared. We appreciate The below words are Nature oriented, I am officially announcing a new and honor the need to stop the spread, but broken down for you. word for our Cowlitz Language. it’s been very difficult. Being the Forever People, we have had to survive the spread of English Cowlitz Phonetically Currently, we have been using diseases before. We know how sacred our Chinook Jargon for our greetings: Elders and Youth are, so we humble ourselves Canoe Awakening Flower Sxíṣ S-hase Kla-how-ya is the word for “Hello”. to stop the spread, which means all of our canoe practices, gatherings, and even Canoe Tribal Canoes Fruit Stóól’šn Stall-shun I am now changing that. The new Journey have been cancelled. This has been word for “Hello” will be in our painful to people who know and believe in The first Tribal Canoe was gifted to the Grass Q’anápsu Qa-nop-sow Lower Cowlitz Language, (ƛ̓púlmixq). the sacred connection of the water. Cowlitz people by our former honorable Chairman, John Barnett. He saw the draw Deer Sƛ̓aláš STa-losht “Hello” will now be: Na̓kʷs Moving forward, we have decided to pause of our people to the Canoe movement; he the Canoe Princess competition. The 2019-20 knew and honored our history of being Huckleberry Wənáy’x̣ Won-aye x Pronounced like “Knock-ws” Canoe royalty have been asked to serve until a canoe traveling people. This gift has next year. This will allow us to get ready for given us back the connection to our canoe Camas Qáwm’ Kawum Its definition is: to nod or bow the 2021 and offer opportunity to future royalty. heritage and re-connected us to the water head in greeting. We are honored to have Kim Pemberton and other water Nations. McGill from the Portland All Nations Canoe family providing the bead work, and Present day, the Cowlitz people were our own Christine Hawkins (former TC, honored again by Dave Barnett, repeating current Health Board, Drum Group, and the selfless gifting of his father, John. In the Canoe Family member) who is weaving the fall of last year, Dave gifted a new canoe The Language Conservancy cedar crowns. The sacred cedar is from our to the Cowlitz Indian Tribe. The Canoe The Language Conservancy (TLC) has by a pronunciation and spelling guide. Aboriginal area. Please stay tuned for more Family was able to wake it up; however, been busy developing an online database Come January, the Tribe will be entering information, which will be announced on with the start of COVID-19, it hasn’t been utilizing M. Dale Kinkade’s Cowlitz into its second year of contracting with the Cowlitz website and Facebook. dedicated with ceremony. When it’s time, Dictionary and Grammatical Sketch, as TLC, and we are looking forward to being we will invite everyone to come witness well as a series of 57 audio recordings able to provide Tribal members with more Cowlitz Canoe merchandise will be the ceremony in person. We will honor from conversations between Kinkade, resources to learn the Cowlitz Coast Salish available for sale soon. Christine Hawkins the canoe, our people, and Dave Barnett. Emma Mesplie, and Lucy James, the Language. If you would like to be added and Jacqui Spar have championed the This gift is one of the most meaningful for last two proficient Cowlitz Coast Salish to the Culture Department’s email list canoe merchandise. We will soon have a canoe-traveling Tribe and will serve our speakers, taken in 1967. This database will for culture updates please email t-shirts, sweatshirts, and more available. Tribal people for generations. have a Vocab Builder app, accompanied [email protected]. Stay tuned for the Canoe Honoring Ceremony; the time and date will be posted via the Cowlitz website and on the Cowlitz Weavers “Cowlitz Culture and Canoe” The scheduled weavers’ conferences for many beginner video lessons that you can Facebook group (links.cowlitz. 2020 have all been canceled. I do have venture to do on your own as well. You can org/FB-Culture-and-Canoe). supplies and will be ordering more to also find places to purchase cedar, if you keep on hand. When the time comes for are not able to go gather. For more information us to meet again, we will be gathering to please contact: learn how to process the cedar from start Until the time comes to get together, please to finish to prepare it for weaving. If you take care of yourself; check www.cowlitz. Cassandra Reck | 360-513-1243 wish to learn about weaving, there are org for information on various cultural [email protected] many videos on YouTube and Pinterest. opportunities. John O’Brien | 360-880-4560 It is difficult during these times, but it David Cottonware | 360-644-8088 will prepare you for actually doing this Blessings, Patty Kinswa-Gaiser Dale Cottenware | 360-261-4977 wonderful cultural experience. There are 360-520-2578 Canoe Awakening Jeramiah Wallace | 360-266-7720 Cowlitz Tribal News • Fall 2020 • 11
Drum Group those technical limitations, we have evolved Ohanapecosh By Cassandra Sellards Reck for the time being into individual Drum Group practices. Jeramiah Wallace is leading Campground 2020 has been perhaps the most difficult small group practices (5 total) in Longview year in recent times for the Drum Group with social distance (20+ feet for singing), The Cowlitz-designated use sites at due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The Drum sanitation, and mask-wearing. We have been Ohanapecosh Campground have been used Group is a very active cultural presence able to work with Tribal administration who by Tribal members now for three summers! at the Cowlitz Indian Tribe. The group is has chosen to follow Governor Jay Inslee’s This camping season started off a bit late open to all Tribal members and affiliated COVID-19 safety recommendations. We with COVID-19 and hazardous tree issues, individuals who walk in a good way. We are have humbled ourselves and know the but Cowlitz members have been using it open to anyone who wants to learn and sing. importance of protecting our vulnerable steadily now since mid-July. Elders and Youth. All activities, practices, gatherings, Mt. Rainier National Park staff have been connections, and community representation We’ve had an evolution of virtual Cowlitz working on updating the Ohanapecosh Visitors have stopped. Thus, our people have cultural gatherings. Some of our Cowlitz Centers. Two Upper Cowlitz Taidnapam suffered. We have had to stand with those people have stepped forward to offer Elders were able to participate in the new film who have had a void. Drumming for many teachings and connections. Suzanne welcoming visitors to the park. Come summer is part of their recovery program — our Donaldson has stepped up and is 2021, you will see Patty Kinswa-Gaiser and Taidnapam Elders Greg Ladue-Grove culture heals. By filling that void with coordinating a connection that is open to Greg Ladue-Grove in the new film! and Patty Kinswa-Gaiser drumming, we have helped people get into all Cowlitz people. This is advertised on the rehab, stop suicide, and feel supported. Cowlitz Culture and Canoe Facebook group and via the Cowlitz Culture Department. From the COVID-19 pandemic culture We are looking for culture class teachers. void, the Drum Group has tried to expand Gathering Maze Cedar Chantrelle and started meeting virtually. It’s difficult, For anyone interested in teaching, please Can you find your way through the maze, Huckleberry Nettle as technology doesn’t support multiple contact Cassandra Reck at 360-513-1243 collect all the plants and the salmon, and Beargrass Strawberry sounds coming from multiple devices. With or email at [email protected]. not touch any lines? Salmon Douglas Fir
Huckleberry By Cassandra Sellards Reck
Huckleberries and our first foods provide healing and protection. Gathering during the food cycles was a way we have always protected our families; learning these practices is very important. The connection Handshake agreement to the mountain and the water happens when we gather. This is essential for our people. together, they have social-distanced and independently gathered to prevent the A big “Thank You” to the Cowlitz Cultural spread of COVID-19 among the Cowlitz Resources Board (CRB) and Tribal Indian Tribe. Council (TC) for recognizing the need for the connection. Due to the Covid-19 Rhonda Grantham has gathered stories and pandemic, the annual Huckleberry Camp practices and will be putting out a Cowlitz had to be cancelled. However, the CRB Huckleberry connection. Please look for and TC respected the request to take the the announcement on the Facebook group funding and convert it to gas cards that “Cowlitz Culture and Canoe” and on the families could apply for to be able to Cowlitz website. This will be an in-person continue to gather. experience shared via Zoom. What are the gathering items? Where would you find them?
Many Cowlitz Tribal members have gone For more information, please contact to the mountains, in different locations, to Cassandra Reck at 360-513-1243 or email pick Huckleberries. Instead of gathering at [email protected]. BONUS: 12 • Cowlitz Tribal News • Fall 2020
GRADUATION ANNOUNCEMENT Have You Signed Up for Jonathan the Tribal Member Portal? Mascarenas
Visit the COWLITZ.ORG website and sign up Jonathan Mascarenas graduated from University for online access. You will need an email and High School in Tolleson, Arizona on June 29. your tribal member number to start; no need Jonathan competed in Track and Field while at to sign-up again, if you have already signed up. UHS. He also started a powerlifting club and competed in several powerlifting and CrossFit Go to www.links.cowlitz.org/update or competitions throughout high school. Jonathan scan this QR code on your phone. has enlisted in the Navy and has received a contract to be an Air Rescue Swimmer as part of the Special Warfare Program. If you are having trouble with signing Jonathan is the son of Amy Sirb and grandson of Tom and Jodi Golden. up and need more directions, go to www.links.cowlitz.org/VideoHelp WEDDING ANNOUNCEMENT Ryan Lloyd Ward & Allison Robin Cowlitz Tribe Transit Service Hodgin
Ryan Lloyd Ward and Allison Robin Hodgin were Service Provided Daily Monday through Friday Transit Service Hours 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM excluding holidays married July 11, 2020, at the Hoh Rainforest near (360) 232-8585 Forks, Washington. The bride is originally from Port [email protected] Angeles, Washington, and is the daughter of Randy
It is our mission to enhance the quality of life for Cowlitz Tribal Members, and the and Nancy Hodgin. She received her bachelor’s general public, through the delivery of professional, friendly, safe, reliable, and efficient degree in Elementary Education from the University of Idaho in 2016. The groom is from transportation services. Castle Rock, Washington, and is the son of Tribal members Kevin and Beth Ward and the Cowlitz Tribe Transit Service is a public transit service available to rural residents in grandson of Yvonne Ward and Margaret Melton. He received his bachelor’s degree in History South Lewis (Centralia Amtrak Station) and Cowlitz Counties who live up to 20 miles from Washington State University in 2015, and will graduate with a bachelor’s degree in from the Interstate 5 corridor. Rides include access to life sustaining and non-life sustaining medical appointments, shopping, cultural or quality of life activities. Science Education in 2020 from Western Governors University.
Expanded Medical Transport Program is a public transport program available to rural residents in Clark, Cowlitz, and Lewis Counties who are over the age of 50 and/or The couple lives in Castle Rock, Washington, with their pets, Nala and Fitzgerald. Ryan is a individuals with disabilities. The Expanded Medical Transport Program provides rides 9th grade science teacher at Castle Rock High School and Allison is a 3rd grade elementary north to Olympia and South to Vancouver to increase access to medical appointments such as; specialty medicine, diagnostic facilities, cancer treatment centers and hospitals. teacher at St. Helens Elementary. *Clark County residents must live outside of the C-tran bus system and their respective Public Transportation Benefit Area (PTBA).
Tribal Medicaid Transport is for Indian Health Services (IHS) beneficiaries and their descendants who hold a current ProviderOne card who are in need of transportation to GRADUATION ANNOUNCEMENT medically necessary appointment. Individuals must live within a 60 mile radius of the Cowlitz Indian Tribe Health Clinic, meet the Medicaid criteria and have exhausted all other transportation options. Korine Porter
All of the above services include door-to-door assistance to and from the vehicle when needed. Our vehicles are equipped with lifts to make boarding easier for passengers Leandra Korine Porter, Cowlitz Tribal member, who use wheelchairs, mobility devices, or have difficulty negotiating steps. Rides should graduated on July 20, 2020, with her master of be scheduled a few days in advance to assure availability. The dispatcher will make every effort to accommodate your requested trip schedule. Fares are funded through greatly arts in English Language Learning from Western appreciated donations. Governors University. The Cowlitz Tribe Transit Service and Transport Programs comply with all federal requirements under the Title VI law, which prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, Leandra has a passion for teaching and a love color, or national origin. for children. She is a dedicated educator who Look for us on Facebook advocates for her students and their well-being. Cowlitz Tribe Transportation and Transit Services She is kind, caring, and compassionate. She https://www.facebook.com/cowlitztribedotandtransitservices/ respects their individuality, and values them as important people with so much to offer. Leandra has the enthusiasm and passion to be a positive influence in the lives of her students, and they are lucky to have her as their teacher. Cowlitz Tribal News • Fall 2020 • 13
GRADUATION ANNOUNCEMENT Logann Golden Places I’ve Been I’ve walked the wild beaches and jumped their endless waves Logann Golden graduated from Castle Rock High played in piles of driftwood and explored the hidden caves School on June 12, 2020. She lettered four years in I’ve waded rambling rivers with water cold as ice volleyball and softball and two years in basketball. hiked the rugged mountains more than once or twice Logann is an active member of 4H and the I’ve camped in giant forests where moss hides from the light CRHS FFA program and has been a class officer sat around a campfire and talked into the night for four years and involved in her high school I’ve watched wild herds of roaming elk that felt no need to hide leadership class. She also played club volleyball looked into a clear blue sky to see an eagle glide with Excel NW 18 Rox. Logann received 13 local I’ve ridden busy ferries up and down the Puget Sound scholarships as well as the WSU MOU Tribal roamed the many harbors where fishing boats abound Scholarship and the Cowlitz IndianTribal Scholarship. I’ve fished in lakes wild and clear and the Pacific Ocean blue dug up clams, gathered smelt, and picked an oyster or two Logann will be attending Washington State University in Pullman, majoring in Interior I’ve spent many Indian Summers that were always slow to end Design and will be playing volleyball for the Washington State Women’s Volleyball team. watched the brightly colored leaves twirling in the Autumn wind I’ve been to Paradise ~ Sandra Marinsik-Cloquet She is the daughter of Tom and Tiffaney Golden, granddaughter of Tom and Jodi Golden, Dean and Sherry Schwinn, great granddaughter of the late Yvonne Ward.
Around the Farm
By Guest Contributor Autumn Forespring work on our plot. So far, I have had the wǝɫǝbʔaltxʷ – Intellectual House pleasure of gathering muck from Lake First Nations at UW, Fundraiser Chair Washington to plant Columbia River and B.S., Environmental Science East Coast wapato, planting corn, beans, and Resource Management squash, and Hopi watermelon, and working with the UW Farm staff washing produce Klahowyah! and performing other essential tasks.
My name is Autumn. I am a Cowlitz Tribal As an Indigenous woman, having a citizen and proud student worker at the connection with and respect for my wǝɫǝbʔaltxʷ – Intellectual House. A plot ancestral lands and the lands that I at the UW farm is dedicated to growing currently live on are essential to my Indigenous foods for the Indigenous everyday life. The farm is built on stolen population at the university. As a student Duwamish territories. Having space worker, part of my job description is to for Indigenous foods to grow, and for Indigenous students to interact with the other farm employees and my small group plants, has been an important part of my of less than five Indigenous students, has experience as a Native undergraduate. been the highlight of the last few months No Longer With Us of relative isolation. The plot has been a We sadly report since our last edition First Nations (the Native undergraduate unifying place for those of us who used to the following tribal members have student group on campus) plans to harvest spend all of our time together before stay- been reported to have passed away: and use the crops in the wǝɫǝbʔaltxʷ plot at-home orders were put in place. Seeing to serve at our annual Taking Back the the corn grow from tiny kernels to big leafy Christopher Bruckner Dinner event, provided that we don’t have stalks as high as my waist is rewarding and Gary Knowles to cancel due to COVID-19 guidelines. exciting, and knowing that when it is safe Dolores Fox Another option may be to box the corn, to return to campus, the Native community Leonard Lane beans, and squash and distribute to first will be out among the stalks, harvesting and Dianne Friese nations students living in Seattle. being in community. Leslie Ockfen Cheryl Kennedy I look forward to the days each week that I Masi to Perry and Adam for keeping the George Ragan can make it out to the Farm. Tending to our farm running through these uncertain times, Edgar Kennedy Indigenous foods plot, weeding, watering, and masi to Peter for babysitting the plot on Rosalie Ragan-Larsen Autumn’s work in the garden and sharing space (from 6 ft apart) with the days that I cannot be at the farm! 14 • Cowlitz Tribal News • Fall 2020
Cowlitz Tribal Council
Top Back: Cassandra Sellards-Reck, Debbie Hassler, Tim Van Mechelen, Steve Kutz, Celine Cloquet, Dave Barnett, Whitney Mosback, Dan Meyer, Christine Dupres, Karissa Lowe, Justice Rhodes, Ty Koch (resigned). Front Row: Phil Harju, Nancy Osborne, Robin Torner, Mike Iyall, Katherine Iyall-Vasquez, Patty Kinsaw-Gaiser, Bill Iyall (resigned), Rourk Monohon (resigned), Jerry Iyall, Don Walkinshaw Sr.
Name Role Term Email Name Role Term Email *Philip Harju GC-Chairman 2021 [email protected] Katherine Iyall Vasquez Member 2021 [email protected] Vacant GC-Vice Chair Justice Rhodes Member 2021 [email protected] *Nancy Osborne GC-Secretary 2021 [email protected] Patty Kinswa-Gaiser Member 2021 [email protected] *Dan Meyer GC-Treasurer 2020 [email protected] Tom Childs Member 2021 [email protected] *Steve Kutz TC-Chairman 2021 [email protected] Celine Cloquet Member 2022 [email protected] *Debbie Hassler TC-Vice Chair 2020 [email protected] Tim Van Mechelen Member 2022 [email protected] *Whitney Mosback TC-Secretary 2021 [email protected] Don Walkinshaw Sr. Member 2022 [email protected] *Jerry Iyall TC-At Large Rep. 2022 [email protected] Cassandra Sellards Reck Member 2022 [email protected] *Karissa Lowe TC-At Large Rep. 2020 [email protected] Dave Barnett Member 2022 [email protected]
Mike Iyall Member 2020 [email protected] *Denotes Executive Council Member | GC = General Council | TC = Tribal Council Christine Dupres Member 2020 [email protected] Robin Torner Member 2020 [email protected] Cowlitz Tribal Council | [email protected] Aaron Workman Member 2020 [email protected] Cowlitz Tribal News • Fall 2020 • 15
Boards & Committees
CULTURAL RESOURCES BOARD EDUCATION COMMITTEE Steve Kutz Chair [email protected] Gregg Ford Chair [email protected] Debbie Hassler Vice Chair [email protected] David Iyall Vice Chair [email protected] Cassandra Sellards Reck Secretary [email protected] Timi Russin Secretary [email protected] Tanna Engdahl Spiritual Leader Committee Email: [email protected] HEALTH BOARD Committee web link: www.cowlitz.org/resources/education.html Cassandra Sellards Reck Chair [email protected] ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE Debbie Hassler Vice Chair [email protected] Tim Van Mechelen Chair [email protected] Charity Sabido-Hodges Secretary [email protected] Whitney Mosback Vice Chair [email protected] HOUSING BOARD Don Wakinshaw, Jr. Secretary [email protected] Dustin Griggs Chair [email protected] ENROLLMENT COMMITTEE Vacant Vice chair Nancy Osborne Chair [email protected] Beth Ward Treasurer [email protected] Cathy Raphael Enrollment Officer [email protected] Linda Turnbull Secretary [email protected] REVENUE REVIEW COMMITTEE YOUTH BOARD Dan Meyer Chairman [email protected] Cassandra Sellards Reck Chair [email protected] Vacant Treasurer Donna Bagley Vice Chair [email protected] STRATEGIC PLANNING Charity Sabido-Hodges Secretary [email protected] Jerry Iyall Chair [email protected] Devin Reck Youth Advocate [email protected] Debbie Hassler Vice Chair [email protected] COWLITZ TRIBAL GAMING AUTHORITY Diane Riley Secretary [email protected] Sonny Bridges Chair [email protected] CANOE FAMILY Bill Iyall Vice Chair [email protected] Devin Reck Chair [email protected] Philip Harju [email protected] John O’Brien Vice Chair [email protected] Karissa Lowe [email protected] Cathy Sellards Treasurer [email protected] COWLITZ TRIBAL GAMING COMMISSION Rachael Paige Secretary [email protected] Jerry Iyall Chair [email protected] DRUM GROUP Celine Cloquet Vice Chair [email protected] Cassandra Sellards Reck Chair [email protected] Kristen Hitchcock Secretary [email protected] Steve Kutz Vice Chair [email protected] Gregg Ford Treasurer [email protected] Melody Pfeifer Secretary [email protected] Donald Walkinshaw Commissioner [email protected] POW WOW COMMITTEE Kris Dillehay Chair [email protected] Nathan Hooten Vice Chair [email protected] Jane Meyers Treasurer [email protected] Nicole Vasquez Secretary [email protected] 16 • Cowlitz Tribal News • Fall 2020
By Jerry Iyall, consolidate communications resources; By Tanna The world of Spirit was charged with Strategic strategic increase infrastructure and capacity to Spirit Life Engdahl, highly evolved connection points with planning support the Tribal Council and the Tribal Spiritual every identity in which the mind could see, Planning chair Administrative offices; and identify a Force Leader hear, feel, taste, touch, smell, or even had Communications Committee to transition a “feeling” about. The nations comprised of The Cowlitz Tribe has hired the Setting to a Government Public Affairs and Our Cowlitz ancestors believed in circles, four-leggeds, winged, swimmers, crawlers, Sun Institute (SSI) to help Tribal Council Communications Committee to increase seasons, cycles, and interconnection of all plants, stones, mountains, water, earth implement Goals #6 “Work better together” capacity and provide oversight comprised life forms. It was a common thread through elements, and solar bodies were respected and #2 “Provide enhanced, transparent, of Tribal Council members, Department all the villages spread out along river equally as part of the spiritual essence of meaningful communication” of our directors, and other Tribal leaders. systems in the vast territories of mountain the life source and life surround. Comprehensive Plan. SSI is led by former and prairie landscapes. The constant flow Lummi Tribal Chairmen Darrell Hillaire We hope to quickly implement some of life was enabled by a higher unseen With the introduction of new people and Jay Julius, as well as Debra Lekanoff. of these ideas being pursued, including power thought to be a creative energy. from distant places, the tribal world We felt they were the right choice to lead us increased use of the Tribes Portal for Village culture was structured to always be changed. Village life ceased in the chaos through this work because of their expertise video casts or podcasts before and after aware, be thankful, and to live in such a of disease, land interferences, and the and experience. They have gone through Tribal Council meetings, to announce new way as to honor this life force. dramatic reduction of tribal populations. many of the same challenges we are facing. GWE programs, developments such as The Spiritual state was cast as superstition distribution of CARES Act funds, and other Across ancient time zones, Villagers and the native populations categorized as Because of COVID-19, we have been topics of interest to Tribal members. We will developed behavior protocols that pagans. It became a mission to redefine unable to meet in person. We have had also make more use of communication tools, would maintain this tribute, provided a spiritually, narrow its effect, and package several online Tribal Council retreats that such as social media, emails, e-newsletters, choreography for living with others in it in a new form called religion, which was are shorter in duration. For these retreats, Cowlitz website, and video casts or podcasts. compact village life, and harmonized two- presented in a variety of modalities. we have the following goals: 1) work better legged survival tactics with the natural world. together as a governing body; 2) develop We will also be working with SSI to develop There was a god in this religion and a Tribal Council Governance Manual a dispute resolution process for disputes The Spiritual nature of each individual was it contained some trace elements of and job descriptions defining roles and among Tribal Council members, as well encouraged by teachers, relatives, those spirituality known to native populations. responsibilities of Tribal Council members as disputes that involve Tribal Council associated with the Spirit realm, and even But one horrifying fundamental aspect of and others; 3) work to identify gaps and members, Tribal boards, committees, and those who crossed over into the next life. this imposed religion was the strangely prioritize professional trainings for Tribal Tribal Administrative managers. Adjustments were swift for those whose convoluted phrase “dominion over land Council; and 4) improve communications actions undermined the delicate balance and water” resources. Thousands of secular amongst Tribal Council members, between Some of these things may have changed, as of spiritual reverence and the principles by acts to change and reform landscapes were Tribal Council and Tribal membership, time has passed from the creation of this which village life operated. protected within the strong messaging of and between the Tribal Council and Tribal article. The Strategic Planning Committee “dominion over” as a god-given right. government operations. members are myself Jerry Iyall as Chair, Life was in constant motion, constant Debbie Hassler as Vice Chair, Diane production, constant harvesting. Life It is a troubling premise even today, As of the writing of this article, we are Riley as Secretary, and Dan Meyer, Phil lists were long: daily chores, seasonal regardless of generations of native working on improving communication. Harju, Kim Stube, and Kristopher Kitz. preparations, raising children, assisting absorption into religious patterns. In One of the things we hear most often from Selena Hanson, Dave Martinson, Amanda elders, repairs, creative arts, new fact, spiritual linkages have attracted Tribal members, is that we need to improve Workman, and Orlando Moreno are also construction, building maintenance, non-Native citizenry who now see the communication with Tribal members, key contributors to this committee. With teaching, researching, storytelling, village absence of harmony in earth practices as so we are developing a comprehensive the retirement of my brother as Tribal safety and defense alerts, visitation, blundering errors. Assaults on the natural Communication Strategy with SSI. Chairman, Phil Harju moves into that role journeys, hunting expeditions, spiritual world have caused so many imbalances Following are some of the things being creating a vacancy on this committee for journeys, vision quests, solar observances, that the dominant societies now battle considered to improve communication: a Tribal Council member that we will fill ceremonial or potlatch preparations, and each other mostly in a uniquely developed form a Governmental Public Affairs shortly. If you have questions or comments, endless counsel discussions concerning all legal framework. and Communications Office to build you can contact me at [email protected] of the above. Life was busy! communications infrastructure and With certain individual liberties returned Prayers, chants, songs, and meditations to whole masses of Natives and non- were infused in the individual and collective Natives alike, an abundance of Native groups as power connection aides. The populations returned unrestricted subtle difference is, the Cowlitz soul and to the enduring spiritual essence of weight of mind supported the collective former lifeways. Remarkably, the native body over individual dominance. There was continuum has the flexibility to retain rank based on individual and family skills religious patterning AND the spiritual and asset development/management, but connections of their ancestors. Spirituality entitlement based on a societal pyramid truly is a time-traveling, amazing structure was unknown, so NO kings, connective gift of the creative life source. emperors, khans, demi-gods, or dictators. Cowlitz Tribal News • Fall 2020 • 17 Mental Health Resources National Eagle Repository Avoiding the Emergency Room
As we go through these challenging times, it is services that these helplines offer is especially Interested in having eagle feathers for an upcoming our community that makes us stronger. Even vital during times of physical distancing and ceremony? Native Americans for thousands of years have though we are under recommendations for are an essential service during COVID-19. utilized eagle feathers for cultural and religious purposes. continued social distancing and safe practices, These helplines may be used to overcome Enrolled members of federally recognized tribes aged the outbreak of the coronavirus disease barriers of access to services caused by 18 and older can apply to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife (COVID-19) may be stressful for people distance or unavailability of in-person mental Service’s National Eagle Repository for eagle parts. and the community. Fear and anxiety can be health support and can prevent unnecessary overwhelming and cause strong emotions in exposure during the coronavirus pandemic. You can order up to one whole Golden or Bald adults and children. In addition to the recent Eagle, loose feathers, wings, a whole tail, a head, loss of community members, it may initiate These may be tough decisions to make, talons, or a trunk. Members can find more feeling confused, overwhelmed, or powerless however reaching out and helping others information and a link under the Cultural during this infectious disease outbreak. protects ourselves, our families, friends, and Resources tab on www.cowlitz.org. tribal communities. We are deeply grateful for We understand it may be difficult to maintain each of you and hope you can find moments If you need further information, please a physical distance to stop the spread of of peace as well as a connection during this contact Emma Johnson in Cultural COVID-19, especially when the need for time. Remember you are not alone, we are Resources. human connection and emotional closeness connected and we need you here. is at its peak. However, it is important we stay [email protected] connected with family and friends through Resources 360-577-6962 different forms of communication to ensure no one feels they are alone. • For Emotional Distress assistance, not related to suicidality, please call the If you or someone you care about talks about Disaster Distress Helpline at 1-800- wanting to die such as, “I just don’t want to 985-5990 or text “Talkwithus” to 66746. be here anymore,” or feels extreme sadness and is showing behaviors such as changes in • For concerns with suicide, please call the sleep or eating patterns, and/or wants to harm Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800- themselves, then we can take action to try to 273-8255 help and support them. • Text “TALK” to 741741 to connect with We are in this together, and help is available. the Crisis Textline If you’re feeling alone and struggling, you can reach out to the Crisis Text Line by • For Two Spirit LGBTQ+ crises call The texting “TALK” to 741741, or call the Trevor Project at 1-866-488-7386, or National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at text START to 678678, or check out 1-800-273-TALK (8255). TheTrevorProject.org
If you or someone you care about is feeling • County Crisis Lines or 211 in some areas anxious or overwhelmed related specifically to the COVID-19 pandemic and suicidality • We R Native wernative.org IS NOT a concern, you can call the Disaster Distress Helpline to help reduce emotional • National Suicide Prevention Lifeline distress, this number is 1-800-985-5990. Emotional Wellbeing During the COVID-19 Outbreak webpage: **Important Reminder – YOUR SAFETY suicidepreventionlifeline.org/current- IS IMPORTANT – so reducing possible events/supporting-your-emotional- exposure to COVID-19 is imperative. If you well-being-during-the-covid-19- or someone you know needs assistance outbreak/ with a mental health concern, please call the Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800- • CDC’s Managing Anxiety and Stress 273-8255, the Disaster Distress Helpline during COVID-19 webpage: cdc.gov/ at 1-800-985-5990 or your local crisis line. coronavirus/2019-ncov/prepare/ The accessible and free mental health crisis managing-stress-anxiety.html 18 • Cowlitz Tribal News • Fall 2020 Health Services New Employees Mental Health Substance Use Disorder Tara Taylor, Family Psychiatric ARNP Susan Galovin Cowlitz Indian Tribe has continued to the garden was in Puyallup; that was the Tara is a Member of the Nez Perce Sue Cow Creek from Oregon and Aleut provide much needed services to our first real job I ever had. I graduated with my Tribe (Lapwai, Idaho) and received her Alaskan Native, she is starting our new patients and clients. Our practices may have Master of Science in Nursing from Gonzaga Doctor of nursing Practice (DNP) and Native Only SUD Track for all AI/AN changed, but our purpose and commitment University in Spokane, and soon moved to her Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse patient in Longview and Vancouver. to our community have not. We would Bethel, Alaska, to work as a RN. I have prior Practitioner (PMHNP) credentials She will be helping to add to the Native like to welcome our new employees. We military service and was in both the Marines from Washington State University! curriculum (Red Road/Strengthening the are so blessed to have our vital providers, and US ARMY reserve, I was called up in She was born and raised on the Nez Spirit/Sacred Tree) with the input from who allow us to increase access for Tribal 1990 and went to Operation Desert Storm. Perce reservation in Lapwai, Idaho and Cowlitz Elder as she gets the program members. We are so excited to have many My spouse Vinera and I lived in Anchorage, worked as a triage RN at her local health going. She comes to the Cowlitz Tribe from new providers on staff. Alaska, the past 20 years. clinic by the name of Nimiipuu Health Lifeline in Vancouver and has had lots of (means “we the people” in Nez Perce). experience working in an environment Clinic Dr. Tavis Taylor, MD She recognized the great need for meeting patient where they are at. She Dr Taylor is a Board-Certified Internal mental health services as many patients has graduated with her bachelor’s from Randi Powell Sexton, FNP Medicine MD who closed his solo Internal were coming into minor care for Eastern Washington University. Currently “Hello everyone, I am honored to join Medicine primary care clinic on October anxiety/depression, and there weren’t she is working on receiving her master’s the Cowlitz team as a Family Nurse 1, 2015, and is pursuing semi-retirement. many options available. degree from City University of Seattle Practitioner with the Cowlitz Indian Tribal He has enjoyed almost 30 years of intense in Management and Change Leadership. Health Clinic in Longview. I enjoy working Internal Medicine practice in a variety Jody Hakkola, LMHC Susan and her family have spent their whole with patients of all ages and backgrounds of settings. He has provided care in very Jody joined the Cowlitz Tribal Mental lives in different areas of Cowlitz County with a special interest in chronic disease rural sites in Alaska, Hawaii, migrant Health team in August and will be and have always enjoyed the outdoor management, addiction medicine, and clinic California, tribal clinics in WA and working with youth and adult clients activities this area has provided growing women’s health. I was an ER nurse for Oklahoma. He spent 7 years with the in Longview. Up to this point in her up with many animals from horses, rabbits, a few years at a regional trauma center Pima Tohono O’odham tribe outside of career, she has served in the community goats, cats, and dogs; animals continue to be prior to going back to school to become Phoenix, AZ, in the 1990s, leaving there in mental health system. Jody has a strong a big part of her life, as her favorite thing to an FNP. Outside of work, I love running, 1999 as their CMO (chief medical officer) multicultural counseling framework do is to be at home with her pets. hiking, cooking, and adventuring with my and member of the governing board to and a great deal of experience providing husband, Connor. I am from the Northern return to his home town, Bremerton, WA. care to individuals with trauma. Jody Claire Beck Cheyenne tribe in Montana, and it is truly Dr. Taylor is a member of Association of has raised four sons and acknowledges Claire is Blackfoot and Shoshone; she an honor to serve our native population American Indian Physicians (AAIP). that she is beginning to feel the effects is our new Problem Gambling Program here. Thank you for having me!” of an empty nest! Jody has spent time Coordinator. For the last four and a half Dr Taylor has been a single parent raising living in various parts of the country, years, Claire has worked Red Canoe, most William “Bill” Erickson, FNP his two children in Kitsap County and including within the Hoopa Valley recently as an Assistant Manager, helping “Hello, I am Bill Erickson; I work in the enjoys his extended family and community. Tribal Community. with staffing needs and development and clinic as a Family Nurse Practitioner. I Now that his adult children are off to outreach in the community. Claire worked was Born in Tacoma, Washington, my their own pursuits, he can indulge in a When describing this time of her life, at the Cowlitz Tribe previously before Red Mother Bonnie was Born in Longview, and more flexible schedule to include travel she stated, “I believe this short, but Canoe and looked forward to the day when Grandma Sidney Earl-Anderson was Born and assisting underserved communities powerful experience gave me such a she could return to the important work in Vader. I am a Proud member of the at tribal/Indian Health Service sites and sacred moment in time, and expanded done here at the tribe. She is married to Cowlitz Indian Tribe, and it does feel good other clinics. Dr. Taylor’s extracurricular my outlook on life and ways of Jon; they live in Longview and have 4 dogs. to say that. An interesting fact about myself: activities include dancing, kayaking, beingness that have stayed with me all An interesting fact is that when Claire as a 14-year-old youth, I worked as one of camping, travel, theatre, movies, reading, these years later.” was 18, she backpacked through Egypt for the first Cowlitz Gardeners. Back in the day, meditation, and spiritual enrichment. nearly a month with a friend.
Struggling with Gambling? If you or a loved one is struggling with problem gambling, you can: There is hope for • Call one of the SUD departments at 360-575-3316 problem (Longview) or 360-947-2247 (Vancouver). gambling. • Call/text the National Council on Problem Gambling at 800-522-4700 for free and confidential help. Cowlitz Tribal News • Fall 2020 • 19
The Coping with best support at-home learning for parents who suddenly found themselves in the role COVID Interviews of teacher. Participation in the series was high, becoming a weekly routine for a lot of Nakʷs! ilani is proud to offer a formal By David Pulliam, MHP Tribal employees and a way to experience Tribal career growth & development something as a team, even though most of program. As the Career Development One would be hard pressed to remember us were isolated at home. Specialist, I look forward to working a year that has brought more unwanted with Cowlitz Tribal members to change to our lives than 2020. March came “I wanted there to be a sense of community,” develop career paths at ilani. on innocently enough but ended with remarked Celia, “to let people know that If you have been wondering what is swift and decisive change for most Cowlitz we were all in this together.” offered at ilani or where you could fit employees in response to the growing in, contact me! COVID-19 pandemic. With only a few Due to her work with this series, Celia was My hours are flexible, and I am happy days’ notice, we suddenly found ourselves invited to sit on Cowlitz Tribal Health and to answer any questions you have. working from home when possible or, when Human Service’s newly formed NPAIHB not possible, drastically altering our work Communication Team, which was funded routines in order to keep ourselves healthy through a grant from the Northwest Portland See what’s offered! and comply with CDC Area Indian Health Board. www.hrapply.com/ilani/setup.app regulations, mask mandates, “I wanted there The purpose of the team is and social distancing, while to increase communication still providing care and to be a sense of and awareness around issues support for patients and community,” related to COVID-19 within clients. Daily life changed our Tribal communities. seemingly overnight, as we remarked Celia, This includes getting struggled to transition to a “to let people information out to the new normal both personally public about changes and professionally and do know that we in Tribal services as well everything we could to were all in this as general self-care and ATTENTION PARENTS! “flatten the curve.” wellness. Celia’s ‘Coping ATTENTIONWe can help with your c hPAREild care cost NTS! together.” with COVID’ series ATTENTIONATTENTIONWe can help w PAREiPAREth your chiNTldNT carS!S!eS! co st Family Size of 2: $0-4,420 Qualifications: It was in the early stages of certainly falls into this latter NetWW Incomeee can Requirement help wwiitthh yyoouurr cchhilildld c caarere c coosstts t this transition that the mental health team category. The hope is that the committee will Family Family Size Size of 3: of 2:$0 -5,460$0-4,420 Qualifications: was asked to brainstorm some ideas of how identify a platform where the series can be FamilyFamily Size of 2: $0--4,4204,420 Enrolled in a federally Family Family Size Sizeof 2: of 4: $0-4,420 Qualifications:Qualifications: Family Size of 3:$0 -6,499$0-5,460 Qualifications: to best support Cowlitz employees through posted and accessed by Tribal employees FamilyFamily Size of 3: $0--5,4605,460 recognized tribe. Family Family Size Sizeof 3: of 5: $0-5,460$0-7,540 Enrolled in a federally Family Size of 4: $0-6,499 this stressful time. Celia Delaney, Licensed and perhaps even the general public. EnrolledEnrolled Reside in in Lewis,a a federally federally Family Size of 4: Enrolled in a federally FamilyFamily Family SizeSize Sizeof 4: of 6: $0--6,499$06,499-8,579 recognized tribe. Mental Health Counselor, has been a part Family Size of 5: $0-7,540 recognizedrecognizedCowlitz, Clark, tribe.tribe. tribe. or Family Size of 5: $0-7,540 of Cowlitz Tribal Mental Health for six As we continue to adapt to our ever- FamilyFamilyFamily SizeSize Sizeof 5: of 7: $0--7,540$07,540-8,775 Skamania Reside County. in Lewis, Family Size of 6: $0-8,579 ResideReside in in Lewis, Lewis, years. She agreed to take on this task and changing environment, there is no doubt Reside in Lewis, FamilyFamily Family Size Sizeof 6: of 8: $0--8,579$08,579-8,970 Cowlitz, Clark, or Family Size of 6: $0-8,579 Cowlitz, Have a Clark,child between or Family Size of 7: $0-8,775 Cowlitz,Cowlitz, Clark, Clark, or or created what she would call the “Coping the series came along at just the right time, Family Size of 7: $0-8,775 the age Skamaniaof 4 weeks County. FamilyFamily SizeSize of 7: It’s $0--8,7758,775 SkamaniaSkamania County.County. County. with COVID” interview series. The goal of offering support, stability, and unity. Family Size of 8: $0-8,970 and 12 years old. Family Size of 8:easy to$0 -8,970 Have a child between FamilyFamily SizeSize of 8: $0--8,9708,970 the series would be to share the combined HaveHave a a child child between between apply! Employed, enrolled in the age ofthe 4 weeks age of 4 weeks knowledge, skills, and resources of Tribal Celia noted, “We were able to hear from a It’s It’s thethe age age of of 4 4weeks weeks It’s school, andjob training 12 years or old. employees in order to help the Tribal lot of voices during the series. My hope is easy to easy to and 12 years old.old. Walkeasy-ins to are welcome andsearching. 12 years old. workforce as a whole. She would do this that it helped others build some insight and apply! Cowlitzapply! Indian Tribe Employed,Employed, enrolled in enrolled in apply! Employed,Employed, enrolled enrolled in in by embracing the new Microsoft Teams coping skills through a difficult time.” Child Care and Development Program school, jobschool, training job or training or 1055 9th Ave. Suite D school,school, job job training training or or program as a platform for streaming live Walk-Longview,insWalk are -welcomeins WA are 98632 welcome searching.searching. interviews over the lunch hour. WalkWalk--insins are welcome searching. Cowlitz Indian Tribe CowlitzCowlitz CowlitzIndian Tribe Indian Tribe Child Care and DevelopmentOR Contact Program ChildChild CareCareChild andand Care Development and Development ProgramProgram Program “I knew I was surrounded by smart people,” Nichole1055 9th Meyers1055 Ave. 9th Suiteat 360 Ave. D-353 Suite-9524 D 1055 [email protected] Ave. Suite D says Celia, “I just wanted to pick their Longview,Longview, WA 98632 WA 98632 Longview,Ann Little WA at 98632360-353 -9528 brains in order to get more insight about [email protected] OR ContactOR Contact coping with stress and building skills.” Nichole MeyersOR Contact at 360-353-9524 NicholeNichole Meyers Meyersat 360-353 at -3609524-353 -9524 [email protected] Meyers at 360-353-9524 [email protected]@cowlitz.org The interview topics ranged from discussions [email protected] Little at 360-353-9528 Ann Little at 360-353-9528 Ann [email protected] at 360-353-9528 on mindfulness, cognitive behavioral therapy, [email protected]@cowlitz.org and general resiliency, to ideas of how to talk to kids about the pandemic, reduce fear, and 20 • Cowlitz Tribal News • Fall 2020
Gambling is fun for most, By Claire Beck, Positive Indian Parenting Problem Gambling but a problem for some Program Coordinator Honoring Our Children by Honoring Our Traditions
The Substance Use Disorder (SUD) growing concern that could be a gateway Several Cowlitz employees were trained in The curriculum runs for eight weeks, Program is now offering assistance to to gambling problems are video games facilitating the training for Native families. with one two-hour session per week. All individuals who are struggling with and mobile games that prompt you to In the middle of August, Kat Alexander sessions are held online. The following Problem Gambling behaviors. The Problem continually pay in order to reach the next and Charity Williams began the first class topics are covered: Traditional Parenting, Gambling program is generously funded level or collect items you need to advance. of Positive Indian Parenting (PIP) with Lessons of the Storyteller, Lessons of the by ilani, and treatment services are free. two families. Tanya Beltz, from Child Cradleboard, Harmony in Childrearing, We encourage anyone who feels they or Gambling should be engaged in as Care & Development Program was our Traditional Behavior Management, a family member may be struggling with entertainment only and while it is fun. There first “guest” participant, and the parents Lessons of Mother Nature, Praise in problem gambling to reach out to us. are many things you can do to make sure enjoyed her contribution and interaction. Traditional Parenting, and Choices in you are gambling responsibly, including: We will feature different guests in our Parenting. All supplies are provided to Some signs of a gambling problem include: upcoming classes, such as Susan Galovin, parents each week as part of each lesson. • Setting time and money limits and SUD Therapist, and Patty Kinswa-Gaiser, For example, Lessons of the Storyteller • A growing preoccupation with gambling. sticking to them. Cowlitz Elder—to mention a few. will include age-appropriate Native • Lying about wins and losses. • Only gamble when it’s fun. American-authored books, the Lesson of • A need to bet more money, more frequently. • Don’t use gambling as a means to gain “PIP curriculum is designed to provide Walking in a Child’s Moccasins, and a • Losing track of time while gambling. financial stability. a brief, practical, and culturally specific moccasin kit for the parents to make for • Neglecting family members or friends in • Never borrow money to gamble. training program for Indian parents. The their child. The photo above is part of the order to gamble. • Don’t gamble when you are in distress first goal of the curriculum is to help Indian Lessons of Mother Nature. • Loss of control in spite of negative or as a way to cope with emotional or parents explore the values and attitudes consequences. physical pain. expressed in traditional Indian child- Sign up for the upcoming classes, once we rearing practices and then to apply those have four families on the wait list, we will Gambling is simply risking something of Stay tuned for more information about values to modern parenting skills. Since begin another session. Call/Text 360-827- value for a potential reward that you may Problem Gambling and some other there is no one tradition among Indian 0102 for Kat Alexander, from the SUD or may not get. Things people gamble information and resources to support people for child-rearing, several examples Department in Longview. Check out the on can also include lotteries, dice and/or financial literacy and independence! from numerous tribes are used. When we Facebook page “Positive Indian Parenting” card games, sports, as well as table games speak of traditional, we are referring to for more info at facebook.com/PIPwithCIT. and electronic games found in casinos. A [email protected] the old ways—ways that existed prior to the white influence. Because the concept of traditional varies Murdered and Missing Cowlitz among people, we By Debbie Hassler will refer to these ways as old ways or The Pathways to Healing historical ways. It is (PTH) needs your help. up to each individual One of the focus areas using the material for our Coordinated to tailor the old Community Response ways to fit their own Team (CCRT) is data community.” collection around Missing and Murdered Cowlitz “A second goal members. What do we of the Positive need from you? If you Indian Parenting have a loved one or know curriculum is a family with a loved to help parents one, who is missing or develop positive and has been murdered, please contact Debbie Hassler, Program Manager at dhassler@ satisfying attitudes, cowitz.org, 360-624-7040 or Karyn Kameroff, PTH Coordinator at kkameroff@cowlitz. values, and skills that org, 360-846-3304 to share your story with us. We are collecting information on men, have roots in their women, and children. We also want to hear from you, as our community, about what is cultural heritage.” important to you regarding victim services and how we can help get the word out, help – Positive Indian families, and strengthen our community. Parenting Manual Cowlitz Tribal News • Fall 2020 • 21 Indian Child Welfare Program updates
• ICW has a surplus of diapers and wipes Tribe in January 2020. The Positive Indian in late 2019 to increase that are available for Tribal families. See Parenting (PIP) Pilot Evaluation project clarity and streamline Caseworkers to obtain them. They are has accomplished the following: questionnaires to reduce also available for home delivery. Please burden on families who coordinate with the ICW team. There • Collaborated with the Cowlitz Indian choose to participate in the are now ICW workers in Vancouver, Child Welfare program staff and elders study. A full study protocol Longview, and Tukwila to help families. to record local cultural stories and and the revised study Dial 360-575-3307 for a liaison near you. content for use with all families who will materials were submitted receive PIP. Final editing of the videos is to the BRANY Institutional • School supplies can be provided on a in progress in coordination with partners Review Board (IRB) in case by case and need basis from the at Casey Family Programs. Much May. Minor revisions were ICWA unit to ICW cases. appreciation to Patty Kinswa-Gaiser for made in response to the IRB the cultural supports. review, and formal approval • ICWA Program reached a 50 percent was received in July. ICW team June 2020: Mike Yates, Antonia Bancroft, DJ rate of prevention cases in ratio to the • Delivered a presentation on the study Personius, and Andrea French. Congratulations to DJ for totality of dependency cases briefly this goals and partnership at NICWA’s annual • Trained all Cowlitz PIP her achievement on obtaining her MSW! summer. This is good news, less cases in conference in March, with presenters Trainers in the in-home court and more families intact. from NICWA, Child Trends, and the PIP model and prepared a delivered via loanable equipment or with Cowlitz Indian Child Welfare program. fidelity monitoring protocol. social distancing. Please contact Andrea An agreement was executed between the French at 360-831-1950 to get more National Indian Child Welfare Association • Made minor revisions to the study The intensive in-home Positive Indian information and sign up. Lessons can be (NICWA), Child Trends, and the Cowlitz materials reviewed by the Tribal Council Parenting lessons are available to be provided in Washington or Oregon.
By Penney Wilson, Pathways to Healing Advocate When You What stage are you? • Not interested in quitting. Suddenly everything is different, seemingly where you are, we are available to help Are Ready, • Starting to think about quitting. overnight our world has changed. We and are just a phone call away. We have • Starting to think how. have become a world of masks, physical three locations, Vancouver 360-355-5921, Support is Here • Wanting to know more about options. distancing, and social unrest. The way we Longview 360-957-8917, and Tukwila • Ready to talk to someone about spend time with family and friends, the 206-771-1422. Please reach out, we are Did you know that a commercial tobacco making a quit plan. way we communicate, travel, work, and here with resources, information, referrals, user tries an average of 11 times to quit • Setting a quit date. so much more has changed. Everything assistance, and the realization that even smoking? Quitting cold turkey is only • Quit but struggling with what to do has become more difficult, unfamiliar and, in a time of such uncertainty there is successful 7 percent of the time? That with cravings. sadly at times, less safe. With so hope. While many things have people who get support with their quit are • Having slips but trying again. many drastic changes in our changed, our commitment to two times more likely to quit for good? The • Quit for years and relapsed. lives we may experience our community has not! We quit journey is not easy and very personal. • Ready to try again. feelings of fear, anxiety, are still here, and though uncertainty, anger, and we have had to adapt to the There is no ONE way to begin a journey isolation. The world seems current situation, we are of quitting commercial tobacco. With the a more dangerous, darker still able to help support Cowlitz Indian Tribe’s Cessation Support No matter where you are on the different place for many, and for you. It is easy to get lost Program, now it is easier to help clear the stages of readiness listed above, DeAnna is those already living with in the isolation of what we underbrush to help you find your path in here WHEN YOU are ready. violence or abuse, things are all going through, but becoming commercial tobacco free. may have become much if you or someone you know Contact: worse. For those who may is experiencing violence The Cessation Support Program offers DeAnna Pearl, be experiencing violence or abuse, please reach information, support, planning, and free NRT Tobacco Prevention and Cessation or abuse, please know out. Our advocates are (nicotine replacement thearpy) if applicable to any Specialist that there is help experienced, caring, Tribal member. Far away or close? We can meet Cowlitz Indian Tribe available through non-judgmental, and online or by telephone. If you have concerns about Health Clinic the Cowlitz Tribe are here to help. your health when trying, contact your provider. [email protected] Office: 360-353-9533 Pathways to Healing You are not alone. You can also call 1-800-784-8669 or Quitline.com Cell: 360-353-0640 program. No matter from wherever you are for more information. 22 • Cowlitz Tribal News • Fall 2020
Healing of the Canoe Cowlitz Tribal Housing Healing of the Canoe (HOC) staff Some programs are provided only in to live at the complex is 62. In order to had the opportunity to support our Washington state; applicants must be an live at the facility, applicants must be families during this time with food enrolled member of the Cowlitz Tribe or an low-income, be an enrolled member boxes, weekly cultural activities, American Indian/Alaskan Native (AIAN). of a federally recognized Indian tribe virtual QPR for youth, Tobacco and pass a background check, reference Education (by DeAnna Pearl), and Housing and Urban Development check, and drug screening. virtual HOC classes. We have been (HUD) regulations and Cowlitz working hard to help support our Indian Tribal Housing (CITH) policies Standard Rental and families and help them fill needs regarding applicants and homes apply to Mortgage Assistance during this time. We are currently all programs. Tribal Housing assists qualifying low- working on virtual options for the income Tribal members with rent or school year, so please be on the *In addition to the programs listed below, mortgage payments for up to six months. lookout for class starting dates. with casino funding, we are currently Please contact Vashti at 360-353- able to help qualifying Cowlitz members Student Rental Assistance 9547 or Ali at 360-353-9535 for more with household incomes of up to 150 Student Rental Assistance is available information and if you would like percent of the median income with the for full-time college students, anywhere Pictured: Ella Kulman, Vera Shulz, Zowie Ramirez, to be contacted once we launch the following programs *while funding in the United States. HUD rules apply, Bradlee and Hayden Lewis school year sessions. lasts*: Down payment assistance and except income guidelines that are student rental assistance anywhere in expanded by casino funding. QPR stands for Question, Persuade, and Refer. The QPR Institute mission is to reduce suicidal the United States; and for elders, the behaviors and save lives by providing innovative, practical and proven suicide prevention training. Aging in Place program which provides Elder Rental and Mortgage Assistance limited home repairs/rehab and We assist qualifying low-income assistance with homeowners insurance Cowlitz elders (age 62+) with a portion Youth Program and property taxes in Idaho, Oregon, of their rent or mortgage payment By Melanie Mariano, California and Washington state. each month until the lifetime limit of Nike Backpack Gifts Youth Program Manager $50,000 is reached. SERVICES In August and September, the Cowlitz Youth Program partnered with Nike and its N7 Home Rehab/Repair program to provide all 500+ enrolled Cowlitz Youth between the ages of 7–17 with Down Payment Assistance With HUD funds, we repair qualifying Nike backpacks full of various department swag (including ilani swag) and a gift card Your Tribal Housing Department is low-income Tribal members’ homes for school supplies. We had a few distribution locations at Toledo, Lacey, and ilani, our proud of our vigorous down payment to provide a decent, safe, and sanitary casino, for those living within Washington state. To enrolled families living outside of assistance program, where qualifying place to live. We serve most of the state Washington who could not come and pick up a backpack, the Youth Program began tribal families anywhere in the United of Washington with this program. mailing them out beginning in September. States can receive up to $35,000 as a down payment on their primary Help to Avoid Foreclosure If you live out of state and are not sure if we have the correct residence. This program is growing In some cases, we can help low-income YOUTH PROGRAM mailing address, or it has recently changed, contact the by leaps and bounds and has helped tribal families avoid foreclosure. COORDINATOR Enrollment Office at [email protected] to ensure we Melody Lopez many Cowlitz families realize the Restrictions apply; call for further have the correct mailing address on file. American Dream of Homeownership! information and an application. VOLUNTEER Some restrictions apply; call for further Myrihe Rohbock information, and an application. Well and Sewer Repair or YOUTH COUNCIL Replacement MEMBERS Meya Rohbock Elder Housing Apartments In certain geographical areas, Indian Stacie Spahr Cowlitz Indian Tribal Housing Health Services (IHS) provides help Bailey Simper welcomes you to the Tribe’s Housing with sanitation facilities, such as sewer, Nigel Barnett complex, Cowlitz Village, located in septic, and water to Tribal homeowners.
INTERN Toledo, Wash. Accommodation choices Cowlitz Tribal Housing is the designated Sandee Spahr are efficiency apartments and one- area representative for Indian Health
YOUTH COUNCIL bedroom units. Rents are calculated Scattered Site projects—we issue ADVISOR on a sliding scale according to income. applications and forward to IHS. Theresa Shortman Small pets (one dog or cat) are welcome.
YOUTH PROGRAM Cowlitz Village is an independent For applications or information, call MANAGER living complex, not an assisted living us at 360-864-8720 or email us at Melanie Mariano facility. The minimum age requirement [email protected]. Cynthia Reck Cowlitz Tribal News • Fall 2020 • 23 Youth Program—Virtual Gatherings
By Melanie Mariano, Youth program Manager We had two live guests on Tuesday, August Coordinator). Tanna 25: Dave Barnett, who spoke to our youth Engdahl, our spiritual As a result of the spread of COVID-19, about being proud of who they are, and leader, recorded a the Cowlitz Youth Program’s annual Abram Benally, taking live questions blessing for our youth, summer camp at Yelm, Washington, was about his experiences on American Ninja and Chairman Harju canceled causing us to be unable to host it Warrior. Also broadcasting live both days, kicked off the event this year. However, in light of the inability our own Melody Lopez, Youth Program with a special message to have an in-person summer camp, the Coordinator, told Cowlitz stories, passed to Cowlitz Youth. Youth Program decided to host a two-day down from her grandfather. virtual event through Microsoft Teams. Guest presenters On August 24 and 25, the Youth Program Pre-recorded Cowlitz cultural pieces on included: A lesson held “Virtual Gatherings” broadcasting live language (Michael Hubbs), canoe culture on how to play the Melanie live-streaming as Emcee from St. Mary’s, with me, Youth Program (John O’Brien), and herbal medicines stick game from Manager Melanie Mariano, as the emcee. (Rhonda Grantham) were shown, along LoVina Louie (Coeur d’Alene) from We called this event “Virtual Gatherings,” We had roughly 15–25 viewers at any given with one about our community garden Native Wellness Institute; a message of because we shared not only pieces of our time, watching the broadcasts each day. at St. Mary’s (Cindy Callahan, Garden inspiration from Indigenous rap artist and own Salish culture, but also incorporated MTV VMA winner Supaman Hip Hop wisdom, advice, and motivational (Apsaalooke); Calisthenic fitness and yoga speeches from Indigenous mentors workouts from American Ninja Warrior around Indian Country. competitor Abram Benally (Navajo); Goals Motivation from Strong Warriors’ own The silver lining in not having the summer Toqua Ticeahkie (Comanche); and Hoop camp this year is that we’re able to reach Dance Lessons from champion dancer Ella out to many more of our Cowlitz youth Bearsheart (Lakota). There were also special across the country who would otherwise messages from Nike N7 Ambassadors: not be able to attend our five-day camp up Lauren Schad (Cheyenne River Sioux) in Yelm, Washington. As a “first” for this from her volleyball training in France type of event for our Cowlitz Tribe, we plan and former WNBA player Jude Schimmel to utilize this platform again in the future (Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla to reach more of our youth families across Reservation, Ore.). All presenters spoke the country during COVID-19/social about staying connected/safe and shared distancing and hope that other programs positive messages in these uncertain times move in this direction, too. Dream-catcher Making video; one of the videos shown during the live streaming. during the pandemic.
Senior Nutrition COVID-19 When COVID-19 struck, the staff at St. thank you because we’ve sent a letter out Greetings from the Mary’s in Toledo provided essential help to right away to them letting them know tribal elders. The kitchen staff, led by Deb that we’re here for them, even if it’s just Elders of Cowlitz Village Mizner, provided meals to elders who were for conversation. I can’t even tell you how at greater risk of harm from the pandemic. grateful they are.” The Elders of Cowlitz Village wish to send our best wishes and blessings to the many amazing young Cowlitz who recently started “Since COVID started, we jumped in While the amount of meals has fluctuated, their schooling and classes for the new school year. It has been a right away and started reaching out to the dedication of the staff at St. Marys strange year full of change and confusion; but as is our nature, we our homebound and elders who are out remains strongly focused on providing shall adjust and bend with the winds of change. Here is our blessing: of our area to make sure that they were vital assistance to elders of the Cowlitz getting what they needed,” said Mizner. Indian Tribe. Looking ahead, Mizner “Our children, it is your day. May your road be fulfilled reaching to “We went from serving about 150 meals a underlined the dedication her staff has the road of your ancestors. When your road is fulfilled, may we be the week to, our highest number, which was to the elders, saying, “We’ve been doing ones your thoughts will embrace. May you help us all finish our roads, 1,300 in a week. The elders are extremely this (meal outreach) since COVID started for this, we give honor to the ancestors.” Aho overwhelmed and thankful. They’re so and we will continue until the need and thankful. We’ve had elders call just to say COVID have gone away.” 24 • Cowlitz Tribal News • Fall 2020
protection of cultural sites Public Safety Department and in the future, jurisdiction By Donald R. Walkinshaw Sr., Director of Public Safety on the water to enforce state Entry Level and federal wildlife offenses. Greetings Cowlitz members. It is a and construction of the hotel We have always strived to Police Officer very exciting time for the Public Safety in 2021, we are examining provide Cowlitz members, Department, the ilani resort, our tribal proper staffing requirements programs, and business The Cowlitz Indian Tribe’s members, and our tribe. The Cowlitz Indian to ensure a safe environment ventures with any assistance Department of Public Safety is Tribe’s Public Safety Department has grown at our facility as calls for we can. Senior officer Harris recruiting for an Entry Level police in number of employees, professionalism, service will increase. We strive and senior officer Ehrhorn officer. The Department of Public Safety serves as first-line public and overall positive influence and reputation to make the resort a safe place Chief of Police Donald have been assigned to the within the local community. We currently where the criminal element is Walkinshaw Sr. Patrol Boat. Senior officer safety officers for the Cowlitz have 16 commissioned officers that provides not welcomed, and laws are Ehrhorn will be attending an Tribe, properties, reservation, two officers and 24-hour service to the enforced for the betterment of business. intensive 19-day training program through businesses, and Tribal programs reservation. With current events and the the Federal Law Enforcement Training and all properties, both trust and political climate around law enforcement, We are in the final stages of completing an Center in the spring that will designate him fee. Under direction of the Director we are fortunate to have a dedicated police agreement with the Clark County Sheriff’s as a Certified Marine Law Enforcement or Supervisor, participates in the department to ensure the safety of our guests Office that will give us “General Peace Officer upon completion of the course. work of law enforcement, patrol, and employees. Major budget cuts and officer Officer Authority.” The agreement and the traffic, tribal-community relations, layoffs are occurring all over the region requirements that we have completed will Aaron Workman is now the Director of investigations, crime prevention, that will limit the ability of neighboring allow the Tribal police to function like any Emergency Management under the Pubic special projects, and coordination agencies to assist us. We have a dedicated other mainstream police department with Safety Department. Aaron has done an and assisting other tribal, federal, police department and court system that arrest powers over non-tribal members outstanding job coordinating the tribes state, county, and city departments. allows us to be as sovereign as possible. and allow enforcement against crimes in COVID-19 response, and we are proud to the vicinity of the reservation. This is a report that the fire engine we secured in For more openings, visit We currently have three vacant positions significant accomplishment for any tribal a grant proposal in 2019 is finally under cowlitz.org/careers/jobs.html that we are attempting to fill immediately. agency. All our officers are state certified and construction. The fully equipped fire engine With the parking garage nearing completion, are qualified peace officers anywhere in the will be based in La Center and will allow state with federal authority from the Bureau the fire station to reopen and support of Indian Affairs. We comply with all the emergency response at the reservation. in applying to speak with them or myself standards and training of the Clark County about working conditions and their Sherriff’s Office. This is major step towards a We are actively looking for Tribal members satisfaction with their career. We further first-class department, tribal or otherwise. who may wish to pursue a career in law ask Tribal members to look at the careers enforcement and become future leaders that are available and come be part of We have taken delivery of our new of our Tribe. We currently have two an exciting time for our Tribe. We will patrol boat that will allow us to serve the Cowlitz Tribal members, Seth Ehrhorn continue to grow the department and our Canoe Family in their voyages, as well as and Austin Moore, working as officers. I positive influence on local communities participating in a regional task force for the would encourage anyone who is interested and government agencies.
COWLITZ TRIBAL DISCOUNTS MICHAEL JORDAN’S / LINE & LURE 15% Off* and Tax Exemption TOM’S URBN 15% Off* and Tax Exemption ROSE & THORN / LONGHOUSE 25% Off* and Tax Exemption MARSHALL ROUSSO / RUBY BLUE 10% Off* and Tax Exemption COWLITZ TRADING POST 15% Off* and Tax Exemption *Conditions may apply Cowlitz Tribal News • Fall 2020 • 25 Dream Catcher Legacy Project Submit your news I have started this project on behalf of my father and myself, to give back to those Cowlitz members to Cowlitz who have disabilities and other special needs. I want to make a difference in their lives, in a world that I Tribal News sometimes feel is unfair. YOOYOOLAH I want to put smiles on their faces and bring them happiness. If you know of a special needs tribal Take a Hike! Send us your articles, art, business member who could be uplifted with something special, info, photographs, and events for please let me know and let’s see if we can make it Lewis and Clark State Park located our upcoming edition. happen. Let’s do this together. between Longview and Chehalis, the inaccurately named Lewis and Submissions must contain the Sincerely and on behalf of my father, Clark State Park in fact straddles following to be published: Dave Barnett, Tribal Council Member. a segment of the Historic Cowlitz Articles 206-707-5765 | [email protected] Trail. The park has over five miles of hiking trails in and around the Word or similar format (Upper) Ryan Hoage received a Superbowl football old growth forests the park was Less than 500 words autographed by Russell Wilson heading to a Seahawks game. Title of the article (Lower) Skye Morris on Trac Chair that takes her places her originally created to protect. Lewis Written by credits wheelchair never could, like on hiking trails. and Clark State Park has also hosted Cowlitz Cedar Gathering and camas Email harvest events in the past few years. Phone Number It is a fairly lightly used park and a Pictures info (see below) Legal Cowlitz Indian good place to get, get some exercise, Photos / Images and enjoy the Cowlitz landscape that Department Pow Wow was. You may want to wear boots, High resolution original though, as the trails can be muddy! No embedded pictures Update The Pow Wow Committee Has Clearly named Announced that we came to the decision Address: 4583 Jackson Highway Numbered by preference due to the Covid-19 virus outbreak Winlock, WA 98596 Photo Credits We hope this update finds everyone to cancel the 21st Pow Wow for the Persons and description healthy and happy. safety and concern of the wellbeing For further questions, contact of our elders and our attendees. Amy Boyd at 360-353-9202 or Articles may be edited at the As you are all aware, since the [email protected] discretion of the editorial team last newsletter, we have lost our We will continue move on to plan and will become the property of General Counsel, as Philip Harju the 2021 Pow Wow and are always the Cowlitz Tribe. accepted the position of Chairman. looking for volunteers to come help It has been a pleasure for all of us and get to know the committee. If PO Box 2547, 1055 9th Ave. in the Legal Department to work you are interested please feel free to Longview, WA 98632 with Phil, and we are confident he get ahold of [email protected] E: [email protected] will do great things for the Cowlitz P: 360-577-8140 people! We are sure you will join us Our Committee members: in wishing him well as he leads both Kris Dillehay -Chairwoman Next edition submissions due members and employees toward a Nathan Hooton Vice Chairman Monday, February 1 2020 very promising and exciting future. Jane Meyers- Treasurer Nicole Meyers -Secretary We are always accepting We have begun advertising to hire Beth Ward submissions. Thank you to the another Staff Attorney and hope to many submissions we received find someone who will be equally Our new committee for this edition. We appreciate as knowledgeable and experienced members: your time and hard work spent as Keegan, Sara, and Lori. In the Ali Guerra on your articles. meantime, Keegan has been named Melanie Mariano the acting Lead Staff Attorney. Brianna Cassity Cowlitz Indian Pow Wow -Yooyoolah Editorial Team The Pow Wow Committee Has Announced that we came to the decision due to the Covid-19 virus outbreak to cancel the 21st Pow Wow for the safety and concern of the wellbeing of our elders and our attendees. We will continue move on to plan the 2021 Pow Wow and are always looking for volunteers to come help and get to know the committee. If you are interested please feel free to get ahold of [email protected] Our Committee members our Kris Dillehay -Chairwoman Nathan Hooton Vice Chairman Jane Meyers- Treasurer Nicole Meyers -Secretary Beth Ward Our new committee members: Ali Guerra Melanie Mariano Brianna Cassity 26 • Cowlitz Tribal News • Fall 2020 Full Fish Passage Under Threat by PacifiCorp on the Lewis River
By Taylor Aalvik, NRD Director has dedicated significant staff time to PacifiCorp’s dams, and what was once a in opposing PacifiCorp’s efforts, including supervising implementation of FERC’s bountiful area is now a money-maker for the Washington State Department of The Tribe signed a Settlement Agreement licenses for the project. Beginning roughly the Utilities, who never compensated the Fish and Wildlife, Lower Columbia Fish with PacifiCorp and Cowlitz PUD in 2004, three years after the license was issued in Tribe for their impacts to Tribal life. Full Recovery Board, Trout Unlimited, Native promising not to oppose the licensing of 2008, PacifiCorp began efforts to wiggle fish passage throughout the Lewis River Fish Society, and American Rivers. Tribal four hydropower projects on the condition out of their obligations to provide fish watershed will not make the Tribe whole, staff have actively engaged additional that the utilities faithfully implemented passage, culminating in an intense flurry of but is the least that the Tribe would settle parties to fight PacifiCorp’s’ efforts to snuff measures designed to offset their projects’ political lobbying in Washington D.C., to for in 2004; any effort by PacifiCorp to out Lewis River salmon and steelhead for impacts on Tribal resources. Specifically, convince political appointees to allow them backtrack on their promise is an affront to their own profit. the Tribe negotiated aggressively to to provide a small “in-lieu” fund instead of the Tribe and to the FERC licensing process. restore salmon and steelhead passage as fulfilling their fish passage obligations as Tribal leadership has stepped up to stop a condition of any operating license, and agreed in the Settlement Agreement. This The Tribe maintains vigilance in fighting this travesty under the current Federal succeeded in securing agreement from all move would save PacifiCorp hundreds for salmon recovery in the region and Administration. The Natural Resources parties that fish passage throughout the of millions of dollars, while leaving the has developed expertise in implementing Department (NRD) and the Tribe’s entire Lewis River watershed would be the salmon and the Tribe holding the bag. salmon recovery projects throughout Legal Department are poised to fight “centerpiece” of the license. The Federal Cowlitz Aboriginal lands. We, as many this matter as far as necessary to ensure Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) The Tribe’s ancestors depended on the others in the basin, believe that the benefit that PacifiCorp provides fish passage as granted a 50-year operating license to the salmon and other resources within the of getting the fish back home to spawn is they promised in 2004. We will provide utilities in 2008 based on the Settlement Lewis River. Many homes and villages the most certain approach to recovery. As a frequent updates on this important quest Agreement. Since that time, the Tribe are now underwater, impounded by result, several parties have joined the Tribe for the Tribe as the fight continues.
restored passage to Rudy Salakory blocked habitats. Habitat Restoration and Conservation Program Manager “It continues to be my honor and The Cowlitz Indian Tribe’s Habitat Restoration privilege to work and Conservation Program resides within for the Cowlitz the Natural Resources Department. This People,” Rudy said. Rudy Salakory program is managed by Rudy Salakory. Rudy “The opportunities came to work for the Tribe in 2008 when they have allowed me to pursue have helped he was hired to implement a grant to plant to elevate the Tribe as a leader in habitat trees on the Lewis River. Afterward, he began restoration and conservation throughout the writing grants, increasing the portfolio and state. This is an important part of the Tribe reputation of the Cowlitz Tribe’s Natural being the leader throughout its historic area Resources Department, and hiring some of interest in all Natural Resource issues.” of the best restoration practitioners in the business who in turn have exponentially Over the coming months, we’ll be bringing increased the Tribe’s portfolio of successful you information on our other Habitat projects and conserved land. Restoration and Conservation Program staff members. Look for biographies of Eli The Habitat Restoration and Conservation Asher and Peter Barber. We’ll also bring is a completely grant-funded program you a featured project article each issue that aims to restore function and health to about individual projects we are working rivers and streams, and conserve land to on, and the work we’ve done. We look provide high-quality and high-functioning forward to sharing those stories with you habitat for the fish, wildlife, and plants and hope you find them interesting. central to Cowlitz Identity and Culture. We’ve designed, funded, and implemented In the meantime, if you want to know more projects throughout Southwest Washington about the Tribe’s Habitat and Conservation that have improved miles and miles of fish Program, or want to know how you can habitat, reconnected floodplains, conserved get involved, please contact Rudy at hundreds of acres of aquatic habitat, and [email protected]. Cowlitz Tribal News • Fall 2020 • 27
regulations and making major decisions Gaming Commission which also keep including Cowlitz). All combined our staff Tribal Gaming on how gambling is regulated on the tabs on what the casino is doing. We also have over three centuries of experience in reservation. The CTGC ensures that work with Cowlitz PD and relevant casino casino gaming, and they are—without a Agency gambling activities on Cowlitz land are department to ensure the safety of patrons doubt—the best in the business. By Paul Dasaro, Executive Director, undertaken in a manner which is both legal and employees through such efforts as Cowlitz Tribal Gaming Agency and ethical. barring disruptive patrons. Agency or Authority? ilani has been an immensely successful The TGA accomplishes its mission by Our operating philosophy is built on the There has long been a lot of confusion endeavor for the Cowlitz Tribe. But how can maintaining a constant physical presence idea of cooperative relationships. Unlike about the acronym, TGA. We are often Tribal members be confident that the many within the casino. Even during the a stereotypical government regulator that confused with CTGA, a totally different millions of dollars generated by this powerful shutdown this spring, we had someone sees its role as trying to “get” the entities organization. The terminology and economic engine are safe, that the people here 24/7. We license every person who it regulates, we believe that we are more acronyms are an annoying point of running it are honest, and that all the rules works in the building, as well as most successful when we work together with the confusion for most people (including us). and regulations governing Indian gaming companies that do business with ilani. casino to solve problems when they arise. But here is the explanation. The Tribal are being complied with? The answer is, in We closely monitor all casino operations, This philosophy only works in practice Gaming Agency (TGA) is the regulator that part, your Tribal gaming regulators. activities, and finances. We report on and when everyone involved is committed to enforces gambling rules and laws with the track any concerning trends or issues that working in a legal and ethical manner. So, goal of protecting tribal integrity, assets, The Tribal Gaming Agency is the Tribal come up. We conduct investigations of we are fortunate that the casino’s excellent and safety. The Cowlitz Tribal Gaming government agency responsible for gaming crimes and serious non-compliance management staff share this philosophy. Authority (CTGA) is a semi-private regulating gambling activities on Cowlitz with the many rules that apply to gambling business organization, which operates the Tribal land. The Agency is overseen by in Indian country. We regularly audit TGA has 36 staff organized into four casino and ensures that it is economically the Cowlitz Tribal Gaming Commission every casino department and operation. departments: Licensing, Audit, Technology, successful. The Agency regulates the (CTGC), an independent board of five We work with outside regulatory bodies, and Enforcement (Regulation). Thirty- gaming activities of the Authority, Tribal members appointed by the Tribal such as the Washington State Gambling three percent of our employees are Cowlitz which runs the casino. If you still forget Council responsible for passing gaming Commission, and the National Indian Tribal members (44 percent are Native, sometimes, don’t worry, so do we.
Parking Garage Construction Nearing Completion
Construction has successfully continued When completed, the six-story garage during the summer months once larger This project would not be possible without at a steady pace for the state-of-the-art will include approximately 2,600 spaces gatherings are permitted. The garage the help of many incredible partners. parking garage at ilani. The 2,600-space and allow for future expansion to bring will raise ilani’s total parking capacity Swinerton Builders, the general contracting garage is on track to open to the public that number up to as many as 4,000. The enough to allow it to host major shows firm, Friedmutter Group, the architecture this November. As the development garage will include “speed ramps” to give and events once able to do so safely. firm, Walker Parking, the engineering of the structure continues, ilani guests drivers fast access to the upper levels, as This increased number of parking company, and countless other local and can expect to see most of the lobbies well as a monitoring system to tell drivers spaces will provide the opportunity regional vendors and contractors that completed with the garage paint job how many spaces are left on each level. for additional shows and events in the have been essential to the productivity and nearly finished by the end of October. future at Cowlitz Ballroom during peak success of this project. As the garage nears During this time, parking signage Planning toward the future, the rooftop casino hours, which has been limited in completion, ilani is looking forward to the installation will also be taking place on all of the garage will be built in preparation the past due to the overwhelming need next chapter, inviting even more guests to levels of the garage. to serve as an outdoor event space for additional parking. experience the property when the time is right.
(left) Parking Garage porte cochere render (right) Parking Garage near completion Cowlitz Indian Tribe Non-Profit Org. P.O. Box 2547 U.S. Postage Longview, WA 98632 Paid Seattle, WA Address Service Requested Permit #1827 CELEBRATING 4 STRAIGHT YEARS AS THE AREA’S BEST CASINO We’re proud to be celebrating 16 more Best of Gaming Awards to our winning streak. In our fourth year, we’ve once again earned top honors for awards like “Best Casino”, “Best Non-Smoking Casino”, “Best Reel Slots”, and “Best Table Games.” Come see why the area’s premier gaming, dining, meeting, and entertainment destination is still the Best in the Northwest. FIRST PLACE WINS Best Casino Best Reel Slots Best Non-Smoking Casino Best Table Games Best Players Club Best Video Poker Best VIP Services Best Carnival Games Best Comps and more... SIXTEEN AWARDS IN ALL
BESTBEST OOFF NNATIVEATIVE NNORTHWESTORTHWEST
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1 COWLITZ WAY, RIDGEFIELD, WA 98642 ilani is committed to responsible gaming. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, please call the Washington State Gambling Helpline at 800.547.6133.