PRESORTED STANDARD MAIL U.S. POSTAGE PAID PORTLAND, OR PERMIT NO. 700

Tribe shares vision for Blue Heron site — pg. 5

april 1, 2021

Tribe fighting efforts to rewrite history of Falls Dunk shots By Dean Rhodes Smoke Signals editor Tribe records 13 assists, vaccinates most Trail Blazers he Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde is once again By Danielle Harrison rebutting claims by Colum- Smoke Signals staff writer T he bia Plateau Tribes, particularly the Confederated Tribes of the Umatil- had 13 of their 15 players la Indian Reservation, regarding Tvaccinated on Monday, historical usage of the Willamette March 22, at the Tribal gym, Falls fishery by Native American using some of the extra vaccine Tribes. supply from the Confederated In November 2020, the Umatilla Tribes of Grand Ronde. Tribe sent Gov. Kate Brown and The Trail Blazers posted news other officials a document titled of the team vaccination efforts “Traditional Use Study of Willa- to its various social media chan- mette Falls and the Lower Co- nels and website that same lumbia River by the Confederated morning, and players also post- Tribes of the Umatilla Reservation” ed pictures to their social media in that Tribe’s efforts to get Grand accounts on . Ronde to dismantle its ceremonial “Today, 13 Trail Blazers play- fishing platform and prevent it ers received their first dose of from exercising its cultural prac- the Moderna COVID-19 vac- tices at the falls. cine,” the team said. “Access to In response, the Grand Ronde this excess supply of vaccines Tribe once again turned to Dr. was through the Confederated Stephen Dow Beckham, who wrote Tribes of Grand Ronde who be- a 205-page analysis of the Umatilla gan offering the vaccine to the document. general public in February as Beckham’s assessment said that a way to help and the the Umatilla study is filled with nation move past the pandemic. errors of fact, faulty conclusions “The Trail Blazers organiza- based on misunderstanding of tion and players are grateful primary and secondary sources, to the Confederated Tribes of and accepting as “truth” virtually Grand Ronde for making these Photo courtesy of Twitter vaccines available to the gen- anything that is in print. Portland Trail Blazers forward posted a photo of eral public. … Players were “In sum, CTUIR’s study is intel- himself getting the first dose of the two-dose Moderna COVID-19 vaccine lectually dishonest,” Beckham said. excited and enthusiastic about at the Tribal gym on Monday, March 22, to his personal Twitter account. Beckham, a professor emeritus of getting their first dose. It all history at Lewis & Clark College, went very smoothly.” The Tribe vaccinated 13 members of Portland’s professional had previously prepared a 160-page The statement encouraged team, using some of its excess supply of vaccines. report commissioned by the Grand others to get vaccinated as well. Ronde Tribe in 2018 that rebutted “As vaccination efforts con- awareness on the safety, efficacy Enes Kanter posted a assertions by the Columbia Plateau tinue to ramp up, we will con- and importance of vaccination so selfie of himself getting vacci- Tribes that their ancestors also tinue to use our platform via our state and communities can public service announcements come out of this awful pandemic See BLAZERS See FALLS and other messaging to raise as soon as possible.” continued on page 6 continued on page 7 Revitalizing Chinuk Wawa during a pandemic Zoey Holsclaw, 25, (Editor’s note: This story was originally produced as part of a collabo- is a post-elementary ration between the Native American Journalists Association and NPR's Chinuk Wawa Next Generation Radio.) teacher and Grand Ronde Language Department By Kamiah Koch stories and history in Chinuk Wawa, their outreach Smoke Signals social media/digital journalist Native language. s a young Grand Ronde Tribal “I love speaking the language, and part coordinator. She sits member, Zoey Holsclaw learned of why I want to teach people to speak in outside her office storytelling happens from the first Chinuk Wawa is because we don’t have building on the A frost until the frogs sing. that many speakers right now,” Holsclaw Grand Ronde Tribal Wintertime was when activity would campus on March 12. slow and the Elders of the Confederated See WAWA Photo by Kamiah Koch Tribes of Grand Ronde could share their continued on page 9 2 APRIL 1, 2021 Smoke Signals

General Council meeting sNok signflz 11 a.m. Sunday, April 11 Being held remotely using the Zoom teleconferencing program. PUBLICATIONS OFFICE 9615 Grand Ronde Road, Grand Ronde, OR 97347 NOTICE — Monthly Tribal Council Wednesday Meetings 1-800-422-0232, FAX: 503-879-2173 DATE TIME Wednesday, April 7...... 10 a.m. Website: www.smokesignals.org Wednesday, April 21...... 10 a.m. E-mail: [email protected] Please note that these times and dates are subject to change if needed. [email protected]

Twitter: CTGRSmokeSignal LIHEAP program open in service area www.facebook.com/SmokeSignalsCTGR/ The Tribal Social Service’s LIHEAP – Low Income Home Ener- www..com/c/SmokeSignalsChannel gy Assistance Program – is open to eligible Tribal members in the six-county service area and Clackamas County. DEAN RHODES DANIELLE TIMOTHY J. This is a first-come, first-served program and income criteria ap- PUBLICATIONS HARRISON GONZALEZ plies. LIHEAP is federally funded through the Department of Health COORDINATOR STAFF WRITER PHOTOJOURNALIST 503-879-1463 503-879-4663 503-879-1961 and Human Services and is designed to help low-income households [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] with home heating costs. For more information, contact Social Services at 503-879-2034. n SAMUEL F. JUSTIN KAMIAH BRIGGS III PHILLIPS KOCH GRAPHIC DESIGN PAGE SOCIAL MEDIA/ Congressional Art Competition seeks entries SPECIALIST DESIGNER DIGITAL JOURNALIST 503-879-1416 503-879-2190 503-879-1461 , D.C. – Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici is accepting [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] submissions for the 2021 Congressional Art Competition, which is open to any high school student who lives in or attends schools in her district, DEADLINE DATE ISSUE DATE which includes Washington, Yamhill, and Columbia counties and part of Multnomah County. friday, april 9...... april 15, 2021 Local artists will select the winning student artist whose work will be monday, april 26...... may 1, 2021 displayed in the U.S. Capitol for a year. All students who participate in monday, may 10...... may 15, 2021 the competition will be invited to a virtual reception with Bonamici where monday, may 24...... june 1, 2021 the winner will be announced and all submissions shown. Students interested in submitting artwork should visit bonamici.house. gov/services/art-competition on the Internet. Deadline for submissions is Friday, April 30. Art can be mailed to Bonamici’s Beaverton office at 12725 Editorial Policy S.W. Millikan Way, Suite 220, Beaverton, OR 97005. Staff members will smok signflz, a publication of the Confederated Tribes of the Grand Ronde Communi- be available to receive art outside the front entrance to the building from ty of Oregon, is published twice a month. No portion of this publication may be reprinted 8 to 11 a.m. Wednesday, April 28, and 2 to 5 p.m. Friday, April 30. n without permission. Our editorial policy is intended to encourage input from Tribal members and readers about stories printed in the Tribal newspaper. However, all letters received must be signed by the author, an address must be given and a phone or e-mail address BURIAL FUND ORDINANCE must be included for verification purposes. Full addresses and phone numbers will not OPEN FOR COMMENT be published unless requested. Letters must be 400 words or less. smok signflz reserves the right to edit letters and to refuse letters that are determined The Tribal Council is considering amendments to the Burial Fund to contain libelous statements or personal attacks on individuals, staff, Tribal administration Ordinance. The proposed amendments were given a First Reading or Tribal Council. Not all letters are guaranteed publication upon submission. Letters to the at the Feb. 10, 2021, Tribal Council meeting. editor are the opinions and views of the writer. Published letters do not necessarily reflect the opinions of smok signflz. The proposed amendments increase the Burial Benefit from $6,000 to $7,000, and may also include minor technical (i.e., formatting, typographical, housekeeping) modifications. Members of:  Native American Journalists Association Tribal Council invites comment on the proposed amendments to  Oregon Newspaper Publishers Association the Burial Fund Ordinance. For a copy of the proposed amendments, please contact the Tribal Attorney’s Office at 503-879-4664. Please send your comments to the Tribal Attorney’s Office, 9615 Grand Ronde Road, Grand Ronde, OR 97347 or by e-mail to legal@gran- dronde.org. Comments must be received by Thursday, April 15, 2021. n 2021 Clarification — An article in the March 15 edition of Smoke Signals con- tained information provided by a source that requires clarification: When Tribal Council an Elder becomes eligible for Tribal foster care, the cost is determined by 75 percent of their income, such as Social Security, per capita payments [email protected] or a pension from a job. The Elders pension received as a Tribal member is not included in determining how much is paid for adult foster care.  Cheryle A. Kennedy  Jack Giffen Jr. Tribal Council Chairwoman — ext. 2300 — ext. 2352 [email protected] [email protected] Letters welcome  Denise Harvey Letters should be exclusive to smok signflz.  Chris Mercier — ext. 2353 ’ , [email protected] Letters should be 400 words or less and must include the writer s name Tribal Council Vice Chair address, phone number and Tribal roll number. You will be contacted to — ext. 1444 confirm authorship.  Michael Langley [email protected] All letters are subject to editing for space, grammar and, on occasion, — ext. 1777 factual accuracy. Only two letters per writer are allowed during a three- [email protected] month period.  Jon A. George

Letters written in response to other letter writers should address the Tribal Council Secretary  Lisa Leno issue at hand and, rather than mentioning the other writer by name, — ext. 2355 — ext. 1770 should refer to the date of the letter published. Discourse should be [email protected] [email protected] civil and people should be referred to in a respectful manner. Letters deemed in poor taste will not be printed. Send letters via e-mail to news@  Kathleen George  Steve Bobb Sr. grandronde.org, or submit in person at the Tribal Governance Center in — ext. 2305 — ext. 4555 Grand Ronde, Ore., or mail to smok signflz, 9615 Grand Ronde Road, [email protected] [email protected] Grand Ronde, OR, 97347. APRIL 1, 2021 sNok signflz 3

Blue Heron fire suspect’s trial date set for June 1 By Dean Rhodes reported by and Danielle Harrison The Clacka- Smoke Signals staff writers mas Review, OREGON CITY – The man sus- Mejia said pected of starting a fire that dam- that because aged the Grand Ronde Tribe’s Blue of his brain April Heron property has a trial date set implant “a • Wednesday, April 7 – Tribal Council meeting, 10 a.m., Governance for June 1 after he was found fit group of Center, 9615 Grand Ronde Road. 503-879-2304. to proceed by Clackamas County people can • Thursday, April 8 – Community Input meeting, 6 p.m., Zoom tele- Judge Heather Karabeika. Enrique Omar Mejia see what I’m conference. 503-879-2304. Karabeika previously ordered thinking; • Sunday, April 11 – General Council meeting, 11 a.m., Zoom tele- a mental health examination by they can see what I see, and they conference. 503-879-2304. Oregon State Hospital personnel can hear what I hear. … I’m not • Wednesday, April 21 – Tribal Council meeting, 10 a.m., Gover- on Jan. 4 after finding there was sure exactly what it is, but I think nance Center, 9615 Grand Ronde Road. 503-879-2304. reason to doubt Enrique Omar it’s part of a cell phone or Google Mejia’s mental ability to proceed eye or something.” May with a criminal defense regarding Mejia’s previous convictions in- the arson charge filed against him. clude a 2018 disorderly-conduct • Sunday, May 2 – General Council meeting, 11 a.m., Zoom tele- Oregon City police arrested Me- charge in Lincoln City. According conference. 503-879-2304. jia, 29, for the Dec. 5 fire at the to the Lincoln City News Guard, • Wednesday, May 5 – Tribal Council meeting, 10 a.m., Governance former Blue Heron Paper Mill site he also was cited and released by Center, 9615 Grand Ronde Road. 503-879-2304. that the Tribe purchased in August the Lincoln City Police Department • Wednesday, May 19 – Tribal Council meeting, 10 a.m., Gover- 2019. He was originally scheduled in July 2020 after police received a nance Center, 9615 Grand Ronde Road. 503-879-2304. to go on trial on Wednesday, Feb. 3. report of a man with a beer pushing • Monday, May 31 – Memorial Day observance, 1 p.m., West Valley Mejia’s court-appointed attorney a crosswalk button over and over Veterans Memorial, 9615 Grand Ronde Road. 503-879-4555. Ruben Medina Jr. requested a psy- again. chiatric/psychological examination, Oregon law states that a person (Editor’s note: All events are tentative depending on the status saying that a criminal trial could may be found incapacitated if, as a of the Tribe’s COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic response.) violate his client’s “fundamental result of a qualifying mental disor- right to competency.” der, he or she is “unable to under- Mejia reportedly made “concern- stand the nature of the proceedings ing statements” that called into against the defendant or to Health & Wellness Center hours question his ability to stand trial, and cooperate with the counsel.” The Health & Wellness Center is pleased to add additional Medina said. He added that his Mejia remains in the Clacka- access for patients during holiday weeks on Thursday mornings. client’s family members said that mas County Jail in Oregon City he has been having mental health on $100,000 bail on one count of The clinic will be scheduling patients at 8 a.m. every Thursday issues for some time. second-degree arson. He has been preceding or following a holiday closure. Medina told the court that Mejia previously denied release because Urgent care also will be available during this time. n claimed to have had a chip implant- of failure to appear charges, the ed in his head and wanted to know felony arson charge, having adult what would happen when the chip convictions and being unemployed. was discovered. He also asserted His next scheduled court date is a that he has since been followed status check set for May 13. n around by a cult that is trying to frame him for a crime. Includes information from According to a Dec. 29 court filing Pamplin Media Group. OFFICIAL TRIBAL FACEBOOK PAGES

Smoke Signals: Are you frustrated with your diabetes control? facebook.com/SmokeSignalsCTGR The Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde: Do you have questions about diabetes? facebook.com/CTGRgov Do you need help managing your diabetes? Grand Ronde Health & Wellness: If so… facebook.com/GRHWC Call the Medical Clinic today at 5038792002 Grand Ronde Children & Family Services: To schedule an individual diabetes education appointment facebook.com/CTGRCFS Grand Ronde Royalty: facebook.com/CTGRRoyalty Grand Ronde Education Programs: facebook.com/CTGREducation Grand Ronde Youth Council: facebook.com/CTGRYouthCouncil Grand Ronde Station: facebook.com/GrandRondeStation Grand Ronde Social Services Department: COMMITTEE AND SPECIAL EVENT BOARD VACANCIES facebook.com/CTGRSocialservices The following Committees and Special Event Boards have vacant positions. Grand Ronde Food Bank: Housing Grievance Board – 1 vacancy, 5 expiring facebook.com/GrandRondeFoodBank Ceremonial Hunting Board – 2 vacancies, 4 expiring Spirit Mountain Community Fund: Culture Committee – 2 vacancies, 4 expiring facebook.com/SpiritMountainCommunityFund Enrollment Committee – 2 vacancies, 2 expiring Grand Ronde Cultural Education: Fish & Wildlife Committee – 2 vacancies, 2 expiring facebook.com/Grand-Ronde-Cultural-Education Powwow Special Event Board – 1 vacancy, 4 expiring Grand Ronde Community Garden: Education Committee – 5 expiring facebook.com/GrandRondeCommunityGarden Election Committee – 4 expiring Health Committee – 2 expiring Grand Ronde Tribal Police Department: Timber Committee – 3 expiring facebook.com/Grand-Ronde-Tribal-Police-Department TERO Commision – 2 expiring Grand Ronde Employment Services Veterans Special Event Board – 5 expiring Facebook.com/EmploymentServices Please send completed applications to Stacia Hernandez, 9615 Grand Ronde Road, Grand Ronde, OR 97347 Ad by Samuel Briggs III 4 APRIL 1, 2021 Smoke Signals

a look Food Bank news back... The Grand Ronde Food Bank – iskam mfkhmfk haws – is operated yesteryears by Marion-Polk Food Share, which has been leading the fight to end hunger since 1987 because no one should be hungry. Recipients of SNAP, TANF, SSI or LIHEAP assistance automat- 2016 – A Celebration of Life event was held for Tribal Elder Richard ically qualify for assistance at the Grand Ronde Food Bank, 9675 Ray, which he was able to attend in person. Fellow Elders decided Grand Ronde Road. No one will be turned away in need of a food box. to host the event before he passed away from terminal cancer. “I’m “We believe that everyone deserves to have enough to eat,” Food on a different path,” Ray said. During the service, friends and fam- Bank Coordinator Francene Ambrose says. “You are welcome to get ily recalled his youthful adventures, childhood in Willamina and a food box at each of our regular weekly distributions. No one will adulthood working for his own logging company. Ray served on the be turned away in need of a food box.” Tribe’s Timber and Elders committees. In reaction to the continuing COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic, the 2011 – The Tribe’s Cultural Food Bank will hold April food box distributions on Fridays from 10 Resources Department host- a.m. to 2 p.m. ed a photograph identification “We are asking clients to not come for a food box if they are hav- session. The department com- ing any symptoms or concerned about their health,” Ambrose said. piled several photos, which “We are limiting our geographic service area to Sheridan to Otis on were laid out for people to Highway 18 and Sheridan to Hebo on Highway 22. We are asking look at and hopefully identify clients and volunteers to wash their hands immediately upon entry some of the people and items to the building. Our lobby is closed until further notice. in them. The cache of 150 “Food box distribution is happening outside while maintaining a pieces, including 20 letters safe distance between clients. We are sanitizing and keeping the food and a huge basket, dated quarantined for three days before distribution. Pre-made boxes are back as far as the late 1800s 2011 File photo available on distribution days, limited to two days of food for two and as recent as the 1950s. adults. Clients within our geographic service area are still welcome Tribal Elder Kathryn Harrison inspected image after image with a to visit us weekly.” magnifying glass. It was the first time she had seen one photo of her People must check in 15 minutes before closing to receive a food oldest brother as a baby. “I just wish the last generation was still box. If you need immediate assistance, call 211 or visit 211info.org. around,” she said. “Especially the Hudson girls.” Those who are unable to pick up a food box can fill out an authorized 2006 – More than 150 Native youth participated in the fourth representative form and that designated person can pick up a food annual Native Youth Wellness Day at the Tribal gym. The day box on your behalf. The authorization is good for one year. included motivational speakers, Native American pop music artist The Food Bank is continuing the Farm Share Rx program with 35 Jana, breakout groups, a basketball tournament and a pizza dinner. farm shares being distributed from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Wednesdays. It “I go around to talk about motivating and empowering the youth,” is a first-come, first-served distribution until the shares are depleted. Jana said. “I like to spread my message and visiting Grand Ronde The Food Bank continues to seek volunteers to help with repacking has been a great experience.” food, putting food on the shelves, handing out food boxes, end-of- 2001 – Approximately 25 Japanese exchange students who were month inventory and picking up food donations at area stores. attending Marylhurst College visited Grand Ronde and toured the Call to ensure someone is available to assist. People also can sign Tribal offices. The college students were on a spring break trip study- up for a monthly e-mail for the Food Bank calendar and events, as ing different cultures and tourism. They performed a traditional well as follow the Food Bank on Facebook. Japanese dance in the Tribal Governance Center for Tribal staff The Food Bank is an equal opportunity provider. and second-grade students from Grand Ronde Elementary School. Call Ambrose at 503-879-3663 or contact her at fambrose@mari- 1996 – Spirit Mountain Casino’s Phase 2 expansion was progress- n onpolkfoodshare.org for more information or to volunteer. ing rapidly, with employees and customers anticipating the addition of 36,500 square feet of new gaming, dining and family entertainment space. Scheduled for completion by July, the new expansion would include the Legends restaurant, a children’s attraction, video arcade Committee & Special Event and expansion of gaming space. The expansion would add between 125 to 150 new employees to the facility, according to David Hargo, Board meeting days and times vice president of development. 1991 – Tribal Council Chairman Mark Mercier and Tribal Council • Ceremonial Hunting Board meets as needed. Chair: Marline Groshong. member Larry Brandon attended a Tribal Leaders Forum in Seattle, • Culture Committee meets at 5:30 p.m. the second Tuesday of the month at the Wash. The event included Sen. Daniel Inouye of Hawaii, chairman of Grand Ronde Food Bank/iskam mfkhmfk haws, 9675 Grand Ronde Road. Chair: the Senate Select Committee on Indian Affairs. Inouye told the group Francene Ambrose. of Tribal leaders that he was genuinely supportive of Native people • Editorial Board meets monthly. The next meeting will be held at 10 a.m. Friday, April and was at the meeting to take his “marching orders” from them. 23, using the Zoom conferencing program. Chair: Siobhan Taylor. Contact: Editorial. Approximately 60 Tribal representatives from Oregon, Washington, [email protected]. Idaho and Alaska attended the event. • Education Committee meets at 5:30 p.m. on the first Tuesday of the month in the Yesteryears is a look back at Tribal history in five-year in- Adult Education building. Chair: Tammy Cook. crements through the pages of Smoke Signals. • Elders Committee meets at 10 a.m. the third Wednesday of the month in the Elders Activity Center. Chair: Penny DeLoe. • Enrollment Committee meets quarterly in Room 204 of the Governance Center. Chair: Debi Anderson. Hunters Education • Fish & Wildlife Committee meets at 5:30 p.m. the second Tuesday of the month at the Natural Resources building off Hebo Road. Chair: Harold Lyon. • Health Committee meets at 10 a.m. the second Tuesday of the month in the Molalla Field Day set for May 1 Room of the Health & Wellness Center. Chair: Bernadine Shriver. The Natural Resources Department’s Parks and Recreation Program is • Housing Grievance Board meets at 4 p.m. the third Thursday of the month in the coordinating a Hunters Education Field Day on Saturday, May 1. Housing Department conference room. Chair: Simone Auger. Registration for the class must be done at the Oregon Department of • Powwow Special Event Board meets monthly at noon at the Community Center. Fish & Wildlife website. There is a $10 per student fee and the class is Dates vary. Contact Dana Ainam at 503-879-2037. Chair: Dana Ainam. open to Tribal and nonTribal youth ages 9 to 17 by the beginning of the • TERO Commission meets at 10 a.m. the first Tuesday of the month in the Employment 2021 hunting season. Services building. Chair: Russell Wilkinson. The class is only the field day and students must have attended either • Timber Committee meets at 5 p.m. the second Thursday of the month at the Natural a conventional course, online course or completed an at-home workbook. Resources building off Hebo Road. Interim Chair: Jon R. George. Spots will be limited. • Veterans Special Event Board meets at 5:30 p.m. the first Tuesday of the month in In Oregon, all youth hunters 17 and younger must pass a certified hunter education class before hunting unless they are participating in the old Elders Craft House. Chair: Rich VanAtta. the Mentor Youth Hunter Program. The minimum age to hunt big game To update information on this list, contact Publications Coordinator Dean Rhodes is 12 and hunters age 13 and younger must be accompanied by an adult at 503-879-1463 or [email protected]. 21 or older when hunting. To register for the Field Day, visit myodfw.com. For a full list of youth (Editor’s note: All committee and special event board in-person meetings have been hunter regulations, visit www.eregulations.com/oregon. suspended during the Tribe’s reaction to the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic.) For more information, contact Parks and Recreation Coordinator Jerry Bailey at 503-879-2337 or [email protected]. n APRIL 1, 2021 sNok signflz 5

Tribal Council OKs contracts to restore conservation properties

By Dean Rhodes and al Congress of American Indians Danielle Harrison for a one-year, $84,053 grant that Smoke Signals staff writers would fund a domestic violence Tribal Council approved the client advocate who would work Natural Resources Department for the Social Services Depart- entering into two contracts that ment; will restore oak and upland prairie • Approved applying to the U.S. habitat, respectively, on two of the Department of Justice for two Tribe’s six conservation properties $500,000 grants. The first grant during it Wednesday, March 24, would purchase a replacement Smoke Signals file photo meeting. police vehicle and fund an addi- The Grand Ronde Tribe released its vision for redevelopment of the Blue The agreements with the Natural tional police officer for five years Heron Paper Mill site in Oregon City on Wednesday, March 24. The Tribe Resources Conservation Service’s at the Tribal Police Department. purchased the culturally important land in August 2019. Environmental Quality Incentives The second grant would fund a Program involve sharing costs in Tribal Youth Enhancement & which the conservation service con- Prevention coordinator in the tributes funds toward implementa- Social Services Department who Tribe shares vision tion of conservation practices and would operate a five-year pro- the Tribe provides any remaining gram; resources necessary to complete • Extended the maturity date on for Blue Heron site the projects. the permanent loan to Spirit The first contract would help Mountain Gaming Inc. to reflect By Danielle Harrison landscape and water channels restore oak habitat on 41 acres of the seven months that loan pay- Smoke Signals staff writer underneath defunct industrial the Rattlesnake Butte conservation ments were suspended in 2020 After acquiring the 23-acre buildings. Native plantings property northwest of Junction City due to the pandemic. The new Blue Heron site near Willa- would be re-established, and in Lane County. The Tribe obtained maturity date would be Aug. 15, mette Falls in August 2019, the restored riparian habitat would three separate parcels at Rattle- 2025; Tribe is now sharing its ideas provide vast benefits for native snake Butte in 2012 and 2015 • Approved extending the sunset for future use of the culturally fish, birds and other wildlife.” totaling a combined 269.5 acres. date of the COVID-19-related significant land located in its Additionally, the Tribe envi- The work at Rattlesnake Butte coverage in the Workers’ Com- ancestral homelands. sions mixed-use development at would improve the forest stand, pensation Ordinance from March Potential plans include en- the northern end of the site that treat woody residue, and manage 31 to end on the date that the vironmental and cultural would be a visual and physical brush and plant for wildlife habitat. Tribally declared state of emer- restoration along with new de- connection to the restored land- The cost-share amount would not gency expires; velopment. Other priorities are scape. exceed $72,000. • And approved one voluntary to help restore public access, Potential development could The second contract would help relinquishment of membership provide economic prosperity include office, hospitality, insti- restore upland prairie habitat at and OK’d the enrollment of eight and return the Tribe to the role tutional or educational spaces, Noble Oaks, a 667.5-acre conser- individuals into the Tribe because of caregiver over an important as well as Tribal spaces, public vation property in Polk County they meet the requirements out- piece of its homeland. gathering spots, restaurants, obtained by the Tribe in 2019. lined in the Tribal Constitution “Acquiring the property at Wil- retail and a riverwalk area. Any The work over 40 acres would and Enrollment Ordinance. lamette Falls let us reclaim part new development would reflect include mowing, weed control and The entire meeting can be viewed of our history and allowed us to the story of the Tribe and its his- conservation cover. The cost-share by visiting the Tribal government’s once again become stewards of torical and cultural connection would not exceed $25,000. website at www.grandronde.org the land and the falls,” Tribal to Willamette Falls. In other action, Tribal Council: and clicking on the Government tab Council Chairwoman Cheryle A. “This is a meaningful and ex- • Approved applying to the Nation- and then Videos. n Kennedy said in a press release. citing time for our Tribe and for “Now, we head into the future everyone who will benefit from with a vision for this land that the healing and promise of our helps heal it and revitalize it Willamette Falls site,” Kennedy Remembering Saige while telling our story and shar- said. “We look forward to work- ing our history.” ing with all of the partners who The Tribe purchased the prop- share in our vision for the land, erty from Washington developer from its historical, ecological George Heidgerken in 2019 for and cultural significance to its $15.25 million. Since then, it has potential to create prosperity for been working with a design team the entire region.” from GBD Architects and Walk- In December 2020, Tribal er | Macy to create a vision for Council approved the allocation the site. The Tribe also has been of $1.235 million to purchase working with the state Depart- an approximately half-acre plot ment of Environmental Quality adjacent to the Blue Heron on onsite cleanup efforts. property. It is located at the en- “Focused on the central idea trance to the former Blue Heron of healing, the vision will also Paper Mill site and has an office be guided by the values of spirit, building. place, people and prosperity,” The property was on the mar- the press release stated. “What ket and the Tribe’s purchase that means for the site itself is ensured that it controls the extensive ecological restoration site’s future use so that it is at the southern end, which would complementary to Blue Heron’s include restoring natural basalt development. n

Photo by Timothy J. Gonzalez Tribal member Veronica Gaston works on renewing the Saige Selwyn Bicycle Memorial on Grand Ronde Road on Monday, March 15. Gaston has been taking care of the memorial since 2016. She was able to replace the bike and add a ceramic angel with money she won during GRAND RONDE HOUSING DEPARTMENT General Council door prize drawings, along with a small personal 28450 Tyee Road – Grand Ronde, Oregon 97347 – 503-879-2401 – Fax 503-879-5973 contribution. Any future money from the door prizes will be used to decorate the memorial in May, which is Saige’s birth month. Saige, 12, walked on in September 2015 after the bicycle she was riding was ATTENTION ALL HOUSING TENANTS AND GUEST struck by a vehicle while she was crossing Grand Ronde Road. PLEASE SLOW DOWN IN ELDER HOUSING Also, please make sure and maintain low levels of music in the Elder community.

6 APRIL 1, 2021 Smoke Signals

Clinic ribbon-cutting Pharmacy adds lockers for prescription pickup The Grand Ronde Pharmacy has added lockers for people to pick up their prescriptions, according to Pharmacy Director Lincoln Wright. The lockers are located at the southwest entrance door marked Pharmacy Locker Pickup and are available 24/7, 365 days a year. “When the order is placed in the locker, the patient receives a random code via text or e-mail,” Wright said. “That randomized code is specific to that locker for that one order. Once the order is picked up that code is no longer useable. There’s also an app they can download on their smartphone so they can track their pickup history and more easily share the code with someone else they want to pick up for them.” Pharmacy patients must fill out a Patient Contact Preference form and provide their e-mail address or phone number to receive locker notifications. “We’ve been testing it for a few weeks, so patients can start using it as soon as we receive the contact preference form and upload their e-mail address,” Wright said. “The upload of e-mail addresses only happens a couple of times a day so the first order can be delayed depending on when everything is ready. After that the e-mail and cell number stay in the system and orders can be delivered to the lockers several times a day. “If patients don’t have an e-mail, like a small child, we have a manual workaround to help the parent get the text message. Generally, the e-mail is used for the first pickup and then the patient can enter in their cell number for text alerts on future orders.” For more information, contact the Pharmacy at 503-879-2342. n Listening sessions set PORTLAND – The Oregon Museum of Science and Industry, Affiliated Tribes of Northwest Indians, InterTribal Fish Commis- sion, Prosper Portland and Portland Bureau of Environmental Services are starting an 18-month planning process to engage Tribes, Tribal or- ganizations and the Portland metro area Native American community to Photo by Great Circle Recovery staff seek ideas, identify needs and explore development opportunities for the Tribal Council Chairwoman Cheryle A. Kennedy, Executive Director of proposed Center for Tribal Nations and Waterfront Education Park at the Health Services Kelly Rowe and Tribal Council member Steve Bobb, OMSI District on the eastern shore of the Willamette River. Sr. participate in the grand opening of the Grand Ronde Tribe’s first The property includes 23 acres of which 18 are available for the new medication-assisted treatment clinic to combat opioid addiction on development with 3 million square feet of new useable space. Monday, March 22. Also attending was Tribal Council Vice Chair Chris As part of Phase One, a series of listening sessions have been scheduled, Mercier. The Great Circle Recovery Opioid Treatment Program clinic is at all running from 1 to 3 p.m. The sessions will be held on March 31, April 13, April 26, May 13 and June 2 and will be conducted using virtual meeting 1011 Commercial St. N.E. in Salem and is the first Tribally operated MAT applications like Zoom. People also can complete a survey regarding the clinic in Oregon. The Tribe also plans to open a clinic in east Portland proposal at atnitribe.org/center-tribal-nations/. on Southeast 82nd Avenue this summer. Portland resident Jennifer For more information or to provide additional input, contact Don Samp- Worth was hired to be the clinics’ Operations Director in December. son at [email protected] or 541-215-2753 or James Parker at “Opioid addiction is something that does not discriminate,” Kennedy [email protected] or 541-249-5770. n said. “It takes lives, destroys families and haunts Tribal and non-Tribal communities alike. That’s why it was important for the Tribe to bring these services to those seeking treatment.”

Tribal Veterans Service Office Veteran Outreach Event 12,748 people have received *Memorial Day* Honoring families of Confederated Tribes of Grand vaccines, including 6,905 Ronde Veterans who have walked on…

Let us express our gratitude and pride for those who served; those shots for Elders 55 and older who put their lives on the line; and the families who supported them. We raise our hands to acknowledge and honor the service of BLAZERS continued and older in late January, and to the the Veteran in your family and their memory. hayu masi. from front page general public in February. To date, more than 50 percent of To Receive a Memorial Day gift: nated on Twitter, saying: “Just got Tribal employees have been vacci- 1. Be a Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde (CTGR) Tribal Member or, a Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde family member with vaccinated today with my brothers. nated and 90 percent of Health & 2. A CTGR Veteran in your family who has made their journey (from any The faster we get vaccinated, the Wellness Center employees have service era) and, 3. Submit a photo, biography, story, or information about your tribal veteran sooner we can return to our lives received both shots. and/or their military service by May 21, 2021 (to TVSO office by mail/email). with our loved ones.” Total vaccines administered are (All information submitted is kept confidential and will not be shared). Forward Robert Covington did 12,748, including 6,905 shots put In return: the same, saying, “First step in the into the arms of Elders, who are at The first 100 submissions get to choose one of the following gifts: right direction of life getting back highest risk for complications from  A gardening tool kit for the veterans gravesite (15 available) or, to normal.” COVID-19.  A picture frame for the veterans photo (15 available) or,  A 4x6” American flag with a silk flower (40 available) The Blazers, citing health and Tribal Communications Director  5.5x8” Military Branch flags (a few of each branch, 30 available) privacy concerns, declined to elab- Sara Thompson said the Tribe has  orate on how the team and Tribe been able to draw an additional 800 Gift pick up will be during Memorial Day Week. Individuals who sign up will be contacted to set up a date/time for drive-through pick-up. connected in arranging the vacci- doses from its current supply. nations. Arrangements can be made if you would like your gift mailed. “Each dose is important,” she The Tribe received its first doses of said. “We’re excited to be part of the Moderna vaccine in late Decem- the effort to vaccinate the com- ber, with priority going to clinic per- munity, our partners and combat sonnel, Tribal first responders, adult COVID-19.” foster care workers and residents. Second doses of the COVID-19 The vaccine rollout was expanded vaccine are usually given 21 to 28 to include all Tribal members 55 days after the first.n APRIL 1, 2021 sNok signflz 7 Much of the Umatilla report is ‘fact-free history’ FALLS continued Falls.” Beckham fact-checks that from front page statement as false as well, citing an 1839 Hudson’s Bay Co. census fished at the falls and supported of Fort Vancouver Indians that the Grand Ronde Tribe’s claims to identified no Umatilla Indians. Willamette Falls. He does concede there was one He called Columbia Plateau Walla Walla youth who briefly Tribes’ claims to the Willamette attended school on French Prai- Falls fishery a “modern-day discov- rie in the early 1840s. “School ery of opportunity” in 2018. attendance by one youth does not In a March 11 letter, Tribal Coun- document Tribal presence and cil Chairwoman Cheryle A. Ken- treaty rights,” he says. nedy said that since the Grand 6. “The Cayuse Five trial, during Ronde Tribe’s Restoration in 1983, which Tribal headmen were tried it has not only had to confront a and convicted in Oregon City, legacy of colonialism and racism, adjacent to Willamette Falls, for but “regrettably, we have also had the deaths that took place at the to resist the efforts of some Tribes Whitman Mission (near Walla Smoke Signals file photo to move beyond their lands and Walla, Wash.) created deep and The Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde commissioned noted Oregon deprive Grand Ronde of its rights unresolved trauma that adds to and history.” historian Stephen Dow Beckham to write an analysis of an Umatilla Tribal CTUIR’s connection to the area of Kennedy met with Oregon Gov. document regarding the Willamette Falls fishery. Beckham’s analysis once Willamette Falls.” Beckham said Kate Brown in a Tribal Govern- again rebuts claims by Columbia Plateau Tribes of their regular historical the Cayuse men were tried in Ore- ment Willamette Falls executive usage of Willamette Falls as a fishery. gon City because it was the capital session meeting on Thursday, of the Oregon Territory and the March 18. statement is false and does not that did not identify any resource location of the territorial court. “Much of the Umatilla Report is address the “extensive” linguistic uses or locations west of Celilo “The trial in no way buttressed the ‘fact-free history’ ” Beckham says. and ethno-historical information Falls. reserved treaty rights of fishing, “A close analysis of the sources recorded since 1806 that identi- 3. “The (Umatilla) possess abundant hunting, digging roots, gathering cited confirms the author glossed fies the falls and its vicinity as oral histories on our traditional berries or grazing livestock for the her narrative from unreliable sec- the aboriginal homeland of the use at Willamette Falls and the CTUIR in Oregon.” ondary sources, failed to check the Clackamas, Clowewalla, Mult- Lower Columbia River area.” “Such compelling findings require primary sources alleged to be the nomah, Tualatin and Molalla Beckham again does not mince making Dr. Beckham’s complete foundation for the information, Tribes. “The Umatilla Report words, calling the statement false report available to officials and the and accepted as fact information fails to provide any evidence that and “based on heavily redacted public,” Kennedy said. “Dr. Beck- that was wrong or of dubious au- its antecedent Tribes and bands modern oral histories.” He also ham’s analysis, and his citations thenticity.” possessed a single village or ex- cites the fact that the Umatilla to a plethora of well-regarded and The author, Dr. Jennifer Karson ercised any subsistence activities sought no settlement from the widely known materials, ultimately Engum, works for the Umatilla west of prior to 1995.” U.S. government for any land oth- speaks for itself.” Tribe’s Cultural Resources Protec- 2. “(Umatilla) members maintained er than on the eastern Columbia Kennedy’s letter and Beckham’s tion Program. She earned a Ph.D. uninterrupted use and exercised Plateau. report have been posted on the Wil- in anthropology in 2007 from the treaty rights in the area which 4. “The Cayuse people had signif- lamette Falls & Landing Heritage University of Texas at Austin, use continues today.” Beckham icant contact and clear cultural Area’s website at www.wflha.org. according to her LinkedIn profile. calls the statement false and cites and historical ties including “The biggest hurdle ahead is rec- In his summary, Beckham re- the fact that in 1941 none of 35 intermarriage with the Molalla ognizing Tribal sovereignty and the bukes six major claims made by the Umatilla Tribal Elders report- Tribe of the Willamette Valley.” federally recognized treaties that Umatilla report. ed any use or exercise of treaty Beckham says the alleged lin- apply to the area,” said retiring 1. “Use of Willamette Falls area rights west of Celilo Falls on the guistic affiliation of the Cayuse Heritage Area Executive Director was not exclusive to any single Columbia River. He also cites a and Molalla languages has been Siobhan Taylor, who previously Tribe or band.” Beckham says the 2015 Umatilla-published atlas “resoundingly and consistently worked for the Grand Ronde Tribe rejected by linguistic scholars as Public Affairs director and cur- since the 1960s.” rently is chair of the Tribe’s Edito- 5. “The presence of the (Umatilla) rial Board, which oversees Smoke people increased during the fur Signals. “Make no mistake, this is trade and mission era, which in the ceded homelands of the Con- brought additional (Umatilla) federated Tribes of Grand Ronde. members to the Willamette Valley And the treaty that applies is the and increased use at Willamette Willamette Valley Treaty.” n Service honored

May

Photo by Timothy J. Gonzalez Tribal Council member Steve Bobb Sr. and former Tribal Council Chairman Reyn Leno share a smile after Leno was presented with a certificate from Spirit Mountain Casino to recognize his 25 years of service on the Spirit Mountain Gaming Inc. Board of Directors on Monday, March 29. Leno also served seven straight terms – 21 years – on Tribal Council. 8 APRIL 1, 2021 Smoke Signals Panel addresses health inequities in Indian Country By Danielle Harrison we don’t know, that humility will Smoke Signals staff writer help us listen, ask good questions PORTLAND — Tribal member and demonstrate trust,” she said. and American Leadership Oregon “Our identities are informed not Executive Director Lisa Watson led just by socioeconomic status and a panel discussion on health ineq- educational level, but so many uities in Indian Country in recog- other different things. It’s import- nition of Women’s History Month. ant to recognize how broad those The discussion, held on Thurs- experiences can be.” day, March 18, via Zoom included Edmo said she feels culturally Watson, MRG Foundation Director specific care has value in the con- Se-ah-dom Edmo (Shoshone-Ban- text of who someone is as a person. nock, and ) and “I absolutely believe that many of University of Providence Nursing our communities experience their Division Chair Melissa Robinson best health with eating First Foods (Salish and Kootenai). and diets that have sustained peo- The event was sponsored by Smoke Signals screenshot ple for generations, and within our Portland State University, the Tribal member Lisa Watson, top left, led a panel discussion on health extended family structures. I think Center for Women’s Leadership inequities in Indian County on Thursday, March 18. She was joined by culture should always be looked and Tillamook. MRG Foundation Director Se-ah-dom Edmo, bottom left, and University of at as an accelerator to achieving “This is an important subject al- Providence Nursing Division Chair Melissa Robinson. health and wellness for individu- ways, but even more so in this cur- als.” rent time we are in,” Watson said. ferent when something has been will forgo care in case a younger Added Watson, “It’s a systems “I’m very excited to be here today unfair or unjust. Health disparities family member gets seriously ill. change question. How do we em- to discuss health care as it relates is ingrained as a term in the health These are upsetting dynamics.” brace the systems that are going to to health inequities for Indigenous care system. In education, what Robinson shared a story of her be affirming of all of our identities, communities. … One of my leading I’ve learned is that as children grandmother receiving a letter and educate people not only to values is once we know better, we and adults enter the system, the from Indian Health Service and embrace but to work within these must do better. I would invite the opportunities haven’t been equal. worrying about what to do. systems? It’s a tall order but it’s audience today to take this new When we can create an equitable “The letter told her not to access doable. These are things we can do.” information and turn it into action playing field, we will be better. It care unless it was life threatening,” The last question involved trau- in your own communities.” is not an easy thing to change, but she said. “It was a hard budget ma-informed care and the impor- Watson’s first question for the I think we can.” year, but so scary for her because tance of being aware of it. panelists was their thoughts on Added Watson, “It is important it limited her ability to access “More people have experienced the term “health inequities” versus for us to have a shared understand- care. Another barrier is that since trauma than have not,” Robinson “health disparities.” ing of a term that is so loaded.” Indian people get free health care, said. “COVID is a level of trauma “I’m not a health practitioner, but The next question involved the it is hard to combat that with the we haven’t seen in our lifetime. We I love working on things,” Edmo various ways Indigenous people qualitative experience of what it need to provide an open level of said. “I love operationalizing our access health care. is really like. Being able to (raise understanding for people.” traditional values into how we do “For me, it is IHS (Indian Health awareness) and communicate that Added Watson, “We could spend our work. For me, I much prefer the Service) first,” Edmo said. “It is with people is an important start- days or weeks talking about trau- term ‘health inequities.’ Health in- one thing that has been a common ing point.” ma. I think trauma-informed in- equity is something you must make element of treaty and trust respon- Watson said experiences like that teraction is something everyone equitable. Health disparity makes sibility. We have to first fully fund can be trauma triggers. should be aware of.” it seem like a foregone conclusion, IHS. Every time the budget comes “It’s another communication that After the panelists finished an- that something is just the way it is.” up, the myth of scarcity does. How makes you fundamentally aware swering Watson’s questions, they Robinson agreed. health dollars are managed has that you don’t matter,” she said. fielded three audience inquiries. “Disparity means different. We troubling reverberations through- The third question for panelists Center for Women’s Leadership need to get away from that term. out Indian County. Elders are very involved the value of having cul- Interim Executive Director Jessica Health outcomes aren’t just dif- aware that this is the case. They turally specific health care. Mole thanked panelists for their Robinson said she considers des- participation in the event. ignating something as culturally “It has been really meaningful specific care can risk safety and to be in a space with all of you quality by increasing stereotypes today, hearing your experiences about what different racial and and learning from your collective ethnic groups want, and hamper wisdom,” she said. providers’ ability to offer individu- Added Watson, “Thank you for alized care and develop trust. the experience and for sharing your “If we can be humble about what hearts today.” n

Salmon egg distribution Requirements:

 Must be an enrolled Grand Ronde Tribal Member. Requirements:  Eggs cannot Must be be sold. an enrolled Grand Ronde Tribal Member.  To apply call or email  Eggs cannot be sold. [email protected] or Call (503)879 To apply-2192. call or email th [email protected] Please join us for the 5  Eggs mustor be Call picked (503)879 up- 2192.in person with Tribal ID at Natural Resources  Eggs must be picked up in person (47010 SW Hebo Road Grand annual Grand Ronde with Tribal ID at Natural Resources Ronde, OR)(47010 SW Hebo Road Grand Ronde, OR) Education Summit via  The frequency and quantity of the  egg supply The cannot frequency be predicted.and quantity of the egg supply cannot be predicted. Zoom! When eggsWhen are eggsavailable are available the the applicantsapplicants will be notified will be notified in the in the order of theirorder application of their application until theuntil the supply is gone.supply Ifis wgone.e cannot If we cannot supply supply eggs to meet the entire list of eggs to meet the entire list of requests; those not receiving eggs requests; willthose be movednot receiving to the top eggs of the list will be movedfor the to next the distribution top of the list Details on registration will be sent out as the for the next distribution  Eggs can be loose or in skeins

event date approaches.  Eggs can beEggs loose are stored or in vacuumedskeins sealed and frozen.  Eggs are stored vacuumed sealed and frozen.

To sign up, or for more information, Contact Brandon Weems at (503)879-2192 or [email protected]

To sign up, or for more information, Contact Brandon Weems at (503)879-2192 or [email protected] APRIL 1, 2021 sNok signflz 9 Haaland confirmed to lead Department of the Interior By Dean Rhodes respected her.” health and safety of our families. Smoke Signals editor Haaland, 60, earned degrees “I am also thrilled that for the Congresswoman Deb from the University of New Mexico first time a Native American wom- Haaland, a citizen of the Laguna and its Law School. She ran her an will be at the helm of the agency Pueblo Nation, became the first Na- own small business producing and that oversees programs directly tive American Cabinet member on canning Pueblo Salsa and became affecting Indian Country. This is an Monday, March 15, when the U.S. the first chairwoman elected to invaluable milestone in our work Senate confirmed her nomination the Laguna Development Corp. to turn the page on America’s long 51-40 to lead the Department of Board of Directors, overseeing the history of broken promises with the Interior. business operations of the second Tribal nations, and I look forward Haaland also became the first largest Tribal gaming enterprise to working with Secretary Haaland Native American to lead the fed- in New Mexico. to support Tribal sovereignty and eral department that handles the She ran for New Mexico lieu- self-determination.” government’s trust responsibility tenant governor in 2014 and then The Klamath Tribes in southern to the more than 574 Tribal nations became the first Native American Oregon called Haaland’s confirma- in the . woman to lead the Democratic tion a “beacon of hope” in the long Reaction in Oregon was swift and State Party in New Mexico. She history of challenging relationships positive. was elected to Congress in 2018, with the Department of the Inte- “Deb Haaland’s confirmation becoming one of the first Native rior. Contributed photo hopefully opens a path for Native American women to serve in the “It is heartening to think that an Tribes across this nation with many Tribal Council member Denise House of Representatives and was Indigenous woman will be leading challenges with the department,” Harvey, left, met with former nominated to serve as Secretary of the Department of Interior,” said said Grand Ronde Tribal Council New Mexico Rep. Deb Haaland in the Interior by President Biden. Klamath Tribal Secretary Roberta member Steve Bobb Sr. “Native Washington, D.C., in February 2019 “Secretary Haaland’s lifetime of Frost. “During her confirmation people view this as a big step for while attending the National Indian service demonstrates her strong hearing, Secretary Haaland talked Indigenous people and a great day.” Gaming Association’s Legislative commitment to defending our about protecting Mother Earth. Grand Ronde Tribal Council Summit. Haaland is an enrolled public lands and waters – natural This is so important to us as a treasures that make countless member Denise Harvey met Haa- member of the Laguna Pueblo Tribe.” land in February 2019 while attend- contributions to the spirit and “As a matriarch herself, Sec- Nation and was confirmed as ing the National Indian Gaming vitality of communities and local retary Haaland understands the Association’s Legislative Summit Secretary of the Interior on Monday, economies throughout Oregon and complex issues and decisions Tribes in Washington, D.C. March 15, becoming the first Native across America,” said Oregon Sen. make,” Klamath Tribal Council “I think she will do very well in American Cabinet member in the Jeff Merkley in a press release member Willa Powless said. “This the position,” Harvey said. “One history of the United States. sent out moments after the vote confirmation is historic in so many of the things about Deb that I’ve was final. “At a time when climate ways, but for the first time it feels known and all of the times that just has a very fair, equitable kind chaos is fueling more catastrophic like Tribes will be understood and I’ve had the opportunity to work of disposition about her. wildfires, deadly winter storms, listened to when advocating for our with her is that she always listens “It’s a day in history for a Native extreme droughts and powerful people.” and she always shows up. She’s woman to be in the position for the hurricanes, that kind of respon- Haaland was sworn in on Thurs- very knowledgeable about Indian first time and I think she is a great sible environmental stewardship day, March 18, by Vice President Country and the Tribes, and she lady for the job. I’ve always really couldn’t be more important to the Kamala Harris. n ‘It takes three weeks to get through one lesson so that every kid is on the same page’

WAWA continued is suppressed and kind of hard to from front page Multimedia for this story is get involved when you’ve gone your whole life being told that you can’t said. “If we lose all of our speakers available at www.spreaker.com/ be Native.” and we lose our language, and episode/44004008 and Termination meant the Tribe no that’s a huge part of our culture www.youtube.com/c/SmokeSignalsChannel longer had recognition from the that we won’t be able to get back.” United States government, losing Today after centuries of coloniza- what was promised in signed trea- tion, the number of fluent speakers ties and federal aid. has dwindled to an estimated dou- were quarantining at home. through one lesson so that every However, in 1983, a group of ble-digit number. “At first, I was really nervous kid is on the same page,” she said. Grand Ronde Tribal members Holsclaw is one of the seven Chi- about teaching virtually and prob- “I could just move on, but I don’t. raised enough money to go to nuk Wawa teachers in the Grand ably the first couple of months I The goal is to create speakers, and Washington, D.C., to appeal to Ronde Language Department. She hated it because none of the kids so I don’t want to leave kids behind Congress. They won, regaining rec- is also the department’s outreach want to turn their cameras on and when they don’t show up because ognition. But 30 years of damage coordinator, which means she is they don’t want to participate,” that just seems like the opposite of was already done. responsible for finding ways to in- Zoey said. “But now that I’m getting what I want to do.” “There’s a lot of cultural shame terest more people in learning the into a swing of things, I kind of like In her office, she has a cabinet and trauma that has kind of hap- language. it. But we’re also going to in-person full of books and binders of Native pened to our people, and that kind She began learning Chinuk teaching next week, so things are languages no one speaks anymore. of sits with a lot of our Elders. And Wawa as a child. While she was being thrown up in the air again.” She attributes the loss of those lan- so there’s shame in wanting to learning to say “hello” and “good- Throughout the pandemic, Zoey guages to the forceful relocations of learn the language, because people bye” in preschool classes, her older intermittently worked from home. Tribes to reservations and assimi- feel like they should already know sister, Ali Holsclaw, began to take COVID-19 is not something she is lation practices that continued into it, but they don’t.” Zoey said. “But adult classes. happy about, but working remotely the 20th century. since the pandemic, there have The sisters continued to learn the gave her time to be at home with One such practice was the federal been quite a few others that have language, becoming two of the few her 1-year-old daughter and see her removal of Grand Ronde’s Tribal expressed interest in learning, so fluent speakers. That eventually achieve baby milestones. sovereignty in 1954 in what was that’s something that I’m wanting led them to teaching. Her daughter even participated also known as the Termination era. to explore more as the outreach But unlike her sister, Zoey start- in teaching classes from home one “Our area was affected by as- coordinator.” ed her position in the middle of day, mimicking her mom by holding similation, and termination had a On March 6, the U.S. Senate ap- the COVID-19 pandemic, when all up Chinuk Wawa vocabulary flash- huge effect on the people here, es- proved the largest investment in classes shifted to an online format. cards to the virtual class. pecially when it comes to learning Native programs with $31 billion On her first day, she said, she But teaching remotely takes even their culture and having pride in going to Native communities, in- was one of the only ones working longer, and Zoey says she still feels who they are,” Zoey said. “There cluding $20 million to mitigate the in the building after someone in pressure to keep their language is still pride there. It’s just when effect of the coronavirus on Native her department tested positive for alive. you grow up in an area where you languages, as part of the COVID-19 COVID-19 and her new co-workers “It takes three weeks to get can’t really show that, it kind of American Rescue Plan. n 10 APRIL 1, 2021 Smoke Signals

Request for Proposals Fund seeks Hatfield applicants Construction and Financial Services Spirit Mountain Community Fund is accepting applications for the 2021- The Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde 22 Hatfield Fellowship through Friday, April 30. HOME OWNERSHIP DEVELOPMENT – PHASE 1 Each year, the Community Fund sponsors a Native American to serve as the Hatfield Fellow, giving them an opportunity to gain knowledge and Through this Request for Proposals ("RFP”), the Confederated Tribes understanding of how to navigate the political process in Washington, D.C., of Grand Ronde (“CTGR”) seek competitive proposals from qualified while representing Northwest Tribes and working on issues that directly and experienced individuals or firms (hereafter, "Proposers") for the affect Native Americans. provision of construction and financial services for CTGR’s Home The Hatfield Fellow will begin his or her Capitol Hill experience in No- Ownership Development – Phase 1 (“Project”). The purpose of this vember with a month-long orientation at the American Political Science solicitation is to secure proposals from Contractor-Finance Teams who Association, followed by an eight-month term working in an Oregon con- have experience in designing, permitting, construction and financing of gressional office. The fellowship includes a monthly stipend and relocation developments similar in scope and scale. CTGR will accept proposals and travel expenses. until 4 p.m. Thursday, April 29, 2021, at CTGR’s Engineering & Public Applicants should be a member of one of the nine federally recognized Works Department, located at 9615 Grand Ronde Road, Grand Ronde, Tribes in Oregon or a member of a Tribe in Washington, Idaho and Mon- OR 97347, Tribal Governance Building. Proposals should be clearly tana. Preference will be given to Oregon Tribal members. marked with the Proposer’s name and address, as well as the RFP title. Applicants must have at least a bachelor’s degree or graduating in June Electronic copies of the RFP documents are available by e-mailing and be 21 or older. Ryan Webb at [email protected] or calling 503-879-2404. For more information, visit thecommunityfund.com or go to youtu. Respondents shall provide a written proposal by 4 p.m. Thursday, April be/7TOnNoFgUYs to view a Hatfield Fellowship informational video. 29, 2021, to Ryan Webb, Project Manager, at 9615 Grand Ronde Road, The fellowship was created in 1998 to honor Sen. Mark O. Hatfield’s Grand Ronde, Oregon 97347. Specific information regarding document public service to Oregon and the Pacific Northwest.n submittal procedures and due dates will be found in the RFP. n

Drug Take-Back Day scheduled for April 24 The Grand Ronde Tribal Police Department in partnership with the 5th Annual Drug Enforcement Administration will give members of the public their 20th opportunity to prevent pill abuse and theft by ridding their homes of potentially dangerous expired, unused and unwanted prescription drugs ONLINE STUDENT from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, April 24. People should bring their pills for disposal to the department at 9655 SUCCESS Grand Ronde Road. The service is free and anonymous, but it cannot accept liquids, needles or sharps; only pills or patches. CELBRATION The DEA and state, local and Tribal law enforcement removed almost 493 tons of medications during the last national Drug Take-Back event held in October 2020. Last fall, residents of Alaska, Idaho, Oregon and Recognizing Native Students Washington turned in more than 20 tons of expired and unwanted medi- cations for safe and proper disposal at 150 sites in the Northwest. For Outstanding Academic For more information about the disposal of prescription drugs or about Success the April 24 event, visit www.DEATakeBack.com on the Internet. n

We specialize in

Mowing & Edging • Mulching Fertilizing • Pruning •Lawn Care April 15th at 7pm Leaf Clean-up • Sod Installation www.facebook.com/CTGREducation Moss Treatment • Gutter Cleaning www.youtube.com/CTGReducation So you don’t have to.

503.383.4064 CCB #208867 LCB #9720 Licensed, bonded and insured. Paid ad

Chinuk-Wawa Early Childhood Language Nest Program Enrollment for 2021-22 What: Meet and Greet This is a Meet and Greet session for interested families to learn about the Chinuk-Wawa Early Childhood Language Nest. This is the time to meet the staff, learn about our philosophy, goals and curriculum. This session is mandatory for enrollment consideration. Who: Potential incoming 3-5 year olds for 2021-22 school year

When/Where: On Zoom April 22nd at 5pm; Meeting ID: 841 8665 8261 Passcode: 613192 Or April 28th at 12 pm; Meeting ID: 833 0123 9722 Passcode: 839945

*Choose one of these mandatory sessions if you would like your child to be considered for enrollment in the program for the 2021-22 school year.

To sign-up or for more information please contact Jeff Mercier (503) 879-1633 or [email protected]. APRIL 1, 2021 sNok signflz 11

Thursday, March 4 Tuesday, March 16 • DUII arrest occurred in the area of milepost 26 on Highway 18. • Theft reported in the 27100 of Salmon River Highway. • Citizen contact occurred in the 48700 block of Eagle Loop. • Driving complaint received in the area of Yamhill River and Fort Hill • Suspicious vehicle reported in the 9600 block of Hebo Road. roads. • Warrant arrest occurred in the area of milepost 21 on Highway 18. • Warrant arrest occurred in the area of Highway 18 and Jahn Road. • Theft reported in the 26800 block of Salmon River Highway. • Domestic disturbance reported in the 27100 block of Salmon River • Assist outside agency in the area of milepost 24 on Highway 18. Highway. A suspect was arrested for harassment. Friday, March 5 • Warrant arrest occurred in the 9600 block of Hebo Road. • Drug complaint reported in the 27100 block of Salmon River Highway. Wednesday, March 17 • Drug complaint reported in the 27100 block of Salmon River Highway. • Trespass reported in the 7400 block of Ash Avenue. • Drug complaint reported in the 27100 block of Salmon River Highway. • Burglary call received in the 9600 block of Tilixam Circle. • Found property in the 27100 block of Salmon River Highway. • Methamphetamine arrest occurred in the area of milepost 23 on High- • Drug complaint reported in the 27100 block of Salmon River Highway. way 18. • Driving complaint reported in the area of milepost 21 on Highway 18. • Drug complaint received in the 27100 block of Salmon River Highway. • Citizen contact occurred in the 8500 block of Grand Ronde Road. • Citizen contact occurred in 28400 block of McPherson Road. • Suspicious activity reported in the 27100 block of Salmon River High- • Driving complaint received in the 27100 block of Salmon River High- way. way. • Assist outside agency in the area of milepost 24 on Highway 18. • Citizen contact occurred in the 8700 block of Grand Ronde Road. • Driving complaint received in the 27100 block of Salmon River High- • Suspicious activity reported in the 27100 block of Salmon River High- way. way. • Assault reported in the 27100 block of Salmon River Highway. • Suspicious activity reported in the 26800 block of Salmon River High- Saturday, March 6 way. • DUII arrest occurred in the area of milepost 21 on Highway 18. • Drug complaint received in the 27100 block of Salmon River Highway. • Disturbance reported in the 27100 block of Salmon River Highway. Thursday, March 18 • Fraud reported in the 27100 block of Salmon River Highway. • Trespass reported in the 27100 block of Salmon River Highway. A • Assist outside agency in McMinnville area. suspect was escorted off the property and given a courtesy transport • Assist outside agency in the area of Southwest Hebo Road and Salm- to another location. on River Highway. • Assist outside agency in the area of milepost 24 on Highway 18. Sunday, March 7 • Theft reported in the 27100 block of Salmon River Highway. • Warrant arrest occurred in the 27100 block of Salmon River Highway. • Fraud reported in the 27100 block of Salmon River Highway. • Fraud reported in the 27100 block of Salmon River Highway. • Theft reported in the 27100 block of Salmon River Highway. • Assist outside agency in the 7400 block of Alvord Alley Road. • Suspicious vehicle reported in the area of Hebo and Old Fort roads. • Suspicious vehicle reported in the 9600 block of Hebo Road. Friday, March 19 • Drug complaint reported in the 27100 block of Salmon River Highway. • Assist outside agency in the 500 block of Northeast Main Street in Monday, March 8 Willamina. • Assist outside agency in the 28800 block of Salmon River Highway. • Assist outside agency in the 47000 block of Hebo Road. • Assist outside agency in the area of milepost 25 on Highway 18. • Assist outside agency in the 700 block of Churchman Street in Sheri- • Parole violation arrest occurred in the area of milepost 25 on Highway dan. 18. • Drug complaint received in the 26800 block of Salmon River Highway. • Suspicious activity reported in the 25200 block of Southwest Beaver • Open door reported in the 9600 block of Raven Loop. Court. • DUII arrest made in the area of Highway 18 and Rowell Creek Road. Tuesday, March 9 • Driving complaint received the area of milepost 22 on Highway 18. • Assist outside agency in the 48700 block of Dragonfly Drive. • Assist outside agency in the area of milepost 28 on Highway 18. • Suspicious vehicle reported in the area of milepost 19 on Highway 18. • Domestic disturbance reported in the 27100 block of Salmon River Wednesday, March 10 Highway. A suspect was arrested for physical harassment. • Driving complaint received in the area of milepost 27 on Highway 18. • Suspicious vehicle reported in the area of Hebo and Old Fort roads. • Civil standby occurred in the 9600 block of Tilixam Circle. Saturday, March 20 Thursday, March 11 • Drug complaint received in the 27100 block of Salmon River Highway. • Assist outside agency in the area of milepost 19 on Highway 18. • Fight reported in the 27100 block of Salmon River Highway. • Animal complaint received in the 48800 block of Coyote Court. • Vehicle fire reported in the 8200 block of Fire Hall Road. • Assist outside agency in the 22700 block of McPherson Road. • Traffic accident reported the 27100 block of Salmon River Highway. • Disturbance reported in the 27100 block of Salmon River Highway. • Drug complaint received in the 27100 block of Salmon River High- • Suspicious vehicle reported in the 26800 block of Salmon River High- way. way. • Stolen vehicle reported in the 27100 block of Salmon River Highway. Friday, March 12 Sunday, March 21 • Theft reported in the 27100 block of Salmon River Highway. • Hit-and-run reported in the 27100 block of Salmon River Highway. • Drug complaint received in the 27100 block of Salmon River Highway. • Welfare check performed in the 9600 block of Raven Loop. • Reported sex abuse. The investigation is ongoing. • Drug complaint received in the 27100 block of Salmon River Highway. • Disturbance reported in the 9500 block of Raven Loop. • Attempt to locate on a possibly armed suspect out of Lincoln City in • Warrant arrest in the area of milepost 5 on Agency Creek Road. the Grand Ronde area. • Assist outside agency in the 9600 block of Raven Loop. Monday, March 22 • Drug complaint received in the 27100 block of Salmon River Highway. • Harassment reported in the 100 block of Wind River Drive. • Fight reported in the 27100 block of Salmon River Highway. • Assist outside agency in the 500 block of Walnut Street in Willamina. Saturday, March 13 • Citizen contact occurred the 9600 block of Grand Ronde Road. • Suspicious activity in the area of milepost 3 on Agency Creek Road. Tuesday, March 23 • Assist outside agency in the 27100 block of Salmon River Highway. • Trespass reported in the 27100 block of Salmon River Highway. One • Assist outside agency in the 900 block of East Main Street in Sheri- female suspect was arrested after refusing to leave the property. dan. • Welfare check performed in the area of milepost 6 on Agency Creek • Drug complaint received in the 27100 block of Salmon River Highway. Road. • Assist outside agency in the 24100 block of Salmon River Highway. • Assist outside agency in the 24700 block of Yamhill River Road. Sunday, March 14 • Suspicious vehicle reported in the area of milepost 28 on Highway 18. • Drug complaint received in the 27100 block of Salmon River Highway. • Harassment reported in the 27100 block of Salmon River Highway. • Citizen contact occurred in the 9600 block of Grand Ronde Road. Wednesday, March 24 • Citizen contact occurred the 27100 block of Salmon River Highway. • Warrant arrest made in the area of milepost 23 on Highway 18. Monday, March 15 • Drug complaint received in the 27100 block of Salmon River Highway. • Driving complaint reported in the area of milepost 1 on Highway 18. • Warrant arrest made in the 27100 block of Salmon River Highway. • Drug complaint received in the 27100 block of Salmon River Highway. • Theft reported in the 27100 block of Salmon River Highway. • Drug complaint received in the 27100 block of Salmon River Highway. • Assist outside agency in the 28200 block of Andy Riggs Road. • Animal complaint received in the 100 block of Wind River Drive. • Citizen contact occurred in the 8800 block of Hebo Road. Compiled by Grand Ronde Tribal • Assist outside agency in the 25000 block of Yamhill River Road. Police Department Officer Tyler Brown. 12 APRIL 1, 2021 Smoke Signals ‘Earth Day Activities’ The 2020-21 Royalty participants for the CTGR and Veterans SEB groups celebrate Earth Day (April 22) by planting seeds, helping clean up their neighborhood and connecting with nature. Practice ways to ‘Go Green’ by: planting a tree or flowers, picking up trash, connect with nature (walk barefoot in the grass/star gaze/hike into a forest), use reusable shopping bags, use steel or glass straws and switch to bamboo towels instead of napkins or paper towels. The collections also can be found at www.facebook.com/CTGRRoyalty and www.facebook.com/CTGRVeteransSEB. APRIL 1, 2021 sNok signflz 13 14 APRIL 1, 2021 Smoke Signals

Walking On...

Donna Mae Burkett Dec. 12, 1946 – Feb. 17, 2021 Tribal Elder Donna Mae Burkett passed away of LIBRARY HOURS: natural causes on Feb. 17, 2021, at her home. She was 74 years old. Monday – Friday: 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. Adopted as an infant, Donna was raised in Port- (Monday closed from noon – 1 p.m.) land, Ore., was a Campfire Girl and graduated from Roosevelt High School. Growing up, Donna traveled Saturday: 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. to many places with her parents as they belonged “Little Library” locations: The Tribal Library oversees the 14 to a travel trailer club. Little Library locations in and around Grand Ronde. Feel free to stop Donna tried numerous arts and craft hobbies in by any of these locations and grab a book for free. Please remember her life: knitting, beading and leather work, and that you cannot return your library items to the Little Library loca- collected skins, hides, bones, teeth, claws and even tions. Library materials that have been checked out must be returned harvested quills from a porcupine. in person or dropped of via the book return, located on the left side Donna loved nature and animals, owning numer- of the Tribal Library entrance. ous cats throughout her life and a few different horses. Her father once New Native books: “Abandon Me” by Melissa Febos, “Bad Indi- purchased a Ford Falcon for her to learn how to drive. She eventually ans: A Tribal Memoir” by Deborah Miranda, “Code Talker” by Joseph traded it for an Appaloosa horse she named . Donna purchased a Bruchac and “Our Land” by Mercedes Jones. box turtle from a pet store in Seaside back in 1980, found another turtle New children’s books: “Al Capone Throws Me a Curve Ball” by near the River in the 1990s and had them as pets until her death. Gennifer Choldenko, “Bunny Breathes” by Kira Willey and “Dingle- Donna liked camping, fishing and especially loved the ocean, walking hoppers and thingamabobs” by Livingstone Crouse. the beach most days and beachcombing. She lived in the small towns of DVD selection: Come check out the Tribal Library’s ever-grow- St. Helens, Seaside, Newport, a farm in Toledo, an RV on the Siletz River ing movie collection with more than 1,900 DVDs/Blu-ray formats to and Newport once again before returning to Portland in 2001 when her choose from. father took ill. Requests: The Tribal Library provides recommendation forms in Donna met her birth mother in June 1997 and began exchanging letters order to provide patrons with an outlet to request book/media content on a regular basis. we may not currently have. She was preceded in death by her adoptive parents, Perry and Georgia Book Review: “Where the Crawdads Sing” Andre, and sister, Lavonne C. Dorning. Donna passed away the same day by Delia Owens. as her birth mother, Betty Maxine Reed. Kya Clark, who is also called “Marsh Girl” She is survived by siblings Lola Gray, Beverly Morgan, Elaine Sihilling, in Barkley Cove, N.C., is a smart, strong, and Raelene Cox and Jay Reed; cousin, William Blank, who she grew up with resilient young girl. Kya has had to survive for and remained close; children, Robert Burkett, Charles Burkett and Ron- years alone in the marsh. When the attractive ald Housley; grandchildren, Malissa, Cazmine, Falconn, Cody, Kyle and town star athlete, Chase Andrews, is found dead, Alyssa; and eight great-grandchildren. the locals immediately suspect Kya. A small service and spreading of ashes is still to be determined. Kya’s home and first love is the marsh and the author, Delia Owens, does a great job making you feel like you are there. This is one of the things I Other passings loved most about the book. Throughout this book, Meagan Renea Brumley Owens paints the scenes with beautiful and descriptive imagery. Her Jan. 21, 1991 – March 10, 2021 writing is beautiful; it flows and is very poetic at times. Tribal member Meagan Renea Brumley, 30, passed away on Wednesday, I heard much praise about this book and I will have to agree. I am March 10, 2021. glad that I have read it and I would highly recommend this book. — Crown Memorial Center in Salem is assisting the family, which will be Reviewed by Crystal Bigelow holding a private memorial service. Donations: A special thank you to Don Day, Larry Cole and others for their contributions to the Tribal Library. We appreciate it. Reminder: The Tribal Library is not accepting donations at this time. Home Delivery Service For any questions or comments, contact the Tribal Library The Tribal Library is open at 503-879-1488 by e-mail [email protected]. by appointment only Monday-Friday 9 am- 5 pm

Home delivery is a free service being offered to library card holders in the Grand Ronde area only

You may request specific titles from our library or you may also have a staff member select materials based on your interests.

You can view our library cata log at Follett.grandronde.org To reserve materials and set up delivery drop off and pick up times: Email: [email protected] OR Call- 503-879-1488 Fee assistance Loan p olicies Enrolled Tribal members can request assistance with test fees 3 items per library card (i.e. GRE, SAT, LSAT, ACT) and admissions application fees. Books: 2-weeks Contact Higher Education for more information at 1-800-422- DVD's: 1-week 0232, ext. 2275. n Audiobook on CD: 1-week APRIL 1, 2021 sNok signflz 15

01S1 for01S1 the U.S. DHHS, SAMHSA, CSAT - Prepared by JBS International, Inc., under Grant No. 3 H79 T1026800

Grand Ronde Health & Wellness Center Behavioral Health Program 9605 Grand Ronde Rd. Grand Ronde, OR 97347 503-879-2026

April is National Stress Awareness Month How to Deal with Stress and Anxiety

Practicing yoga, listening to Volunteering to be active in your music, getting a massage or community can create a support learning other relaxation system and gives your mind a techniques will help clear your break from everyday stress. head and step back from the problem.

Talking to someone that you feel Caffeine can increase anxiety safe with about what your feeling and cause panic attacks. Try can help lift some of the stress drinking water instead. off of your shoulders.

Sleep is a powerful stress Exercising can increase your reducer. A regular sleep routine overall health and it can bump calms and restores the body and up your brain's feel-good improves concentration. You're neurotransmitters, called better able to cope with stress endorphins. when you're well-rested. Deep breathing is one of the Slowly counting to ten and best ways to lower stress in the becoming aware of the body. When you breathe deeply, sensations in your body can help it sends a message to your brain you identify feelings that could to calm down and relax, the be contributing to your stress. brain then sends that message to your body. This information is provided to you by the Indigenous Project LAUNCH (Linking Actions for Unmet Needs in Children's Health). The purpose of this grant is to foster culturally responsive models to support and promote the wellness of children and families. 16 APRIL 1, 2021 Smoke Signals

Smoke Signals UMP Q U A • MO L A LL A • R O G UE R I V ER • K A L APU YA • C H A S TA

An Independent Publication of the Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde • Smokesignals.org

, M ,

HOODIES $30 • T-SHIRTS $12 • STICKERS $1

A ITMS AR OW RSTOCD

Sies S M 2 3 4 Total

oodies T

T-Shirts T

Total

ame: Stickers Total Address:

hone: -mail:

h or ony ordr ony a Make payable to Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde. Memo: ditorial Board a ai to Smoke Signals ublications Dept., 615 Grand Ronde Road, Grand Ronde, OR 34

Ad by Samuel Briggs III