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Siletz News Presorted Confederated Tribes of First-Class Siletz Indians Mail SILETZ NEWS P.O. Box 549 U.S. Postage Siletz, OR 97380-0549 Paid - Permit No. 178 Delores Pigsley, Salem, OR Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians Tribal Chairman Vol. 49, No. 5 May 2021 Mike Kennedy, Interim General Manager and Editor-in-Chief

Siletz Tribal Arts and Heritage Society stays in the game despite pandemic 2020 was a year of change and inno- time. Two of us, Gloria Ingle and Teresa COVID-19 came on the scene and Board members continued to be effective vation for the five volunteer members of Simmons, are retired. caused us to postpone some of the activi- in their various areas of expertise and ties we had scheduled. Our progress was work together in a positive manner toward the STAHS Board as we continue to work Members of this 501c3 volunteer toward the goal of building “A Place for the slowed, but by no means did it come to our ultimate goal. board receive no compensation for hours a halt. In 2020 we hired a capital campaign People,” a cultural center with a museum spent working on behalf of STAHS and We discovered new ways to approach director, Stephen Reichard, to lead us component on Government Hill in Siletz. rarely receive compensation for mileage. and solve problems. During our annual through the labyrinth of the grant world. Three members of the board, Angela Hours and mileage, however, are docu- workshop, 10 regular meetings and With his help, STAHS has applied for Ramirez, Shantel Hostler and Celesta mented to be noted when applying for numerous subcommittee meetings, we several grants. Lee, have full-time jobs. Angela also sits matching grants and listed as the “in-kind” found we could interact effectively via on Tribal Council as well as working full contribution. Zoom using electronic communication. See STAHS on page 12 Indian Country Today, NCAI split New era for nonprofit media enterprise Trahant, Shoshone-Bannock, was From Indian Country Today; originally hired in 2017 by NCAI to bring the pub- posted March 26, 2021 lication back to life after an “indefinite hiatus” because it operated at an “enor- Indian Country Today has a new owner. mous – and unsustainable – financial loss,” The National Congress of American according to Indianz.com at the time. Indians transferred ownership interests in “This is an exciting time for Indian Indian Country Today, LLC to IndiJ Public Country Today to become fiscally inde- Media on March 26, 2021. pendent and to continue its tradition of an The news enterprise was donated autonomous free press. I have the utmost to NCAI by the Oneida Indian Nation confidence in Mark Trahant’s ability to in October 2017. Indian Country Today successfully lead this new media endeavor operated as an independent limited liabil- in its next phase of growth,” said NCAI ity company owned by NCAI and will President Fawn Sharp. “NCAI has sup- now operate as an independent company ported ICT in its quest for independence owned by IndiJ Public Media, an Arizona the last three and a half years and will nonprofit corporation. continue to be an important ally moving “This is a new day for ICT, which forward in achieving our shared objective has a long history as a premier source of of educating the public about American news for and about Indigenous communi- Indian and Alaska Native Tribal nations.” ties, written and produced by Indigenous In the past 40 years, Indian Country journalists,” said Karen Lincoln Michel, Today has evolved from the weekly The Ho Chunk, president and CEO of IndiJ Lakota Times founded by Tim Giago, Public Media. “As IndiJ Public Media’s Lakota, in 1981; the newspaper was name implies, our focus remains on Indig- changed to the moniker it holds now in enous journalism while emphasizing our 1989. Then it went to a magazine and now expansion into broadcasting.” an online daily digital news publication IndiJ, a combination of the words and daily national news broadcast. “Indigenous” and “journalism” and “We had no idea how important ICT pronounced in-Didge, was incorporated was to our community until we saw first- as a nonprofit corporation in Arizona in hand the connection with our readers and November 2020 and is awaiting approval viewers,” Trahant said. “More than a century of its 501(c)(3) application from the IRS. ago the first Tribal editor, Cherokee Nation’s “We are grateful to the NCAI for Elias Boudinot, called Native news ‘a spa- stepping in to save Indian Country Today. cious channel.’ That channel is even spacious When the news site went dark, there was – and more important – in a digital age.” a huge void in Indian Country,” said Mark For nearly two years, Indian Country Trahant, Indian Country Today’s editor. Today headquarters was housed at NCAI in See Indian Country on page 12 Biden administration resumes White House Council on Native American Affairs WASHINGTON – On April 23, land. “Addressing the systemic inequities sovereignty and self-governance and will out to Tribal communities to address the Secretary of the Interior Deb Haaland that impact Indigenous peoples is the help to fulfill the federal trust and treaty impacts of the administration’s core policy and Domestic Policy Advisor Susan Rice responsibility of every federal agency responsibilities to Tribal nations.” pillars – climate change, racial equity, eco- convened the first White House Council that will require an all-of-government The WHCNAA is an interagency nomic recovery and COVID-19 response on Native American Affairs (WHCNAA) approach across the administration.” principals-level council that includes lead- – through the American Rescue Plan and meeting of the Biden-Harris administra- “The White House Council on Native ers from across the federal government. American Jobs Plan. tion. Haaland serves as the council’s chair. American Affairs will maximize federal It was established by executive order in “The White House Council on Native efforts to support Tribal nations as they June 2013 in response to requests from The WCHNAA will also ensure that American Affairs represents an important tackle pressing issues, such as COVID-19 leaders across Indian Country. It has not every federal department and agency is commitment to strengthen Tribal sover- response, reopening schools and rebuild- met regularly since 2016. engaging in robust Tribal consultations eignty, uphold our commitment to Tribal ing Tribal economic development,” said The convening of the WCHNAA as directed in President Biden’s Memoran- nations and honor the United States’ Rice. “This inter-agency council reinforces comes as the Biden-Harris administra- dum on Tribal Consultation and Strength- nation-to-nation relationships,” said Haa- the administration’s support for Tribal tion has prioritized getting resources ening Nation-to-Nation Relationships. Chairman’s Report

Consent Decree COVID fire in Lincoln County last September. The Tribal Council has been working We continue our battle with COVID- Permanent homes will be located for these steadfastly on the Tribe’s Consent Decree 19. Our clinic has worked tirelessly to residents within the next 18 months. that was entered into as a condition of Res- vaccinate as many members as possible toration shortly after the Restoration Act – Tribal, staff and the community at large. Elizabeth Furse was passed by Congress. The decree limited Lincoln County still has seen a rise in It was very sad to hear of the passing hunting and fishing for Tribal members. cases as have many other Oregon coun- of Elizabeth Furse, former congresswoman ties. Vaccines are available for anyone who Meetings have been held with Gov. and friend to all Oregon Tribes. She was wants to be vaccinated. Kate Brown and the Grand Ronde, Uma- very active in supporting Tribal restoration tilla and Warm Springs Tribes. The gover- and promoting Tribal sovereignty through Memorial Day nor asked that we meet with neighboring many speeches and trainings. Tribes to inform them of our actions. The agenda for the Memorial Day Our heartfelt condolences go to her Ceremony is available on page 9. If you family. We have followed through with the plan to attend, please follow all COVID governor’s request and are prepared to protocols, wear a mask and keep accept- LCIS move forward, which includes commit- able distances. I currently serve as vice-chairman ments from the Bureau of Indian Affairs, of the Legislative Commission on Indian the U.S. attorney and our congressional Housing Services. The commission’s executive Delores Pigsley representatives. It will require legislative The Tribe recently approved three director position has been vacant for and court action. additional FEMA homes on Tribal prop- several months while a new director was Our current interim director has been With the governor’s support, we are erty in Lincoln City. FEMA manages sought. At a meeting on April 23, 2021, Danny Santos and we very much appreci- hopeful that we will be successful in the homes for those folks who lost their LCIS approved offering the position to ate the assistance he has given during the our efforts. homes in the Echo Mountain Complex Patrick Flanagan. time it took to fill this important vacancy.

For more information about the Siletz Tribal language program, please visit siletzlanguage.org.

Tenas Illahee Childcare Center Elders Council Meeting

Board of Directors Vacancies The Elders Council will hold a virtual Zoom meeting on Saturday, May 8, Résumés are being accepted for the Tenas Illahee Childcare Center Board of 2021, at 1 p.m. If you are interested in participating in the virtual meeting from Directors. Currently, there are two vacant board positions. your phone, computer or smart phone, please contact Brian Crump in the Elders If interested, please submit your résumé to Siletz Tribal Council, c/o Execu- Program at 541-444-8233 by Wednesday, May 5, 2021. tive Secretary, P.O. Box 549, Siletz, OR 97380-0549. Vacancies are open until filled.

Siletz News is free to enrolled Siletz Tribal members. For all others, a $12 annual subscription fee applies. Please make checks payable to CTSI and mail to Siletz News.

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Change of address: Tribal members – contact the Enrollment Department at 541-444-8258; 800-922-1399, ext. 1258; or [email protected]. All others – call the newspaper office.

Deadline for the June issue Send information to: is May 10. Submission of articles and photos is encouraged. Siletz News Please see the Passages P.O. Box 549 Policy on page 20 when submit- Siletz, OR 97380-0549 ting items for Passages. 541-444-8291 or 800-922-1399, ext. 1291 Fax: 541-444-2307

Email: [email protected] Member of the Native American Journalists Association

2 • Siletz News • May 2021 477 Self-Sufficiency Program Graduate School Summer Youth Program Announcement Due to ongoing concerns regarding • Youth ages 14-24 If you are found eligible, the 477-SSP Assistance Application COVID-19, the 477 Self-Sufficiency Pro- • 477-SSP Application for Services may provide assistance with tuition, fees, The graduate school assistance application is due by June 30. Please gram (477-SSP) is suspending the Sum- with supporting documentation books, stipends and support services. • Meet income eligibility note the due date has been changed. mer Youth Employment Program – Work Services are constantly being evaluated. • Lacking education credits or below If you have sent in an applica- Experience (WEX) component. 2.0 GPA Please check the Tribal website and Face- tion for 2021, please do not send We will offer Summer Youth Class- • Summer school registration book for any updates. another one. Applications are on the Tribal website under Tribal Services room Training services (CRT) if your local • We serve Siletz Tribal youth along For more information regarding Sum- with members of other federally rec- – Education. school district provides summer classes. ognized Tribes and descendants. mer Youth Classroom Training, please Please direct questions to Basic eligibility requirements include, but • Reside within the Tribe’s 11-county contact your local Tribal area office or [email protected]. are not limited to, the following: service area email [email protected].

Temporary Tribal Student Assistance Program Be safe. Stay home. Stay well. The Siletz Tribal Housing Depart- The student’s share of the rent is To obtain an application, please ment’s Temporary Tribal Student 30% of their adjusted annual income. stop by the STHD office at 555 Tolowa Assistance Program (TTSAP) will Important Note: The student might be Court, Siletz OR, 97380 or call 800- USDA distribution accept applications for the 2021-2022 required to remit a portion of the rent. 922-1399, ext. 1315, or 541-444-8315. academic year beginning May 1, 2021. For example, if a student is working dates for May the wages will affect the student’s Applications can also be down- Program Information Siletz share of the rent. loaded from the Tribal website at Monday May 3 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. TTSAP assists Tribal students who ctsi.nsn.us. Assistance is not transferable. will be attending a college, uni- Tuesday May 4 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. Wednesday May 5 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. versity, vocational or trade school. Cecelia De Anda TTSAP is a time-limited program. The Siletz Tribal Housing Department Thursday May 6 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. Funding is for one academic year. will accept applications from May 1-31, [email protected] Friday May 7 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. TTSAP assists students with rent 2021. If applications are received after Rental Assistance Program Coordina- or room and board in a dormitory. May 31, they will not be accepted by STHD. tor/Resident Services Advocate Salem Monday May 17 1:30 – 6:30 p.m. Tuesday May 18 9 a.m. – 6:30 p.m. Wednesday May 19 9 a.m. – 6:30 p.m. For information about the Siletz Tribe, visit ctsi.nsn.us. Thursday May 20 By appt only

Chocolate Cherry Balls Apply now for Siletz I have been looking for a recipe to Siletz Tribal Charitable Contribution Fund use the dried cherries and here is what I Recruitment for Advisory Board 2021 Tribal Head Start have adapted to fit our food package. The Applications are being accepted from Siletz Tribal members interested in The Siletz Tribal Head Start program original recipe called for almonds, but I serving on the Advisory Board of the Siletz Tribal Charitable Contribution Fund is accepting applications for the 2021 didn’t want to pick through the fruit & nut (STCCF). This is a three-year term from July 2021 through June 2024. Applica- -2022 school year. We have classrooms in mix so I went with our unsalted peanuts. tions (see below) must be received by 4:30 p.m. on May 31, 2021. Siletz, Lincoln City, Salem and Portland, ¾ cup dried cherries* The STCCF Advisory Board is composed of seven members: one Siletz Tribal and offer services to promote children’s ¾ cup unsalted peanuts* Council representative, three at-large Siletz Tribal members and three non-Tribal school readiness skills and assist fami- 1 cup chocolate chips positions. Board members serve in a volunteer capacity but are reimbursed for travel lies with supporting their child’s lifelong mileage and per diem for attendance at advisory board meetings and charitable learning. Put the cherries and peanuts in a award distribution receptions. Classrooms offer 3½ hours of ser- blender or food processor. Make sure it The Advisory Board meets quarterly to review applications from charitable vice per day, Monday through Thursday, is plenty powerful because the mixture nonprofits, community service organizations, schools and local government roundtrip transportation and developmen- will get pasty. programs. The board makes award recommendations to Tribal Council for final tally appropriate activities to promote Blend until the oils from the peanuts review and approval. each child’s success. To qualify, children start to be released and the dough sticks To learn more about the Tribal charitable fund, contact Denise Garrett, board must be age 3 or 4 by the local school together. You may need to scrape down the secretary, at [email protected] or visit ctsi.nsn.us/Charitable-Contribution-Fund. district’s age cut-off date, and income sides depending on your appliance. limits may apply. Melt ¾ of the chocolate in a double Siletz Tribal Charitable Contribution Fund Head Start applications can be found boiler. Tribal Member Application 2021 on the Tribal website or can be requested Shape the dough into about 18 balls by calling 541-444-2450 or 800-922-1399 and put them in the freezer until the Name: Roll No.: and asking for Head Start. chocolate is ready. Remove the chocolate from the double Address: boiler and add the remainder of the chips. Stir until smooth. City/State/ZIP: Alternative Health Dip the balls into the chocolate and Care Benefit Changes allow to set for about an hour. Phone: (Day) (Evening) Effective April 1, 2021, Tribal LIKE us on Facebook at Siletz Email: Council approved an increase to the Tribal FDPIR. We would like to alternate health care benefit from see more people sharing their recipes on our FB page. Deadline for receipt of applications is 4:30 p.m. on May 31, 2021. $50 per visit to $75 per visit. Available services include three Joyce Retherford, FDP Director RETURN TO: CTSI STCCF visits quarterly for either: massage, 541-444-8393; [email protected] P.O. Box 549 chiropractor or acupuncture. Siletz, OR 97380-0549 Sammy Hall, Warehouseman/Clerk Attention: Denise Garrett Eligibility: Enrolled Tribal 541-444-8279; [email protected] Fax: 541-444-2307 ( Email: [email protected] members Fax: 541-444-8306 or 503-391-4296

May 2021 • Siletz News • 3 Legal Aid Services of Oregon Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians – Siletz Community Health Clinic – and the Oregon Law Center, civil 800-922-1399 800-648-0449 legal service providers for low-income Salem Area Office – 503-390-9494 Siletz Behavioral Health – 800-600-5599 Oregonians, operate a public benefits Most Often Requested Salem Finance Office – 888-870-9051 Chinook Winds Casino Resort – hotline where low-income Oregonians Portland Area Office – 503-238-1512 888-244-6665 Numbers can talk to lawyers and paralegals to Eugene Area Office – 541-484-4234 Chemawa Health Clinic – 800-452-7823 get advice on public benefits, includ- Contract Health Services (CHS) – Bureau of Indian Affairs – 800-323-8517 ing unemployment benefits: 800-520- 800-628-5720 Website – ctsi.nsn.us 5292 or Oregonlawhelp.org.

Re-thinking water and hydration: What and how much should you drink? Why? By Nancy Ludwig, MS, RDN, LD, Head As an overview, the human body is Continuing with the point that water ative and positive charge and powered by Start Consulting Nutritionist composed of mostly water – upwards of 2/3 contains information, Masaru Emoto light. It appears to be more gel-like. When of our body. We also know water is sacred showed that water from a mountain we get water from fruit or vegetables, this We have all been advised to drink and there is no life without water. With that stream, when frozen, showed structures is what we consume. adequate clean water. Some people don’t in mind, I will introduce three concepts of beautifully shaped geometric designs, Science is now finding that it is much like water and would rather drink soda, around hydration – 1. Water is wet for hydra- but water from polluted sources created more important than we had realized. coffee or another beverage. Others don’t tion; 2. Water is electrically charged; and distorted, randomly formed ice structures. Dr. Pollack even goes further to say that get well- hydrated despite how much 3. Water contains information. He also conducted research and because water molecules are so small, water they drink. Science is beginning Water is wet for hydration and remains showed changes in water structure when even though we are 2/3 water, it is 99% to share expanded thinking around water vital to life. There are cultures in desert people labeled the container with words of our molecules. and hydration. This month in my role as climates that are hydrated without follow- of intention. He found that positive Check out this informative YouTube consultant nutritionist to Siletz Tribal ing the current water guidelines. They tend intentions created beautiful structures segment for more information – youtube. Head Start, I would like to explore water to consume water from succulent plants and negative intentions created distorted com/watch?v=i-T7tCMUDXU – where and hydration to support our families and and this observation has caught the atten- structures, similar to the above-mentioned he shares that he studies the “gentle community. tion of some scientists. observations in nature. beauty of nature” and he describes the Gina Bria of the Hydration Founda- I would add that traditional cultures fourth phase of water with implications Some of the water science seems a bit tion suggests we not drink “naked water,” have long known this principal and for technology and health. technical. I would like to mention it, yet or even just filtered or decontaminated expressed this as an aspect of the sacred Certainly clean water is still important. keep my approach on practical tips as we water. She suggests, instead, that to nature of water. If water already contains We now see there is more to this than just re-think water and hydration. hydrate we need to learn from nature. information, perhaps we can also ener- how much water we drink. The contem- Practical hydration tips: Nature provides hydrating water as found gize and clean it up with positive words, porary message is to drink adequate plain in fruits, vegetables and seeds that hold intention or prayer. See practical tips 1 water (at least eight glasses) without caf- 1. Don’t drink “naked water,” even if water, such as chia. See practical tips 1, 2 and 6 above. feine or sugar. Because the caffeine acts filtered or decontaminated – enhance and 7 above. Bria suggested that by using chia as a diuretic, it may result in us losing your water. Water is electrically charged. Plants seeds, when hydrated and consumed, we more water than we consume. Sugar in 2. Consume foods such as fruits and are smart enough to improve our water can experience a slower water release to water makes it less available for hydration. vegetables with high water content by taking sun inside leaves to store elec- aid in hydration. She did this personally I believe it is still important to be careful for effective hydration. trically charged water. When we eat the for her mother, who was experiencing about our caffeine and sugar consumption. 3. Add fruit, such as lemon, or sprigs plants, we consume charged water and medical issues from lack of hydration. I suggest you bring this hydration of leaves or vegetables, such as mint, this may improve hydration. One recipe I’ve been experimenting topic to your family discussion and sci- basil or even sliced cucumber. This Some say that placing leaves or fruit, with is: 1 can of coconut milk and 5 tea- ence exploration as you consider the best also means herbal teas are a good such as mint or lemon, in water adds an elec- spoons of chia seeds mixed well, allowed ways to hydrate. Personally, I feel great option for hydration when they are trical charge and improves the uptake into to expand for a minute and then stirred about putting leaves and lemons in my not the dehydrating or diuretic types, our cells. See practical tips 1 and 3 above. well again before refrigerating. This can water along with positive prayer. such as black or green teas. Water contains information. The be used as a pudding with fruit or added I’m having fun with the chia seeds and roots of plants also pull up minerals from to a smoothie to support deep hydration. I feel less dehydrated in the morning when 4. Add minerals or electrolytes such as our terrain, which can be seen as full of I also tried it with 5 tablespoons of I wake. I need electrolytes and use sea salt, a pinch of sea salt (important elec- biological information. We benefit from chia seeds and it was super thick – a little but I noticed I would not drink the water trolytes include sodium, potassium, this information when we consume these went a long way. See practical tips 1 and with salt in it. Perhaps I used too much. magnesium and calcium). water-containing plants. 7 above. 5. Consider placing crystals in water Adding minerals, such as a pinch We now have research studying the Siletz Tribal Head Start offers nutri- (drink the water and do not swallow of sea salt, supports hydration for those fourth phase of water (meaning not just tional support at no cost to Head Start the crystals). people who seem to have the water they liquid, ice or steam). One of the leaders in families. This usually occurs over the 6. Pray or express gratitude to your water drink run right through them. Taking the this area is a professor from the University telephone. If you have nutrition concerns before drinking it. concept of biological information from of Washington named Gerald Pollack. about your Head Start child or want to 7. Add chia seeds to coconut milk to minerals, some say that placing crystals, Sometimes this phase of water is discuss family nutrition concerns, please make pudding or add to a smoothie such as quartz, in water may be beneficial. referred to as the exclusion zone. It is the contact your teacher or the director and for deep hydration. See practical tips 1, 2, 4 and 5 above. form found in our bodies arranged by neg- ask to speak to the nutritionist.

4 • Siletz News • May 2021 DePoe and Google: A life enriched by technology, taking every opportunity to grow My name is Suzanne DePoe and in Always hopeful and never giving up, I Life still surprises me as events con- this article I’m sharing a little bit about had a short three-month break and moved tinue to guide my path. Being a leader on myself and how my journey got me to to a Paul Allen company, Digeo Inc. It GAIN allows me opportunities to share where I am today. I celebrated 10 years developed a Multimedia Moxi Media about our culture and assist in ensuring in December 2020 as a test engineer Center(DVR box) for TV and video. Indigenous Googlers know we are here for Google Inc, the sixth most valuable The commute was awful, however, so for them. Here are some events I’ve par- company in the world, a subsidiary of I moved to another company, Widevine ticipated in last year: Alphabet Inc. Technologies. Its location allowed me to I am an elder and a member of the take the commuter train to work. • Summer 2020, American Indian Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians. My Widevine developed a video streaming Science and Engineering Society Tribes are Tututni, Chippewa and Southern content protection and registration soft- (AISES). Recorded video for my “Path Cheyenne. I’m also Swedish and English ware for providers to create databases of to Google,” sharing how I got here. from my mom. movies available for rental and develop cli- • Participating in CareersOnAir, Spot- I am the great-great-granddaughter ent libraries installed on all devices today light Series on the Google American of Charlie Depoe, a Tribal leader of the to secure content. In December 2010, Indian Network (January 2021) Joshua Band of the Tututni. His son, Google acquired Widevine Technologies. • “Elevating Women of Color at Robert DePoe, married Mary Hauser, Technology has always challenged Google,” where Michelle Obama was Southern Cheyenne/German, both school me and thrilled me at the same time. I’ve one of our speakers (January 2021) teachers and graduates of the Carlisle worked with most operating systems out • Belonging – I presented to Siletz Val- Indian Industrial School in Carlisle, Penn., Courtesy photo on the market today and in the past. I enjoy ley School on my journey to Google class of 1897. Suzanne DePoe using Linux, a terminal-style interface, and some projects at Google (October My grandfather, William DePoe which also has a graphical user interface 2020) Sr. (Chief Antelope), married Marie traveled to many big-name pow-wows (GUI). I’ve worked with most devices out LaFrance, Turtle Mountain Chippewa/ and she was crowned princess a couple on the market today, verifying playback I have had an opportunity to influence French. My father is William DePoe Jr. of times. on phones, tablets, Chromecast, Amazon, how Google moves forward, ensuring (Chief Chewescla). I have one daughter, We were happy being around our pow- Netflix, SmartTVs, Roku, computers, Indigenous peoples are not forgotten or a son-in-law and three grandchildren, wow family and as years passed, more along with all browsers. left out. It’s been an amazing journey. plus one sister, two brothers and lots of family joined in the circle. It’s been won- Working in software engineering has In 2020, I lead the GAIN outreach extended family. derful to see the culture shift in our family. inspired me, so many great technologies team to inform Tribes of the FCC’s My love for discovery has been with In the mid-1980s, it was time to get for one to follow and learn. The field of 2.5GHz Rural Tribal Priority Window for me my entire life. I have been fortunate to to work and figure out my future as my computer programming pays well and has Tribal Nations, assisting with questions. have been around my Indigenous family daughter was 4 years old. I tried going to so many avenues to go down. This year, I will focus on outreach to Tribal all those years. When I was young, my a four-year college – I knew then where I’ve been one to inspire students colleges and universities (TCUs) along dad loved basketball and Indian basket- to locate funding – but I failed to com- with Google Inc. and the possibilities in with student organizations at public and ball tournaments. His team, the Seattle plete my schooling. Raising a 4-year-old engineering as I’m now a test engineer private schools, ensuring they are aware Thunderbirds, traveled and participated and attending college – I couldn’t do it. I for Corporate Engineering Tools and of Google’s resources and internships in these tournaments. needed money. Engagements. I’ve invited students from available to them. My uncle, Pete DePoe, was in Red- I changed my path again and took rural communities in Eastern Wash- GAIN has proposed to replace bone, a famous Indigenous band with a another route, Griffin Business College ington to tour Google and hear about “Indian” with “Indigenous” for our name famous song still played today, “Come and in Seattle. I was successful and completed Google’s projects and what it takes to be to be more inclusive. I 100% support Get Your Love!” secretary/administrative courses. I got a computer scientist. this effort. Early on in life I also fell hard for lucky and was hired at my first interview, basketball and became a three-year letter- Holding up my cell phone to students, My current position is with Corporate Nordstrom Inc., Store #01, as a customer woman. I’ve been a successful basketball I ask them, “What if you developed an app Engineering Tools and Engagements as a service and cash room money counter. referee for 28 years and have refereed at and it was published on the GooglePlay test engineer. I am engaged with the Cor- I had no business attire for a fancy 10 Washington state girls/boys basketball Store?” The software to develop these apps porate Engineering REWs Works Physical retail store, back then nylon leggings were tournaments (WIAA). Contact your state is OpenSource, in other words, anybody Security Team for Googler’s safety and required. My mom met me at the store and associations as officials are needed. can download it, install it and create apps. working on the return-to-work efforts. purchased two outfits for me to get started. I graduated high school and attempted So back to the app, “The app sells for Technology is growing and being I moved from customer service to work- community college as there was no fund- .99 for each download, you sell 1 million. developed; the world needs students and ing in computer support in the Nordstrom ing for me at that time or I didn’t know How much money is that?” Light bulbs adults to think big and learn a technol- corporate offices five years later. of it or didn’t qualify. I worked and went go off, eyes light up. Their minds start ogy. No matter where you live, jobs are to school during those early years. It My first computer was an IBMXT286. thinking about the possibilities. I tell everywhere. College is a good start, but was at this time I began learning of my Voice mail wasn’t even a thing back then them, “You know what your generation you can learn online as well. YouTube.com Indigenous family and who we were – the and this was before cellphones were the likes. Build an app that fills a need/want!” is awesome. DePoe family. norm. This got my career in technology It was during this time that the Google Companies are learning in this time of I began to participate in sweat lodge running full speed ahead. American Indian Network (GAIN), one the pandemic that working on site is not ceremonies, learning how to pray not I left Nordstrom in 1992 as I hit a pay of Google’s Employee Resource Groups always going to be the case, opening many only for myself but for my family. It was ceiling of $26,500 and started to work (ERG), contacted me and invited me to be opportunities as the world moves forward. during this time that I met my daughter’s for Attachmate Corporation. Attach- on the Leadership Council. I jumped at the If you like putting together puzzles, you father and traveled the country making and mate developed emulation software and opportunity. I’ve been on the leadership might want to consider software engi- selling jewelry, visiting and digging at the 3270/5250 boards. council for 2+ years. neering. So many businesses will need Pipestone, Minn., quarries. Representing Attachmate, I visited I worked with The Dalles Data Center an online presence. Who’s going to build It was during this time I had my Fortune 500 companies while in support, in 2019 to provide three years of Wi-Fi those sites? Be a part of it all. daughter, whom I raised for nine months then officially moved into software test service to the residents of Celilo Village. If you like gaming, go that route. Find on a cradleboard and lived in a tipi for engineering, testing all versions of the In 2020, I worked with the Goldendale your endless opportunities if you’re look- nine months. As she grew, we began to software, emulation boards and dial-up School District to administer a grant to ing for a job and livelihood in the field attend pow-wows. By this time, it was my technologies, and reporting bugs. provide Wi-Fi access to a small commu- of technology. Corporations, community daughter, Dawn, and I. Every opportunity that opened for me, nity on the Yakama Nation. Google’s grant programs and Tribal infrastructure around Dawn began dancing when she was I took it. I had family to support me for to the Goldendale School District allowed the world are looking for leaders to take young and got serious in junior high my daughter’s care if I had to travel, After for Viasat Satellite dishes to be installed them through the 21st century. It will test school. We sewed and made fancy and 13 years with multiple titles, Attachmate that will provide the much-needed band- you but if you’re up for a challenge, come jingle dance regalia, so many colors. We was sold and I was laid off. width to this community of 19 homes. join the world of technology.

CTSI Jobs Note: “Open Until Filled” vacan- government will not discriminate in handicap, marital status, politics, Tribal employment information cies may close at any time. The Tribe’s selection because of race, creed, age, membership or non-membership in an is available at ctsi.nsn.us. Indian Preference policy will apply. Tribal sex, color, national origin, physical employee orgnization.

May 2021 • Siletz News • 5 May is National Mental Health Month

National Suicide Hotline: 800-273-8255 Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741

Tobacco Related Cancers for the Month of May

Melanoma and Skin: Cancers: Melanoma is a cancer that develops in melanocytes, the pigment cells present in the skin. It can be more serious than the other forms of skin cancer because of a tendency to spread to other parts of the body and cause serious illness and death. Because most melanomas occur on the skin where they can be seen, patients or their spouses are often the first to detect suspicious tumors. Caught early, most melanomas can be cured with relatively minor surgery. Bladder Cancer: Bladder cancer is any of several types of cancer arising from the tissues of the urinary bladder. It is a disease in which cells grow abnormally and have the potential to spread to other parts of the body. Symptoms include blood in the urine, pain with urination, and low back pain. Risk factors for bladder cancer include smoking, family history, prior radiation therapy, frequent bladder infections, and exposure to certain chemicals. The most common type is transitional cell carcinoma. Other types include squamous cell carcinoma and adenocarcinoma.

Quit line: 1-800-QUIT-NOW

6 • Siletz News • May 2021 In the US Native American women are more that twice as likely to experience violence than any other demographic and face murder rates at more than 10 times the national average. In 2016 there were 5,712 cases of missing and murdered indigenous women and girls (MMIWG) reported by the National Crime Information Center, however only 116 of the cases were logged into the US Department of Justice database. In an effort to help fill some of the gaps in reporting and information the Ur- ban Indian Health Institute (UIHI) conducted a study in 2017 of urban MMIWG cases. UIHI focused on 71 urban cities across the US and identi- fied 506 unique MMIWG cases, 128 were missing persons cases, 280 were murder cases and 98 were of unknown status. UIHI found that the Wear Red median age for the victims was 29. In order to address some of the issues in reporting and investigating MMIWG cases in the State of Oregon, Representative Tawna Sanchez May 5 sponsored House Bill 2625 which was passed on March 13, 2019. HB2625 directs the department of State Police to conduct a study which was to determine how to increase state criminal justice protective and In Honor of Missing & Murdered investigative resources for reporting, identification and investigation of missing Native American women in the state of Oregon. Indigenous Women & Girls In February 2021, Oregon State Police released their first study, reporting 13 missing indigenous persons and 3 murdered indigenous persons. The cases go back as far as 1984. The US Attorney General’s Office plans to have Tribal Consultations with each of Oregon’s Tribal Govern- ments to discuss these matters further and identify cases of missing and murdered indigenous people within each tribe.

Hepatitis Awareness Month Siletz Community Health Clinic Harm Reduction Program can get people connected to testing and treatment for those who test positive. Please contact us if interested. Francisca “Sissy” Rilatos (541) 270-9643 Chris Oleman (541) 272-2721 Sharon Bruns (541) 272-9083

May 2021 • Siletz News • 7 Native Americans in Tech Mixer Join the inaugural Native Americans in Tech mixer on May 12 at 5 p.m. over Zoom. We’re creating a decolonized space for American Indians who work in tech or want to. This community is exclusively for indigenous people of North America. This event will feature an overview of the initiative, talks by American Indians working in tech and a chance for “face-to-face” networking over Zoom facilitated by Erin Grace (Chetco, Tututni) and Court Morse (Chippewa, Ojibwe, Anishinaabeg). We will have ASL interpretation and live closed-captioning throughout. Sign up at pdxwit.org/upcoming-events/2021/5/12/native-americans-in-tech-mixer.

Agenda James Robert Swanson – 1938-2021 5:00 p.m. – Zoom Webinar Open/Virtual Networking James (Jim) Robert Swanson walked 5:05 p.m. – Introductions + Announcements on March 6, 2021, due to complications 5:10 p.m. – Lightning Talks from Parkinson’s disease. He was 82. 5:30 p.m. – Networking 6:15 p.m. – Event ends Jim is survived by his wife of 38 years, Cheryl, and a brother, Byron, who lives in Tucson, Ariz. Jim was born in Seattle, Wash., and grew up in Portland, Ore. He moved with Stuart seeking Siletz athlete stories his family to Missouri in 1954 where, after Do you have a story to tell or know graduating from Webster Groves High a Siletz Tribal member or descendent School, he joined the Marine Corps. who was an outstanding athlete? Jim attended Reed College in Port- I have some Siletz Tribal member land and the University of Oregon in stories so far of people who played Eugene. He was a lifelong and devoted university sports, played a lifetime of a University of Oregon Ducks fan. sport or had amazing athletic accom- Courtesy photo plishments in high school. I want to During his career, he worked as a math James Robert Swanson create a book that your children and teacher in the McKenzie, Eugene and my son can read that has people who Springfield school districts. In 1969, Jim annual summer camp for Native students. look like them and stories to which they was hired as the measurement, research Being involved with this program was can aspire. and evaluation specialist for the Lane always near and dear to his heart and a Education Service District (ESD). After very important part of his life. Thank you to everyone who has his position was eliminated, Jim was elec- Jim served on the Siletz Elders Coun- corresponded so far. Please email me ted to the Lane ESD Board of Directors, cil as a representative for Lane, Linn and at [email protected] with serving as a countywide representative on Benton counties. He was active in the your story or information. the board for 22 years. Eugene Siletz community and participa- Tiffany Stuart Courtesy photo from American Indian Athletic After he retired, Jim volunteered for ted in many activities offered through the Siletz Tribal member Hall of Fame (aiahof.com) Siletz office in Eugene. many years as a math tutor for American Art Bensell (Siletz), 1987, American Indian students through the Eugene 4J Jim will be remembered as a kind and Indian Athletic Hall of Famer Natives Program and volunteered at the gentle man, and will be missed by many. Siletz Tribal R|R Youth Council! May 16th 11:00am Via Zoom Area Office Contact Info

Portland: Katy Holland Youth Council is for ages 12 to 24. (503) 238-1512, [email protected] Middle School, High School, & Higher-Ed students welcome! Salem: Sonya Moody-Jurado (503) 390- 9494,[email protected] Experience Eugene: Nora Williams Leadership (541) 484-4234, [email protected] Community Siletz: Elizabeth Madden (541) 272-9128, [email protected]

8 • Siletz News • May 2021 In-person Culture Camp and Nesika Illahee Pow- Wow have been canceled this year, but … Virtual Culture Camp will take place July 13-15, 2021. Please visit the Mem- bers Only section of our Tribal website (ctsi.nsn.us) and use your roll number to enter. We look forward to seeing everyone participate. Virtual Pow-Wow – A date will be set in August 2021! More information to 2021 come. We look forward to seeing everyone participate. Confederated Tribes of For any questions or further information on either event, contact Buddy Lane at [email protected]; 541-444-8230; or 800-922-1399, ext. 1230. Siletz Indians Memorial Day Ceremony

May 31, 2021 Financial Wellness Resource 11 a.m. By Daniel McCue, Chief Financial • Saving for Retirement Government Hill Officer • Financial Caregiving Siletz, Oregon One of our banking partners, Key Bank, has teamed up with Everfi, the There is no cost to access this Procession to Veterans Memorial – Honor Guard nation’s leading provider of digital online learning platform for anyone at and Dancing Again Singers financial literacy curriculum, to pro- the Tribe as it is complementary to the vide a customized and comprehensive Tribe’s relationship with Key Bank. I The Lord’s Prayer – Siletz Royalty financial literacy program tailored to the would encourage all Tribal members needs of Indian Country. – whether a pre-teen, someone who Welcome – Tribal Council Chairman Delores Pigsley This program will provide the Siletz might be starting fresh out of college Memorial Day Address – Ed Ben membership a learning experience that or minors who might be coming of age Presentation of Flowers can be accessed anywhere from tablets, to access their minor trust – anyone Gun Salute – Honor Guard – Taps phones and PCs 24/7. Once you’re who might need some education about logged in, you can take advantage of financial wellness, to give this a try. Closing – Dancing Again Singers more than 30 relevant topics, such as: As a potential future leader of your Due to COVID-19, social distancing protocols will be in place. Tribe, your ability to make strong finan- The Community Center remains closed. • Checking and Savings Account cial decisions and navigate the financial The restrooms at the comfort station near the pow-wow grounds will be open. Basics system will help you and your com- • Healthy Financial Habits munity thrive. This program brings you • Budgeting for Families financial education in easy-to-follow

• Credit Scores modules that fit your schedule. Find it • Buying a Home at https://tinyurl.com/pebmbf9c.

Be safe. Stay home. Stay well.

477 SelfSufficiency Program NonNeedy Caretaker Relative (NNCR) Assistance for caretaker relatives of a Siletz Tribal child/children

The program may assist with:

Financial assistance and support services to meet the needs of the Siletz child/children. 2021 Lane Family Reunion Who is a caretaker relative? A caretaker relative is not the parent of a Siletz enrolled July 30 – Greet and Meet, 5 p.m., followed by Barn Dance dependent child and is responsible for the care, control and supervision of the child. 21821 Siletz Hwy, Siletz, Oregon 97380 Caretaker relatives can be related to the child in the following July 31 – 1-6 p.m., Family Pot Luck ways: blood relatives or culturally established family members. RSVP/Call Linda Merrill for info at Income Guidelines 541-548-2452 home, cell 541-598-6683 Nonneedy caretaker relatives do NOT have to meet income [email protected] requirements to qualify. However, if the caretaker is receiving ongoing financial All family and friends are invited. assistance from the State or Tribe, the family will not be eligible Apply today! for NNCR. Bring beverages of your choice, chairs & coolers, etc. Call your Area Office BRING A DISH, IT’S A POT LUCK, FOLKS! Must meet eligibility Example of an NNCR A grandparent (or other relative) who is responsible for the care, criteria and services are CAMPING AVAILABLE ON PROPERTY! control and supervision of a Siletz enrolled child who would like available on a budgetary assistance to help meet the needs of the child. basis. (NO water or electric hook ups available)

Siletz Office Salem Area Office Portland Area Office Eugene Area Office Can’t wait to see everybody! Lincoln & Tillamook Marion, Polk & Yamhill Clackamas, Multnomah & Benton, Lane & Linn 201 SE Swan Ave. 3160 Blossom Drive NE, Washington 2468 W 11th Ave. P.O. Box 549 Suite 105 12790 SE Stark, Suite 102 Eugene, OR 97402 More information on activities to follow. Siletz, OR 973800549 Salem, OR 97305 Portland, OR 97233 Phone: 5414844234 If you have ideas, shoot them at me :0) Phone: 5414442532 Phone: 5033909494 Phone: 5032381512 So keep in touch and see you JULY 30 and JULY 31!

May 2021 • Siletz News • 9 Coronavirus Information and Resources

You should still take steps to protect yourself and If you are pregnant or want to have a baby one day, others after getting each shot. you may get a COVID-19 vaccine. It is important for everyone to continue using all the WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT COVID-19 VACCINES If you are pregnant now or tools available to help stop this pandemic and keep plan to be pregnant in the our people safe. You should continue to wear a mask future, you may receive the over your nose and mouth in public, stay 6 feet apart, COVID-19 vaccine when avoid crowds and poorly ventilated spaces, and wash it becomes available to your hands often. you. There is no evidence Getting the vaccine and following CDC’s suggesting that fertility recommendations for protecting yourself and others problems are a side effect of will offer the best protection from getting and any vaccine. spreading COVID-19.

The U.S. vaccine safety system monitors the safety You can help stop the pandemic by getting a Some COVID-19 vaccines need two shots. of all vaccines. The COVID-19 vaccine will not change your DNA. COVID-19 vaccine. If you are told you need two shots, make sure to All COVID-19 vaccines used in Different types of vaccines work in different ways to To protect our elders and our community, we need to get your second shot at the time you are told, so you the United States were tested offer protection, but the COVID-19 vaccine—like any use all our prevention tools. Vaccines are one of the can get the most protection. in clinical studies involving other vaccine—cannot affect your DNA in any way. most effective tools to protect our health. Vaccines thousands of people, work with your body’s natural defenses so you can The COVID-19 vaccine will not give you COVID-19. including American Indians It is safe to get a COVID-19 vaccine if you have an fight the virus. and Alaska Natives. These The authorized COVID-19 vaccines cannot make you underlying medical condition. studies were done to make Each tribal nation or state has its own plan for sick with COVID-19. They do not contain the virus People with medical conditions like heart disease, sure the vaccines meet safety deciding who will be vaccinated first. Contact your that causes COVID-19. Getting vaccinated may also lung disease, diabetes, and obesity are more likely to standards and protect people of different ages, races, health department or clinic to find out when and protect others around you. get very sick from COVID-19. Vaccination is especially and ethnicities. All authorized COVID-19 vaccines where vaccines will be available in your community. important for people with these conditions. People meet the same safety standards as other vaccines with a weakened immune system may not get as After COVID-19 vaccination, you may have some used in the United States. The COVID-19 vaccine can help keep you from side effects. much protection from a COVID-19 vaccine as those CDC has developed a new tool, v-safe (vsafe.cdc.gov), with a functioning immune system, but some getting COVID-19. You may have tiredness, headache, chills, and mild protection is better than none. COVID-19 can cause fever for 1–2 days. These are normal signs that your to help identify any safety issues with COVID-19 serious illness or body is building protection against COVID-19. After vaccines. Sign up to participate after you’re death. All COVID-19 getting the shot, you will be asked to wait for 15–30 vaccinated! vaccines available in minutes to see that you are okay. the United States are Unless you have had an allergic reaction to any effective. Even if you still get the disease after you You should still get vaccinated if you’ve already had ingredient in a COVID-19 vaccine, it is safe to get a get vaccinated, the vaccine should protect you from COVID-19. COVID-19 vaccine. more serious illness. Even if you have already had COVID-19, it is possible If you have ever had a severe or immediate allergic —although rare—that you could get COVID-19 again. reaction to any ingredient in a COVID-19 vaccine, you Experts do not yet know how long you are protected should not get vaccinated. If you have had an allergic The COVID-19 vaccine will be free for you. from getting sick again after having COVID-19. reaction to other vaccines or injectable medications, The United States government is providing the Vaccination is the best protection. talk to your healthcare provider. vaccine free of charge to all people in the United States. No one should be charged for the vaccine. If you have recovered from COVID-19, ask your health You may still get vaccinated if you have severe provider when you should be vaccinated. allergies to oral medications, food, pets, insect stings, latex, or things in the environment like pollen or dust. cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/tribal/

cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/tribal/ To schedule your COVID-19 vaccine, call the Siletz community Healh Clinic at 541-444-9636.

4.22.21

3.25.21

Coronavirus Variants Coronavirus variants are in the news frequently now. Learning about virus variants and why scientists are concerned about Elder Voices Supporting the Covid Vaccine them will help us protect our health and the health of our families and communities. What are virus variants? Variants are slightly different copies of an original virus that makes us sick. When viruses spread from person to person, they copy their codes (genome sequences) with each new infection. The virus that causes COVID-19 has 30,0001 “Here at Makah, my aunt tested positive for sequences in its code and when it is copied – sometimes slight mistakes are made, changing the virus a bit. This changed COVID, she is the eldest in our tribe. Also, our virus is called a variant. only Doctor at our clinic tested positive for COVID, and he has been battling it for well over Changes to viruses are normal. All viruses – including the one that causes COVID-19 disease – change over time. Most a month. With that in mind, my choice was easy, changes and variants do not alter how the virus behaves when it makes us sick. But sometimes certain changes can cause to vaccinate in order to make our little village variants to spread faster, make people sicker, or make vaccines less effective2. These kinds of virus variants are called [b e] that much more safe.” -Nate Tyler, Makah “We need to help protect Our Variants of Concern (VOC).3 Tribal Council. People from dying. So, if they do Coronavirus Variants of Concern in the United States become exposed [to COVID-19], with a vaccine, we do not have to As of April 2021, there are five coronavirus Variants of Concern in the United States being watched and tracked carefully lose them.” -Delegate from the Upper by scientists and medical professionals. All of these new variants appear to be more contagious than the original Skagit Indian Tribe, THD, Marilyn Scott. 4 coronavirus and spread more easily to unvaccinated people. And, some appear to cause more severe disease .

The good news is that we have tools to protect ourselves and our communities from these new variants. To learn more about VOCs, see: COVID-Variants “I was not hesitant [to get the vaccine] at all. I was more fearful of NOT getting the vaccine. We got the vaccine at Can the vaccines protect us from new variants? Chemawa and they were so helpful, friendly, and efficient. YES! All the vaccines we currently have provide protection against the variants56. While the levels of protection can They made you feel good. They answered questions before you asked.” vary, studies have shown that the vaccines protect against severe disease, hospitalization, and death from the variants. Research is on-going into how protective the vaccines are and if booster shots for the variants are needed, but right now, Did you have any side effects? “I was lucky, I was there is no evidence to suggest a significant reduction in vaccine effectiveness, meaning vaccination remains one of the most good. I’m 81 years old, so I don’t know why. Only a little important tools in defeating COVID-19. arm soreness.” -Marie Sagaberd, Lummi & Quinault Elder. How can we prevent the spread of new variants? Stopping the spread of new variants is possible and everyone can help. Remaining vigilant until the majority of all our people, young and old, and surrounding communities are vaccinated is critical. Measures to limit the spread of the virus “For me, I knew it was a decision haven’t changed – wearing a mask, physical distancing, avoiding crowded places or closed settings, and frequent hand between life as I know it now, or the washing – work by reducing the potential for transmission of the variants and, therefore, reducing opportunities for the possibility of being on a respirator and virus to change. Continue practicing these measures until health authorities say it is safe to stop. possibly dying alone and struggling for “I have been a nurse for 40 years. I am very that final breath. As a 69-year-old, my Since I am young and healthy, and our elders are vaccinated – do I still need to be vaccinated? pro-vaccine, for myself and others. And, I do it side effects were extremely mild. I for my Tribe, the Makah. I was not concerned was a little bit sleepy the next day, but YES! Getting vaccinated is especially important now that the virus is changing. When a virus is circulating widely to at all. I know the vaccine had been through that was gone by the afternoon.” unvaccinated people, it has more opportunities to change when copying itself and can potentially make variants that are trials for safety and efficacy.” even more dangerous. No matter what your age, it is critical to get vaccinated when it’s your turn. This will help protect “Overall, I considered this a good “I would What would you tell others? experience. It brought back hope for our communities, including our treasured elders. [tell them] of my positive experience, I would the future. I wish everyone would assure them it is safe. And, I remind them of choose life and science by getting this As Indigenous people, it is our role to learn from those who came before us and nurture those who come next. We dance, the possible effect of getting COVID – severe vaccine.” -Harriette Cheeka, Makah illness or even death.” -Terri Markishtum, we pray, we share, we adapt, we protect. Getting vaccinated is the best way to protect our community and the quickest Elder. Makah Elder and nurse. way to end the pandemic!

1 https://www.cdc.gov/amd/pdf/slidesets/ToolkitModule_1.2.pdf 2 https://www.who.int/news-room/feature-stories/detail/the-effects-of-virus-variants-on-covid-19-vaccines 3 https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/cases-updates/variant-surveillance/variant-info.html 4 https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/coronavirus/expert-answers/covid-variant/faq-20505779 5 https://www.nytimes.com/2021/04/15/well/live/covid-variants-vaccine.html?searchResultPosition=1 6 https://www.nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/t-cells-recognize-recent-sars-cov-2-variants

10 • Siletz News • May 2021 Coronavirus Information and Resources FEMA to help pay funeral costs for COVID-related deaths retroactive to 2020 WA S HINGTON – In mid-April, finalized March 24 and FEMA moved rap- caused immense grief for so many people. A dedicated phone number – 844- FEMA began providing financial assis- idly to implement this funeral assistance Although we cannot change what has 684-6333/TTY: 800-462-7585 – is open tance for funeral expenses incurred after program nationwide. happened, we affirm our commitment to to help individuals who apply. Potential Jan. 20, 2020, for deaths related to the “At FEMA, our mission is to help help with funeral and burial expenses that applicants should gather the following coronavirus (COVID-19) to help ease people before, during and after disasters,” many families did not anticipate.” documentation: some of the financial stress and burden said Acting FEMA Administrator Bob To be eligible for COVID-19 funeral caused by the pandemic. The policy was Fenton. “The COVID-19 pandemic has assistance, the policy states: • An official death certificate that attributes the death to COVID-19 and • The applicant must be a U.S. citizen, shows that the death occurred in the non-citizen national or qualified alien United States. The death certificate Thank you 3 Reminders: who incurred funeral expenses after must indicate the death “may have COVID-19 prevention is still Jan. 20, 2020, for a death attributed been caused by” or “was likely the important. We all need to do our part to result of” COVID-19 or COVID- protect our community until everyone to COVID-19. for protecting can get the vaccine and COVID-19 • If multiple individuals contributed 19-like symptoms. Similar phrases rates are low. Continue the 3 Ws: Wear that indicate a high likelihood of a mask, Watch your distance, and toward funeral expenses, they should Wash hands frequently. apply under a single application as COVID-19 are considered sufficient our community The vaccine is very effective at applicant and co-applicant. FEMA attribution. preventing COVID-19 only after all will also consider documentation required doses. Make a note for your • Funeral expense documents (receipts, calendar: from other individuals not listed as the funeral home contract, etc.) that Brand: Pfizer Moderna applicant and co-applicant who may J&J (only 1 dose needed) include the applicant’s name, the Date of dose 1:______have incurred funeral expenses as part deceased individual’s name, the By choosing to get the COVID-19 vaccine, we Date of dose 2:______of the registration for the deceased amount of funeral expenses and dates are caring for the health of our neighbors, our It is common to experience side effects individual. the funeral expenses were incurred. families and ourselves. such as soreness, tiredness and headache for 1-2 days. The vaccine • An applicant can apply for multiple • Proof of funds received from other cannot make you sick with COVID-19. deceased individuals. If you have concerns, call your health sources specifically for use toward care provider. • The COVID-19-related death must funeral costs. Funeral assistance may have occurred in the United States, not duplicate benefits received from including the U.S. territories and the burial or funeral insurance, financial District of Columbia. assistance received from voluntary • This assistance is limited to a maxi- agencies, federal/state/local/Tribal/ mum financial amount of $9,000 per territorial government programs or funeral and a maximum of $35,500 agencies, or other sources. For more information: per application. cdc.gov/vaccines/COVID-19 For more information about this • Funeral assistance is intended to caih.jhu.edu/resource-library assist with expenses for funeral ser- assistance, visit fema.gov/disasters/coro- vices and interment or cremation. navirus/economic/funeral-assistance.

COVID vaccine availability in your area Coronavirus (COVID-19) Funeral Assistance Local IHS (Indian Health Service) or Tribal clinics may be an option for The COVID-19 pandemic has brought overwhelming To be eligible for funeral assistance, you must you to get your COVID vaccine. Give them a call to find out if this can pos- grief to many families. At FEMA, our mission is to help meet these conditions: sibly work for you. people before, during and after disasters. We are • The death must have occurred in the United dedicated to helping ease some of the financial stress States, including the U.S. territories, and the and burden caused by the virus. District of Columbia. • The death certificate must indicate the death FEMA is providing financial assistance for COVID- was attributed to or caused by COVID-19. 19-related funeral expenses incurred after January • The applicant must be a U.S. citizen, non-citizen 20, 2020. national or qualified alien who incurred funeral expenses after January 20, 2020. • There is no requirement for the deceased person to have been a U.S. citizen, non-citizen national or qualified alien.

Which expenses will qualify for reimbursement? Examples of eligible expenses for funeral services and interment or cremation may include, but not limited to: • Transportation for up to two people to identify • Clergy or officiant services the deceased individual • The arrangement of a funeral ceremony • The transfer of remains, a casket or urn • The use of funeral home equipment or staff • A burial plot or cremation niche • Cremation or interment costs • A marker or headstone • Costs associated with producing multiple death certificates What information do I need to provide to FEMA? Please have the following information before contacting FEMA to apply: • Your name, social security number, date of birth, mailing address and contact phone numbers. • The name, social security number and date of birth for each deceased individual. • The location or address where the deceased individual passed away. • Documentation and receipts for any assistance already received from other sources, including burial or funeral insurance, donations, voluntary agencies, other government programs or non-profit organizations. • If you and another person both incurred funeral expenses for the same deceased individual(s), you can also provide that person as a co-applicant — include their name, social security number and date of birth on the application.

HOW DO I APPLY FOR THIS ASSISTANCE? FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS Call FEMA’s COVID-19 For fastest service You can also visit us online at Funeral Assistance Helpline at following your application, FEMA.gov/funeral-assistance/faq. 1-844-684-6333 you can begin submitting Information is provided in several (TTY: 800-462-7585) documentation online through languages both by telephone and from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. ET, Disasterassistance.gov, the website. Monday – Friday and begin the by fax 855-261-3452. application process. Documents may also be mailed to: COVID-19 Funeral Assistance P.O. Box 10001 Hyattsville, MD 20782

May 2021 • Siletz News 1 • 1 Lincoln County Jail seeks volunteers The Lincoln County Jail in New- TO REGISTER EMAIL port, Ore., is seeking cultural practitio- TO REGISTER EMAIL ners to provide services to American CTSI Youth [email protected]@CTSI.NSN.US Indians who are incarcerated. They are seeking both female and male practi- OROR USEUSE QRQR CODE:CODE: tioners to provide online, one-on-one Cultural and group guidance (once it is safe to hold in-person meetings). Sharing Night Storytelling To volunteer, contact Dennis Art Buckmaster ([email protected]. Poetry or.us) to start the process. This does Music include a background check, but all sit- Modern uations will be considered individually. 5/20, 6/17 Traditional 6-8pm Nuu-wee-ya' STAHS, continued from page 1 It’s an ongoing and complicated process as we seek funding from many

different sources, determining which grants our project is eligible for and how they can be applied to meet our goals. For more information about the Siletz Tribal Arts and Heritage Society, visit siletzartsheritage.org. We are beginning to see positive results as some of these grant applications have 2021-2022 Hunting and Fishing Tags Distribution Schedule been approved and others look promising. Although public activities in which we would normally participate have been curtailed, we still work to keep the Number Season Method of STAHS mission alive in the community. Type of Tag Available Dates Date to Start Tag Issuance Issuance STAHS contributes to online civic fund raisers by donating sweatshirts and other STAHS-related items. We are currently completing an updated STAHS Cook- book. Our regular T-shirts, sweatshirts, hoodies and long sleeved T-shirts are on 8/27 order for future sales. We have begun 2021 with a feeling of optimism as we move forward to our goal of building “A Place for the People.” 8/27

Indian Country, continued from page 1 Washington, D.C., the ancestral homelands of the Nacotchtank and Piscataway people, and moved to Phoenix, Ariz., home to the O’odham and Piipaash people. The headquarters moved to Arizona 7/2 State University’s Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communications in July 2019. ICT’s Washington bureau is based at ASU’s campus and the Dënén- deh and Dena’ina Ełnena people host the 9/24 Alaska bureau at Alaska Pacific University in Anchorage, Alaska. The digital site IndianCountryToday. com reaches about a half million people 9/24 each month. A half-hour news broadcast began in March 2020 as a daily report about the pandemic. “We realized Indian Country needed to hear vital information about the pandemic and how it could possibly impact our communities,” said Patty Talahongva, Hopi, who is the executive producer of the broadcast. “Now, we are excited to celebrate our one year anniversary on the air on April 6, 2021,” she said. The news program has evolved to a full *** Unfilled Deer Early Bow tags must be returned to Natural Resources by 10/8. half-hour newscast carried by FNX and many public television stations across the country. It also airs on an Aboriginal channel in Australia. The show is produced at Arizona PBS and the Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Commu- nication at ASU.

12 • Siletz News • May 2021 Desiderio named new NCAI CEO, to lead organization through new challenges WASHINGTON – The National as it pertains to policy and opportunities and on behalf of Indian Country as a Sharp said. “Dante is proof that the Congress of American Indians (NCAI) is with the American Rescue Plan,” said whole. I look forward to serving once National Congress of American Indians pleased to announce that Dante Desiderio NCAI President Fawn Sharp. “It’s been a again at an organization I respect and with – the oldest and largest and most represen- has been selected as the organization’s stressful year for all of Indian Country and a team that puts their whole heart into tative American Indian and Alaska Native new chief executive officer and he will with Dante’s leadership, I’m confident we their work, and am ready to meet the chal- organization serving the broad interests of join NCAI on May 11, 2021. will build our Tribal nations back stronger, lenges ahead. I thank the NCAI Board for Tribal governments and communities – is In his new position, Desiderio will more resilient and healthier than ever.” the trust they put in me and for the oppor- a place where young Native Americans oversee the day-to-day management and Desiderio, a citizen of the Sappony tunity to return to the Embassy and lead can come work, learn, grow, be mentored operations of the organization for an Tribe, comes to NCAI from the Native the NCAI team as we work together for by the best and return to a leadership posi- improved path to success for NCAI and American Finance Officers Association the betterment of all of Indian Country.” tion. Dante is a success story I know staff the NCAI Fund. He will report directly to (NAFOA), where he spent 10 years as the Desiderio’s time in Native Ameri- can look to and aspire to be like.” the NCAI Executive Committee. organization’s executive director. During can economic policy includes work on Desiderio is also a leading policy “We are thrilled to welcome Dante his tenure, he increased the organization’s multiple economic stimulus and rescue expert in tax and finance, Tribal enterprise Desiderio back to NCAI as our new CEO commitment to its members and grew its packages, such as the Troubled Asset development, gaming, entrepreneurship at this critical time. He was NCAI’s direc- national profile as a steward for Tribal Relief Program under President George among Tribal members, financial literacy tor of economic policy during the Great economic development. He instituted the W. Bush and the American Recovery and and government contracting. During his Recession, the last time our country faced NAFOA Member Tribes model and suc- Reinvestment Act under President Barack career he has been responsible for advis- such uncertain and challenging economic cessfully transitioned NAFOA to a tribally Obama. He was an essential advocate and times. As we emerge from a global pan- led organization. organizer of Tribal leadership voices to ing organizations, Tribal leaders, federal demic and the social and economic insta- “I am honored to be selected by the ensure Indian Country’s inclusion in the officials and congressional offices on bility that come with such monumental National Congress of American Indians Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Tribal economic policy issues including challenges, there is no better leader to to serve as their chief executive officer,” Security Act (CARES) funding under tax and finance, Tribal enterprise develop- guide us through the recovery and rebuild- Desiderio said. “I’ve always loved NCAI’s President Donald Trump and now the ment, gaming, entrepreneurship among ing effort or to help us navigate the future work on behalf of their Tribal members American Rescue Plan (ARP) under Tribal members, financial literacy and President Joe Biden. government contracting, making him a leading national expert and advocate for “Dante’s background in leadership, Funded Orthodontic Treatment Screening Indian Country’s economic development finance and economic policy is second to none in Indian Country. He is the right and tax-related issues. person at the right time to lead NCAI,” For more information, visit ncai.org.

May and June Community Transcription Project If you are interested in gaining skills transcribing and translating historical documents from Nuu-wee-ya’ please contact the Siletz language department at [email protected]. The program hopes to announce opportunities to participate in the May-June training and transcription project soon – and may have stipends available for people interested in participating.

How to access language materials online Virtual speaking groups and beginning community classes have begun again. Contact Nick Viles ([email protected]) for login information.

Ch’ee-la xwii-t’i the word’s pronunciation. Volume 2 con- (Greetings everyone) tains animals, birds, colors, fish, greet- To assist Tribal members during ings and goodbyes, insects, and trees and brush. Volume 3 contains lessons General Council Virtual Meeting this time of social distancing and the on sentence structure and word order. interruption of our normal schedules, Saturday, May 1, 2021 • 1 p.m. • Siletz, Oregon Each lesson has a complete prac- this tutorial on how to access language tical alphabet sound chart. All three Call to Order materials and recordings from the volumes have a word document and Invocation Tribal website has been developed. I audio recording for each lesson. Tests Flag Salute hope you and your families are safe Roll Call are available if you want to use them. and healthy during this time. Hopefully To access the Siletz Talking Dic- Approval of Agenda many folks can access these materials Approval of Minutes tionary, click on Siletz Language web- from the safety of their homes. site. Drop down three lines and click Special Presentation Go to www.ctsi.nsn.us. Enter in on www.siletzlanguage.org, go to the Tribal Council Members Committee Reports your roll number and last four digits Talking Dictionary tab and click on of your Social security number to log it. The Siletz Talking Dictionary Page *Tribal Members’ Concerns on to the Tribal member access area. will appear. Chairman’s Report Click on “Our Heritage.” On the drop Just below the words “Search for” Announcements down, click on “Language.” is an empty white box. Type in the Lots of written and recorded mate- word you are searching for and click Adjourn rials are available in this section. The on the “search” button. The word and Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, in order to continue to keep the membership Nuu-wee-ya’ (Our Words) Language the Athabaskan equivalent will appear safe/healthy, the May 1, 2021. General Council Meeting will be on the Zoom platform. Dictionary is on this page. You can just below the search box. To hear the For access to the meeting link and access code, please email generalcouncil@ click on the selection A to Z to look word being spoken, simply click on the ctsi.nsn.us. Please include your name and roll number in the email. The meeting up written English language words and red ear icon on the left side of the page. link and access code will be distributed to your email address on April 30, 2021, their Athabaskan equivalent. You may have to wait a few seconds by 4:30 p.m. Also on this page are Siletz Dee-ni for the page and sound to load, depend- *If you would like to discuss Tribal members’ concerns, please indicate so in Volumes 1, 2 & 3. Just click on “Study ing on your connectivity. Some of the your email. The Tribal chairman will call upon Tribal members in the order the Materials” and scroll down. Volume 1 words also have pictures. requests are received. contains lessons on body parts, count- Also on the www.siletzlanguage. The deadline to request the meeting link and to discuss Tribal members’ con- ing, relatives, foods and table talk. org website are 14 Language learning cerns is April 28, 2021. If you sign up to discuss your concerns, your name with In these lessons, the written word on videos and many other culture-related Zoom will need to match the name with which you register. the screen is accompanied by audio of videos, materials and curriculum.

May 2021 • Siletz News 3 • 1 SERVICES AVAILABLE Mental Health Services & Life Alert

Mental Health Services 541-444-9648 to speak with a PRC Life Alert • The CHA will assist you in applying representative.  Please contact your local community for Life Alert at no cost through com-  What services are available? • Prior to making an appointment with health advocate (CHA) if you think munity options. If you do not qualify for • Counseling Services – individual or a provider – confirm the provider will you or another Tribal elder could Life Alert at no cost, the Siletz Com- family accept PRC as payment. benefit from Life Alert. munity Health Clinic will cover the cost. • Benefits are limited, first-come, first- • Eligibility Criteria: • Psychiatry Services served. • Enrolled Tribal member eli-  You can reach the community health • Psychology Services gible for PRC advocates at:  What you need to know: y Up to 8-visits annually (more if medi- • Work with CHA to determine • Siletz – Amy Garrett or Hannah • After calling PRC for benefits, the need/apply for local services Glaser at 541-444-1030 cally necessary) patient will receive a letter with pro- • Salem – Cecilia Tolentino at 503- gram details. The letter also provides  Steps to get Life Alert: 390-9494  Who’s eligible? information that the patient can give • Siletz Tribal members eligible for to their provider for payment process- • Contact your local CHA – • Eugene – Adrienne Crookes at 541- Purchased/Referred Care (PRC), ing information. • The CHA will determine if you meet 484-4234 formerly Contract Health Services • You will not be required to use other the criteria for Life Alert (examples: • Portland – Andrew Johanson at 503- (CHS). resources first. This will allow you to live alone, health condition, etc.) 238-1512 go to a provider who does not accept  How do I get benefits? Oregon Health Plan/Medicaid or your • CALL PRC at 800-628-5720 or private insurance. “Hi, I can help Do you need help with OHP? with OHP.” You don’t have to leave your home to apply! Siletz Tribal Behavioral Health Programs Applications can now be done online or over the phone. Prevention, Outpatient Treatment, and Women’s and Men’s

Transitional Living Center The Health Care Marketplace is open now through May 15, 2021. Siletz: 800-600-5599 or Narcotics Anonymous Toll-Free 541-444-8286 Help Line – 877-233-4287 Shop for health plans at Eugene: 541-484-4234 https://or.checkbookhealth.org/ Salem: 503-390-9494 For information on Alcoholics 541-444-9611 or call direct at 855-268-9767. Portland: 503-238-1512 Anonymous: aa-oregon.org

Siletz Tribal Vocational Rehabilitation Program (STVRP)

STVRP is here to assist members of ANY federally recognized Tribe to overcome barriers to employment. We work with individuals who have disabilities and are living within the Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians 11 county service area.

Examples of Services:

 Guidance and Counseling  Referral to Services  Employment Services  Resume Writing  Interviewing Techniques  Job Coaching  Culturally Relevant Individualized Services  Evaluations and Assessments  Training Placement Opportunities  Adaptive Equipment

For more information about the STVRP, please inquire at 1-800-922-1399. Services are provided in ALL area offices, however, to inquire about services, ask to be transferred to the office nearest you listed below.

EUGENE AREA OFFICE SALEM AREA OFFICE SILETZ ADMIN. OFFICE 2468 West 11th 3160 Blossom Dr NE, Ste 105 201 SE Swan Ave Eugene, OR 97402 Salem, OR 97305 Siletz, OR 97380

EUGENE – JERAMIECURRENTLY MARTIN OPEN, Program Director SALEM - TONI LEIJA, Counselor/Job Developer SILETZ – RACHELLE ENDRES, Counselor/Job Developer

• Spiritual • Intellectual / Mind

Siletz Tribal

Voc. Rehab.

• Emotional • Physical

14 • Siletz News • May 2021 Scholarships Important information for college-bound • Fastweb (scholarship search engine) • Open Education Database Graduate and Ph.D. Scholarships Tribal seniors • Big Future (scholarship search engine) Deadline: Varies • Pacific Northwest Scholarship • Tribal College and University May Guide (scholarship search engine) Scholarships • This is the deadline for final decisions Deadline: Ongoing for universities. • OregonStudentAid.gov • Send letter of intent to registrar. • American Indian Service Scholarships • Line up a summer job. Deadline: Ongoing • Full Circle Scholarship • Attend your Senior Awards Night. Deadline: May 31, 2021 • American Indian s Science and Engi- • Review any award letters and be sure neering Society (AISES) Scholarships you understand the terms and condi- • Assoc. on American Indian Affairs Deadline: Ongoing tions that accompany each type of aid. Undergraduate/Graduate Scholarships • American Institute of CPAs • If necessary, arrange for housing and Deadline: May 31, 2021 Deadline: Varies a meal plan (at school). • Accenture American Indian Scholarships • American Meteorological Society • Send thank you notes to any person/ Deadline: May 2021 Minority Scholarships committee from which you received • Wells Fargo Undergraduate Scholarships Deadline: Ongoing a scholarship. Deadline: May 2021 • Army Emergency Relief Scholarships June • George R. R. Martin Literary Founda- Deadline: Ongoing • Tribal higher education and adult tion Scholarships • Catching the Dream Scholarships vocational training applications are Deadline: June 1, 2021 Deadline: Ongoing due June 30! • Attend graduation – congratulations! • NBCU Academy Scholarship • College Board Scholarship • Make arrangements for your final Deadline: June 1, 2021 Deadline: Ongoing grades to be sent to colleges and • AIS Scholarship • Jack Kent Cooke Foundation universities. Deadline: Varies Deadline: Varies • Good luck! Fellowships Internships

• Doris O’Donnell Innovations in Inves- • NW Native American Research Centers • NOAA Internships • Saturday Academy Internships tigative Journalism Fellowship for Health Research Support Fellowship Deadline: Ongoing Deadline: Multiple Deadline: June 30, 2021 Deadline: Rolling • Code Switch Internship • EPA Environmental Research and • American Indian Graduate Center • Northwestern University’s Center Deadline: Various Business Support Program Deadline: Ongoing for Native American and Indigenous • HP 3D Printing Engineering Intern Deadline: Multiple Research Undergraduate Fellowships Deadline: Open until filled • NOAA Fellowships Deadline: Rolling • National Science Foundation Research Deadline: Ongoing • WOTE Agricultural Incubator Internship Experiences for Undergraduates • Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Deadline: Various Deadline: Multiple • NBC News Summer Fellows Program Center Post-Doctoral Research Fellow Deadline: Ongoing Deadline: Multiple • Master of Forest Resources Fellowships • Claremont Native American Fellowship Deadline: Open until filled Deadlines: Multiple CTSITribal Youth

Visit OregonStudentAid.gov to check out more than 500 grant and scholarship opportunities. Online Academic Support

NOW SEEKING VOLUNTEERS TO HELP ILLUSTRATE BEGINNER PICTURE BOOKS IN OUR DEE-NI WEE-YA' LANGUAGE

Use your creativityto help support our littlest To sign up contact your local education specialist: language learners Siletz and Out of Area-Alissa [email protected]; PDX- Katy [email protected]; Salem and Eugene-Sonya [email protected] All Ages (toddlers to elders) and Skill Levels Welcome to Participate PLEASE NOTE: On-line tutoring access is funded with US CARES Act Funds: Students MUST To get started please contact: Nick Viles register by October 31, 2021. Tutoring hours areavailable on a ([email protected] or Jessica Hibler ([email protected]) first-come-first-serve basis as resources are available 541-484-4234

May 2021 • Siletz News • 15 Tribal Council Timesheets for March 2021

Frank Aspria – 3/1/21-3/31/21 Sharon Edenfield – 3/1/21-3/31/21 TC Ind Gmg STBC ED Tvl TC Ind Gmg STBC ED Tvl .5 .5 3 3/3-7 Housing mtg, packets 1 1 3/4 FEMA 1 1 3/8 Special TC, packets .75 .5 3/8 Special TC 1.25 1.25 5 1 3/9 TERO wkshp, STBC packet, 3 2.75 3/9-10 TERO wkshp, minutes, packets gaming report, packets 3.5 3/12 Special TC – gaming 2 3/10 Gaming policies 1.5 1.5 3/17 Packets 1.5 3/11 Mtg .75 .75 3/18 Mediation/CARES cons 3 3/12 Special TC – gaming 3.75 3.75 3/19 Regular TC .5 .5 .5 3/15 Special TC, mobile gaming .5 .5 3/24 Election wkshp 4.5 4.5 1.5 3/16-18 Packets 3.25 3.25 3/19 Regular TC 2 3/20 Read STBC info for wkshp Alfred Lane III – 3/1/21-3/31/21 1.75 1.75 3/23 Sheriff compl, GM lawsuit, GR TC Ind Gmg STBC ED Tvl letter from Umatilla 1.25 1.25 3/5 Audit/Investment Comm .5 .5 2 3/24 STBC & Election Ordinance 2.75 2.75 3/8 Special TC, mtg w/ GM & staff, wkshps TERO wkshp 2.5 2.5 3/30 Housing policy/interviews .5 .5 3/11 Packets .5 .5 3.5 3/12 Special TC – gaming, Special TC Lillie Butler – 3/1/21-3/31/21 .5 .5 3/15 STRCP 1 1 3/18 Willamette Falls mtg, evals TC Ind Gmg STBC ED Tvl 3.75 3.75 3/19 Regular TC 8.5 8.5 3/1-5 Packets 2.25 2.25 3/8 Council, packets 2.25 2.25 4 3/9-10 Wkshp, game Delores Pigsley – 3/1/21-3/31/21 2.5 3/11 Mtg, packets TC Ind Gmg STBC ED Tvl 1 1 3.5 3/12 Special TC – gaming, packets 4.75 4.75 .5 3/1-4 Mail, agenda items, prep for mtgs 2 2 3/15 Council, packets 3.5 3.5 3/5 Audit/Investment Comm, mail 5.75 5.75 3/16-18 Pow-wow, packets 1.75 1.75 .25 1.5 3/6-7 Tour of FEMA homes, mail 3.75 3.75 3/19 Regular TC 1.25 1.25 .25 3/8 Special TC, mail 2 2 3/22 Chemawa Station LLC, packets 1.5 1.5 3 4 3/9 Nat’l Indian Gaming mtg, 10 10 3/24-31 Wkshps, packets personnel, mail, agenda items .75 .75 3/10 Mail, agenda items, prep for STBC Loraine Y. Butler – 3/1/21-3/31/21 .5 .5 2.5 3/11 STBC mtg, mail, agenda items 2 2 3 3/12-14 Special TC – gaming, mail TC Ind Gmg STBC ED Tvl 1.5 1.5 3/16-17 Conf call – Tribes, mail 1 1 3.5 3/2-7 Packets 2 2 3/18 Gov conf call on Willamette 1.25 1.25 3/8 Special TC, packets Falls, mail, prep for council 2.25 2.25 3/9 TERO wkshp, packets 4.25 4.25 3/19-21 Regular TC, mail .5 .5 4 3/11 STBC mtg/packet, CPT .5 .5 1 3/22 Chemawa Station LLC, mail, 3.25 3/12 Special TC – gaming agenda items 3.5 3.5 3/15-18 Special TC, packets .5 .5 .25 .5 3/23 Prep for STBC wkshp, mail, 3.5 3.5 3/19 Regular TC prep for council .5 .5 3/22 Chemawa Station LLC 1 1 .25 2 3/24 STBC & Enrollment Ordinance 1.5 1.5 2 3/24 STBC & Election Ordinance wkshps, mail, agenda items wkshps, packets 5 5 1.25 3/25-30 Consent Decree task force, agenda items, mail 1 1 3/31 Sen. Merkley call, mail 2021 Housing Committee Vacancy Position is Open Until Filled Selene Rilatos – 3/1/21-3/31/21 Any Tribal member interested in consideration to serve on a committee is TC Ind Gmg STBC ED Tvl encouraged to fill out this form and return to the council office. Please mail, fax or email your application to Confederated Tribes of Siletz 1.75 1.75 3/1 Health Comm, COVID, email Indians, Attn: Executive Secretary to Tribal Council, P.O. Box 549, Siletz, OR 4.5 4.5 1 3/2-6 Interviews, COVID, email, packets 97380-0549; fax: 541-444-8325; email: [email protected]. 1.75 1.75 3/8 TC mtg, COVID, email 5.5 5.5 1.5 3/9-11 TERO, STBC mtg, COVID, Name: ______Roll No: ______email, packets 3 3 3.5 3/12-13 TC – OHA mtg, COVID, email, Address: ______packets City: ______State: ______ZIP: ______1.5 1.5 3/15 TC mtg – COVID, email 1.25 1.25 3/16 PW mtg, email, COVID Telephone: Day ( ) ______Evening ( ) ______3.5 3.5 3/17 Hearing, email, packets 2.25 2.25 3/18 COVID, packets, email ____ Housing Committee (1 vacancy for term ending February 2022) 4.5 4.5 3/19 Regular TC 6.25 6.25 3/20-23 Email, packets, COVID If you have any questions, please call Tami Miner, executive secretary to Tribal Council, at 800-922-1399, ext. 1203, or 541-444-8203. 1 1 3/24 Wkshp, mail 5.25 5.25 3/25-30 COVID, email, packets

16 • Siletz News • May 2021 Spring has finally arrived, bringing a sense of renewal and hope! At Chinook Winds, spring also brings GREEN in the form of over May 2021 $45,000 in CASH & PRIZES!

MEMORIAL DAY BINGO Guests who buy-in for the Matinee session will receive a FREE patriotic flashlight while supplies last. Guests who buy-in will also receive one FREE paper Flag game that pays $500. Limit one Flag game per guest. Platinum Package is on sale for $67. $45,000 MONDAY, MAY 31 AT 1PM Spring! LATE NIGHT EDITION

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May 2021 • Siletz News 7 • 1 Three projects for you to help get our communities ready for wildfire season Wildfire Community Pre- fire, which makes it easier to use the • Project 1: Create defensible space accidents and disasters. If you do not cultural burns that help the habitat and around homes. This is done by remov- own a home, consider renters insur- paredness Day is May 1 first foods flourish. ing dry leaves, dead brush, debris and ance. It costs about $15 to $30 per Last year, Oregon experienced some Wildfires can quickly destroy commu- pine needles from yards and gutters. month and helps cover your personal of the most devastating wildfires in its nities. Embers can travel more than a mile Next, trim trees away from homes, barns belongings. history. Wildfires are destructive, but con- on high winds and start new fires by land- and sheds, and place screens over open trolled fires from cultural and prescribed ing on dry brush, pine needles and wood. vents on homes. These tasks reduce the The 2021 wildfire season will soon be burns, are necessary for the habitat and fuels that enable wildfires to spread and upon us. Communities that work together Wildfire Community Preparedness first foods, such as huckleberries and give firefighters time to slow the blaze. to complete these three projects will be Day is May 1 – a nationally recognized salmon, to thrive. • Project 2: Create a home inventory better prepared to keep their families, day to work together to protect our homes homes and communities safe from wild- Cultural and prescribed burns are and communities from wildfire. and build a financial backpack. To start a home inventory, use a phone or fire. These communities will also help safe and effective ways to maintain the For the 2021 Wildfire Community improve the effectiveness of cultural and health of fields and forests across the camera to take pictures of each room Preparedness Day, here are three projects in the home. Open closets, drawers prescribed burns, allowing the habitat and state. Another effective way to maintain we can do together to limit the spread of and cupboards, and do not forget stor- first foods to thrive. a healthy habitat is by working together wildfires and keep our families and com- age areas, such as barns, attics and the For more Wildfire Community to protect our communities from wild- munities safe: garage. Next, build a financial backpack. Preparedness Day resources, visit the Collect important documents, such as National Fire Prevention Association’s free titles, deeds and financial records. Make toolkit and resources page at nfpa.org/ copies or place them and your home Public-Education/Fire-causes-and-risks/ inventory in a safe place to quickly grab Wildfire/National-Wildfire-Community- if you need to escape an approaching Preparedness-Day. fire. These tasks help people recover For more information on creating a by saving them time, money and stress home inventory and financial backpack, during and after a wildfire. visit the Oregon Division of Financial • Project 3: Review insurance policies. Regulation’s Wildfire Insurance Resources Take time to meet with your insurance page at dfr.oregon.gov/insure/home/ company or agent. Review the deduct- storm/Pages/wildfires.aspx. ibles, exclusions and coverage limits If you have insurance questions, con- of your policies and discuss any major tact your insurance company. If you still purchases or home improvements have questions, contact the Division of that were made. Keeping policies up Financial Regulation’s insurance advocates to date helps make sure you have the at dfr.oregon.gov/help/Pages/index.aspx. right amount of coverage if disaster This guest column is brought to strikes. If you do not have insurance, you by the Oregon Division of Financial Chinook Winds Casino Resort talk to a professional about the cost Regulation. For more information, visit and how it can help you recover from dfr.oregon.gov. Follow us on Twitter, find us on Facebook or visit our website at chinookwindscasino.com. Wildfire Community Preparedness Day is May 1. For more information about events in North Lincoln County, visit Let’s work together to protect our families and first foods. lcchamber.com, oregoncoast.org or lincolncity-culturalcenter.org.

Calling all Tribal member business owners If you would like to be on the Chinook Winds Casino Resort preferred Tribal members business list Attn: Purchasing Dept. 1777 NW 44th St. with Chinook Winds, please fax, mail, Lincoln City, OR 97367 email or drop off your business card, Phone: 541-996-5853 brochures, or business information to: Fax: 541-996-3847 [email protected]

Cultural burns are a safe way to maintain a healthy If you want to be part of a great team and looking for a new career opportunity, habitat for first foods, such as deer, salmon, and huckleberries to thrive. Another way to maintain a Please call Human Resources at (541) 996-5800 or (541) 996-5806. healthy habitat is by working together to protect our www.chinookwindscasino.com/careers communities from wildfire. Office Hours: Monday through Friday 8am-4:30pm Visit nfpa.org for a free toolkit to help protect your home from wildfire. Chinook Winds Casino Resort in Lincoln City, Ore., offers 24-hour Las Vegas- Visit dfr.oregon.gov for tips and resources to create a style gaming, an 18-hole golf course, headline entertainment from some of music’s most legendary stars, three full-service restaurants, a secure child care facility and home inventory and build a financial backpack. arcade, and a 243-room ocean-view hotel. Consumer and For more information, visit chinookwindscasino.com, or call 888-CHINOOK Business Services (244-6665) or 541-996-5825. Division of Financial Regulation

18 • Siletz News • May 2021 To the editor: Tribal members: Recently on the news I heard a spokesperson mention a plan of paying reparation In Remembrance MMIWG memorial scholarship is now available to any Tribal to descendants of African Americans who were made slaves. Then I thought about the member pursuing a degree in either substance abuse, mental health and social service Japanese Americans who were rounded up and put into camps when WWII started. counseling. They didn’t become slaves but they did lose their dignity and freedom. As previously reported in SILETZ NEWS, this scholarship was developed by Now that brings me to the Native Americans, our ancestors, and when the white incarcerated Siletz Tribal members to financially assist our members in obtaining their man came to this country and eventually they rounded up the natives and put them on counseling credentials in these specific career fields while simultaneously memorial- reservations. They not only lost their dignity and their freedom, they lost their land izing our stolen and slain sisters. and their lives because a bounty was paid for every Indian’s scalp brought in. The hair Applications are available by contacting your area office education specialist or of the natives was of a distinctly different texture, meaning the whole body was not by writing: In Remembrance, Attn: Alan Kentta, Director, P.O. Box 473, Pendleton, needed. Scalps of adults, elders, youth and even babies were presented for payment. OR 97801. We have received “timber payments” over the years, but the payments were never Applications are due by June 30, 2021. Award recipient will be notified on July 29, called “reparation payments” and were never nearly enough to make up for what the 2021. Award check, certificate and eagle feather to be presented at our Nesika Illahee white man did to the natives. Pow-Wow. Due to timelines, we strongly urge applicants to immediately apply. Possibly now that the new Secretary of the Interior is Native American we may, at Because this scholarship was established by incarcerated Siletz Tribal members last, get the “dues we are owed.” She has already made mention to the bounty paid for in the Oregon Department of Corrections, we would like to take this opportunity to native scalps. Maybe now this country will know it was the white man that started the acknowledge our fallen warriors who have died in custody or shortly upon their release. scalping and the natives did it only in retaliation. We offer this year’s scholarship award in special recognition and dedication to James It’s about time the true history of Native Americans was reported and hopefully “Big Jimmy” Reed (Siletz, died in custody), Bernadino “Star Chief” Garcia (Siletz, died recorded in history books someday. in custody), Paul “Polo” Viejo (Navajo, died in custody), Phyl Mendacino[sic](Lame In conclusion, I wish to mention in the 1970s there was talk of the government giving Deer, died in custody) and Jacob “Star Bear” Holmes (Grand Ronde/Siletz, released). one member of each native family 160 acres of land. That may have been reparation, but We pray you have found the peace you each valiantly struggled for in life. 20 years or so went by and no further mention. Twenty years ago, or so, the Tribe hired In remembrance, someone to research and investigate the mysterious 160 acres. More years had passed Alan T. Kentta when Charles Wilkinson wrote the book about the history of the Siletz Indians in 2010. He did not mention those 160 acres. Did he find the information and choose not to include it? Is it possible he found no record of it? I’d like an answer to that question. To the editor: In this country today, if there are descendants deserving of reparation by the gov- I would like to give thanks to Creator for prayers being answered. March 11, 2021, ernment that would be the Native Americans. So do we get in line or what? Native American detainees at the Lincoln County Jail can now possess religious (eagle) Sincerely yours, prayer feather(s). Virgene Blair Reconciliation has been long overdue at this facility. There have been many attempts for this over the last 20+ years. Through legal battles and disrespect of traditional Indig- enous culture, these things have been righted. There are further efforts that smudging and other Native religious services are offered; these things are an uphill battle with Luhui Whitebear, Candidate for Corvallis School Board facility administration. • Occupation: Student Affairs Often unmerited, overbearing, subjective excuses are made, such as “safety and • Occupational Background: Tribal Higher Education security,” to deny one’s rights to worship. With prayer, persistence and help from the • Educational Background: Oregon State University: Ph.D. Women, Gender & Sexu- community through education and eradication of old thinking, better things can be ality Studies; MAIS; BS Anthropology & Ethnic Studies achieved for all Native peoples who may find themselves here at the Lincoln County Jail. • Prior Governmental Experience: Corvallis School Board Thank you to the people who have helped make this happened. Shu Ashi Nuu La! To educate the facility staff, Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office deputies, and carry on A Voice of Change for the Future the struggle to halt ignorance, historical trauma, systematic racism and injustice. Your I am an Indigenous mother with children in our local schools. After being appointed resolve and assistance is appreciated for the people! A big thank you to Tribal Coun- last year, I am running because of my passion for community-based advocacy work. cil for not letting us get stuck with photocopied chicken feathers as “Native religious My priorities rely on in-depth data analysis, science and a detailed understanding of services.” Suu Ashi Nuu La! budget processes in addressing community needs focusing on: If you have a loved one here and they are interested in obtaining a prayer feather, have them submit a request to the jail counselor. We are doing our best to get them to Education those who chose to be accommodated. • Stronger support of student mental health, food/shelter and whole-self leads to Feel free to make contact with Lincoln County Sheriff Curtis Landers at 251 W increased graduation rates. I am committed to holistic student support as we prepare Olive St., Newport, OR 97365 or call 541-265-4277 to encourage, show support of for fuller return to in-person learning. Native religious services here at L.C.J. or contact Siletz Tribal Council. Avocation for smudging, pipe ceremonies, drumming and singing would be appreciated. Equity Help stop ignorance, systematic racism, historical trauma, injustice of oppression • I support the district’s equity lens used in advancing all its goals for student suc- of Native traditions upon our ancestral lands. Suu Ashi Nuu La! cess. Leading through an equitable lens leads to stronger academic outcomes and Respectfully, lower instances of bullying. Sage Butler

Anti-Racism • I understand the responsibility of board members in ensuring the district’s commit- Tribal employment information is available at ctsi.nsn.us. ment to anti-racism is based in action. I will hold myself accountable in supporting this transformational district commitment.

Endorsements State Senator Sara Gelser Siletz News Letters Policy State Representatives Dan Rayfield, Tawna Sanchez Siletz News, a publication of the Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians, is Benton County Commissioner Nancy Wyse published once a month. Our editorial policy encourages input from readers about Corvallis Mayor & City Council: Biff Traber, Mayor; Hyatt Lytle, President; Andrew stories printed in Siletz News and other Tribal issues. Struthers, Vice-President; Ed Junkins, MD; Gabe Shepard; Charles Maughan, Ward 2 All letters must include the author’s signature, address, and phone number in Philomath Mayor Chas Jones order to be considered for publication. Siletz News reserves the right to edit any Corvallis School Board: Dr. Sami Al-Abdrabbuh, Chair; Sarah Finger McDonald, letter for clarity and length, and to refuse publication of any letter or any part of Ph.D., Vice-Chair; Tina Baker a letter that may contain profane language, libelous statements, personal attacks Organizations: Corvallis Education Association, Oregon School Employees Associa- or unsubstantiated statements. tion Chapter 2, Stand For Children, Linn Benton Lincoln Central Labor Chapter of Not all letters are guaranteed publication upon submission. Published letters do Oregon AFL-CIO, Planned Parenthood PAC of Oregon, Benton County Democratic not necessarily reflect the opinions ofSiletz News, Tribal employees, or Tribal Council. Central Committee, Our Revolution – Corvallis Allies, Corvallis Showing Up for Please type or write legibly. Letters longer than 450 words may be edited for Racial Justice (SURJ) length as approved by Tribal Council Resolution #96-142. Community: Jason J. Dorsette, Co-Founder, SoulForce Education LLC; Shauna Tominey, Ph.D.; Deborah Maytubee Shipman; Dharma Leria Mirza; Lorena Reynolds; Dr. Melissa Bird; Susan Bernardin; Charlene Martinez; Mica Habarad; Nichole Hoff- Please note: The general manager Editor-in-Chief: Mike Kennedy man; Abigail Kurfman; Jimbo Ivy of the Siletz Tribe is the editor-in-chief Editor: Diane Rodriquez of Siletz News. Assistant: Andy Taylor Furnished by Luhui for Corvallis School Board: whitebearfor509j.org

May 2021 • Siletz News • 19 Happy 21st Birthday to Brendan May 13 – Happy Birthday to little Lal! Can’t believe you’re so grown up! brother Lakota Bayya! We miss you and C’mon, son! we’re waiting patiently to see you. You’re Love, Darcy and Sunny so loved, keep doing the next right thing and the rest will fall into place. We love How can this girl be 9? Happy Birth- you, bro. Happy 18th Birthday, Andrew Mike! day to my sweet girl, Deenie, on May 17. Love, Sissy, Mom, Chevelle, Jess and Congratulations on graduating from high Love, Mom the rest of us here on the Rez ❤ school early! We are beyond proud of you and all your accomplishments. Love, your family

Free child ID kits from the Be safe. Oregon State Police Stay home. For more information about the 503-934-0188, 800-282-7155 or Siletz Tribal language program, [email protected] Stay well. Happy Birthday, Mama! We love you please visit siletzlanguage.org. so much and are thankful every day for you. Enjoy your birthday!

Passages Policy - Submissions to Passages are limited to two 25-word items per person, plus one photo if desired. All birthday, anniversary and holiday wishes will appear in the Passages section. Siletz News reserves the right to edit any submission for clarity and length. Not all submissions are guaranteed publication upon submission. Please type or write legibly and submit via e-mail when possible.

CTSI ELDERS INTEREST QUESTIONNAIRE

To Form a Virtual CTSI History Book Club

To learn, preserve and pass on our Tribal history, the Siletz Tribal Elders are exploring hosting a regular Book Club meeting to read and discuss “The People We're Back! are Dancing Again.” We invite Calling all Gamers, k-12 interested people to respond to this notice and answer the following questions: CTSI 1.Your name and the best way to contact you. Minecraft Gathering! 2.What days/times would you be able to attend? 3.How often would you like to meet? Monthly? Weekly? Other? May 22nd, 11am 4.Suggestions of other books to read.

Please respond to: Contact: Brian Crump Phone: 541-444-8233 Elders Council Coordinator Email: [email protected] [email protected] for registration [()()]

20 • Siletz News • May 2021