# NEWS FROM THE CONFEDERATED TRIBES OF COOS, LOWER UMPQUA & SIUSLAW INDIANS (2023) > Briefs, arguments, decisions, and more. URL: https://www.frixlaw.com/law-library/documents/tribal%3Aconfederated_clusi%3A6552a82503fadaec ## Record - **Collection:** Tribal code - **Document type:** Tribal code ## Text The Voice of July 2023 CLUSI Issue 7 Volume 24 www.ctclusi.org NEWS FROM THE CONFEDERATED TRIBES OF COOS, LOWER UMPQUA & SIUSLAW INDIANS CTCLUSI Makes Historic Agreement with the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife: Affirms Rights of Members to Hunt, Fish, Trap and Gather Under Tribal Licenses CTCLUSI Tribal Government, Coos Bay, Ore.On Friday, June 16, the Oregon Fish and Wildlife Commission at its meeting in Newport unanimously approved a co-management agreement with the Tribes that provides for Tribal management of hunting, fishing, trapping, and gathering under tribal regulations. Chairman Brad Kneaper and Ramil Beers provided testimony in support of the agreement explaining the significance of hunting, fishing, trapping, and gathering to the Tribes and the importance of the agreement. The Agreement calls for annual meetings between Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife staff and representatives from the Tribes to discuss opportunities for cooperation on fish and wildlife projects, as well as discussing specific harvest issues. The Agreement covers the Tribes’ five county service area. The Agreement recognizes that regulations for subsistence and ceremonial harvest of fish and wildlife resources, including the issuance of tags, seasons, and equipment will be specifically set by the Tribes. “I grew up in a hunting and fishing family and have Ramil Beers, enrolled member of the Confederated Tribes of Coos, Lower Umpqua and Siuslaw and Chairman Brad Kneaper’s great nephew, talked to the Oregon Department of Fish memories of going out with my grandfather, said Chairman Indians and Wildlife Commission June 16 about what the tribe’s memorandum of agreement means Kneaper during the meeting. “Being able to do that under to him. “As a Native youth, fishing is very important to me. I have been fishing my entire life, the umbrella of Tribal responsibility is extremely important to and I love it,” he said, adding that one of his favorite memories was teaching his younger sister how to fish. (Photo by Nika Bartoo-Smith / Underscore News & ICT) me and I know it’s the same for other members, too.” Also in this Edition: Salmon Ceremony 2023 page 5 Constitutional Amendment Process Continues to Move Forward page 8 Student Recognition Celebration Pages 10 & 11 Supreme Court Affirms ICWA page 12 Graduates Sebastian, Alhana, and Jaid Honored at Student Recognition Celebration 2023 Save the Dates: Breakfast with Tribal Council: August 5, 2023 Salmon Ceremony: August 6, 2023 Constitutional Public Meeting for Tribal Members: July 18, 2023 Virtual meeting over Zoom 5 pm-7 pm (zoom link will be posted in the Citizen Portal of the Tribal website on the day of the event) Confederated Tribes of Coos, Lower Umpqua and Siuslaw Indians 1245 Fulton Avenue Coos Bay, OR 97420 Presorted Standard U.S. Postage PAID Eugene, OR Permit #481 2 July 2023 THE VOICE OF CLUSI Tribal Council Business Activity of Elected Tribal Council Members from May 14, 2023 - June 11, 2023 Chief Doc Slyter 05/14 Tribal Council Meeting 05/15 Premeeting - CTCLUSI & MAPETSI Meeting between CTCLUSI and GSA and MAPETSI 05/23 Meeting/Dinner with James Su 05/24 Met with James Su at Coos Bay Casino aned Plankhouse Mapleton School High School-Flag raising and dinner 05/30 Special GFORB Meeting Meeting with Senator Merkley 05/31 GFORB Meeting Business Meeting 06/2 Language Interview 06/7 Pre meeting for DSL Blessing of Fish Allotment Leader’s Circle 06/8 ELAKHA Alliance Special GFORB Meeting Culture Committee Meeting Daily Emails and Phone Calls Hours: 104.5 Brad Kneaper, Chairman 05/15 Meeting (ZOOM) with Staff, Council and Mapetsi Policy Group regarding upcoming Meeting with GSA. Meeting with GSA, Mapetsi, CEO, Staff and Legal (ZOOM) regarding future land transfers from GSA. Meet with North Point regarding Amendments to Oregon House Bill 3382 to mitigate concerns over cultural and environmental impacts the bill potentially exposes. 05/22 Meet (ZOOM) with Moss Adams regarding this years annual audit. Required as part of the audit to ask routine questions. 05/23 Dinner meeting with representatives of Nevada State Bank, as part of ongoing business relationship with the Tribe. 05/24 Event at Mapleton School District, Tribal Flag display, and traditional salmon bake by Tribal members. Hoped to be an annual event. 05/26 Blue Bills Restaurant and Bar Grand Opening. 05/30 Pre-meeting (ZOOM) regarding upcoming meeting with Senator Merkley with Mapetsi Policy Group, Council, CEO and Staff. Meeting with Senator Merkley (ZOOM) with Mapetsi Policy Group, Council, CEO and Staff. 05/31 Gaming Operational Review Board (GFORB) Tribal Council Business Meeting. 06/06 Meeting with Staff regarding two upcoming (separate) consults with Oregon State University and Department of State Lands regarding the Elliot State Research Forest. 06/07 Meet with Purpose and Performance Group regarding training for staff and Council. Premeeting for DSLK Consult. Leaders Circle – Consult with Oregon State University regarding Elliot State Forest. Leaders Circle – Consult with Department of State Lands regarding Elliot State Forest. 06/09 Attend meeting between Staff and State regarding Indian Child Welfare Act. Hours: 135.5 Julie Siestreem 05/14 Tribal Council Regular Meeting with General Membership 05/15 Tribal Council Pre-Meeting for GSA Meeting Tribal Council Meeting with GSA Shutter Creek PBC Follow up meeting Panel Interview Fish and Wildlife Officer 05/16 West Coast Offshore Wind Transmission Study Pacufuc Northwest National Laboratory 05/17 All Day Legislative Commission Indian Services Annual Nine Tribes Meeting Salem State Capitol Building Informal dinner meeting with Governor Kotek and the first lady, Mahonia Hall, Salem 05/18 Annual Legislative Commission Indian Services Spring Celebration, Wilson Park Capitol Grounds, Salem 05/23 Testimony HB3086-7 (5 Regional River Basin) Tribal Council Annual Meeting with James Su VP Nevada State Bank, TRC Florence 05/24 Mapleton High School CTCLUSI Flag installation Ceremony 05/26 WH Tribal Electrification Listening Session 05/30 Tribal Council Pre-Meeting for Sen. Jeff Merkley meeting Tribal Council Meeting with Sen. Jeff Merkley 05/31 GFORB monthly meeting TRC Florence Tribal Council Monthly Business meeting 06/05 WH Coastal Climate webinar WH Language Webinar 06/07 Tribal Council, CEO Lee Ann Wander, Forestry Director Colin Beck Pre-meeting OSU and DSL consultation Leaders Circle Tribal Council, CEO Lee Ann Wander, Forestry Director Colin Beck consultation with OSU and DSL 06/08 GFORB Special meeting 06/09 WH Tribal Data Webinar 06/11 Regular Monthly Tribal Council meeting with General Membership Wanda Williford Celebration of Life Ceremony Hours: 130 Doug Barrett, Vice Chair 05/15 CTCLUSI / MAPETSI Pre Meeting & MAPETSI Meeting PBC Follow-up Meeting ERG Leadership Retreat 05/16 ODHS Leadership Retreat 05/17 MHA / LADCP Monthly Meeting LCIS Symposium – Governor’s Dinner 05/18 LCIS outside Flag Ceremony at the Capital park 05/22 Wait Ranch Communications Engagement Team OSU Coalition Cath-up Meeting 05/23 Reclaiming Native Psychological Brilliance 2023 Meeting and Dinner with James Su, Nevada State Bank 05/24 Mapleton School Flag Ceremony and Salmon Bake 05/26 Lamprey Float 05/30 Senator Merkley Pre-Meeting Senator Merkley Zoom Meeting Blue Earth Board Meeting 05/31 GFORB Meeting Tribal Council Business Meeting 06/01 Substance use Disorder ECHO 06/07 Pre-Meeting with DSL / Vicki Walker Meeting with DSL / Vicky Walker Leaders Circle 06/08 Elakha Board Meeting SOR & TOR Grant Meetings Culture Committee Meeting 06/11 Tribal Council Meeting Wanda Williford Member Hours: 162 hrs. & emails Iliana Montiel 05/23 Dinner with James Su (Nevada State Bank) at TRC Florence 05/30 Zoom with Senator Merkley 05/31 GFORB/ Tribal Council Business Meeting 06/07 Leaders Circle 06/08 Special GFORB meeting reading & responding to emails. Hours: 30 Enna Helms Report unavailable at time of print Upcoming Tribal Council Meeting Sunday, July 9, 2023 Tribal Community Center and Zoom 10:00 a.m. pst Zoom link to this meeting will be posted in the Citizen Portal of www.ctclusi.org www.ctclusi.org July 2023 QUESTIONS OR SUGGESTIONS? The CLUSI Tribal Council welcomes your ideas, comments, criticisms, etc. Please write to: Confederated Tribes of Coos, Lower Umpqua & Siuslaw Indians ATTN: Tribal Council 1245 Fulton Ave. Coos Bay, Oregon 97420 COMMITTEE INTEREST LIST If you are a Tribal member and interested in being on a committee, please contact Jeannie McNeil, 541-888-7506. We are currently keeping a list of those interested so that when a committee vacancy occurs we can fill it as soon as possible, so please contact us whether there is a vacancy or not. Information ATTENTION VETERANS AND FAMILIES Veterans we need your help. Veterans are honored at the Salmon Ceremony each year. Please contact Jeannie McNeil at 541-888-7506 or at email jmcneil@ctclusi.org for new requirements needed to be honored. US FOREST SERVICE NORTHWEST FOREST PASSES Now available at the Tribal Administration Building, Florence and Eugene Outreach offices. Requirements are: 1. Must be a CTCLUSI Tribal member. 2. Must be over 16 years old. 3. You may only be issued one per year. The passes hang from the rear view mirror and are good for access to some Forest Service fee areas. Area maps available. 3 CHANGES? Please let us know if you have a change in address, phone number, name or addition to your family. Changes should be submitted to Enrollment Dept., either online at www. ctclusi.org/enrollment or mail to Enrollment Dept., 1245 Fulton Ave., Coos Bay, OR 97420. Phone: 541-888-7538 or Fax: 541888-2853. TRIBAL COUNCIL MINUTES The full meeting video is available at www. ctclusi.org If you are an enrolled member of CTCLUSI and would like to receive typed copies of the Tribal Council Meeting minutes please submit a written request to Jeannie McNeil 1245 Fulton Ave. Coos Bay OR 97459 or jmcneil@ctclusi.org including the date requested , your name , current address and Tribal Roll number for verification. CTCLUSI Departments, Services & Offices Government Office Lee Ann Wander Chief Executive Officer 1245 Fulton Avenue Coos Bay, OR 97420 Phone 541-888-9577 lwander@ctclusi.org 1245 Fulton Avenue Coos Bay, OR 97420 Phone 541-888-4873 Toll free 1-800-227-0392 Fax 541-888-5388 prc@ctclusi.org Health Services Division Iliana Montiel, Interim Director 1245 Fulton Avenue Coos Bay, OR 97420 Phone 541-888-7526 Toll free 1-888-280-0726 Fax 541-888-5388 imontiel@ctclusi.org Department of Human Resources Ginny Hall, Director 1245 Fulton Avenue Coos Bay, OR 97420 Phone: 541-888-7508 Toll Free: 1-888-280-0726 Fax: 541-897-9881 ghall@ctclusi.org Tribal Housing Department Jamie Meyers, Director 1245 Fulton Avenue Coos Bay, OR 97420 Phone 541-435-7150 Fax 541-435-0492 jmeyers@ctclusi.org Education Department Jemiah Wassman, Director 1245 Fulton Avenue Coos Bay, OR 97420 Phone: 541-888-1314 Toll free 1-888-280-0726 jwassman@ctclusi.org Social Services Department Kelly Bradley, Director 1245 Fulton Avenue Coos Bay, OR 97420 Phone 541-888-7526 Toll Free 1-888-280-0726 Fax 541-888-5388 kbradley@ctclusi.org Tribal Dental Clinic 1245 Fulton Avenue Coos Bay, OR 97420 Phone 541-888-6433 Toll free 1-877-688-6433 Fax 541-888-7505 Purchased/Referred Care Elders Activities Budget Committee Elders Committee stephaniewatkins1360@gmail.com 5. Teresa Spangler 6. Allen (Butch) Swigert 7. Roseanna Perry 1. Michelle Brix 2. Julie Siestreem 3. Wendy Garcia 4. Ashley Russell, Chair arussell@ctclusi.org 5. Michael Brainard 1. Arleen Perkins, Chair 2. VACANT 3. Warren (Tom) Brainard 4. VACANT 5. Martin Harris 6. Allen (Butch) Swigert 7. Brad Kneaper Tribal Court J.D. Williams, Chief Judge 1245 Fulton Avenue Coos Bay, OR 97420 Phone 541-888-9577 Toll Free 1-888-280-0726 tribalct@ctclusi.org Tribal Gaming Commission Rusty Bossley, Executive Director of the Gaming Commission 5647 Hwy 126, Suite 100 Florence, OR 97439 Phone 541-997-2830 Fax 541-997-7293 rbossley@ctclusi.org Cultural Department Jesse Beers, Cultural Stewardship Manager Physical: 3757 Hwy 101 Mailing: P.O. Box 2000 Florence, OR 97439 Phone 541-997-6685 Fax 541-997-1715 jbeers@ctclusi.org Eugene Outreach Office 135 Silver Lane, Suite 200 Eugene, OR 97404 Phone 541-744-1334 Toll Free 1-800-877-2718 Fax 541-744-1349 Investment Committee 1. Roseanna Perry 2. Jade Fong 3. VACANT 4. VACANT 5. Vicki Faciane Language Committee 1. Warren T. Brainard 2. Patricia Whereat-Phillips 3. Skip Brainard 4. Vicki Faciane, Chair vicki.faciane@gmail.com 5. Teresa Spangler 1. Jennifer L. Conway-Portillo 2. Tammy Evarts 3. Jade Fong 4. VACANT 5. Jamie Biesanz, Chair jamiebiesanz@gmail.com 6. Jesse Beers 7. Ayuthea Cisneros Housing Committee Election Board Enrollment Committee 1. Earla Kirk 2. Doug Barrett 3. Jennifer L. Conway-Portillo 4. VACANT 5. Michael Brainard 6. Patrica Whereat-Phillips, Chair pphillips@ctclusi.org Education Committee Florence Outreach Office Physical: 3757 Hwy 101 Mailing: P.O. Box 2000 Florence, OR 97439 Phone 541-997-6685 Toll Free 1-866-313-9913 Fax 541-997-1715 Tribal Committee Members 1. Martin Harris 2. Wendy Garcia 3. Margaret Corvi 4. Stephanie Watkins, Chair Culture Committee Iliana Montiel, Interim Director 1245 Fulton Ave. Coos Bay, OR 97420 Phone 541-888-7526 Fax 541-888-7526 Toll Free 1-888-280-0726 imontiel@ctclusi.org 1. Wendy Garcia 2. Danny Krossman, Chair dkrossman33@gmail.com 3. Enna Helms 4. VACANT 5. VACANT THE VOICE OF CLUSI If you or anyone in your Tribal family has had any recent special awards or achievements that you would like to share, please submit your information and photos to the newsletter. I look forward to hearing from you! -Morgan Gaines mgaines@ctclusi.org 1. VACANT 2. Michael Brainard, Chair qaxas19@gmail.com 3. Teresa Gagner 4. Mark Petrie 5. Josh Davies 6. Pauline Benson 7. Ashley Russell Tribal Police Brian Dubray, Police Chief 5647 Hwy 126, Suite 100 Florence, OR 97439 Phone 541-997-6011 Fax 541-902-6507 bdubray@ctclusi.org Department of Natural Resources Ashley Russell, Assistant Director 1245 Fulton Avenue Coos Bay, OR 97420 Phone 541-888-9577 Toll Free 1-888-280-0726 Fax 541-888-2853 arussell@ctclusi.org Are you a Tribal member who would like to learn more about a Tribal Committee, or are interested in being on a committee? Reach out to a Committee Chair person or a Tribal Government Staff member. Committee Chairs are noted at left with current sitting members of the committee at the time of publication of this paper. For questions, please contact Jeannie McNeil, 541-888-7506 or jmcneil@ctclusi.org The Tribe maintains a list of those interested so that when a committee vacancy occurs we can fill it as soon as possible, so please contact us whether there is a vacancy or not. Letters of interest remain on file for one full year. Members can serve on up to three committees simultaneously. Upcoming Events Turn to page 19 of this publication for a monthly calendar of upcoming events or visit the Events Calendar on the tribal website at https://ctclusi.org/events/ Tribal Council Doc Slyter, Chief Tribal Chief 541-808-7625 (cell) dslyter@ctclusi.org Enna Helms Position #1 Council 541-297-7538 (cell) enna.helms@ctclusi.org Brad Kneaper, Chair Position #2 Council 541-808-5178 (cell) brad.kneaper@ctclusi.org Julie Siestreem Position #3 Council 541-294-6055 jsiestreem@ctclusi.org Teresa Spangler Position #4 Council 541-294-3972 tspangler@ctclusi.org Iliana Montiel Position #5 Council 541-217-4613(cell) iliana.montiel@ctclusi.org Doug Barrett, Vice-Chair Position #6 Council 541-297-2130 (cell) doug.barrett@ctclusi.org Council Meeting July 9, 2023 10:00 a.m. Coos Bay Community Center 338 Wallace Ave. Please login to the citizen portal of www.ctclusi.org and click Council Meetings for the zoom link to this meeting. Agenda: 1. Call to Order 2. Invocation 3. Approval of Minutes as needed 4. Tribal Council Reports 5. Tribal Chief Executive Officer Report 6. Chief Financial Officer Report 7. Old Business 8. New Business 9. Other 10. Good of the Tribes 11. Executive Session as needed Council meeting video available to view at www.ctclusi.org 4 July 2023 THE VOICE OF CLUSI Greetings everyone, Good news to share! The Oregon Department of Fish & Wildlife (ODFW) voted unanimously to approve the comanagement agreement with CTCLUSI. Next step is council approval by resolution. Look for more information to be posted on the CTCLUSI website as soon as we can get it together. Tribal Council Corner Please be patient as we work to make this happen as soon as possible whether or not it’s in time for fall hunting. We want to make sure this is done right. Once we have a path forward, we will get the information out to you by all resources available to us. In the meantime, we will update as we find out more. Be safe everyone. Chairman Brad Kneaper You can watch the recorded presentation and full meeting online at https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLLleHsPDijGbqSY4yZ2gznuaaZSIkcqLN (please note, there is substantial feedback/ recording issues that do make it difficult on occasion to fully hear the speakers) Chairman Kneaper, alongside CTCLUSI Counsel Rick Eichstaedt, and ODFW Davia Palmeria made a presentation and statements starting at 0:49 seconds into the start of the video. Chairman Kneaper gives his statement beginning at the 2:24 mark. Siuslaw Tribal member Ramil Beers (as seen on the cover page image) made an address beginning at the 33:08 and ending at the 35:36 mark of the recording. Two More Tribes Make Historic Co-Management Agreements With Oregon Excerpt of Article by Karina Brown and Nika Bartoo-Smith / “Before termination, our tribe had lifetime fishing permits,” Underscore News + ICT said Ramil Beers, CLUSI tribal member and Chairman Brad Kneaper’s great nephew. “But after we got terminated, in order June 19, 2023 for our tribe to be restored, we had to leave that behind. Now we have to get Two tribes in Oregon made historic our permits from people other than our agreements with the Oregon Department own tribe. I would much rather get the of Fish and Wildlife on Friday that affirm permits from my tribe, where I know the the rights of their members to hunt, fish, money pays for restoration projects, trap and gather under tribal, rather than native plant restoration and much more.” state licenses. The agreements apply to The agreements are “a great opportunity subsistence and ceremonial activities, not to expand the pace and scale of habitat commercial enterprises. restoration in the areas of interest for the “There will be a shift where trial members tribe,” said Davia Palmeri, acting deputy already participating under a state director for fish and wildlife programs at framework will instead participate under a ODFW. tribal framework,” Davia Palmeri, While increasing opportunities acting deputy director for fish and for tribal members to harvest wildlife programs at ODFW, said fish and wildlife resources, these at the June 16 meeting. agreements will also allow the Four tribes now operate state and tribes to pool finances on under such agreements — The cooperative restoration projects. Confederated Tribes of Siletz “The intent is to increase Indians, the Confederated Tribes opportunities for tribal members to of Coos, Lower Umpqua and harvest fish and wildlife consistent Siuslaw Indians (CLUSI), Cow with tribal values rather than Creek Band of Umpqua Tribe of consistent with state values, which Indians and the Coquille Indian is the case under a state fish and Tribe. Siletz Chairman Delores From left, Rick Eichstaedt, attorney for the Confederated Tribes of wildlife license,” Palmeri said. She added that in some cases, this Pigsley compared the moment Coos, Lower Umpqua and Siuslaw Indians; CTCLUSI Chairman Brad to one in 1977, when Siletz Kneaper; and Davia Palmeri, acting deputy director for fish and wildlife will mean tribal members will have regained federal recognition of programs at ODFW. Palmeri presented the proposed Memorandum of hunting and fishing opportunities its sovereignty, over two decades Agreement to the ODFW board of commissioners, which the board that other Oregonians do not have, approved unanimously. (Photos by Bob Swingle, ODFW) though she does not anticipate after termination. a large increase of hunting and “This agreement is probably as fishing participation, rather a shift meaningful as restoration itself,” in management and licensing from the state to the tribes. Chairman Pigsley told the commissioners. “Our intent is that it’s a perpetual agreement that’s really … defining the relationship between the department and the tribe,” Tribes to oversee fishing and hunting licensing for tribal Palmeri said. members Enrolled members of the Confederated Tribes of … Coos, Lower Umpqua and Siuslaw Indians will now be able to Read the full news article online at https://www.underscore.news/reporting/ participate in hunting, fishing, trapping and gathering licensed two-more-tribes-make-historic-co-management-agreements-with-oregon by the tribe. www.ctclusi.org July 2023 5 2023 Annual Salmon Ceremony Sunday, August 6th Begins at 11:00am Lunch at 12:00 noon Location: Gregory Point/Chiefs Island Lighthouse Shuttle transport only to the site from Coos Head Come and enjoy family and friends! Raffle Prizes - Smoked Salmon Dance and Songs Honoring our VeteransT-Shirts-Fry Bread Saturday, August 5th Breakfast with Tribal Council Tribal Council will be cooking a variety of breakfast items for the Tribal membership and their families 9:00am - 11:00am Location: Community Center 338 Wallace Ave Coos Bay, OR RSVP Needed please call 1-541-435-7155 Questions? Contact Meagan Davenport 541-888-7509 Please RSVP so that we can ensure seating and food for everyone. Call 1-541-435-7155 Dry Camping for RV/Tents-please call Tribal Veterans to be Honored at Salmon Ceremony: If you or a member of your family are a CTCLUSI enrolled member and/or CTCLUSI Tribal descendant and a Veteran, please submit your DD214's to Meagan Davenport at mdavenport@ctclusi.org or call 541-888-7509 to be recognized during Salmon Ceremony on August 6, 2023. Let us know what branch you served in and submit a 5" x 7" photo to be placed on the Veterans Wall in Tribal Hall. Resolution Summaries RESOLUTION NO.: 23-054 Date of Passage: April 26, 2023 Subject (title): Gaming Order Agreement Explanation: Tribal Council approves this amendment for Three Rivers Casino Coos Bay. Vote 6-0-1 RESOLUTION NO.: 23-057 Date of Passage: April 26, 2023 Subject (title): Participation Equipment Order Explanation: Tribal Council approves this amendment for Three Rivers Casino Coos Bay and Florence. Vote 6-0-1 RESOLUTION NO.: 23-0452 Date of Passage: April 26, 2023 Subject (title): Janitorial Agreement Explanation: Tribal Council approves this janitorial agreement for services in Coos Bay. Vote 4-2-0 RESOLUTION NO.: 23-055 Date of Passage: April 26, 2023 Subject (title): Gaming Order Agreement Explanation: Tribal Council approves this amendment for Three Rivers Casino Coos Bay. Vote 6-0-1 RESOLUTION NO.: 23-053 Date of Passage: April 26, 2023 Subject (title): Gaming Amendment Agreement Explanation: Tribal Council approves this amendment for Three Rivers Casino Coos Bay. Vote 6-0-1 RESOLUTION NO.: 23-056 Date of Passage: April 26, 2023 Subject (title): Gaming Order Agreement Explanation: Tribal Council approves this amendment for Three Rivers Casino Florence. Vote 6-0-1 RESOLUTION NO.: 23-058 Date of Passage: April 26, 2023 Subject (title): 2022 Abbreviated Annual Performance Report Submission IHBG- ARPA Explanation: Tribal Council approves this submission of data from the Housing Department to HUD . Vote 6-0-1 RESOLUTION NO.: 23-051 Date of Passage: April 26, 2023 Subject (title): Eugene 4J School District, Title VI Natives Program support FY 2023-2024 Explanation: Tribal Council approves the curriculum and supports this program for Native youth. Vote 7-0-0 Can You Find Me? In this edition of The Voice of CLUSI there is a hidden image of a SALMON - exactly like the one pictured at right. It could be any size and on any page, but will look exactly like the one shown here. If you find it, email mgaines@ctclusi.org to have your name entered into a prize drawing. In your email you must include your name, age, address (for mailing purposes) and contact phone number. In your email you must also let us know what page and where on the page you spotted the SALMON hiding! Must email by July 19th to be included in the raffle drawing. Winners will be notified by phone or email and their name will appear in an upcoming edition of the Voice of CLUSI paper. Prizes will vary and are provided by different CTCLUSI Government departments. June “Camas Flower” Edition Winners: Adult - DeeDee Plaep | Youth - Benjamin Hopkins In this public paper, some Resolution titles and explanation will not be displayed or minimal details due to confidentiality. This Salmon design was created by Tribal Elder Paul Benasco. He was an active member of the Tribal community before he walked on in 2020. As a hobby he enjoyed woodworking. He created many beautiful wall hangings of Bald Eagles and more. His work is on display in the CTCLUSI Government building as well as many other Tribal Nations and the homes of family and friends. Camas Flower from June edition was located on page 15 in bottom right corner of bottom left photo 6 THE VOICE OF CLUSI Smoke Ready Checklist Air pollution can harm health and may have lasting effects. Below are a few precautionary actions that we can take to get ready for wildfire smoke events. For more information visit the Air Quality Program tab at: ctclusi.org/department-of-natural-resources-culture/ or www.oregonsmoke.org Create Clean Indoor Air Choose a room that you can close off from outside air. Use a portable air cleaner/purifier with the highest rated MERV filter. Attach a MERV filter to a box fan for inexpensive DIY air cleaner. Gather N95 Masks If you must be outside in heavy smoke, NIOSH approved masks with the label "N95" or "N100" are the most effective at protection from air pollution. Make a Plan for Vulnerable Household Members Consider how to keep children, elders, pregnant women, those with heart or lung disease, and outdoor workers out of smoky air whenever possible. Consider Ideas to Stay Mentally Strong and Engaged Social connection is key when you're isolated indoors. Identify someone you can ask for help, and someone you can help. Make a list of things that have helped you cope with smoke in the past. Know How to Get Air Quality Information Keep an eye on PM2.5 levels in your area during wildfires. AirNow is a very reliable source which is referenced by many different air quality professionals. There are two websites: AirNow.gov or fire.airnow.gov. The EPA's Smoke Sense app also has some great air quality and smoke safety educational information. July 2023 Protect Yourself, Your Loved Ones from Wildfire Smoke Oregon Health Authority and Oregon Department of Human Services Contributed by Diann Weaver, Assistant Director of Health Services, and Armando Martinez, Emergency Management Coordinator As wildfire season approaches, know the symptoms of exposure, where to get help PORTLAND, Ore. -- As wildfire season fast approaches, Oregon Health Authority (OHA) encourages people to take steps to protect themselves against wildfire smoke, especially those at higher risk of negative health effects from exposure. Smoke from wildfires can travel hundreds or thousands of miles, affecting air quality and creating health hazards for people in Oregon, said OHA Public Health Director Rachael Banks. Some communities are especially vulnerable to effects of wildfire smoke. “Families living with low income and who struggle with access to health care and resources may also feel worse effects of wildfire smoke in their neighborhoods,” Banks said. “Listening out for local warnings and reports while taking protective measures can help reduce those effects for everyone.” Groups sensitive to wildfire smoke also include people with breathing or heart conditions, older adults, infants and children, and people who are pregnant. Additionally, since people who work outdoors may have increased exposure to smoke, employers must follow key requirements from Oregon Occupational Safety and Health (OR-OSHA) to better protect their employees. Exposure to gases and particles in wildfire smoke may cause symptoms such as: • Watery or dry eyes • Persistent coughing, phlegm, wheezing, scratchy throat or irritated sinuses • Headaches • Shortness of breath, asthma attack or lung irritation • Irregular heartbeat, chest pain or fatigue • Heart attacks Smoke levels can change rapidly depending on fire behavior and weather conditions. With that in mind, checking current conditions on the Oregon Smoke Information Blog, viewing Oregon DEQ Air Quality Index or searching for and downloading the free OregonAIR app on the Apple App Store or Google Play store can keep communities up to date on alerts for their areas. It’s best to prepare early so you can take the following protective steps if reports show high smoke levels: • Stay indoors whenever possible. If you must go outdoors, consider using a respirator. • Follow a management and treatment plan for those living with chronic respiratory conditions, like asthma. • Keep track of medication supply, and refill prescriptions as early as possible. People living with asthma should call their health provider if their asthma gets worse or if they have concerns about their breathing plan. • Create a cleaner air space: • Keep windows and doors closed. • Avoid strenuous outdoor activity. • Use high efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters in indoor ventilation systems or portable air purifiers, if available. • Create a DIY Box fan filter if you are unable to get an air purifier. OHA has video guides on how to make one below: • English: https://youtu.be/ EUHVo54tXz0 • Spanish: https://youtu. be/3BxNS9KhzdE Many communities open cleaner air spaces during severe smoke events to help people unable to create a cleaner air space at home. In partnership with local officials and organizations, 211Info has a list of public cleaner air spaces. More information is available by: • Dialing 2-1-1 or 1-866-6986155 – both lines are available 24 hours a day. • Text the area zip code to 898211 (TXT211) – available M-F from 9 a.m.- 5 p.m. • Visiting https://www.211info. org/ Remember that cloth, dust and surgical masks do not protect against harmful particles in smoke. NIOSH-approved N95 and other respirators may offer protection, but they must be properly fitted and worn. Appropriate respirators are marked with the word “NIOSH” and “N”, “R” or “P” along with the number 95, 99, or 100. These may not work well for everyone. They are not made in children’s sizes, and some people with chronic conditions may find it more difficult to breathe while using them. Oregon OSHA has helpful videos to ensure the most protection possible from a respirator: • English: https://www.youtube. com/watch?v=ucmx_hj1SW8 • Spanish: https://www.youtube. com/watch?v=iNQCVKRK970 For more information on reducing exposure to wildfire smoke, including fact sheets and FAQs in multiple languages, visit OHA’s Wildfires and Smoke page. www.ctclusi.org July 2023 7 $500,000 for Air Quality Monitoring & Improvements to the Coos, Lower Umpqua and Siuslaw Indians Tribes The World June 18, 2023 Article pulled from https://theworldlink.com/ Oregon’s U.S. Senators Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden announced that the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is awarding $500,000 to the Confederated Tribes of Coos, Lower Umpqua and Siuslaw Indians (CTCLUSI) for air monitoring to improve public health. “One of the most important steps in protecting frontline communities from air pollution is actually monitoring their air so that we can see where there are problems and take steps to address them,” said Senator Merkley. “This funding for the CTCLUSI will help shine a light on problems that are getting in the way of clean air and give the community better tools to keep themselves safe from air pollutants.” “Preventing pollution in Oregon and nationwide requires accurate and reliable data to do the job effectively,” Wyden said. “I’m glad this federal investment will help the Confederated Tribes of Coos, Lower Umpqua and Siuslaw Indians achieve that goal so people in the region can breathe cleaner air and stay healthy.” This EPA funding will enable the community to deploy Purple Air monitors in the CTCLUSI five county service area, develop a dashboard and outreach materials illustrating relationships in air quality and heating sources, and conduct a needs assessment on critical air quality issues, followed by the development of action plans to implement recommendations arising from the assessment. Celebration at Mapleton High School Contributed by Enna Helms, Linguistic Associate A momentous gathering was held on May 24th at the Mapleton High School paying tribute to the ancestral lands of the sha’yuushtɬ’a people, embracing the vital importance of first foods and language revitalization, and celebrating an exhibit of student-created art and projects! We express our gratitude to all those who contributed to the day and those who worked tirelessly behind the scenes to make this occasion one to remember (and hopefully to continue as an annual community event!). Meaningful Salmon Bake and Community Sharing We shared the day with a traditional salmon bake and gathering in the field surrounded by the Mapleton School District staff, teachers, students, tribal staff and members of the Confederated Tribes of Coos, Lower Umpqua and Siuslaw Indians. Reviving the sha’yuushtɬ’a language The Mapleton school district worked together with the Tribes Language Department and obtained a small grant to honor the sha’yuushtɬ’a wa’as (Siuslaw language) with a focus on a school labeling project for highschool, middle and elementary schools. The labeling project at the schools are accompanied by QR codes with the sound charts and labeling of items within the language and arts rooms, and even a coffee shop! This has fostered those early language learning connections and will ensure the survival of our rich cultural heritage! The Tribal Flag hung up in the school gym Another moment during the event was the placement of our Tribal flag in the Mapleton High school. To see our flag put up at the school brings an alertness to the students and recognizes the historical and cultural presence of our Tribe. Further, it serves as a commitment of the community to learn, embrace and respect the indigenous people and heritage of this place and the people who live here. Student Exhibit Students shared their art, poetry, music and projects in an exhibit with support of school staff. It was a pleasant experience and we thank all of the students for their time and commitment to the arts and their projects, many of which gave honor to the Tribe and the trail of tears. Again, we humbly send our gratitude to all those involved in conceptualizing this beautiful day and will be remembered and hope to see it happen next year! 8 July 2023 THE VOICE OF CLUSI Constitutional Amendment Process Continues to Move Forward Tribal Council continues to address and review amendments of the CTCLUSI Constitution. A complete draft will be sent to every household the first week of July for your review, consideration and to provide additional input. This draft will contain the suggested language to present to the BIA from information gathered from Tribal membership throughout the survey and public meeting process and from recommendations of the Tribes Legal Counsel. After membership receives and reviews the information sent to every household, Council will hold an additional virtual Public Meeting (via Zoom; link will be provided on the home page of the Tribes website prior to meeting time) on Tuesday July 18, 2023 from 5:00 pm to 7:00pm To allow membership to again provide input. Reminder to everyone; once the draft amendment document is complete it will be sent to the BIA and a Secretarial Election will be called. The process for this election to amend the Constitution will be handled solely by the BIA, not the Tribe or our Election Board. All CTCLUSI enrolled members will have an opportunity to participate in this election process and vote for various proposed amendments. All members eighteen(18) years of age and older and will be sent ‘registration” from the BIA to allow participation. Be sure our Enrollment Department has all of your family members correct mailing addresses NOW so you wont miss any important correspondence for the Tribe or the BIA about this matter. The Tribe will continue to provide information and updates as we continue to move this process forward. If you have any questions please contact Jeannie McNeil at 541-888-9577 or jmcneil@ ctclusi.org Save the Date: Constitutional Amendment Virtual Public Meeting July 18, 2023 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. zoom link will be provided at www.ctclusi.org tamaɬis nishchima'muu Exhibition A respectful showing of time honored materials that symbolize our ceremony and traditions. OPENING DAY: SALMON CEREMONY SUNDAY AUGUST 6TH 2023 TRIBAL HALL, COOS BAY L A G̣ A U W I I Y A T ’ A S G A L L E R Y The tamaɬis nishchima’muu Exhibition Need Assistance Accessing the Citizen Portal on the Tribal Website? Contact Morgan Gaines, Communications Specialist at mgaines@ctclusi.org or call 541-888-7536 The tamaɬis nishchima’muu Exhibition is an upcoming event that is set to showcase time-honored materials that hold significant meaning to our culture and traditions. This exhibition is a respectful display of the beauty and importance of our heritage as the Confederated Tribes of Coos, Lower Umpqua, and Siuslaw Indians, and it promises to be a memorable experience for all who attend. The exhibition will take place at the Lagauwiiyat’as Gallery, located inside ̣ Tribal Hall in Coos Bay, and will open the same day as Salmon Ceremony on Sunday, August 6th, 2023. The event will be a cultural celebration of our heritage, a vital and bottomless resource that has sustained our people for generations. We invite all members of our community to attend this special event and witness the beauty and reverence of our culture and traditions. This Exhibition is an opportunity to learn, appreciate, and celebrate the legacy of our ancestors, and we look forward to sharing this experience with you. The Curations Team is soliciting any interested Tribal citizens and CTCLUSI people for temporary loan of their precious regalia for this exhibition. The regalia would be made accessible for your use during the coinciding ceremony that will be held on opening day of the exhibit. We would also greatly welcome any photographs of you or your family wearing your regalia that might be displayed in the exhibit, too! For more information about the exhibit or loaning regalia, please get in touch with the Curations Team at thpo@ctclusi.org. July 2023 www.ctclusi.org 9 Legislative Commission on Indian Services Annual Spring Nine Tribes Meeting Contributed by Julie Siestreem, CTCLUSI Tribal Council Legislative Commission on Indian Services Annual Spring Nine Tribes Meeting was attended by CTCLUSI LCIS Representative Julie Siestreem Tribal Council Position #3, Doug Barrett Vice Chair Tribal Council and Jesse Beers Cultural Stewardship Manager at the Oregon State Capitol Building and grounds May 17 and 18, 2023. Of the ten different content areas discussed over the two days the Broadband and Tribal Religious Freedom Department comments/concerns were the most impactful. One tribe shared whoever had been contracted to put in broadband for them had been desecrating burial grounds. Another tribe spoke of the great number of unaddressed religious ceremony requests not fulfilled by their incarcerated population. Julie Siestreem said a prayer of thanks to our creator for all the good work we had enabled us all to do this year and, asked for continued support and guidance in the coming year. Julie introduced Vice Chair Doug Barrett and, Cultural Steward Jesse Beers who gave testimonies highlighting the mental, physical, and spiritual significance of the positive impact the Canoe Journey has for our tribes as well as deep cultural educational services it offers all Pictured left to right: Aimee Kotek, Governor Tina Kotek, Vice Chair Doug Barrett, of us. Informal discussions with Governor Kotek and the and Council member Julie Siestreem first lady in their Mahonia Hall home were encouraging overall. Before everyone left for the evening, Julie asked Governor Kotek, if Vice Chair Doug Barrett and Grand Ronde Councilman Jon George could say a prayer and do some drumming to bless all Nine Tribes. Governor Kotek said she would be honored. Cultural Stewardship Manager Jesse Beers shares the mental, physical and spiritual significance of Canoe Journey Governor Tina Kotek pictured above wearing a cedar canoe hat. Grand Ronde Councilman Jon George and CTCLUSI Vice Chair Doug Barrett stand with drums 10 THE VOICE OF CLUSI July 2023 Student Recognition Celebration 2023 Contributed by Morgan Gaines, Communications Specialist The Education Department hosted a Tribal Student Recognition Luncheon on Saturday, June 17th at the Community Center in Coos Bay, Oregon. Guests were greeted with smiles as they signed in and visited amongst one another. The room was decorated for the occasion with beautiful center pieces of native plant bouquets at each table put together by a local florist at the request of Education Committee member Ashley Russell. A remarkable blue ombre balloon archway was the focal point at the head of the room. The archway was created by the talented Emily RodleyBarton and was the perfect backdrop for the display of gifts for students that surrounded it and for photo opportunities throughout the day. Opening the events, Education Director All students in attendance were called by grade level to be honored and gifted Jemiah Wasson welcomed guests and introduced Education Specialist II Brandy Lauby as the newest member of the the students over zoom shared, “my advice for Education Department. Wasson expressed as she was traveling for a you today…surround “Your presence here today is a testament work conference. Wasson yourself with people who to your unwavering support and devotion introduced are farther down the path Education to our students. From the bottom of my Committee than you are…make sure members heart, thank you for being here.” you become a person that Michelle Brix and Wendy Vice-Chairman Doug Barrett then Williford-Garcia to join him cannot only help someone addressed attendees and did an opening and Lauby in handing out in their time of need but a invocation for the event and the meal. the gifts to honor Tribal person that someone else Elders were asked to make their way students. can look up to.” through the buffet line first. A delicious Every student in Following Reeves, barbeque catered lunch was served from attendance at the luncheon Alhana McNutt made an Wildflour Catering of North Bend, Oregon. received a gift bag filled impassioned address Ribs and pulled pork, along side sides of with goodies ranging from to attendees about her fluffy corn bread and creamy macaroni and books to stuffed sea animal experience as a Tribal cheese were enjoyed by all. Both smoked toys for the younger groups. woman and student. She and traditionally prepared cedar stake fire Preschool and kindergarten spoke about the difficulties roasted salmon fillets had been prepared through 2nd grade were of navigating a system that in honor of the students by Jesse Beers honored first. The next was not design with the Alhana McNutt and Mark Petrie. Attendees were asked to group were 3rd grade indigenous ways in mind. gather any bones or uneaten portions of through 6th, then grades 7th Through perseverance we salmon to be returned to the waters after & 8th, and finally those graduating from 9th can become so much more than what they the meal. through 11th grade. think we are. After sharing in the Next on the schedule It is truly so wonderful to hear our Tribal meal together, Wasson were the introductions of students journeys and experiences. Thank introduced and welcomed two special guest speakers, you for your inspirational thoughts. the attendees who joined Ashton Reeves and Alhana Highschool graduates and GED recipients the celebration over the McNutt. Wasson welcomed where then honored, receiving gifts and zoom link posted to the Reeves to the front and he honors, followed by college students still Tribal website. “Due to a addressed the group, “Dai attending college and continuing to further previously arranged family sla, that is Hanis Coos, and their degree next year. All students, once commitment I unfortunately means hello all you cousins honored, where asked to share their cannot attend in person…” and friends. My name is name, grade they would be attending the shared Tribal Council and Ashton Cody Reeves and I following year, or their future plans for Education Committee am a descendant of Anna higher education or career starts. member Julie Siestreem Sprague…” Reeves shared College graduates were asked to come in a statement read by an inspirational speech forward for honors. Beautifully woven cedar Wasson. “Congratulations about his journey home, caps were made by Tribal Elder Brenda to all students Pre-K back to his roots, his tribal Brainard. Special abalone shell details through Higher Ed for community and traditions. adorned the edges. Tribal member Jessica completing this 2022-2023 “Today is a very special day Olson had beaded around eagle feather school year with all the for me because it is the first quills for the graduates. She carefully Ashton Reeves honors you earned! Today time I get to be amongst cleaned each feather before wrapping is your day for us all to my people, my Tribe. If it wasn’t for higher their quills in leather and beading around celebrate you…each and every one of you education and a very strong support them with a beautiful classic feather peyote give us hope our future is bright!” system, I wouldn’t be standing here before stitched design. Graduates who wanted to Education Committee member Ashley you today.” walk in at their University ceremonies with Russell also shared a few words with Nearing the end of his address he a cedar cap were encouraged to reach out July 2023 www.ctclusi.org Student Recognition Celebration 2023 to the Education Department to receive one. The family of James Barton accepted his blanket and beaded eagle feather on his behalf as they attended the event. Blankets and feathers will be mailed to other college graduates who were unable to attend in person. Finally, student scholarships awards were announced. Before reading off the award recipients Wasson shared, “Thank you to the Education Committee for making the following determinations. Ashley Russell is a returning student and recused herself from the process…Thank you to the Williford Family for a recent donation in honor of Tribal Elder Wanda Williford in the amount of $10,000 to the Elders Scholarship Fund. It is really appreciated.” To round out the evening, raffle prizes were drawn for all of those in attendance in person and on Zoom. A brief word of congratulations and thanks to those in attendance from Chairman Brad Kneaper was followed by a few honoring songs led by Jesse Beers and Mark Petrie. Thank you to all of those able to join us for this event honoring the hard work and dedication of our Tribal students and Graduates. Thank you to all those that worked tirelessly to put the event together and to those who continue to support our youth and students growing and learning always. Hiis haiyach (with a good heart). Cedar stake cooked salmon 11 Congratulations to all of our Scholarship Award Recipients Grace Brainard Scholarship in the amount of $500 was awarded to Melinda Sprague Carolyn Slyter Scholarship in the amount of $1500 was awarded to Ashley Russell and Levi Bradley MITSIS Scholarship in the amount of $300 • Journey Baldwin • Ben Blount • Levi Bradley • Tennepah Brainard • Tyler Brainard • Alexander Brainard • Clayton Branco • Carly Hudson • Griffin Kilbourne • Sydnie Kimura • Grace McNutt • Alhana McNutt • Alyssa McNutt • Amanda Murphy • Reece Slyter • Melinda Sprague • Abbie Wright ELDERS Scholarship in the amount of $500 • Jorney Baldwin • Ben Blount • Levi Bradley • Tennepah Brainard • Tyler Brainard • Clayton Branco • Carly Hudson • Griffin Kilbourne • Sydnie Kimura • Grace McNutt • Alhana McNutt • Alyssa McNutt • Amanda Murphy • Ryan Sallinger • Melinda Sprague • Reece Slyter • Abbie Wright PEPSI Scholarship in the amount of $1,000 • Jorney Baldwin • Ben Blount • Levi Bradley • Tennepah Brainard • Tyle Brainard • Alexander Brainard • Clayton Branco • Carly Hudson • Griffin Kilbourne • Sydnie Kimura • Grace McNutt • Alhana McNutt • Alyssa McNutt • Jaid McNutt • Amanda Murphy • Erica Pearson • Ashley Russell • Ryan Sallinger • Reece Slyter • Melinda Sprague • Abbie Wright Tribal Government Scholarship in the amount of $1500 • Ryan Andresen • Journey Baldwin • Ben Blount • Ellie Blount • Levi Bradley • Tennapah Brainard • Tyler Brainard • Clayton Branco • Cody Dauterman • Griffin Kilbourne • Sydnie Kimura • Michelle Lott • Alhana McNutt • Amanda Murphy • Erica Pearson • Mark Petrie • Ashton Reeves • Ashley Russell • Ryan Sallinger • Reece Slyter • Nicholas Smith • Melinda Sprague • Conner Tervort • Abbie Wright On behalf of Graduate James Barton, his family (brothers Joe and Jon alongside mother Jeannie) accepted his awards to gift to him. Vice Chair Doug Barrett provided an opening prayer and welcome Education Director Jemiah Wasson encouraged students to address the crowd and introduce themselves Shaunta Hemingway and Langston Brainard-Hemingway Beaded Eagle feathers made by Jessica Olson 12 July 2023 THE VOICE OF CLUSI Supreme Court Affirms ICWA June 15, 2023 Kolby KickingWoman, Indian Country Today Article reprinted from https://ictnews.org/news/supreme-court-affirms-icwa The Supreme Court handed down a major decision Thursday in the Haaland v. Brackeen case, affirming the constitutionality of the Indian Child Welfare Act by a 7-2 vote. Justices Clarence Thomas and Samuel Alito were the lone justices to dissent. The decision represents a major victory for federal Indian law and tribes across the nation. In the opinion, authored by Justice Amy Coney Barrett, said the court “declines to disturb the Fifth Circuit’s conclusion that ICWA is consistent with” Congress’s authority under the Constitution in Article I. “The United States, joined by several Indian Tribes, defends the law,” read the opinion. “But the bottom line is that we reject all of petitioners’ challenges to the statute, some on the merits and others for lack of standing.” Challengers cited that ICWA was against “federal authority, infringes state sovereignty, and discriminates on the basis of race.” Justice Neal Gorsuch, the justice with extensive federal Indian law knowledge and experience of all the justices, wrote in support: “Often, Native American Tribes have come to this Court seeking justice only to leave with bowed heads and empty hands. But that is not because this Court has no justice to offer them. Our Constitution reserves for the Tribes a place— an enduring place—in the structure of American life. It promises them sovereignty for as long as they wish to keep it. And it secures that promise by divesting States of authority over Indian affairs and by giving the federal government certain significant (but limited and enumerated) powers aimed at building a lasting peace. “In adopting the Indian Child Welfare Act, Congress exercised that lawful authority to secure the right of Indian parents to raise their families as they please; the right of Indian children to grow in their culture; and the right of Indian communities to resist fading into the twilight of history. All of that is in keeping with the Constitution’s original design.” President Joe Biden also weighed in shortly after the ruling was released. He said ICWA is a vital law he is proud to support and stands with tribes. The ruling keeps in place a vital law that protects tribal sovereignty and Native children, Biden said in a statement. “Our Nation’s painful history looms large over today’s decision. In the not-so-distant past, Native children were stolen from the arms of the people who loved them. They were sent to boarding schools or to be raised by non-Indian families—all with the aim of erasing who they are as Native people and tribal citizens,” the statement reads. “These were acts of unspeakable cruelty that affected generations of Native children and threatened the very survival of Tribal Nations. The Indian Child Welfare Act was our Nation’s promise: never again.” Interior Secretary Deb Haaland, Laguna Pueblo, called the decision “a welcome affirmation across Indian Country of what presidents and congressional majorities on both sides of the aisle have recognized for the past four decades.” “For nearly two centuries, federal policies promoted the forced removal of Indian children from their families and communities through boarding schools, foster care, and adoption. Those policies were a targeted attack on the existence of Tribes, and they inflicted trauma on children, families and communities that people continue to feel today.” Tribes, Native organizations, advocates and allies cheered for the decision reposting sentiments like “tribal sovereignty wins” or “ICWA stands!” Mary Kathryn Nagle, Cherokee, is a Native rights attorney and Counsel to the National Indigenous Women’s Resource Center for which she filed an amicus brief on behalf of in the case. She emphasized what the day means to Indian Country, “we just could not have gotten better news. This is an incredible, incredible victory.” “It’s definitely a day for Indian Country to celebrate,” Nagle told ICT. Like many, she was still reading through the 133 page opinion as the news broke Thursday morning. She noted that there will be a number of Native attorneys and federal Indian law lawyers who will comb through the court’s opinion. The first thing she said that jumped out at her was the overwhelming win for tribes. “Just the fact that we won on every single issue and Gibson Dunn (the law firm representing the petitioners’) is not taking home anything,” Nagle said. “They’re not winning on a 10th amendment issue. They’re not winning on Indian as a racebased classification. They’re not winning on anything is huge.” The Indian Child Welfare Act was enacted in 1978 and its purpose is “...to protect the best interest of Indian Children and to promote the stability and security of Indian tribes and families by the establishment of minimum Federal standards for the removal of Indian children and placement of such children in homes which will reflect the unique values of Indian culture…,” the Bureau of Indian Affairs website states. For years, ICWA has been long seen as the “gold standard” for child welfare policy. The Protect ICWA campaign, which includes the National Indian Child Welfare Association, the National Congress of American Indians, Native American Rights Fund and the Association of American Indian Affairs, said they are all “overcome with joy” that ICWA has been upheld. “One thing is certain: ICWA is crucial for the safety and well-being of Native children and families and the future of Native peoples and Tribal Nations,” the campaign said in a statement. “The positive impact of today’s decision will be felt across generations.” The campaign said they will give a deeper analysis Thursday afternoon after a legal review. The ruling is an affirmation of rule of law and the constitutional principles of the relationship between Congress and tribes, Cherokee Nation Principal Chief Chuck Hoskin, Jr., Morongo Band of Mission Indians Chairman Charles Martin, Oneida Nation Chairman Tehassi Hill and Quinault Indian Nation President Guy Capoeman said in a statement. They hope that this decision will slow the “political attacks” aimed at diminishing tribal sovereignty. “By ruling on the side of children’s health and safety, the U.S. constitution, and centuries of precedent, the justices have landed on the right side of history. With these latest political attacks on ICWA now behind us, we hope we can move forward on focusing on what is best for our children,” the statement says. In an April 2021 decision, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit upheld certain sections of ICWA and flagged constitutional concerns about others, prompting appeals on both sides. The U.S. Supreme Court granted petitions to review the Fifth Circuit’s decision and heard the case last November. Congressional members, 87 in total, filed a bipartisan, bicameral amicus brief defending ICWA’s constitutionality in Haaland v. Brackeen. Oral arguments on the landmark case took place in November. Indigenous people from around the country traveled to Washington, D.C., for the hearing. Kimberly Jump-CrazyBear, Osage and Oglala Lakota, was one of many who showed up to show support for the Indian Child Welfare Act. “I’m just here on behalf of all of you who can’t be here today. To help lend my voice,” she told ICT before the oral arguments for Haaland v. Brackeen began. “Without our children, we don’t have a people anymore.” www.ctclusi.org July 2023 13 Elders Corner What’s Up, Elders? Submitted by Kimmy Bixby, Community Health Aide Tribal Elder and Great Grandmother, Claudette Lum recently took a girl’s trip to Oahu, Hawaii for Mother’s Day with her 3 daughters and two nieces. They had a wonderful time meeting up with friends for dinner at places such as Paesano and Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck. During her stay, she kept busy with many activities, such as Pickleball, hiking Diamond Head, swimming in the hotel pool and in the ocean, and walking 5 miles a day! Oahu is the island Claudette loves to visit, as she has been there previously and visited other great places such as the Dole Plantation, where they serve the most delicious pineapple soft serve ice cream. Thank you for sharing your lovely trip with us, Claudette! SAVE THE New DATES Welcome CTCLUSI TRIBAL COMMUNITY CENTER 338 Wallace St, Coos Bay, OR 97420 THURSDAY, AUGUST 10, 2023 11:30 am - 1:00 pm RSVP BY TUESDAY, AUGUST 1, 2023 (541) 435-7155 or toll free 1 (888) 365-7155 There will be an Elders Committee Meeting at 1:00 pm following the luncheon. Tribal Elders: ELDER Bruce Byer – March ACTIVITIES Michael Lent – March Howard Barrett Sr – May GRAND RONDE ELDERS HONOR DAY Kenneth Brainard JULY 9-11, 2023 – June Please RSVP by June 15th ~ HELLGATE JETBOAT EXCURSION SEPTEMBER 6-8, 2023 Please RSVP by August 10th LIMITED TRANSPORTATION IS PROVIDED Confederated Tribes of Coos, Lower Umpqua & Siuslaw Indians Health Services Division Elders Activity Program Call Barbara Black @ 541-888-7520 to RSVP. Transportation is Provided. Space is limited. More details/agenda to come. 14 July 2023 THE VOICE OF CLUSI University of Oregon Graduate Jorney Baldwin-Chee Jorney is an enrolled member of the Confederated Tribes of Coos, Lower Umpqua and Siuslaw Indians majoring in family human, services and public relations. She is also a Pathway Oregon, Home Flight, Diversity Excellence , and Jewell Bell Scholar. During her time at U of O , Jorney has been a part of the Native American Student Union (NASU) And interned at the U of O’s Student Academy to Inspire Learning program and at the Vivian Olum Child Development Center. She has also worked at U of O Counseling Services as the student advisory board since her sophomore year. She Shared. “I fostered the most amazing relationships with other students while supporting my community’s mental health journeys.” In addition to her on campus involvement she is also a member of the Gamma Phi Beta sorority. For Jorney, the Many Nations Longhouse and being involved in the Native American and Indigenous Studies Academic Residential Community (NAIS ARC) were resources on campus that helped her build a strong community on campus and shaped her experience at the U of O. After graduation Jorney will attend the Strategic Communications Masters Program through U of O’s School of Journalism and Communicion to continue providing outreach services and programs related to mental health within the Native community. Jorney was awarded U of O’s Future Steward Award which covers tuition costs for this program. Jorney graduates from U of O this year 2022-2023 with double majors in Education, and Journalism and, a minor in Native Studies. Information and photo contributed by Julie Siestreem Grants Pass High School Graduate Abbie Wright Abbie graduated on June 2, 2023 from Grants Pass High School. She graduated with a 4.25 GPA. She applied to many scholarships. She was awarded two scholarships from high school. A $250 Scholarship from Project Youth + and a $500 Cooley Memorial Scholarship. In addition she received a scholarship from BYU- Idaho for $1,100 divided between the fall and winter term. Abbie has been accepted to and will attend BYU-Idaho this Fall. She is majoring in data science/statistics and minoring in nutrition. Abbie is the granddaughter of Randy Brainard and she was named after her great, great, great Grandma Abbiegail Elliott. We are so proud of Abbie, she has worked hard her Senior year not only with school, but she also participated in Track and Field all four years and has a part time job. We know she will succeed in anything she does. She is smart, kind, tough, strong willed and determined. We are excited to see her future unfold. Information and photos contributed by Shawna Wright (pictured above with daughter Abbie) PEACEGIVING Peacegiving is a traditional Restorative Justice option available to you for the resolution of conflict. All Peacegiving issues are confidential. Are you in trouble with the law? Are you suffering with drugs, alcohol or addiction? Are you ready to make a change? What does true Wellness look like for you? A life without drugs or alcohol is possible for you. Make the choice for a better life. Confidential Contact Tribal Wellness Court. Photo By: Jesse Beers For more information about Peacegiving, please visit the Peacegiving Website or contact the Peacegiving Coordinator at the address listed below. Peacegiving Coordinator 1245 Fulton Avenue Coos Bay, OR 97420 PHONE: (541) 888-1306 or (541) 888-1316 EMAIL: Peacegiving@ctclusi.org Website: https://ctclusi.org/tribalcourtpeacegiving (541) 888-1307 www.ctclusi.org July 2023 15 Young Native Women’s Leadership Academy Each year since 2010, young women 18-25 years old attend our Youth Academy that prepares the next generation of Native leaders by combining cultural values with modern tools and services. Spread across three days of challenging and inspiring leadership training, participants’ understandings of money, popular media, personal development, goal setting, leadership, tribal sovereignty, Indian law, networking, and self-expression are strengthened. Through debate and discussion with their peers under the guidance and instruction of honored elders and national experts in their fields, young women leave transformed, empowered, and prepared to make a positive difference in their communities. For so many Native communities today, our young people represent the majority. It has been reported that in the US, 65% of the Native population is under 25 years old. As we celebrate the accomplishments of our established leaders, we also take on the responsibility to prepare and support the next generation. The Young Native Women’s Leadership Academy is one way that Native Action Network is responding to this need. Academy participants represent a strong, diverse, and promising group of women who are ready to take their leadership journey to the next level. As a part of the program, young women will be introduced to our community and connect with those with the power and support to mentor these students as they pursue their goals. Together, we declare their power and define their future. Westin Seattle on September 13-15, 2023. Apply online at https://nativeactionnetwork.org/ youthacademy Program Eligibility *Applicant must self-identify as a womxn *Applicant must be between the ages of 18-25, as of September 13, 2023. *Applicant must be able to attend and fully participate in the Young Native Women’s Academy, September 13-15, 2023 at Westin Seattle. *Selected participants must arrange for their own travel to and from the program; all other costs associated, including food and lodging, will be covered. QUESTIONS? Email NAN Program Manager Alaina Capoeman-Davis at info@NativeActionNetwork.org. ATTENTION GRADUATES Congratulations on your accomplishment! Send your graduation photo and information to be featured in a future edition of The Voice of CLUSI Tribal paper. Email Morgan Gaines, Communications Specialist at mgaines@ctclusi.org New Beginnings for Tribal Students (NBTS) and the Confederated Tribes of Coos, Lower Umpqua and Siuslaw Indians (CTCLUSI) present OSU Indigenous Youth Summer Camp August 20-25, 2023 Hands-on FUN outdoor field trips to learn about ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND CAREERS. FOR QUESTIONS CONTACT: Designed for self-identifying Indigenous youth entering 9th – 12th grades in Oregon. CTCLUSI Jemiah Wassman or Jesse Beers (541) 888-9577 § Field trip activities to include freshwater snorkeling with wetsuits provided, team-building challenge course, Hatfield Marine Science Center, ethnobotany, traditional canoeing and much more. § Learn about going to college and OSU’S variety of environmental science programs and majors. § Visit the OSU student longhouse, Kaku-Ixt Mana Ina Haws. § How to get help with financial aid and scholarships. Bessie Joyce NBTS Program Manager bessiejoyce4@gmail.com (541) 743-6106 § One night camping at Cascadia County Park. Stay in the dorms at Oregon State University in Corvallis, Oregon. MORE INFORMATION and § FREE andhttps://ctclusi.org/newall meals and 24-hour supervision provided. REGISTRATION: § beginnings-for-tribal-students-nbts-osuindigenous-youth-summer-camp/ This camp is a partnership of CTCLUSI, OSU and SWOCC with support from a USDA New Beginnings for Tribal Students (NBTS). Co-sponsored by the OSU Department of Fisheries, Wildlife and Conservation Sciences, Oregon Sea Grant and the Calapooia Watershed Council. 16 July 2023 THE VOICE OF CLUSI CTCLUSI HOUSING: WHO ARE WE? Contributed by Jamie Meyers, Director of Housing CTCLUSI Housing Department staff is excited to assist our Tribal community with housing services. Please let me introduce our staff: Jamie Meyers, Director of Housing Kendra Silva, Housing Assistant Beth Hager, Housing Program Specialist Melanie Mateski, Housing Navigator Jeff Wegner, Housing Maintenance Worker II Nick J Mathew, Housing Maintenance Worker II We have multiple programs and resources available for low to moderate income Tribal Families including: Tribal Housing: This program includes our housing developments at Qaxas Heights, Qa’aich Development, as well as other properties located in the Coos Bay area. Rental Assistance: This program offers Tribal Families a subsized rent amount based on income where rent is paid directly to a private landlord. Student Rental assistance is offered to full time college students enrolled with CTCLUSI higher education program. Emergency Assistance including Homeless Prevention: This program is intended to assist Tribal Families who are homelss or facing homelessness. Down Payment Loan Assistance: This program grants eligible Tribal members up to $10,000 towards purchasing their first home. Home Repair: This program is intended to help Tribal families repair their owner-occupied home. Qualified homeowners may receive up to $10,000 to help make their home a decent, safe and healthy place to live. Our maintenance crew is an intrical part of our department that maintains our Tribal Housing properties. As a team, they perform routine maintenance, renovations, and emergency repairs on our Public Safety Alert Contributed by Dennita Antonellis-John, Public Health Improvement Coordinator The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration is warning the American public of a sharp increase in the trafficking of fentanyl mixed with xylazine. Xylazine, also known as “Tranq,” is a powerful sedative that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved for veterinary use. Xylazine and fentanyl drug mixtures place users at a higher risk of suffering fatal drug poisoning. Because xylazine is not an opioid, naloxone (Narcan) does not reverse its effects. Still, experts always recommend administering naloxone if someone might be suffering drug poisoning. People who inject drug mixtures containing xylazine also can develop severe wounds, including necrosis—the rotting of human tissue—that may lead to amputation. According to the CDC, 107,735 Americans died between August 2021 and August 2022 from drug poisonings, with 66 percent of those deaths involving synthetic opioids like fentanyl. The Sinaloa Cartel and Jalisco Cartel in Mexico, using chemicals largely sourced from China, are primarily responsible for the vast majority of the fentanyl that is being trafficked in communities across the United States. To learn more about xylazine, scan the QR code. Pictured left to right: Nick Mathew, Kendra Silva, Beth Hager, Melanie Mateski, Jamie Meyers and Jeff Wegner properties as well as any other projects that may be necessary for the needs of the Tribe. Each of our Housing programs offered have specific eligiblity requirements that we are available to discuss in more detail. If you are not eligible for one of our programs, we can refer you to other resources within the community that may be beneficial to your situation. For more information or if you have any questions please call us at 541-888-1310. Tribal Housing Welcomes Newest Staff Member: Kendra Silva Hi my name is Kendra Silva. I was born and raised in Klamath Falls, Oregon. I moved to Coquille while I was a sophomore in high school and then moved to Coos Bay shortly after I graduated to continue my education at Southwestern Oregon Community College. In my free time you’ll find me out with my fiancé at the dunes, down a dirt road, or along one of the many beautiful trails we have in the area. I have three beautiful children who motivate me and inspire me to help make our world better. I’m very excited to be working in the housing department, making a difference in the lives of our tribal members and others we assist here in the housing department. Notice from CTCLUSI Transportation Department Do you live in Coos Bay/North Bend? Are you interested in going to the Farmers Market on Wednesdays? Reference: 1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2023, May 4). What you should know about xylazine. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/ drugoverdose/deaths/other-drugs/xylazine/faq.html 2. United States Drug Enforcement Administration. DEA Reports Widespread Threat of Fentanyl Mixed with Xylazine | DEA.gov. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.dea.gov/alert/ Reference: dea-reports-widespread-threat-fentanyl-mixed-xylazine 1. 2. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2023, May 4). What you should know about xylazine. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/drugoverdose/deaths/otherdrugs/xylazine/faq.html United States Drug Enforcement Administration. DEA Reports Widespread Threat of Fentanyl Mixed with Xylazine | DEA.gov. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.dea.gov/alert/dea-reports-widespread-threat-fentanyl- Get a hold of Kathy Perkins Call or text 541-808-8282 Email kperkins@ctclusi.org www.ctclusi.org July 2023 17 YOU ARE INVITED TO PARTICIPATE IN A LIFE CHANGING TRADITION Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program Summer is almost Here! The Coos, Lower Umpqua, & Siuslaw Indians Social Services Department con�nues offering Hea�ng or Cooling assistance for qualifying low income households. To receive assistance contact the Health and Human Services Division or fill out an applica�on on the CTCLUSI website at h�ps://laserfiche.ctclusi.org/Forms/LIHEAP. Households do not need to reside within the Tribe’s five county service area to be eligible; however, eligible households must reside within the State of Oregon to qualify. To qualify, your household gross income needs to be at or below the following income limits: 1 Person Family $31,266 2 Person Family $40,886 3 Person Family $50,506 4 Person Family $60,126 5 Person Family $69,747 6 Person Family $79,367 CANOE JOURNEY 2023 In order for your applica�on to be processed and determine qualifica�on you must provide: Proof of Income (Pay Stub) Social Security Card Copy of your u�lity bill SSI or SSDI Statement of Benefits Tribal Enrollment Card Child Support Statement Oregon Trail Card Current Oregon Health Plan Card No appointment is necessary as Tribal Households can fill out the applica�on online at h�ps:// laserfiche.ctclusi.org/Forms/LIHEAP . If you have any ques�ons please contact Carol Ann Young at 541-435-7159 . Vice Chair Doug Barrett will be leaving July 24th, anyone interested is invited to join at any time they can. Contact for more information. The Landing Day in Muckleshoot is July 30th, Protocol to follow. dbarrett@ctclusi.org or at 541-297-2130 Three Rivers Casino Resort Celebrates Grand Opening of New Blue Bills What a great day! Thank you everyone for being here in support of our grand opening for the new Blue Bills. The artwork we had reproduced from the Siuslaw Pioneer Museum turned out great and will help continue to educated folks on the history of Florence. And a big Thank You to everyone at the Museum for working with us on this project. Rich Colton, Director of Marketing 18 July 2023 THE VOICE OF CLUSI Confederated Tribes of Coos, Lower Umpqua and Siuslaw Indians Department of Human Resources Current Openings as of 6/21/2023 Tribal Government Offices Job Opportunities • Chief Dental Officer – Coos Bay • Community Information Manager – Coos Bay • Cultural Resources Protection Specialist – Coos Bay • Dental Hygienist – Part-Time – Coos Bay • Dental Assistant I. – Coos Bay • Forester – Coos Bay • Gaming Inspector – Florence • Higher Education Specialist – Coos Bay • Internal Audit Supervisor – Coos Bay • Surveillance Agent I. – Graveyard shift – Florence • Special Events – On Call – Varies on assignment Tribal Owned BUSINESS Are you a CTCLUSI Tribal member who owns their own business? Do you have licensing or accreditation? Are you a licensed contractor? Do you provided a business service? CTCLUSI is looking to put together a list of all Tribal member owned businesses or services. Contact us today to add your information to a list of Tribal Business. Please visit Job Opportunities on the Tribes website for full job descriptions and benefits available. You may also apply for any position online. http://ctclusi.org/jobs Contact Jeannie McNeil 541-888-9577 jmcneil@ctclusi.org Updated Frequently www.ctclusi.org Please email questions to recruitment@ctclusihr.org Looking for Awesome Team Members Special Events Employees Wanted Potential Events that need workers Culture Camp Spring Break Camp Restoration Salmon Ceremony Harvest Party Halloween Party Easter Egg Hunt and MORE. Must be a CTCLUSI Tribal Member; a Spouse of a CTCLUSI Tribal Member; Child in CTCLUSI families (whether child is a registered CTCLUSI Tribal or not); Part-Time Employee; Spouse of Employee; Child of Employee; OR have close economic ties to our tribal membership or employees at the discretion of the Chief Executive Officer, and/or the Director of Human Resources. On CTCLUSI Website Link: https://ctclusi-int.atsondemand.com/index.cfm? fuseaction=512409.viewjobdetail&CID=512409&JID=8 45537 Why RSVP For Tribal Events? Tribal Department staff who plan events and activities for the benefit of Tribal Member need membership to “please reply” when asked to RSVP when wanting to attend Tribal events. This ensures the right amount of supplies and food and beverages to meet the needs of those in attendance. Thank you in advance for making future events as successful as possible by always calling to RSVP when asked. RSVP for events by calling 1-541-435-7155 www.ctclusi.org July 2023 19 Upcoming Events July 2023 SUNDAY 25 MONDAY TUESDAY 26 WEDNESDAY 27 28 THURSDAY 29 FRIDAY 30 SATURDAY 1 Youth Unity Conference, Washington D.C. Independence Day 2 Independence Day 3 Tribal Offices Closed 4 Tribal Offices Closed 5 Youth Unity Conference, Washington D.C. 9 10 7 8 14 15 Seeds for Success Programm 12 Grand Ronde Elders Honors Day Regular Council Meeting 10:00 a.m. 16 11 6 13 Culture Camp - Mapleton, Oregon 17 Constitutional 18Amendment Public 19 20 21 22 24 25 26 27 28 29 31 1 2 3 4 5 Meeting Zoom 5pm-7pm 23 Canoe Journey 30 Landing in Muckleshoot Business Council Meeting 6:00 p.m. Canoe Journey Protocol August 2023 SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY 30 Canoe Journey 31 1 2 3 Landing in Muckleshoot Ceremony 6 Salmon Gregory Point 4 SATURDAY Breakfast with Tribal 5 Council, Community Center 9:00 a.m. RSVP needed 1-541-435-7155 Canoe Journey Protocol 7 8 9 10 11 12 14 15 16 17 18 19 21 22 23 24 25 26 31 1 2 7 8 9 Parking at Coos Head 11:00 a.m. RSVP needed 1-541-435-7155 13 FRIDAY Elders Luncheon Community Center 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Regular Council Meeting 10:00 a.m. 20 OSU Indigenous Youth Summer Camp 27 28 29 30 Business Council Meeting 6:00 p.m. 3 4 5 6 20 July 2023 THE VOICE OF CLUSI keep MONDAYS 6PM-9PM TUESDAYS 7PM-9PM WEDNESDAYS 7PM-9PM 30 minutes PLUS $10 Free play Keep Fishin’ or Cut up to $1,000 or walk the plank. $50 Cash Hot Seats every Play Good Neighbor Prize for the whole bank. Drawings every hour to Bait and win up to $2,500! Receive one entry for Drawings every 30 minutes to win Receive one entry for every 50 same-day points earned. every 50 same-day points earned. RED, WHITE & BLUE JULY WEEKLY SPECIALS Now Open for Breakfast at 8am MONDAY - THURSDAY served f rom 11am-10pm MONDAY - CHEF’S SALAD $14 TUESDAY - CLASSIC MEATLOAF $14 WEDNESDAY - PUB STYLE COD SANDWICH $15 WIN UP TO $10,000 CASH Saturdays in July Drawings to play the game every hour from THURSDAY - SOUTHWEST FLANK STEAK $18 FRIDAY - SUNDAY served f rom 4pm-10pm FRIDAY - PRIME RIB $21 7PM - 9PM. One entry for every 100 same-day SATURDAY - SMOKIN’ CHARLIE $15 points earned. SUNDAY - CHEF’S CHOICE Open Daily Now Open for Breakfast at 8am FOURTH OF JULY SPECIAL TUESDAY, JULY 4 • Served f rom 11am-9pm FREEDOM DOG $15 COOS BAY 5 4 1 - 8 0 8 - 9 2 0 4 | T H R E E R I V E R S C A S I N O . CO M --- Source: Frix Law Library, https://www.frixlaw.com/law-library/documents/tribal%3Aconfederated_clusi%3A6552a82503fadaec. Public record. Not legal advice.