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to them. We were taken away from here, but our hearts were not. We want our ancestors to know we have been doing things the best we know how.” As it began to rain lightly, Mercier and other Tribal drummers closed with a song to honor their ancestors. “Ancestors, please help us,” he said. “We thank you for everything. We don’t forget your struggles. And today, we have come full circle.” Afterward, Jon A. George said a highlight of the morning was seeing everyone gathered at the waterfront. “We have …

Hernandez handed out certificates of appreciation and Tribal Council members shook employees’ hands and also dispensed occasional hugs. Tribal employees were treated to a catered lunch, which included prime rib, salmon, turkey, sage stuffing, mashed potatoes, fresh vegetables, green salad, pasta salad, fruit salad, rolls and several dessert options. Raffles were conducted throughout the event that included gift cards to Best Buy, Target, Walmart, Home Depot, Dutch Bros. and Cabelas, as well …

their best to make it part of their lifestyle. “The experiences I have undergone from living abroad have allowed me to learn about myself and the world,” she says. “Through curiosity and willingness to try new things, I have learned about different cultural surroundings, teaching me about people and real happiness. I have pushed myself to incredible limits that have made me a stronger and more self-aware individual. Every day I feel more complete and in tune with my potential. I thank the Tribe …

cleaning every day. Prior to the close, we were doing this every hour.” Dillon said that despite the closure, some construction activities were continuing, with social distancing rules in place. These include the remodel of Spirit Mountain Lodge and a sportsbook betting area, new restrooms and the planning of a recreational vehicle park. “How long our casino will remain closed is a tough question,” Dillon said. “We will meet with our board and Tribal Council and discuss what is best to do. We …

frequent wiping down of slot machines, refillable sanitizer stands “everywhere” and the closing of the casino in the early morning hours for a thorough cleaning. Tribal Attorney Rob Greene said the general managers of Oregon Tribal casinos also are developing best practices in preparation to open. “The Oregon Tribal Gaming Alliance will be an avenue that people will hear from on regarding how we are opening in a safe and appropriate manner,” he said. Tribal Chairwoman Cheryle A. Kennedy said …

Coordinator Jim Holmes was one of a handful of employees whose work dictated that they mostly remain on site rather than work remotely during the partial closure that began in mid-March. “I’m excited to see a lot of my co-workers back and I hope that functions like the employee recognition celebration can (still) find a way to honor the many years of service that people have put in,” he said. Holmes said he was happy to see the gym available once again for employee use. “I’ve been doing my best …

Matter leaders and continue this conversation. Right now we’re coordinating a group of 10 or so people to reach out in different ways and see how we can best help. We’re hoping to continue to have a weekly talking circle and figure out our next steps.” So far, four key ideas include uplifting the voice of Black Lives Matter and Black leaders, continuing to highlight their message, create talking points for discussing this support with others, and checking in frequently with BLM leaders to help …

and sports writing in 2016 and best feature story in 2017. Merrill was born on Dec. 31, 1960 in Dallas, Ore., the son of Tribal Elder Donna Stronach (Bean) and Warren Merrill, and the grandson of Fremond Bean. He was descended from Tribal leader Chief Joseph Sangretta and was proud of his Northern Paiute and Kalapuyan roots. He was raised in Oregon and spent his entire life living and working in the Pacific Northwest. He attended Marist High School in Eugene and received a GED, and then attended Western …

before COVID-19 was being able to walk through the halls of Congress. “It feels like you are a part of something bigger and exciting,” she said. Post pandemic, the best experience was the care and concern shown to her by other congressional staff members. “That was really helpful for me to be able to push through what was happening,” Wright said. Wright has begun a new position as policy analyst for the National Congress of American Indians, a position she secured after working …

said. “We’ve had up to 116 Tribal members out working on different construction projects and this training gives them more marketable skills.” Tribal member Lisa Leno was all smiles after spending time operating the loader. “I like it,” Leno said. “It’s fun and I think it’s the best part of the training. Using the simulator helped me get the foundation of how to operate it. I felt pretty confident I could do this after using it.” Leno said she enjoys being outdoors and has worked as a landscaper …