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skills to help restore balance. (Photos by Timothy J. Gonzalez/Smoke Signals) By Danielle Frost Smoke Signals staff writer Remember the past, focus on the present and plan for the future was the message of the three-day Gathering of Grand Ronde Tilixam held Tuesday, May 21, through Thursday, May 23. In its second year, the event sought to give participants an opportunity to connect and learn how to best care for the community by discussing historical and intergenerational trauma, wisdom, culture …

overthink it. Today is a day to honor what veterans did and it’s also a day to remember those made the ultimate sacrifice, and those who continue to battle back home after serving our great nation.” Blasi, a 14-year Navy veteran, said she is always struck by the powerful emotions Memorial Day invokes. “Today we honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice,” she said. “It is this holiday that speaks most keenly to our highest and best ideals.” Director of Statewide Veterans Services Sheronne Blasi …

services, it’s something that is being considered. “It takes lots of planning to see what we need to do to best serve our people,” says Executive Director of Health Services Kelly Rowe. “Right now, we do screenings for signs of depression fairly regularly. This (crisis services) is something that is on the radar, something that we know we need to have.” Indian Country often has its own risk factors with suicide when compared to the population at large. Those communities with high suicide rates …

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 …