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About Siletz news / (Siletz, OR) 199?-current | View Entire Issue (Jan. 1, 2004)
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR To the editor: My name is Philip W. Rilatos, Sr. I am running for Tribal Council in the 2004 election. Many of you know me from serving on the Tribal Council on two previous occasions. I also served as the tribe’s general manager for over six years and as the Human Resources director for Chinook Winds for over three years. I have several issues that I will address in detail later in the voter’s pamphlet: economic development, affordable housing in Lincoln City, the housing land lease fee, and Tribal Council integrity. I believe that if elected, I would bring considerable experience to the Tribal Council: 6° years as the tribe’s general manager, Chinook Winds’ Human Resources director for 3° years, 4° years’ casino experience, two-time Tribal Council member, and I understand gaming and economic development. I have a bachelor’s degree and an associate’s degree in business management with over 40 years of management experience. I am asking for your support and vote in the 2004 elections. I know that one person on the Tribal Council can’t do much, but I assure you that I can make my voice heard. My word is my bond and I will always do what I say I will do. 1 pledge to you that if elected, I will always work to represent our people fairly and for the betterment of the tribe. If you know me, you know me to be open, honest, fair, and always tried to be helpful To the editor: I am Frank DePoe Aspria. It’s a new year and a time for a new beginning. With each day, it’s a new beginning and so is our future. It is not written and it is what we, as a tribe, make it. The present Tribal Council has done a great job, but it’s time for a new generation to lead and it’s time for equal and fair treatment for all tribal members. This has to be a priority first and most of all. Only with peace in our hearts for each other will we be able to be strong, as one solid, unbreakable tribe. Our tribe hires many non-natives. Why? Are we not smart enough? Or are we just too Indian? We can do it. We have the heart and determination to succeed. We don’t need to be in fear of losing our jobs because we speak out. Our casino is overstaffed at 900 employees and less than 10 percent of 4 □ Siletz News □ To the editor: Once again, I’m seeking re-election to the Tribal Council. I believe I have the experience, knowledge, and com mitment worthy of your vote to serve for another term. My experience in tribal affairs goes back to 1975 when I was elected to the Tribal Council. I served with those early leaders who began the tribe’s difficult struggle to be restored: Joe Lane, Art Bensell, Robert Rilatos, Pauline Ricks, Ed Ben, and Dolly Fisher, to name just Phil Rilatos, Sr. without regard for personal feelings. I do not let politics of personalities interfere with my ability to make sound decisions of providing assistance. 1 will always be available to you and will always listen and follow through with your concerns. You can contact me at 541-563-2739 or by fax at 541-563-6789. I know that some of my family and friends didn’t vote last year. Please take a little time and vote this year. Everyone should exercise their right to vote. Phil Rilatos, Sr. employees are Siletz Tribal members. In 1996-1999, the casino ran with 700 employees and was considered over staffed during those years. In 2000, we added a new general manager, a roulette table, a craps table, and 200 new employees. I’m sure you are asking yourself the same question as I am. Why? Why are so little tribal members in the casino? Why are the people not being represented by our elected officials? When, this last year our present Tribal Council all voted to have our Tribal Attorney Craig Dorsay represent Jim Kikumoto, Chinook Winds GM, against the Tribal Gaming Commission. Why? Vote for me and I will represent every one of you with Craig Dorsay. It’s only fair. Frank DePoe Aspria January 2004 a few. I’ve served as chairman, beginning in 1984, a responsibility that I graciously accepted and fulfilled. I’ve represented our tribe at federal, state, local, and inter-tribal levels. I’ve traveled extensively, lobbied, and worked hand- in-hand with other tribes on vital issues. I’m knowledgeable about tribal issues, enthusiastic, responsible, capable, and respectful of others. I’ve also gained the respect of other tribal leaders. Today, the Tribal Council must deal with severe federal budget cuts and rising costs. The council’s task is not only to secure adequate funding for our future, but also to protect our tribal rights and sovereignty. The threat is real; we must have the knowledge and ability to deal effectively with these critical issues. My involvement is not limited to tribal government affairs. I actively partic ipate in other tribal activities, such as pow-wows and cultural events. I’ve been open to discussion and criticism, and looked for positive ways to settle issues. My relationships with people, my management skills, and my commitment to the Siletz Tribe have been shaped by my background. I began my career after graduation, working for various insurance companies prior to working for the federal government. My employment with the Social Security Administration began in 1975 and I retired as an Operations supervisor after 24 years in 1998. During this period, I married Don Pigsley. We have three children: Tim, Troy (who is now deceased), and Quanna. We have seven grandchildren. I appreciate the support you have given me in the past and hope you can continue to give me the same support. Your responsibility as a member is to weigh who is best suited for council positions and to vote accordingly. Because our future is in many ways tied to federal, state, and local politics, it’s important that you also vote in all governmental elections, not just tribal. People who represent us in local, state, and national governments must be knowledgeable about tribal issues and whose views and actions are always in our best interest. Delores Pigsley Kitti Hostler, USDA director, stands next to a new 2004 Kenworth T300 refrigerated truck. She requested money though the U.S. Department of Agriculture and purchased the truck with capital funds. By replacing the old truck, the program is now saving about $789.72 per month. Additional information on this will appear in the February issue of Siletz News.
