Image provided by: Oregon Historical Society; Portland, OR
About Spilyay tymoo. (Warm Springs, Or.) 1976-current | View Entire Issue (May 29, 1981)
Ken’s honor dinner happy, yet emotional event The pride, respect and admiration for Ken Smith was almost overwhelming at his Welcome Home and send-off dinner Saturday, May 9. Nearly 600 people jammed the Community Center gym to congratulate him and to wish him well in his new job as the Interior Department’s Assistant Secretary for Indian Affairs. His uncle, Alvis Smith, Sr. emceed the event. Special tribute was paid to Ken’s grandmother Annie Smith, 98, who raised him. Councilman Olney Patt, Sr. gave “honorable mention to Annie Smith who did a real good job teaching Ken the basics right at the home level.” She did a wonderful*job, he said. Rudy Clements noted in his statement that Wesley and Annie raised Ken is such a way as to instill those qualities that make Ken special to so many people. “He’s cool-headed, values good ideas, listens, respects different points of view — yet won’t be pushed around, and honesty. One of Ken’s rare qualities is that “he has always maintained respect among fellow workers, both professionally and personally,” said his sister, Rosella Phillips. Councilman Mike Clements said, “I have no more admiration for any man than Ken Smith. Ken has never stepped around any rules, and I respect him for that.” Many were moved to tears with pride and at the thought of Ken leaving for four years. Ken is only “on loan” — we still want him back, many stressed. Matilda Mitchell, with Sylvia Wallulatum translating, said, “We really love this young man. We have deep respect for him because he respects us.” “We sure hate to see him leave this reservation. We knew it was well taken care of when he was here,” she continued. Marie George, who made the trip from Snoqualmie, said she “remembers this young man when he was in school.” At that time she felt, “One day he’s going to be a smart man. I’m really proud of him. I know Annie and his mother are proud of him, too.” Tribal Council chairman Delbert Frank, Sr. asked, “How many people on other reservations feel this way about their managers?” He added, “Let’s not put Kenny up there then shoot him down. Let’s support him.” Delbert then presented Ken with a diamond-studded gold watch from the Council. It bears the inscription, “May the wisdom of our ancestors go with you -1981.” Ken s proud grandmother, Annie, honored him with a Wasco hymn that he remembered from childhood. His face lit up in surprise. Story and Photos by Sandy Rangila Wasco songs and dances provided a traditional Maggie Wewa offered warm, cheerful words and congratulations to touch. The Lord’s Prayer in top photo was Ken and his wife Jeannie during the special honor dinner. done in both Wasco and Warm Springs.
