FROM THE COUNCIL
The Tribal Council elections were held September 9, 1979 in Grand
Ronde. There was a large attendance for the elections. People came from
Coos bay, Myrtle Creek, Salem, Warm Springs and Nespelem and White Salmon,
Washington. We are very happy to see so many tribal members interested
enough in our endeavors to travel these long distances to attend our
General Meetings.
The interest and support of our Tribal members is needed to reach
our goals. Our major goal is Tribal re-ins tatement. The unity of our
Tribe is our strength, and through your voice in the meetings or your
written letters, the Council can take direction in future programs and
projects that best serve our Tribal needs.
This time of the year is the end of the fiscal year for C.E.T.A.
programs. We were funded through the Warm Springs via the Siletz Tribe,
the sub-grantee, for a five-month program beginning May 1, 1979 and end
ing September 30, 1979. Much research and enrollment up-dating has been
done in the past five months. Also, through the interest of our Tribal
members, a grade stake mill has been implemented and is providing needed
training to Tribal members as well as employment.
It is very important that Grand Ronde continue a Tribal office in
Grand Ronde since there has been one implemented for the last three years
through other agencies, the last five months through the Region X Indian
prime sponsor. Through our Tribal office interest and assistance we
have provided to our Tribal members services in the areas of education,
nutrition, transportation and employment training. Other important fac
tors are the strengthening of Tribal unity as well as regaining the cul
ture of the Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde through the operative
Tribal office and staff.
The funding for the ongoing program is somewhat sketchy at this
time as negotiations are in the process for the Fiscal Year '80. These
services cannot be and should not be denied to the Confederated Tribes
of Grand Ronde.
We thank those who have sent donations this past month toward the
land purchase. We look forward to receiving donations from more Tribal
members. Remember these donations are tax deductible.
Several permanent grave markers have been ordered and received. Our
Green Thumb worker is now busily mounting them on cement foundations.
The cost remains the same $10, and when you provide the name, birth
date, death date, and the cost of cement and plaque, we will provide the
labor. Remember, we all have family in our burial ground, so let's all
work together to keep improving our Cemetery.
We need your support, each individual Tribal member, in our endeavors
to reach our ultimate goal, Federal recognition.
Sincerely,
The Tribal Council
Chairman - Marv Kimsey Council Member - Dean Mercier
Co-Chairman - Darrel Mercier Council Member - Margaret Provost
Sec.-Treas. - Jackie Colton Council Member - Merle Holmes
QSuiSiiW5XSi8feJ