February 2026 newsletter by tolowadeeni

DEE-NI' NUU-WEE-YA'

NAA-XEE NUM-NII~-MA~S (February) 2026 - Volume 33, Issue 2

Eight people recognized as Tribal Citizens

Tolowa Dee-ni' Nation Tribal Citizens on Saturday, Jan. 17, affirmed eight people for Tribal membership during the 2026 Mvn-'utlh-tee-dn (Petitioner's Election) at Deeni' 'Ee-ta Lhee-wii-dvn (Tribal Regional Justice Center) in Smith River.

Those recognized as Tribal Citizens were: Julie Davis, Daniel Fry, Michelle Malloroy, Denise McKenzie, Janie Mooney, Kelsy Padgette, Preslynn Shaw, Annette Taylor. Each person will be added to the official membership roll and their lineal descendants may apply for membership pursuant to established rules.

The Nation says shu' shaa nin-la (thank you) to the Tribal Citizens who voted in this election and the election board committee members and staff who worked hard to make it happen.

ABOVE: Election Board members Marva Siixuutesna Jones and Mattie Bommelyn assist Tribal Citizen Florinda Salcedo with casting her ballot.

LEFT: A line of voting booths await Tribal Citizen who decided to cast their ballots in person at the Tribal Regional Justice Center in Smith River.

Petitioner's Election by the numbers

The January 17, 2026, Petitioner's Election was administered by the Election Board in coordination with Automated Election Services.

At the start of the election cycle the Nation had 837 registered voters. In accordance with election procedures, all registered voters were mailed an absentee ballot on Nov. 3, 2025. All election Board members were present on election day to oversee the election process.

Voter registration rate:

Registered voters: 837 Ballots counted: 215

Voter participation rate: 25.7%

Voter demographics (counted ballots):

Female voters: 121 (57.1%)

Male voters: 91 (42.9%)

Voter participation by state: California, Oregon, Washington, Arizona, Nevada, Hawaii, Montana, Florida, Texas and Alaska.

Voter participation by city: The highest number of ballots were returned by the following cities (starting with the highest): Brookings, OR; Smith River, CA; Crescent City, CA; Eureka, CA; Medford, OR; Grants Pass, OR; and Redding, CA.

All Council: council@tolowa.gov

Chairperson, Debbie Boardman (707) 951-0966, dboardman@tolowa.gov

Vice Chair, Scott D. Sullivan (707) 954-6127, scott.sullivan@tolowa.gov

Secretary, Jeri Lynn Thompson (707) 951-3875, jeri.thompson@tolowa.gov

Treasurer, Jaytuk Steinruck (707) 954-5971, jaytuk.steinruck@tolowa.gov

Council Member, Dr. Joseph Giovannetti (707) 218-6569, joseph.giovannetti@tolowa.gov

Council Member, Amanda O’Connell (707) 954-5271, amanda.oconnell@tolowa.gov

Council Member, Dorothy Wait (707) 218-7346, dwait@tolowa.gov

Executive Director, Troy Ralstin (707) 487-9255, ext. 1220, troy.ralstin@tolowa.gov

Assistant Executive Director, Thomas Metz (707) 487-9255, ext. 1229, thomas.metz@tolowa.gov

Administrative Services Director, Emily Reed (707) 487-9255 , ext. 1182, emily.reed@tolowa.gov

Chief Financial Officer, Jose Tercilla (707) 487-9255, ext. 1115, jose.tercilla@tolowa.gov

CFW Director, Teela James (707) 487-9255, ext. 1139, teela.james@tolowa.gov

Community Development Director, Tim Hoone (707) 487-9255, ext. 1230, tim.hoone@tolowa.gov

Education Director, Sheryl Steinruck (707) 487-9255, ext. 1173, sheryl.steinruck@tolowa.gov

Enrollment & Elections, Angel Escobar 707-487-9255, ext. 1181, angel.escobar@tolowa.gov

Housing Manager, Jeri Robertson (707) 487-9255, ext. 1605, jeri.robertson@tolowa.gov

Human Resources Director, Jeff Davis (707) 487-9255, ext. 1213, jeff.davis@tolowa.gov

Public Safety Director, Tim Sanderson (707) 487-9255, ext. 1260, tim.sanderson@tolowa.gov

Natural Resources Director, Rachel McCain (707) 487-3233, rachel.mccain@tolowa.gov

Self-Governance Officer, Darrel Aubrey 707-487-9255, ext.1159, darrel.aubrey@tolowa.gov

Tribal Court Administrator, Elsie Petrie 707-487-9255, ext. 1162, elsie.petrie@tolowa.gov

Tribal Employment Rights Officer, Brian Millett (707) 487-9255, ext. 1222, brian.millett@tolowa.gov

Tribal Heritage Preservation Office, Cynthia Ford (707) 487-9255, ext. 1701, cynthia.ford@tolowa.gov

DAY MIN’-NE’

Naa-xee Num-nii~-ma~s (February) 2026 Tribal Government Newsletter published by the Tolowa Dee-ni' Nation, 12801 Mouth of Smith River Road, Smith River, CA 95567. Find our website at tolowa.gov. Articles do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the Tribal Council of the Tolowa Dee-ni' Nation or their staff. The Tribal Council of the Tolowa Dee-ni' Nation reserves the right to use their discretion in the information they publish. As per the Tribal Council of the Tolowa Dee-ni' Nation, no article shall be published or acknowledged in the tribal newsletter that does not promote and protect the best interests of the Nation. For information, contact Public Information Officer Scott Graves at scott.graves@tolowa.gov, call 707-487-9255.

The sun shines after days of rain on a winter afternoon at Dat-naa-svt Beach in Smith River.

Water conservation tips from TDN's Utilities Division

By conserving water at home and in our communities, we contribute to a collective effort to ensure sustainable water resources for everyone. Every drop counts—small changes can lead to significant impacts!

Water conservation at home

• Fix Leaks: Repair dripping faucets and leaking toilets to save thousands of gallons a year.

• Shorten Showers: Aim for 5-10 minute showers to significantly reduce water use.

• Install Water-Saving Fixtures: Use low-flow showers, faucets, and toilets for better efficiency.

• Turn Off the Tap: Don’t let water run while brushing your teeth or washing dishes.

• Collect Rainwater: Use rain barrels to collect water for gardening and outdoor cleaning.

• Water Plants Wisely: Water your garden early in the morning or late in the evening to minimize evaporation.

• Run Full Loads: Only run your dishwasher and washing machine with full loads to maximize water efficiency.

Unwanted Grease

When disposing of unwanted grease: Let it Cool: Allow grease to cool and solidify in the pan.

Container it: Pour the solidified grease into a container like an empty jar or can.

Trash It: Dispose of the container in your regular trash.

Composting: Vegetable oil can be composted, but check guidelines for your compost system.

Recycling: Some local services may accept used cooking oil for recycling. Check for nearby drop-off locations.

Available seat on Tribal Gaming Commission

Tribal and nonTribal citizens are encouraged to apply for the Nation’s Tribal Gaming Commission that oversees all Class II and Class III gaming activities on the Nation’s Indian lands in accordance with the gaming code.

Applications can be found on the website or at the Tribal Headquarters or send an email to recording.secretary@tolowa.com.

The three commissioner positions, appointed by the Tribal Council, consist of a chairperson, vice-chairperson and an associate commissioner. The commission

will generally meet formally at least once a month.

Candidates shall be at least 25 years of age and a U.S. citizen. Preference will be given to enrolled Tribal Citizens. Candidates shall be knowledgeable in areas of finance, accounting, management, legal, business, governmental regulation, Tribal policy, law, public administration, gaming operations, management and regulation.

Appointed candidates will be required to undergo an extensive background check and are subject to the Nation’s drug and alcohol policy.

Please note: No gaming commissioner candidates may be employed in the management of the Nation’s Gaming Facility or be an elected official of the Nation, nor be employed in the Gaming Operating, be a gaming contractor, or be directly related

to or sharing a residence with any of those mention above.

Goals of the Commission

• Implement appropriate rules, regulations, and procedures to ensure the effective enforcement of the provisions of the Tolowa Dee-ni’ Nation Gaming Ordinance.

• Prevent Illegal activity in the Gaming Facility or Gaming Operation through maintenance of employee procedures and a surveillance system in accordance with industry standards.

• Establishment of employee procedures to detect theft, cheating, and fraud.

• Protect Tribal Assets; ensure protection of the Environment and Public Health and Safety all Gaming Facilities shall be constructed, maintained and operated in a manner that adequately protects the environment's public health and safety.

Winter sunset at Dat-naa-svt Beach in Smith River.

Become a Tribal foster parent

Foster homes are desperately needed for Native American children in Del Norte and Curry County. The Tolowa Dee-ni' Nation is looking for Tribal Citizens willing to open their hearts and provide children with a secure, nurturing home. Native American children are disproportionally represented in the child welfare system, with approximately 2000 Native American foster homes in the United States. The Tolowa Dee-ni' Nation's Community and Family Wellness is hoping to provide long term, short term and emergency and/or respite care. This is just one of many ways to help a child have the safety and security they need.

Our services are open to Tribal Citizens in our five-county service area: Del Norte, Curry, Humboldt, Coos and Josephine counties. Learn more by contacting the Nation’s Community and Family Wellness Department at 707-487-9255. Or visit our office at 140 Rowdy Creek Road in Smith River.

Tribal families enjoy Grinchmas activity

There were big smiles, warm hearts and holiday cheer for Tribal Families during the December "Grinchmas" event at the Howonquet Hall Community Center in Smith River.

Hosted by Community and Family Wellness Department, the gathering included a Grinchmas feast, courtesy of Pancho's Restaurant, fun games, and a raffle with giveaway Christmas dinners to take home.

The highlight of the event was a screening of the movie "The Grinch Who Stole Christmas."

The Grinch himself was on hand, opening his arms to Whos of all sizes for photo opportunities and gift grabs from under the tree.

The Nation says Shu' shaa nin-la (thank you) to staff and our families for making it such a wonderful activity.

TAKE THE SURVEY

Access to healthy straa~ (food) is vital for the health of Taa-laa-wa Dee-ni'. Foraging in local rivers, mountains, and the ocean is an important part of life. However, pollutants and toxins are now unavoidable in today's world, even in the food harvested where we live. Mercury, pesticides, and many other harmful chemical compounds are commonly found in the food we eat.

The Nation has been collecting samples of traditional foods such as lat (seaweed), lhvmsr (smelt), dee-lhat (mussels), sa'-lhk'I (horse neck clams), met-'e (razor clams), lhuk (salmon), and t'ii~-sli~ (steelhead) for over 300 toxins. Many factors can influence health risks associated toxins present in our foods, including our age, underlying health issues, and serving size and frequency.

While we await the results from testing, we are reaching out to community members to ask for their help in making sure our foods are safe to eat. We have our survey posted on our TDN website (under the Environmental Division).

Scan the QR code or visit: surveymonkey. com/r/VMKTWJQ

Tribal employment opportunties

Tribal Office

• IT Systems Administrator I (Administration)- Full Time.

• Network Administrator (Administration)- Full Time.

• Home Visiting Program Coordinator (CFW)- Full Time.

• TANF Prevention Technician (CFW)- Full Time.

• Classroom Aide (On-Call) (Education)- On-Call.

• Head Start Teacher (Education)- Full Time.

• Tribal Resource Technician (Food Sovereignty) - FT.

• Tribal Corps Youth Crew Leader (TERO)- TEMP/FT.

• Internal Auditor/Compliance Officer (TGC)- Full Time.

Lucky 7 Casino

• Security Supervisor- FT.

• Security Officer- Full Time.

• Host/Server (2)- Part Time.

Please submit a completed application with your resume to the Human Resources Department. Job descriptions and applications are available at www.tolowa.gov/jobs. Contact Human Resources at 707-487-9255.

2025 Staff Recognition

Tolowa Dee-ni' Nation employee milestones and efforts were recognized during the January Quarterly All Staff meeting.

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

1. One year completed: Roman Worthey, Janine Hodson, Brittney Ford, Robert Ford, Roberto Aguilar and Kirstie Wright.

2. 5 years completed: Hannah Richards.

3. 10 years completed: Nieca Wright and Frank Ault.

4. 15 years completed: Cynthia Ford.

5. 20 years completed: Marvin Richards Jr.

6. Above and Beyond award: Monica Calvillo presents awards to Sarah Wentz, Krystal Woods, Maggie Wyckoff, Hannah Richards.

7. Employees of the month (June-December 2026): Jessica Richards, Maggie Wyckoff, Hannah Richards, Sarah Wentz,

8. Employee of the Year: Ridge

Michael Harling, Ridge McLennan (not pictured), Frank Ault.

McLennan.

Teen dating violence awareness

Throughout February, organizations nationwide are coming together to highlight the need to educate young people about dating violence, teach healthy relationship skills and prevent the devastating cycle of abuse. Teen dating violence, also known as intimate partner violence or intimate relationship violence, is a serious problem in the U.S., affecting approximately 10% of all teenagers between the age of 12 to 18. It includes stalking, harassment, physical or sexual abuse. According to the Center for Disease Control, teen dating violence has both serious short-term and long-term consequences. While healthy relationships tend to have a positive effect on emotional development and future relationships, abusive relationships often do the opposite. Dating violence victims are likely to experience suicidal thoughts, antisocial behaviors, depression and anxiety, and engage in unhealthy behaviors such as alcohol and drug use. For more information about teen dating violence prevention, contact the Community and Family Wellness Department at 707-487-9255.

Ridge Adams

Herbert Arlandson

Justus Arlandson

Jolynn Arlandson

Paula Aubrey

Frank Ault

Hattie Baines

Brandy Baker

Fred Bartow Jr.

Charles Batini

Rogen Baty

Alora Bergman

Brendan Berry

Lia Bessette

Emily Bimemiller

Aleah Bimemiller

Wade Bravo

Jeremy Bravo

Maegan Bravo

Shayla Bray

Claire Brown

Eric Brundin

Martha Brundin-Losh

Jacqueline Bruschi

Ayda Burshem

Christy Cadotte

Alexis Calderon

Raelee Campbell-Vawter

MAA~-XUSLH-GHALH

Diane Carr

Angel Castor

Anthony Chisman

Ezra Corona-Sells

Owen Costa

Qwynn Coulson

Austin Cox

Joseph Criteser

Heavenly Dizick

Michael Dobrec Sr.

Deanna Ellis

Cheylei Erkkila

Kayla Fillippa

Celeste Fillmore

Rose Fowlkes

Margaret Fralich

John Frantz

Josette Freeland

Brittani Fugate

Kate Gertsch

Nash Giola

Charles Gochanour Jr.

Dena Gorbet

Erika Gravatt

Doyle Green

Willow Haddad

Michael Halverson

Dustyn Hatter

Donna Haynes

Emma Haynes

Kyle Hinshaw

Edward Capoeman Lopez

Elaine Capoeman Lopez

Brent Hodges

Brandon Hodges

Darren Hodges

Adison Hodges

Frank Hostler II

Joseph Houston

Jenell Howell

Cove Howell

Jolene Hubbart

Ye'Wome'Y James

Nantsvn Jones-Scott

Michael Kennedy

Kaia Kennedy

Catherine Kimble

Joseph Lemley

Sandra Lewis

Holly Lopez

Alicia Lopez

Sela Lopez

Shenandoah Lopez

Shane Lopez-Johnston

Siena Lopez-Johnston

Sierra Losh

Ivan Manso Jr.

Jamie Maynard

Hollie McCallum

Charlotte McClung

Brady McConaghy

Zakary McCormack

Chella Mendoza

Sara Mitchell

Audrey Mogess

Heath Moon

Dylan Moorehead-O' Loughlin

Michael Murrell

Aaron Newton

Summer Norbury

Delilah Ochoa

Landon O'Reilley

Blake Owen

Luke Parry

Haleigh Pavola

Corey Payne

Meagan Payne

Elsie Petrie

Lexus Pittman

Virginia Porter

Shelly Reynolds

Lucy Reynolds

Michael Richards

Kolton Richards

Dian Richards

Nevarra Ridders

Ashley Romannose-Jones

Tricia Romo

Kelley Salcedo

Kehlani Salcedo

Donivin Salyer

Jenna Sanders

Kolbe Sanders-Myers

Angelina Sasser

Hallie Scaglione

Wesly Sells

Weston Sendit

William Sesher

David Smith

Harrison Smith

Aleena Solomon

Lisa Sopiwnik

Bobby Sossaman

Caleb Sossaman

Vicki Spargur

Robert Spargur

Kreek Starkey

Nadine Starritt

Kit-'Si Stowe

Katherine Swan

Leilani Thomas

Eloy Thomas-Mata

Maya Travis

Eva Upton

Melody Vance

Adam Vickers

Francisco Villegas-Lopez Jr.

Alia Vistalli-Alvarado

Dorothy Wait

Marilee Walker

Rowan Ward

Paul Warde Jr.

Nicole Weber

Colin Weeks

Nellie Westbury-Fox

Jonathan Wilber

Shelby Wilson

Lennox Wilson

Karie Wood

Hunter Woolery

Piper Wyatt

Emma Yingling

Isabella Younker

Aria Zeman

Gabriel Zorea

Tobacco cessation resources available

If you or someone you know is interested in becoming commercial tobacco-free or would like to learn more about cessation, specialized resources are available to support these goals!

United Indian Health Services provides culturally specific information and resources tailored for UIHS clients.

Quit Kits:

Culturally specific "quit kits" are available for clients at all UIHS sites.

Direct Support: To request a kit or speak with project staff, please contact UIHS at 707-825-5000.

Kick It California

For additional support, Kick It California offers an accessible, evidencebased program featuring free, customizable quit plans and progress trackers, and Clinically proven behavior change strategies.