Current Affairs
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WEBSITE UPDATE: Updated Information Now Available in "Archives" Section
The California Valley Miwok Tribe's "Timeline of Administrative Events" has been updated to the end of March, 2009.
IMPORTANT NOTICE: Tribal Office Contact Information Updated
04/14/09 - The Tribal Office business line, fax line and mailing address have been updated. Please review the updated information listed in the "Services" and "Tribal Government" sections of this website and adjust any previous records accordingly. Thank you!
California Valley Miwok Tribe Hosts March 2010 USDA Food Distribution
03/04/2010 - CVMT TRIBAL OFFICES, TRIBAL LAND, STOCKTON, CA -
The California Valley Miwok Tribe - located at 10601 Escondido Pl., Stockton, CA 95212 - hosted the USDA Food Distribution on Thursday March 4th, 2010. Due to previously scheduled obligations of the Tule River Food program staff, distribution was held early this month. All recipients were notified and although in dire need of their monthly disbursements, many asked that the Tribe hold their distribution till the weather allowed them to travel. By the weekend, all families serviced were able to acquire their distributions. The Tribe hopes that it will be able to initiate a program in the future that will be able to deliver directly to these needy families so that they will not be burdened by the weather or travel and are optimistic that this can be done in 2010. CVMT thanks all of you that continue to participate in this Tribal program, and to the Tule River Tribe, their food distribution staff and the USDA for making this program possible.
California Valley Miwok Tribe Meets with Caltrans District 10 Representatives
03/04/2010 - CVMT TRIBAL OFFICES, TRIBAL LAND, STOCKTON, CA -
The California Valley Miwok Tribe - located at 10601 Escondido Pl., Stockton, CA 95212 - hosted a Government-to-Government Consultation meeting on Thursday, March 4, 2010 between the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans Dist. 10) and the CVMT Tribal Cultural Preservation Department. In attendance representing their departments were Ross Chittenden, District 10 Director; Ken Baxter, District 10 Deputy Director; Kathleen McClaflin, District 10 Native American Liaison; Mary Oliva, District 10 Senior Environmental Planner; Silvia Burley, Chairperson of the California Valley Miwok Tribe and Debra Grimes, California Valley Miwok Tribe Cultural Preservation Director.
The meeting was scheduled to be able to better address mutual concerns and to build a better understanding on how to work more cohesively in the future. Existing projects and strengthening of the tribes’ involvement in future projects were the main topics of discussion. Everyone whom attended contributed greatly and much was accomplished. The Tribe is grateful that Caltrans District 10 is working to strengthen its relationship with the Tribes that reside within its district, and is prioritizing that endeavor with meetings such as this. The Tribe looks forward to working more closely with Caltrans in 2010 with the better understanding that meetings such as this have helped to create. We would like to thank all those (whom attended) for their time and expertise and to Caltrans for initiating this event.
Correspondence From President Barack Obama to the CVMT Chairperson Silvia Burley
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03/04/2010 - CVMT TRIBAL OFFICES, TRIBAL LAND, STOCKTON, CA -
The California Valley Miwok Tribe - located at 10601 Escondido Place, Stockton, CA, 95212 - greatly appreciated a hand-signed response addressed to our Chairperson, Silvia Burley, in regards to a special holiday poem penned by her to President of the United States Barack Obama, First Lady Michelle Obama and their family. The poem was of inspiration and hope. Chairperson Burley and the Tribe are happy that it was well received. The very fact that the president signed this response to our little, landless tribe is conclusive that he acknowledges the meek as well as the mighty and the Tribe is overwhelmed by the re-affirmation of our chairperson by the president and the White House and by the high regard that he has continually shown for her.
The Tribe thanks the President of the United States Barack Obama and the White House staff for the optimism that correspondence such as this instills.
California Valley Miwok Tribe Hosts February 2010 USDA Food Distribution
The California Valley Miwok Tribe had another successful installment of the USDA food distribution to all eligible participants currently receiving this service through the Tribe. The California Valley Miwok Tribe located at 10601 Escondido Pl., Stockton, CA 95212, its Tribal Council, Members and Chairperson Silvia Burley are grateful for the positive responses by all that benefit, and their gratitude for the receiving of these services.
The Tribe hopes to expand on this and other services this year, and due to ever-changing events that are having a positive affect how the tribe will be able to address additional concerns from its recognized membership, its Tri-Miwok partnership and the local Indian Community, it now feels it will be able to. In this latest installment not all recipients were on hand to receive their allotments, so the Tribe held their distributions and as of the writing of this article, all commodities have reached their prospective families. We, with the power in our Indian Communities need to work further in our communities to enrich, empower, strengthen and protect our Native American people and their identities.
We thank all those whom stay involved with us in this endeavor. We also thank the Tule River Tribe and the USDA for allowing us to make this program available. Also a special thank you to President of the United States Barack Obama for the indigenous stimulus funding that has allowed the Tule River Food Distribution staff to upgrade antiquated equipment so that there shall be no foreseeable equipment failures in the future that would disrupt the continuing delivery of these services.
First Distribution of the New Year
The California Valley Miwok Tribe held its first food distribution of the new year at its tribal offices, located at 10601 Escondido Place, Stockton, CA 95212. These are indeed troubled times for all Americans and especially American Indians. The California Valley Miwok Tribe understands this and is currently trying to acquire alternate programs to replace conventional ones that at this time are unavailable to the Tribe to help not only the Tri-Miwok Consortium members but the local Native American community.
This first installment of the new year's food distribution has made the Tribe aware of the many other deficiencies that need to be addressed. So in this coming year, the Tribe shall continue to network to bring to the Native peoples affected, additional services as the Tribe is able to acquire them. At this time, the California Valley Miwok Tribe would like to thank the entire food distribution staff of Tule River Tribe for working so closely with our tribal government in continuing to make this vital service available.
Season's Greetings
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The California Valley Miwok Tribe (located at 10601 Escondido Place, Stockton, CA 95212) on December 17th, 2009, received a holiday greeting addressed specifically to the chairperson of our tribe, Silvia Burley. The card was sent from the White House in Washington, D.C., and personally signed by President of the United States, Barack Obama and his lovely wife, First Lady Michelle Obama.
These are tumultuous and ever-changing times for our President and one can only guess of the complexity of his schedule and of the difficult decisions he must be making on a daily basis, so to know that he and his family took a moment to send a greeting to our chairperson, acknowledging her and our tribe during this holiday season, should be considered a source of inspiration to all Native American peoples as it is to our tribe that this president even with all he endures, finds the time to reflect and remember us Native Americans during this holiday season.
To the President of the United States of America, Barack Obama and our nation's First Lady, Michelle Obama, we thank you; this card means more to our chairperson and our tribe than the words written here can express.
Sherman Indian High School Visits California Valley Miwok Tribal Office
The Sherman Indian High School (located at 9010 Magnolia Ave., Riverside, CA 92503) in conducting an outreach program to California Indian communities, was invited to the California Valley Miwok Tribal Office (located at 10601 Escondido PL., Stockton, CA 95212) to present to the Tribe and attending officials what the curriculum consists of that is currently being taught at the Sherman educational facility. Representatives Karlene Clifford, M.S., P.P.S., of Luiseno/Miwok descent and Stephanie McMorris, M.S., P.P.S., of Hidatsa/Ho-chunk/Potawatomi descent - are counselors at the school and discussed a variety of topics and addressed all of the questions by the Tribe and attending officials.
The meeting started with opening prayer by Joni Drake, Site Manager of CTTP-TANF (located at 5405 N. Pershing Ave., Suite C-3, Stockton, CA 95207), followed by formal introductions by all of the attendees. The school currently has around 300-400 students that live on campus and attend classes. Currently these students come from twenty-four states, some coming from as far away as Alaska. It is not just a school, but a home away from home for these indigenous students, as the school is sensitive to Native American cultures and customs, having a curriculum that includes: drum making, sweats, beading, basket weaving, ceramics, internships at the school museum, monthly potlucks for elders and various cultural events.
The school like other high schools also teaches English, mathematics, science and social studies, etc., but specific to those young, indigenous students. The curriculum also includes studies in tribal government, federal government, tribal language and Indian studies. Among new programs being offered in the fall semester are classes in alternative energy, culinary arts, fire sciences and law enforcement, among others. Field trips to help students in furthering their education are a continuous activity at the school, taking students to advanced vocational institutes, universities and specialty schools including but not limited to higher learning in fashion, auto and the culinary arts.
The school also has on-site a fully staffed Indian health services department to address any medical or behavioral need that a resident student may have. Also on site are full time counselors to help students in their academic/social environment. The school also has a sports program in which students can participate in a number of athletic programs if they are so inclined. So if you are a high school aged student of Native American ancestry or know of someone whom is, Sherman Indian High School is a school you may want to consider that fully supports their students in their endeavor to succeed in academics and in life.
The California Valley Miwok Tribe would like to thank Stephanie McMorris, M.S., P.P.S., and Karlene Clifford, M.S., P.P.S., of the Sherman Indian High School for their in-depth presentation and to Joni Drake, Site Manager of CTTP-TANF and Mark Fountain, Vice Chairman of the Calaveras County Mountain Miwuk and a Tri-Miwok Consortium member for attending.
California Valley Miwok Tribe December USDA Food Distribution
The California Valley Miwok Tribe - located at 10601 Escondido Place, Stockton, CA 95212 - held the final installment of this year's USDA-sponsored food distribution on December 7th, 2009..
The Tribe was happy to see old friend and USDA food distribution director from the Tule River Tribe, Richard McDarment, whom participated in this month's distribution. It was a very cold day, but local participants braved the cold and were very thankful for the distributions. The Tribe though currently without funding, does not have the financial resources to hire a service with the proper equipment to navigate the unplowed roads of the areas in which many of the snowed-in recipients reside within Calaveras County and so are currently holding participants' distribution provisions in refridgerated storage at the Tribal Office in hopes that the Sierra storms may soon pass; enabling affected recipients safe access out of their homes to come and acquire their distributions.
This food program has been a major benefit to all the families that are currently being serviced; families that include members of the California Valley Miwok Tribe, the Calaveras band of Mi-wuk Indians, the Calaveras County Mountain Miwuk, the Historic Shingle Springs Miwok Tribe and The Colfax-Todds Valley Consolidated Tribe - as well as the Tlingit and Haida Indian Tribes of Alaska. The Tribe is thankful that the USDA has a program such as this and that the Tule River Tribe as a distribution center is making deliveries possible to federally recognized tribes so that in turn, tribes such as ours are able to provide this service to needy families within our service area.
The Tribe would like to thank the USDA, The Tule River Tribe, Richard McDarment, Ronald Buckman and all the participants whom continue to make this program so successful. We wish everyone a happy holiday season and good fortune in the coming new year.
California Valley Miwok Tribe Celebrates Nat'l American Indian Heritage Month at Event Hosted by DDJC
The Defense Distribution Center San Joaquin (DDJC) - located at 25600 S. Chrisman Rd., Tracy, CA - hosted an event on November 24th, 2009, honoring the rich history and diverse culture of the Native American Indian. Silvia Burley, Chairperson of the California Valley Miwok Tribe, was invited to be the keynote speaker at the event that was moderated throughout by Richard D. Maldonado of the Office of the Commander, which included indigenous dancers, traditional drumming and flute music for all of those in attendance.
The event opened with Richard D. Maldonado introducing the DDJC Commander, Colonel David Rodriguez. The Colonel addressed the audience, displaying much sincerity and sensitivity as he spoke of the Native Americans' ways of life, of living off the land within nature and of their sacrifices within the armed services.
Colonel Rodriguez ended his opening remarks with the introduction of California Valley Miwok tribal elder Mildred Burley, whom gave opening prayer in her native Miwok language and afterwards translated for the attendees the words she had spoken. Next, the dancers of Title 7 Native American Education, from the Manteca Unified School District, performed conducting a variety of traditional American Indian dances, including but not limited to; the friendship dance, inter-tribal dance, jingle dance and round dance. There was even a presentation of fancy dancers. All dances being performed were accompanied by traditional drum. When the dancing segment of the festivities concluded, moderator Richard D. Maldonado introduced Silvia Burley, Chairperson of the California Valley Miwok Tribe.
Chairperson Burley thanked the DDJC, its employees, staff and commander for the acknowledgement and respect that they bestowed upon the Native American Indian community on this day. She then made a presentation to Colonel David Rodriguez, commemorating this day after which she then read from a book one of her published poems and presented the autographed copy to Colonel David Rodriguez and the DDJC on behalf of herself and the Tribe. She also spoke of the continuing existance of the Native American community and of tribal governments, of the partnership the Tribe now has with the Depot, and the friendship it now feels with the DDJC and all of those whom were in attendance. Then with the guest speaker segment concluded, Richard D. Maldonado at the podium announced that Colonel David Rodriguez on behalf of the DDJC and himself, had an award to present to Chairperson Burley and the California Valley Miwok Tribe. The Tribe was both honored and proud to accept. Then with the event concluding, Richard D. Maldonado introduced Richard "Windfeathers" Muniz, a solo artist on traditional flute and Rick "Buckskin" Farrington, whom accompanied him on hand drum to finish the festivities with Native American indigenous music.
At this time, the Tribe would like to extend their thanks to the following: To Colonel David Rodriguez, Commander of DDJC and his staff and employees for holding an event such as this for the Native American community. To the Title 7 parents, drummers and dancers and their teacher, Linda Voorheis. To Richard "Windfeathers" Muniz, Title 7 flutist and to Richard D. Maldonado of the Office of the Commander for all his work and for moderating and making successful this days' event.
California Valley Miwok Tribe Attends "Students of Color" Conference Hosted by UC San Diego
The California Valley Miwok Tribe was invited to attend the 21st Annual "Students of Color" Conference, held November 13th - 15th, at the University of California San Diego. This year's theme for the conference was "Building Our Leaders with Purpose Through Activism, Wellness and Reclaiming Our Education".
The opening speaker was Dr. Sandra Daley, Associate Chancellor and Chief Diversity Officer of the University of California - San Diego (UCSD), whom spoke of the diversity of California and its institutions, how the hosting institution (UCSD) promotes diversity and of how diverse groups outperform non-diverse groups, as well as informing the audience of programs specifically aimed to help minority peoples acquire degrees in higher education. She addressed the reclaiming of education, being aware of racism, sexism and of using collaborative action to address these and many other issues to build stronger communities in which we live in.
The first guest speaker of the conference was then introduced by good friend of the Tribe and one of the Students of Color Conference (SOCC) Planning Committee chairpeople, Aries Yumul, whom introduced Silvia Burley, Chairperson of the California Valley Miwok Tribe. Chairperson Burley had been invited by the SOCC Planning Committee because of the now universal interest in her story and that of the Tribe. The Tribe currently without funding, has been living in a situation of eviction since June 17th of 2009. The fact that the address is listed in the federal register and recieves all official correspondence from federal, state and local agencies and that future communication would be adversly affected by an eviction is only one of the concerns. It is also needed to keep its Tribal members and the local Native American community aware of indigenous issues that affect their daily lives and services.
One such service is the monthly scheduled food distribution plan that must have a tribal address recognized by the USDA for food deliveries. Chairperson Burley talked of many issues both historically cultural and current, including them in a short story, "The Thunderstorm", then read aloud one of her many published poems, "Downwind in Spirit". She spoke of her personal accomplishments and of the importance of acquiring her education to be able to better address the needs of the Tribe.
She also thanked good friend of the Tribe and the California Native American community, Aries Yumul, and presented him with a certificate of appreciation for his support of sovereignty and California Native peoples. Mr. Yumul then spoke of his current project and invited others in attendance to become involved.
The first day's speaking engagement ended with K. Wayne Yang, Professor of Ethnic Studies at UCSD. Professor Yang talked of the Bill of Rights and of overcrowding in our school system, as well as how bad the conditions are for students in some districts at the junior high and high school levels. He talked about change, getting involved in networking and organizing and of the importance of minority students coming together in solidarity, to protect and keep available their opportunities in both education and in their communities.
After the speaking egagements, many workshops were held to provide interested individuals with in-depth information regarding the variety of topics discussed during the conference, Silvia Burley, Chairperson of the California Valley Miwok Tribe, was on hand to give further discussion and answer questions, as Aries Yumul (one of the SOCC chairpeople) moderated.
The following day of the conference, speaker Andrea Lee Smith, an assistant professor at Riverside Community College and a Native American of Cherokee descent, addressed issues including stopping violence against women of color in all ethnic groups; being specifically endeared to the plight of the Native American woman. Another indigenous issue of importance to her, is the co-founding of the Boarding School Healing Project. She is a co-founder of magazines, projects and organizations that all deal with correcting past injustices, of healing and of the strengthening of ones self and community.
Speaker Jorge Mariscal, whom has been a UCSD faculty member since 1986 was last to address the attendees. His range of accomplishments include but are not limited to, teaching at Grinnell college and the University of Wisconsin and being on the lecturing circuit, to founding a minority arts & humanities program at UCSD. He has done extensive research and writing, on minority cultures and social movements. One such topic also being the study of the vietnam war, focus being on minorities.
There was much to learn during this conference and there is no way to do justice in this little outline to all that occured - including the many workshops, activities, speakers, organizations and participants that made the 21st Annual Students of Color Conference such a success - but the Tribe was thankful to be invited and that so many California educational institutions were able to attend. The Tribe would like to give special thanks to all SOCC 2009 Planning Committee chairs, co-chairs and committee members.
| Leslie Manjarrez Gracelynne West Jet Antonio Maureen Abugan Adam Kenworthy |
Desiree Prevo Matt Vu Thao Nguyen Jasmine Marie Phillips Aries Yumul |
Facundo Ramos Alyssa Peace Natasha Nikki Ferrer-Perez Fnann Keflezighi |
Alot of people think America's greatness has passed but with young people such as these who will be our country's leaders of tomorrow, maybe the true greatness of our country has yet to be realized.
California Valley Miwok Tribe Assists Local Native American Family
On Tuesday, November 10th, 2009, the California Valley Miwok Tribal Office (located at 10601 Escondido Place, Stockton, CA 95212) recieved a call from a recipient of the Tribe's USDA food distribution program. The recipient, Lisa M. Zaldivar of the Tlingit and Haida Indian Tribe of Alaska, after making numerous attempts to recieve much needed assistance from organizations and individuals only to be turned down, turned to the tribe that as she stated, "has done so much for her Indian family with so little to give".
Her need for assistance is a common story. We live in a bad economy with a double-digit unemployment rate and her family, like most of us, was not immune to the impact this causes. Her husband, Marcos A. Zaldivar, has had a hard time with being displaced due to unemployment and has tried to re-enter the job market for over a year, but many jobs in his field of certification have diminished or have ceased to exist. He had now found a business in which to restart his career and provide for his Native American family, but needed just the minor assistance of the transporting of personal equipment required at his job site in time for his first scheduled day of work, or he would have to forfeit this chance to provide for his family.
The California Valley Miwok Tribe, currently unfunded, took up donations from within the Tribe and had Tribal Consultant Tiger Paulk provide transportation the following day. Mr. Zaldivar now has a means of supporting his family, working in a good location with great benefits and a manager whom is helping him to excel at what he does.
In these trying times and with the fast approaching holidays, the Tribe thought that this is the kind of story that should be told. A story of hope and achievement and that sometimes it does not take much just to lend a hand to lift someone up out of a dire situation to help them get back onto their feet. Marcos & Lisa Zaldivar, we wish you all the best for the holidays and in the coming years!
Caltrans Hosts Event Celebrating Local Native Americans
November is recognized nationally as "American Indian Heritage Month" and specifically within the state of California as "California Indian Heritage Month". On Tuesday, November 10th, 2009, Caltrans District 10 hosted an event celebrating the contributions and culture of the indigenous peoples whom have always called what is now known as California their aboriginal home.
Guest Speakers from local tribes were invited to speak on behalf of their ways of life, customs and beliefs. Also asked to speak was Richard "Windfeathers" Muniz, whom made the audience aware of the sacrifices that Native Americans have made and continue to make in the US Armed Services. After all of the speakers had been heard, the audience was allowed time to ask questions of the panel and comment upon their own experiences; some being of Native American descent themselves and sharing personal reflections of their own lives.
With the final minutes of the speaking engagement concluded, the program moved to an outside location to finish the day's activities with a traditional dance performed by native dancers from the Tuolumne Rancheria. The California Valley Miwok Tribe would like to thank all of those whom came together at this event and to Caltrans for respecting and acknowledging California's native community, with a special thanks to Kathleen McClaflin - Caltrans District 10 Native American Liasion, Office of Rural Planning and Administration, whom made this day possible.
The California Valley Miwok Tribe Concludes Another Food Distribution
On Monday, November 9th, 2009, the California Valley Miwok Tribe (located at 10601 Escondido Place, Stockton, CA, 95212) concluded another monthly installment of its USDA-sponsored food distribution service to program participants.
The Tribe was grateful to welcome the offered services of individuals of distinction whom volunteered their time for the benefit of the program - members of the National American Indian Veterans Organization of San Joaquin County. Lodge Commander Richard "Windfeathers" Muniz was accompanied by Native American Indian Veterans Mike Trujillo, Charlie Flores, Ceceil Salas and Ceceil's grandson, Andrew Salas. These individuals not only served their country in its time of need, but continue to serve in their local communities. The Tribe was honored that they gave their time to assist the food program and happy that they were on hand to distribute cases of water that they themselves donated to the participants.
As always, these monthly distributions also give participants in the program a chance to network together on many other issues. There is much happening for the California Valley Miwok Tribe and in the local Native American community and we all thank the members of the National American Indian Veterans Organization of San Joaquin County for their involvement and support. We also would like to thank the USDA and the Tule River distribution staff for making this monthly event possible.
Presidential Event Held at the Sidney R. Yates Auditorium
On Thursday, November 5th, 2009, the California Valley Miwok Tribe's week culminated in Washington, D.C., with a White House Tribal Nations conference, held at the Sidney R. Yates Auditorium, located within the Department of the Interior building at 1849 C Str. NW, Washington, D.C.
Security precautions were extremely high and only leaders representative of their tribes as recognized by the White House were invited to attend. Invitations and initiation of screening of all applicants began weeks in advance and concluded with passing through a final security checkpoint, prior to being seated in the Sidney R. Yates Auditorium. Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar opened the session which involved Navajo code talkers, Oglala singers and National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) President Jefferson Keel, introducing President of the United States Barack Obama.
President Obama gave a very well recieved speech, followed by taking questions and addressing various concerns of those in attendance, whom were fortunate enough to be selected. Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar served to moderate interactive discussion involving economic development, natural resources, energy, environment and agriculture; which included directors from various departments whom handle these issues. Mr. Salazar moderated further discussions between tribal leaders and government officials on the topics of public safety, housing, education, health care and labor.
In closing, President Obama returned and addressed the audience, followed by White House staff personnel Kimberly Teehee and Jodi Gillette. A closing prayer was observed, as well as the retiring of the flags. The California Valley Miwok Tribe was grateful to be invited and honored to attend. We thank President Obama for being so understanding of the needs of Native Americans and we deeply appreciate all of the kindness shown to our representatives during their week in Washington, D.C.
Smithsonian National Museum of the American Indian
The California Valley Miwok Tribe attended a reception for tribal leaders held by the National Congress of American Indians (NCAI), in which all tribal leaders from the 564 federally recognized tribes were invited. The event was held on November 4th, 2009, between 6:30-8:30pm, at the Smithsonian National Museum of the American Indian - located at 4th Str. and Independence Ave. SW, Washington, D.C.
One of the event functions was pre-registration to attend the President's address to tribal leaders, being held the following day at the United States Department of the Interior's Sidney R. Yates Auditorium, located at 1849 C Str. NW, Washington, D.C. During the reception, Chairperson Burley and tribal officials took the time to mingle and discuss important issues with other tribal leaders and elected officials. This truly was a productive event.
CVMT Attends Grand Opening of the Embassy of Tribal Nations
The California Valley Miwok Tribe, as a member tribe of the National Congress of American Indians (NCAI), was invited to attend the grand opening of the Embassy of Tribal Nations at their new location at 1516 P. Str. NW, Washington, D.C.
The Tribe sent Tribal Chairperson Silvia Burley, along with Tribal Secretary/Treasurer Rashel Reznor and Tribal Attorney Saba Bazzazieh, to participate in the festivities. The new location has been made possible by the efforts of NCAI, with the assistance of member tribes and various individuals, whom recieved awards of appreciation during the ceremonies in recognition that without their support, this day would not have been possible.
NCAI is a strong voice for Native American tribes and the California Valley Miwok Tribe is proud to be a supporting member. This marks the beginning of Native American activities that the Tribe will be attending all week-long in Washington, D.C., and the Tribe was very happy to be on hand to experience this momentous occasion, with all of the other attendees that were able to participate.
CVMT Partners with Defense Distribution Center, San Joaquin
On Friday, October 30th, 2009, Tribal Chairperson Silvia Burley and Tribal Consultant Tiger Paulk were invited by Richard D. Maldonado, of the Office of the Commander, to tour the Tracy facility of the Defense Distribution Center, San Joaquin (DDJC), located at 25600 S. Chrisman Rd, Tracy, California. The DDJC is one of only 25 distribution centers located in the continental United States and is the second largest. It has to meet the logistical needs of all US armed services; such as the Army, Navy, Marines, and Airforce - as well as military allies worldwide. Aside from warehousing and distribution, some assembly of various items is also performed on-site.
The reason for the invitation was to begin what will become a partnership between the Tribe and the Defense Distribution Center to educate and make aware to the indigenous communities, the opportunities that are available for qualified Native Americans seeking fulfilling employment with advancement opportunities and good benefits. The DDJC has reached out to the Tribe in this endeavor and the Tribe, believing this to be a first locally, is very proud to have been selected to work with the DDJC on this outreach program. The Tribe will be working with DDJC to put forth the best efforts for getting information out to the Native American community and looks forward to giving support to any other projects in the future in which DDJC wishes to involve the Tribe.
The Tribe and its members would like to thank the Defense Distribution Center, San Joaquin for initiating an outreach program such as this and inviting the California Valley Miwok Tribe to partner with them on this endeavor, as well as the employees that the Tribal representatives came in contact with, whom were so courteous. We would especially like to thank Richard D. Maldonado, for being so informative and representing the site and the Office of the Commander in such a professional manner.
Cosumnes River College Indigenous Peoples Week
Chairperson Silvia Burley of the California Valley Miwok Tribe was invited to speak on the issues of tribal sovereignty and cultural preservation in the southeast office complex conference room at the Cosumnes River College on October 14th, 2009.
Arriving early, Silvia attended a showing of the struggles of a local college called DQ University. Being a former "American Indian Higher Education Consortium Student of the Year" (1996-97) and graduate of DQU (1997), she spoke to the class of all of the things that DQU had done for her and how important the institution is to Indian students whom can no longer acquire a higher education with reverence to their cultural sensitivities through DQU, now that the university has lost its accreditation and has been forced to shut down. The sorrow she expressed was felt by the students, many of whom approached her after the screening.
Later in the southeast conference room, Chairperson Burley addressed the issues that she had been invited to speak on. She began with stories that reflected on the culture which surrounded her while growing up and how that culture is being erroded by time and outside influences. She appealed to the students that as fellow Californians, the history and culture of her people is also part of them and as such, needs to be protected. She also spoke of tribal sovereignty, how tribal governments conduct daily business and their government to government relationship with the United States and how the only way for Indian culture and tribal sovereignty to remain strong is through the vigilance of those it affects, as well as the support of the people whom were in attendance and made this event memorable.
The Tribe would like to thank all faculty, staff members and students of Cosumnes River College that were able to attend. The Tribe especially would like to thank Terry Davis, Commissioner of Activities at the Cosumnes River College and Co-Chair of the Indigenous Peoples Week Cultural Event for the invitation.
California Valley Miwok Tribe Attends NCAI 66th Annual Convention
The California Valley Miwok Tribe recently sent Chairperson Silvia Burley to the NCAI (National Congress of American Indians) convention, held October 11th - 16th, 2009, in Palm Springs, California.
While there, Silvia was able to attend many functions that will be instrumental in the Tribe's future. The Tribe felt that their Chairperson should attend, due to the numerous invitations that were sent addressed specifically to Chairperson Burley, asking for her participation, from such organizations as NCAI (National Congress of American Indians), CATG (California Association of Tribal Governments), SNA (Sovereign Nations Alliance), TTIRR (Tribal Transportation for Indian Reservation Roads), TEDNA (Tribal Education Departments National Assembly), AICCC (American Indian Chamber of Commerce of California), among others.
At the Tribal leaders' discussion with hundreds in attendance, including upper eschelon Interior officials, Chairperson Burley was able to voice many of the Tribe's concerns during an open mic session. Chairperson Burley was also able to elaborate on many of the concerns of the California Valley Miwok Tribe and the local Indian community with many high ranking Interior officials during the convention, leaving the event with a very positive feeling for the future of the California Valley Miwok Tribe and the local Indian community.
USDA Food Distribution A Continuing Success
10/12/09 - CVMT TRIBAL OFFICE, STOCKTON, CA -
On Monday October 12th, 2009, from 1:00 pm to 2:30 pm, the California Valley Miwok Tribe completed the October Food Distribution with continued access by the participants to Tribal facilities. The atmosphere during the event was relaxed and cordial, with many attendees networking amongst themselves to further assist and communicate with each other throughout the month until the next distribution. This is an unexpected bonus of the program; that the local Indian community participants can continue to interact and come together on many issues after getting to know one another as program participants.
The California Valley Miwok Tribe would like to thank all of the new participants for making the program a growing success - such as Lisa Zaldivar, an Alaskan native of the Tlingit & Haida Indian Tribes of Alaska. When asked, Lisa Zaldivar was glad to know that this program was locally available so that she could attend and thanked the Tribe for the help she is now going to recieve, but it was a privilege to help a fellow Native American so far away from her tribe with whatever services the Tribe could provide. We would also like to thank the USDA, the Tule River Tribe, their food distribution staff and especially Ronald Buckman, as well as all of the participants whom have helped the program grow by their continued attendenance.
UCSD Students Meet with CVMT Tribal Council, Pledge Support
On October 10th, 2009, while they were in northern California on travel, Joseph Ramirez, Matt Vu and Ernest Ciballos paid a visit to the California Valley Miwok Tribe. They are currently affiliated with the University of California San Diego (UCSD). They are dear friends of the Tribe and are very active in helping the native community.
While they were here, many important topics were discussed and they made the Tribe aware of some of their current endeavors. Although the Tribe was sorry that Aries Yumul, another UCSD friend of the Tribe and the California Indian community, could not make it due to previous obligations, it was spiritually uplifting to be visited by these students whom have bright futures ahead and a genuine concern for California's indigenous community.
Sept '09 USDA Food Distribution Event at CVMT Tribal Office
On Monday, September 14th, 2009 at 1:00 PM in the afternoon, the California Valley Miwok Tribe - located at 10601 Escondido Place, Stockton, California - celebrated the fifth installment of its USDA Food Distribution program. Benefactors of the food program and their children were given access to Tribal facilities, where an array of refreshments and snacks were made available, including traditional Miwok cuisine.
The annual food distribution has become so much more than just the dispersement of food to the families in need that participate - it is a coming together of the native community in which other issues and needs are addressed; involving workshops, cultural discussions and support networking, to name a few. What started out as a service now has become a monthly event to work together and try to help each other with any other needs that may have arisen during the previous month and to keep the Indian community strong.
We would like to thank Mr. Richard Windfeathers Muniz, a good friend of the Tribe and strong in the local community, for attending and helping to distribute food to participants during his visit. Mr. Muniz is the San Joaquin county Lodge Commander of the National American Indian Veterans and is of Picuris descent of the Taos Pueblo people from Chimayo, New Mexico. We would also like to thank Food Distributor Ronald Buckman, The Tule River Tribe, the USDA and all of the participants that make this program a continued success.
Local Area Tribes, CalTrans, Work Together to Save Sacred Site
For thousands of years, the Captain McKenzie Village had been occupied by its indigenous Miwok inhabitants, making it a major pre-historic and historical site. Throughout that time, the Miwok people would congregate at the village for many spiritual and cultural events, including but not limited to - gatherings, trading, healing and a crying area. Many other native customs which were practiced at the village by those whom lived there or came to participate in the gatherings.
The Calaveras Band of Mi-Wuk Indians and Shelly Davis-King have had an ongoing concern for the protection of this site and have been involved in its preservation for the last decade. At this time, the California Valley Miwok Tribe has instructed Debra Grimes, as their Cultural Preservation Director, to involve the Tribe in any ongoing efforts to better assist in the conservation of this once great village.
The immediate priority that was addressed by CalTrans and the respective Cultural Preservation representatives of both the Calaveras Band of Mi-Wuk Indians and the California Valley Miwok Tribe (both overseen by Ms. Grimes), was to halt further erosion damage to the village before the onset of winter. Many options were discussed between CalTrans officials and the Cultural Preservation representatives. The furthering of those options will be weighed to find the best short term and long term solutions to the critical issues currently facing the site and many will need to be re-addressed as the situation of the site changes in the years to come. Also discussed were other locations of concern located within the aboriginal boundaries of the two tribes, whose Cultural Preservation Departments anticipate working diligently alongside CalTrans in the future.
Ms. Mary Oliva, CalTrans Senior Environmental Planner, stressed the importance of communication between all parties involved and for the continued strengthening of the working relationship between CalTrans, the Calaveras Band of Mi-Wuk Indians and the California Valley Miwok Tribe - as well as their representative Cultural Preservation Departments - to best address all areas of concern and to work together to find the best possible solutions at all village sites within their prospective aboriginal territories.
At this time, we would like to thank CalTrans District 10 for their consideration in working with the Calaveras Band of Mi-Wuk Indians and the California Valley Miwok Tribe, in addressing the important issues discussed; also, in sending Ms. Mary Oliva, the Senior Environmental Planner and Ms. Tina Fulton, Native American Coordinator, whose offices are located within the CalTrans District 10 building in Stockton, California. This coming together on location with representatives participating for all interested parties provided a good spiritual feeling to all of the native peoples present.
Another Successful Food Distribution Concludes
The California Valley Miwok Tribe would like to thank all of those whom attended the Food Distribution - held at 10601 Escondido Place, Stockton, California 95212 - on August 11th, 2009; as well as for making it a continued success, as those in need qualify and are able to participate in the program. The Tribe is thankful for the opportunity to bring this service to indigenous families.
We have recieved many requests from communities as far south as Bakersfield, CA and as far north as Mt. Shasta, CA. If you happen to be in a location too distant for it to be economically feasible to participate in our program, please contact the local federally recognized tribe in your area to see if a similar program is available for which you may be eligible. The Tribe would like to thank the Tule River Tribe and the USDA for making this program possible.
NOTICE: USDA Food Distribution Announcement for August, 2009
08/05/09 - CVMT TRIBAL OFFICE, STOCKTON, CA -
The next USDA Food Distribution event is scheduled to take place on August 11th, 2009, from 1 to 3pm PST, at the CVMT Tribal Office, located at 10601 Escondido Place, Stockton, California, 95212.
USDA Food Distribution Continues as Scheduled
07/15/09 - CVMT TRIBAL OFFICE, STOCKTON, CA -
The California Valley Miwok Tribe successfully completed the July 13th USDA Food Distribution at 10601 Escondido Place, Stockton, California, 95212. The Tribe would like to thank all of those whom were able to attend for making the distribution a continued success and we also thank the USDA and the Tule River Tribe, for helping us to expand services such as this throughout the Indian community.
USDA Food Distribution Proving Successful
06/15/09 - CVMT TRIBAL OFFICE, STOCKTON, CA -
The California Valley Miwok Tribe would like to thank all of those whom attended the second USDA Food Distribution Program event, hosted by the Tribe at 10601 Escondido Place, Stockton, CA 95212. We are sorry some friends were not able to attend but we were happy to see others that the Tribe had never met. Please tell everyone you know and get the word out. Let's make this program a success and feed as many eligible Indian families as possible. The next distribution will be held July 13th, 2009.
CVMT Hosts First USDA Food Distribution Event at Tribal Office
The California Valley Miwok Tribe initiated the first of what will now be a monthly program working with the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and Food Distrubtion Program Operations Specialists Richard McDarment, Ronald Buckman, Patricia Solas and Jesus Solas from the Tule River Tribe. The California Valley Miwok Tribe, being a federally recognized Tribe which is eligible for these types of programs, is now able to provide food assistance to Indian peoples whom qualify.
The Tribe and USDA Food Distribution Program officials would like to thank everyone who turned out for this ceremonious day. Many members of the Tri-Miwok Consortium (California Valley Miwok Tribe, Calaveras Band of Mi-Wuk Indians and Calaveras County Mountain Miwuk) were benefactors. Also in attendance during the distribution and able to recieve benefit were members of the Colfax-Todds Valley Consolidated Tribe and the Historic Shingle Springs Miwok Tribe. The California Valley Miwok Tribe invites other local tribes whom may not have access to this program to contact us for applications and attend this newly instituted monthly event.
BELATED STORY: Tri-Miwok Consortium Joins USDA Food Dist. Program
The California Valley Miwok Tribe met with Richard McDarment, Director of the United States Department of Agriculture's Food Distribution Program, to arrange to bring the service that is administered through Richard and the Tule River Tribe to local families. The California Valley Miwok Tribe hopes to host a sucessful program that will help many people in need on a monthly basis. The Tribe wants to thank the USDA offices in Washington, D.C., and San Francisco, as well as Richard McDarment and the Tule River Tribe for working with our tribe to make this possible.
CVMT Appoints Debra Lynn Grimes as New Cultural Preservation Specialist
The California Valley Miwok Tribe is honored to have the opportunity to work with an individual of Ms. Grimes' vast expertise and moral dedication to the perservation of all aspects of the lives of the ones from whom we have descended and the sites that they once called home. This is not just a job for Ms. Grimes, it is a way of life.
Debra Grimes began her career in Native American cultural preservation 15 years ago as a native training monitor and for years has held the title of "Cultural Resource Specialist", working on or having complete oversight on over 60 projects since 1994. The Tribe is greatly pleased to have an experienced individual whom will now have oversight on all projects within the Tribe's service area, which includes but is not limited to; Alameda County, Alpine County, Contra Costa County, Fresno County, Madera County, Merced County, San Joaquin County, Solano County, Stanislaus County, and Calaveras County.
CVMT Inducts Tribal Member Daveen Williams as Coordinator of Health & Human Resources Dept.
The California Valley Miwok Tribe would like to introduce Daveen Williams, our new Health & Human Resources Coordinator. Daveen Williams is a recent enrollee of the Tribe, with vast experience in community and non-profit organizational work and is utilizing her skills to fill a much needed position within the Tribe. The Tribe is very happy to have acquired someone whom is eager to initiate her new position and work within the indigenous communities.
CVMT Meets with Environmental Protection Specialist Gilbert Pasqua
The California Valley Miwok Tribe - with offices located at 10601 Escondido Place, Stockton, CA - was honored to host a visit from Gilbert Pasqua, an Environmental Protection Specialist from the Tribal Program Office of the United States Environmental Protection Agency.
Mr. Pasqua updated the Tribe on environmental/clean air issues, as well as how the Tribe can become more involved in the central valley to help make a difference in enhancing the quality of the local environment for their community. The Tribe would like to thank Mr. Pasqua for his informative visit and thoroughness in addressing all of the Tribe's concerns. For more information on the United States Environmental Protection Agency, please visit their official website.
KKUP 91.5 Update
03/17/09 - Chairperson Burley and Tribal Consultant Tiger Paulk were interviewed by Chaplin Jack Hyatt, host of "Indian Time" with Mr. David Romero taking listener's calls. A wide range of topics were discussed, mostly relating to cash flow short falls and the adverse effects that it has on Native American tribes and their internal programs. The Tribe would like to thank Chaplin Jack Hyatt, Mr. David Romero and all of the listeners in radioland for all of the opinions that were shared; the result of which will be posted in future updates.
Meet & Greet Session Hosted by the California Valley Miwok Tribe
03/08/09 - CVMT TRIBAL OFFICE, STOCKTON, CA -
The California Valley Miwok Tribe held a special meeting, inviting officials and members from the Calaveras Band of Mi-Wuk Indians and the Calaveras County Mountain Miwuk. Many issues and concerns were discussed in a friendly, open quorum. The meeting was highly successful, culminating in the three tribes forming a consortium, aiming to work together to address the needs of their tribes, as well as supporting one another in their efforts to enrich the lives of their tribal members by acquiring much needed services. The California Valley Miwok Tribe sincerely thanks all of those who were able to attend.
Pictured standing (clockwise from left): Donald "Joe" French, Dolores "Bebe" Jeff, Debra Grimes, Heather Grimes, Gloria Grimes, Nichole Grimes, Mildred Burley, Daveen Williams, Silvia Burley, Montch Jeff, Anjelica Paulk, Daniel David Sandoval, Joyce Rummerfield, Mark Fountain, Colleen Mose. Pictured sitting (from left): Audrey French, Gladys Jeff, Carol Rasmussen (seated behind Gladys), Dolores "Midge" Turner, Lester Mose. |
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Tribes in Attendance |
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California Valley Miwok Tribe |
Calaveras Band of Mi-Wuk Indians |
Calaveras County Mountain Miwuk |
Silvia Burley, Chairperson |
Gloria Grimes, Chairperson |
Dolores "Midge" Turner, Chairperson |
CVMT Attends ITCC Annual General Council Meeting
The California Valley Miwok Tribe attended the Inter-Tribal Council of California (ITCC) conference of February 27th/28th, 2009, in which subjects ranging from water and sacred site preservation to current health issues and homeland security were discussed. Much of the agenda centered around families, community and protecting the indigenious cultures and practices of California, as well as reclaiming and honoring the ancestors of our past, whom had given so much as to make us who we are today. We are honored to be a member of such a positive organization.
Chairperson Burley Interviewed on KKUP 91.5 FM "Indian Time" Program
The Tribal Council and membership of the California Valley Miwok Tribe, with its offices located at 10601 Escondido Place, Stockton, California - would like to thank Chaplin Jack Hyatt - host of KKUP 91.5 FM "Indian Time" (seated center), and Mr. David Romero - host of "Native Way" (seated right) for the opportunity to discuss various issues adversly affecting tribal governments and their members, caused by the current economic downturn and shortfalls in financing for various tribal programs. For more information about this radio program, visit "Indian Time" with Jack Hyatt and David Romero on MySpace.
California Valley Miwok Tribe's Chairperson Speaks with Native Voice TV
The Tribal Council and members of the California Valley Miwok Tribe, with its offices located at 10601 Escondido Place, Stockton, California - would like to thank host Cihuapilli Rose Amador of Native Voice TV (which airs on Sundays at 6 p.m. PST on Comcast channel 15 in San Jose/Campbell) for inviting Tribal Chairperson Silvia Burley to discuss various issues which affect indigenous peoples' lives and future prospects.
Cihuapilli Rose Amador first appeared on the air waves with Native Voice TV in March of 2004. Native Voice TV is a highly informative talk show with knowledgable and sometimes well known guests from across the USA, whom discuss topics of concern for indigenous peoples, along with community and civic-minded interaction. Updates on activities and current events are also a staple of the show.
Miss Amador is also credited with co-founding La Raza Roundtable, as well as actively participating in the National Council of La Raza, based in Washington D.C., and has worked for decades in non-profit organizations such as CTC/WorkNET. She is a "Woman of the Year" award winner, as presented to her by the state of California in 2005. For further information about "Native Voice TV", please visit http://nativevoicetv.com/