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  • Projects (List) | Coyote Valley Tribe

    Projects CVRX Pharmacy & Urgent Care Read More Zero Carbon World Read More Desert Wildlife Conservation Read More

  • DEPARTMENTS | Coyote Valley Tribe

    We are here to serve our people and provide the best services we can offer. Please check out our departments for assistance. DEPARTMENTS HEALTH & HUMAN SERVICES Providing health and social services to tribal families. LEARN MORE ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION Working to protect and restore the environmental health of the reservation. LEARN MORE EDUCATION Giving our Native community the tools they need to grow and succeed in today’s society through educational programs, cultural classes, and youth mentorship. LEARN MORE HOUSING Serving the Native community by providing low to moderate-income housing on the reservation, and offering a number of other services and assistance programs to members on and off the reservation. LEARN MORE TRIBAL POLICE A Federally Commissioned Law Enforcement Agency dedicated to providing a safe environment for our members and guest. LEARN MORE ADMINISTRATION & FINANCE Providing administrative, clerical, and fiscal support to the tribal membership, governmental body, and departments. LEARN MORE

  • Discover Pomo Tribal History Overview | Coyote Valley Tribe Insights

    Explore the rich pomo tribal history overview and discover insights into the heritage and culture. Learn about pomo tribal history overview here. Coyote Valley History Ancestorial Territory The Pomo people have lived in the areas of Mendocino, Lake, and Sonoma counties for many millennia, denoting the thousands upon thousands of years our people have lived and thrived in the area now known as Mendocino County. These people differentiated themselves in many ways, one such being their language. By dialect these people are further broken down as Northern, Central, Eastern, Northeastern, Southeastern, Southern, and Kashaya (Southwestern) peoples who spoke the same languages over a range of their territories. The Pomo people were weavers, famous for their beautiful basketry, healers, whose songs and ceremonies called upon divine and sacred healing powers, and a peaceful people, who made many connections with surrounding indigenous groups who bordered their greater territory. Oral traditions strengthened communities, stories of creation, of the natural world, and of the spirits that lived alongside the people. The Sho:daxay (Shodakai) Pomo, our people, originate in the northern territory alongside the Russian river of the Pomo homeland, the dialect predominately of Northern Pomo. Map of the Pomoan languages (Walker 2020). “Northern Pomo.” California Language Archive, cla.berkeley.edu/languages/northern-pomo.html. The 1800's Nestled in the foothills alongside the east fork of the Russian River, Coyote Valley was one of several valleys running along the river’s many branches. In the 1800s, it was described as being “all brush,” a “bare trace of land, where nothing grew, no trees or shrubs, just grasses.” However, a thriving population of Indians lived in this valley long before settlement occurred and still inhabited the area when the first non-Indians came. In 1835, Spanish troops led by Captain Sepulvedo Vallejo came to procure Indians from Coyote Valley and the surrounding area, to work on houses and forts being built at Sonoma, followed soon after by expeditions to procure Indian children as slaves. Coyote Valley, Calpella, and Redwood Valley were “settled” sometime early in the 1850’s as part of the township of the Ukiah and hence divided into grants of land and farms. On December 10, 1878, a group of Indians of the Ca-ba-kana, Pomo, and Katca tribes of Redwood Valley bought seven acres of the land in Coyote Valley for two hundred dollars. The land was mostly flat and extended to the western edge of the property and was part of Riverside Ranch, a large ranch owned by Lucius Byron Frasier. Title to the Old Rancheria was held in common by the “Redwood Valley Tribe.” Although eighteen men were listed in the deed as owners, it appears that there were usually no more than five or six families living there at any given time. The Indians of Coyote Valley rejected housing provided by the ranchers and preferred to live in “grass homes” on their own property, but some wooden houses also stood on the land. These homes were made of rough redwood board and batten construction. There were few windows, and in some cases, the houses were without doors. Their homes did not have running water, unlike the homes of their non-Indian neighbors. The Indians would pack buckets of water to their homes from the river or from a year-round spring located near their homes. Early 1900's In 1909, the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) purchased land in Coyote Valley for the benefit of the Indians of the Ukiah Valley. The land, known as the Coyote Valley Rancheria, was made up of 101 acres and consisted of three distinct sections: rivers bottom, sloping hillside and a flat terrace land overlooking the river. According to residents of the Rancheria, there were live oaks and white oaks growing in isolated and dense groves on the bottomland. It was “open in places, rocky grasslands also in other places and poison oak all over.” The traditional diet of the Coyote Valley Rancheria residents underwent change long before the establishment of the Rancheria in 1909. Residents stated that whites had essentially destroyed traditional sources of clover and acorns and only a few were left accessible to them. Deer were scarce, but the fishing remained good. No livestock other than poultry were kept on the Rancheria. During the summer, deer were hunted in the hills around the valley. For the most part, however, residents depended upon stores in Ukiah as the major source of food. Residents’ memories of buying dry goods in Ukiah were not pleasant. By the early 1920s, it appears that eight individuals held assignments on the Coyote Valley Rancheria. In the mid-1940s, nine field assignments were issued for agricultural and related activities; three of the assignments were issued to residents who already had house assignments there, while six were issued to residents of Pinoleville. As with most Indians throughout the country, Coyote Valley Rancheria residents were discriminated against in the Ukiah Valley. Stores in town would not allow Indians to try on ready-made clothing, which meant they had to take a trip to Santa Rosa if they wanted to try on clothes before purchase. They were not served in local beauty parlors, and only one restaurant, run by a Chinese family, would accept Indian patronage. The local movie theater permitted Indians to sit only in the balcony. In the 1920s, a number of residents attempted to enroll in local schools. One resident recalled, “They didn’t allow Indians,” although there were occasional exceptions. Coyote Valley Indians attended an Indian school in Pinoleville as well as the Sherman Institute in Riverside, California, and Chemawa Indian Training School in Oregon. Four Indian men attempted to steal wine from the storage facility of an Italian grape grower. When the grower confronted them, he was fatally shot. All four men were indicted and brought to trial. Three were convicted and received lengthy prison sentences. The fourth, an Indian from the Old Rancheria, was found not guilty. Their defense was conducted by Ukiah lawyer Arthur "Wessels", whose fee was $250.00 at 8% per year payable in two years. The promissory note was signed on January 26, 1924, and was secured by a mortgage on the Old Rancheria. The young Indian families were unable to pay the principal or interest on the note. Wessels eventually assigned the lot to Mrs. Susan Husted of Ukiah for $250.00. Finally, on January 27, 1928 the court issued a decree of foreclosure and order of sale. On April 21, 1928, by order of the court, the land was sold on the steps of the courthouse to the highest bidder for the sum of $376.50. By the 1940s, this discrimination had, in the main, ended largely due to the efforts of the Pomo Mothers Club . Employment was usually seasonal. Men, women and older children picked fruit and hops from March to July and grapes and pears from September to October. In the early years, women were not allowed to pick pears since it was considered too difficult. Some women did laundry and housekeeping for white families, but from November to March there were usually no significant income at all for any of the Rancheria’s residents. For men as well, winter offered few employment opportunities. In need for a mechanism, whereby Coyote Valley Rancheria residents could regulate their own business activities, 12 members passed the constitution and by-laws for a regulatory organization. On May 27, 1947, The Growers of the Coyote Valley Rancheria Association was formally organized. This photo depicts a view of what is now known as the Bushay Recreation Area and Eastside Trailhead area of Lake Mendocino before the Pomo Indians were removed for the development of the Russian River dam. (1953) Mid 1900's Diane-Ortiz, Altheia Campbell-Ortiz, Hannah Ortiz, Janet Ortiz-Mulhorn, Josephine Campbell-Bernard, Altheia Ortiz-Magana In a report produced in 1951 by the Bureau of Indian Affairs, the Rancheria was described as having three distinct levels. The first level, located on the main highway, was the location of the homesites. The seven or eight houses, all constructed by the Indians themselves, were in good condition with electricity in all the houses. The second level was agricultural with about 13 acres of the vineyard being farmed by members of the Pinoleville Rancheria. The report also indicated that there were two wells on the Rancheria, a spring providing one family with freshwater and one water tank with a holding capacity of six thousand gallons. Ten years after the sale, the status of the Coyote Valley Indians came up again. Although the bill HR 6692 specified that Coyote Valley’s status as a recognized tribe was “terminated,” the Indians believed there tribal status was illegally destroyed. In 1973, James F. King, an attorney with the California Indian Legal Services, wrote to the BIA in Sacramento on behalf of the Coyote Valley Indians, inquiring as to the specific legal authority for the condemnation of the Coyote Valley land and the termination of their tribal status. On February 20, 1976, a final declaratory judgment and permanent injunction was issued by action of Eddie F. Knight versus Thomas S. Kleep and by Judge W. I. Sweigert, United States District Court, North District of California (Actions 73 – 0334; 74 – 0005). This judgment declared that termination of the Coyote Valley Rancheria in 1957 was invalid and that the government-to-government relationship between the United States and the Coyote Valley Pomo, as documented on the various Rancheria distribution plans, continued to exist. The Coyote Valley Band of Pomo Indians regained their status as a recognized tribal group. Thus, in 1976, the Coyote Valley Tribal Council was organized for the primary purpose of regaining a land base for the band and to promote the economic and social welfare of its members. On October 3, 1980, the General Council ratified the governing document entitled, The Document Embodying the Laws, Customs and Tradition of the Coyote Valley Band of Pomo Indians. Prior to the late 1970’s, the tribe had begun looking for property that would be suitable for a residential community. A Community Development Block Grant was awarded to the tribal community from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) in 1979, to purchase a 52 to 76 acre parcel in Redwood Valley, California. The land was taken into Federal Trust status the same year. A Secretarial proclamation declared this new tribal land to be a federally recognized Indian reservation. 1 Carpenter, Aurelius O., and Percy H. Millberry. “Early Settlement.” History of Mendocino and Lake Counties, California, with Biographical Sketches of the Leading, Men and Women of the Counties Who Have Been Identified with Their Growth and Development from the Early Days to the Present. Los Angeles, Cal.: Historic Record, 1914. 70. Print. 2 Carpenter, Aurelius O., and Percy H. Millberry. “The Grant.” History of Mendocino and Lake Counties, California, with Biographical Sketches of the Leading, Men and Women of the Counties Who Have Been Identified with Their Growth and Development from the Early Days to the Present. Los Angeles, Cal.: Historic Record, 1914. 82. Print. 1980 Constitution Adopted The General Council adopted the Document Embodying the Laws, Customs and Traditions of the Coyote Valley Band of Pomo Indians, formally establishing the Tribe's governing document and creating the framework for the modern Tribal government. The Redwood Valley property acquired through a HUD Community Development Block Grant was proclaimed a federally recognized Indian Reservation and taken into trust, establishing the Tribe's new permanent homeland following restoration. 1986 Thirty HUD homes were completed on the Reservation through a $1.75 million housing development project, providing permanent housing for Tribal citizens and representing one of the first major investments in rebuilding the community. 1994 On July 1,1994, The Tribe opened its first gaming facility in a double-wide trailer, marking the beginning of Indian gaming at Coyote Valley. 1994 In November the casino relocated into a sprung-structure tent, expanding gaming operations and establishing the Tribe's long-term economic foundation. 2000's 2012 In October, the General Council approved significant amendments to the Tribal Constitution, modernizing membership provisions, strengthening the Tribal Judiciary, and affirming the Tribe's authority over its governing document. The amendments were subsequently acknowledged by the Bureau of Indian Affairs. 2015 In August, construction began on new Tribal facilities to support the continued growth of government services and economic development. 2015 On March 19, 2016, the Coyote Valley One Stop Shop, Fuel Station, and adjacent Class II gaming facility opened. The project became the first Tribal business owned and operated by Coyote Valley Retail Enterprises (CVRE), a subsidiary of the Coyote Economic Development Corporation (CEDCO), creating new employment opportunities and expanding Tribal enterprise. 2017 In October during the Redwood Valley Fire Emergency, the Tribe opened its facilities and provided food, shelter, and essential supplies to evacuees and members of the surrounding community, demonstrating its commitment to serving both Tribal citizens and Mendocino County residents. The Tribe entered into an agreement with Mendocino County supporting the relocation and expansion of the Coyote Valley Casino, laying the groundwork for future economic growth. 2018 In May, ground was broken on a major housing development that would provide new homes for Tribal citizens and elders. In December, the Tribe celebrated the opening of the Elder Village, providing dedicated housing for Tribal elders and strengthening intergenerational community connections. 2019 On September 12, 2019, the new Coyote Valley Casino officially opened. The approximately 30,000-square-foot facility features Class III gaming, poker, dining, entertainment space, and expanded amenities, representing one of the largest economic development projects in Tribal history. On November 15,2019, The Tribe celebrated the completion of its Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) development, including Elder Village homes, new single-family residences, and rehabilitation of existing housing. The Tribe partnered with Mendocino College through the Pomo Pathways program, supporting Native students in higher education and celebrating strong student achievement and retention. 2021 State legislation authorized the transfer of Blues Beach to Tribal ownership, restoring stewardship of an important ancestral coastal property. 2023 On January 26,2023, the Tribe formed the Coyote Valley Utility Corporation (CVUC) to oversee utility infrastructure supporting Tribal housing and enterprise operations. The Tribe also expanded renewable energy through installation of a 2,250-kW solar canopy system. On September 30,2023, the Wyndham Garden Hotel opened adjacent to the casino, expanding tourism, hospitality, and economic opportunities through a 99-room hotel with conference facilities and guest amenities. 2026 The Tribe expanded its economic development initiatives through the creation of new Tribal corporations focused on housing, financial technology, and healthcare, continuing its long-term strategy of economic diversification and self-sufficiency.

  • Amanda Pulawa | Coyote Valley Tribe

    Amanda Pulawa serves as Treasurer of the Coyote Valley Band of Pomo Indians, bringing dedication and expertise to managing the Tribe’s financial health and supporting initiatives that strengthen the community’s growth and well-being. Coyote Valley Tribal Council Back Amanda Pulawa Treasurer, Coyote Valley Band of Pomo Indians Elected in 2024 Amanda Pulawa has served as Tribal Treasurer on the Coyote Valley Tribal Council since January 2019. Her dedication to this role has deepened her passion for community service and inspired her to pursue a degree in Business Accounting and Management, further strengthening her leadership and financial stewardship. Committed to advancing her community, Amanda is passionate about youth programs, environmental stewardship, and economic development within tribal government. Her professional background reflects a strong foundation in community-centered work, with previous roles including Preschool/Daycare Assistant, Youth Coordinator, EPA Administrative Assistant, and various positions within the Gaming Commission, including Commissioner. Beyond her professional contributions, Amanda has actively served on several key committees, including the Coyote Valley Education Center Parent Committee, the Pinoleville Head Start and Early Head Start Policy Council, and Coyote Valley 4-H. In these roles, she has consistently advocated education and youth empowerment. A devoted mother of five and proud grandmother of two, Amanda cherishes time spent with her family and finds joy in nurturing strong bonds and cultural traditions. She is also a gifted artist, known for crafting traditional regalia dresses for women and girls—an expression of her deep respect for heritage and cultural continuity. In addition, she lends her creativity to community events, designing vibrant decorations that bring warmth and celebration to tribal gatherings. Often called upon for her festive touch, Amanda pours her heart into everything she does, uplifting those around her with her passion, creativity, and generous spirit.

  • RFP's | Coyote Valley Tribe

    The Coyote Valley Gaming Commission has been delegated the responsibility of enforcing all applicable tribal, state, and federal laws, and the regulations promulgated by the Gaming Commission for the purpose of carrying out its duties under the Compact and the Gaming Ordinance. RFPs Architectural and Engineering Services RFP

  • John Feliz Sr. | Coyote Valley Tribe

    John Feliz Sr., elected to the Coyote Valley Tribal Council in 2014, serves the Coyote Valley Band of Pomo Indians with deep experience, having previously held roles as Tribal Historian and Tribal Secretary. Coyote Valley Tribal Council Back John Feliz Sr. Member at Large, Coyote Valley Band of Pomo Indians Elected December 9,2014 Elected in 2014 to the Coyote Valley Tribal Council, John Feliz, Sr. serves as a Tribal Council Member to the Tribal government of the Coyote Valley Band of Pomo Indians. Council Member Feliz served the Tribe in prior leadership positions as a Tribal Historian and Tribal Secretary to the Tribal Council. Mr. Feliz has worked for the Tribe for over 15 years as a Housing Maintenance Supervisor for the Tribe’s Housing Department. He has dedicated over a decade of service to the Tribe in numerous capacities. He is committed to providing effective leadership and supporting efforts so that tribal members have better employment, housing, health care, and education opportunities. As a previous member of the Tribal Council, Feliz was a part of the leadership team that renegotiated Tribe’s gaming compact with the State of California, which significantly reduced the Tribe’s financial burdens, saving the Tribe millions of dollars in fees paid to the State. In past leadership roles, Feliz represented the Tribe at Tribal EPA Regional functions with other Tribal delegates. Over the years, he has been involved in and worked with Tribal Council members on a number of tribal efforts including the establishment of Tribe’s economic development corporation, a tribal court, and other important tribal endeavors. Council Member Feliz believes in upholding and supporting the Tribe’s constitution and protecting the rights of all tribal members. Council Member Feliz grew up in Mendocino County and has lived there his entire life. During his high school career, John Feliz, Sr. was an accomplished sportsman at Ukiah High School, participating in the wrestling and football programs. Later, Council Member Feliz wrestled for Mendocino College. Feliz is an avid NASCAR fan. He currently resides on the Coyote Valley Reservation, where he enjoys helping members of the community. He has two children and five grandchildren.

  • OVC | Coyote Valley Tribe

    Coyote Valley Office of Victims and Crime offers confidential crisis support, advocacy, and resources for individuals and families affected by trauma and violence. Committed to healing, empowerment, and honoring cultural traditions within the community. CRISIS & VICTIM SERVICES (OVC) Crisis and Victim Services at Coyote Valley provide immediate support, advocacy, and resources for individuals and families experiencing trauma, violence, or crisis situations. Our team supports the community through outreach, wellness activities and events, surveys along with confidential assistance, safety planning, emotional support, connections to legal, behavioral counseling services. Our program is committed to healing and empowerment, we ensure survivors receive compassionate care while honoring cultural traditions and community strength. Services-Family Our Services: 24/7 Crisis Support – Immediate assistance for victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, human trafficking, and other crimes. Emotional Support & Advocacy – Confidential guidance, crisis counseling, and support throughout the healing process. Legal & Court Advocacy – Assistance with filing reports, protection orders, and navigating the justice system. Emergency Assistance – Help with shelter, transportation, food, and basic needs for those in crisis. Referrals & Resources – Connection to counseling, legal aid, and other essential services. Cultural & Community Healing – Support that integrates traditional and culturally relevant healing practices. Apply Eligibility Tribal member of Coyote Valley Band of Pomo Indians survivors of domestic violence victims of sexual assault those affected by human trafficking individuals experiencing stalking members of the community affected by violent crime families facing natural disasters or community crises Our services are inclusive, confidential, and free of charge. Program Details: Examples of Crisis: Domestic Violence Assault Abuse Loss of a loved one Addiction Loss of job/home Examples of Victimization: Physical assault Sexual assault Bullying Robbery/theft Social exclusion We Are Here for You If you or someone you know needs support, you are not alone. Our trained Victim Advocates provide a safe, confidential space where you can seek help, ask questions, and find a path toward healing. Contact Us If you or someone you know is going through a crisis, contact the crisis lines for immediate assistance. You are not alone. Strong Hearts Native Helpline 1(844)762-8483 Mendocino County Access Line 1(800)555-5906 RCS Crisis Line 24/7 toll free 1(855)838-0404 Brochures: Crisis & Victim Advocate Services Annette Azbill Crisis & Victim Advocate Contact Phone: (707) 472-6984 email: communityadvocate@coyotevalley-nsn.gov Annette Azbill Events No events scheduled

  • Activities & Field Trips | Coyote Valley Tribe

    The Coyote Valley Education Department offers daily themed activities in arts, crafts, music, and sports, designed with children’s input to foster creativity and skills. During school breaks, kids enjoy engaging field trips, including overnight stays, that enrich learning and fun. ACTIVITIES & FIELD TRIPS Activities are done daily in the EDU centers & gymnasium once children have completed their academic assignments. Each week is focused on particular themes that engage children in arts n crafts, painting, drawing, building, music, and other creative/artistic skills. The majority of these themes/activities are created by children’s input & ideas that is expressed to staff. Children interested in recreational activity have the chance to do physical sports activity in the gymnasium with staff. Children have many options to choose from to keep them engaged and learn different types of skills at the same time. The majority of these trips are done when children are on school/holiday breaks giving them the opportunity to attend these functions without interfering with schooling. Some trips involve long-distance traveling & overnight staying. Services-Youth The Coyote Valley Education Department provides daily activities at the Education Centers & Gymnasium to engage children in fun, educational, and creative experiences. Eligibility: Must be a Tribal member of Coyote Valley Band of Pomo Indians Ages: Apply Daily Activities & Themed Weeks Creative Arts & Crafts – Painting, drawing, building, music, and other artistic skills. Themed Weeks – Each week focuses on a specific theme based on children’s input and ideas. Recreational Activities – Children interested in sports and physical activities can participate in structured play in the gymnasium with staff supervision. Excursions & Field Trips School & Holiday Breaks – Special trips are planned when school is out to allow full participation. Varied Destinations – Some trips involve long-distance travel and overnight stays, giving children the opportunity to explore new places and experiences. Six Flags 2025 Describe your image Alton, Benny, and Pride at Six Flags Describe your image Six Flags 2025 Describe your image Six Flags 2025 Describe your image 1/4 Tristen Hunter Education Coordinator Contact email: eduth@coyotevalley-nsn.gov Tristen Hunter Events No events scheduled Mobile: (707) 391-8284

  • Discover TNAP: Tribal Food Services Program for Your Community's Wellness

    Empower your family with the tribal food services program. Access nutritious meals and learn sustainable practices for lasting wellness. TRIBAL NUTRITION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM (TNAP) The Tribal Nutrition Assistance Program (TNAP) is dedicated to ensuring that Tribal families have access to healthy, nutritious food. We provide culturally relevant food assistance, nutrition education, and support services to promote overall well-being and food security within our community. Through TNAP, families can receive essential food resources while learning about traditional and modern ways to maintain a balanced, healthy diet. Our program is committed to strengthening our community by fostering health, wellness, and self-sufficiency for all members. Services-Health & Wellness The Tribal Nutrition Assistance Program (TNAP) is dedicated to improving food security, promoting healthy eating habits, and supporting the overall well-being of Tribal families. By providing access to nutritious foods and educational resources, we empower our community to make informed choices for a healthier future. Eligibility: Tribal member of Coyote Valley Band of Pomo Indians Apply Program Details: Food Assistance & Distribution Monthly food packages featuring healthy and culturally relevant foods Access to fresh fruits, vegetables, proteins, and pantry staples Special support for elders, families with young children, and individuals in need Nutrition Education & Wellness Cooking classes and workshops on preparing balanced meals Guidance on traditional and modern nutrition practices Tips for meal planning, budgeting, and making healthy choices Community Support & Outreach Family and community meal events to encourage wellness and connection Resources for gardening, food preservation, and traditional food knowledge Eligibility & Enrollment Assistance Support in determining program eligibility and completing applications Assistance with accessing additional food resources and services One-on-one guidance to ensure families receive the support they need Brochure : More Information about benefits Sara Basaldua Outreach Coordinator Contact Phone: (707) 472-2242 email: outreach@coyotevalley-nsn.gov Sara Basaldua Events No events scheduled

  • Forms | Coyote Valley Tribe

    YSPP Basketball Tournament Become a Vendor! First name Last name Email Phone Company name What will you be selling? Day or Days you are interested in becoming a vendor Saturday, November 22 Sunday, November 23 Monday, November 24 Tuesday, November 25 Do you need a table? Submit

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