Several developments are moving forward this week across the Warm Springs Reservation, from encouraging financial news to upcoming cultural events and community health programs open to tribal members.

Tribal Enterprises Project Strong 2027 Dividends

Tribal enterprise leaders delivered positive financial news this week, projecting robust dividend payments for 2027 to help fund community services. Warm Springs Power & Water is leading the outlook, with projections of approximately $12 million in dividends — funds that flow back into tribal government operations, social services, and community programs across the reservation.

The dividend projections reflect the continued strength of the Confederated Tribes' enterprise portfolio as the tribal government works to build long-term economic self-sufficiency. Warm Springs Power & Water, which operates the Pelton Round Butte hydroelectric project on the Deschutes River in partnership with Portland General Electric, has been a cornerstone of that effort for decades.

This week's Tribal Council sessions were canceled and a planned Simnasho Enterprise meeting was postponed. Tune in to KWSO 91.9 for updates on rescheduled dates.

Museum at Warm Springs: 33rd Annual Exhibit Entry Deadline Oct. 20

Artists and craftspeople from across the Confederated Tribes have until October 20 to submit entries for the Museum at Warm Springs' 33rd Annual Tribal Member Exhibit. The annual show is a cornerstone of the museum's programming, celebrating the creative traditions and contemporary artistry of Warm Springs tribal members across generations.

The Museum at Warm Springs, located at 2189 U.S. Highway 26, is open to the public and serves as a vital cultural institution for Jefferson County and the broader Central Oregon region. For entry details, contact the museum at (541) 553-3331.

Community Belonging Project Focus Group — Oct. 15

The OHSU and OSU-Cascades Community Belonging Project will hold a focus group at the Warm Springs Old School Cafeteria on Thursday, October 15, from 5 to 7 p.m. Dinner and a $10 gift card will be provided to participants.

The project — a collaboration between Oregon Health & Science University and OSU-Cascades — aims to better understand community belonging and wellbeing in tribal and rural communities. Warm Springs community members who are primary caregivers of children under 18 are especially invited to attend and help design a broader community survey.

Youth Drum Making Class

A powwow drum making class for tribal youth was held Wednesday, October 7, at the Old School Cafeteria — part of an ongoing series of cultural education programs offered through tribal channels. Classes like these reflect the Confederated Tribes' commitment to passing traditional knowledge and cultural practices to the next generation.

For the latest tribal events, news, and community resources, tune in to KWSO 91.9 FM or visit kwso.org.