Leslie Bill, representing the Confederated Tribes of the Warm Springs Reservation of Oregon, was elected as chairman of the four-tribe commission for a one-year term, replacing Robert Taylor (Nez Perce).

"We all stand in memorial to those who have gone before us, just as they stood in memorial of those who had gone before them," said Bill. "Today I stand where a long line of great tribal leaders have once stood and it brings me great honor to serve as the chairman of the Columbia River Inter-Tribal Fish Commission."

Bill has served on the Commission since he was elected to the Warm Spring Tribe's off-reservation Fish and Wildlife Committee in 2004. Prior to serving on that committee, Bill served on the Warm Springs Tribe's on-reservation Fish and Wildlife Committee from 2001 to 2004. He is actively involved in carrying on the traditions and culture of his tribe—a culture that guides his actions and outlook. "I remember standing in the dance line at the longhouse during Sunday services and being reminded that we should treat the land like we treat our own relatives," recounts Bill.

Fidelia Andy, representing the Yakama Nation, was elected vice-chair; Brooklyn Baptiste, representing the Nez Perce Tribe, was elected treasurer; and N. Kathryn Brigham, representing the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation, was elected secretary.

This is the first time in the commission's 30-year history that women have held two officer positions concurrently.
The election of Columbia River Inter-Tribal Fish Commission officers takes place annually, with the seats rotated among each of the four member tribes.

These new officers will be replacing the 2005-2006 officers: Robert Taylor (Nez Perce), chairman, Leslie Bill (Warm Springs), vice-chair, Jay Minthorn (Umatilla), treasurer.