[Congressional Record Volume 159, Number 31 (Tuesday, March 5, 2013)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E245]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




               HONORING THE LIFE OF CLARENCE ATWELL, JR.

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. DAVID G. VALADAO

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, March 5, 2013

  Mr. VALADAO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today, along with my colleague Mr. 
Costa, to pay tribute to the life of Clarence Atwell, Jr., who passed 
away on February 28, 2013 at the age of 67. Clarence served as Chief of 
the Tachi Yokut Tribe for 42 years. His leadership, guidance, and 
compassion will be greatly missed.
  Born in the early morning hours under a lone tree on the Rice Ranch, 
Clarence Atwell would grow to lead an extraordinary life. Raised by his 
grandmother on the reservation, Clarence spoke his native language of 
Tachi. It was only when he started grade school that he learned 
English. During his adolescent years, Clarence developed a strong 
passion for caring for the tribal elders. He would spend days hunting 
for food, sometimes walking several miles to bring home rabbit, deer, 
and fish for the elders. His love of the land grew as he became a young 
man, and Clarence worked in the fields from sunup to well beyond 
sundown each day.
  Strongly connected to his tribe, Chief Atwell was first elected 
Tribal Chairman in his early 20s and would go on to hold the position 
for over 40 years. The Tachi Yokut Tribe prospered under the powerful 
and wise Tribal Leadership of Chief Atwell. For many years, the members 
worked hard to achieve self-sufficiency by expanding Tachi Palace in 
Lemoore from a small gaming facility into one of the San Joaquin 
Valley's top destinations. Partially due to his efforts, tribal members 
now have access to secure housing, the elders receive lunch each day, 
and the members have dental and medical care.
  Acknowledged by Kings County, California as an official Spiritual 
Leader, Chief Atwell was renowned for his spiritual guidance and 
performed countless life-changing ceremonies, including weddings, 
baptisms, and funerals. Chief Atwell was a Bear Clan Leader for 
California, one of the highest native spiritual honors afforded to 
individuals. The Bears were part of the official inauguration ceremony 
of then-California Lt. Governor Cruz Bustamante where they performed in 
full regalia at the State's Capitol.
  Chief Atwell advised many political leaders, having had the 
distinction of meeting Vice President Al Gore and President Bill 
Clinton. Chief Atwell was known for his candor and forthrightness, 
though always in a quiet and polite manner. Tribes across the country 
could count on Chief Atwell for his political savvy, keen knowledge, 
and intense wisdom.
  Clarence leaves behind his wife, Jeanette, and children: Kimberly, 
Cheryl, Curtis, Aubrey, and Rufus; as well as many grandchildren, great 
grandchildren, nieces and nephews.
  Mr. Speaker, it is with great respect that Mr. Costa and I ask our 
colleagues in the House of Representatives to pay tribute to the life 
and service of Clarence Atwell, Jr. His advice and leadership will be 
missed by many, but his spirit will surely live on in the Tachi Yokut 
Tribe.

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