The Council • Page  Non-profit Organization U.S. Postage PAID Anchorage, AK Permit No. 537

Dena’ Nena’ Henash Our Land Speaks

Vol. 31, No. 3 A Report to the Member Tribes of the Tanana Chiefs Conference April 2006

Tanana Chiefs Conference Salutes Harold “Buddy” Brown and Welcomes Jerry Isaac he Tanana Chiefs Conference 2006 Convention was a time to honor Tanana Chiefs Conference welcomes Jerry Isaac as our new President. We look Harold “Buddy” Brown for his four years of service as TCC President. forward to the next few years under Jerry’s leadership. Here is a letter from Jerry that T He has accomplished much at his young age, not only as our region’s leader expresses his goals and wishes for TCC. but as a role model for many. Buddy first began working at TCC in May 1996 as a s I begin my fifth week on the job as Tanana Chiefs Conference (TCC) legal intern during his summer break from the University of New Mexico School President, I continue to be humbled by the honor you have bestowed upon of Law. He became associate legal counsel in 1997, followed by general counsel in Ame. I vow to you that I will do the best job I can and will work with you March 1999, and TCC president in March 2002. in order to improve the lives of our people. In the next two years, I will focus on the issues that impact our region and will share my goals with you. I want to look at the issues that impact the entire TCC region, but also take a look at the internal workings of TCC. Today, I want to share Newly-elected President, Jerry Isaac, addresses TCC with you my vision for the Convention delegates and guests, his family at his side. future of the region. Former President, Harold “Buddy” Brown, speaks at the Chena River Convention As I stood before you at the 2006 TCC Convention, I shared my dream. My vision Center, with members of the Doyon, Limited Board of Directors behind him. includes helping our people to become free from poverty and uncertainty and to become self-sufficient in every way — breaking the shackles of socio-economic bondage Through his strong belief in balancing Native and Western values, he helped to and dependency on government funding, and rising up with such unlimited socio- successfully bring Tanana Chiefs Conference into the new millennium. He worked economic force that it shall command due respect for our people. I want for us to be able tirelessly and humbly to promote the well-being of our Tribes while also supporting to say, “Sovereignty from our new-found strength built through self-sufficiency.” employee efforts. From being a down-to-earth Huslia Hustler to leading an $80 million organization and raising a young family with his wife Patti, Buddy We have the highest rate of educational drop outs, unemployment, dependence on represented the Native community fairly and with respect. public assistance, substance abuse and suicides. If we are doing so well, why are these problems still so significant? How do we get to the place of self-sufficiency? This vision Throughout the convention and potlatch, Buddy and his family were honored of self-reliance is the key that shall extricate our people from the continued headache of for their sacrifices and service through many words of appreciation. For his loyalty falling short and being counted last. However, much work — difficult work — awaits and dedication, gifts were offered to give tribute. Buddy’s Mom, Gertie Esmailka us. To achieve this dream shall require the efforts of each of us. We will need: and sister, Sheila, were present to support him, as were Patti and their two children, Xavier and Alana. 1. Cooperation – To find ways to effectively work together. 2. Partnership – To join each other, hand-in-hand, to move forward. During his four years, Buddy not only focused on the many issues affecting our 3. Planning – So that individually, as families, as communities, as sub-regions Tribes, but also on developing TCC infrastructure through reorganizing departments, and as a region, we can achieve social, political and economic independence. creating consistent policies and procedures, and issuing annual employee pay 4. Respect – As we may find ourselves at odds with one another, we still will increases based on performance and accountability. need to agree to disagree and not dishonor one another. Tanana Chiefs Conference would like to wish him and his family the best; we Our differences constantly defeat us; we defeat ourselves. Let’s help each other. In will keep him in our prayers and will continue to honor him for his work. doing so, I pledge that I shall work with all interest groups in our region. In our search Anaa Baasee’. for resolutions to our problems, we must tap all available human resources, such as Elders, youth, Tribal leaders, and those committed to the vision of self-sufficiency. We shall forge a new direction for our people. I am aware of the real and serious fiscal issues that are facing us today. I am aware that our ideas and strategies to push forward will test our strength, understanding, Election Results patience, tolerance and resolve. With our awareness of our surroundings, we must TCC Executive Board Officer Seats craft our own agendas of planned approaches to overcome the challenges. From the banks of our rivers and streams, from our hills and mountains, from our trap lines President and Chairman: 2-year remainder term (2006-2008) and fish camps, from our villages and our homes, we must set out to revitalize the Jerry Isaac, Tanacross dormant, untapped strength and vitality of the spirit of our people. Vice President: 1-year term (2006-2007) Secretary/Treasurer: 3-year term (2006-09) Let the direct command of our forebears prevail once more! Survival of our Shirley Lee, Evansville/Fairbanks Pat McCarty, Ruby people, at all costs, through calculated adaptation to the present-day lifestyle, guided by our past. And from the sacred and hallowed valleys of our countryside, from the TCC Executive Board Members shores of our lakes and the sacred beat of our drums, let it be known that there is a Lower Yukon Subregion: 3-year term Upper Tanana Subregion: 2-year term new meaning to these very words: “WE SHALL SURVIVE!” Carl Jerue, Anvik Danny Adams, Tetlin See pages 6 and 7 for TCC Convention photos. Upper Kuskokwim Subregion: 3-year term Yukon Tanana Sub.: 1-yr remainder term Interior Athabascan Tribal College Board of Trustees Tony Alexia, Nikolai Julie M. Roberts-Hyslop, Tanana Lower Yukon Subregion: 3-year term Yukon Koyukuk Subregion: 3-year term William Painter, Grayling Orville H. Huntington, Huslia TCC Regional Health Board Member Seats Yukon-Tanana Subregion: 3-year term (2006-2009) IRHA Board of Commissioners Andrew Jimmie, Minto Seat A: 3-year term (2006-2009) Seat B: 3-year term (2006-2009) Henry Deacon, Grayling Teisha Simmons, Fairbanks TCC Education Council Yukon Flats Subregion: 3-year term Yukon Koyukuk Subregion: 3-year term AFN Village Representative S. Roxanne Knudson, Fort Yukon Josie Dayton, Koyukuk 1-year term (2006-2007) — Steve Ginnis Page  • The Council • April 2006 APPLAUSE

Miss Nika’ghun, Nicole Gregory, Expresses Thanks Youth Delegates Give Thanks My name is Nicole R. Gregory, the new Miss Nika’ghun. I would like to say The Denakkanaaga Board of Directors and Tanana Chiefs Conference Youth thank you very much for putting on such a wonderful pageant. This was my first Council would like to thank Fred Meyer for the generous donation to the Youth and time in a pageant and I thought it was a successful one. I’d like to thank fellow Elder Lunch held on March 13, 2006. Thank you, Fred Meyer! contestants Grace Stickman and Leslie Ambrose. They were awesome and you We’d also like to give our thanks and gratitude to Doyon, Limited for the use of both did a wonderful job. the Chief’s Court for the luncheon. The Elders shared their values and inspired the I encourage all young ladies to get involved as I hope to pass the crown on to youth; therefore the youth honored our tradition by serving the Elders. The youth one of you next year. I’d like to thank Erica Cleaver for the use of her beautiful hand publicly thanked the Elders and voiced their appreciation for the time they were beaded dress, Maryann Patsy for her beaded slippers, my aunt Josephine Malemute given. Thank you so much! for sponsoring me in the pageant, and Gloria Patsy for all her hospitality and a spare Thank you to the Regency and the Farthest North Girl Scouts for the use of room. Thanks to all volunteers and sponsors for putting on such a wonderful event. rooms in your buildings. You did a great job, and thanks for taking time away from your weekend to take part A special thank you to Orie Williams, President of Doyon, Limited, for taking in the pageant. I hope that I fill the big shoes left behind by Donna Demoski and the Youth Council members to lunch at Pizza Hut and for sharing your knowledge do a good job representing you at WEIO. I’d like to thank the whole community on leadership and the history of Doyon! of Nulato for having such a fun-filled Spring Carnival and for giving me the best Thank you to all of the speakers for volunteering your time and knowledge to hospitality, all my competitors in the snowshoe race, dog race, and my Uncle Carlson the success of the Annual Youth Convention. for letting me use his dogs in the dog race. Thanks to all, from the TCC Youth Council and Denakkanaaga Board of Directors! We appreciate your support in continuing our tradition of bringing A Heartfelt Thank You & Deep Appreciation together our Alaska Native youth and Elders! To all that have contributed in many ways to the search and ultimate finding of Jesse: the donations, work, prayers, fund-raisers, family unity, companionship, friendship, advice, dedication, expressions of concern, overwhelming compassion and love have helped in such a way that we can only say we love you all and thank you. The communities, villages, organizations, friends, relatives and all of you that helped during this time, we keep you in our hearts and in our prayers. God bless you all. Orville, Anna and Flora Huntington The Huntington and Demientieff families Pictured left to right: Elizabeth Howard, McGrath; Shawna Sam, Tetlin; Phillip Powerful Healers: Prayer and Family Demientieff, Holy Cross; Candace Peterson, Circle; Kimberly Wortman, McGrath; Dear Editor, Heather Dozette, Ruby; Heather Felix, Tok; Amanda Goods, Takotna; Kelsey Jackson, Huslia; Megan Smith, Minto; Jonathan Henzie, Allakaket; Blanche Demientieff, I would like to thank my family and friends for their prayers and support. Holy Cross, and Brian John, Arctic Village. My Auntie, cousin and a couple of my sisters took turns being with me when I was in I.C.U. in the Fairbanks Memorial Hospital. A couple of my sisters dropped Appreciation to All Who Donated Their Time, Energy everything to be with me. They have jobs and their own families. What I’m trying to say is that my family could be truly amazing sometimes. I was never left alone, and Resources to the Beatus Family my family was always at my side. I’m pretty sure prayer is powerful because I’m still The Beatus Family would like to thank you for your time, energy and resources here. Thank you. that you donated for the late Norman Beatus and his family. The love and strength we Jennie M. Pitka drew from the community helped us to get through our loss. At the funeral potlatch, his father, Henry Beatus Sr. said, “The people held us up.” This is true. Without Powerful Healers: Prayer and Family the support of the community, we would have never been able to get through it. Dear Editor, We are truly thankful for everything. So many people and organizations donated I would like to share with you and our readers an incident during our annual their resources and it is difficult to name them all. Amongst the contributors we meeting. My 93-year-old mother attended with other patients from Denali Center. would like to recognize Doyon Drilling Inc., Interior Regional Housing Authority, My sister and I took her back as the other patients were not ready to leave. We took Tanana Chiefs Conference and Doyon, Limited; Peter Captain, Jr. for planning mom to my car in her wheelchair and it was very slippery. Mom couldn’t get her the fundraiser and helping with the funeral; Pike’s Landing (Jeffrey Brooks), footing. My sister and I tried to get her in the car. There were others watching and a Pike’s Waterfront Lodge and Warbelow’s for all donated items. Finally, thank you young man returning to the meeting saw we needed help. He gently lifted my mom to Kathy Moses and Morris Lynus for lending their home as the gathering place into the car. I want to thank this young man, although belated. His name is Rondell for friends and family. We will always remember this and will continue to support Jimmie, Annie Titus’ grandson. Thank you, Rondell. these organizations, businesses and people. We never imagined that so many were Irene E. Roberts willing to contribute. As a result, we will always remind ourselves how lucky we are to be part of this community. We love you all, and God bless, The Beatus Family

Many Contribute to Search and Rescue Efforts The Huslia Search and Rescue and Community of Huslia would like to extend The Council is a monthly report to the member tribes of the Tanana Chiefs their heartfelt gratitude to all who donated and contributed in our search at Huslia Conference, in accordance with agreements with the Bureau of Indian Affairs for the late Jesse Demientieff. Without your help and support it would have been and the Indian Health Service. Letters to the editor, other written contributions so much more difficult. We would like to thank everyone for volunteering their time and photo submissions are welcome. However, space is limited and program and efforts in this search. oriented news has priority. TCC reserves the right to edit or reject material. Letters We have received donations from Hughes, Ruby, Grayling Search and and opinions are not necessarily the opinions of Tanana Chiefs Conference. Rescue, MTNT Ltd., IRHA, Nulato, Galena, Fairbanks, Anchorage, Koyukuk, Material submitted anonymously will not be published. Contributions and questions may be directed to: Huslia, Huslia Huslers Sports Association, Alaska State Troopers, and people from the Lower 48. There are many names to these donations. We are truly honored The Council and thankful for the donations. (vacant), Editor Tanana Chiefs Conference Also a huge thank you goes out to the Search and Rescue Teams from Huslia, 122 First Avenue, Suite 600 Selawik, Kobuk, Ambler, Shungnak, Koyukuk, Galena, Allakaket, Hughes and Fairbanks, AK 99701 Tanana. The pilots that flew were Civil Air Patrol, Alaska State Troopers, Eielson Phone: (907) 452-8251, ext. 3227 AFB Search and Rescue, Fish and Wildlife, Don Ernst, Roger Huntington and the Toll-free within Alaska: C1-30. We thank you! 1-800-478-6822, ext. 3227 Words cannot express the gratitude and respect we feel for the Shungnak Toll-free from outside Alaska: and Ambler Search and Rescue for finding the late Jesse Demientiev. After 1-800-770-8251, ext. 3227 34 days, the family and community were able to put her body to rest. Fax: (907) 459-3851 Sincerely, E-mail: [email protected] Hudson T. Sam, Sr. President of Huslia Search and Rescue Subregional Offices Letters continued on page 3 Yukon Koyukuk Upper Kuskokwim Yukon Tanana P. O. Box 92 P. O. Box 169 1302 21st Avenue Galena, AK 99741 McGrath, AK 99627 Fairbanks, AK 99701 In This Issue (907) 656-1326 (907) 524-3005 (907) 459-3930 Tanana Chiefs Conference, Letters...... 1-3, 6, 7 Business Development...... 3 Upper Tanana Lower Yukon Yukon Flats Tribal Development...... 4 P. O. Box 129 P. O. Box 190 P. O. Box 304 Client Development...... 5, 8 Tok, AK 99780 Holy Cross, AK 99602 Ft. Yukon, AK 99740 Health Services...... 9-11 (907) 883-5181 (907) 476-7137 (907) 662-2556 News for Our People...... 12 April 2006 • The Council • Page  BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT TCC Business Development Center Offers Business Financing and Technical Assistance Information for Entrepreneurs

The TCC Business Development Center (BDC) Required Documentation: Application for business credit isis dedicateddedicated toto improvingimproving economiceconomic growthgrowth inin AlaskaAlaska • • Business plan and financial projections by expanding lending opportunities • Current financial statement available to small businesses. • Tax returns: 3 years - personal and business The BDC provides capital to small businesses, • Income verification which, in turn,turn, will improve economic growth • Year-to-date income statement for business by creating and maintaining jobs. • Bank denial letter • Credit report fee of $12.50 paid in advance Proof of collateral to secure the loan Who Can Apply? How Can Funds Be Spent? • • Proof of insurance on collateral • Business owners • Equipment • Partnerships • Inventory • Corporations • Commercial real estate Consulting and Technical Assistance: • Native Tribes • Working capital • Preparing loan proposals • Start-up capital • Developing business plans • General management • Financial planning Loan Fund Descriptions: • Procurement contracting The Denji Loan Fund is for any business located in rural Alaska • Accounting procedures villages with populations of fewer than 25,000. Funding originates with the • Start-up business skills Intermediary Relending Program (IRP), which is administered by the Rural • Marketing Development Division of the U.S. Department of Agriculture. The Revolving Loan Fund is for any business located within the Contact Info: Fairbanks North Star Borough (FNSB). This fund is made possible by the 122 First Avenue, Suite 202A Economic Development Administration, an agency of the U.S. Department Fairbanks, AK 99701 of Commerce. Ph: (907) 452-8251 http://www.tccbusinessdevelopment.com LOAN TERMS Cassy Bartch, Business Analyst DENJI (Rural) RLF (FNSB) [email protected] or ext. 3084 Loan Amount Up to 75% of project post Up to 85% of project post Pat Church, Loan Officer/Business Analyst [email protected] or ext. 3278 Range $1,000-250,000 $1,000-50,000 Term* 1 - 15 years 1 - 15 years Do I have What it Takes Interest Rate** 2% above prime 2% above prime to be an Entrepreneur? Commitment Fee 2% of loan 2% of loan First and foremost is a sound Starting a business does not Borrower’s business concept. Other necessary require: Contribution*** 25% of project cost 15% of project cost qualities include: • A brilliant idea *Depending on the project • Willingness to work hard • Lots of money **Subject to change • Self-discipline • A college education • Motivation Reprinted from the State of Alaska’s ***Applicant is required to provide, in the form of new equity, a percentage • Ability to get along with all Web site at http://www.state.ak.us/local/ of the total project cost. kinds of people. bus1.shtml

applause Community Development Block Grant for Indian Tribes and Kindness Appreciated Alaska Native Villages We would like to thank everyone who helped us when our brother Morris went Deadline: May 31, 2006 to be with Jesus on October 30, 2005. Thank you Pat M., Hazel and Art for the many Award Ceiling: $500,000 things you’ve done for him in the past year; taking such good care of him. Grant can be used for: economic development projects, housing Thank you, Peter Captain, Jr. for all you did for us. I don’t know what we would rehabilitation, land acquisition for housing purposes, comprehensive have done without you. planning, clearance/demolition, housing code enforcement, energy To all those who visited and brought him special food — thank you Judy, efficiency, and removal of architectural barriers (handicap access). Deanna, Hazel, Raelene and others. Please know that he appreciated your love Contact the TCC Grant Writing office for more information at ext. 3276. and kindness. Thank you Dick Evans and Chunky Evans for what you did for us when the plane could not land in Ruby on the night of November 5th. Thank you Hazel Roberts, Isabelle Olin and Virginia McCarty for sleeping in his room the last week before he left us. Letter to the Editor Thank you Judy Rosander for your visits, kind words about Morris and the delicious stew you brought to his room for our family while we were all at his bedside. Alaska’s Prisoners You are sweet and kind. Dear Editor, Thank you Allen M., Billy and Deedee for the beautiful casket you built. Although Alaska Natives make up 12% to 15% of the general population, they Thank you to those dear women who lined the casket and to those who shopped make-up 30% to 40% of the prisoners incarcerated in Alaska’s prisons. in Fairbanks for needed items. To those who so lovingly sewed on the slippers, thank Do you know what is happening to Alaska’s prisoners? Are you aware that Alaska’s you, you’ve all been kind. “corrections” system has utterly failed to rehabilitate, educate or even protect prisoners? Words cannot fully convey our heartfelt appreciation so we will just say, thanks Alaska’s Natives are losing their investment in democracy through the systematic denial again to everyone for all you did. It helped hold us up with strength and comfort in of the right to vote to those citizens under state supervision. our time of sorrow. Visit http://www.prisoners.org and find out what is happening to your loved ones May God bless and keep His loving hand on you with good health and happiness imprisoned or supervised under Alaska’s “correctional” system. in the new year. Thank you, Sincerely, Mel Edwin Clara Honea for McCarty Family Florence, AZ Page  • The Council • April 2006 TRIBAL DEVELOPMENT Are High Energy Costs a Problem in Your Community?

If you answered “yes,” there are two sources of funding that you should be aware of: one is state funded and the other is a federal grant through USDA.

The first one is the Small Municipality The second energy funding program Energy Assistance Program through that your community should be 1 the Alaska Division of Community 2 aware of is the USDA/Rural Utilities Advocacy (www.commerce.state. Service – Assistance to High Energy ak.us/dca/energy_assist.htm). Cost Rural Communities.

To be eligible, your community must be classified as a home rule, Grant requests can be up to $5,000,000 under this program. Grant first class or second class city or borough and have a resident population funds may be used to acquire, construct, expand, upgrade or otherwise of fewer than 2,500 people. improve energy generation, transmission or distribution facilities A grant funded under this program must be used in the following serving communities in which the average residential expenditure for manner: home energy exceeds 275 percent of the national average. (For example: if fuel oil is above $3.35 per gallon or if electricity is over $0.239 per – First used to repay an indebtedness of the city or borough to the kilowatt hour in your community, you may qualify.) Bulk Fuel Revolving Loan administered by the Alaska Energy Authority All energy generation, transmission and distribution facilities and – Secondly used to repay any indebtedness of the city or borough equipment used to provide electricity, natural gas, home heating fuels, to a fuel company or fuel vendor. and other energy service to eligible communities are eligible. All projects – Used for the purchase of fuel by the city or borough. providing or improving energy services to eligible communities through Funding is available to pay for fuel purchases made by eligible on-grid and off-grid renewable energy projects, energy efficiency and municipalities between July 1, 2004 and June 30, 2005. energy conservation projects are eligible. DEADLINE: Eligible municipalities have until June 30, 2006 to submit Grant funds under this USDA program CANNOT be used for necessary paperwork to document the fuel purchase and the municipality’s preparation of the grant application, fuel purchases, routine maintenance budget for FY05 and FY03 Certified Financial Statement (CFS). or other operating costs. All documentation for fuel payment reimbursements or requests Last year the grant announcement was posted on May 25, so start for direct fuel vendor payments should be sent to the following: Small watching for it at the following website: http://www.rurdev.usda.gov/rd/ Municipality Energy Assistance Program, Division of Community nofas/index.html. The deadline to apply for this grant is usually the end Advocacy, Attn: Bill Rolfzen, Program Administrator, P.O. Box of July. 110809, Juneau, AK 99811, Phone: (907)465-4733. If you have questions regarding this program, you may contact Irene Catalone at If you have any questions, would like background information on this the Fairbanks Regional Office: 211 Cushman Street, Fairbanks, AK grant, or would like to be notified once this grant is announced, please feel 99701-4639; Phone: (907) 451-2748; Fax: (907) 451-2748; e-mail: free to contact TCC Grant Writer, Jennifer Maguire at 1-800-478-6822 or [email protected]. 452-8251, ext. 3276, or e-mail [email protected].

Mini-Grants Coming Soon The Alaska Division of Community Advocacy provides Examples of eligible business development or $30,000 (approximate) Mini-Grants to Alaskan communities for projects strategic plans include: that will improve the community economy in a significant and long lasting • Community priorities and strategic planning way. The deadline to submit proposals is usually around September of each • Business plans for an arts and crafts cooperative year, with applications becoming available in June. • Feasibility study for city or Tribal-owned hatchery Cities, non-profit Tribal governments (Tribal Councils), local non- profit organizations, and a borough or regional non-profit organization as a • Design plan for waterfront marine center sponsor on behalf of one or more of these communities are eligible to apply. Examples of INELIGIBLE project include: Distressed communities will receive priority funding consideration. • Erosion control Projects eligible for funding include: those which will generate new • Community clean-up income for the community, and those which will create permanent jobs • Local government operations or otherwise have the potential to improve the community economy in a significant and long lasting way. Business development or strategic planning • Maintenance/repair of public facilities projects are also eligible (community plans, business plans, marketing • Buying a boat for an individual to start his own guiding service analysis, community land use plans, design and engineering plans). • Simply paying individuals to work for a few months Examples of eligible projects include: Resolutions from the Tribal Council or city government must • Upgrade and enhance community recreational riverfront park with accompany all funding requests. installation of restroom facilities to accommodate more tourists All mini-grants are cost reimbursable, which means that if you receive and improve public health and safety. a mini-grant, you pay for expenditures with your own funds and are • Purchase equipment for a shellfish nursery operated by a community then reimbursed by check during the months after providing supporting non-profit. documentation of money spent. • Purchase crane for the city’s dock facility to encourage more efficient Now is the time to start thinking about how dock operations and new income for the city. your Tribe/community can best utilize these funds and prepare for the applications.

If you would like more information on this or any other grant program, please feel free to contact either of the grant writers at TCC: Jennifer Maguire, ext. 3276 or Dick Farris, ext. 3276. April 2006 • The Council • Page  CLIENT DEVELOPMENT Seeing is Believing By Karen Kallen-Brown, Infant Learning Program Coordinator They say that “seeing is believing,” but for infants and toddlers, seeing is the first bat at objects, gaze at their own hands, recognize their caregivers, and use vision way that children typically learn. If babies are held, looked at, and talked to often, to get attention or get a break from attention (making eye contact or looking they will seek out visual stimulation in typical home environments that will promote away). By four or five months, baby can see in three dimensions, tell colors, and healthy brain development in the vision center. see objects clearly up to four feet away. By six months, they can focus clearly at Healthy infants are born ready to focus on faces and they begin immediately to 11 feet and coordinate both eyes. By seven months, babies can coordinate their watch and learn from their parents’ faces. Dr. Brazelton, a pediatrician, has studied hand movements to their eye tracking and can enjoy games like peek-a-boo, finding infants extensively to unlock the keys to healthy childhood development. A healthy partially hidden objects, and banging toys together. By nine months, baby can look up, newborn baby can imitate some very simple mouth movements, if the parents move coordinate seeing to pick up small objects, and notice when people or toys disappear. slowly enough to allow the baby By one year, peripheral vision has developed (seeing to the sides even though focused They say that “seeing is believing,” to process what (s)he saw and on the object ahead) and vision is at least 20/200. By two years, vision should be at but for infants and toddlers, figure out how to imitate the least 20/60 and visual acuity (clearness) will continue to mature, with most children movement. This leads to healthy achieving “perfect” 20/20 vision between seven to nine years of age. seeing is the first way that vision development. Seeing The following could be red flags for vision problems and justify a visit to an children typically learn. means more than having healthy eye care professional and a referral to the Infant Learning Program for a visual eyes, it is being able to process screening and assessment of baby’s visual skills: images and take some meaning from them. Doing this requires that the optic nerve is • Eyes turn inwards or outwards or one is higher than the other eye well-developed so the retina of the eye is connected to the visual cortex of the brain. • Eyelids are frequently crusty or red This means that the image in the eye is sent to the brain in a way that the brain can • Eyes are in constant, rapid motion attach meaning to it. The critical period for brain-based vision development is in • Drooping eyelids (can interfere with vision) the first two years of life. Untreated vision problems can cause lifelong disabilities • Pupils (black centers of eyes) are different sizes or if they are not identified and treated early. react differently to light The optic nerve forms during the first trimester of pregnancy and continues • Excessive tearing, light sensitivity, or spasms of the eyelid to develop rapidly after birth. A newborn sees best at 8-15 inches, which is why • Little eye contact with caregivers (after 3 months of age) babies learn best when they are held during feedings. (Their parent’s face is at • Lack of focusing on objects by 3 months of age that distance, so they can watch and learn from their parent’s facial movements.) • Covers or closes one eye when looking at objects Vision skills change quickly. By one month, the baby can focus on an object for • Tilts head or thrusts head forward to see objects a full minute, blink at approaching objects, and close their eyelids in response to • Frowns or squints when looking at objects bright light. By two months, the baby can track objects side-to-side for a full 180 • Stumbles over objects degrees, enjoy following moving objects, smile in response to a smiling face, and • Frequently rubs eyes (not only when tired) tell the difference between photos and real faces. By three months, babies will • Trouble accurately reaching for objects by 6 months of age

Helping Young Children with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD) By Karen Kallen-Brown, TCC Infant Learning Program No mother ever drinks to harm her When they don’t (because they can’t), the may become fearful and anxious and may stressed and overwhelmed because baby, but some babies are harmed because other children and adults around them seek ways to avoid stressful situations. children with FAS need more supervision their mothers drink alcohol during often get frustrated and respond in ways This can lead to running away after and have trouble with routine skills, like pregnancy, often before the women even that make children with FASD have an experiencing trouble at home, school, sleeping. If parents do not understand know they are pregnant. These babies, even harder time. Understanding what and the community. These big problems their child, they are more likely to get like all babies, need consistent and is different about these young children do not develop when children are angry and not help their child manage nurturing care. To get that, their mothers can help adults know how to help them diagnosed early and supported. these difficulties. need a lot of support, so they can grow grow into successful adults. Children with FASD experience If you care for a child 0-36 months to love and help these special babies by Research shows that early diagnosis delays in their development. They old who may have experienced prenatal making healthy choices and learning of FASD helps increase the likelihood of often have difficulty with memory. alcohol exposure, or is showing some appropriate parenting skills. success for these children because they They tend to think slowly and have of the challenging behaviors for Children with the full Fetal Alcohol get the help they need. Children with a slow auditory pace (so they may other reasons, your Infant Learning Syndrome diagnosis look a bit different, FASD who are not diagnosed early are only hear and understand some of the Program can help you learn to help so people do special things to help them. more likely to experience failure because words spoken to them). In general, they your child overcome these challenges. They can see that these children need their needs are not met, their frustration often have difficulty processing sensory Feel free to call with other questions something different. However, most becomes overwhelming, and they act out information (sight, sound, smell, taste, about young children’s development babies born with fetal alcohol exposure in ways that cause stress and problems touch, movement, and deep muscle and and behaviors. TCC Infant Learning look like normal babies. This makes for their families and communities. joint pressure), so they act impulsively Program is here to help your infants them at greater risk because their special Some of these ways are having tantrums, and are easily distracted. They may need and toddlers. For assistance please call needs are not recognizable and people being irritable, feeling angry, and acting to climb, jump, swing or rock constantly. 1-800-478-6822, ext. 3176. expect them to act like typical children. aggressively. Without help, these children Parents can easily become exhausted,

TCC Head Start Policy Council Hard at Work by Brenda Krupa, TCC Child Development Program Director The TCC Head Start Policy Council met at the Springhill Suites in Fairbanks March 13-15, during the week of the TCC Convention. For the first two days, these Head Start parents and community members were trained in many areas of the program, under the functions of Education, Health and Safety, Family Services, and Governance. Policy Council members reviewed and approved the curriculum Head Start uses in the classroom and on home visits. They also prepared for an upcoming federal review and were introduced to the tools used to determine program compliance. The session that brought smiles to the parents though, was when Mary Fricilone, Sue Barrett, and Angie Richardson did a NikeGO presentation; everyone got up and wiggled. NikeGO is a program that incorporates movement through music in preschool programs. On the final day, the Policy Council held their monthly meeting. They had 10 hires to approve, along with the formation of two committees: Budget, and Policies and Procedures. TCC Head Start Policy Council: back row, left to right: Doreen David, Huslia; Michael Williams, Allakaket; Nola Vienup, Holy The TCC Head Start Policy Council has an elected member from each community Head Start serves. Cross; Donna Esmailka, Kaltag; Anne Esmailka, Kaltag; Susan Community representatives are also selected in many sites. Policy Council members are brought in based Kauffman, Nenana. Front row, left to right: Norma Williams, on participation in the monthly teleconference calls. The TCC Head Start Policy Council members and Ruby; Dawn Magnuson, McGrath; Ada Albert, Tanana; Phyllis community representatives serve on a volunteer basis and provide direction and support in the pursuit Erhart, Chair, Tanana; Randy Pitka, Nulato. of a quality early childhood program. Client Development continued on page 8 Page  • The Council • April 2006 TANANA CHIEFS CONFERENCE

ABOVE: Allakaket Singers led by Travis Cole; TOP RIGHT: Youth Delegate, Heather Felix; BELOW LEFT: Grandma and Grandpa, Agnes Moore and Alex Solomon; BELOW CENTER: Praying Baby, Alana Brown; BELOW RIGHT, TOP: Smiling Boys, William Frank and Keel Simon; BELOW RIGHT BOTTOM: Ethan and Aaron Schutt.

ABOVE, TOP LEFT: President Jerry Isaac and Buddy Brown; ABOVE TOP RIGHT: Another Packed Day; ABOVE CENTER RIGHT: Ted Charles, Mike Stevens, Bentley Mark and Gerald Albert; ABOVE: Standing Ovation for Buddy. April 2006 • The Council • Page  TANANA CHIEFS CONFERENCE

ABOVE: Steve Ginnis, Traditional Chief David Salmon, Patricia Salmon, Isabelle Salmon and Representative Woodie Salmon; ABOVE RIGHT: Senator Albert Kookesh, right, and Craig Fleener; RIGHT: Representative Woodie Salmon.

ABOVE: Grandmas, Alda Frank and Angela Huntington; ABOVE CENTER: Georgianna Lincoln and Grandma Bertha Moses; ABOVE RIGHT: Pretty Ladies, Dawn Jonathon and Elizabeth Webb; RIGHT: Strong Women, Oline Petruska, Kathy Ipalook and, FAR RIGHT, Susan Butcher; BELOW: Smiling Ladies, Edith Szmyd, Winnie Atwood, Doris Szmyd, and others, all from Nenana.

ABOVE, TOP LEFT: Leo Lolnitz, Fred Alexie, Peter Captain Sr., Pat McCarty and William Derendoff; ABOVE, CENTER: Little Native Doll, Teionna Wiehl; ABOVE, RIGHT: Tanana Dancers, Mike Wiehl, Raymond Hyslop, T’sood Peter and Dawn Starr; ABOVE, RIGHT CENTER: Pat Smith (Minto), Steve Kakaruk (FNA) and Gilbert Vent; ABOVE LEFT: Gabe Nicholi, Christian Elswick and Elizabeth Benjamin; ABOVE RIGHT: Julie Roberts, Will Bredeman-Woods, Tamara Vanderpool, Christine Vent, Thomas Wiehl, Phillip Demientieff.

TCC Delegates and Full Board of Directors Meeting March 14-16, 2006 • Chena River Convention Center • Fairbanks, Alaska Page  • The Council • April 2006 CLIENT DEVELOPMENT TCC Education Department Higher Education/Adult Vocational Training Program Overview Higher Education (HE) - Provides direct services (funding and To be eligible for AVT funds, Tribal members must be: technical expertise) to eligible Tribal members in attendance at accredited univer- • Residents of one of the villages listed at left or of Fairbanks. sities or colleges in Alaska and the Lower 48. Tribal members enrolled to the Tanana Chiefs Conference (TCC) Region villages of Birch Creek, Huslia, Minto, • Enrolled as full-time students receiving 12 credits or more. Nenana, Nikolai, Rampart, and Tetlin, and Tribal members who are enrolled to • One fourth degree or more of Native blood unless Tribally enrolled to a Doyon, Limited as at-large shareholders are eligible to apply to the central BIA recognized Tribe. TCC education office in Fairbanks. At-large shareholders of Doyon, Limited must have one fourth (¼) degree or more of Native blood. • Enrolled in a BIA recognized Tribe. Adult Vocational Training (AVT) - Provides direct services • In financial need as determined by the school’s financial aid office after (funding consideration and technical assistance) to eligible Tribal members review of student file for the amounts of grants, scholarships, personal who have been accepted by accredited vocational training schools in Alaska and the and family contributions that the student(s) received for the school year. Lower 48. Tribal members residing in six TCC Region villages — Birch Creek, Because of the high cost of adult vocational education, TCC will not fully Huslia, Minto, Nikolai, Rampart, Tetlin — and the city of Fairbanks are eligible to fund any AVT student. Amounts of grant disbursements are figured on a apply to the central TCC education office in Fairbanks for funding consideration case-by-case basis, depending on the cost and length of training and on and technical assistance. the amount of other financial resources available to the student. All HE and AVT applications must be submitted to: DEADLINES!!!Tanana Chiefs Conference • Education Department • 122 First Avenue, Suite 600 • Fairbanks, AK 99701 By: April 30th ~ Fall Deadline • November 15th ~ Spring Deadline

Interviews with Young Successful Community Members Stacey Demoski Ashley Wallace Stacey Demoski earned a certificate for completing In February 2006, Ashley Wallace completed a two- the Law Enforcement Academy training at the year program in Instrumentation/Industrial Automation University of Alaska Fairbanks/Tanana Valley Campus. Technology at the Perry Technical Institute in Yakima, Stacey is the daughter of Stanley Demoski and Judy Demoski Washington. Ashley’s parents are Greg and Georjeana both of Nulato. Her grandparents are Mary Amelia Demoski Wallace, both of Tanana. and the late Andrew Demoski, Sr. of Nulato and Franklin Madros, Sr. and the late Anna Madros of Kaltag. Why did you choose your field of study? Why did you choose the Law Enforcement Academy I chose Instrumentation/Industrial Automation Technology training as your field of study? because I knew that eventually a lot of good paying and stable jobs would be available on the North Slope. It’s interesting, active, and it’s something that is not boring. It’s not the same thing every day. After I’m finished being a security How did you handle the transition from Alaska to Washington? What officer I would like to be a police officer in Fairbanks. difficulties did you face during this transition, if any? What courses did you enjoy the most and the least? It was really hard at first because I was leaving a place where I knew everyone and I liked all the classes; they were fun. There is a lot of information to learn in 12 short moving to a place where I did not know anyone. But it got better after I met a weeks. When I started, I was not interested in being a cop, and only wanted to be few people and found things to occupy my time with. hired by Doyon Security. However, after the first week of class, I was like, “Yeah, I Why did you choose the Perry Technical Institute? want to be a cop.” I think it’s a job that you take pride in. I like helping people and I chose Perry Technical Institute because of its reputation. It’s considered the best in a way I will be. I know a lot of people dislike cops, but, hey, I like it and maybe instrumentation program on the West Coast. I’ll make a difference. Who knows? What were the highlights of your training? You received excellent grades at Perry Technical Institute. How were you able to do that? What was your daily schedule like? We had an awesome class that accomplished every task given. We pushed each other daily and made sure that we all went to class. The 9th session included a great bunch I was able to do that because I have an excellent math background. I listened more of people; when compared to the others, our combined GPA was the highest. That than I talked in class and did not procrastinate. My daily schedule was going to had a lot to do with challenging each other and driving our instructors crazy with school in the morning, getting out and going to work. questions. How has the financial assistance that you received from TCC helped you You received excellent grades at UAF. How were you able to do that? What was your achieve your educational goals? daily schedule like? It allowed me to keep my mind off the financial stress so that I could focus Basically, I was into it, so it was easy. The majority of the classes were interesting, very few completely on school. were boring but that’s where coffee helped. I went to class Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. The last hour of class was reserved for physical training (PT). What is the job market for clients who have received a certificate in instrumentation? How has the financial assistance that you received from TCC helped you achieve your educational goals? Twelve out of 16 people in my class had jobs before they graduated, and the other four had job prospects. I believe the job market will be better in the future because a I didn’t have to get a job while I was in school. That would have been hard because I was taking 16 credits. You can’t get unemployment either, if you’re a full-time student. lot of the baby boomers are about to retire and the companies will be looking Being a full-time student and working part-time doesn’t sound fun. So thank you, for young people, fresh out of school to take their places. TCC, for your assistance. What are your plans now? What is the job market for clients who have received a certificate from the Law I’m waiting to go to work for ConocoPhillips right now. I’ll probably live in Fairbanks Enforcement Academy? for a while, then eventually move back to Tanana and build my home. There were a lot of students in my class that were hired by Doyon Universal Services, Do you have any suggestions for new students? and others were hired by police departments. Rural police departments are always hiring. In class, there were a lot of job options. I never saw the light until I was already at the end of the tunnel, so even though you don’t see it, doesn’t mean it’s not there. Even though it seems hard and you What are your plans now? really want to go home, stick it through because the sky’s the limit when you I’m currently working for Doyon at Pump Station #4. I plan on working for them for have an education. one to two years. My certificate expires in three years, so after Doyon, I want to be a police officer for either the City of Fairbanks or airport police. Both interviews were conducted by Audrey George at TCC. For further information on Do you have any suggestions for new students? these programs or educational assistance offered through TCC, please e-mail Audrey at [email protected], or call her toll-free at 1-800-478-6822, ext. 3184. Stick with it. Doyon offers a scholarship that covers the entire academy. I don’t like filling out paperwork, but I stuck with it and here I am working for them. Take advantage of what is offered to you. There are so many different scholarships out there that will help you. Be yourself and push yourself beyond your limits. denakkanaaga While I was in the Academy and after I finished, a lot of people told me that I don’t Elder & Youth Conference have the demeanor to be a cop. That didn’t stop me and it won’t; I will be a cop. Here’s a quote that I try to live by: “To laugh often and much...to win the respect “Elders Have the Wisdom, Youth Carry the Torch” of intelligent people and the affection of children...to leave the world a better place... June 5-9, 2006 to know even one life has breathed easier because you have lived. This is Koyukuk, Alaska to have succeeded.” — Ralph Waldo Emerson April 2006 • The Council • Page  HEALTH SERVICES Chief Andrew Isaac Health Center Primary Care Provider and Primary Care Team By Jim Kohler, Director, Chief Andrew Isaac Health Center The reorganization of medical and nursing staff into the three Primary Care Teams for TCC/Chief Andrew Isaac Health Center (CIAHC) is complete; the physical relocation of the staff into three distinct teams is well underway and will be completed within the next couple of weeks. Frequently Asked Questions 1. Why are the Primary Care Teams (PCTs) being set-up? 7. If I live in a village, do I have a choice? The redesign of our medical services structure is focused on you, our patient, and how Yes, all village residents have the same options for selecting a Primary Care Provider. we can individualize our services to meet your needs. The doctors of TCC / CAIHC However, not all providers can travel to all villages because it is not practical. feel strongly that they can provide better care when the same doctor develops Instead, physicians will be assigned villages to visit. a relationship with you, their patient; this allows for ‘continuity of provider’ from one visit to the next. The nursing staff is organized to be a member of the 8. How do I know where to go at CAIHC? PCT along with the team providers. Over time, your PCT will know you very well The two floors of CAIHC are now separated into ‘Specialty Services’ and ‘Family and will be able to focus their attention on your individual medical needs. Practice Services.’ In addition to the Primary Care Team areas, the 4th Floor continues to be Pharmacy and Registration. The 3rd Floor houses ‘Specialty 2. Are all patients going to be on a Primary Care Team? Services,’ which includes Gynecology and Obstetrics, Internal Medicine, Patients being seen at CAIHC and during Physician Village visits are being asked to Orthopedic PA-C, Diabetes and Nutrition Education, WIC, Contract Health designate a Primary Care Provider. Patients are asked, “Who is the doctor you Services, and the TCC Counseling Center. usually see at Chief Andrew Isaac Health Center? Which doctor do you want as your Primary Care Provider?” The first step for anyone needing medical services 9. Where do I go for a ‘Same Day Appointment?’ from TCC / CAIHC is to identify your Primary Care Provider. The ‘Same Day Appointments’ will be managed by each individual team; patients for ‘Same Day Appointments’ will check in on the 4th Floor and be seen in their 3. What if I only want to be seen for a ‘Same-Day Appointment’ or an Primary Care Team area. ‘Unscheduled Visit?’ In the team model at CAIHC as it is today, all of the medical services are aligned with 10. How many ‘Same-Day Appointments’ are there each day? a CAIHC physician. The Physician Staff and the Senior Nurse Care Coordinators There are 84 appointments on most days, except for Fridays when there are 62. work with their designated physician to manage the medical care of the patients 11. What are ‘Same-Day Appointments’ used for? that have selected that team. If you usually want to be seen by a certain PA-C for Same-Day Appointments, and that is important to you, then you should pick These appointments are for any sudden injury or illness or worsening of ongoing the ‘team’ that the certain PA-C is on. medical problems. 4. Are patients being told or assigned to a Primary Care Provider? 12. How do I get a ‘Same-Day Appointment?’ Patients are not assigned to a Primary Care Provider; patients are asked to identify The best way is to call the CAIHC Appointment Desk (451-6682 or 1-800-478- their Primary Care Provider. Choosing a Primary Care Provider can occur 6682, ext. 3650). You may also come in and ask at the Front Desk. However, it in a few ways. When you call for an appointment, we will look to see if you is better to call for the appointment because when you come in, you may find have designated a Primary Care Provider; if you have not, the appointment that your appointment is 2-3 hours from then; calling in can save you a long clerk will ask you to designate one. Whenever you come into the clinic for an wait or a return trip. unscheduled visit, the front desk staff will look to see if you have designated 13. What do I do if there are no more ‘Same-Day Appointments’ for a Primary Care Provider; if you have not, the front desk staff will ask you to the day I that I want to be seen on? designate one. Whenever you think that you need to be seen and there are no more appointments 5. Can I pick any physician as my Primary Care Provider? available, you will be seen by a nurse to discuss and evaluate your needs. All patients Yes, you may designate any of the CAIHC physicians as your Primary that have some medical need and cannot wait longer than that day will be seen. Care Provider. These may seem like a lot of changes, and we understand that it will take 6. Can I change my Primary Care Provider? some time to get used to. Regardless, our goal is to improve the quality of Yes, you may change your Primary Care Provider at any time by, phone, in person care and maximize the efficiency of our resources; we feel that these changes at the front desk, and by talking to the medical or nursing staff during a visit. will bring us closer to that goal.

Huslia’s Health Fair Has Big Turnout By Doreen David, Huslia Community Health Representative Huslia held its yearly Sarah Vent from the TCC diabetes program did blood sugar checks, had a very health fair on March 11, 2006 informational video and some interesting handouts on diabetes facts. She talked to at the Jimmy Huntington each person and explained how important exercising, healthy eating, and taking care School gym. Relative to years of oneself are in diabetes prevention. Many attended the health fair to learn from past, the 2006 health fair had her and have their blood sugar checked. She was able to check 75 blood sugars at the largest turnout; there the health fair. She was not only happy for those that participated, but also to be at were over 100 people who a health fair in her hometown. showed up and participated. Ben Hughes from Warbelow’s Air Ambulance had a booth also. He had great We invited TCC, CAIHC, information on what they do and the types of equipment they use. Warbelow’s Air Ambulance We had a TCC Dental table where Jana Sam handed out tooth brushes, tooth and our community offices paste and pamphlets that let people know how important it is to take care of to have their own booth. their teeth. There was also a Chief Andrew Isaac Health Center booth; they had Tanya Yatlin, the information on their programs, what’s new, their mission and how they work with Left to Right: Sarah Vent, Jakob David-Simon, Harriet H e a l t h a n d S a f e t y village based clinics. David, Kaden Sam and Tessa Sam. educator with the Yukon Tanana Subregional office in Fairbanks, had a very interesting booth. Everyone Finally, we would like to thank Warbelow’s Air Ventures, Arctic Circle Air and enjoyed the information she had on outdoor survival, alcoholism, drug abuse and Wrights Air for donating airline tickets and free freight to the health fair. They really inhalant abuse. She handed out lists of what should be packed when traveling by showed their support for our community by helping us promote healthy and safe snow machine or boat. living. The door prizes were great incentives for people to attend and participate. We would like to thank everyone who had booths for their help and caring for Eileen Jackson and Cesa Sam, of the Huslia environmental office, had a booth our community. Everything turned out wonderful, and the community came out on recycling and trash burning. They distributed information on how to help our and supported healthy living and had fun. We couldn’t have done it with out our community by recycling and how our community is affected by barrel burning. community members, TCC, CAIHC, the airline companies and the volunteers. Colleen Simon, our new Ch’eghutsen’ employee, communicated her job description as well as handed out helpful information. Ch’eghutsen’ is a community effort to try and meet the needs of our children, so that they will choose a healthy lifestyle. They have family planning and community activities so all the children Doreen David is the daughter of Franklin and Lillian Simon. Her late grandparents learn how to socialize with others and learn that they are all precious to us in their are Lydia & Edwin Simon, paternal, and Grafton & Agnes Koyukuk, maternal. She is own special way. married to Russell David and has three children: Jakob, JesCynthia and Jordan. Page 10 • The Council • April 2006 HEALTH SERVICES Need to Talk? Suicide Warning Signs: Verbal: Worried about a friend? FREE, CONFIDENTIAL HELP IS AVAILABLE: I’m thinking of ending it all. Worried about yourself? • Addiction • Grief Talk to someone or call us. I might as well shoot myself. • Crisis • Isolation We can help, really. • Debt • Loneliness I can’t go on. Crisis Intervention • Depression • Self-esteem Life is not worth living. Careline • Domestic violence • Sexual assault Nothing matters anymore. 452-4357 Fairbanks • Education • Suicide I can’t do anything right. 1-877-266-4357 The Hotline is staffed by Alaskans. Calls received during heavy call In Alaska volume times will be answered by the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, Behavioral: 1-800-273-8255 1-800-273-8255. Careline Crisis Intervention is funded by the United Way of the Withdrawal; isolation Tanana Valley, the State of Alaska Division of Behavioral Health and the Alaska National Suicide Impulsiveness; recklessness Mental Health Trust Authority. Prevention Lifeline Putting affairs in order. Toll-free service is funded by Tanana Chiefs Conference. 717 9th Avenue Toll-free: 1-877-266-4357 Increased use of drugs or alcohol Fairbanks, Alaska 99701 Fairbanks: 452-4357 Violence; getting into trouble Office: 452-2771 Fax: 452-2613

How We Get Fat By John Martin, Diabetes Program Physical Activities Coordinator, Hozelleeh Denh Lifestyle Center We Drink Anything But Water These days, there are more soft drinks and juices to choose from than ever before, and chances are, each one of these drinks contains more calories and sugar than a person needs for a few days. That carbonated soft drink for breakfast may feel like it gets you going, but an hour later, it can really cause the body to crash. The reason is because many of these drinks contain high-fructose corn syrup, a refined sugar. These sugars cause the blood sugar to spike, which causes the body to produce higher levels of insulin, which then causes the body to store the sugar as fat. We Don’t Walk Hozelleeh Denh It’s a high-tech world. Few people walk. Instead we drive, take elevators and escalators. Cell phones ‘Place Where We and instant messaging mean more time sitting at a desk, instead of taking a stroll to relay a message. Exercise’ Sitting in front of the television or the computer for hours each day doesn’t help either, and it leads to Open Monday-Friday atrophied muscles. 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. in the TCC Basement No Exercise Must be a TCC Sedentary lifestyles are one of the main reasons why people gain weight: metabolism slows, causing health beneficiary the body to burn fewer calories during rest. The body automatically starts to store extra weight, because or employee. it isn’t burning it. Not working out also causes the body to break down muscle, which is needed to burn For further information, extra calories, furthering the metabolism to slow down. call Stress John Martin, ext. 3773. Try not to stress out. Research shows that heightened stress also increases the production of cortisol in the body. Cortisol has been linked to higher fat production, especially around the mid-section, where fat can be extremely harmful. Stress can also cause a person to have an erratic eating schedule, leading to poor food choices. Depression is also associated with stress. Taking antidepressants can cause weight-gain or make losing weight seem impossible, while depression itself can lead to overeating. Our body craves more carbohydrates and sugar because they increase serotonin production — the brain chemical that makes us happy. We Eat Junk Food Junk food is everywhere. It surrounds us in the supermarket, at the deli, vending machines and even at restaurants when they serve those tasty potato chips with a meal. Most junk food contains refined carbohydrates that provide little, if any, nutritional value. Not to mention that junk food is calorie dense and usually full of fat. Have you ever wiped your hands after snacking on some chips? That grease isn’t healthy — it’s heart stopping. The best food to eat is live food, such as fresh vegetables and fruit. It may not sound half as appetizing, but once a person starts to eat more of it, the body will eventually crave these foods instead. We Eat Out Regularly Fast food joints aren’t the only culprits for fat. Most restaurants aren’t trying to skimp on flavor, and — surprise, surprise — flavor comes from fat and sugar, not to mention that most restaurants serve extra-large portions. Chances are a lot of the food served on a menu is also fried, or even worse, deep fried. Not only is the oil used to fry food calorie dense, but the batter used to dip the food in is usually made of refined flour. The combination of high carbohydrates and calories is an easy way to pack on the pounds. Excessive Alcohol Not only do alcoholic drinks, wine and liquor have tons of calories, they are easily consumed. Before a person realizes it, they have had three or four drinks that can easily equal about 400 calories in one sitting — while to actually lose weight, a person must subtract 500 calories a day from their suggested daily caloric intake. On top of that, alcohol is a depressant that can alter a person’s mood to make them want to overeat. And to make matters even worse, alcohol is an appetite stimulant. Never Read Food Labels Food labels are there for a reason, so read them. If a person doesn’t know how many calories they are consuming or what kind of ingredients a food contains, how can that person know if what they are eating is healthy? Don’t be fooled by thinking something is low-fat or fat-free. Check the label and see how many calories it has or how many refined carbohydrates there are. Better yet, why not take a look at the ingredients? If you don’t know how to pronounce most of them, it’s best not to try to eat them either. Genetics Look at your parents, pictures of their parents and of other family members. Chances are if they are overweight, it runs in the genes. But that doesn’t mean genetics can’t be beat, and overweight isn’t obesity. Regular exercise, eating healthy, drinking plenty of water and getting ample amounts of sleep can counteract the genes that have been bestowed. Health becomes a problem due to bad food choices and lack of exercise. Grow Older Metabolism naturally slows down with age and makes weight increase common by middle age. This is even more reason to eat healthy and to exercise. As we get older, we need fewer calories as we have less muscle mass. Calorie needs usually reduce by two to four percent every ten years or so, which means a person who requires 2500 calories at age 25 will only need about 2200 calories by the age of 50. April 2006 • The Council • Page 11 HEALTH SERVICES Bird Flu and Subsistence in Alaska Meth Mouth‘s Irreversible Effects How worried should we be about bird flu? by Barbara O’Donnell, TCC Registered Dental Hygienist There’s no need to stop your subsistence practices. Just follow the safety Recently, dental professionals throughout the United States, including Alaska, guidelines. have noticed an alarming phenomenon. It is the rapid and extreme breakdown What safety guidelines should we follow? of teeth and gums among young people. Their teeth are described as “like a • Don’t handle birds and game that appear sick or you find dead. shotgun blast in the mouth” or “a picket fence that a truck ran over”. This has • Use rubber gloves when cleaning birds and game, and gathering eggs. now been identified as a side effect of using the street drug Methamphetamine • Don’t eat, drink or smoke while cleaning birds and game; keep your and is known as “Meth Mouth.” hands away from your face and mouth. Although tooth decay can happen to anyone, most people are able to control • Wash your hands with soap and water, or alcohol wipes or gel after sugar intake and brush enough to prevent major cavities. Methamphetamine cleaning birds and game. users, however, get into a downward spiral leading to severe oral abuse causing • Clean all tools and surfaces immediately; use hot soapy water first, then rotting, brittle and crumbling teeth, and bleeding, painful gums. Meth use leads disinfect with a mix of one part bleach to 10 parts water. to total destruction of the oral cavity; all of the rotten teeth must be pulled. Users • Keep dead birds and game meat cool, clean and dry. Wash eggs. will end up toothless at a young age. • Cook birds and game thoroughly (155 -165 degrees). Cook eggs. Meth is made by “cooking” over-the-counter medicines mixed with What is being done about bird flu in Alaska? poisonous household and industrial chemicals. This includes strong substances like drain cleaner and other heavy duty solvents. The solvents are so caustic they Wildlife agencies are prepared to sample thousands of birds for bird flu this can destroy the hardest substance in your body, your teeth. Not only are users summer. They are coordinating with wildlife agencies across the U.S. and Canada, affected, but second-hand exposure to meth among kids and babies in homes and working closely with Alaska public health agencies. where “meth” is cooked can cause the same result. What else do we need to know? Meth addicts in jail or trying to quit describe the following: You need to keep up with current news and information. The situation with 1) Dry mouth. Meth dries up salivary glands. Dry mouth contributes to bird flu is constantly changing and advice may change. Stay informed! plaque at the gum line, causing bleeding gums, gingivitis and bad cavities Where can we go for more information? near gums. For bird information or to report sick or dead birds: 2) Bad chemical taste — bleeding, acids, toxins and caustic substances can Alaska Department of Fish & Game: Anchorage (907) 267-2257, Fairbanks contribute to this. (907) 459-7706, Juneau (907) 465-4148, or your local ADF&G office; website: 3) To get rid of dry mouth and bad chemical tastes, they drink a lot of soda http://www.wildlife.alaska.gov/aawildlife/disease/avian_influenza.pdf. and sports drinks, which result in more cavities. U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service: Toll-free 1-866-527-3358 (1-866-5-BRD FLU) or your local refuge office; website: http://alaska.fws.gov/media/avian_influenza/ 4) Neglect — they have no interest in daily brushing or home care. index.htm. 5) Clenching and grinding teeth, which leads to cracking and snapping their For human health information: teeth off at the gum line. Chips and pieces of rotten teeth break off. Alaska Department of Health & Social Services, Section of Epidemiology: 6) Crumbling teeth — their teeth just crumble and break apart, even when Anchorage (907) 269-8000, or your local health aide, clinic or hospital; website eating soft food because they are rotten. http://www.epi.alaska.gov/id/influenza/fluinfo.htm and select Avian Influenza. Methamphetamines usage can cause yellow, soft, mushy, black, rotten and/or crumbling teeth, especially front teeth. Pieces of your teeth will break off when sleeping, talking or eating. There will be yellow, gray or white slime all over Lazy Eye your teeth and gums. Your gums will be bleeding, purple and infected. You will By CDR and Dr. Charles Jaworski, Fellow, American Academy of Optometry experience a bad, chemical taste all the time. These are the side effects of meth Lazy eye, or amblyopia, is the Treatment for lazy eye may include use. Is meth use worth the side effects? loss or lack of development of central a combination of prescription lenses, vision in one eye; it is unrelated to prisms, vision therapy and eye patching. When a Tooth is Knocked Out ... any eye health problem and is not Vision therapy teaches the two eyes how correctable with lenses. Lazy eye can to work together, which helps prevent Here’s what to do when a tooth is knocked out: result from a failure to use both eyes lazy eye from reoccurring. • Hold the tooth by the crown and rinse off the together. Lazy eye is often associated Early diagnosis increases the with crossed eyes or a large difference root of the tooth in water if it’s dirty. Do not scrub chance for a complete recovery. This it or remove any attached tissue fragments. in the degree of nearsightedness or is one reason why the TCC Eye Clinic farsightedness between the eyes. It recommends that children have a • If possible, gently insert and hold the tooth in usually develops before age six and does comprehensive eye examination by its socket. not affect side vision. the age of six months and again at Symptoms may include favoring age three. Lazy eye will not go away • If that isn’t possible, put the tooth in a cup of one eye or a tendency to bump into on its own. If not diagnosed until the milk and get to the dentist as quickly as possible. objects on one side. Symptoms are not pre-teen, teen or adult years, treatment • Remember…take the tooth with you! always obvious. takes longer and is often less effective. Taken from the CHAP Newsletter Thank You for Years of Service By Barbara O’Donnell, TCC Registered Dental Hygienist Step Up to Nutrition and Health! By Renee Legan, Registered Dietitian, WIC Coordinator, WIC Program, If you still have your wisdom teeth, chances are you have not met Oral Surgeon Dr. John Drager. Then Chief Andrew Isaac Health Center again, maybe you have, for a biopsy, ortho extractions, 4 The food and physical activity choices made today, and every day, injury, or another surgical need in the 25-plus years he affect your health and how you feel today and in the future. Eating right practiced at Alaska Native Medical Center in Anchorage and being physically active are keys to a healthy lifestyle. and TCC Dental Clinic in Fairbanks. 4 Make smart choices from every food group. Give your body the Dr. Drager was the only oral surgeon for the Alaska Native community from 1981 until he retired from the balanced nutrition it needs by eating a variety of nutrient-packed foods US Public Health Service in 1993. He then contracted every day. Just be sure to stay within your daily calorie needs. with TCC Dental Clinic until 2005. The recent birth of 4 Get the most nutrition out of your calories. Choose the most his granddaughter, Stella Margaret Drager, convinced Dr. Drager and his wife Carol nutritionally rich foods you can from each food group every day — those him to spend more time visiting her and his adult packed with vitamins, minerals, fiber and other nutrients that are children: Phil and wife Kjersten, and daughter Christine and husband Tim, who all live and work in Washington, DC. low in calories. Dr. Drager is originally from Wisconsin. He met and married his wife, Carol, 4 Find your balance between food and physical activity. Regular there in 1966. They have lived in New York, New Orleans, Seattle, Boston and Virginia, physical activity is important for your overall health and fitness, plus it where Dr. Drager practiced before Alaska. Carol currently manages Dr. Drager’s helps control body weight, promotes a feeling of well-being, and reduces private oral surgery practice in Anchorage and is an officer of the Washington-Alaska the risk of chronic diseases. District Lutheran Women in Mission. 4 Play it safe with foods. Prepare, handle and store food properly to Next to family, church, and oral surgery, fishing is Dr. Drager’s all-time favorite activity. When he finally retires from private practice, he and Carol keep yourself and your family safe. will most likely retire on the Kenai River. Dr. Drager continues to practice oral For more information, call (907) 451-6682, ext. 3778 or e-mail surgery in Anchorage. [email protected]. Page 12 • The Council • April 2006 NEWS FOR OUR PEOPLE First Annual Miss Nika’ghun New Alaska Native Owned Pageant Awesome! Business in Town: By Sharon Schrock, Pageant Coordinator Madison Gray Maternity The Miss Nika’ghun pageant was held the weekend of March 31st, 2006 Madison Gray Maternity, a locally-owned, Alaskan Native business in in Nulato during their Annual Spring Fairbanks, was founded by Patricia Delgado with the support of her husband Carnival. The pageant provided Dee Delgado in April 2005. Patricia was born and raised in Fairbanks by inspiration and was brought together by Phyllis A. (Alexander) Taylor of Ft. Yukon and John S. Taylor of Pennsylvania. many volunteers. Last year, the pageant Along with great customer service, Madison Gray Maternity sells top-notch was put into the planning stages through the Nulato website. A committee was maternity clothing and accessories. We have stylish maternity tops, tank tops and assembled that consisted of Girlie Nickoli, tees for your belly; maternity jeans and skirts that fit your style; nursing bras, Gloria Patsy, Bernice Joseph, Kat Sam designer diaper bags and many accessories. We carry baby slings, pregnancy and myself. books, labor care packs and belly skincare products. Community members and visitors Also, on Sundays we sometimes have special guest speakers to teach classes. packed into the John C. Sackett We also do belly casting with a local artist that can create a beautiful story on Kk’uskkono (community hall) for this finished projects. We also offer personalized shopping, so feel free to call and let wonderful event. The contestants included us know what you need; we will do our best to find that item for you. Also, if Grace Stickman, Leslie Ambrose and you need to come by the store at a time we are not open, call us during business Nicole Gregory. They were judged on a hours and let us know and we can make an appointment. Left to Right: Grace Stickman, Leslie personal interview, regalia and a talent We have also brought in consignment to Madison Gray for great savings for Ambrose and Nicole Gregory presentation. With their gorgeous Native attire, they made presentations on fish ice cream making, lands and natural resources you and your baby. We now have gently used baby clothing and maternity clothes and traditional story telling. The speakers for the pageant included Bernice Joseph, for a greatly reduced price. You can also bring in your gently used maternity Dean of the UAF College of Rural & Community Development, for the keynote clothes for consignment for some extra spending money on your little bundle address; Winnie Sipary, former Miss Nulato in the 70’s; and Martha Demoski, of joy. We also have special orders on crib sets and cribs. sister to Donna Demoski who passed away in 1978. Martha Demoski spoke of her Through our commitment, experience and expertise, Madison Gray sister Donna, who was the inspiration for the contest. It was a fun-filled evening Maternity has established a business relationship with our customers with door prizes and excitement for the 2006 Miss Nika’ghun. that will last a lifetime. We have enjoyed serving the “moms to be” and At the end of the evening, the 2006 Miss Nika’ghun was announced; Nicole look forward to every next customer. Don’t forget to visit our website at Gregory. She was greeted by a standing ovation and tears of joy. The 1st Runner-up http://www.mgmaternity.comm, or give us a call at 907-374-4664. Spring hours Leslie Ambrose and Grace Stickman, the 2nd Runner-up, both did a great job in are Monday through Friday 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday noon to 5 p.m. preparing their presentations and are encouraged to go on and enter the Miss WEIO Pageant in July. As Miss Nika’ghun, Nicole will represent the community of Nulato For information on receiving prize money for your business idea, and the Yukon area as a role model for all youth and young ladies. visit the Alaska Marketplace website at http://www.alaskamarketplace.org. Please applaud the contestants. They are all winners for being involved. When the pageant was coming together, I began hearing about family members sewing in support of the ladies, and I could not help but feel proud to be from International the small village of Nulato. Sewing is usually done when someone passes on, but to know this was happening for our young ladies was another feeling. Migratory Bird Day Let’s continue to encourage and get involved with our youth because only great things are bound to happen; let’s make that commitment to them. The importance of the We were able to offer the contestant gifts thanks to the following sponsors: UAF boreal forest to birds College of Rural & Community Development, our major donor; TCC Diabetes i s t h e f o c u s o f t h e Program; Gana Yoo Limited; Nulato Tribal Council; Warbelow’s Air Ventures; 2006 International Migratory Doyon, Limited; TCC Administration; Betty Huntington; Josephine Malemute, Bird Day, an event that is Laurie Ralston and Annie Hildebrand. celebrated throughout North A big thank you to the following artisans who donated craft items: Rosa Lee Peter, America each spring. You Daphne Williams, Carmen Sears, Nancy Butler, Lillian DeWilde, Reverend Anna can join in the celebration (and Frank, Karen Rifredi, Hannah Bunschu, Miranda Wright and Janice Demoski. win prizes!) by keeping track The weekend included many volunteers, but I’d like to recognize the following: of the birds you see arriving sash makers Sharon Demoski, Monica Fruehan, Sherry Agnes and Janice Demoski; in our area. auditors Edith Nicholas and Sharon Demoski, and judges Shirley Kriska, Rosa Peter, Charlene Ostbloom, Winnie Sipary and Martha Demoski. Koyukuk/Nowitna National Wildlife Refuge will be giving Sharon Schrock is the granddaughter of Ellen and Aloysius Peters, who raised posters away to anyone who her as their daughter. She is blessed with two children, Jay and Peter, and her “other half,” Vern. keeps track of bird arrivals and turns in their information to the Galena office by May 15. Entries Honoring Alaska Natives for will also be put into a drawing to win prizes, including IMBD Military Service and Education t-shirts, bird books, binoculars Candice Rae George-Rodriguez and more. United States Navy All you need to do is write down the date that you first observe each bird species this spring. You will also Candice Rae George-Rodriguez is in her third year be helping biologists understand bird migration in our in the Navy and is stationed at the US Naval Base in region! Norfolk, VA. She is assigned to the George Washington For more information contact: Karin Lehmkuhl, Koyukuk/Nowitna Aircraft Carrier where her duty is in Aircraft Launch National Wildlife Refuges, P. O. Box 287, Galena, AK 99741, (800) 656-1231, and Recovery Equipment. She is the daughter of [email protected]. You can also find out more about International Curtis and Doris Sommer of Tanana. Migratory Bird Day at: www.birdday.org.

In future months, The Council will include more photos of MEMORIAL POTLATCH our people in the military. The deadline for military photos is FOR June 23, 2006. PAUL KOYUKUK Similarly, we are interested in our community members who ALLAKAKET, AK are graduating from college or high school. The deadline for August 4, 5, 6, 2006 pictures of graduates is May 26, 2006. EVERYONE IS WELCOME. Please e-mail or mail pictures of your family to The Council, Any questions, or if you need a place to stay, call: [email protected] or 122 First Avenue, Millie Moses Suite 600, Fairbanks, AK 99701. (907) 968-2216