November/December 2009 • The CouncilNon-Profit • Page 1 Online at www.tananachiefs.org Organization U.S. Postage PAID Anchorage, AK Permit No. 537

Dena’ Nena’ Henash ––Our Land Speaks Vol. 34, No. 5 A Report to the Member Tribes of the Tanana Chiefs Conference November/December 2009 Happy Holidays from Tanana Chiefs Conference Tanana Chiefs Conference Human Resources Report Gerald From the TCC Human Resources Department and Berma Background Checks bids for the National Background Check Pilot play provider. Justifacts and two other compa- at the 27th The Department has dedicated nies have contacted us. This will allow a considerable time addressing the em- turnaround time from a day to 48 hours on Annual ployee background check issue. Barbara all background checks. HR is waiting for Athabas- Sunday, HR Generalist and John Eber- confirmation to include accountants, legal, can Fid- hart, Deputy General Counsel have had and top management to be included in this dlers Festi- conducted training sessions for mid-level background check. This would allevi- val held at supervisors. Those sessions were first ate any unexpected surprises and ensure conducted on September 28 & 29. The compliance during our audit. the David training encompassed the Criminal His- Copies of the various documents Salmon tory and Barrier Crimes check required have been placed in employee files for Tribal Hall by the Board of Directors. A PowerPoint future reference and to show the auditors in Fair- presentation was used to cover general how we are complying with their requests. banks on regulations for DHSS, BIA, Indian Child Barbara has set up a Matrix to track the Protection and Family Violence Preven- above information by employee and grant. November tion Act of 1990. Handouts of the fol- We have scheduled classes on November 12th-14th. lowing were provided: the PowerPoint 5th and 6th for staff that were not able to presentation, the Board Resolution make the first two classes. 09-03, list of ICPA felonious offenses Barbara has set up a desk manual and misdemeanors, State of Alaska Bar- for the various regulations to refer to rier Crime matrix, walk in locations for when asked specific questions on the “Interested Person’s Report (Criminal background regulations. Barbara is also History Check), DHSS required back- auditing the I’9s for compliance with the ground check unit documents, example Federal Department of Labor laws and of the proof for “Provisional Release”, a have contacted many employees that did cheat sheet of the Alaska statutory require- not have an I’9 in our files. This included A Family Reunited ments, current divisions required to be employees in upper management and By Debbie Mitchelle, Tribal Enrollment Specialist processed through the BCU and where the administration. Jeffrey came into my office to Alaska, in whatever state the birth mother BCU checks the criminal history for each Classification and Job Descriptions become tribally enrolled, to what tribe, happened to be. From the beginning applicant. Certificates were issued to each he didn’t know, for he was adopted in they’re away from their cultures and tradi- attendee for their employee files to track Holly Berger was recently Seattle as an infant. But he knew he was tions. The ties are severed to communities employees attending the classes. rehired by TCC’s HR department to work an Alaskan Indian, for his parents had told and tribes that help to shape who we are. At the present time we have 211 on job classification, PCN review and him so. His hair was long, he wore glasses They missed out on “what our great- employees and 17 Independent Contrac- maintenance of Payroll Change Notices. and was a auto mechanic by trade. He grandfathers taught”, as Chief Peter John tors that have had their background checks There has already been an improvement definitely looked Indian, in the traditional would often say. There were no potlatch- processed through the Department of in the turnaround time. This frees up sense. Little did I know that because of es to experience, no opportunity to listen Health and Social Services (DHSS) for the HR Director to work on other things him coming to my office, I would learn to the elders tell stories and offer advice. the State of Alaska grants and through the such as the job mapping, personnel policy more about adoption, specifically the Instead they were raised in western soci- Department of Public Safety for the ICPA changes, and updates on procedures and adoption of Native children, and I would ety where they found themselves--after a and BIA grant requirements. A lot of ques- practices such as updating forms, etc. witness a reunion that was graciously couple of decades of “not quite fitting in”- tions were asked and the feedback HR has Benefits Administration shared. -looking to where they had come from. received has been very positive. Barbara Currently Terri Paul-Smoke and Kevin There is a history of Alaska Na- There have been changes in has also been working with the IT depart- Hinman are being cross-trained to admin- tive children being adopted and taken out adoption laws with regards to Native chil- ment to integrate our process through ister benefits. They are being given access of the State or being adopted outside of Continued on page 9... Oracle. The department has also solicited Continued on page 5... Page 2 • The Council • November/December 2009 Letters to the editor Letter from the Editor December 15th, 2009

Greetings to All, I hope this newsletter finds you and your loved ones in good health and spirits. The Council is a monthly report to the Member Tribes of the Tanana Chiefs First, I would like to apologize to our Conference, in accordance with agreements with the and readers for the delay in The Council as of late. But the Indian Health Service. Letters to the Editor, other written contributions and to make up for this, the 2010 TCC Calendar is out photos submissions are welcome. However, space is limited and program-oriented the door and should be in your mailboxes by the news has priority. We reserve the right to edit or reject material. Letters and beginning of January. opinions are not necessarily the opinions of Tanana Chiefs Conference. Material Much has happened since the last issue: submitted anonymously will not be printed. Contributions and questions may be Elders and Youth Conference, Alaska Federation of directed to: Natives Conference, Obama met with tribes from across the nation and a few of us traveled down the with the Alaska Attorney general and Agatha I.Erickson, Editor Governor Parnell’s rural sub-cabinet. I had the Tanana Chiefs Conference wonderful opportunity to travel along on some of 122 First Avenue, Suite 600 these events. Fairbanks, Alaska 99701 One thing that stood out at each event was the participation by Alaska Native youth. It was so inspiring to see the eagerness of these young people to get involved in Phone: (907) 452-8251 ext. 3570 issues facing the Alaska Native community. I saw this everywhere from NCAI to the Toll-free (Alaska): 800-478-6682 town meetings with the rural sub-cabinet. (Out-of-State) 800-770-8251 For example, on the second day of the Elders and Youth conference every Fax: (907) 459-3884 region had its own break out session to discuss issues surround Alaska Native language. The interior regional language session was run by Susan Paskvan who had a [email protected] full room of participates, ranging from children to elders speaking in Denaakk’e with each other for over forty-five minutes. It was awesome to see elders and youth hanging out together, playing games, laughing and speaking Denaakk’e the whole time. Another moment of inspiration came during Willie Hensley and Elizabeth Hensley’s’ speech during AFN. The father/daughter duo bridged the gap between the older generation and the up and coming generation. Their message was one of IN THIS ISSUE challenges we face, but also of hope. Hope in our strength as Alaska Native peoples All of this to say, I am totally pumped about our up and coming youth and Letters to Editor...... 2-3 future leaders. It is so easy to get bogged down by the issues that are facing the Alaska Native community today, but to know many of our youth are actively involved in creating solutions to address these issues lifts my spirits immensely. News for our People...... 4-8 This year has left me with a sense of hope. Yes, we are facing difficult and complex challenges, but we are also incredibly resilient. Looking ahead, I see the Family Services...... 9 difficulties that we face and how hard these challenges will be, but interacting with elders and seeing the joy in their faces made me realize that we have come far. And Health Services...... 10-11 that is truly something to rejoice in. As always, do not hesitate to contact me if you have questions or concerns. Announcements...... 12 My contact information can be found to the left of this letter. Many blessings on you and your loved ones. October 13th, 2009 Baasee’ and happy holidays, To the Editor, Agatha Erickson October 11th, 2009 tists are saying the Ice caps will melt in David and Linda (Keirn) 5 years. The ice caps are like a mirror for McDougall of Wasilla are delighted to To the Editor, the sun’s heat rays, when it’s gone, our announce their daughters marriage. The mirror will be gone and the sun will put wedding took place October 3, 2009 at We need as many Athabascan more heat on the permafrost in Alaska. 6:00 p.m. at Settlers Bay Lodge in Wasilla delegates and papers sent to Copenhagen, This will melt it faster and it’ll release with the reception immediately following. Denmark as possible this December 6-21. more methane gas. When that happens it’s Chelsea is the daughter of David and The world will gather to talk and make going to make Global Warming worse, it’s Linda McDougall of Wasilla. She gradu- an agreement on Global Warming. I think going to start feeding itself and get out of ated from Burchell High School in June President Obama is going too. Athabas- control, and then we won’t stop it. 2009 and will be pursuing college to cans need to yell out about Global Warm- There’s a movie I watch a lot in become a nurse. ing. It’s destroying our Interior villages: the village: Troy. I like the scene where David is the son of Bernie and more forest fires, animal and fish moving Achillies mother tells him, “If you don’t Christi DeSena of Wasilla. He graduated in different directions and times, weather go, you’ll settle down, start a family and from Alaska Youth Academy in 2005. changing more, and salmon is getting be forgotten, but if you go, they’ll write David is currently in the Airforce. smaller. It’s our job as Native people to stories about you for a thousand years.” The couple enjoys spending time take care of the land, God assigned us this I’m saying this to the Athabascan Chiefs, together thumb wrestling, watching mov- job at the beginning of the world. That is Jerry Isaac, the Preachers, all people of ies, playing games and spending time with what we’re doing out there, managing the Faith, and all environmentalists. Except their family and friends. was his brother Josh McCubbin and his land. I hope the Faith and Environmental the part he got killed (laughs). The ceremony was officiated groomsmen were his good friends: Sean communities are organizing too. We need to make the Athabascan by Fabian J.N. Keirn of Fairbanks. The Mulloy, Casey Biggins, & Jeremy Taylor. We need to organize all Athabas- Voice heard at the Copenhagen Climate couple wrote their own vows and pledged Linda McDougall cans in every camp, village, and neighbor- Conference this December 6-21. their love to each other. hood to tell the world we want a different Chelsea’s Maid of Honor is her Sincerely, direction from oil, gas, and coal. This stuff Sincerely, best friend Renae Thobe and her brides- is causing Global Warming. maids were: Her cousin Audrianna Kren- Linda McDougall If we don’t do something, the Matt Gilbert zelak and Ashlee McDougall, and good climate is going to get really bad. Scien- friend Danielle Mulloy. David’s best man November/December 2009 • The Council • Page 3 Letters to the editor October 26, 2009 October 28th, 2009 regulations reformation and/or overhaul of subsistence in Alaska. An undercur- To the Editor: To the Editor: rent to the topic of subsistence definitely provided a feeling of impetus throughout I would like to introduce myself Starting from the end of AFN on Saturday the whole convention, but no one re- to the 42 villages of the interior. My name Oct. 24 and going backwards to the begin- ally got up and stated how exactly these is Patrick Smith, I am a resident of the vil- ning on Thursday Oct. 22… changes are going to be addressed, from lage of Minto and my parents are Patrick any Alaska Native or non-Native official J. Smith (deceased) of Bethel, Cora Smith The resolutions process Saturday or semi-official entity. I’ll be watching in- of Minto, My grandparents on my father’s morning proved to be trying in achiev- tently for any whiff of news and develop- side are Andrew and Mary Smith (both ing consensus between regions (maybe ment regarding the new changes coming deceased) he was of polish descent she even within regions), with three or four in late winter next year… was of decent and on my mother’s regions out of a total of thirteen dominat- To no surprise then when state side my grandparents are Peter and Elsie ing the proceedings of pulling resolutions Senator and AFN Co-Chair Mr. Albert John (both deceased) of Minto. and discussing resolutions and amending Kookesh was awarded with the AFN Citi- The reason I am writing this resolutions. The AFN resolutions commit- zen of the Year Award Thursday afternoon letter is to inform the interior villages of food security, agricultural management, tee members even pulled a few underhand Oct. 22. Senator Kookesh was cited by my newly acquired position on the UAF/ but they are also capable of educating tactics and pushed voting through several the State of Alaska in early August of this Cooperative Extension Services State people about home economics, lowering resolutions before the general delegation year for taking too many fish in Admiralty Advisory Council, I will be serving on this home energy costs and healthy living and realized what even happened. A CITC Bay in Southeast Alaska near the village council for three years, I have sat in on community planning. delegate, CIRI delegate and CEO Gloria of Angoon. Senator Kookesh has vowed meetings since April 2009. There are many things that the O’Neill, and Sealaska delegate and board to fight the citation to bring about a new I will be representing the interior Cooperative Extension Service has to of- president Rosita Worl expressed disap- contemporary court ruling regarding sub- villages during this time, I feel this posi- fer our communities through information pointment in the committee’s actions sistence policy and regulation and law in tion has a great deal to offer our commu- that has been researched by the UAF/CES before the convention. Usually Trefon Alaska, divided between Federal enforce- nities through the various programs that staff which would further all the above- Angasan, the resolutions process chair ment and State of Alaska enforcement. the Cooperative Extension offers and also mentioned needs. from Bristol Bay, provides witty humor to The basis of Senator Kookesh’s legal it would create a voice for some of our I remember the Elders saying the process, but this year laughs and good battle has been stated as the State having important village issues; such as Energy, “one of these days you young people are natured fun were few and far between. A no legal basis behind the citation, since Heating, food sustainability. going to have to go back to the old way of delegate from Bristol Bay became fed up Senator Kookesh was practicing subsis- One of the programs that are of doing things to survive.” with the bad atmosphere and addressed tence on lands and waterways managed by importance to me would be the 4-H pro- I believe that to be true, because the resolutions process and convention the Federal government, not by the state gram. This particular program centers on I look at the world today and see where with: “We have no business bickering government. I can take up the rest of this youth development and could help them to it is heading and it would be only right to amongst ourselves.” post over subsistence alone, so I will stop stay connected to the positive ideals that teach our youth about our culture as well Friday evening Oct. 23 packed writing about it now. Nevertheless, AFN our communities need. Though the CES as how to have gardens and how to dig the house for Quyana Night II with many came out with a very strong political state- is largely agricultural this seems to be a root cellar to preserve our food which different dance groups performing at least ment in awarding Senator Kookesh with where 4-H program focuses. We as a na- requires no electrical energy. a half-hour each. I remember as a child the Citizen of the Year Award, voted on by tive people could add a few new ideas that I thank you for taking the time to spending half the night watching all the the members of the AFN board of direc- would help our youth to stay connected to read this and I look forward to represent- dance groups and seeing many hundreds tors. their cultural background, while teaching ing you folks by sitting on the Coopera- of people swarm around the stage. There The tone of the whole 2009 AFN them about agriculture, food preservation, tive Extensions State Advisory Council, if aren’t as many dance groups these days, Convention was firmly and emphatically and a more positive outlook on life. One you have any concerns or need help with but Quyana Night is still very important set by the keynote speakers Thursday important component of the 4-H program anything pertaining to the Cooperative for the convention I would think. I have a morning Oct. 22. Mr. Willie Hensley is to find volunteers who are willing to Extension Service and its programs feel lot of respect for people who can sing and of Kotzebue and his daughter Elizabeth give their time and energy to teach our free to call me at home at (907) 798-7355. dance in their traditional ways in front of Hensley were fitting speakers represent- youth. the whole convention and state and even ing the old and new guard of the Alaska The Cooperative Extension Ser- Sincerely, world thanks to live internet streams. An Federation of Natives and Alaska Native vice is largely an organization that distrib- Patrick Smith AFN board member reported thousands peoples as a whole. Mr. Hensley provided utes information about self- sufficiency, and thousands of hits from around the a knowing speech and Ms. Hensley pro- world on the AFN website. vided an open and very welcome speech. October 2009 Friday afternoon stole the show Many convention delegates and attendees all will come to realize that I am only do- when former state Senator Kim Elton, know and understand the background of ing this in the hopes that no one else will To Whom It May Concern: now a policy advisor to Department of Alaska Native social and political affairs be taken from us in this way. I only want Interior Secretary Ken Salazar, presented without having them aired and brought out to find a workable solution to prevent this It’s been one month since the video addresses by both the Secretary for the convention, but this is exactly what from happening again. fatal accidental shooting of a young man and Assistant Secretary of the BIA Larry Ms. Hensley did for her keynote speech. Again I am asking that you in an Alaskan Interior village. Since then Echohawk. All three Department of Interi- Having the old and stale background please consider bringing up the topic of there has been another accidental shoot- or officials addressed necessary policy and information brought out for everyone to the importance of Gun Safety Education ing in Juneau where the exact same thing regulations changes to Alaska subsistance regard gave new light, at least I would in the villages, as well as other equally happened! And yes Juneau is not a village, laws, coming by at least February 2010. I think, to the fast coming future of Alaska important issues facing our Native com- but it just goes to show that everyone is do have to admit I did not pay attention to Native peoples… munities today, at any upcoming meetings affected by the lack of safety education. the presentations, as I was expecting the The 2009 Convention of the you may have. I truly believe this is a On a more positive note I have same old same old! But I do have a pretty Alaska Federation of Natives proved situation that needs to be confronted. And received a response letter from Governor good understanding of the framework and undoubtedly to be important. thank you again for your time. I hope all Sean Parnell, via the State of Alaska State background of Alaska subsistence laws is well with you and yours. God Bless. Troopers Director, Audie Holloway. I have and policies and issues, and even I can say Thanks, enclosed a copy of the letter for you to I saw these changes coming. What I am Sincerely, read for yourself. I have also learned that concerned with is how , Freddie Olin the Beaver Council is planning on holding whether through tribal IRAs or through Vanessa Horace workshops! And while some found my AFN as a whole or by region to region, previous letter to be offensive I am hoping are going to influence these policy and Page 4 • The Council • November/December 2009 Employment and education Fresh Faces for the North Slope A New Year and a New Graduate! By Melodie Byrd, Apprentice Administrator for the Alaska Laborers’ By Melodie Byrd, Apprentice Administrator for the Alaska Laborers’ Training School Training School Here at the Alaska Laborers’ Training School, we have successfully completed Brandon Shank of Nulato, was Norcon, at Pump Station 1, Prudhoe our 5th annual Pipeline Training. This was one of the first classes of our packed sched- enrolled into the Alaska Laborers Appren- Bay. ule for the 2009-10 school year. The Pipeline Construction Class is structured outside ticeship Program March 17, 2008. He is The Alaska Laborers’ Training the classroom, on location at the Fairbanks Pipeline Training Center. We train appren- scheduled to graduate to full journeyman’s School would like wish Brandon all the tices and journeymen in rigging and pipeline work together with the allied trades, creat- status by the end of December. During his best in his career as a Construction Craft ing a realistic work environment prior to North Slope exposure. This year 21 students Apprenticeship, Brandon had two main Laborer with the Laborers Local 942 completed the three week course. dispatches both on the North Slope. Union. Our instructors are seasoned Prudhoe Bay journeymen so our students get to As part of the Program, Bran- “If we have more candidates of work alongside experienced knowledgeable men. Some apprentices indicated by the don was required to take a minimum of this caliber in the villages, please send instructors will be hired straight from this class and dispatched to Prudhoe Bay. 576 class hours at the Fairbanks training them to us. We have a construction career school. Included in these classes were, waiting here for them” said Tim Sharp, For more information on the Alaska Laborers Training School and the Apprenticeship Pipeline Training, Rigging, Concrete and Business Manager of Laborers Local 942. Program, visit www.laborerslocal942.com or call Melodie Byrd at 452-3146. Hazardous Waste. For more information on the Brandon is currently attending Alaska Laborers Training School, visit the Form Building class, after which he www.laborerslocal942.com or call Melo- will graduate and return to work for die Byrd at 452-3146.

Brandon Shank volunteers to help with a Habitat for Humanity project in Fairbanks, GED Program April 2008. The Laborers’ Local 942 often volunteers in the community Congratulations to the Students of Available Now the Rural Nutrition Services By Sarah McConnell, LCSW, Program Manager/Faculty to Alaska Troth Yeddha’ Nutrition Project,University of Alaska Fairbanks Natives

If you are Alaska Native missing the high school diploma and living anywhere in the Doyon/Tanana Chiefs Region including Fairbanks or North Pole, and at least 18, you could be eligible to earn that missing GED Diploma under the REAL (Rural Education For Adult Learners) GED program offered by Adult Learning Programs of Alaska. REAL offers all the necessary GED instruction and do all the testing that you’ll need to earn the GED diploma. And, they pay all the costs. Your GED will cost you nothing but your own hard work. Congratulations to the first student group Melanie Magnuson (Unalaska), Emily Call Jim today at ALPA 452-6434 X232 or 1-866-452-6434 for to complete Rural Nutrition Services Bergman (Allakaket), Yvonne Howard 12-credits of coursework at the Interior - (Eagle), Cecil Sanford (Mentasta), Sandy more information about how to apply. This is a splendid opportunity Aleutians Campus of University of Alaska Moore (Chistochina), Lily O’Brien (Ne- to earn the missing diploma. You will greatly improve job training and Fairbanks. Students devoted two semes- nana) and Brenda Wilson (King Cove). employment and career opportunities, and, at no cost. Call now. ters to learning and developing skills in Not pictured and completing the 7-credit Apply now. nutrition, behavioral health and traditional Rural Nutrition Leadership Academy: Alaska Native knowledge. Left to right: Phyllis Erhart (Tanana). November/December 2009 • The Council • Page 5 News for our People Congratulations to Skyler Edwin Tanana Chiefs Conference Human Miss FNA Princess 2009 Resources Report Skyler Edwin was crowned the LaVern Huntington, her bright earrings Continued from page 1... new employees. Currently the HR depart- Miss FNA Princess 2009, representing her were made by cousin Shawnda Johns, and privileges to assist people with enroll- ment is soliciting a Trooper background hometown village of Tanana, or Nuchala- her flower barrette was given by great- ing new employees, assisting or directing check prior to the President even seeing a woyya – “Where The Two Rivers Meet”. auntie Audrey Bonacci, her shiny crystal people to Brian Stevens, AIG Valic Rep- new hire PCN. When an applicant passes Skyler’s mother is Rachel Edwin of Ta- beaded necklace was made by Shirley resentative regarding their profit sharing, the interested persons report then an offer nana/Fairbanks, who continuously encour- Holmberg, her ivory ring was given to her and to provide reports to the required can be initiated. ages her to be the best that she can be, to by her mother, and her beaded bracelet entities. Barbara Sunday, Terri Paul- set goals, and to always strive for success was handed down from her auntie Renee Training Smoke, Gloria Riley, Ivan Kious and in her life. Her mother also teaches her to (Edwin) Opgenorth. Both Skyler and Currently Kevin Hinman has Kevin Hinman have attended trainings always show respect and Rachel would like to been sitting in on the training provided by relevant to their jobs as HR Generalists. love to people, animals, sincerely thank their the IT Department and he will take over Holly will also schedule training relevant and plants; basically life family members listed training supervisors on the terminations to her job duties. in general. And most above who helped in process. Supervisors have made com- Drug Testing & Fingerprinting importantly to love and providing the rega- ments that the process is user friendly. TCC is now contracting out the drug test- respect herself as an lia, and all of those Kevin has also committed to being cross- ing of new employees to ATT a local drug Athabascan lady. Our who were supportive trained in the benefits administration and testing agency. This has freed up the staff Miss FNA Princess has during the Miss FNA has updated a form to comply with the considerably. Kevin, Ivan, Barbara, Terri two younger siblings, Pageant. A huge changes to COBRA. Kevin continues to and Holly continue to fingerprint employ- they are Te’Shauna Turco thanks to LaVerne and fingerprint employees and prospective ees and prospective new employees. and Christopher Turco Marion Huntington, Jr.. Skyler’s maternal who helped without Remember Gun Safety During the grandparents are the late question; both ladies David and Emily Elia have very giving Holidays of Tanana, Judy Edwin- personalities and very By Jim Knopke, TCC VPSO/Security Director Stearman of Fairbanks/ kind hearts. Rachel As we celebrate the holidays arm in a safe direction, usually up. Never Tanana, and Percy Lol- and Skyler would also and Santa Clause has visited our children, put your finger on the trigger until you nitz of Koyukuk. like to say a special some will receive their very first firearm. areready to fire. These are simple rules to Attending her thank you to auntie Or some may receive new firearms from live by for everyone who uses a firearm. first year in Junior High, Debbie Ewan, who Santa and family. BE SAFE, AND BE INFORMED. Skyler enjoys visiting beaded with Rachel As these presents are given to The following information can be with her friends, playing until a half an hour our kids with expectations of many fond found on the link attached: the violin, reading a good before the pageant memories to come from spring hunts and http://www.wildlife.alaska.gov/index. book, all outdoor activi- was to take place. stories around moose camp lets not forget cfm?adfg=he.basic_ed ties throughout the year, In ending, to also “give” the gift of proper instruction attending potlatches and Skyler would like to go along with these presents. Proper Alaska Basic Hunter Education Course other Native events, eat- her big day to be in Gun safety messages should go with every Hunter Education is required for ing Native food, travel- loving memory of her firearm and early awareness will create hunters born AFTER January 1, 1986 who ing, computer time, and late cousin and God- a long standing respect for firearms and intend to hunt in Units 7, 13-15, and 20. watching movies with her family at home. Sister, Jasmin Rose Ewan. Jasmin stayed there use in our daily lives. Always treat Game Management Unit (GMU) Although Skyler lives in Fairbanks she with Skyler during the spring dog races every firearm as if it were loaded until you 20 covers a vast area of our region. Are “vacations” in Tanana every summer, vis- and conventions; she stood beside Skyler check it your self. Always point any fire you in GMU 20? iting all her friends and spending time at before, during, and after the FNA pag- fish camp with her auntie Georjeana Wal- eant and potlatch. Jasmin gave Skyler the lace and family, and favorite dog Scruffy. utmost support and care with her genuine Call for Ask the She says that Tanana is her favorite place love, her kindness, her beautiful smile, her Submissions! in the entire world and would love to live cute girly giggles which Skyler loved so Please continue to send in articles, President there some day! She also spends some much, and so many great memories that photos, artwork, letters to the editor, Skyler will never forget. Jasmin was a The Council will be starting a new sec- time in Sitka, her second favorite place, announcements or anything else you may with her Wallace family. There she learns very smart little girl, and very wise for her tion called “Ask the President” in which find relevant. about the culture, eats a lot of crab meat young age. She shared a lot with Sky- people can submit questions to the Coun- Please send written documents as and herring eggs, enjoys the different heri- ler about the universe, about life, about cil which Jerry Isaac, the current TCC tage offered, and once again spends time Native singing and dancing, and most Mircosoft Word files and photos as jpeg President, will answer via the Council with her favorite dog, Scruffy. importantly about the Lord Jesus Christ files. and through video postings on the TCC Skyler’s dress and beadwork, and whom she had a great love for. Skyler Submissions can be sent to: website. choker was made by her mother Rachel, said that she will never forget her cousin People can submit questions via the Tanana Chiefs Conference Jasmin and the many memories she made Council facebook page, by emailing the her beautiful slippers were made by her C/O of The Council auntie Georjeana Wallace, her gorgeous with her during her Miss FNA Princess 122 1st Avenue, Suite 600 Council editor at agatha.erickson@tanan- gloves were made by her great-auntie Pageant. So this is dedicated to Jasmin Fairbanks, AK 99701 achiefs.org or by mail: Marion Huntington of Koyukuk, her Rose Ewan, In Loving Memory, from or email submissions to the editor at: pretty knitted yarn socks were from cousin Skyler Edwin, Miss FNA Princess 2009! [email protected] Tanana Chiefs Conference C/O The Council The Council is looking to start featuring 122 1st Ave, Ste. 600 Address Update shareholder artwork. We are interested Fairbanks, AK 99701 If you have moved recently and would like to continue receiving The Council at your in all mediums of art including, but not new mailing address, please contact to update your mailing address: limited to: paintings, beading, basketry, Doyon Shareholder Records Start thinking of your questions! We hope photography, drawing or sculpture. If you to have this section up and running by the 1 Doyon Place, Suite 300 are an artist and are interested in having January issue of the Council. Fairbanks, Alaska 99701 your artwork featured in The Council, Phone: 907-459-2040 please send your work into the address email: [email protected] listed above. Page 6 • The Council • November/December 2009 News for our People Wishing a Healthy, Happy and Prosperous Holiday to You and Your Loved Ones from the Staff at Tanana Chiefs Conference

TCC Accounting and Finance Staff

Chena Bingo Staff

TCC Health Services Staff

TCC Information Systems Staff TCC Family and Employment Services Staff *Not all departments were available for group shots when during the production of this issue. November/December 2009 • The Council • Page 7 News for our People Report from the Interior Education Summit By Reva Shircel, TCC Director of Education “I need your help… and we need Borough School Superintendent, spoke Alaska. Susan Paskvan, Native Language items to be added to those developed at each other, if we are to come up with the to the students about the importance of Coordinator for the Yukon Koyukuk last year’s summit and addressed their kinds of education programs and poli- “the three A’s” necessary for a success- School District demonstrated language concerns regarding the current status of cies that make sense and really works for ful education: Attendance, Achievement immersion teaching techniques in one of the state’s educational systems as they re- our Tribal communities,” TCC President, and Attitude. She indicated that school her two innovative summit presentations late to youth in the Interior communities. Jerry Isaac said as he welcomed close to attendance had a strong influence in while staff from the Interior-Aleutians Rudy Hamilton, School Board President 200 educators, school board members, test success, and told students, parents, Campus shared with attendees the services of the Iditarod School District addressed administrators, students and tribal leaders teachers, family and friends to encour- and programs which are currently avail- the summit for the third consecutive year who filled the Chief David Salmon Tribal age all students to be in class every day. able through the University of Alaska sys- saying that three years ago when he first Hall November 18-19 for this year’s She explained that in education, success tem. Students from Grayling reported on attended the summit he told the crowd that Interior Education Summit. The annual breeds success, and when a student does their efforts to grow food locally and cre- he was done coming to these meetings event was Co-sponsored by the Interior well in one assignment, they become more ate a local business through a community and tired of just talking about the same chicken/egg production partnership they concerns over and over. “But there’s more

TCC Employees Robin Frank and Rachel Perkins present to the Summit Participates in the Summit listen to a presenter. on Education and Employment Opportunities developed. Other students from the Effie that needs to be done and meetings like Athabascan Tribal College (IATC) and the motivated to do well in others and develop Kockrine Charter School in Fairbanks this can move us forward,” he said, “That TCC Education Council, with technical a positive attitude about school and about reported on their school’s activities that is why I keep coming back.” support from TCC’s Education Depart- learning. She reported that the graduation teach subsistence skills. Bennett Madros, As the summit came to a close, ment. “You don’t see anything like this rate for Native students in Fairbanks was a sophomore at the Andrew K. Demoski TCC President, Jerry Isaac thanked anywhere else,” said the region’s state the students, educators, presenters and Representative Woodie Salmon, one of tribal leaders and members of the Interior the forum’s guest presenters. “You don’t Education Council and the Interior Atha- see any other regional organization having bascan Tribal College for their time and something like this,” Salmon said, “It ongoing efforts to improve the educational shows the commitment and dedication systems of the region and the state. “And I this region has to making Education a top want to give my special thanks to Orville priority, and I commend all the students, and Curtis, their board members, and TCC educators and chiefs, and each one of you staff,’” Isaac said, “for their willingness to for being here.” step up to the plate and not just talk about Orville Huntington and Curtis education, but to invest their valuable Sommer co-moderated the summit’s time and energy to make sure that there two-day agenda that spanned the gamut is a Summit like this to discuss education of education-related issues with presenta- so that we can better move these issues tions about pre-school and Head Start and forward, and always keep Education on elementary and secondary education pro- the top of our list of priorities here in the grams and practices. Native Language and Interior.” “TCC should always have a role Culture, immersion teaching techniques, Students attending the Summit answered various education related ques- in education,” said Isaac, “And as presi- student learning styles and teacher educa- tions to win prizes dent, I’m guaranteeing to you that TCC tion programs were also discussed during will continue to help in bringing people the summit, along with higher education, 47%, significantly lagging behind the 70% school in Nulato moderated a student together like this, and help in any way post-secondary, vocational training and graduation rate of their non-Native coun- panel consisting of students from Nenana, that we can.” “Every Chief that I’ve ever internship and apprentice programs that terparts, a stark indicator that much more Kaltag, Beaver, Tanana and Minto which known has talked about the importance of can offer students a start to high paying work is still needed to adequately address gave their perspectives about why youth education ,” “That’s one thing that I have careers. the high dropout rate of Native students. drop out of school, how to make schools learned, and that’s one thing that I will State of Alaska Labor Commis- Norman Wooten, Membership Services more student-friendly and what parents, always fight for,” Isaac told the crowd as sioner Click Bishop and Special Assistant Director for the Association of Alaska teachers, school principals and students the Education Summit concluded. to the Commissioner of Education, Marcy School Boards reminded participants that themselves can do to improve their For a CD and a copy of Action items of Herman, spoke about the state’s plans to schools belong to each community and schools and improve the quality of this year’s Interior Education Summit, “grow its own” 21st Century labor force that the principle of local control is deeply education. please contact Reva Shircel, TCC Educa- and provide its young minds with the tools embedded throughout state statute regard- After listening to the present ers, tion Director, at reva.shircel@tananach- and skills needed for Alaska’s future. Dr. ing the public educational system in summit attendees proposed action iefs.org. Nancy Wagner, Fairbanks North Star Page 8 • The Council • November/December 2009 News for our People Introducing DNH Inc, President The Interior Regional Energy Plan Dell Wilson by Ross Coen, Rural Energy Specialist Dell Wilson was recently hired as construction industry working for Alyeska The TCC Energy Program takes reducing fossil fuel consumption by 25%, the new President/CEO of DNH Inc. and HC Price and eventually becoming a major step forward this month with and increasing use of renewable energy DNH Inc. started over 30 years President of Ahtna Construction in 2000. the publication of the Interior Regional sources by 25% by the year 2020. ago as a company under Tanana Chiefs He has a history of taking small compa- Energy Plan, a document that identifies Ross Coen, TCC Rural Energy Conference. The name DNH stands nies, growing them and reaping profits opportunities for energy development, Specialist, states that Interior communi- for Dena Nena Henash the Athabascan along the way. Dell has never lost money efficiency improvements, and policy ties cannot afford to maintain the status language meaning “Our Land Speaks” in any company he has managed in his creation, and provides a process in which quo and continue paying such high energy The Company was dormant for many career. residents and communities can work costs. “A study by the Institute of Social years and recently revived Dell was working for towards an energy vision for their region. and Economic Research shows that rural in 2008. Its sole vision BP Exploration in Anchor- Prepared in conjunction with the Alaska villages are on track to spend about $500 is to provide a profitable age for the last three years Center for Energy and Power (ACEP) at million on electric, heating, and trans- collection of subsidiary before being presented the University of Alaska Fairbanks, the portation costs in the next twenty years. companies offering a the opportunity to join report provides information on a range That’s if we do nothing. So let’s do some- variety of superior goods DNH as the president in of energy issues, such as diesel genera- thing!” and services to tribal and mid 2009. “I was excited tor efficiency, weatherization of homes “It is also important to remem- non-tribal customers. at the opportunity ” I’m a and public buildings, and the potential for ber,” says Coen, “that this Interior Re- DNH Inc. will believer in the mission of alternative and renewable energy sources. gional Energy Plan is a first-draft, working provide TCC with profits DNH which is to provide Jill Maynard, a research tech- document that is meant to be revised as that will in turn benefit all jobs and stimulate the nician at ACEP and one of the report’s the energy situation in our region changes. tribal members in the TCC economic development in co-authors, believes the plan’s focus on We expect the goals and recommendations region in the form of eco- the TCC region, while also people and communities is just as im- will change to reflect the immediate and nomic & social develop- providing profits back to portant as the information it contains long-term needs of people in the villages.” ment, physical and mental TCC. on energy. “The plan offers a vision for Putting the plan together was a wellness and educational There are three divisions sustaining healthy communities by in- five-month process that involved com- and job opportunities. We are proud to be under DNH Inc. DNH Fuels LLC, DNH creasing energy efficiency, expanding the munity meetings around the TCC region able to directly benefit the tribal members Construction LLC, and DNH Manage- use of local energy resources in a sustain- where Coen and staff from UAF discussed to preserve our traditional and cultural ment services LLC. We are looking at able manner, and developing the regional the planning process and solicited input values. expanding quite rapidly with opportunities capacity to design and maintain new and from residents. Questionnaires were Dell is a Doyon shareholder from on the Gas line, Oil pipeline and other existing power systems.” distributed to all tribal administrators, Kenny Lake and a graduate of AK Pacific future large projects such as the Super The plan contains twenty-five city managers, and utility operators in University with a BA degree in Busi- Clinic in Fairbanks. recommendations for local, regional, all forty-two TCC villages. A steering ness Management. He is the son of Dean DNH will be working on devel- and statewide decision-makers over both committee composed of energy stakehold- Wilson the fur buyer and Ada Wilson oping our workforce into the near future short- and long-term time frames. These ers from around the state also convened from Mansfield-Ketchumstock. His first and providing many opportunities for the recommendations fall in six areas—build- several times during the planning process. venture out of college was working for tribal members of the TCC region. ing efficiency, power generation, heating, Copies of the Interior Regional AK Commercial Company and becoming Dell can be reached at 907.561.3364 or transportation, education and outreach, Energy Plan are being mailed to all tribes the branch manager for Fort Yukon in the email [email protected] and future planning. Short-term goals and city governments. For more informa- early 90’s. Later on he moved into the include improving the energy efficiency tion, please contact: Ross Coen (907-452- of all buildings and power plants in the 8251, ext.3479; ross.coen@tananachiefs. Tanana Chiefs Conference region, while major long-term goals are org). Restricted Land Survey DNH Fuels Can Deliver Your Needs Assessment Tanana Chiefs Conference Realty Department would like to know your sur- LIHEAP Energy Assistance Heating vey needs. Every year, the federal government has a limited amount of funding to help Fuel certain landowners (Native allotments and Native Restricted Townsites) with their sur- By Howard Darling, General Managers, DNH Fuels, LLC vey needs. Cadastral Automated Survey Request (CARS) is a system that the federal government uses to prioritize and rank the needs of certain land boundary situations highway connected communities of Cen- that could become a problem if the land was not surveyed. If you are a restricted land In our efforts of working closer tral, Circle, Dot Lake, Nenana, Northway, owner and have the following situations and would like your land surveyed: with our member communities TCC and Tanacross, Tetlin and Tok. DNH will later o My land is not surveyed DNH Fuels would like to take this op- look to finding new ways for delivering o Monuments or brass caps are missing portunity to deliver the annual LIHEAP cheaper fuel to all TCC members. o The river or water movement has eroded away boundary markers energy assistance heating fuel themselves. Its important to note that TCC o A structure appears to be encroaching on my property DNH Fuels is coordinating with TCC’s Energy Assistance program recipients who o A road or other access crosses my property without my permission Client Development Department to cus- have already applied for assistance this o There is a boundary dispute between my parcel and the adjacent landowner tomize a delivery schedule for those tribal year can contact TCC and change their o I am concerned about Cultural Resource Protection (Example: Graves or members living along Alaska’s Highway choice of fuel vendor if they wish to. Historical Dwellings) systems. Current and Future Development This will allow those highway To set up a delivery or for any inquiries, o Would like to partition the Native Allotment (If multiple landowners, ALL connected families to stretch their funding please call 907-750-0874 or toll free at landowners must be in agreement to partition) for the maximum fuel amount per dollar 1-877-561-3364. DNH Fuels strives to re- o Would like to subdivide for the following purposes: Gift Deed, Lease, Sales, possible. That means that families along duce the cost of heating for all TCC Tribal Distribution of land by will the highway system will receive more of the needed heating fuel than is possible by Members. Please call DNH Fuels for all your fuel needs. If you would like your Native Allotment needs submitted in the Cadastral other fuel companies during this time of Automated Request System (CARS) for the years 2010-2011, please contact Linda economic downturn. Beginning with the Evans, Realty Specialist at 1-800-478-6822 x3242. November/December 2009 • The Council • Page 9 Family Services A Family Reunited 2009 TFYS Training By Debbie Mitchelle, Tribal Enrollment Specialist by Nettie Warbelow, TCC Child Protection Coordinator Continued from Page 1.... ington is one of the many states where On November 10th – 12th TCC Kim Miller. “ TCC Legal/Village Col- -dren because of the history of discon- adoption records are sealed. The adoptee Child Protection held their Annual Fall laboration”, Natasha Singh & Christine nection from cultures. In state adoptions, and birth parents, or anyone else for that TFYS Training at the Westmark Fair- Woodward. Evaluation and Closing. agencies are now required to follow the matter, are prohibited from seeing the banks. We had an excellent turn out and The participants received two federal Indian Child Welfare Act which records. The woman was retired from the the participation was fantastic. Main different certificates for completing this allows tribes to intervene in adoptions BIA and provided the service as a skilled subjects that was covered throughout the 3 training. (Positive Indian Parenting) and involving Indian children. volunteer, who knows and works within days are: (Mandated Reporting) The Positive Indian I don’t think Jeffrey’s motivation the system to get what her clients need. Tuesday November 10-th Open- Parenting Can now be taught in the Vil- for becoming tribally enrolled was wholly I received the confidential adop- ing Prayer, Welcome & overview of Agen- lages by the TFYS to Village Members, specifically to find his culture, but it did tion information from the volunteer in da by Don Shircel and Jerry Isaac. “Posi- Health Aides and Village Tribal Councils. play a part. He wanted to register at the Seattle. It was definitely odd to have in tive Indian Parenting Training” was held I would like to say thank you CAIHC, because he didn’t have health my possession information that had the for 1 ½ days, Sophia Stevens –Rustad and to all the Participants from the Villages insurance. potential to change lives in a very per- Nettie Warbelow . “Healthy Families”, and the Presenters. My great apprecia- Jeffrey offered only a limited sonal way. Jeffrey showed no concern or Sara Battles. “The 5th Degree for ASAP”, tion goes out to my staff members Denise amount of information about himself in apprehension. Apparently he’d come to Leisha Rice and Roxanne Sourapas. “ Callahan, Sophia Stevens-Rustad, Kathy the beginning, but with each visit to my terms with dealing with whatever was to Child Protection and how it works”,Nettie Halverson, Mishal Gaede and Sarah office he would say more about his life. happen. Warbelow “ Mandated reporting/Child Battles this success would not have been He said he’d been “in recovery” from After researching the birth Protection and Foster Care Recruitment”, possible without you. Thank you and I substance abuse for a few years and he mother’s name I found her tribe. I con- Deb Hayes & Kathy Halverson.” CASA”, look forward to the Spring TFYS Confer- credited a lot of it to a friendship that was tacted the tribe to see if I could verify ence. lost some years prior to him coming to without disclosing names that Jeffrey met Alaska. He and his best friend from high the requirements to become enrolled. The school had a dream of racing stock cars tribe said no, but only two of them would and owning muscle cars. His friend had act as verifiers for the council at the tribal built a few cars, and had even raced some, council meeting, so confidential informa- but had died in an accident that involved tion was kept as such as much as possible. alcohol summer not only because he I know it’s always the tribe’s decision loved cars, but out of a remembrance of a to determine their membership, so that friendship that was lost too soon. worked out fine. On another visit he said he could Before I officially sent the infor- afford his own place but he preferred to mation to the tribe I wanted to first let the live in a group home situation with others birth mother know that her son was taking in recovery, because that kept the tempta- steps to become enrolled to her tribe. tion at bay. The meetings he attended After careful consideration and talking to were routine and he went through the several different people I sent a letter to steps, but if he went home to an empty the birth mother in care of Doyon because apartment, it would become too much. He I had no idea of what her address was. knew the living situation worked for him, Several days later I received a call from so that’s how he lived. He said he wanted a very excited birth mother. Through the Arlene Joseph from Fort Yukon takes a moment to play with her son Steven during the to live a sober life and he was doing what years she had always remembered him Annual TFYS training it took to make it happen. at birthdays and Christmas in her own On one of the visits to my of- way and her other children took the news Family Violence Prevention fice (he came by several times), Jeffrey of an unknown sibling positively. The By Sarah Battles, Tribal First Responders Coordinator brought in a name and phone and fax mother and son connected through phone numbers of a woman in Seattle who as- calls and made arrangements to meet in Alaska has one of the high- attorney general, Dan Sullivan, promised sisted Indians in finding their tribes. She Fairbanks to share a cup of coffee and est rates of Domestic Violence and the offenders will be aggressively prosecuted had managed to get the original birth to go from there. They also stopped by highest for Sexual Assaults per capita in and shown no leniency. certificate of his from Washington State my office to share that their reunion was the Nation. The Tribal First Responders “Those who might otherwise be but would fax it only to a tribal office that going well. They were pleased and I was Program is in place to educate on these tempted to abuse Alaska’s women and needed it for enrollment purposes. Wash- happy for them. issues as well as to provide advocacy for children will come to realize that Alaska victims. We are currently working with 23 has turned into the last state in which you villages; Alatna, Allakaket, Anvik, Arctic want to go on trial for domestic violence Announcement from TCC Village, Beaver, Circle, Evansville, Fort or sexual assault,” stated Sullivan. There Yukon, Grayling, Holy Cross, Hughes, are some sobering statistics regarding DV/ Tribal Enrollment Services and the Kaltag, Manley, McGrath, Minto, Ne- SA in our state; Women in Alaska are 1.5 nana, Northway, Nulato, Ruby, Shageluk, times more likely to be killed by a partner, Chalkyitsik Tribal Council Takotna, Tanacross, and Venetie. I will be 2.5 times more likely to be raped, and traveling to each of these communities to child sexual abuse is 6 times the national The Chalkyitsik Tribal Council announces that Chalkyitsik update protocol, meet with the communi- average. Tribal Members can now get tribal cards from the TCC Tribal Enroll- ty, and discuss what we can do to prevent During the 2009 TFYS Training, ment Office on the 2nd floor of the Chief Peter John Tribal Build- both Domestic Violence and Sexual As- I gave a small presentation on the effects ing. Debbie from the Enrollment Office will be making a trip to saults from happening in the first place. children may have from witnessing Do- Recently Governor Sean Parnell mestic Violence, what roles our traditional Chalkyitsik in the near future. Some files for members are not com- publicly announced a new plan for pros- values play in what we teach our children, plete so it’s suggested that members in Fairbanks who wish to get ecuting offenders of Domestic violence, and how our communities respond to a card are urged to call first to see if they need to bring their birth sexual assault, and child sexual abuse. victims of these crimes. certificate or other documentation. The phone number is 452-8251, “We are going to end the epidemic of If you are a victim of any of these ext. 3274. domestic violence and sexual assault in crimes or simply wish to have more infor- this state within a decade. No longer will mation on DV/SA, please contact Sarah Alaska lead in that statistic.” Parnell’s Battles at 452-8251 ext. 3132. Page 10 • The Council • November/December 2009 Health Services TCC Health Services Annual General Staff Meeting By Susie Frantz, Health Services Executive Secretary The Health Services Department employees were asked to submit nomina- Recognition was provided to the following award winners: held it’s annual general staff meeting on tions for six awards to the Health Manage- November 20, 2009, at the David Salmon ment Team. Numerous nominations were Tribal Hall. Over 150 Health employees received and the Health Management were in attendance. Andrew Jimmie, TCC Team found it very difficult to select only Regional Health Board President and six employees for the identified awards. Jerry Isaac, TCC President, addressed the The six award categories were: group. Dr. Bird, Dental Director, Jacoline Creative Problem Solving: This reflects Bergstrom, Quality Management Director someone that has come up with ideas that and Jodi Trojan, Behavioral Health Pro- have been implemented to resolve identi- gram Evaluator, provided overviews on fied issues/problems. Dental, Innovations in Planned Care and Best Customer Service: This re- the Screening, Brief Intervention, Refer- flects someone who is respectful, helpful, ral & Treatment Program. Victor Joseph, consistent and responsive. Health Director, provided an overview of Above and Beyond: This reflects various health initiatives and focused on someone with a positive work ethic that driving our theme on customer service. takes initiative to go beyond regular du- Various staff that have demonstrated good ties. customer service were recognized, those Mission Impossible: This re- staff were: flects someone who takes and completes something that seems unachieveable. Bill McAnulty, RN Dedication to Mission: This Dr. Andrew Wappett, Dental reflects someone whose work most Sarah Malamute, RN exemplifies the Health mission, which is: Leda Cruger, CHAP Program Assistant II TCC Health Services, In Partnership with Center: Creative Above Right: Above Elizabeth Pawelco, Behavioral Health Those We Serve, Promotes and Enhances Problem Solving and Beyond Award, Clinician Spiritual, Physical, Mental and Emotional Award, Dan An- Michelle Kenneth, Dental Assistant Wellness Through Education, Prevention Greg Calvert, Deputy derson, Biomedical Marilyn Turvey, PWH Coordinator/Lead and the Delivery of Quality Services. Director, Office of Director Case Manager Dr. James Award: This reflects Environmental Health someone who is hard working and confi- In addition to this Health Ser- dent! The Dr. James award is considered Bottom Right: Dedi- vices hosted an award ceremony. Health the highest award category. cation to Mission Above Left: the “Dr. Award, Mike Dem- James Award” went oski, Deputy Dental Award to: Mary Jo Reyn- Assistant Supervisor Nominees olds, CAIHC RN also re- Bottom Left: Best ceived roses Customer Service in recogni- Award, Verna Tittle, tion of their Behavioral Health services Medical Reception- ist

Doctor James holds up a pair of beaded moccasins given to honor his service to TCC.

Not Pictured: Mission Impossible Award, Bruce Atkinson, CHP, Eagle November/December 2009 • The Council • Page 11 Health Services Routine Screening for Mental Managing Diabetes: It’s Not Easy, Health & Substance Abuse Now But It’s Worth It Done at CAIHC By the National Diabetes Education Program in conjunction with TCC From TCC Health Services Health Services If you have recently gone to least once a year. By encouraging health Chief Andrew Isaac Health Center for care professionals to identify at-risk If you have diabetes, you know Managing diabetes isn’t easy, but it’s medical needs, you may have been asked populations and intervene early, we can the day-to-day steps needed to manage worth it. The National Diabetes Educa- a series of 5 questions about substance significantly reduce the abuse of alcohol diabetes can be hard. Diabetes can lead to tion Program (NDEP) offers tips to help. use or emotional concerns. The clinic staff and addiction to drugs among individuals. serious health problems, such as blind- The first step is to set a goal for yourself. who ask these questions work as part of The Seyeets Nazoonh program ness, loss of limb, kidney failure, heart Choose something that is important to you a new program initiative called Seyeets adds a Screener, Client Support Assistant, disease, and early death. Managing diabe- and that you believe you can do. Then Nazoonh. This program is part of a Behavioral Health Consultant and a Lead tes can be easier if you set goals and make make a plan by choosing the small steps federal Screening, Brief Intervention, and Behavioral Health Consultant to the staff a plan. you will take For example, start working Referral to Treatment (SBIRT) initiative at CAIHC and a Health Educator and People who keep their A1C towards getting 30 minutes of physical ac- through the Substance Abuse and Mental Pre-Treatment Case Manager at TCC Be- below 7 in the early years after they are tivity, such as brisk walking, most days of Health Services Administration (SAMH- havioral Health Department. These staff diagnosed with diabetes have fewer prob- the week. If you have not been very active SA). This initiative is designed to help in assist with the following new services: lems with their eyes, nerves, and kidneys, in the past, start slowly and try adding a the prevention and early intervention of • Screening quickly assesses the sever- and have fewer heart attacks later in life. few minutes each day. Ask others for help behavioral health concerns. TCC wrote ity of substance use and identifies the Your A1C measures your blood glucose with your plan. for and was awarded this 10 million, 5 appropriate level of intervention (blood sugar) over time. Most people, NDEP has free resources that can year grant in October 2008. TCC is only • Brief intervention focuses on increas- especially those who have just been help. For more information on managing the second Tribal applicant to ever receive ing insight and awareness regarding diagnosed, should aim for an A1C of less diabetes, order a free copy of 4 Steps to this grant award in the 7 years it has ex- substance use and motivation toward than 7. If you have had diabetes for a long Control Your Diabetes. For Life. from the isted. behavioral changes that will reduce time, have other health problems, or have National Diabetes Education Program at SBIRT is a comprehensive, inte- risk related to health consequences. problems with low blood sugar, your A1C www.YourDiabetesInfo.org or call 1-888- grated, public health approach to the de- • Referral to treatment provides those target may be higher than 7. Talk with 693-NDEP (6337); TTY: 1-866-569-1162. livery of early intervention and treatment identified as needing more extensive your health care team about your blood The U.S. Department of Health services for persons at risk of developing treatment with access to speciality glucose targets. Yours may be different and Human Services’ National Diabetes substance use disorders or those currently care. from others. Education Program is jointly sponsored with substance use disorders, but not yet SBIRT research has shown that Diabetes management is not by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) engaged in services. Primary care centers, large numbers of individuals at risk of just about your blood glucose. Keeping and the Centers for Disease Control and hospital emergency rooms, trauma cen- developing serious alcohol or other drug your blood pressure and cholesterol under Prevention (CDC) with the support of ters, and other community settings provide problems may be identified through pri- control can lower your risk for heart at- more than 200 partner organizations. opportunities for early intervention with mary care screening. Interventions such as tack and stroke as well as other diabetes NDEP’s Control Your Diabetes. at-risk substance users before more severe SBIRT have been found to: problems. Take your medicines that are For Life. campaign seeks to reach the consequences occur. Substance abuse is • Decrease the frequency and severity working to control blood pressure and nearly 24 million Americans with dia- one of our Nation’s, as well as our com- of drug and alcohol use, cholesterol. Talk with your health care betes, and their families, with messages munity’s, most significant public health • Reduce the risk of trauma, and team about taking control of your blood about the seriousness of diabetes, ways challenges. It destroys lives, undermines • Increase the percentage of patients pressure and cholesterol. to control the disease, and the benefits of families, and costs hundreds of billions who enter specialized substance controlling diabetes for life. of dollars annually in health care, legal, abuse treatment. workplace, and other expenses. In addition to decreases in sub- A key aspect of SBIRT is the stance abuse, screening and brief inter- integration and coordination of screening ventions have also been associated with If you or someone you know would like and treatment components into a system fewer hospital days and fewer emergency of services. This system links a com- department visits. Cost-benefit analyses help with quitting your tobacco use, you’re munity’s specialized treatment programs and cost-effectiveness analyses have in luck! There are resources out there to with a network of early intervention and demonstrated net-cost savings from these help people who wish to quit. referral activities that are conducted in interventions. medical and social service settings. De- If you have any questions about tecting health risks caused by substance the SBIRT initiative or Seyeets Nazoonh The State of Alaska Tobacco Quit Line can use or emotional health concerns saves program, please contact Siobhan Lynch be reached at 1-888-842-7848 lives. Over 95% of individuals in need of or Victor Joseph at Tanana Chiefs Confer- They offer Free NRT for up to 3 months intervention but who did not receive it are ence main offices (452-8251). One on One Support unaware that they need help and have not If you would like to receive any of the sought helped from a health care profes- services offered through SBIRT you may They are free and confidential sional (NSDUH 2007). The majority of request a screening at CAIHC or speak Americans see a health care provider at with our medical provider. Chief Andrew Isaac Health Center: Tobacco Cessation Program Can be reached at 451-6682 x 3779 or 1800-478-6682 x 3779 Tobacco Cessation Program Free NRT One on One support Follow up services for up to one year Page 12 • The Council • November/December 2009 Announcements

The Council on

The Council is now on Facebook! Here is the link to the Council Facebook webpage:

http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Council- Newsletter/139784249125?ref=nf

Become a fan and invite your friends to become fans. Stay updated with all that is happening at TCC through posts, event listings and photo uploads!

WANTED: Moose and

Caribou Antlers Rudy and his cousin, Faylynn Hualapai Tribe The concrete pedestal for the antler arch is in place outside the Morris Peach Springs, AZ Thompson Cultural and Visitors Center in Fairbanks. Now we need more than 100 moose and caribou antlers to create the arch! We would I made a plan. It wasn’t easy, but I did it. So can you. like to get antlers from every village in , and we’d love to get antlers from our arctic neighbors too! A sign on the arch will It’s not easy, but it’s worth it.

recognize all participating communities. If you can help, please call People who learn to manage their diabetes from the start have fewer health problems from 907.459.3701 or email [email protected]. We will diabetes years later. You can too. Learn how to better manage your diabetes. Order a free booklet, 4 Steps to Control Your Diabetes. For Life. from the National Diabetes Education Program to learn more. pay $2 per pound and will make shipping arrangements. Or you can just drop off your antlers at the Morris Thompson Center. For more information, visit www.YourDiabetesInfo.org or call 1-888-693-NDEP (6337); TTY: 1-866-569-1162.

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ National Diabetes Education Program (NDEP) is jointly sponsored by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) with the support of more than 200 partner organizations.

LAW ENFORCEMENT ACADEMY Valentine’s Event –Evening of Fun! When:February 13, 2009 SCHOLARSHIPS Where: Tanana Chiefs Conference Tribal Hall FOR ALASKA NATIVES Youth Talent Contest (ages 4-17)

WHO: ALL Alaska Natives Native Fashion Show (all ages)

WHAT: Three $7,200 Doyon Foundation Scholarships available to attend the University of Alaska Fairbanks Tanana Valley Campus Law Enforcement Academy (LEA) Searching for Native Talent. Ages: 4-17. Prizes will be given to all WHERE: Fairbanks, Alaska participants. Group, Individual or Duet, applications are being accepted! WHEN: Scholarship Application Deadline—5pm, Friday, January 15, 2010 Training Dates—February 15 through May 14, 2010. The evening will begin with a youth talent contest. Please call for official rules. Applications for the talent contest must be submitted no-later-than HOW: 1-20-2010. The second event will be a fashion show featuring Native • Submit a completed LEA application packet (Available at www.doyonfoundation.com) Traditional Fashion, and Native Contemporary Fashion, and an evening • Commitment to 13 weeks (40 hour weeks) in Fairbanks gown Glamour Fashion Show. Models have been selected from the com- • Must have a valid Alaska Drivers License munity, and include all ages and backgrounds. The last part of the event • Must pass a criminal background check • Be free of any felonies or domestic violence convictions will be a dance. • Must pass a drug test • Recommended age is 21 years old, however, students between 18 Vendor booths will be available featuring native art. and 21 will be considered

Funds for these scholarships are provided by the Alyeska Pipeline Service Company Alaska Native Program. For a talent contest application and/or more information contact: Carol Rose at 452-8251 Ext 3414 For more information or for an application, contact the Doyon Foundation at: Sharon Thompson at 799-4007 Direct: 907.459.2049 Racheal Hayton at 799-1525 Toll Free: 1.888.478.4755 x 2049 E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.doyonfoundation.com Applications must be received no later than 1-20-2010. Blog: www.doyonfoundationblog.com