2004 Convention Exciting and Historical

THE COUNCIL • PAGE 1 Non-profit Organization U.S. Postage PAID Anchorage, AK Permit No. 537

D e n a ’ N e n a ’ H e n a s h O u r L a n d S p e a k s

VOL. 29, NO. 4 A REPORT TO THE MEMBER TRIBES OF THE TANANA CHIEFS CONFERENCE APRIL 2004 2004 Convention exciting and historical Josephine Semaken taught Aaron members are Edna Peters, Sylvia Pitka, and through the Alaska Native Policy Center (an Solomon,Grayling Youth Delegate, Sarah Oskolkoff. initiative of First Alaskans Institute), called and Jameson Yoder, Anvik Youth The TCC Employees of the Year, Paula “Our Choices-Our Future” and was Delegate, the finer points of making Harris and Janet Abbe, will be featured in presented at the convention by Greta Goto, Indian ice cream for the potlatch. the May issue. (Yupik) Director of Alaska Native Policy Center, and Byron Mallott, (Tlingit) A ground-breaking project has been audience prior to any speeches during a underway at the First Alaskans Institute potlatch. After speaking in Gwich’in, he continued on page 5... said with a chuckle, “Good thing you don’t understand.” The Denakkanaaga The convention theme was “United Board from left to for Tribal Sovereignty” and really unified right: Poldine Carlo the several issues facing the region. A (Nulato/Fairbanks), number of significant leaders spoke Edna Ketzler during the day; Governor Murkowski (Nenana), Oline The major event during the 2004 presented awards for Native-hire Petruska (Nikolai), Annual Convention was the formal businesses in the region, pursued the gas Don Honea (Ruby), recognition of Traditional Chief Reverend line topic, and endorsed boarding school David Salmon and the Denakkanaaga education as an alternative to diminished Jonathon Solomon Board’s selection of a Second Chief. A educational dollars. (Fort Yukon), and Raymond Dutchman discussion was held the first day with an Health and Social Services (Shageluk). open mic period to allow delegates to voice Commissioner Joel Gilbertson discussed a their opinions. Mike Fleagle said it was proposed health facility for Alaska Natives important to have a “humble leader, a in the future. As is custom, Senator servant; one who isn’t concerned about Georgianna Lincoln, Representative Albert Reverend David Salmon recognized as ‘climbing up’ and is a spiritual person who Kookesh, Representative Carl Morgan Jr., is a respecter of people.” Minto Chief Andy Doyon President Orie Williams, Fairbanks Traditional Chief Jimmie said that a second chief should be Native Association Executive Director able to offer “traditional advice, good, solid Shirley Lee, and Alaska Federation of The TCC region is honored to officially advice to the E-Board.” Minto Elder Luke Natives President Julie Kitka updated Titus requested a second chief be “mindful acknowledge Reverend David Salmon as delegates on statewide concerns and issues our Traditional Chief. With Chief Peter of everybody [in the region], one who needs relevant to their positions. to use a way to think of not only the future John’s passing in August 2003, Reverend but how to bring the past with us, the culture Elections took place during convention David Salmon graciously steps into the with us.” Tanacross leader Jerry Isaac said and several community leaders obtained position of ambassador of traditional the second chief has to be an Elder, who has new positions. The new Alaska Federation knowledge and guidance for our people. knowledge of traditions within the Interior. of Natives TCC Village Representative is A Gwich’in Athabascan who grew up Denakkanaaga Board member/Elder Alex Will Mayo. The Interior Regional Housing living a traditional lifestyle in Chalkyitsik, Sinyon of Tetlin said “We want to look up Authority elected two board members; Reverend David Salmon has traveled to someone who can get us through the Woody Salmon, Chalkyitsik, was elected to extensively throughout Interior Alaska for good times and bad.” Ultimately, those Seat C while Pat McCarty, Ruby, was elected the Episcopal Church since being the first characteristics can be found in Franklin to Seat D. Gwich’in ordained in 1962. With a formal Madros Sr. who was welcomed warmly on TCC had several seats up for election, education that lasted just two years, he refers the final day of convention, followed by a Executive Board Vice President Jerry Isaac, to the Sears-Robuk catalog as his first potlatch for both chiefs that evening. Tanacross, was reelected as was Mickey schoolbook, “I learned all the tools, all the Celebration and humor followed the Stickman, Nulato, for Secretary/Treasurer. machines in that book.” evening potlatch, as Franklin Madros Sr. Executive Board Subregional seats were Spending his early years in the woods, said “Do as I say, not as I do!” and applause filled by Tony Alexia for the Upper he was a trapper and freighter. His first job drowned out the laughter. Traditional Chief Kuskokwim, Eugene Paul for Lower Yukon, paid 25 cents an hour. He was married to Sarah for 59 years before her passing 13 years Reverend David Salmon issued a firm and Ted Charles for the Upper Tanana ago. They have two children, William Salmon and Sarah Henry, five grandchildren, and command that chiefs are to address the subregion. The TCC Health Board 12 great-grandchildren. A treasure to his culture and a model for all Alaskans, Revered David Salmon was Graduate Photo Request awarded an honorary doctorate from the University of Alaska, Fairbanks (UAF), in 2002 and has shared his knowledge of traditional hunting tools and lifestyle as an Elder-In- DEADLINE: May 14 Residence for UAF. He is a Master Toolmaker who has several canoes and tools on display Graduate Information Needed: at UAF and at the Doyon Building. He is currently working on a book of his life story. Full name, parents, grandparents, and home community Franklin Madros Sr. is 2nd Traditional Chief It’s getting to be that time of year again-we’d like to feature our 2004 college, high school, voc-ed, elementary, or other graduates. There are several technicalities involved; The following speech was made for his mailing me hard copy photos is best but here’s how to send me a jpeg or tiff image via father by Franklin Madros Jr. during the email at [email protected]. TCC Potlach to welcome both chiefs. This • Do not crop your image, I have to adjust the resolution (quality) is a condensed version. significantly; I will not accept photos smaller than 4 x 6 inches. • If you think the photo is blurry, chances are I cannot fix it. Please send a My father was the first child born in quality image, otherwise it will be declined. the newly-located village of Kaltag 84 years • Last, send it as an attachment to your email-do not embed it directly into ago, which was moved three miles from the your email otherwise I cannot retrieve it. former site. He witnessed the growth of • If you can mail me a hard copy, I’ll return it promptly in a hard envelope. Kaltag from his birth; not only did he I will not accept any after the May 14 deadline. Please include your full name and witness the growth, he became a part of it. contact number in case I have questions. The mailing information is listed on As many of our young men today, he helped page 2 of this newsletter. the Elders and the other men build log cabin In all cases, group photos are best as I have limited space. It would be ideal to homes for the residents. All of it was It seems as though all of my life I’ve feature as much of the region as possible, not just a few villages. Telephone numbers voluntary work since there was no source are listed on page 2 of this newsletter. seen my father involved in some form of of income back then. He the served in the development of our village. Be it the I reserve the right to select or reject material based on quality, size, and based Army during World War II, an construction of our airport in the early 60’s, upon a first-come, first-serve basis. I will not accept late submissions. accomplishment that he is very proud of. continue d on page 5... PAGE 2 • THE COUNCIL • APRIL 2004 LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Dear Editor, Dear Editor, First I would like to thank TCC for all Letters to the Editor Our University of Alaska, Fairbanks, Rural Human Services Counseling class was the resources they are providing, like the honored to be invited to Howard Luke’s Gaalee’ya Spirit Camp. We want to take the Dental, Employment, Education, and the must stay within opportunity to thank Mr. Luke for allowing us to visit his camp; for sharing his stories rehabilitation services, called Old Minto, 300-500 words. For and experiences with us. His book “My Own Trail,” gave us images that we experienced which is one of my favorites. I would also while approaching Howard’s home and camp. His welcoming presence made the sun like to thank all of the people in New Minto for providing the place where people can questions about shine brightly. He was quick to make us feel at home and got right to explaining the history change their lives. I myself am a recovering behind his camp. The day was very warming and spiritual; he is indeed an exceptional alcoholic/addict, but without places like your submission, individual, offering so much to not only the community he lives in but to the entire state those, I may have never known about my contact the editor at of Alaska. His warm and caring nature was evident the first moment we met him. problem. Rehabilitation for Native people If people in the Fairbanks area ever have the opportunity to access this great wealth of is hard because of the peer pressure, role numbers listed knowledge, you really should. We highly recommend this journey and you would make an models, memories, and lack of faith in Jesus Elder feel so valued. Thank you, Howard, for sharing your knowledge and wisdom. You Christ. One of my main problems is that I below. touch a lot of people’s hearts and you make them feel welcome. Your camp brought a lot falter when I see the women that I love most of all fall into temptation. of memories from back home. Some participants said “It really made me miss our family camp, just seeing the small cabins, smoke house, and trees all over. It was a blast from the I’ve realized over the years that I need Dear Editor, past” and “Thank you, Grandpa Howard, you brought back precious memories of my to lean more on Jesus and not depend so much on my own understanding. When a I am writing to commend Ann John, child hood.” person quits a drug or drinking, they must Health Aide from Beaver, Alaska. In all the We were very honored to have walked on your lands, and to meet an honored Elder. do it for themselves because doing it for years I’ve been getting sick and living in so Thank you so much for these memories, for welcoming us to your lifestyle. Our hope is someone else isn’t going to help at all. I try much pain, this was only the second time I that we will be able to spend more time at your camp and visit with you more. Now that to do it for myself but I am one of those was helped and taken care of in such a we know where your camp is we will come back to visit and listen to your stories. God people that can’t do it without the strength Bless you always. of God. My dad has been clean for nine professional and prompt manner. On years and I’m so proud of him because I January 21, I was so sick and in so much Anaa Baasee’, Love and prayers from our class, remember when life was hardest. I’ve seen a pain. I called the Ruby clinic for help because George K. Anungazuk (Wales/Gambell), Kathleen Bragg (Anchorage), Brandy Christensen lot of my family and close friends die from I couldn’t get out of bed that day. Ann was (Petersburg), Peter Martin Jr. (Stebbins), Denise Roy (Sitka), Josephine Semaken drugs and alcohol and I wonder when here in Ruby as an Itinerant Health Aide (Galena/Fairbanks), Brenda Wilson (King Cove), and Tanya Yatlin (Fairbanks/Huslia) everyone will realize what its doing. and she knew from the sound of my voice My grandfathers were Ray Clark and that I was in severe pain. She did not hesitate Dear Editor, Jimmy Huntington and my grandmothers to contact Chief Andrew Isaac Health Lowell Kokrine has completed two years of schooling at Universal Technical Institute, were and are Flora Elliott and Hilda Clark. Center without having me go to the clinic, I My mother is Rosemarie Dawn Clark and in Phoenix, Arizona, and graduated on July 17, 2003. He is the son of Marvin and Kathleen my father is Orville Huntington. In the Bible wouldn’t have been able to get there anyway. Kokrine. He has received an Associate’s degree in Automotive/Diesel and Industrial it says to honor thy mother and father so I Within two hours of her assistance I was Technology with a Ford Accelerated Credential training. Lowell is currently employed am glad to say that they’re my parents. My finally able to get up and walk around for with Swift Transportation in Phoenix, Arizona. Lowell would like to take this opportunity parents taught me all I could learn about short periods of time. to thank Reva Shircel, TCC Education, for her continued help and support; he appreciates his uncle Billy and grandmother Flora Demoski, along with his mother and sisters, friend God but that still doesn’t mean I was a saint. Also, a big thank you to TCC for having I found out who God and Jesus are when I Jessica, for joining him in celebrating his accomplishment. He also acknowledges his went to jail. I was comforted by the Holy such professional and kindhearted Itinerants loving grandmother, Flora Demoski, for financially helping him for two years. Also on his Spirit because most people need God when who are willing to come out to our villages funding list of people they’re having hard times, but it also helped when they’re needed. It must be hard for are Tozitna, Limited, me realize that I am the son of God and them to leave their families for sometimes Doyon Foundation, how much He loves me. up to two weeks. We really do appreciate all Gana’Yoo, Limited, Anaa Basee, of their assistance in our community. A lot and TCC. Lowell also appreciates his Dennis Huntington of times they are not thanked enough or parents, Marvin and Fairbanks Correctional Center given the credit for leaving their families/ Kathleen, for their homes. continued support Dear Editor, Again, thank you, Ann, for being in and encouragement. The Tesoro Iron Dog Team #4, Pete Ruby when I needed you the most, for your Thank you, Demoski and George “Todd” Malemute, professionalism in assisting my care that Lowell Kokrine would like to give a big thanks to their day. and parents Marvin sponsors: Al and Sam Brice with Brice & Kathleen Kokrine Incorporated, Interior Regional Housing Sincerely, Authority, Mike of Santa’s Motor Sports, Karen Honea Nick of McKinley Polaris, Lawrence and PO Box 68011 Agnes Dayton of Kateel Interprise, Tylor Ruby, Alaska Cook of Aurora Motors, Spenard Builders Supply, Auto Trim Design, Kelly Kamper, Dear Editor, Oscar Dayton, Jason Malemute, Terry and Nancy Pitka, Gilbert Huntington, Kyle The family of Tabessa Gene would like The Council is a monthly report to the member tribes of the Tanana Chiefs Malemute, The Germz team-Jeremy, Wes to thank everyone who helped search, cook, Conference, in accordance with agreements with the Bureau of Indian Affairs and Joe, Gary Kangas, James coordinate, and organize the continuous and the Indian Health Service. Letters to the editor, other written contributions Sweetsir, Shane Derendoff of efforts to find our grandmother, mother, and photo submissions are welcome. However, space is limited and program Koyukon Consulting, Eureka Builders, and special friend. We want to thank the oriented news has priority. TCC reserves the right to edit or reject material. Gordy Clark, Arctic Circle Air, and also our people from Tetlin, Northway, Tanacross, Letters and opinions are not necessarily the opinions of Tanana Chiefs Conference. Material submitted anonymously will not be published. families. Mentasta, Dot Lake, Copper Center, Healy Contributions and questions may be directed to: We would also like to thank our fans Lake, Fairbanks, Allakaket, Tanana, Minto, from way up North, the Interior, the South, Tok, Beaver Creek-Canada, Alaska State The Council and all the way over to the Coast, and to Troopers, TCC, Denakkanaaga, Doyon, Ginger Kennedy Placeres, Editor Tanana Chiefs Conference the following Yukon River villages-Tanana, Great Northwest, and many, many more Galena and Koyukuk, and also the Koyukuk 122 First Avenue, Suite 600 people that contributed their time. We are River villages. Without all your support and Fairbanks, AK 99701 sorry if we missed anyone who volunteered. encouragement we couldn’t have gone this Phone: (907) 452-8251, ext. 3227 far. Thank you from the Toll-free within Alaska: Anaa’ Baasee’, immediate and extended family 1-800-478-6822, ext. 3227 Pete Demoski and George “Todd” members of Toll-free from outside Alaska: Malemute Tabessa Gene 1-800-770-8251, ext. 3227 Fax: (907) 459-3851 In This Issue E-mail: [email protected] IN THIS ISSUE Subregional Offices Yukon-Koyukuk Kuskokwim Yukon-Tanana Tanana Chiefs Conference...... 1,3-5 P. O. Box 92 P. O . B o x 1 6 9 1302 21st Avenue Letters to the Editor...... 2 Galena, AK 99741 McGrath, AK 99627 Fairbanks, AK 99701 (907) 656-1326 (907) 524-3005 (907) 459-3930 Youth Employment & Training...... 6 Health Services...... 7-8 Upper Tanana Lower Yukon Yukon Flats Subregional News...... 9-10 P. O . B o x 1 2 9 P. O . B o x 1 9 0 P. O. Box 304 News for Our People...... 11-12 Tok, AK 99780 Holy Cross, AK 99602 Ft. Yukon, AK 99740 (907) 883-5181 (907) 476-7137 (907) 662-2556 APRIL 2004 •THE COUNCIL • PAGE 3 TANANA CHIEFS CONFERENCE Alaska Native Language Protecting Cultural Places This series of information is provided to help Tribes understand and utilize Center Scholarship basic regulations, terms, and processes for protecting cultural resources. By Beth Leonard, Language Coordinator-Instructor, Interior Athabascan Tribal College

The Alaska Native Language Center, Applications must be faxed or Documenting Traditional Cultural Places (TCPs) University of Alaska Fairbanks (UAF) and the Interior Athabascan Tribal College postmarked by April 30. By Donna Dwiggins, Applied Anthropologist, Natural & Cultural Resources announce four competitive awards of Scholarship recipients will be Traditional Cultural Properties (or places) are places that hold meaning and are $10,000 each for students pursuing either a important to the continuity and history of a culture. Last time we gave some examples Master of Education degree; or a Bachelor’s announced by May 14. of these places: a birch grove that is known as a resource for sled or snowshoe in Linguistics, Alaska Native Studies, making, historical meeting places such as Nuchalowoyya, sacred areas, spiritual Education, Rural Development or a related field. Applicants who are pursuing any of the areas, and others. This article will talk about the process of getting TCPs listed on the degrees listed above must show a major focus on Athabascan language study and teaching National Register of Historic Places. within their programs. In order to facilitate protection of TCPs under existing Historic Preservation Laws, a series of steps are followed to get the property listed on the National Register: Applicants must be in good academic standing and accepted into the Denaqenage’ ♦ Research the property: First, contact the State Historic Preservation Office Career Ladder Program and a relevant UAF degree program at the time the scholarship is (SHPO). In Alaska, that would be the Office of History and Archaeology located awarded. Award recipients must be enrolled full-time while receiving the award. Preference under the Department of Natural Resources in Anchorage. Their website is http:// will be given to qualified candidates studying either Tanacross, Upper Tanana, or Dena’ina. www.dnr.state.ak.us/parks/oha/. Their office has the forms that you need and can Consideration will be given to all applicants studying, or intending to study an Athabascan provide guidance on procedures. They can also tell you if the property has already language. Preference will be given to previous award recipients applying for renewal. been surveyed for historical and cultural places. Although practices are changing, Applications must be faxed or postmarked by April 30. Scholarship recipients will be past trends were to focus on architecture and buildings or artifacts, rather than announced by May 14. intangible areas such as ‘sacred sites.’ For this reason, it is important to gather thorough documentation of a TCP. Application packets are available through the Interior Athabascan Tribal College. If ♦ Determine the type of significance that the property holds according to a you would like an application packet or have any questions, please contact Beth Leonard set of criteria: engineering (like a bridge), cultural, connection to historical events toll-free at 800-478-6822 or locally at 907) 452-8251 ext. 3287 or via e-mail at or an important person, distinctive physical characteristics, or potential to yield [email protected]. important information. A property may hold several or a combination of these connections, but the choice of criteria will be influenced by the type of supporting evidence that you will be able to document best. Get Out the Native Vote ♦ Determine the associations for that property: it must have been a “witness” to events that actually occurred, or an important individual should have lived, worked, or been on the site during the time of his/her important activities that are 2004 Elections considered significant to the property. ♦ Evaluate the integrity of the property: how has it maintained its original By Tanya Beatus, Program Technician, Planning & Development characteristics that relate to its significance? If many of the original characteristics are obliterated, it becomes more difficult to establish its integrity. This year is an extremely important In order to vote in any election, you In the case of TCPs, Native names are important, as are the associations year for all Americans. There will be many surrounding the property. For example, a trail may show greater importance by exciting State and Federal government must be registered to vote 30 days where it leads to and comes from than the actual body of the trail if it were used on election races this year. We will either be prior to election day. a regular basis for trade or meaningful historical events. electing a new U.S. President and Vice- These may seem like complicated procedures, but they are laid out simply in a President, or re-electing President George Bush and Vice-President Dick Cheney. For www.gov.state.ak.us/ltgov/elections/ 17-page step-by-step National Register Bulletin titled “Researching a Historic cand04p.htm. Property.” This free Bulletin is available from the Parks Service, and it is the source for people who have been historically under- most of the information in this brief preview of the National Register process. represented, it is dire that we participate in If you are interested in being an election this year’s elections by voicing our concerns, Several regional communities have worked through this process with minimal worker at any voting poll in a village, and technical assistance. Getting the property listed on the National Register is a good, educating others, and making it to the polls are a registered voter who is 18-years-old, first step toward protection because the listing will pop up any time a project (called on Primary and General Election days, please contact the Division of Elections office ‘undertaking’ by the Historic Preservationists) is preparing an environmental impact which are August 24th and November 2. in Fairbanks at (907) 451-2835, or contact study (EIS). The listing will require consideration of the TCP as a potential historic or Please keep in mind that in order to the person that conducts elections for your cultural site. This does not automatically mean that the property will be protected, vote in these elections, a person has to be community. Three election workers are but it will force the project to take it into consideration and possibly devise a mitigation registered to vote 30 days prior to Election needed for each polling precinct. plan if necessary. Properties may be given a designation by the SHPO of “eligible” for Day for both the Primary and General Finally, if you would like to be a Voter listing on the National Register before the actual listing occurs. This means that there Elections. If you are not sure if you are Registrar, please call the Division of Elections may be some further information necessary, or that the SHPO did not have time or registered to vote in your village or recently in Fairbanks. There are 30-minute trainings evidence for a thorough evaluation, so they have called it “eligible” in the meantime. moved and want to change your address, Mondays at Noon and Wednesdays at 3 Next time we will consider the sources that may provide information for the please go to your village government office pm. Please call ahead to sign-up. Due to documentation process. where voter registration applications are new laws concerning Voter Registration, by- available. If in Fairbanks, go to the Division mail voter registration applications are of Elections office in the State Building. You requiring copies of photo identification. 2004 Honoring Alaska’s may also register to vote if you are within However, if you are registered to vote by a 90 days of your 18th birthday. trained Registrar, copies of identification are Indigenous Literatures Awards On the State level, there are numerous not required. For this reason, it is important significant elections that will be taking place, that we have Registrars in each of our By Beth Leonard, Language Coordinator-Instructor, Interior Athabascan Tribal College such as the race for the U.S. Senate seat, villages. The next time you are in town, currently occupied by Senator Lisa please consider the 30-minute training. The 2004 Honoring Alaska’s Indigenous Literatures Awards (HAIL) awards ceremony Murkowski, and the race for the U.S. House For more information, contact Tanya was held at the Anchorage Sheraton Hotel on February 10. HAIL, established in 2001 by Representative seat, currently occupied by Beatus, Program Technician, toll-free at 800- members of Alaska Native teacher organizations, honors indigenous Elders, authors, Representative Don Young. Also, for Senate 478-6822 or locally at (907) 452-8251 ext. illustrators, and others who make significant contributions to the documentation and District C, our State Senator Georgianna 3276 or email representation of Alaska Native cultural knowledge and traditions. Lincoln will not be seeking re-election. [email protected]. You can Honorees from the Interior this year included Athabascan Elders Dr. Sidney Instead State Representatives Carl Morgan also contact Odin Peter-Raboff at ext. 3197 Huntington of Galena for his autobiography “Shadows of the Koyukuk,” and the late and Albert Kookesh will be vying for the or email [email protected]. Belle Deacon of Grayling for “Engithidong Xigixudhoy: Their Stories of Long Ago.” Dr. Senate District C seat. As a result, House Huntington was on hand to receive his award and gave an informative and inspiring District 6 is open to new candidates. It is acceptance speech. Belle Deacon’s grandson Nelson Deacon, and granddaughter Becky critical that the TCC region is aware of what Presidential Candidate Shelikoff and her children attended to accept Belle Deacon’s award. is happening in their Senate and House Other honorees from across the State included Loretta Outwater Cox for “Winter district. For more information on Websites: candidates for the State’s elections, please Walk,” John Peter Pestrikoff and Julia Pestrikoff for their primary contributions to an www.vote-smart.org go to this website: http:// • unpublished work for children “Red Cedar of Afognak,” Nora Marks Dauenhauer for her • www.opensecrets.org/presidential/ work in Tlingit oral literature, and Mike Andrews, Sr. for his role as a cultural tradition bearer. Important Dates index.asp • politicalweb.info/2004/2004.html Members of the HAIL working committee include: Andy Hope (chairperson), Lolly Last Day to File for Candidacy • www.georgewbush.com/ Carpluk, Virginia Ned, Bernice Tetpon, Esther Ilutsik, Cecilia Martz, Marie Olson (Elder), for any State Seat Frank Hill, Bernadette Yaayuk Alvanna-Stimpfle, Yurrliq Nita Reardon, Dorothy Larson, • www.johnkerry.com/ June 1, 2004 Ray Barnhardt, Martha Stackhouse, Linda Green, Shirly Tuzroyluke, Teri Schneider, Moses • www.ralphnader.com Primary Election Day Dirks, and Olga Pestrikoff. August 24, 2004 • www.sharpton2004.org/ Please visit the website at www.ankn.uaf.edu/HAIL or contact Linda Green at General Election Day • www.kucinich.us/ (907) 474-5814 or Virginia Ned at (907) 474-2477 if you have any questions about the November 2, 2004 • www.cnn.com/ELECTION/2004/ nomination and selection process, or any upcoming events. PAGE 4 • THE COUNCIL • APRIL 2004 TANANA CHIEFS CONFERENCE Grant Source of the Month The grant source of the month is the Administration for Native American (ANA) grants with three different due dates. Remember, applications must be received on or Taking Care of Our Grandparents... before the due date. For social and economic strategies (SEDS) the due date is April 23. This section regarding Elder issues is a continuing effort by several organizations ANA grants are an excellent source of funding to build capacity and funding can be to feature those we cherish most. Caring for our grandparents is reflected on obtained for longer than one year. behalf of TCC, Fairbanks Native Association, and Denakkanaaga. If you need any information regarding your ANA grant, contact Dick Farris, Grant Writer, toll-free at 800-478-6822 or locally at (907) 452-8251 ext. 3246 or email Abuse of Elders and Vulnerable Adults [email protected]. You can also contact Lissa, at ext. 3279. You can also contact the Native American Management Services Center at toll-free at 877-770-6230. By Charlotte M. Davis, Registered/Public Health Nurse, Elder’s Program, Chief Andrew Isaac Health Center Grant Tip of the Month Abuse is a difficult subject to talk about. Because of the ugliness, it is even hard On your ANA proposal your application must have all of the following: to believe that it happens. It does happen: every hour of everyday; to both men and 1. Project Abstract, women; in all cultures; among the poor, middle-class, and rich; in cities, town, and 2. Resolution by your village council, villages; across town, on the next street, and next door. 3. Completed standard forms (SF 424A, SF 424B, SF 424C) with an original signature, If there is an incidence or suspicion of abuse of an Elder or vulnerable adult, a 4. Non-Federal Share Waiver Request, confidential report should be made to Adult Protective Services toll-free at 800- 5. Proof of non-profit status (not required of Federally recognized tribes), 478-9996. You’re not required to have proof or to know for certain that it’s 6. Certificate Regarding Lobbying, Maintenance of Effort Assurance, occurring before calling. Adult Protective Services will investigate before making a 7. Copy of your indirect cost rate agreement in effect for the proposed budget final decision. State law mandates that all health care workers must call in all period, suspected abuse cases. 8. Project Narrative – Criterion 1,2,3,4,5, (and 6 if applicable), and Where there are Elders and vulnerable adults, there can be abuse: in nursing 9. in your Appendices have: statement by nonprofits that 90% of Native home, in group homes, in the community, in their families’ homes, and in their American board maintains organizational authority, resumes and job own homes. Often the Elder of a vulnerable adult is unable to trust others, is descriptions, copy of your last audit, maps, charts and other supporting generally unhappy, many be depressed, may feel unloved, may have low self- documents. esteem, or may feel hopelessness or helplessness about their situation. They may If you need help on any of these items or if you are missing something, give us a call. not even recognize that the behavior is abuse. The abuser may be a son, daughter, grandchild, brother or sister, health care provider, an acquaintance, or even another Elder or vulnerable adult. Frequently, the abuser may not recognize their behavior as abuse. Living with Alcohol & Substance Abuse There are many different types of abuse: physical neglect, physical abuse, Specific excerpts are taken from the book titled “Drugs & Drinks: Painful Questions, emotional neglect, emotional abuse, abandonment, self-neglect, secular abuse, How Substance Abusers and Their Loved Ones Ask for Help” by Frank N. Shiromoto and financial exploitation. These types may occur by themselves, but frequently and Edgar Soren. Mr. Soren is an Intake Counselor for the Old Minto Family Recovery there is overlapping of two or more types. The following is brief description of Camp. each category. Physical abuse happens when physical injuries are deliberately inflicted on “I don’t like to admit it but I don’t like my dad when he drinks. Sometimes I another person. This is the easiest type to identify because the injuries are often hate him. I can’t count on him when he promises to do something with me. Will visible. I always feel this way?” Physical neglect happens when the person’s health and safety are endangered because of lack of adequate food, clothing, shelter, or supervision. This includes It sounds like your dad is an alcoholic. You must understand that alcoholism is a abandonment by family or caregivers. disease and that your dad is sick. He does not break promises because he is a bad father, Sexual abuse is any act of sexual nature without that person’s consent. There but because he is addicted. Alcohol is the most important thing in his life right now and he may be physical evidence. will not let any promise interfere with his use of it. Once you understand that your dad has a disease, you will begin to see him in a Emotional abuse is injury to one’s psychological welfare. Examples include different light. Maybe this will help change the way you feel about him. If not, perhaps verbal criticism, harassment, hostility, rejection, and other demeaning acts. attending Alateen meetings would help, go online to www.al-anon-alateen.org/alateen.html. Emotional neglect is the deprivation or lack of emotional involvement by the It is always good to be among people who share our problems and understand what we family and or the community. This is often the result of ignorance or indifference are going though. from others. It can lead to social isolation and depression. Remember, you cannot make your dad stop drinking, but you can help yourself. Talk Self-neglect is when the vulnerable adult or Elder fails to provide themselves to your mom or another family member. Very often they are waiting for someone to start with adequate, food, shelter, and clothing. This often leads to serious health talking about it. problems and is frequently the result of substance abuse. If you have a specific question and would like to ask Mr. Soren, call toll-free 800-478- 6822 or locally at (907) 452-8251 ext. 3160. You can email [email protected]. Financial exploitation is when a person’s resources (money, home, and belongings are used unjustly or improperly to benefit the abuser). This includes expecting the vulnerable adult or Elder to do another person’s work. A common Interior Athabascan Tribal example is expecting the Elder to watch the grandchildren at any time without respecting their right to refuse. College upcoming events For more information, contact Charlotte Davis, Elder’s Program toll-free at 800-478-6822 or locally at (907) 451-6682 ext. or email By David Monroe, Director, Interior Athabascan Tribal College [email protected]. Like the spring weather in Fairbanks, things at the Interior Athabascan Tribal College (IATC) are warming up quickly. IATC is always busy, but recently with the hiring of a new Director, several new programs are under development that will present exciting educational opportunities for the people of the Interior area. Child Protection Program’s The Forest Technology and Wood Products Training programs are part of a larger New Administrative Assistant effort by IATC to establish several Associate Degree Programs as well as career pathways which will lead to employment for rural and urban clients. This program is funded for My name is Denise (Paul) Callahan and three years starting in 2003 as part of a larger National Science Foundation grant. IATC I was recently hired as a administrative staff are presently working with Tanana Valley Campus and the UAF School of Agriculture assistant for the Child Protection Program. and Land Resource Management to organize a curriculum for the degree program. If all I worked for TCC as a receptionist for over goes well, classes will be offered in the fall of 2004. six years before taking time to stay home In early April, IATC will participate in the Gila Academy, which is sponsored by the with my kids, Michael John, 8, and Kyonia Athabascan Self-Sufficiency Assistance Partnership and will take place at Chena River Rose, 4. My job duties include filing, taking Convention Center. The events will include training on how to choose, find a job, and keep messages, answering phones, checking a job and will feature dynamic speakers with many years experience in the field of career request, and helping clients as much as I development. The event will feature entertainment, prizes and will wrap up with the state’s can. biggest Job Fair, sponsored by TCC and The Alaska Department of Labor. The Job Fair I am originally from Galena and my will take place at the Chena River Convention Center and David Salmon Tribal Hall on parents are Ron Dees and the late Doris Paul, April 8th and will feature many employers from the Fairbanks area. and Roberta Demoski and the late John IATC is also working with Family Services to rework the Family Centered Service Demoski. I have six sisters, Jennifer Training Program for delivery this fall. This is a training program that will focus on Hildebrand, Angela, Jessica, Amelia Paul, training for Tribal Family Youth Services employees working in the regional areas. Claudia & Mary Demoski, and two IATC will continue to work on programs in partnership with other departments to nephews, Gavin and Brandon. develop or realign training programs. Those efforts will include work on Tribal Denise can be reached toll-free at 800- Administration and Tribal Courts programs. IATC will continue to provide excellent 478-6822 or locally at (907) 452-8251 ext. language programs as well. For information, call David Monroe, Director, toll-free at 3495 or via email at 800-478-6822 or locally at (907) 452-8251 ext. 3285 or email [email protected]. [email protected]. THE COUNCIL • PAGE 5 TANANA CHIEFS CONFERENCE Building Native Communities: Vanessa Horace: 5th Financial Skills For Families Floor Receptionist Everyone is welcome to our workshops (and raffle) to learn to: Vanessa Horace became the Receptionist in October 2003. Her job duties include $ Take control of your financial future answering and transferring phone calls, $ Manage Checking and Savings Accounts assisting clients and staff, and various other $ Understand credit and credit reports duties. $ Achieve your financial goals $ Develop a spending plan She is the daughter of Donna Horace of $ Learn how to develop a business plan Fort Yukon and George Rice of Fairbanks. She $ Learn how to market your business is also the proud mother of Isaiah Horace. $ Learn what’s needed to start a business and more Previously Vanessa worked as the receptionist for Doyon, Limited. In her free time, she enjoys Venetie reading, and spending time at home or with April 26 – 28, 2004 friends. Shitsuu Sarah Frank Tribal Hall Holy Cross nd May 3 – 5, 2004 2 Traditional Chief continued from front page Holy Cross Youth Center where he was a truck driver, to the making of our softball field along with Austin Esmailka Sr. These two men bladed the top of the hill behind Kaltag to accomplish this. They were If you will be attending one of these workshops, and would like to access your left without choice since Uncle James Solomon built his house right on top of 2nd Base at free credit report, please contact Tanya Beatus, Program Technician, toll-free at 800- the former ballpark downtown. I don’t know if these men had a vision but most of our 478-6822 or locally at (907) 452-8251ext. 3276 or email current softball team consists of descendents of these two great men. [email protected]. My father became chief in the early 60’s, a position he held somewhere in the neighborhood of 25 years. He was instrumental in acquiring the ASHA homes in the early 70’s, along with the homes came our running water and sewer system, a first in our region. Special thanks to our sponsors: The American Express Foundation, Key Bank My father is very proud of the fact that he was in the ballroom of the Anchorage of Alaska and First National Bank of Alaska. Hilton on December 18, 1971 when President Nixon signed the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act via teleconference. Since that time he has served on various boards including Rural Cap, Interior Regional Housing Authority, TCC Executive Board, and our regional Village Public Safety School Board. He currently serves as our Community Schools Committee president in Kaltag, is on our village corporation, Ganaa’ Yoo, and the list goes on. He was also a crew boss of our fire-fighting crew for Officers in the News many years. By Jim Knopke, Director, Village Public Safety Officers Program In Kaltag and Nulato we have a week-long memorial honoring Village Public Safety Officer (VPSO) Charles Ward Graduated from VPSO Basic our loved ones that have gone Academy held in Sitka Alaska, on March 17. This ten-week intensive training gets the new before us. This includes potlatches, recruits in shape and in the proper frame of mind. To complete their jobs, they will deal Native singing and gift-giving. My with the ever present phone calls for help and assistance though out their careers. They are father has been the primary singer trained in Fire Protection, Water Safety, Search and Rescue, Basic Emergency First Aide, for these gatherings for well over and of course Law Enforcement Procedures. They also monitor probation and parole 25 years. For some of our younger within their respective villages. VPSO’s are also involved with suicide prevention and people, he is the only Native singer DARE classes for children in school. Some VPSO’s are also certified as lay vaccinators for they have witnessed at our Stickdances. Dad mentioned that rabies in their communities. VPSO Ward is currently stationed at Anvik and has been the all the other singers were women. acting VPSO for Anvik since August 2003. Through efforts by Nulato and If you would like a challenging career in your home village, and feel you can make a Kaltag, the youth can sing most of difference, apply with TCC to become a VPSO in your community. VPSO’s can earn up to our songs now, or at least part of $70,000 a year in wages and benefits. Call the Human Resources Department toll-free at them. 800-478-6822 or locally at (907) 452-8251 ext. 3259. For more information, contact Jim My father is a strong advocate Knopke, Director, at ext. 3236 or email [email protected]. for the preservation of our land and traditional hunting grounds.

2004 Convention continued from front page Tables of crafts outlined the Chena River Convention President and CEO of First Alaskans a comparison, without the program, Center for three days as Institute. Koyukuk would actually pay 45 cents per many artists displayed and The Alaska Native Policy Center “works kilowatt. Without the program, Manley Hot sold their work. with Native and non-Native organizations Springs would supercede all villages and pay to conduct research and to provide a whopping 60 cents per kilowatt, versus information to Alaska Natives and their the 25 cents they currently pay. For many, communities” (First Alaskans Institute this was the first time such information was Status Report 2003). ever presented, much less compared. The presentation was remarkable and The amount of information provided analyzed the Alaska Native population by by the Alaska Policy Center’s project was size, health, economy, and education. incredible and ought to be viewed by all Specific data was presented in a slide show, Alaska residents. Everyone gains to learn with Greta Goto explaining Census 2000 more, especially when so many rural and data that was region-specific. For example, urban matters are in opposition. To learn a community listing o f electricity costs was more about their efforts, please go online graphed, showing Koyukuk as having the to www.firstalaskans.org or call most expensive “per kilowatt” charges at 32 (907) 677-1700. The First Alaskans cents. The graph displayed the benefit of Instititute is located in Anchorage and they having the Power Cost Equalization have several summits and various types of program in place, showing electricity costs ongoing research and publications. with and without the program in place. As The Fort Yukon Traditional Dancers is a group of 25 youth who perform year-round, especially during the summer months. They danced to The Nenana Inter-Tribal Dance Group is comprised of dancers who come from traditional Gwich’in various backgrounds as some are students at the Nenana Student Living Center. songs as well jigging Back row: Roberta “Bird” Solari (Beaver), Teresa Lord (Nenana), Tina Thomas and the Duck (Nenana), and Lucy David (Kongiganak). Dance. Thanks to Middle row: Caroline Ketzler (Nenana), Kimberly Greenway (Nenana), and Hayley Gordon Druck and Tayler (Nenana). Willie Fields for Front row: Kiana Peter (Nenana), Angel Mayo (Tanana), and Brooke Edwin playing the music. (Nenana). PAGE 6 • THE COUNCIL • APRIL 2004 YOUTH EMPLOYMENT & TRAINING Village AmeriCorps Training Career Corner: Geology By Chantelle Schofield, AmeriCorps VISTA Leader By Leah Glass, Geology student at Imperial College of London, England The March 2-4 Village AmeriCorps Department. Everyone enjoyed the and the University of Alaska Fairbanks (VAC) Training was helpful in bringing the beadwork collection. Jessica Boyle said “this AmeriCorps members together to discuss gives me great ideas to work on.” Members My name is Leah and I am currently studying geology at university. Have you specific aspects of serving youth and toured the Art Department and the Native ever wondered why Denali is so huge, how old the Earth is, or why the Aleutians have communities, as well as sharing stories of Arts Studio. They met with several art their distinctive pattern? Maybe you’ve seen Redoubt smoking or felt the Earth shake success. students, and ask them questions about during an earthquake. There is no getting away from it, geology is everywhere! I love Jessica Boyle (Circle), Angela Sam their projects. The day ended with some geology because you can see it and feel it. Studying geology is brilliant because you get healthy competition as participants to learn about all the scientific disciplines, from biology in paleontology (fossils), to (Tetlin), Cesa Sam (Huslia), and Patricia Young (Tetlin) attended the training. challenged each other to pool and bowling the chemistry of lava, to the physics of how the planets evolved. It also gives you a at the UAF Wood Center. completely different perspective on time. Next time you skim a pebble across a lake, Activities were led by Stephenie Bennett, just think-that rock is anywhere from 10,000 to 3 billion years old! AmeriCorps Program Director, with the Thursday included a tour of the UAF assistance of Chantelle Schofield, Rasmuson Library, followed by research If you wanted to get a job as a geologist you have so many options, from AmeriCorps VISTA Leader. It started with methods of the Alaska and Polar Regions measuring earthquakes to trying to predict when volcanoes are going to erupt. It’s a review of paperwork, procedures, and a Collection. Members learned how to look brilliant if you like the outdoors, because unlike many sciences, to get information discussion on how to work with youth up archived photographs, as well as how to you generally have to go out and measure it on the ground! We are all so lucky disciplinary problems and non- locate interviews online through the Oral because Alaska is often called the ‘geologist’s playground’ since we have virtually every participation. Members had useful History collection. The group visited the aspect of geology here. suggestions on how to engage the Noel Wien Library and learned about the So why not make the most of it and become a geologist. Contact Youth community, and encourage volunteerism Regional Services available to rural Employment Programs for more information. from all ages. Members met with the communities. All three communities with Employment and Training Department. Members are eligible for Regional Services Members also participated in a crafts through the State Library system, and may Minto Dance Group Performs workshop, making various items. request books and other items. at Festival of Native Arts Wednesday’s training was held at the For more information, please contact University of Alaska, Fairbanks (UAF). Stephenie Bennett, AmeriCorps Program By Robin Frank, Youth Development Specialist, and Neil Gahn, Fund Development Members continued their crafts work in Director, toll-free at 800-478-6822 or locally Coordinator/AmeriCorps*VISTA between other activities, learning how to at (907) 452-8251 ext. 3416 or via email at make slippers and a variety of yarn animals, [email protected]. On February 27th and 28th, the Youth Minto Dance Group put on an outstanding which should be a fun performance at the Festival of Native Arts held at the UAF Great Hall and Wood Center. project with youth. fifteen youth from Minto performed before an audience of hundreds. The high energy Several different level the dancers exuded in the performance was contagious enough to visibly raise the games were taught spirits of the crowd. Several members of the crowd participated on-stage along with the and Members received a tour of the youth during three invitational songs extended to the audience. UAF Museum, The Youth Minto Dance Group consists of children, teenagers, and young adults, followed by an ranging from ages 4 to 25. Elders Geraldine Charlie, Ruth Grant, and numerous family insiders’ look at the members from both Minto and Fairbanks. The dance group is indebted to Luke Titus and collection of the Vernell Titus who spent many hours providing instruction and history for each of the Ethnology songs in the performance. The group wishes to say Ana’ Basee to not only to Luke and Vernell, but also, to Dance Coordinator JR Titus, and Chaperones: Charla Alexander, 2004 Annual Youth Convention Twana Alexander and Stewart Charlie. By Rachel Graybeal, Youth Employment Services Coodinator Each song and dance was expertly performed and a testament to the steady learning- On the surface, the TCC 2004 Annual Youth Convention looked like it has in years process the youth and young adults had undergone. The youth and crowd alike appreciated past. The youth arrived, got settled into their hotel rooms, and they attended orientation the Festival of Native Arts forum as a wonderful platform to display their knowledge of to prepare for the week. However, this year, in order to be invited, Youth Delegates were the Minto and Nenana Athabascan songs and dances. required to answer a page of essay questions and submit two letters of recommendation. First, staff went through the difficult process of selecting potential delegates. Selected Final thanks go to Avis Rent-A-Car for its generous donation of a rental van to youth were interviewed and invitations were formalized. Two youth from each subregion transport the youth to and from Minto. Thank you, Avis Rent-A-Car, for assisting us in were represented. This new process allowed staff to get to know the youth and helped the this wonderful event! youth understand the role they were accepting, while providing youth with valuable job readiness skills as they completed the interview process. The 2004 Youth Convention members created the first Youth Council, which was Roselyn Darby: Youth another change to the Youth Convention. For a long time, there has been a need to create a forum through which youth could be heard. Because this is the pilot year, the Youth Employment Success Story Council is likely to undergo some evolving before its perfected. For now, Youth Council My name is Roselyn Darby and I’m 18- members serve a one-year term. New council members will be assigned at next years’ years-old. I am a single, teenage parent and Annual Convention. The Youth Council was given tasks and will meet via teleconference have worked various jobs around Fairbanks. twice a month. A couple months ago I was working minimum Another change was an award ceremony to honor two Youth Delegates. Jamie wage and didn’t have my GED. Marunde received the Outstanding Academic Achievement Award and Aaron Solomon received the Outstanding Young Leader Award. Both received beaded moose-skin gloves I entered the TCC Youth Employment and the awards were presented in front of the convention attendees. Staff hope to create a Services program two months ago. Since I formal selection process involving the villages for next years’ outstanding youth,. entered the program they have taught me The purpose of interviewing skills and how to write a resume. the Youth They helped me stay motivated and Convention is to help youth learn about the accomplish my first goal. I completed my GED decision making on December 15, a month after I joined the process and to program. Soon I’ll be starting two part-time develop leadership jobs, both pay at $10.50 an hour. skills. The formation This summer I will begin college and of the Youth Council will help to further major in accounting. I’m doing this to make a their leadership better future for my daughter and myself. For development. It is anyone looking for a job or more opportunities our mission to and need assistance, TCC will have no problem helping you find and get the tools you empower and need to succeed. All you have to do is apply to Youth Employment Services and see if you prepare our next are eligible. Thanks to Youth Employment Services, I’m building a better future. generation of leaders. Call us toll-free at 800-478-6822 or locally at (907) 452-8251. Go to www.tananachiefs.org AmeriCorps/VISTA Youth Employment Tribal Civilian Community Youth Opportunity Grant Services Corps Through VISTA and Village Empowers Native youth facing barriers to Based in Nenana, we provide Promotes self-esteem and self AmeriCorp, TCC offers a variety of employment by providing work opportunities for members to travel to determination through a culturally opportunities for participants to serve experience, training and educational perform service projects, gain work appropriate program of education, and strengthen Alaska Native opportunities designed to foster world- experience, increase cultural awareness training, occupational experiences and communities. of-work skills. and enhance educational skills. related services for rural youth. Contact: Stephenie Bennett Contact: Rachel Graybeal Contact: Daylinda Griffith Contact: Adam Demientieff [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] Extension 3416 Extension 3193 Extension 3738 Extension 3410 APRIL 2004 •THE COUNCIL • PAGE 7 HEALTH Say yes to green tea Do you have gum disease? By Madeline Paterson-ODell, Registered Dietician, Women, Infants, Children’s Program By Barbara O’Donnell, Hygienist, TCC Dental Do you drink caffeine? Is caffeine The anti-oxidant in green tea is a If your dental professional says “You Gingivitis (infection of the gums) can okay for blood sugar? The best answer for polyphenol called epigallocatechin gallate have gum disease” what does that mean to be cured within one month by using dental both questions is no. Caffeine lowers the (EGCg), which prevented the formation of you? Some might brush it off (no pun floss daily. Floss sweeps out germs between body’s response to insulin, and studies this tumors in animals. Researchers at Purdue intended), without worry and may go on teeth that cause gingivitis. Just touching year confirm consuming caffeine or caffeine University found in laboratory tests that with life as usual. Some will respond by gums with floss helps tone them. Be beverages even without sugar increases EGCg killed human breast cancer cells but trying to do everything they can to stop it. thorough and consistent. Listerine may also blood glucose and insulin levels. did not kill non-cancer cells. EGCg is found Most of us may fall in the middle and help, but it’s not a substitute for floss. Green tea for less body fat? Studies in small amounts in black tea. perhaps get our teeth cleaned but do Remember, floss for 30 days to cure it, but confirm that green tea (independent of Green tea to improve cholesterol? nothing different to improve our daily home keep flossing every day to prevent it from caffeine) increases the amount of energy the HDL-cholesterol levels (the good care routine, so it will slowly progress until coming back body uses, and therefore can help improve cholesterol) increased in studies done by it may end in tooth loss. Periodontitis (infection of the bone body composition by increasing our body researchers at the Saitama Cancer Research There are many causes of gum disease. and supporting ligaments around teeth) heat production and breakdown of body Center in Komuro, Japan. Some people inherit it from their parents; involves getting a thorough professional fat. What is green tea? Black, green, or their immune systems are not able to fight cleaning by a dental hygienist, including Green tea for stronger bones? People oolong come for the same plant but how it off the germs in their mouths that cause it, investigation into the cause, so that changes and their gums are chronically infected. can be made to save your teeth. Quitting who drank two cups of green tea over 10 is prepared for market determines if it is Some people do not brush and floss smoking, immune system support, better years had greater bone density – the amount black, green, or oolong. Black tea is fully thoroughly. Leaving too many germs in the daily home care, frequent cleanings, and less of density increasing with the number of dried and chemically fermented, green tea mouth infects gums and causes gum stress are all possible solutions. years of green tea drinking. (Archives of is only dried, and oolong is dried and disease. Smoking contributes to gum Sadly, if bone around teeth is lost due Internal Medicine, May 13 2003) Green tea partially fermented. disease; hot dry cigarette smoke dries more is a natural source of vitamin K, fluoride, to gum disease, it will not grow back. At For more information, contact tartar out around and under gums which that point it becomes a management or and phyto estrogens, all of which increase Madeline Patterson-O’Dell, Registered is irritating. Diabetics can have more gum maintenance issue to prevent further bone bone density. Dietician, toll-free at 800-478-6822 or locally problems due to lack of circulation in the and tooth loss. Green Tea for reduced cancer and at (907) 451-6682 ext. 3777 or email gums. Females may lose more bone around teeth because of osteoporosis. If you Make an appointment today to find heart disease? “Yes!” says Dean Ornish on [email protected]. out if your gums are health, then go along a Web MD interview. People who “drank combine any two of these risk factors, your gum disease may be worse. with the recommendations to keep it up. more than two cups a day were 32% less For an appointment, call the Dental Clinic likely to have cancers of the mouth, How much caffeine is in a serving? Adults can lose perfectly good teeth toll-free at 800-478-6822 or locally at (907) esophagus, stomach, colon, and rectum. because of gum disease. It is a “silent disease” 452-8251 ext. 3200. They were also 60% less likely to have Coke: 35 mg and may not have pain associated with it to cancers of the urinary tract than those who Diet Coke: 46 mg get your attention. never or seldom drank tea . . . Four or more Water: 0 mg cups of tea per day lowered the risk of such Coffee: 135 mg cancers by 63%. In contrast, coffee drinking Black Tea: 50 mg was not found to be related to the risk of Utility Manager of the Year these cancers.” Green Tea: 10 mg Award Operator of the Year Award By Molly Patton and Melva Traverso, Office of Environmental Health Tanana Chiefs Conference’s Office of contacting the appropriate people to fix a Environmental Health (OEH) recognizes leak at the school. The leak came from one By Andy Durny, Local Government Specialist, Elsie Vent of Huslia as the Utility Manager of the pipes under the school building, and State of Alaska Department of Community and Economic Development of the Year. The job of the utility manager is resulted in 48,000 gallons of lost water. At to facilitate the provision of safe water to that time the water plant’s entire system was Water treatment plant operators are buildings, including the clinic. He has worked the community in the most cost-effective potentially at risk. Acting swiftly, Elsie was often one of the most under-recognized consistently to keep the washeteria and water manner. The utility manager position must able to let the right people know about the public servants in a community. Their job plant in compliance with all Federal and be able to communicate effectively to the potential hazard. Her quick response is incredibly important. They are State regulations to provide safe water to community, the governing body, the staff, allowed the school district enough time to responsible for one aspect of the health of the community. Mr. Patsey maintains his and the agencies involved in this process. repair the leak and ensure the system’s safety. every person in the community by ensuring facilities in excellent condition, keeps Elsie has accomplished the tasks of utility Elsie was the Huslia City coordinator that there is safe drinking water available. thorough records, and conscientiously manger while working as the City in April 2003 for the joint military exercise Administrator in Huslia. TCC recognizes the contributions that performs routine maintenance and “Arctic Care 2003.” As coordinator, she water treatment plant operators make to preventive maintenance. He takes personal Elsie works with the State of Alaska, ensured accommodations and contacts for Department of Community and Economic the services of a multidisciplinary military their community by selecting a Water pride in assuring that water/sewer services Development (DCED) to provide utility team of reservists doing their yearly service. Treatment Plant Operator of the Year from are provided at the highest level, and he regulations that the village can comply with. Throughout the years Elsie is the one of the TCC villages. The purpose of responds quickly and effectively to any Her contributions were invaluable in their person almost everyone in Huslia goes to this annual award is to recognize and reward unexpected problems or emergencies. For development of the “Sanitation Planning for help and questions. Elsie continuously operators who have done an excellent job example, in March 2003, he responded Guide for Small Communities.” Elsie has checks on mishaps throughout Huslia. She of improving their water utility throughout immediately to restore safe water services taken care of the books in Huslia since 1981, does paperwork for the Elders, and every the year. as quickly and thoroughly as possible and shared the OEH utility manager of the year assists numerous people with tax year award in 2000. Elsie continually preparation. To be eligible for this award, operators following a “boil water” notice in Nulato. participates in training classes to improve must be state-certified, have worked a In 2002 and 2003, he effectively responded her management skills and help the For more information, contact Melva Traverso, Office of Environmental Health, minimum of one year, provided consistent to frequent problems with the old sewage community stay informed of new lift station at the teacher housing units, until regulations. toll-free at 800-478-6822 or locally at (907) reporting to Department of Environmental 452-8251 ext. or email Conservation and their village Council, a new lift station was constructed in August In January, Elsie was instrumental in [email protected]. responded in a timely manner to water plant 2003. problems, and be self-motivated to Mr. Patsey actively participates in Julie Klaker: Viral Hepatitus maintain and improve their water and training programs to improve his skills as sewer facilities. This year’s water plant an operator, and to maintain and increase Integration Program operator of the year is Mr. Greg Patsey, of his levels of certification. He has successfully My name is Julie Klaker and I am a registered nurse Nulato. completed every operator training session, working on developing a new program for Community Mr. Patsey has been the water operator class, and exam he has ever taken. Remote Health Nursing called the Viral Hepatitis Integration Program. The goal of the program is to provide in Nulato since January 2001. He was also maintenance workers appreciate his confidential testing, and risk reduction counseling for the water plant operator in Nulato from availability and cooperation during on-site visits, and his overall commitment to Hepatitis A, B, C and HIV throughout our region. I 1977 to 1985 (between 1985 and 2000, Mr. will be traveling to villages on a regular basis to provide performing the duties of operator in an Patsey was on full-time active duty with the this service; travel is done at the request of a village and Alaska National Guard). Mr. Patsey holds effective, dependable and professional scheduling is in the process of completion at this time. state certifications in water treatment and manner. Mr. Patsey also helps to keep I moved to Alaska in 1987 from Michigan and have wastewater collection and a Level 1 Nulato residents informed about the water/ been lucky enough to have done many things here like certification in water distribution. sewer utility by providing written articles handling dogs for Jeff King, canoeing the Noatak River, for the Nulato newsletter. For these reasons firefighting for the University Fire Department and Mr. Patsey operates a system that Mr. Patsey is awarded the TCC Water Plant others. In 1994, I graduated from University of Alaska, includes: separate washeterias and lagoons Operator of the Year for 2003. Anchorage, with a nursing degree and have worked for the Nulato old town site and the new Intensive Care Unit, Emergency Room, and Flight Nursing in Alaska, Arizona, and Hawaii. town site subdivision; and piped water and For more information, contact Andy Most recently I lived on the Big Island of Hawaii, but after two years, became homesick for sewer service to approximately 70 homes, Durny, Department of Environmental Alaska and snow! Feel free to call me with questions or concerns anytime toll-free at 800- the Nulato school, and nine public Conservation, at (907) 451-2753. 478-6822 or locally at (907) 452-8251 ext. 3768 or email [email protected]. PAGE 8 • THE COUNCIL • APRIL 2004 HEALTH 10 tips to inspire you to get fit Chief Andrew By John Martin, Physical Activities Coordinator, Diabetes Program Are you struggling to come up with new ways to inspire yourself to stay Isaac Health Center and active? The fact is most people know they should but they just need a little extra motivation to get started. Here are the Pharmacy Hours top 10 tips to inspire you to get fit. Effective March 1, 2003 the Weekend and Holiday Clinic at 1. Be a role model. Do others see Chief Andrew Isaac Health Center are as follows: you enjoying the benefits of being active? Set an example by inviting friends to walk with you or take an exercise class after Clinic Hours: work. 2. Make fitness fun. Some people Monday-Thursday 8:00 am-7:30 pm Walk- prefer to play games rather than exercise. 7. Set short-term goals. Reward Friday 8:00 am-4:30 pm Ins need Make exercising a game in itself. yourself by setting and achieving short-term to check 3. Be both active and productive. It’s fitness goals. Weekend Clinic: in 45 possible to be active and productive by 8. Find a workout partner. If you know minutes doing activities that accomplish a task while someone is counting on you, you will be Friday 5:00 pm-8:00 pm prior to also using some energy, such as walking the more likely to show up for workouts. dog to the store to buy a newspaper, Saturday & Sunday 10:00 am-5:30 pm closing. 9. Use inspirational music. Nothing mowing the lawn, biking to work or walking Holidays 10:00 am-5:30 pm perks up a workout faster than upbeat to school. music. Research shows that listening to your The clinic is closed the last Friday of each month from 8:00 4. Make workouts short and sweet. favorite music while exercising makes it am-9:00 am. Who says exercise has to take up a lot of easier to exercise longer and more intensely time? Knock out this excuse by exercising in while making workouts more enjoyable. short blocks of time spread throughout the 10. Don’t get discouraged. The worst Pharmacy Hours: day. thing you can do is get down on yourself 5. Praise the benefits. Research shows for missing a workout. Instead, create more Monday – Thursday 8:00 am 7:30 pm that people who exercise live longer, healthier opportunities to exercise and make it as fun Wednesday 9:00 am 7:30 pm lives than those who don’t. In fact, exercise and enjoyable as possible. is the closest thing you’ll find to the fountain Friday 8:00 am 4:30 pm For more information, contact John of youth. Martin, Physical Activities Coordinator, The pharmacy is closed weekends/holidays, prescriptions can be 6. Train for a charity event. Get fit toll-free at 800-478-6822 or locally at filled after hours at Fairbanks Memorial Hospital. and raise money for a good cause. For (907) 451-6682 ext. 3773. some, it’s easier to be motivated to exercise if it’s done for a larger cause. Meeting the challenge New contract for food program TCC/National Indian Health Board By Chris Kelly, WIC Vendor Coordinator Fitness Initiative 2004 The Women, Infant’s, Children (WIC) Program in Alaska differs from most other states in that many WIC participants have the opportunity to receive WIC food boxes TCC has ‘Met the Challenge’ 16-week fitness initiative! Yes that is through our mail-order program instead of shopping with warrants. The WIC office has right, many employees and beneficiaries have met the challenge with recently awarded a new contract for mail-order services so food boxes will soon be 100% participation. At this time the TCC Fitness Initiative Bus has grown to a train of shipped from Anchorage instead of Juneau. WIC participants who do not want to shop at over 300. While biggest benefit is to all on board enjoying more energy to have longer local stores due to dissatisfaction with the selection or quality of WIC foods, or treatment happier life. they receive, may ask to get their food boxes by mail. WIC anticipates this will reduce Remember that you are not paddling alone, one day at a time we will follow our problems with delayed, missing or damaged food boxes. The WIC program prefers to hearts and use our feet to get us there! Readjust or reaffirm your to-do list to match the have participants shop at local stores as it gives them more choices, better access to WIC following creed, “I owe it to my family, my coworkers, I owe it to myself!” foods when they need them, and supports the local economy. The WIC vendor agreement My To Do List: requires all authorized WIC vendors to maintain inventory of WIC foods at all times. * Meet the Commitment - some how, some way, everyday - I will meet my WIC vendors that don’t stock enough of the WIC foods their customers need to buy may commitment to participate in at least 30 minutes of moderate physical activity today. end up losing their WIC business, and that can have a significant impact on revenue. * The rest of the day easily falls into place! For more information please contact Renee Legan, Registered Dietician, WIC, Chief Andrew Isaac Health Center toll-free at 800-478-6882 or locally at (907) 451-6682 ext. * End your day by asking your self “Did I walk the talk?” 3678 or via email [email protected]. Make a plan the first thing everyday to care for yourself and you are on your way - you’ll easily handle all the rest that comes your way because you know that before the day’s end you will be taking care of the one that can really take care of you. Manganese Greensand Filtration Keep up the great work and just remember there are more than 300 other supporters with you. Systems class in Fairbanks New Service Coordinator at Contract Health Patricia “Trish” Taylor has recently joined the Contract Health Department as the Service Coordinator. Patricia Taylor is the point of entry for contracted care or services that are not performed within Chief Andrew Isacc Health Center. Patricia instructs patients, providers and staff regarding the use of Contract Health, verifies IHS eligibility for contracted care, establishes and maintains positive public relations with health care providers and clients and prepares and issues purchase Back row (left to right): Johnny Peter, TCC-RMW; Howard Beasley, Galena; Gene orders for outside care. Patricia Taylor was Jensen, Nenana; Thomas Wiehl, Rampart; Aaron Petruska, Beaver; Chris Woosley, born and raised with her five sisters in Takotna. Middle Row: Everette Herbert, Chalkyitsik; Zebedee Cadzow, Fort Yukon; Fairbanks Alaska by Phyllis A. Taylor of Ft. Edward Paul, Chalkyitsik; George Yatlin, Beaver; Randy Mckeown, Beaver. First Yukon and John S. Taylor of Pennsylvania. Row: Michael Pollen, Instructor-NTL Alaska; Emil Sam, Huslia; Glenn Honea, Ruby; Before working in the Contract Health Franklin Silas, Minto; and David Terhune, Takotna. Department Patricia worked as an emergency hire in the Pharmacy for 6 months. She is currently a junior at the University of Fairbanks Alaska obtaining her Bachelors of Science in Sports Medicine. She plans to stay in Fairbanks and utilize her studies within Chief Andrew Isacc Health Center. Patricia will also be getting married this summer and taking her honeymoon in Puerto Rico which is the hometown of her fiancé. Left to right: Franklin Silas Patricia enjoys outdoor activities and spends much of her spare time playing sports such (Minto), Zebedee Cadzow (Fort as Volleyball, Softball and Basketball. If you need any help with any Contract Heath Yukon), Paul Trissel (North Pole Services you can reach Patricia “Trish” at (907) 451-6682 ext. 3613 or by email at [email protected]. Operator), Howard Beasley (Galena), and Emil Sam (Huslia). APRIL 2004 •THE COUNCIL • PAGE 9 SUBREGIONAL NEWS Clarence Alexander Sexual abuse and assault speaks at summit training in Huslia By Maudy L. Sam, Yukon Koyukuk Mental Health Huslia Community Counselor By Clarence Alexander,Yukon River Inter- Tribal Watershed Council (YRITWC) On Feb 25 Dan Weber, TCC Safety Educator, Alaska State Troopers Jeannine Santora, Executive Committee Member, 2004 Ann Sears, and I gave a presentation on sexual abuse/assault for the junior high and high YRITWC 4th Bi-Annual Summit in Fort school students. We taught the true meaning of assault, the law and consequences regarding Yukon, Alaska sexual assault and how to protect themselves. I will tell you what I think in Gwich’in. I gave a presentation on my history as a sexual abuse victim and how it affected my My relations, may the Great Spirit be with life, which included low self-esteem, alcohol and drug abuse, wanting to be in control and you. We have the utmost respect for water. all the negative effects relating to abuse. I explained there is help available and that I Our ancient ancestors tell us water is life in received intense therapy for years to understand my behaviors and to build my self- itself. Treat water with respect. We are alive esteem. The reason I wanted to tell my story is to educate the students so they will be better because of water. Even life, it takes back as prepared for their personal safety. quick as it maintains life; striving for life on our land. Ann Sears gave an excellent presentation talking about sex with the students. She was comfortable and relaxed which made it possible for the students to relax and speak openly Whenever on our land fish, animals, on the topic. birds are sick, we are the same; we feel the Jeannine Santora gave a good presentation on how to say no and self-defense tips on same. Work for water will be the focus of the discussion. Local communities will clean how to protect themselves. their surroundings. And when we talk in Gwich’in we find ourselves explaining it in full detail exactly what it means. And yet when we try to explain in English, we lose our Dan Weber spoke on issues dealing with sexual abuse of men and boys and also the meaning. So that’s why I tried to give you an understanding in Gwich’in and English. legalities regarding sexual abuse victims. We had 30 students in attendance. Their response was impressive, questions were good and they were respectful and mature. I was proud of In 1997, and even prior to that, all the communities along the Yukon were expressing our students and have confidence in every student that they will take this information their concerns about the water. Not necessarily the water, but they were talking about fish, the birds, about animals and all the surrounding areas. They started recognizing something seriously. Diana Weber, Yukon Koyukuk Mental Health (YKMH) Program Director, was was going wrong and they had to do something about it. If we waited, we would have been also working here in Huslia during this time. She travels to Huslia monthly to provide still waiting. It means our health, our good health. If our animals and everything around services to anyone interested in counseling. us is healthy, we as people along the Yukon River will also be healthy. That same evening we did a presentation for the adults on how to protect their We are finding out that we are not; I have immediate family members who are gone. children against sexual assault/abuse. There were 12 in attendance with a lot of feed back My assumption is that it might be from the water. Before that people didn’t get sick and personal sharing. I was very pleased with the turnout and presentations. Although around here. They died of natural death, except for other problems that existed. But this is not an easy topic to discuss, I felt confident that Huslia is definitely ready to address natural death was the way our life was. We have people that are dying. I have a friend right the issue of sexual assault and abuse. now in Anchorage with internal problems. All our friends along the Yukon, a lot of us are As we know alcohol/drug and other addictions is a result of underlying problems. We feeling the same way. And there is nothing we can do for them. And I think the only way can treat the addiction but until we began healing from our past issues of abuse, we will we can do something is by striving to take care of our water: to clean it, to do something. remain unhealthy and only seek another addiction to avoid the problem. The best advice We have done quite a bit right here in our community. Recognizing that whenever you I received as a victim is the fact that “I was not to blame and the shame doesn’t belong to see all the boats along the Yukon right down here at the river bank, there is no more oil me,” this belongs to the perpetrator. I would encourage other communities to address the cans floating down the river like there use to be. We don’t see no more barrels, we don’t see issues of past abuse. This is not an easy task to challenge, but it will make a better future for no more gas cans. We don’t see any camp sites unclean. I think that is all we are here for. our children. For more information, contact Maudy Sam, Huslia Community Counselor, We want everything clean and we come from a clean environment. We came from clean at (907) 829-2268. ancestors. And that’s why it is so important that we keep our land clean because several years ago when I was trying to get land from the outside world they wanted to know why there was no degradation of habitat. What does it mean? It means, ‘how come you didn’t ruin “...whenever you see all the Mini-Iditarod in McGrath the place before we got here so we could recognize it?’ And I said, “Hey wait a minute! boats along the Yukon right By Kathy Snow, Administrative Assistant, Upper Kuskokwim Subregion What do I have to prove to you? What can I down here at the river bank, do to prove to you that I have been on this The sun was shining but the wind made it a st land for thousands of years?” So I there is no more oil cans cold day for the 21 Annual Mini-Iditarod in immediately claimed our grandfather rights. floating down the river like McGrath, Alaska on March 26. That didn’t keep The only thing I knew is my grandfathers’ the crowd away as the first grade mushers, each right to claiming our campfire site and that is there use to be....no more with a kindergartner in the basket, took their one- the way I can claim the land. The only barrels...no more gas cans.” dog teams out from the “Anchorage” starting identification I have with my land. Otherwise point and on to “Ruby” and finally to “Nome.” it is clean. I grew up here, right along the river bank, up to the time I was 10-years-old. We The concession stand was the most popular were together; we were like one language, one people, one river – or whatever way you spot on the playground as we waited for the want to look at it. And we all spoke Gwich’in and once we all moved from here and moved mushers to come across the finish line. They did to the other side of the town we started talking English. a brisk business of selling cake, coffee, hot dogs [The children now] we didn’t teach them Gwich’in. I will tell you right now, my sisters, and home-made Popsicles. Yep, they really did I would talk to them in Gwich’in and they would talk to me in English. There are 10 in my sell Popsicles! Among the crowd, this reporter family, the first five are ‘traditional,’ the second five ‘modern.’ We say they don’t know spotted such celebrities as Mayor Dusty Parker nothing. We see our young people around the community, and even though they are and State Senator Georgianna Lincoln. I didn’t educated we say they don’t know nothing. Why? Because they don’t get the same training recognize any movie stars, but that doesn’t mean Musher Kaelen Rosander and as a ‘traditional.’ I had traditional training, meaning that I am aware of all my surroundings; they weren’t there. passenger Jamal Pasqual put the I am aware of my language, I am aware of two languages. So I can go back and forth and ice hook in to pose with speak any way I please, which is really good right now. Kindergarten-1st grade teacher Judy Kuhn Kaelen’s mom and dad, Tamera started this tradition and has it down to an art. I haven’t really heard anybody fight with us yet; except for those that are polluting it. Vanderpool and Neil Rosander, Drawings for prizes were held at each checkpoint They’re the ones fighting with us. I am hoping we can change that. Maybe we might be and little brother Justin. able to sit down and discuss the very presence of those pollutions and find out how we can while checkers were busy making sure the mushers resolve it. Everything can be done in a good way, they say. Gwich’in people are known to had the mandatory gear. Musher Kaelin Rosander do it in a good way, okay? We have and will keep doing what we are doing and maintaining and his partner Jamal Labaya won bags of gold Pictures by Tom Johnson our way of life and fighting to maintain that way of life. And that is exactly where we are (chocolate-covered coins). Musher Eva Korn and today. We are dealing with other issues, other than water. But those issues are very important her partner Christopher Tacang to us, as important as water. won the “gourmet” meal of chips, I would like to welcome, especially my friends here that I have grown to know over the a Twinkie and orange pop. years, the ones I have worked with–Peter, James, Harold, Pat and Edna. When we first Musher Rachel Roos was the lucky started out we didn’t know what was going on. We didn’t know how to bring you together winner of a (toy) monster truck like this and ask you for your blessings to say, “How can we work together?” And that is all for herself and her partner Sarah we are asking, is that somehow we need to all work together and make every effort. I will Edwards. Elementary grade just give you an example. students took jobs as vets, dog Native village of Ft. Yukon, Gwichyaa Zhee (GZ) Corporation, transferred their land handlers, checkers and race to Native village here. What does that mean? The Native people here own the land. They marshals. The kids ended the event make their decisions on the land. The corporation is only designed to accept the money by singing “I did the (Mini) that is being made off the land. So the people actually own the land here, every one of Iditarod Trail.” them. There is no difference. We have place. Our land is priceless. That is the number one goal of the GZ Corporation; that we will never sell land, not even one square inch. We are not going to, because it has been transferred, all of it back to our Native communities. Race Founder Judy Kuhn and Race Official You know what I want? I want clean water. It’s as simple as that. Wally Weckesser make the most of a beautiful day and a fun community. PAGE 10 • THE COUNCIL • APRIL 2004 SUBREGIONAL NEWS Roselyn Isaac Honored Students Visit Upper By Liz Webb, Tok Native Association President Kuskokwim subregional office Roselyn Isaac, Tok Subregional By Poppy Harris, Director, Upper Kuskokwim Subregion Director, was honored by the Tok Native Association (TNA) on February 23 at the Wellness dinner at Three Feathers in Tok. Liz Webb, TNA President, presented Rose with a Doyon blanket, “People of the Caribou,” and a signed edition by James L. Grant Sr. She also received a sun catcher made of willow, leather, beaver fur, and caribou bone, made by Gary J. John of Tanacross, and a beaded picture frame made by Myra David, a board member. This special recognition was to thank Rose for encouraging individuals to get the dissolved TNA back in operation for the The Upper Kuskokwim Subregional office in McGrath was visited by 22 students local Native people. from McGrath, Nikolai, Takotna and Lime Village. Different villages came in to participate Rose was overwhelmed with emotion in the cultural week activities at the McGrath School. This year they arranged field trips to when she realized what type of blanket she different businesses in town to learn more of what they do or have to offer. received. She was absolutely speechless. She Our staff which includes Kathy Snow – Administrative Assistant, Samantha Holmberg thanked TNA for being the first from the Upper Tanana villages to invite her to their – Health and Safety Educator, and I, presented a variety of information to the students. dinner. She didn’t know the dinner was in her honor, which was attended by approximately We talked with the students about the different programs and opportunities that TCC 70 residents of Tok and they all received small gifts as well. Everyone had an enjoyable has. We told them about youth delegates, youth councils, Youth Employment Services evening; it was a good time for all to visit, listen to presenters, and get educated about program, higher education programs, different jobs and functions, and information on various happenings in TNA, and especially to share some laughter. Answer Camp, to name a few. We talked about working with different entities and job shadowing to get an idea of what they may be interested in. Although the students had no questions at that time, we Stevens Village Tribal let them know we are available anytime. Council spearheads New Prevention Counselor for bison project Yukon Tanana The Stevens Village Tribal Council and the bison in years gone by in the Yukon Flats I help provide substance and mental health the United States Department of Agriculture- and it will be good to see bison return to prevention activities and counseling services to the Farm Service Agency announces the award meet the needs of our Tribal people.” Dewey Yukon Tanana subregion. This includes developing of the first tribal land acquisition loan to a Schwalenberg, Stevens Village Natural and implementing activities in collaboration with tribal government in Alaska. The Council Resource Director, commented “these bison other TCC and community agencies such as the has purchased 2,080 cares of farmland in are wild animals and the bison range is not village councils, schools, and clinics. I work with Delta Junction, Alaska with this loan and a typical farming operation. The Council the team at Yukon Tanana Counseling Services and will establish the Stevens Village Tribal Resource Program will manage the herd as the villages to help with developing programs, Traditional Bison Range on the land. The a wild population of animals. We need to presentations, and other activities. I will also help Council is a member of the Intertribal Bison recondition the land to bring it back into a with identifying, screening, and referring potential Cooperative, a national tribal organization wild status that will produce healthy, clients to subregional clinicians and assisting with made up of 35 tribes nationwide that assists disease-free, and chemical-free animals for crisis intervention. tribes with reestablishing bison herds for the Native people.” Prior to this new position, which began on cultural, spiritual, community economy, The USDA Natural Resource March 15, I was an on-call counselor for the Old and health purposes. The ITBC will have Conservation Service has agreed to work Minto Family Recovery Camp. I graduated with its quarterly board meeting in Fairbanks in with the Council to provide range honors in May 2003 with an Associate’s of Applied Nina DeRoche late June at the invitation of the Council. management planning and assistance. Chief Sciences degree in Addictions Counseling in the The Council will distribute bison meat to Mayo said “tribal members are excited Human Services Field at UAF. I am from the village tribal members to encourage the use of about having tribal lands and reconnecting of Aleknagik in the Bristol Bay Region of Alaska. I have one 19-year-old daughter and a subsistence resources and to reduce diseases, culturally and spiritually with bison.” He 16-year-old son. You can contact me toll-free at 800-478-6822 or locally at (907) 452-8251 such as diabetes, heart disease, and obesity. also commented that he was especially ext. 3463 or e-mail [email protected]. As the herd of bison increases, other appreciative of the federal agency and staff communities may wish to access bison for efforts to bring this project to its beginning. the same purposes. The Council will begin He said, “We couldn’t have done it without construction of fencing and handling their help. We hope that other Tribes will be Alaska Northern facilities this summer and will use tribal able to work with these agencies toward members as the workforce for building, similar projects as a result of the Stevens Forest Cooperative maintaining, and operating the facility. The Village Councils’ efforts.” plan calls for 200 bison to be introduced What is the Alaska Northern Forest Cooperative? A group formed in May 2003 to into the range, where they will be free to live For more information, please contact exchange information among forest scientists, forest managers, and forest landowners in as near a wild experience as possible. The First Chief Randy Mayo at (907) 978-1670, northern Alaska. The term “northern forest” includes boreal forest and taiga extending Council herd will remain separated from Dewey Schwalenberg, Natural Resource over much of mainland Alaska but excludes the coastal spruce-fir forest. The Cooperative the State herd that roams the Delta area. Director, at (907) 230-0663, or Dale Carlson, has a technical focus and is not a political or advocacy organization. However, it recognizes Farm Service Agency Loan Officer, at (907) that non-technical or traditional knowledge has value in forest management and that Randy Mayo, First Chief of the Council, 761-7752. stated “our ancestors were dependent upon learning occurs by collaboration among scientists, landowners, and forest managers. Why was it formed? Landowners and forest managers often lack current information on how to best manage their forested lands for economic development, subsistence products, Manley celebrates with prime rib feast or other values. The Cooperative is designed to help interested parties exchange information Manley hosted a and define information needs. Valentine’s Party as a Who are the members? The Cooperative is composed of individuals interested in forest management who represent various entities in Alaska, including private landowners, part of the Wellness government (federal, state, local), Native corporations, and the University of Alaska. program. Over 50 What are benefits of membership? The Cooperative meets twice a year (spring and people attended the autumn) for business and sponsors at least one workshop or field trip each year separate prime rib dinner on from the meetings. Business meetings are for exchanging information between Cooperative Feb 14. Everyone members, reviewing progress on existing projects, discussing new projects, and planning enjoyed soft workshops or field trips. The Cooperative has started an on-going summary of existing background music research projects and data sets of potential use in managing the northern forest. Cooperative during dinner. It was a members are also working on a website to make information widely available for drug- and alcohol-free downloading at locations that have internet access. event with an What does it cost to be a member? There is no membership cost, but you may have to travel to attend meetings or workshops. Members must attend at least one of three informational table to Jacob Catlin, Robert Lee, and Kjetil Jervsjo. consecutive meetings to remain on the contact list. show services available What are the responsibilities of membership? A member is expected to participate in through TCC and the meetings, be willing to volunteer with projects on occasion, and provide technical Manley Tribal Council information or traditional knowledge of benefit to other Cooperative members. for aiding in prevention How can I become a member? To be on the membership list, contact Bob Ott, co-chair, and recovery. The TCC Forestry Program, at (907) 452-8251 ext. 3376 or vial email at dinner was coordinated [email protected] or Tom Paragi, Alaska Department of Fish and Game, Division by Sabrina Jervsjo and of Wildlife Conservation, at (907) 459-7327 or via email at her husband Espen. [email protected]. Written correspondence should be sent to: Alaska Brooke and Northern Forest Cooperative, c/o Dr. Robert Wheeler, Alaska Cooperative Extension Danielle Woods. Service, P.O. Box 756180, Fairbanks, AK 99775-6180. APRIL 2004 • THE COUNCIL • PAGE 11 NEWS FOR OUR PEOPLE Lead shot dangerous Five fire deaths so far Five Alaskans have already died from fire and it is only the middle of March. The when hunting waterfowl Alaska State Fire Marshal reminds everyone to be respectful of the danger of fire. Three of those fatalities have occurred in the Anchorage area. Alcohol usage was a contributing By Jenny Bryant, U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, Galena, Alaska factor in four of the five deaths. • A male died from a fire ignited by unattended cooking. The smoke alarm did not that in the long-term, the effects operate because the battery was missing. of lead on the birds we depend • A male died in an electrical fire on a marine vessel. It is unknown if a smoke on are devastating. alarm was present. Lead shot not only affect • A male died in a fire caused by combustibles too close to a heating device. A birds. It can be dangerous smoke alarm wasn’t installed in the home. effects for the people who eat • A male died in a fire caused by them too. Studies in Greenland careless smoking. A smoke alarm Fire Safety Reminders have shown that lead was not installed in the home. 1. Use caution when smoking and concentrations in the breast A male died in a fire caused by • consuming alcohol or medication. meat of birds harvested with smoking materials. Fortunately the 2. Keep matches and lighters away lead shot were 10 times higher smoke alarm alerted the other that those that were harvested occupants of the fire and they were from children. without lead shot. High lead able to escape. 3. Supervise cooking at all times. concentrations were found in The State Fire Marshal’s Office reminds 4. Keep combustibles three feet away birds even after all visible lead you to help keep your family safe by from heat sources. pellets were removed. That is preventing fires in your home. For more 5. If you must smoke, smoke because tiny lead fragments information, contact Jodie Hettrick, Alaska outside. remain in the meat after the shot Fire Marshal’s Office, at (907) 269-5052 or 6. Dispose of smoking materials in a passes through it. A person email [email protected]. metal container or deep ashtray. The author and her early hunting partners. eating one boiled duck (shot with lead) in soup was estimated Spring hunting season is fast to receive two times the average daily lead Athabascan to compete in Australia approaching. By the end of April, geese will intake for all dietary sources and 25 times be returning to Interior Alaska followed by more lead than they would get from other Rebekah Butler Harasick is the granddaughter of Shirley Butler and great- the ducks in May, and people will be able to native food items. The degree of lead granddaughter of the late Josephine Evans of Stevens Village, and is a young, successful enjoy fresh roasted birds and soups. Spring concentrations varies from bird to bird, swimmer in her home state of Washington. Rebekah will be one of the athletes participating waterfowl hunting has always been depending on the extent of fragmentation in Sports Tours USA, representing the United States in the swimming competition from important to rural Alaskans as it provides of the pellets as they pass through or lodge July 16-26 in Australia. Rebekah says, “I am very proud of this privilege and opportunity because I will be the only Athabascan athlete in the group; I will be recognized as a Global a welcomed change in diet from the winter in the breast meat. These studies analyzed All-American Athlete and be eligible for CSA prepstar, the leading college athletic scholarship fare, not to mention it is a great time of year lead concentrations after all visible shot was assistance program.” to be out enjoying the warmer weather and carefully removed. When people observing the seasonal changes. accidentally swallow lead pellets they are Her trip will cost $4,000 and she is seeking assistance through a raffle for two grand Unfortunately, this traditional harvest can exposed to even higher quantities of lead. prize trips to the Super Bowl and the NCAA Final Four, and various NCAA sports expose both the birds, and the people who Lead can harm almost every organ and memorabilia. By purchasing these $10 raffle tickets, you will aid in Rebekah’s efforts to successfully represent the United States in Australia. The raffle ends on June 30 and you eat the birds, to dangerous levels of poisons system in the human body, particularly the can purchase tickets by calling Shirley Butler at (907) 488-4640 or (907) 451-3128. if you are hunting with lead shot. central nervous system. Lead exposure is Lead shot can build up in wetlands or more dangerous for the unborn and young wherever hunters fire their shotguns. Ducks, children as their nervous and immune Miss WEIO to participate in Miss Indian geese, and swans ingest the toxic lead pellets system are still developing. The risk may be when feeding and eating just one lead pellet considerable, and can be eliminated by using World Pageant can kill a bird. Studies have shown that non-toxic shot. approximately 1/3 of all ducks in the You can help to ensure that the Erica Cleaver, 2003 Miss Nuchalawoyya and 2003 Miss continental population may consume lead waterfowl you hunt and eat won’t be World Eskimo-Indian Olympics, will participate in the Miss in a given year. For this reason, lead shot contaminated by lead. Please use non-toxic Indian World Pageant in Albuquerque, New Mexico on has been declared illegal for harvesting shot, such as steel or bismuth when you are April 22-24. She is very proud of her Athabascan culture and waterfowl in the United States since 1991. hunting waterfowl. It is not only a moral is ecstatic about sharing it with the Nation. Her parents the Anyone possessing lead shot while hunting obligation of keeping you and your family late Joseph and Bess Cleaver, her grandparents the late waterfowl will be subject to law enforcement safe, but it is also the law. Our elders taught Sanders and Evelyn Cleaver; the late Bessie Wholecheese and action. Many people have resisted making us to protect our resources to ensure they Edgar Nollner; and Eleanor Bryant. Her siblings are Pamela, the switch to non-toxic shot using the will always be there when we need them – Shirley, Joseph, and Clifford. argument that steel shot would cripple more here is your chance to take action. For more ducks that lead because steel is less dense. information, please call Jenny, Biologist in Erica is a positive role model for youth interested in But steel, when hunters adjust for the Galena, at (907) 656-1231 or toll-free at obtaining their goals, whether through education or leading different shot pattern, can be just as effective 800-656-1231. by example. She is experienced in assisting activities for Galena, as lead. Many hunters, both young and old, such as the Suicide Prevention Committee, softball, and have made the switch because they realize working with youth through Loudon Village Council. Erica ultimately decided to leave Galena in order to obtain her Master’s Degree in Social Work at the Washington University, which will be completed in December. Part of Erica’s knowledge of her culture can be portrayed in her ability to 2004 Doyon Foundation produce beautiful Native beadwork taught to her at a young age by her grandmother, Evelyn. Along with being notorious for her crafts, her other talents include preparing North American traditional foods. Whether butchering a moose, jarring salmon, or picking berries, Erica will use her knowledge of the Athabascan way of life to ensure that her family will have Basketball Tournament Results plenty of traditional foods to enjoy. Erica’s motivation for leadership is accompanied by her passion to help others succeed in their own lives. Her education is a perfect example of Women’s Bracket Raffle Winners how Erica is able to learn, grow, and then bring that knowledge back to the community. 1. The Adventurer’s – Anchorage Grand Prize Winner Paul Erhart: River Hero 2. Barrow Mechanical Miranda Wright: 3. Hotel McGrath - Doyon 2004 Bombardier 50 E-Tec Award recipient Outboard Motor Men’s Bracket By Rob Rosenfeld, Alaska Region Director, Yukon River Inter-Tribal Watershed Council 1. Tanana Second Prize Paul Erhart has been selected for a River Hero 2. Barrow Luke Demientieff Jr.: Award from the River Network. The award will be 3. Angoon 300 Magnum Savage w/scope & cases presented at the annual River Rally in Virginia during the last week in May. There will be people Master’s Bracket from more than 600 watershed efforts nationwide Third Prize Winner attending; Paul will receive this award in front of 1. Northern Lights Heating & Nicole Jordan: 1,500-2,000 people. Please consider attending this years’ River Rally to see Paul receive the award, Cooling Two round-trip tickets on Frontier Flying Service which is considered the ‘Academy Awards’ of river 2. Allakaket Blazers protection. 3. Chisana View – Northway Thank you for all of your support towards Fourth PrizeWinner Paul and for your solidarity with the Yukon River Sandy Johnson: Inter-Tribal Watershed Council. For information, Barb Beatus sold the winning ticket! Official 2004 North American contact Rob Rosenfeld, Alaska Region Director, at Shirley Cleaver sold the most tickets! Basketball Tournament Leather Jacket (907) 451-2530 or via email at [email protected]. You can congratulate Paul at (907) 366-7173. PAGE 12 • THE COUNCIL • APRIL 2004 NEWS FOR OUR PEOPLE To speak or not to speak? Preserving our culture By Courtney Moore, UAF Student from By Jenny Bryant, from Galena, Alaska Part 2 of 2 Tanana, Alaska Part 2 of 2 Courtney, 19, is a Koyukon Athabascan from Tanana, Jenny is an Athabascan who was born and Alaska and the daughter of Lorene (Jordan) and Pat Moore raised in Galena. She attended Galena City of Tanana, a renowned family of dog mushers. She is the Schools through high school and received a B.S. granddaughter of Carrie Jordan and is currently attending in Wildlife Biology from the University of Alaska, the University of Alaska, Fairbanks, working towards Fairbanks. Jenny currently works as a wildlife obtaining her bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences. biologist in Galena. Boarding schools in the early 1900’s strongly prohibited Many people still work hard to make a good the use of one’s Native tongue; the schools were meant to living and a nice home for themselves, but “civilize” Natives and teach them western ways. Later, many assistance programs abound so that if you don’t former students regretted that they lost the ability to speak want to work, you really don’t have to. And it’s their Native language fluently. My grandmother was put into human nature to take the easy way, especially if elementary school when she was young, and in her short stay it’s what your parents did and your peers do. her teachers strongly prohibited the use of our Native tongue. Working hard has become quite a quandary What did people and teachers perceive wrong with our today. Having to work too hard is not good for Native ways? People believed that Native languages were of a you, but not working hard enough is bad for barbaric and savage existence; therefore, they longed for the you too. When you put your blood, sweat, and end of such appalling lifestyles. Bruce Tiedeman, an Aleut from tears into something, maybe building a house or the Chugach region, remembers reading signs in the 1950’s working for those paychecks to buy one, chances are you’re going to gain a lot of pride and saying “No Dogs or Natives Allowed.” Natives were pushed to switch to the superior ownership. You want to take care of what you language because they may have believed that it will improve their social and financial have and are grateful for it because you don’t status. More often than not, small communities automatically switched over without a want to have to go through that all over again- Jenny “Boomer” Bryant and second thought. People are not being pushed to speak their language anymore. that was a lot of work! But for everything that is daughter Tirzah. Why is the Native population lacking the determination? The “Western Ways” is a given freely without even the barest expectation reason why people lose interest. Rather than taking the time to learn their language, people of having to work for it, pride and ownership slips away little by little, until the recipient’s would rather spend time with their family, playing sports, shopping, getting on the internet, pride is replaced by false sense of entitlement. All of a sudden everyone owes you something, or watching television. People lack the motivation to really exert themselves to find the especially if they have more than you do. This is why Grandpa Sidney Huntington says, resources and materials needed to learn their language. Native people may have come to “handouts and welfare ruins people.” How many times have we seen HUD homes believe that there is no hope or use for their language anymore, and don’t wish to pursue disintegrate before our eyes, just because the occupants could not rouse themselves to do it. Parents need to give children hope and the aspiration to want to learn their language. even the bare minimum of the maintenance required for upkeep? And when the house is Parents are the most important factor in their children’s lives, and they need to uninhabitable, they either get a new one built for them again or the houses are refurbished, incorporate the use of their language with children. Parents are the first teachers of their at no cost to the occupant. The message it sends is loud and clear and received by all, children and provide the foundation on which the language learning rests. When I was in including our very impressionable youth. elementary school, my mother took a Native language class for a winter, and by doing so, Our Nation’s welfare system started for a good reason. It had a noble and heartfelt she aroused my interest as well. Unfortunately, she did not have the time in her schedule to beginning, and is still a grand idea at its core. But tragically since its inception, welfare has keep up with her studies and could not continue learning. been ever increasing and so pervasive that the cause and effect have diverged to become an What are other reasons children aren’t getting the proper education needed to speak inescapable cycle of the dependence. We now live in a society of welfare dependence that their language? Schools are another reason children aren’t getting the proper educational has become a monster, slowly undermining our culture, weakening us as a people. I can needs to learn their language. Schools need to be fully engaged with the life of the see it insidiously incorporated into our Native cultures. Through this system of dependence communities they serve so as to provide consistency of expectations in all aspects of we are teaching our own people that because we are Native, we deserve to be taken care of. student’s lives. In elementary school, my class and I were occasionally exposed to several And there are non-Natives out there who feed this dependence by constantly telling us we Elders, such as Effie Kokrine, who were fluent Athabascan speakers. Sadly, the school did do deserve to be taken care of. It is a school of victims. So our Tribes are given money by not persist in bringing them in after I completed second grade, and I believe that I would and in turn demand more money from the government (who, by the way are the American know more than I know today if they continued. The teachers then and now in that school taxpayers) so that we can assert ourselves as a sovereign people. Yes, the history of Native cannot speak Athabascan fluently. people in North America is littered with injustices, but so are the histories of all people Although schools are an important part of children’s lives, community organizations everywhere. Where do we draw the line for accountability? We can go back centuries and are also just as important. Community organizations are other ways children identify ask for compensation for injustices done to our ancestors, but who will pay? The innocent with their background and culture, which enables them to formulate a generalization descendants who are just trying to make their own way today? And how much is enough? regarding their language. Communities today are gradually weakening in their attempts The cold, hard, truth is that each man is accountable for only himself and we are entitled to save their Native languages. Native communities and organizations must provide a to only what we are willing to carve out of life with our own two hands. The American healthy and supportive environment that reinforces the language on a daily basis. As a government is not responsible for helping us preserve our culture and traditions-it is child and a young adult, I actively participated in any potlatches, Native dancing, and completely and unequivocally our own business. gatherings. Elders usually gave thanks and prayers in Athabascan, and as a typical child, No one can take away our culture unless we let go of it “Handouts and I never took the time to comprehend what they had said. Although these factors do lead ourselves. And that is just what is happening. Alaskan Native welfare ruins to the extinction of languages, there is hope in saving these dying languages. cultures have survived thousands of years, yet they began There are many languages around the world that have taken the right precautions in disappearing the moment we made contact with outside people. people.” keeping their languages alive. The Hebrew language was an extinct language for several Why? Because many of the ways of the modern world are -Sidney millenniums, but was revived by the modern state of Israel and is now spoken by millions easier and make life more comfortable. Our grandparents were of people. I visited Unalakleet and Point Hope for basketball trips, and they had teachers no fools. Medicine to save your child’s life? Ways and means of Huntington who taught the children their language throughout a period of the day. With the necessary, acquiring and storing food that ensure you and your family absolute determination of the people themselves, it has been shown that languages can be won’t starve? Yes we’ll take it! Outside influences have changed our culture forever, but we revived. The Coquille tribe in Oregon is working to revitalize their extinct Miluk language; must have the grace to acknowledge that it wasn’t by force. We accepted these changes and their only materials are tape recordings of the last living speakers from the 1930’s. Many now some of us are blaming others for or demanding to be compensated for the loss of Native people are faced with the realization that their language may become extinct. the old ways. We have to be wise enough to recognize what is good in our culture, what made us who we are, and try to blend it with the way our world is today. It is a powerful What can people do to save their languages? Native people and communities need to gift to be able to recognize that change is a part of being alive and it’s not always a bad realize the danger in which their languages reside. They need to step up and take affirmative thing. We must guard against hypocrisy when asserting ourselves as Native people or action in finding new ways to help save their language. Community members must make calling ourselves a First Nation. Here is where we, as a people, must fight hard to stand on themselves available to listen, speak, and learn their languages. Native communities and our own. It is imperative that we find a way to disentangle ourselves from the government, organizations must create programs for tribal members to learn and study their languages. sever that dependence, to enable us to once again become our own people, both as Parents need to immerse themselves and their children in those programs available to Americans and Natives. This may sound like a ridiculously insurmountable aspiration, them. Elders have to interact with the community and aspiring language learners in the but we can start little and work toward the future. We need to regain our pride, the pride traditional ways. Schools need to find fluent speaking teachers and immerse children in that ensures we would rather break our backs than endure the stinging shame of asking their Native heritages. Native people must think about the future and how their children’s outsiders for help. That strength and fortitude to make your own way is what kept our lives will be affected if their language is lost. ancestors alive and is what will keep our culture alive today. We need to learn history and Knowing one’s language gives a person a sense of identity and opportunity to keep become aware of what hard times really are. Teaching your kids how to live in our land, to such an exquisite entity alive. Every language has its own divine spark of life; philosophers respect and take care of our resources, to learn firsthand what our ancestors really had to have said that languages are forms of life. People do not have any right to decide if a do to survive, will give them the appreciation needed to care whether they are Athabascan language should be superior to another. “Diversity is an important aspect of a young or not. person’s life, our Native languages keep our identity alive,” said Joseph Thomas, a young Gwichyaa Gwich’in from Fort Yukon. Today, I find myself thinking of all the Native words that I know and try to incorporate them into my everyday life. I have heard several Elders 2004 Association of Interior Native say, “A person is not an Indian if they cannot speak their language.” As an Athabascan Native, I believe that my culture, my heritage and my language are vital parts of knowing Educators Raffle Winners who I am. $5,000 Alberta Vent $500 Minto Flats Shootout VIII Elizabeth Stickman/Virginia Patsy Don Honea Sr. April 16-18 Entry Fee: $250 Judy Nolan/Marcus Nolan There are a limited amount of rooms available at the Minto Lodge. For more Ken Newman information, contact Vicky Charlie at (907) 798-7212 or email [email protected]. Veronica Charley