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. 32, NO. 6 A REPORT TO THE MEMBER TRIBES OF THE TANANA CHIEFS CONFERENCE NOVEMBER 2007 TCC Energy Summit By Margaret Mathew, Will Putman and Bob Sattler

Tanana Chiefs Conference (TCC) is convening an Energy Summit on November Tanana Chiefs Conference 13-15 at the Chena River Convention Center to provide a forum for the discussion of energy concerns among Tribes in Interior Alaska. The summit will consist of a one-day Christmas10am to 6pm Bazaar session of presentations on November 13 from Alaska Native leaders and State and Federal November 30, 2007 officials involved with the gas pipeline project. The following two days will be devoted Chief David Salmon Tribal Hall to participation in the Alaska Wood Energy Conference, a state-wide meeting on wood For more information, energy being organized by United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural contact (907) 452-8251 ext. 3108 Development, USDA Forest Service, Alaska Energy Authority, Denali Commission, Alaska Department of Natural Resources, UAF Cooperative Extension, Bureau of Indian Affairs, We will have a variety of Native Crafts from Birch Bark Baskets, Beaded Earrings, Fairbanks Economic Development Corporation, and TCC. We will bring in delegates Gloves and Slippers, Homemade Children/Adult hats, music and much more. We from all Interior Villages for this important meeting and will hold a Tribal caucus at the will be featuring informational booths of other Native Organizations, Employment end of the meeting to obtain directives from Tribes on energy issues and priorities for Opportunities and More. Anyone interested in playing Christmas music is welcome the TCC region. to perform but must not interfere with the bazaar activities. 1 Alaska Natural Gas Pipeline Session Looking for Native-owned Businesses November 13 The Purchasing Department is updating our Alaska Native Business Directory. Buy On November 13, TCC is inviting delegates from our villages to attend a series of Indian is required under PL93-638 and will be exercised whenever possible for all presentations concerning the potential impacts, effects, and benefits of proposed natural purchases. Exception to this is purchases of State of Alaska Department of Health and gas pipeline projects. The Gas Pipeline Session will be structured to inform Tribal Social Services. leadership on the status of the pipeline projects and to understand needs, opportunities Indian Preference and constraints regarding Tribal participation. One important component is to Indian tribal organizations and entities will be given preferential treatment in matters understand how Tribal communities along the proposed route will be involved in the of purchasing goods, services and facilities in accordance with requirements giving Indian state and federal permitting processes. We are inviting decision-makers to explain the preference as stated in the Federal Code of Regulations (CFR) and the mandate of PL93- process by which TCC Tribes can get involved in any or all stages of the project. 638. This preference shall extend to the acceptance of up to, and including, at ten percent Particularly important is to understand how TCC and member Tribes can be (10%) variance to the nearest price quoted. meaningfully involved in the “fast-tracked” environmental review process (or, the environmental impact statement assessment leading up to permitting). TCC has held If you are interested in placing your Alaska Native/Indian-owned Business in our several meetings during the past four years with state, federal and tribal leadership on directory, please fill out the attached form and fax, email or mail to: Tanana Chiefs becoming involved in the permitting process as a cooperating agency. This is especially Conference, Attn: Purchasing Department, 122 First Avenue, Suite 600 important for areas under the TCC compact where there is special expertise or legal Fairbanks, AK 99701. You may email [email protected] or fax: jurisdiction over Native affairs such as the trust services: Realty, Forestry and Wildlife (907) 459-3854. We would like to have our book complete by December 1, 2007. and Parks. For further information contact Bob Sattler toll-free at 800-478-6682 or locally at (907) 452-8251 ext. 3343 or email [email protected]. 2 Alaska Wood Energy Conference November 14-15 On November 14-15, TCC will host the Alaska Wood Energy Conference, a statewide meeting for people and organizations interested in alternative energy solutions and opportunities using woody biomass. There will be a stimulating and interesting array of speakers during the Wood Energy Conference, and a trade show that will allow people to view first-hand products and services available from vendors and organizations working with wood energy solutions. A tribal caucus/reception will be held to discuss ongoing or new initiatives in the TCC region and to plan for additional wood energy projects. Anybody who is interested in staying informed on the details of the meetings should contact TCC Forestry toll-free 800-478-6682 or locally at (907) 452-8251 ext. 3373 or email [email protected], and we will keep you posted on more details. TCC will issue a written report on the outcome of the 2007 Energy Summit and make it available to anyone who is unable to attend. The report will be written in a manner that could be used by Tribes and government agencies to build on the issues and priorities for the region. We hope that this meeting will contribute to innovative solutions to the long-term energy issues or problems faced by villages in rural Alaska. For more information about the general organization of the meeting, call Margaret Mathew at ext. 3438.

TFYS & ICWA Training The fall time season is often times thought of as a time for reflection. As we work with children and families it is important to stop and gather together for more learning. We are looking forward to the annual Tribal Family Youth Specialist (TFYS) training. We will meet November 6-8 at the Chena River Convention Center. We are inviting all the TFYS, ICWA Workers and other tribal court personnel who would like to participate. Looking after the safety of our children is stressful; so we purposefully scheduled this training during the Annual Fiddler’s Festival so that we can de-stress and have a good time dancing and meeting up with friends and loved ones after our work time. We hope that each tribe can send someone as we learn from each other and the broadest perspective is so enlightening for all of us. Please pencil in these dates now and look for our registration and agenda that will be sent to each of the Tribal Council offices. May you have a safe and prosperous fall gathering season, Mishal Gaede, Family Support Specialist–and all of the Child Protection Program staff. For more information, contact Denise Callahan, CPP Administrative Assistant, toll-free at 800- 478-6682 or locally at (907) 452-8251 ext. 3495, or Mishal Gaede at ext. 3478. To read more about the Purchasing Department, see page 4... PAGE 2 • THE COUNCIL • NOVEMBER 2007 Tanana Chiefs Conference A warrior’s journey A wife and her children were taking their beloved warrior on his final journey. As the caravan drove along the highway, a huge eagle followed overhead, gracefully swooping and circling as if to say, “Don’t hurry, take your The Council is a monthly report to the member tribes of the Tanana Chiefs time and let me enjoy the beautiful scenery…” As the Conference, in accordance with agreements with the Bureau of Indian Affairs family reached their destination, all present witnessed the and the Indian Health Service. Letters to the editor, other written contributions eagle as it circled several times just above the tree line and photo submissions are welcome. However, space is limited and program near the church before flying off towards the mountains oriented news has priority. TCC reserves the right to edit or reject material. as the warriors body was being laid in estate. Letters and opinions are not necessarily the opinions of Tanana Chiefs The ground, not wanting to yield, ever so slowly gave Conference. Material submitted anonymously will not be published. way to the constant barrage of the pick- axes and shovels Contributions and questions may be directed to: as the young men worked diligently around the clock The Council taking turns digging. It was their desire to honor their Ginger Placeres, Editor father and uncle, the man that had given so much of himself to them. They all agreed that Tanana Chiefs Conference this would be done the right way, the way they were taught. 122 First Avenue, Suite 600 On Sunday as the vehicle backed up to the church ramp there again above his family Fairbanks, Alaska 99701 and friends a beautiful eagle circled, swooping down then soaring high not resting until the Phone: (907) 452-8251 ext. 3570 warriors casket was firmly set into the truck safe and secure for his final journey home. Toll-free within Alaska: As he was being laid to rest, the ministers’ words seemed to sound off in the distance, 1-800-478-6822 ext. 3570 his wife, with their children beside her, felt as if her heart was being placed in the ground Toll-free from outside Alaska: with her beloved husband. And as the burial service came to an end the warriors eldest son began to sing a beautiful song in honor of his father, a man who meant so much to so many 1-800-770-8251 ext. 3570 people, a man that will always be loved and missed. May his memory live long in the hearts Fax: (907) 459-3851 of Alaskans of every persuasion... E-mail: [email protected] On May 14, 2007 the 25th Alaska State Legislature honored the life and accomplishments of Vernon Lee Joseph. A beloved husband, father, grandfather, uncle, brother, friend and mentor. This honoring was also for his extraordinary sense of humanity which showed convincingly through his smile, humor, selflessness and IN InTHIS This IssueISSUE dedication to those in recovery. Vernon was born July 20, 1950 and passed away on February 24, 2007. His final resting place is on family land in the village of Northway, on a hillside overlooking the Tanana Chiefs Conference...... 1-4 mountains, streams and rivers where he loved hunting and fishing. On behalf of our children and grandchildren, I would like to honor the following Client Development...... 5 men who tirelessly dug his grave: His sons, Vernon Roberts and Sean Baker, friends and Employment & Training...... 6 relatives:Roy, Howard and Stephan Sam; Nathan and Daniel Stevens; Norman Gallen Jr.; Kevin Maher; Owen Solomon; Nick Cook; William and Chaaiy Albert; and Mike Tribal Development...... 7 Lynot. I would also like to thank all the women that worked just as hard to keep the men and many visitors who traveled fed. The graveside work was overseen by: Vernon’s father- Health Services...... 8-9 in-law, Ken Baker Sr. and some of his friends: Harry Fields; Nick Hubalik; and Hugh Walker. His fence was built by his brother-in-law, Tom Ervin and painted by his wife News for our People...... 10-12 Rhonda, daughter V, and family friends Joanna Peppinger and Skyler Solomon. May God bless each and every one of you for your support during these past six months as this has been a difficult transition in our lives. We will remember you always. Many thanks from the Beltz Family With love and prayers, We, along with my mom MaryAnn Beltz, Rhonda B. Joseph and family and all my Family members, would like to say Fairbanks, Alaska “Basee’” and extend our gratitude for the extreme generosity of all the people that attended the fundraiser, and who so Dear Editor, generously gave their gifts of donations and My name is Michele Wiley and I am a shareholder of Doyon, Ltd. and Baan O Yeel time to help my family. Our thanks cannot be Kon Corporation (Rampart’s Village Corporation). I am the granddaughter of Annie measured. Thank you, Louie & Michael Beltz (Ts’Sedla) Pitka Woods and Alfred Lyman Woods of Rampart. My mother — Elizabeth (“Bessie”) Woods Wiley – is Annie and Alfred’s youngest child. Conversations regarding my Athabascan heritage were a topic at my daughter’s recent wedding and motivated me to open the box of Woods genealogy documents that I had Dear Editor, received from Massachusetts Cousin Virginia (“Ginny”) Ledegang Mucciaccio in the Hi, my name is Carolyn Yazzie, and I’d like to take this time to say a great big “thank mid 1990’s. Thanks to the “World Wide Web” I was able to locate Cousin Ginny, Cousin you” to my family, friends, and coworkers for everything you all did for me from the Rick Devin, Cousin Claude Keogh Woods, and Cousin Mike Devin. You can imagine fundraiser, donating leave to me, to the prayers, letters, and visiting me while in the my shock when I learned that our ‘master genealogists’ have continued the Woods hospital. I just want everyone to know how much I really appreciated what everyone did research and have taken many of our family lines back to the year 411. for me. I feel very blessed with having great friends, coworkers, and a wonderful family for all the support I got from everyone. After trading emails back and forth, we decided upon creating our own Woods I’d like to thank the following people: my family for bringing me home from the Family Genealogy website (www.treesinthewoods.com). The website represents years hospital in Anchorage, taking care of me; Sherri and Tommy Kriska for help with my of research, devotion, and hard work. We are proud to say that our website does not sister’s ticket to go with me to Oregon; Joy Simon, Velma and Larry Schaffer; Richard offer just the “run of the mill” genealogy charts and we believe there is interesting and Anna Frank; Auntie Buncy and family; Amiee Aloysius; Scott and Dawn Partlow; information that will appeal to everyone! While we have notified relatives for which we Renee Nicholson; Jeri Knabe; the TCC Dental staff; Orie Williams; Frank and Tara have contact information, we know there are many other family members that we can Thompson; and to everyone who donated prizes to be raffled; everyone who helped reach through this article. with the fundraiser; also a big thank you to those I forgot to mention, there was just so many people to thank! We are dedicated to making our family tree grow! We need assistance in filling in missing information from earlier generations, as well as updating information on the newest generations. Our goal is to include all individuals that verifiably connect to our Sincerely, “Woods Family Tree,” whether through marriage, direct descent, or lateral connections. Carolyn M. Yazzie So, if you think you may be related to our Woods family and you have computer access, Fairbanks, Alaska please visit our website (www.treesinthewoods.com). We would also ask that you contact us (via the email addresses on the website in the “Contact Us” section) with family information so that we may update and “grow” our family tree! If you do not have Attention 1958 Mt. Edgecumbe High computer access, please feel free to contact Michele Wiley, 3505 Stargate Circle, Anchorage, Alaska, 99517 (phone: 907-248-2230) with any questions or family School Graduates information that you may have. Next year will be our olden, big 50th Anniversary since graduating from boarding Thank you for assisting us in making our Woods Genealogy project a success! school in Sitka, Alaska. I am hoping readers will be interested in having a reunion. My mailing address is Blanch Vest, PO Box 74343, Fairbanks, AK 99707. My home Sincerely, phone is (907) 488-0981. I’ve never organized something like this so I don’t have Michele Wiley the slightest idea how to start but maybe together we can organize a great tradition! Anchorage, Alaska NOVEMBER 2007 • THE COUNCIL • PAGE 3 Tanana Chiefs Conference New Human Returning Facilities Manager Resources Staff Cliff Joseph returned to Tanana Chiefs Conference (TCC) and has been the Facilities Manager since August. He supervises five staff Long-time members and oversees completion of all TCC employees maintenance for Fairbanks-based facilities. It’s transition to the responsibility of Facilities to maintain all Human buildings like the Bertha Moses Patient Hostel, Resources, left the Al Ketzler Sr. Building, Chena River to right: Convention Center, and others. Cliff has Roxanne worked at TCC for 21 years and left for a time Frank, Gloria to work as a Receiving Manager at the Riley, and Terri Sportsman’s Warehouse. Smoke. Cliff has two daughters, Michelle and Janelle, and a son, Bubba. His extended family includes two brothers and six sisters, all of whom are from Tanana originally. Initially, the family totaled 13 siblings. He enjoys athletics in general; running, softball, basketball, and watching his kids The Human Resources Department Human Resources management and participate in sports. Michelle runs the would like to welcome the following three marketing. Fairbanks Women’s Basketball Association. new (long-time) employees to their Terri said she is glad to be on board Cliff oversaw the Golden Heart Native Athletic department: Terri Belle Smoke, Roxanne with the Human Resources Department. Association with Daisy Stevens. The association hosted fundraising basketball Frank and Gloria Riley. We are very happy She already feels comfortable and she says tournaments for patients receiving cancer treatment, most had to travel out of state to to have all three on board. Michelle Andon “we have an awesome staff.” receive care at that time. is now working exclusively with Health Roxanne Frank is one of our new There used to be a TCC marathon team that Cliff participated in from 1987-1992. Services in all phases of recruitment, and Mike Graaf named them the “TCC Trans-Chilkoot Crawlers” and they ran 112 miles in employee relations. Gloria Finney has Human Resources Generalists. Roxanne will be our new Recruiter. Roxanne started the Klondike Road Relay, from Skagway to Whitehorse. Cliff was formerly a President returned to her former position as of Tozitna, Limited; a two-term board member and Vice President of the Fairbanks Administrative Secretary. as a Probate Clerk in the Realty Department and was promoted to Realty Native Association; a board member for the Interior Youth Basketball; and a World There have been many positive Specialist. Later,Roxanne started working Eskimo Indian Olympics Board Member for one term. changes already. Terri has taken on the in the Self Governance Department as the filing system and has enlisted the help of Tribal Development Coordinator. Roxanne TCC’s new insurance Administration’s Kate Greenway to get our is originally from Minto and is the filing system up to par. Terri is also working daughter of Richard and Anna Frank. By Brian Stevens, Stevens Financial with Joel Titus to learn data entry for new Roxanne has three children: Gilbert, Mark hires, terminations, rate changes, etc. into and David. Roxanne enjoys beading and Tanana Chiefs Conference is to be Oracle. Gloria has taken the onerous task reading and is happy to be joining the congratulated on its management decision of gathering all information from our Human Resources Department. Roxanne to change Administrators for claims paying benefited employees and working with has taken on PCN’s, screenings, initial under the new health plan. I say new because, Premera/Blue Cross to transition into our background checks, and all aspects relating though the plan design hasn’t changed overall new Health Care Plan. to recruitment. Joel Titus will be working with regard to deductibles and out of pocket Terri Belle Smoke is our new Program with classification and oracle expenses for employees, it does have a new company that will take care of employees Assistant. Prior to coming to HR Terri implementation. needs for claims, questions and service. Premera Blue Cross Blue Shield of Alaska has been named the new administrator for the TCC health benefit plan effective worked in the Employment and Training Gloria Riley is also an HR Generalist Department for the last five years. October 1, 2007 and whose reputation is excellent here in Alaska and throughout and will be working with benefits the U.S. As a local broker here in Fairbanks, I stand ready to serve the needs of all Terri is originally from Tanacross and administration. Gloria is originally from TCC employees and their dependence to answer questions or concerns on this lives in Fairbanks with her husband of ten Minto. She has two sons: Greg, 30, and transition of coverage. Please do not hesitate in calling me at my office number, years Charles Smoke. Terri and Charles Patrick, 22. Gloria is grandmother to (907) 458-0101, I am happy to review coverage with you. All coverage for prescriptive both attend collage at the University of Aiyana, 3, as Gloria says “my pride and joy.” medicine, vision and dental will remain at the same level as it was under Great Alaska while working full-time. Terri was Gloria has been working for TCC since West. Lastly, all current deductibles and out of pocket expenses incurred this year raised in Tanacross by her Grandmother, March 1983. Prior, she worked in under the former plan will be honored with Premera Blue Cross Blue Shield of the Late Agnes Abraham of Mansfield/ Anchorage for Cook Inlet Native Alaska. An example of the new ID cards here will give you an idea of what they look Ketchumstock. Terri values her family, her Association in the CETA and the Higher like and will have you information on it. Thanks, and I look forward to helping tradition, her culture, her education and Education programs. Gloria is happy to be TCC’s administration and its employees for your benefits needs. helping her people. working for TCC in the Human Resources Terri started her career at TCC as a Department and looks forward to the Summer Youth Employee working in challenge and learning new things every several departments. Later after high day. Information Systems Acting Director school she worked on-the-job training for Please refer any benefits questions to James (Jim) Williams works in the Employment and Training. This is where Gloria Riley at extension 3259, recruitment she has worked since 2002 to the time of TCC Information Systems department as issues to Roxanne at 3263, Terri at 3155. the Acting Information Systems Director her transfer. Terri has always had an interest Michelle’s new extension is 3409. in Human Resources. She is majoring in and Enterprise Resource Planning Business Management with an emphasis in Administrator. Jim was raised in San Antonio, Texas and joined the Air Force in 1987 where he served 20+ years as an operational weather forecaster. Jim is a New Controller for veteran of Operations Desert Storm, Enduring Freedom, and Iraqi Freedom. During Jim’s last assignment at Fort Accounting Wainwright, he deployed with the 172nd Stryker Brigade to Mosul, Iraq and earned Nanci Jones joins TCC’s Finance a Bronze Star for his duty performance Department as the Controller. Nanci is during combat operations. a 35 year resident of Fairbanks, originally from Pittsburgh, While on active duty, Jim graduated Pennsylvania. She has held many jobs with honors from Park University and during her residency, the most notable earned a Bachelors of Science degree in being Director of the Permanent Fund Computer Science. Jim retired from the Air Dividend Division under the Knowles Force this past summer and began his administration. She was elected to the second career as an IT professional with Borough Assembly in the early 90’s and TCC. In his short time at TCC, Jim has identified and taken steps to implement several served two years before going to work Oracle business projects. One project on his growing to-do list is help the Human in Juneau. Resources department streamline several of their critical human capital management and recruiting functions and implement that project sometime in January 2008 (stay She is married and has two adult tuned!). children and nine grandchildren, including a set of twin girls. She enjoys Jim is married to the former Sheila Sites (of Fairbanks) and has two children: Sara, talking with people and being an active 12, and Sean, 5. Jim’s plate is pretty full, even in his spare time. He enjoys just about any part of the community. She says the kind of outdoor recreation or adventure, especially fishing and shrimping with his family people at TCC have been very receptive in Prince William Sound. and she appreciates the warmth she’s Jim also coaches for the Fairbanks Youth Soccer Association and spends about three been shown. She can be reached toll- hours per week as an adult literacy tutor for the Alaska Literacy Council. If you’re free at 800-478-6682 or locally at interested in ways to improve or automate TCC business processes or just want to swap (907) 452-8251 ext. 3113. You may also email [email protected]. fishing and hunting stories, feel free to give Jim a call toll-free at 800-478-6682 or locally at (907) 452-8251 ext. 3139 or e-mail [email protected]. PAGE 4 • THE COUNCIL • NOVEMBER 2007 Tanana Chiefs Conference

What is an Internal Auditor? Morris Thompson Cultural & Visitors Center Update An Internal Auditor is basically an By Tanya Beatus, Researcher & Cultural Program Planner, Morris Thompson Center internal consultant. The position is independent, reporting to the Would you like to donate or loan something to CEO, advising management regarding display at the Morris Thompson Center that is how to better achieve their objectives. The representative of your tribe? auditor has a broad scope, involving For example, one of our tribal members has confirming the reliability of financial reporting, deterring and investigating traditional tools from the 1800’s that belonged to fraud, verifying policies, procedures and his grandfather; he wants to display them so compliance with laws and regulations, everyone can appreciate them as much as his family safeguarding assets and offering creative does. He encouraged us to allow the rest of our solutions to streamline processes and communities the same opportunity to tell their increase revenue. story and put an item from their tribe on display. If Julie Salvitti joined TCC in you have any questions, please contact me toll-free September as our Internal Auditor. She is at 800-482-6822 or locally at (907) 452-8251 ext. originally from Huntington Beach, CA. 3239 or email [email protected]. Her family tree stems from the Choctaw Call for Arts and Crafts: Deadline is December and Cherokee tribes. She has lived in 31st! many locations around the world, including a couple of foreign countries. We just completed the first round of Upon receiving a Bachelor’s degree submissions for the Morris Thompson Cultural in Chemistry, in 1994, Julie joined and Visitors Center exhibit. We are now sending the U.S. Army as a Medical Service Corps officer. She has served in locations including out flyers for the second round. The deadline is Fort Sam Houston, TX, Fort Rucker, AL and Fort Stewart, GA. During her tenure December 31st and will be reviewed by a committee she oversaw marketing, contracting and operations. Following her service in the Army, Partners get an October tour of and then approved by the TCC Executive Board. If Julie returned to school to study Accounting. After completing her undergraduate studies construction, shown is a stairwell you are in Fairbanks please stop by TCC’s 5th Floor she decided to continue her education, finishing with an MBA concentrating in facing the Chena River. and pick up a form to submit your art. If you have Accounting. any questions, please contact Tanya Beatus toll-free at 800-478-6682 or locally at (907) While on active duty Julie met and married Michael Salvitti. Michael is a blackhawk 452-8251 ext. 3239 or email [email protected]. pilot, currently commanding one of the aviation units at Fort Wainwright. They have two sons, Gabriel, 6 and Dominic, 4. Julie enjoys jogging, hunting and spending time Hiring Update: Construction Project Reaches 29% Native Hire in August with her family. Until moving to Alaska she considered herself a bow-hunter. Now she For construction of the Morris Thompson Cultural and Visitors Center, our contract says with the size of the wild game in Alaska, she’s switching to gun hunting. She is with GHEMM Company sets two Native-hire goals: 25% of the total workforce and anxious to get out on her first hunt. 10% of the total construction cost to qualified Alaska Native subcontractors. In August, If you have any suggestions or would like to report a suspicion of fraud please feel we reached 29% Native hire with 68% at Ghemm Company, 40% with Fullford Electric, to give Julie a call toll-free at 800-478-6682 or locally at (907) 452-8251 ext. 3078. Her 29% with Becker Trucking and Interior Concrete, 27% with Denali Mechanical, 25% door is always open. She will be making her way around TCC to learn the ins and outs of with Interior Alaska Roofing, 14% with Universal Welding, and 8% with Exclusive paving. the organization. When she comes to your department, welcome her. She’s here to help. Ghemm has reported that they may have problems reaching the 25% goal in the next phase due to lack of qualified Alaska Native workers to draw from in the specific Tanana Chiefs Conference fields they need. The next phase includes ductwork, sprinklers, communication/controls, and ceramic tile and floor work. Purchasing Department TCC and the Fairbanks Chamber of Commerce are sponsoring a job fair during By Carolyn Barker, Lead Purchasing Agent, Accounting the AFN Convention this month. Alaska Works Partnership will be recruiting at the job fair. This will be a good opportunity for anyone interested in getting trained in a high- The Purchasing Department consists of the following employees: Lisa Metzger, paying job in a specific trade, including those union groups who have few if any Alaska Purchasing Supervisor, Carolyn Barker, Lead Purchasing Agent, and Antoinette Wiehl, Native journeymen. Purchasing Agent. Looking for Antlers! Lisa Metzger is married and has one son, Jay, 22. She enjoys fishing, camping, We’re looking for more than 500 moose, caribou or reindeer antlers to be used in cooking and traveling. Lisa and her family have lived in Fairbanks for 25 years and she has been employed by Tanana Chiefs Conference (TCC) since October of 2004. Lisa is an antler arch on the Center’s grounds. We are purchasing the antlers for $2 per pound. the Purchasing and Accounts Payable Supervisor. If you have some, either from your home or from fall hunting and berry picking trips, please call (907) 459-3880 or email [email protected] or drop them Carolyn Barker is from Tanana, and raised in Fairbanks. Her mother is Anna (Grant) th Barker and her father is the late Gerald Barker of Texas. She has one daughter Megan, off at TCC on the 5 floor. 18, and a senior at Lathrop High School. She enjoys fishing, traveling the state and Call for Cultural Programs! spending time with friends. She has been employed by TCC for 12 years. Carolyn is the The Morris Thompson Cultural and Visitors Center is looking for existing cultural Lead Purchasing Agent. programs to take place in the new facility. We expect the Center to open in fall 2008. We Antoinette (Toni) Wiehl is youngest daughter of Henry and Betty Wiehl of Rampart. are looking for Cultural Programs related to the preservation of culture and values of Toni has spent the last seven years in Anchorage, and is happy to finally be home. She the Alaska Native people. Programs that work especially with our youth and Elders are has two boys, Ethan, 9, and Jaden, 4. Toni is currently attending the University of Alaska being sought. With the Denakkanaaga Elders association housed in the new building, Fairbanks pursuing her Accounting degree. She is very excited to have recently joined the TCC as Purchasing Agent. there is a unique opportunity for existing programs to take advantage of the knowledge of our Elders as well as the beautiful space we have to offer. There will be a place for arts Purchasing is located on the east wing of the sixth floor in the Chief Peter John and crafts, a woodworking workshop, a classroom with videoconferencing capability, Building. We are a division of the Finance Department and work very closely with Accounts Payables and the Accountants. and a 100-seat theater. The main function of the Purchasing Department is to purchase goods; services and equipment under State and Federal procurement guidelines and to monitor New Environmental Technician compliance with TCC purchasing policies. We ensure that all purchase requests have the necessary signatures and documentation attached before issuing a purchase order. My name is Maryann Juneby and I’m originally from Beaver, Alaska, on the mighty Purchasing applies to the acquisition of, but not limited to, the following: Yukon River and in the Yukon Flats. My parents • Services rendered by a person or persons not employed by TCC. This includes are Arlene Pitka from Beaver/Fairbanks and individuals, companies or corporations. Services would be considered Ben Juneby from Eagle. I just started in August contracts, subcontracts, maintenance, leases and rental agreements. as the Environmental Technician in the Office • Equipment (purchased or leased) which has a significant useful life, which of Environmental Health department. may be used substantially without changing its physical conditions. Equipment My job responsibilities include working is usually thought of as having a significant unit price of quality. Equipment with villages to address household hazardous may be: furniture, office equipment, copy machines, electronic, computers, and solid waste hazards, enhancing tribal etc. capacity to address local environmental • Supplies & Materials which meet one or more of the following criteria: concerns—especially regarding solid waste “consumables”which are used on a daily basis (office supplies, groceries, landfills, to educate tribal leaders, village janitorial, etc.), and “miscellaneous” like building materials. residents and school children on environmental concerns and hazards and the • Other Expenses requiring a purchase order may be: registrations, shipping, solutions to those problems. lodging, certificates, tuition, subscriptions, advertisement, etc. . Once the goods have been ordered by the requestor, the purchasing department receives the I went to college in Albuquerque, New goods. We ensure that all goods have arrived by matching the packing slip to Mexico at the Southwestern Indian Polytechnic the purchase request. We then deliver the goods to the requester. Institute (SIPI) for four semesters for Liberal Arts and I plan on finishing my degree at UAF. Once the invoices arrive we match the invoice to the packing slip and purchase I worked at the school in Beaver for three order and process for payment. We deal with many different vendors in not only in months as the Teacher’s Aide before I worked as the IGAP/Environmental Coordinator Fairbanks but the entire state and the Lower 48. in Beaver for eight months prior to this job. I like snow machining, four wheeling, boat An employee is not allowed to charge goods or services to TCC without a purchase rides, road trips, Indian dancing, bowling, playing pool, hanging out with my nieces order. If you have any questions please call toll-free 800-478-6822 or locally at (907) Jaelynn and Elisa and my nephew Tyler, I love to hang out with friends and family. I also 452-8251 for Carolyn Barker, ext. 3258, or Toni Wiehl, ext. 3252. like reading, writing and beading. NOVEMBER 2007 • THE COUNCIL • PAGE 5 Client Development

Get serious and get ready for winter now! New Eligibility Specialist By Don Shircel, Director, Client Development Nichole Jimmie began a full-time position with Tanana Chiefs Conference after tenure as It’s that time of year again. It’s time to office (starting November 1, 2007). a job trainee through Employment & Training make sure that your family is ready for We will prioritize applications for which ended in March. winter! This is serious! Everyone has to be energy assistance from households with Her new job in Client Development is the prepared for winter just as our ancestors elders, disabled people, and single parents. role of an Eligibility Specialist for the were. Emergency assistance will be available Athabascan Self-Sufficiency Program (ASAP). Last year the funding TCC received on a case by case basis once funding is Her responsibilities include application under the Low Income Home Energy received by TCC (December). processing for low-income families while also Assistance program was insufficient to providing administrative support to the All other applicants can expect their serve the 1,336 households that applied for department. assistance. Because of increases in the cost fuel vendor’s to receive this year’s benefit checks starting sometime in late December, Nichole graduated from Minto High of fuel oil and wood, only 970 households so be sure that you budget your household School in 2001. The year before graduation, received assistance to help cover some of income to cover your fuel costs until then. Nichole went to the Upward Bound summer their home heating costs. Fortunately, the school program, and to Australia to play CITCO program, which provided 100 Also remember that we can only assist basketball for two weeks.She spent one gallons of fuel oil to many households you if you provide us with a complete summer as an intern at Interior Regional helped, but here is no guarantee of that application along with verification of the Housing Authority (IRHA) though TCC’s program being offered this year. Everyone income for all the members of your Summer Youth Employment program, which needs to make sure they’re ready for winter household. Incomplete applications will led to a permanent position with IRHA. While because TCC will not receive funding for greatly delay the process of getting with IRHA, she received certification at this winter’s energy assistance program assistance to you. Falmouth for clerical work and is also certified from the Crisis Prevention Institute. until December. Because all energy We are encouraging all households to Her parents are Loretta Jimmie and Richard Lee, her grandparents are Andrew and assistance program funds from this past do what they can as soon as they can to get Barbara Jimmie of Minto. Nichole’s children include son, Lethearen, 9, and daughter year have been expended, there are no ready for winter. The Energy Assistance Skylin, 6. In addition to sewing sun-catchers, earrings, and other items, Nichole is a funds available this fall to help out (even program will not cover all of your home talented singer. She has performed at one wedding this summer, three other weddings in emergency cases) until December. TCC heating costs this winter. We all need to in the past, and at her high school graduation. She especially likes to travel back to has adjusted the benefit levels in the energy plan ahead now. The plain truth is that you Minto frequently to visit family and enjoy local events. assistance program to make sure that all can’t depend on Energy Assistance to keep households get some assistance no matter you warm all winter. Try to set aside a part what the cost of fuel or at what level our of your Permanent Fund Dividend, Village program is funded. The good news is that or Regional Native Corporation dividends October Job Fair a huge success! at least all eligible applicant households or other savings to help get you by this Wow! We had 460 people attend the AFN Job Fair yesterday. The breakdown is will get some assistance this winter. The winter. With the rising cost of gas, oil and as follows: 108 youth attended, 135 attendees from villages, Anchorage, Seattle, bad news is that unless fuel costs go down home heating fuel, you will need to set and other areas outside Fairbanks, 325 attendees from Fairbanks and North Pole. I or our program funding level is aside more of your household’s income to received a lot of positive feedback from attendees and exhibitors/vendors. I have to substantially increased, all households will meet your home heating needs this winter. be receiving assistance at a level which is Don’t depend on the Energy Assistance conclude our event was a huge success. Thanks to all who worked planning the lower than previous years. program to meet all of your home heating event and at the event. Our success if a wonderful example of teamwork at its best. For information call toll-free 800-478-6682 or locally at (907) 452-8251 ext. Applications for this winter’s Energy needs this winter. The one thing we can Assistance program will be available on depend on is that it will get cold this winter ~From ASAP and Employment &Training Dept’s November 1st. There will be new so let’s make sure we’re ready. If you have applications forms for you to use. Everyone any questions about this year’s Energy who applied for energy assistance last year Assistance program contact Susan will receive this year’s Energy Assistance Marshall at toll-free at 800-478-6822 or application form in the mail. You can also 452-8251 ext. 3457. Bringing wellness to the Interior pick up an application for energy assistance at their Tribal office or at the TCC Central By Deborah Valdez (formerly McCarter), Work Assistance Director, Client Development

Getting ready for winter The TCC Athabascan Self Sufficiency Assistance Partnership and the South Central Foundation’s Family Wellness Warriors Initiative are using our collective By Kimberly Carlo, Housing Technician, Tribal Development energy, time and outreach resources to assure that our Native Families in Alaska’s The TCC Weatherization program is keeping busy in Fort Yukon. The 3 man crew Interior have the opportunity participate in a special project called, “Beauty for plans on weatherizing 22 homes by next spring 2008. Simon Francis, an 83-year-old Ashes” which is designed to bring healing to Alaska’s people and an understanding elder, received weatherization services through our program. Some of his weatherization that the beginning to wellness begins one person, family or participant at a time. work included insulating the floor, installing new windows and doors, along with a new The Beauty for Ashes (BFA) Workshop will provide you with an opportunity woodstove, which he greatly appreciates. Simon said he puts two blocks of wood in his to work and share with trained leaders and facilitators whose focus is to give you stove at night and he wakes up in the morning to a nice warm house, a big change from the skills you need for understanding your personal healing and an opportunity to his previous woodstove. Simon was able to help with some of the weatherization work, understand wellness for yourself and your family. Alaska Native Leaders are also he enjoys keeping busy. He is happy with the work that was completed through the going to share with you their stories and a special music event to celebrate the weatherization program. He said everything is good, and he feels good doing lots of success of the meeting by Broken Walls. work, he even sleeps good at night. Simon was so busy this summer that he didn’t have BFA, thoroughly grounded in traditional values and using Alaska Native time to make any snow shoes. He said he has plenty of birch ready; he plans on making strengths to break the silence, is designed to break the cycle of abuse in Alaska in lots of snow shoes over the winter, in his warm house. Thanks to our crew in Fort Yukon this generation. BFA teaches from a culturally centered, faith-based curriculum to for a fabulous job! address the core issues of abuse. Through intensive training and education, the The weather is cooling off, now is the time to start getting ready for the winter program is designed to train individuals on how to respond to those whose lives months. Make sure you have your heating system cleaned and serviced. Check the area have been impacted by abuse, neglect and/or domestic violence. BFA provides an around the doors and windows and seal up any cracks. Check any air vents make sure environment that allows individuals to safely enter conflict in a way that invites they are clear and clean, indoor air quality is very important in the winter, sometimes healthier interpersonal relationships in the workplace and community. there is not enough air exchanged in the Attending the upcoming conference will provide a time to experience Alaska winter months due to the cold conditions. Simon Francis Native history, our people, their stories, challenges, tears, pain and their lives, as Check your insulation in attics, insulation well as their successes, victories, healing and growth, in a way no other experience can move for various reasons such as can. maintenance or someone using their attics as storage and insulation gets moved and If you are at a place in your life where you are looking for positive life changes not returned to critical areas. for yourself then please take time to contact us to see what we may do to help so that you may attend the workshop. Be prepared for up coming fuel expenses. The Energy Assistance This is a chance for you to be empowered to gain skills that lead to your personal applications usually come out in early growth and develop an understanding for healthy relationships within your family November and are processed at the and community. beginning of the year in January. If you The “Beauty for Ashes” Workshop will be held at the Princess Hotel from think that you will need fuel before then, November 5-10 and you should plan on attending for five days. please save and plan wisely with your If you are interested in finding out more about the program, please call our Permanent Dividend. For more office (800) 478-6822 and ask for either Janelle Chapin, with the TCC Stop Violence information, contact Kimberly Carlo, Program at extension 3132 or Susan Marshall, Case Manager for the TCC ASAP Housing Technician, toll-free at 800-478- Program, at extension 3457 in the TCC Client Development Department who are 6682 or locally at (907) 452-8251 ext. 3419. here to answer any questions you may have. Email [email protected]. PAGE 6 • THE COUNCIL • NOVEMBER 2007 Employment & Training

Federal highway grant for Director of Employment & Training Alaska Native tribes Tanana Chiefs Conference would like to announce the new Director of Employment By Jerry Woods, TERO Officer, Employment & Training and Training, Howard Darling. Howard grew up in Nulato, where he graduated from Andrew K. Demoski School. His parents are Martha Demoski of Nulato and Donald Darling of Fairbanks. After high school Howard spent his summers doing general labor and internships for Alaska Petroleum Contractors inKuparuk. From there he attended Syracuse University in New York and earned his bachelors degree in Information Management. Some highlights from Syracuse included spending two semesters abroad in Madrid, Spain and playing pick-up basketball with Philadelphia Eagles star Donovan McNabb. As for TCC, Howard isn’t a new comer; He was first hired as an intern working with the TCC Transportation Program to help decentralize road inventory information for Meeting participants were pleased with the grant signing on September 6, 2007. Tribes. From there he has spent the last four Not pictured: Wes Alexander, Jerry Woods, and Robin Frank. years working with the IS department as the Web Applications Specialist. Many people may recognize him from his many hours In May 2007, Alaska became the first state to sign a statewide Business Opportunity spent at the TCC Annual Convention assisting to keep a smooth operation of the Workforce Development (BOWD) Grant Agreement awarded by the U. S. Department program. As Director of Employment & Training Howard supervises a team of five and the Tribal Civilian Community Corps (T triple C) based in Nenana. Employment of Transportation and Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) to a partnership of programs include Youth Development, Tribal Employment Rights, TCCC and two national Indian organizations. The Council for Tribal Employment Rights (CTER), Employment and Training. One of his goals for the program is to create better and the Citizen Potawatomi Community Business Development Corporation were communication between Tribes and the main office, providing easier access to designated the two year grant which will be allocated by the U. S. Department of the employment resources available from TCC and other state and federal sources. Interior’s (DOI) Office of Indian Energy and Economic Development (OIEED) in Washington, D. C. The grant was intended to give Alaska Native/American Indian tribal Some of Howard’s interests include playing the guitar, mountain biking, snow machining, traveling and taking his boat out on the Chena River. Howard also enjoys members the opportunity for more training to work on highway/road construction attending major sporting events; he just saw the NY Mets vs the Nationals at Shea Stadium projects throughout Indian Country. The grant also provides funding for Alaska Native/ in Queens, NYC. He also enjoys seeing major rock groups in concert. Howard can be Indian-owned construction companies who are Disadvantaged Business Enterprises contacted by dialing (907) 452-8251 ext. 3154 or [email protected]. (DBEs) to become more involved in the awarding of FHWA road construction projects through out the country. As a result of the recently signed Alaska BOWD Cooperative Grant Agreement the Returning Executive Secretary Tanana Chiefs Conference (TCC) Employment and Training Program hosted a meeting On Thursday, September 6, 2007. The intent for local Interior Native-owned construction I am very pleased to be back at TCC after companies interested in getting involved in State Department of Transportation and being away for the last 4 and half years. I have Public Facilities (DOTPF) road construction projects. TCC also discussed ways to get enjoyed the previous year working at Interior more on-the-job training (OJT) for Alaska Native tribal members so they can be qualified Regional Housing Authority; IRHA does an to work on those statewide road construction projects. incredible amount of work throughout the region and has a great staff. Prior to that, I The meeting held in the TCC 6th floor Board Room and was facilitated by Jon was able to attend UAF for three years. I have Dunham of DOTPF; Lynn Forcia of IEED Washington DC Office; and Bill Pool of Citizen worked in TCC Administration for the 15 Potawatomi Community Business Development Center. years from 1988 to 2003 and was able to work The meeting also involved the U. S. Department of Transportation (USDOT), Federal for the Minto Tribal Council for the 10 years Highway Administration (FHWA) and the Division of Civil Rights Office. The Alaska prior to that. I feel very privileged to have BOWD Cooperative Grant Agreement was modified with the addition of the Minto worked my entire career for the Native Tribe and three Interior Native-owned contracting companies including Tolovana community. I enjoy working for Tribal Construction, CLI Construction and TCC’s Construction Initiative. members, councils, the TCC Full Board, and Executive Board. The TCC staff continues In attendance were Chief Darrell Frank of the Minto Tribe, Mary Sheehan of the to be a driving force for our member Tribes. Alaska Procurement Technical Assistance Program (PTAC), Grete Hubbard of the Alaska Tribal Transportation Assistance Center, Rocky Riley and Samantha Paul of Tolovana As Executive Secretary, I oversee much of President Isaac’s office activities, including Construction and Rachel and Gordon Carlson represented CLI Construction and TCC his travel, general staff meetings and staff Howard Darling, Director of Employment and Training, Wesley Alexander, Housing activities, convention-related organizing, Field Coordinator, Robin Frank, Youth Employment Services Coordinator, and Jerry L. Norma Anderson and other duties. I also arrange Executive Woods, TERO Officer. For additional information please contact Employment and Board meetings, travel, and schedules as Training toll-free at 800-478-6822 or locally at (907) 452-8251. needed. My family is originally from Beaver, Alaska, I was born and raised in Fairbanks. I th am blessed with a grandson, Tyler, and three beautiful granddaughters: Trenity, 5, 28 Roustabout Adrianna, 4, and Madison, two months. I enjoy sewing with skins, fur and beadwork. recruitment training My thanks go to Linda Charlie, my children’s grandmother, for sharing her skills.

TCC Employment and Training Department in partnership with Doyon Drilling is TCC Executive Board Search & Rescue please to announce the 28th Roustabout Recruitment Training. The deadline has been extended to December 31, 2007 with the scheduled training dates as January 14 through policy-making, research plans February 1, 2008 in Anchorage. The Roustabout training has provided many Doyon Shareholders employment upon completion of the training and TCC’s Employment and Training Department maintains the goal to assist tribal members to be successful in this training opportunity in order to become self reliant. Applicants must pass an initial screening process and those who have passed will be interviewed by the Roustabout selection committee. From there the selection committee makes its recommendations as of whom will be sent to the Roustabout Training. Upon completion of the training, many trainees are offered jobs on one of Doyon’s many drill rigs. There are limited openings and we encourage you to apply early and provide all the required documents with the application. The required documentation includes: • Proof of being a Doyon Shareholder; The Tanana Chiefs Executive Board’s Budget and Audit Committee met in July to • Copy of CIB, Tribal Enrollment Card or TCC Enrollment Card; discuss facilities, refinancing options regarding the main building, and the summary of • Copy of Birth Certificate, Social Security Card or ID Card/Driver’s License; the Harding Lake recovery process. At this meeting, plans were made to research the • Application and updated resume; and, possibility of a region-wide search and rescue operation. TCC would research grants on • Two professional letters of reference from former employers. behalf of our regioin. An Intertribal Search & Rescue organization is a concept brought The 28th Roustabout Recruitment application and flier can be found on the TCC forth by Danny Adams (Tetlin); however, policy is being reviewed as to assure appropriate website: www.tananachiefs.org under the ‘What’s New at TCC’ heading. You can also financial responsibility, liability, and infrastructure. This will be an ongoing concept to request an application from Employment and Training by calling toll-free at 800-478- research and investigate for our region’s future. We will provide updates and a complete 6822 x 3418. overview once a final determination is made. NOVEMBER 2007 • THE COUNCIL • PAGE 7 Tribal Government

Butler’s appeal update Tribal Governance

As reported in the last issue of The Council, the appeal relating to the Trans- welcomes... Alaska Pipeline right-of-way across the Butler allotment was scheduled to be heard th New Self-Governance by the 9 Circuit Court at its October session in Seattle. The date was October 17, New Program Assistant set at the federal courthouse in Seattle. Shirley attended the hearing with Natural & Coordinator Cultural Resources Director Paul Mayo, along with her attorneys John Athens and Bill Satterberg. The question was whether the pipeline owners must have the BIA Regional Director renew the right-of-way across her allotment in accordance with federal regulations guiding the management of restricted allotments, or if the pipeline companies can automatically renew the right-of-way without BIA involvement. The court advises that a ruling is normally issued within several months after the appeal is heard. The outcome? The 9th Circuit Court of appeals recommends it be settled through federal mediation. For more information, contact the Realty Program toll-free at 800-478-6682 or locally at (907) 452-8251 ext. 3261.

Village Agriculture Fairs

By Heidi Rader, Agriculture & Horticulture Agent, Tribal Development

Did you have a fair in your village this year? Galena and Ft. Yukon did on August 25. Since I was only able to go to the Ag-Fair in Galena, I’m going to share about that one, but I heard that Ft. Yukon’s Fair went well too. Nina (Nine) Opferman started My name is Isabelle H. (Salmon) There was an excellent turn out in Galena with almost 150 entries ranging from working in the Employment Carroll, I am the granddaughter of the gigantic cabbages to beautiful parkas and quilts. Entries ranged from intricately done Department at TCC as a Welfare to Work late Traditional Chief Reverend Dr. beadwork, stunning photographs, delicious canned salmon strips, and scrumptious baked Administrative Assistant in 1997. David Salmon and the late Sarah goods. Aside from the fair entries, there were also some really fun events. There was a Salmon, and the daughter of William Born in Kotzebue, an Air Force brat, three-mile walk, a three-mile run, a canoe race, an egg toss for kids, and door prizes. I and Minnie Salmon, all of Chalkyitsik. I presented a salmon canning workshop (with salmon donated by Archie Wholecheese), Nine has lived outside for many years, am married to Harry Carroll Jr. and we tested pressure canners (which should be done every year!), and won the canoe race and moved home in 1988 to stay. She and have three children: Amanda (husband with Patty. husband Denny live in North Pole; they Jeffrey) Wright, Devan, and Jordan. I have two daughters, a step son, three have one granddaughter, Arlyssa Wright. Having a fair in your village can be a lot of work, but can be very rewarding. It’s also grandsons and two granddaughters-all a good way to promote gardening, crafts, health, and community. If you are interested My three brothers include live outside or abroad. Her youngest Representative Woodie Salmon, Willie in having a fair for the first time, reviving an Agriculture Fair that was done in the past, daughter is stationed in Kuwait/Iraq as or just want more ideas for a fair that is held every year in your village, let me know! I’d (wife Vicki), and Darryl (wife a Medic until 2009. Nine spends as much Charlene). I have one sister, Patricia be happy to help with information, ideas, and if I can, with judging and workshops at time with her mom as possible, this Salmon, one nephew the late Adam B. the actual fair. I’d also love to see photos or hear about Ag-Fairs that have happened this summer she took her on her first cruise Francis, seven nieces Tonya, Dana, year. out of Valdez. Usually they take Destiny, Shelby, Julia, Allison, Shani, and Just remember, the key to a successful fair in your village is to get the community numerous road trips together. one great-nephew, Sikoya’ Francis- involved in the planning and preparation phase. Thanks to all of the wonderful volunteers Nine has been a welcoming Fields. My favorite pastime is reading who made the fairs possible. Please contact Heidi Rader, Agriculture and Horticulture presence at TCC, saying “I have enjoyed and doing other interesting things. Agent, toll-free at 800-478-6822 or locally at (907) 452-8251 ext. 3477 or email working in the Employment I was just recently hired as the [email protected] for more information on Ag-fairs. Department and look forward to a new Program Assistant in the Self career with the Self-Governance Governance Department, so far it has Department.” been very interesting, and I look forward to working with the staff.

Three-month old Seline Moses talks to the camera, she is the daughter of Michelle Sam and Russell Moses.

Alatna in August

Ron Sam and Ariella Edwards, daughter of Clinton and Sylvia Bergman, spend an afternoon at the Alatna Tribal Council offices hosting TCC staff who Entries in the agricultural fair include several vegetable varieties, including this spent an afternoon discussing cabbage (top) which takes up almost the entire surface of the table. local concerns. PAGE 8 • THE COUNCIL • NOVEMBER 2007 Health Services

Dental Clinic Chief Andrew Isaac Health Center and welcomes new staff Fairbanks Memorial Hospital By Barbara O’Donnell, Registered Dental Hygienist, TCC Dental Clinic to be smoke-free soon By Karlene Borja & Melanie Brenner, Smoke

Fairbanks Memorial Hospital, Denali Center and Tanana Chiefs Conference are committed to building a continuum of care in Interior Alaska. We promote health, wellness, prevention and the treatment of diseases within the community as well as attempt to provide a safe, clean and healthy environment for all who work here or use our services. The entire FMH/DC campus, including Chief Andrew Isaac Health Center and Bertha Moses Patient Hostel, will be tobacco-free beginning Thursday, November 15, 2007. This means staff, patients, visitors and contractors alike will not be permitted to use tobacco products inside or out, on any of the Fairbanks Memorial/Denali Center and CAIHC properties. In order to continue our mission of “Promotes and Enhances Spiritual, Physical, Mental and Emotional Wellness through Education, Prevention,” we are asking each of you who use tobacco to carefully consider your next steps as we journey towards a tobacco free campus. Your health and the health of those we serve is the top priority at Chief TCC Dental is happy to announce that dental work you can arrange either with Andrew Isaac Health Center and and Bertha Moses Patient Hostel. Lung cancer is the leading cause of death among our Alaska Native People, choosing to stop using tobacco Drs. Kimberly Lovejoy, Kevin Lee, and your Health Aide or by calling TCC Dental has the single largest impact on death and disease compared with any other risk reduction Bryce Taylor have joined the dental staff as in Fairbanks to get that completed in effort. of mid-August. Dr. Lovejoy previously Fairbanks. Due to our previous shortage In Alaska, all healthcare facilities are being challenged by the State of Alaska worked here from 2003 to 2006. She of dentists there is a waitlist for routine care Department of Health & Social Services to implement 100% tobacco free healthcare recently completed a year of advanced in Fairbanks. We will be working to policies by November 2007. As a result of our decision to become a tobacco free campus, training with the Oral Surgery Program at eliminate the waitlist as best as possible. FMH/DC and CAIHC will begin serving as a role model for the community by promoting the University of Kentucky and is looking The same basic ideas apply for patients good health and influencing public attitudes about the use of tobacco products. forward to working with TCC again. living in Fairbanks. Those who have not We are committed to this date. If you choose to stop using tobacco you do not have Dr Lee joins our staff from Gallup had a dental exam within two years will to do this alone, resources available if you choose to quit your tobacco use. We realize Indian Medical Center, where he finished need to get one prior to receiving routine that if you currently use, the decision to stop is entirely your own. Beating nicotine is a a two-year Advanced General Practice dental care. For those with dental very difficult thing to do. For tobacco users, there is a very strong physical and behavioral Residency. emergencies walk-in patients are accepted hold. Your body becomes so dependent on nicotine and the activities associated with smoking/chewing; it’s often extremely difficult to quit. Dr. Bryce Taylor is originally from 7:45 am and 1:45 pm weekdays. Utah and completed Dental School in Emergencies are prioritized based on the Tobacco Cessation Service at CAIHC Detroit, Michigan. Dr. Abe Tanner will be patient’s emergent needs with children, • This includes confidential behavioral counseling interventions. starting at TCC Dental in early September, village residents, and elders getting priority. • Free over the counter Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT) will be available, such as the nicotine patch, nicotine gum in conjunction with behavioral counseling which will bring the provider staff up to Children’s Dental Clinic (CDC) is interventions. near its 2005 level. also up and running. CDC is for all For questions, please contact Karlene Borja ext. 3779. The Alaska Tobacco Quit Many thanks to Drs. George Bird, children ages birth to 14-years-old. The CDC clinic allows us to provide your child Line is 1-888-842-QUIT(7848) and is open to anyone. Support is just a phone call away. Preciosa Seif, and Rebecca Cave for the With a call to Alaska’s Tobacco Quit Line, you’ll receive: with an exam, x-rays, cleaning, sealants, work they provided with little respite 1. Nurse-counselors are available 24/7 and oral hygiene instruction all at one during our provider shortage of the last 2. Optional follow-up calls year. appointment. Any additional needs can 3. Informational kits then be rescheduled. What does this mean for you? We 4. Free nicotine replacement patches to qualified participants should be able to fully cover our village TCC Dental has a large geographical 5. Complete confidentiality field trips. The field trip schedule is and population base. We are proud of the Any questions you may have regarding this policy should be directed to Melanie featured in this issue. As always, contact the services that we can provide given the Brenner at ext. 3166 or by email at [email protected]. village Health Aides before the Dental conditions and budget we work with. Team arrives. You will be put on a list of Keeping appointments is important. See next page for diagram of smoke-free campus patients that want to see the dentist. A Appointments are made for you or your comprehensive dental exam is important. child to receive care. If you cannot get to During an exam you’ll get x-rays, oral your appointment for any reason, please cancer screening and hard and soft tissue cancel it, so another patient can use the Chief Andrew Isaac evaluations. Your treatment plan is tailored time. For more information, contact us for you based on those findings. toll-free at 800-478-6682 or locally at (907) 452-8251 ext. 3200. Health Center Within a few weeks the hygiene team will follow. You can get a cleaning if you Recent Improvements have had your dental exam within the past two years. If you need a lot of complex to Health Care Services Chief Andrew Isaac Health Center staff made strong progress in hiring physicians and support staff to increase the number of appointments and improve the overall quality of services at Chief Andrew Isaac Health Center. This is a long- term plan, a philosophy rather, that will prove great results in 2008 and beyond. Dental Field Some details include the introduction of three new physicians, Dr. Christopher Todd, Dr. Stephen Gerrish and Dr. Jana McAninch. Dr. McAninch will oversee the Trip Schedule Diabetes Program. A Security Guard, Jonas Poncho, has also been located at CAIHC. He makes regular rounds to ensure the safety of staff and patients at CAIHC. Pharmacy has signed-on 2 full-time pharmacists to start work upon graduation from pharmacy school in July 2008. We also have a tentative agreement with a third November 5-9: Nulato, Anaktuvuk Pass pharmacist who may start in March of 2008. Pending administrative approval, we th may hire a fourth full-time pharmacist who may start as early as November. November 12-16: Tanacross, Nulato (through 15 ) Currently we are pursuing temporary pharmacy providers to help until we are able November 26-30: Galena, Nulato, Tanacross to get our full-time staff on board. Jim Kohler, longtime CAIHC Director, is resigning in June 2008 and will participate in the hiring process for his replacement. As far as recruiting for physicians, pharmacists and other providers, Health Services is improving their processes by taking a professional and contemporary approach in seeking candidates. They have hired an advertiser who will seek professionals in a difficult market Flu vaccine available nationwide. Finally, proper billing and payment issues have been taken care of and Our supply of Flu vaccinations has arrived for this year. Patients are under scrutiny by Health Services to ensure we meet the needs of a growing can receive their flu shot Monday-Friday from 1-4 pm as a walk- population in the midst of fewer federal dollars. in. The patient will need to wait at the clinic for 15 minutes after the shot for adverse There will be changes in our registration to improve our overall ability to reaction precautions. Depending on supply, we may extend through November. If capture 3rd party revenue that will assist us in enhancing services at the clinic and you have any questions, please call Benjamin Baker, Director of Nursing, toll-free at our remote sites. We will keep you informed of future efforts and successes at 800-478-6682 or locally at (907) 451-6682 ext. 3647. Chief Andrew Isaac Health Center. NOVEMBER 2007 • THE COUNCIL • PAGE 9 Health Services PAGE 10 • THE COUNCIL • NOVEMBER 2007 News for Our People Featuring Native Veterans... Experiencing Upward Paul John Jr. Bound Paul John Jr., 34, is an entrepreneur, My name is David Lokanin. I hard-working family man, and a U.S. was born in Fairbanks and have Army veteran who has served from 1991- always lived in Anchorage. I am the 95 in South Carolina, Georgia, Kansas, son of Mary Lou Lankanin and have and one year in Korea. His parents are one brother Lee. My grandparents (step-father) Don Honea Jr. and mother are Richard and Glenda Frost. I am Annie of Ruby, Alaska. Paul is married to the great-grandson of the late Alberta (Tritt) of Venetie she was raised Alphonse and Mary Demientieff of in Fairbanks, her mother is from the Nenana, and Thomas and Susan Standing Rock Reservation, South Frost of Kodiak. I attend West High Dakota and her dad is originally from School in Anchorage and will be a Fort Yukon. Together they have daughter junior this school year. Kaycee, 8, and are raising Paul’s younger brother, Nathan, 13. They all live in North I recently completed the Upward Pole where Nathan is a standout football Bound Math and Science six-week player at North Pole Middle School. college prepatory program held on “I was always interested in the the campus of the University of Lokanin recommends summer program to all military—it was always something I Alaska Fairbanks. This program is for high schoolers. wanted to do; my uncle James Honea was high school students interested in in the Navy a long time ago and continues excellent in math and science and pursuing secondary degrees in these fields. Alberta, Paul, and daughter Kaycee John, 8, to be a positive influence.” While Paul was The program was an educational and rewarding experience for me. I learned to in August 2007. in Fairbanks in 1990, during the North handle a lot of responsibility and discipline for my homework, attending classes and all American weekend he contacted the local about dorm living. I also benefited by being able to see a part of Alaska I had never seen recruitment office. It wasn’t long before he was stationed initially in Ft. Gordon, GA, for on our eight-day camping trip. Most of all I enjoyed meeting and getting to know all wire system installer training. He completed boot camp in 1991 from Ft. Jackson South the other students who were from all over Alaska and the Northwest states. Carolina. He spent two years at Ft. Reilly in Manhattan, Kansas and Ft. Huachuca in Sierra Vista, Arizona where he met many lifelong friends. Paul finished his service with one year in Korea and Arizona. Paul credits his success in life to his mom’s support, saying of Annie, a stay at home Dear Editor, There were so many visitors and so mom, “She was always there for me.” Ruby was also a positive experience for Paul, who On July 20th, I was mauled by a dog, many phone calls and prayers, that I know said that the school counselor, Maurice McGinty, was a tremendous influence on his it happen so fast and in a minute, there in my heart that you care so much, that self-confidence. “He was a strong role model for students at that time. There were a lot were a lot of people there to help me. God will bless you and your family for your caring hears. of great teachers, who have since retired and left Ruby.” As for advice to young Native I stayed at Tok Clinic 10 – 2:30 am and men who are considering their futures, Paul is strong in his conviction, “There’s that flown to Fairbanks Memorial Hospital to On September 8-9th was a beautiful misconception of taking a year off—don’t take a year off! There are so many opportunities be treated for my wounds. I was in surgery event sponsored by my family and caring for Natives nowadays.” relatives. I know that God will also bless True to his advice, Paul’s endeavors seem for 5 hours and stayed in the Hospital until July 23rd. To this day I thank God that I you and your families throughout the years to begin at the end of his Army service. With for the love that give. Thanks to my friends a supporting wife he began the only Alaska am healing very quickly, but I still remember that day, by God’s help I will get family in Northway, Tetlin, Tok, franchise of Native Threads in 2002 with Chistochina, Dot Lake, Fairbanks, Danzhit Hanlaii Native Corporation (Circle, over that terrible incident, that where Anchorage, Copper Center, etc. Again, God Alaska). “Our main goal was to bring to prayer and family are really important. I bless each and every one of you. You all surface the pride we felt inside of us through have many, many people to thank from the did so much just being there for me. Thank culture and style. It was actually ‘culture and bottom of my heart: you again from the bottom of my heart. style with a purpose,’ that was our goal.” A Richard Thomas, Dr. Wahl and Staff, national and popular clothing line for Native FMH 3rd Floor Staff, Mom and Dad, Mike, Americans, Native Threads was owned by Nancy Thomas, Kirby and Kirchelle Sincerely, Paul’s close personal friend. Unfortunately, Thomas, Nellie Prohbert,Robert Sr. and Debbie Thomas the corporate office of Native Threads went Marylou Paul, Kayla Jonathan, Monica Tanacross, Alaska bankrupt last year. Alberta said it was a lot of Isaac , Dr. Wade and Staff, Ray and Dian fun to learn the ropes, to embrace the Titus, Betty Denny and Family, Marshiann business, but they were ready to move on. One Titus and Family, Lori Sam, Devon Paul, of the highlights was the concept Paul had to Herbie Demit, Adeline Gallen, Kurt Cleary, feature prior TCC President Harold “Buddy” Jaylene John and Family, Ray Sanford Jr., Brown in the Native Threads catalog. They Marion and Julie Isaac, Alfred Jonathan were very thankful for the pride others felt in and Family, and James Joe. Thank-you for the merchandise and in supporting their hard Paul next to an electronic panel. your kind hears. May God Richly bless each work. and every one of you. “Although it was very exhausting, we met so many people, learned a lot which was very rewarding. You have to be married to it for it to work. I would work up North for two weeks, come back attend a Native event ...we were never home, we didn’t have time to do anything else.” At its closing, the family traveled as they wanted and visited his many friends he acquired during his Military experience. Dear Editor, Aside from small business ownership, Paul was President of his father’s (Paul John I am sending this in regards of the heath and future of our people. There is a stomach Sr)Native corporation in Circle, Alaska for three years and has had a great work history bacteria that has been plaguing our people for generations. 60% of us will get this in in Fairbanks as well. Beginning with the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, one or more times of our lives. better known as IBEW, he spent seven years as an Electrical Journeyman. “After I got The cause is mainly unsanitary conditions or someone who has it. It is called H- into IBEW, we got four more Ruby guys into the union. Now there’s there are a total of pylori. There is a treatment for it: it’s a cocktail of antibiotics called Preva Pac. If not five in the union, and hopefully more to come. Two treated it will eat through the stomach lining, or better known as ulcers. Then turn into of which lived with us while they were in enrolled cancer, I have had this for one year. You’re mainly given a low dose of antibiotics, that in the electrical apprenticeship program. almost never works, along with an acid reducer, like Omeprazole, Zantac, or Prilosec. To name a few jobs he’s worked on locally; These do not solve the problem. Westmark Hotel, the new Courthouse downtown, The longer you wait, the worse it gets. I had to ask for the Preva Pac. Come to find Pike’s Landing Hotel, Princess Hotel and Gene’s out, local drug stores carry this Preva Pac. You might have to take more than one round Chrysler. Nowadays, Paul currently works on high of this, depending on how long you have waited. voltage (13.8 thousand volts) equipment in Prudhoe Bay, two weeks on, two weeks off for I lost my wife to breast cancer three years ago. It was a four year battle that I will not Alyeska. He enjoys his job and says he has a great soon forget. I could not save her. But we can save hundreds of our people. It’s a simple employer. He is able to do more enjoyable things breath test. There is a treatment. It’s called the with his family, namely football and traveling. Of Preva Pac. Will you help me educate our people? his time in the Army,” I made lifelong friends, especially in the ‘Four Corners,’ the Navajo Sincerely, Reservation, a place they visit every three or four years. My experience in the military helped me to Gerald Wholecheese be self-motivated.” Galena, Alaska

James Honea in 1962. To feature a Native veteran, contact the editor. NOVEMBER 2007 • THE COUNCIL • PAGE 11 News for Our People

Reclaiming our cultures & Broadway for Alaska Natives: cultural values Denakkanaaga and Diigii Naii receives By Ida Hildebrand, Nulato Author & Writer First Alaskans Institute Grant for $23,000 Native people have become accustomed to violence, abuse and domestic violence because of many factors. In my opinion, this is mostly because of blatant forms of racism, By Matt Stevens and ethnocentric practices imposed on Native communities by Western education and Christianity upon first contact. When Western educators and Christians first came to Denakkanaaga in partnership with Alaska, they repeatedly told, beat, and physically abused the people; telling the people Digii Naii received a $23,000 grant from that the Native traditions and ways were evil, of the devil, superstitious, and wrong. First Alaskans Institute to train youth Western educators and churches demanded complete allegiance to their way of participants in all aspects of stage thinking and doing things. The United States government paid to “civilize” Natives, and production, set creation and performance teach them to speak only English. This cultural destruction began by educators and in plays based on Sydney Huntington’s churches beating children; forbidding parents to teach the Native ways, and Native book Shadows of the Koyukuk. The grant languages; and condemning parents and children who persisted in the Native ways. from First Alaskans in conjunction with in- Over time this became a form of Stockholm Syndrome in which hostages identify kind contributions from around the with the behaviors of their captors. Native communities began to lose their sense of self, community will be enough for the project culture, and spiritual beliefs. Today communities are no longer totally aware of their to operate for a nine-month period. The own cultures, spiritual beliefs, and have not truly accepted Christianity, or Western beliefs. first show will be held in April 2008 at the Natives have been living in a limbo of negativity for so long that most can no longer Chena River Convention Center. The plays also have a beautiful 100 seat theater in the recognize what is right, or what their rights are. are mainly for educational purposes and Morris Thompson Cultural and Visitors Younger parents and youth have misconceived ideas about what Native spirituality attendees will not be charged for Center for their performances. Following is. Youth no longer see the whole picture of who they are; what Native spirituality is; and admission. the theater production, the plays will then how to apply it; or defend against oppressors and abusers. Instead, many fear the medicine Set Building & Alaska History be made available on DVD with the help powers of Native spiritual people, and communities don’t know what they can do to of Authentic Alaskan Productions headed We expect to work with at least 30 defend themselves or their families. by Wesley Dalton. youth from around the Interior as well as Youth are lost in a limbo of ignorance due to Western educators and churches that Mark Frank, Creator have for centuries condemned Native elders, teachers, and medicine people, and have two parents and two Elders. The goal failed to help the Native people to help themselves. Instead Western education and behind the program is to educate the The idea for “Broadway for Alaska churches crippled the people and brought them to acquiescence as Native communities community about Native history and Natives” came from Diigii Naii “All Our demand that someone do something about the domestic violence, drugs, alcohol and culture. Youth participants will be trained Children” which is a group of young Alaska suicides. in carpentry, acting, set production, Native men who meet and discuss ways to making costumes, interviewing and other improve the community for our youth. The church, government, State and tribe are all held responsible, and expected to continue to act on behalf of parents who have been stripped of power, self-responsibility, such tasks associated with putting together Mark Frank, Minto, is the one who came and dignity, for over two centuries. People instead fear that if they report abuse, they a Broadway production. Skills obtained up with the concept. will loose economic support, someone will retaliate, and now the victims believe they can be used to build the students’ resumes Possibilities to help them gain admission into college, deserve what is happening to them. Denakkanaaga and TCC have find summer employment and win In addition, Native people observe the State court system and legal remedies. Natives partnered to develop cultural programs for scholarships. Youth will listen to Elders’ act like judge and jury in assessing what would come of any complaint that they may the new Morris Thompson Cultural and stories prior to acting in the plays to file. Observing the failures of the system: the re-victimization of victims of abuse, Visitors Center. Denakkanaaga will occupy familiarize themselves with the script and domestic violence and sexual assault; the ridicule following loosing a case; and the failed the new building and will be the source of tone of the play(s). We also hope this attempts to seek justice through a legal system that only leaves them shamed, ridiculed, knowledge for all the cultural project will further inspire our Elders to and mocked by their own abusers; Native are acquiescent. programming held in the facility. Programs tell their stories because so much of our There is a real change in Native values, from ones that protected children, offered such as the Broadway for Alaska Natives history is not written down and is help, a safe place for children and their mothers; to now ignore them, refuse to get will only be a small part of the cultural subsequently lost. And, finally, not only will involved, and dismiss or overlook their plight. programs to take place in the new facility. the participants benefit, but hundreds of With Denakkanaaga housed in the new In the maze of cultural change, problems are exasperated by drugs, alcohol, and the community members will enjoy watching trauma of extensive suicides. People are now even afraid of reporting abusers in fear building, there is a unique opportunity for the production. that the abuser will commit suicide. This is generational abuse. existing programs to take advantage of the Community Involvement There are also numerous cases of Native women raped, murdered, and their bodies knowledge of our Elders as well as have the mutilated in and around Fairbanks with no arrests. More recently in Anchorage there In the future we hope to sustain the opportunity to share our culture with are several cases where Native women were raped and murdered. Yet, no one has been program through more community others through tourism and community brought to justice for these crimes. support and donations. Currently, we’ve education. Crimes involving Native women don’t seem to warrant the publicity or care given if received support from all of our Native For those that are interested in the case involves a Native person as the suspect, or arrestee. It seems the media only organizations here in town which includes learning more about “Broadway for Alaska covers and promotes Native images that reinforce negative stereotypes of Natives as Doyon, Limited, Doyon Foundation, Natives” please contact Matt Stevens at drunks, incompetents; and the successes of Native people are otherwise overlooked. Fairbanks Native Association, Interior Denakkanaaga at (907) 452-8251 ext. 5010 You will probably never read a newspaper article that says, a “White Man” was Regional Housing Authority, Effie Kokrine or e-mail [email protected]. Matt suspected, arrested, arraigned, or driving while intoxicated. Yet, you will read newspaper Charter School, and Tanana Chiefs works for Denakkanaaga on special articles that, a “Native” man or woman committed some crime, or was drunk, or hit by Conference. We also hope to gain further projects and as the administrative a vehicle while intoxicated. No one other than members of the Native community seems support from our local schools and other accounting coordinator. He also works to notice these public inequities. Even local radio talk shows seem to maintain a proclivity such agencies. extensively with Diigii Naii which is an to promote negative stereotypes of Natives. Depending on the success of this pilot effort led by Alaska Native men in Yet, look at the reports in the media for the last decade, priests, ministers, educators, project, we want to feature other stories Fairbanks to not only serve as healthy role and police are arrested for murder, sexual and physical abuse of Native youth, children about Alaska in the future. Denakkanaaga models but to also provide safe and fun and women. These abusers, many acting in the name of God, succeeded in destroying and Diigii Naii will not only have more alternatives for our youth. our cultures and Native values. They have made the Native people into their image and support from the community but they will likeness. People have forgotten that it is the responsibility of all to help their children, nieces, nephews and young parents to properly care for the children of the community. Now it is time to begin to reawaken Native communities to their own healing, responsibility, and values. It is time to reclaim the power of our own cultures in reawakening our cultural values, spirituality and responsibility for self, children, family and women. It is time to stop blaming the victim. It is time to challenge the media. It is time for Native women to reclaim their roles, powers and responsibilities for their children and families, mothers, women and community. It is time to act by refusing to sit in silence, or to acquiesce to any government, State, church, or tribe that continues to take this power and responsibility from them. It is time for all Native people to speak up on behalf of themselves, their children, their community and their Native spirituality and Native values – that have for centuries focused on the well being of children, the protection of family, and the value of spiritually knowing and living in oneness with “All Our Relations” in prayer and community. PAGE 12 • THE COUNCIL • NOVEMBER 2007 News for Our People

2nd Annual Miss Nika’ghun Ten Hunee Daal’oye Pageant a success (Trail Markers) By Sharon Schrock, Pageant Coordinator An Upward Bound TRIO Program The pageant was held on the 4th of July in Nulato during the annual little league tournament. Crowned that evening as the 2007 Miss Nika’ghun is Danielle Esmailka of Kaltag. The pageant was a huge success in part to the volunteers and many donors, who believed in this event. The pageant was originally scheduled for Memorial Day and with a picnic for the communities’ enjoyment. Thanks to Edith Nicholas, Josie Semaken, Brother Bob, and By Linda Evans, TRIO Program Manager, Interior Aleutians Campus Howard Esmailka for their help. On the day before, it was requested by the elders for a date change to allow more entrants, at that time Sky Malemute was present. Out of “We still use the old way of marking the meets the IAC goal to “create a tradition respect for our elders, it was changed. Thank you to the late Priscilla Sipary, Martha trail with sticks. The first man out on the of education for future generations.” I share Demoski, Howard Esmailka, Mildred George, Olga George, Gloria Patsy, Kat Sam, Clara trail after the new snow puts out willow sticks office space with Julie Luke, Alaska Native Peters and Rosa Lee Peter for their involvement in the first planning meeting in Nulato so when the trail drifts over, the next one Education (ANE) Tutor at Lathrop High and for donations. will see them and he won’t get lost.” School (LHS), Room 256. I am happy to The event was held on the baseball field in front of many spectators. Danielle gave Our Elder, Neal Charlie, of Minto, tells introduce Amelia Ruerup, as the Academic a beautiful speech on healthy living and the importance of culture. She followed with us that Alaska Native students attending Coordinator for our program. Her office Native song and dance, and presented her regalia: a mitsahoolan (dress) and a winter Interior Aleutians Campus (IAC) are like is located at the Effie Kokrine Charter parka that her family lovingly made. Although only Danielle was there, Sky Malemute trail markers, leading the way to success for School (EKCS). was there in heart, since she was not able to make it due to funds. Speakers included other students. Because Alaska Native Amelia Ruerup is Tlingit/Irish Paulina Stickman and Martha Demoski, who delivered the keynote address. Martha families and communities are so close-knit, originally from Hoonah and Juneau and stressed the importance of community and how Kaltag, Nulato, Koyukuk and Galena are all one. Door prizes were donated by Dean Bernice Joseph, UAF College of Rural & successful students that emerge from has lived in Fairbanks for the past 13 years. Community Development. educational programs can be expected to She graduated from UAF with a bachelor’s become the mentors, role models and degree in Justice and minor in English and As Miss Nika’ghun, Danielle represents Nulato and the Yukon area as a role model teachers of the students who come after interned with the U.S. Attorney’s Office for youth. Although there was only one entrant, she was exellent and knows the them–marking the trail that leads to and the Department of Juvenile Justice. importance of family and community. Next year, there will be another pageant, so ladies, greater academic achievement. In keep After college, Amelia worked in a group prepare and get involved now. with this view, IAC’s 2006 Strategic Plan home, a law office and, most recently, in Prior to the pageant, I felt like not going forth with it due to lack of involvement, Goals state that IAC will “create a tradition an alternative high school for behaviorally but changed my mind and knew in order for great things to happen you must move of education for future generations.” challenged students. forward and remain positive. Through this, Danielle received one year free tuition, as well as bringing our communities closer. Let’s continue to strive towards cultural pride Greetings! I am Linda M. Evans, the Ten Hunee Daal’oye is an Upward in our youth and encourage them to be involved…let’s make that commitment for the Program Manager for the newly federally- Bound TRIO program and will work with years ahead. funded Upward Bound Program two target schools, Lathrop High School Many thanks to the following sponsors: UAF College of Rural & Community sponsored by UAF-Interior Aleutians (LHS)and Effie Kokrine Charter School Development, our major donor, Doyon Da’gaa Award, Warbelow’s Air Ventures, Frontier Campus. This Upward Bound program is (EKCS), providing free services for eligible Flying Service, Wright’s Air Service, H&H Enterprise, Sweetsir’s Store, Bernard separate from the Upward Bound Program student participants. Hildebrand, Gana Yoo Limited, Laurie Ralston, Gloria Patsy, Victor’s Store, Vernon at the UAF in that our program will run We will be working very closely with Hildebrand, Charlene Ostbloom, Edith Nicholas, Josie Semaken, Annie Hildebrand and during the academic school year as well as each school and their staff to develop this Mike Demoski. A big thank you to the following who donated gifts: Sharon Demoski, a six-week summer session and we will Upward Bound program to assist student Josephine Malemute, Daisy A Day, Borealis Floral, Fred Meyer, and Hair Body & Sol. work with Lathrop High School and Effie during the academic school year and Sharon Schrock is the daughter of Fred Ann Schrock and the granddaughter of Ellen Kokrine Charter School students. provide a six-week summer program that and Aloysius Peters, who raised her as their daughter. She is blessed with three children, Jay, I am Koyukon Athabascan from will continue to build essential skills for Peter and Tony and her “other half” Vern. Tanana, Alaska, but Rampart is where my success. 2007 Miss Nika’ghun husband Paul and I raised our children. I For more information and an have been in education since 1975 with the application packet, please feel free to Participating in the Miss Nika’ghun pageant Yukon Flats School District, starting out contact: Linda M. Evans, Program was very enlightening. Just being on the ball field as a special education classroom aide, a Manager, Lathrop High School at (907) in the blistering heat with family, friends, and regional school board member, an 456-7794 Ext. 256 or Amelia Ruerup, community was one experience that any young elementary multi-grade classroom teacher, Academic Coordinator, Effie Kokrine woman can find herself peace, enjoyment, and a principal-teacher, and a superintendent. Charter School at 907) 474-0958 Ext. 154. sheer gratitude for all that she has accomplished. I look forward to this new challenge Although no one else participated in the of developing Ten Hunee Daal’oye into a pageant, my family kept encouraging me and successful student-oriented program that letting me know that this was still a competition. I practiced my presentation and had my nieces and nephews do a song with me. I felt humbled Tozitna, Limited as I did my walk around the ballpark waving to Job Announcement: Temporary 14 C Salary: $22,000.00 the crowd. This title and participation in the Land Specialist pageant is any young woman’s dream and gives Location: Tozitna, Limited Office at them great appreciation for who they are, where Position Description: 14(C) Land City Building they come from, and proud to be from a culture Specialist rich in tradition, family, and community. I have Duties: From a written or oral outline, initiates correspondence for Tozitna land gained knowledge, strength, and encouragement committee. Review all 14(c) files and make sure everything is complete. Field Exams - that I will acknowledge for the rest of my life. I gather all available information and facts necessary to make decisions (check land status; also received a title that would take me to the field exams; take photographs; keep records of all data.) Review and meet with current World Eskimo Indian Olympics (WEIO). Land Committee and make recommendations based on all available information and After the pageant in Nulato, I was off to data. Start work on 14(c)3 and do negotiations with the City of Tanana, plot maps, Anchorage for WEIO. We received round trip organize land files and other duties as assigned. Review and approval of 14(c) The 2007 Miss Nika’ghun Danielle tickets from Frontier Flying Service for my mom implementation by the Tozitna Board of Directors. Esmailka of Kaltag. and I. The pageant lasted a week with the first Supervision: Position supervised by Office Manager. three days participating in public relations (PR) work with sponsors. We stayed at the University housing. There were six other contestants that we met on Monday morning Knowledge Required By The Position: High level of computer skills to maintain all before we went to the KBNA radio station. The radio interview was an awesome experience records of the corporation to date, including, but not limited to: 14(c) records, easements, as this was my first ever interview and participation in radio broadcasting. We went to Cal conveyances, allotments, maps, land selections, right of ways. Experience in Alaska land Worthington’s for more PR work and donned our full regalia. For the next two days we issues. Must have outstanding organizational skills, be innovative and able to work visited the Boys and Girls clubs, youth recovery home, more radio stations, the town square independently. Minimum qualifications needed. for the kick off for the WEIO events, and met the mayor. We participated in the grand entry Supervisory Controls: The incumbent is expected to work independently following at the Sullivan Arena. This was nerve wrecking to be walking in waving to a crowd that you the directives of the Office Manager and to be able to prioritize and complete tasks and don’t seem to see because you are in a trance just remembering to smile and trying not to responsibilities with a minimum of direct supervision. trip. We were in the center of the arena waving to the crowd and afterward we had to Degree of Responsibility: Works with a considerable degree of independence relying mingle. We visited the Highland Correctional center, Youth Center, and Heritage Center. At on written guidelines and procedures. Consults with the Office Manager for specific all these places, we were asked questions and participated in panel discussions. direction when questions arise that are not covered by established guidelines. Minimal The pageant was a wonderful experience for me and I got to meet other contestants supervision required. from around the state. We spent a lot of time together and through this, friendships were established. Being the youngest entrant, this has instilled in me the tools that would take me Contacts: Contacts are with Tozitna, Limited shareholders, Tozitna, Limited Board of places in life such as public speaking, exposure to different cultures, competition, and being Directors, various state and local agencies, other regional and village corporations for aware of myself and who I am. Throughout both pageants, I have been put in the public the purpose of reception, referral and assistance. This position requires a considerable view and had to parade in front of audiences that I did not know personally, had to be amount of contact with the general public. courteous and polite to everyone, and continue to act as an Ambassador as Miss Nika’ghun. If interested contact Tozitna, Limited for an application at (907)366-7255 or Tozitna, I encourage other young ladies to participate in more youth activities in our area. Limited, PO Box 77129, Tanana, Alaska 99777.