Dena’ Nena’ Henash - - Our Land Speaks Vol. 37, No. 7 A Report to the Member Tribes of the Tanana Chiefs Conference August 2013 Denakkanaaga Conference helps bridge the gap between elders & youth Story by Rachel Saylor, TCC Communications Coordinator This year Denakkanaaga’s Annual Elders and Youth Confer- ence was held in Ruby with the theme ‘Where we are Bridging Our Past with Our Future’. The theme represents the purpose of the annual conference, which brings together elders and youth from throughout the TCC Region. This year three new members were elected on to the Dena- kkanaaga Board of Directors including Rev. Anna Frank, Fred Alexie and Angela Demientieff. Tristan Madros of Kaltag was elected as the Denakkanaaga Youth Representative for the sec- ond year in a row. Madros was first elected last year in Nikolai. “I always enjoy going to Dena- kkanaaga and getting to know the elders and youth throughout the region,” said TCC President Jerry Isaac, “I would like to thank the community of Ruby for their warmth and hospitality while host- ing this year’s conference.” Next year the conference plans to be held in Minto. More Photos on Page 4...

Background checks required in 2014 TCC Presidential Elections On March 19, 2009, the TCC Full Board of directors adopted Resolu- Often times an applicant will miss a portion of the application and the tion 2009-30 “Barrier Crimes” directing TCC to come into compliance application will have to be altered before sent off so TCC encourages with federal and state background check requirements for its employ- potential candidates to turn in their background check application to ees. At the January 29, 2013 TCC Executive Board meeting, TCC HR before February 10. employee background checks became policy. The Executive Board TCC HR will keep all potential names confidential and no TCC officer approved the Standard Operating Procedures on employee back- or manager outside of TCC HR will have access to those background ground checks on October 15, 2012. check applications without permission from the applicant or until the The TCC President is a full time employee of the Tanana Chiefs candidate has declared candidacy in writing to the TCC Executive Conference, requiring all candidates for the office of TCC President Secretary. to successfully pass a background check in accordance to the Indian Once the potential candidates have passed the background checks Child Protection and Family Violence Prevention Act (ICPA) and the they must submit their name in writing to the TCC Executive Secretary Alaska barrier crimes statutes and regulations. by February 28th to be eligible to run for President. The TCC legal All potential candidates are encouraged to submit a completed department will ensure each candidate is eligible to become Presi- background check application to TCC HR starting September 17, dent in accordance with TCC bylaws and state and federal law. The 2013 as background checks are only good for 6 months. February 10 TCC Executive Secretary will announce to the tribes the list of eligible is the last day to submit a complete background check application in candidates. order for the state and other offices to return completed background Important Dates and Information available on Page 3... checks to TCC by the February 28 deadline to declare as a candidate.

In This TCC’s New Tribal Alaska Youth TCC’s Summer Boating Development Director Academy Youth Interns Safety Issue Page 3 Page 7 Page 10 Page 11 Page 1 Tanana Chiefs Conference Mission Statement Tanana Chiefs Conference provides a unified voice in advancing sovereign tribal governments through the promotion of physical and mental wellness, education, socioeconomic development, and culture of the Interior Alaska Native people.

Vision Healthy, Strong, Unified Tribes Members of the TCC Executive Board met with TCC Leadership in July. ABOVE: Nancy James, Pat McCarty, and CFO Brian Ridley meet for a Budget and Audit Committee. RIGHT: CAO Kathy Mayo, Leo Lolnitz, Julie Roberts-Hyslop, and Gloria Finney meet for the Planning and Organization Committee.

TCC Executive Board Members

Jerry Isaac/ Tanacross TCC President

Julie Roberts-Hyslop/Tanana PUBLIC HEARING Vice President The Tanana Chiefs Conference plans to Be a part of the process… Let us know provide services under the Low Income Home how we’re doing, and share with us your Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) for ideas about what can be done to make our Pat McCarty/Ruby FY 2014 is available for review online at our energy assistance and weatherization program Secretary/Treasurer website www.tananachiefs.org and at your services more responsive to your home heating local tribal office. Persons wishing to comment and home energy efficiency needs. Donald Honea Sr./Ruby on the proposed plan are asked to use the toll 1st Traditional Chief free conference number to participate in the public hearing which will take place: To Participate in the Hearing: Trimble Gilbert/Arctic Village August 16, 2013 from 2:00 – 4:00 PM Call 459-3975 (In Fairbanks) 2nd Traditional Chief At the Chief Peter John Tribal Building 122 1st Ave., Suite 600 OR 1-800-770-8251 ext. 3975 (long distance) Donald Adams/Tetlin Fairbanks, AK 99701 Upper Tanana Persons unable to attend or participate in At the prompt, Dail 0199509# the public hearing can submit their comments Nick Alexia Sr./Nikolai in writing no later than August 19, 2013 at the A voice will come on asking you to state your Upper Kuskokwim above address, attn: name and location. Press # when finished. Don Shircel, Client Development Director, or by email to [email protected] You are now connected to the teleconference Nancy James/Fort Yukon Yukon Flats Questions? Call us at 1.800.770.8251 extension 3457 Eugene Paul/Holy Cross Lower Yukon Announcement: Pollock “PJ” Simon, Jr./Allakaket Several older applications to the Native Village of Rampart were recently approved. Some Yukon Tanana notifications to approved applicants came back as undeliverable. Any applicants who would like to check on their membership status may contact: Leo Lolnitz/Koyukuk Debbie Mitchell Yukon Koyukuk [email protected] 907-452-8251 ext. 3274 Gerald Patsy/Nulato Toll-Free (in AK): 1-800-478-6822 ext. 3274 Youth Advisor Toll-Free (outside AK): 1-800-770-8251 ext. 3274

Page 2 The Council Newsletter Tanana Chiefs Conference TCC Bylaws and the Presidential Election TCC bylaws, TCC election rules, and federal and state law govern the 2014 TCC Presidential Election Important Dates Advertisement of Vacant Seats: The TCC bylaws state Federal Law: Indian Child Protection and Family for 2013 TCC “There will be an open period of thirty (30) days during Violence Prevention Act (ICPA) 25 USC § 3201 et seq. which candidacy for any TCC office or advisory board Presidential must be declared with the termination of that open “Each Indian tribe or tribal organization that Elections period occurring ten (10) days before the scheduled receives funds under the Indian Self-Determination date of the next TCC Annual Meeting of the Full Board. and Education Assistance Act” is required under the To prevent the 30 day open period from ending on a ICPA “to conduct an investigation of the character of September 17th: weekend, the open period may end as early as fourteen each individual who is employed…by such tribe or Potential candidates for days before the Annual Meeting. The slate of declared tribal organization in a position that involves regular the 2014 Presidential candidates shall be distributed to the member villages contact” with Indian children. election may submit not less than five (5) days before the annual meeting.” background check Article 4 / Section 12. Two sets of regulations apply to the implementation applications to TCC HR. of the background checks by tribal entities. BIA Responsibilities: The TCC bylaws define the TCC regulations, CFR § 63.1 et seq. and the IHS regulations, January 30th: President’s position as “The President shall be the principal 42 CFR § 136.401 et seq. executive officer of the corporation and shall, in general, The open period in which supervise and control all of the business and affairs of The IHS regulations define “regular contact with or a candidate may declare the corporation, authorized by the Executive Board of control over Indian child” to mean: responsibility for candidacy begins. Directors, any deed, mortgages, bonds, contracts, or other an Indian child(ren) within the scope of the individual’s instruments which the Executive Board of Directors has duties and responsibilities or contact with an Indian February 10th: authorized to be executed, except in cases where the child(ren) on a recurring and foreseeable basis. The last day TCC is able to signing and execution thereof shall be expressly delegated guarantee a background by the Executive Board of Directors or by these bylaws or by ICPA states: “No person can be employed in such check will be completed statute to some other officer or agent of the corporation. a position if the person has been found guilty of, in time for the required The President shall perform all duties incident to the office entered a plea of no contest or guilty to, a felony, or 5 day announcement of of president and such other duties as may be prescribed two or more misdemeanors, under Federal, State, or by the Executive Board of Directors from time to time. The tribal law involving crimes of violence; sexual assault, candidates before the President is not authorized to make any new purchases or molestation, exploitation, contact or prostitution; meeting. new leases of any interest in real estate, or to construct crimes against person; or offences committed against any new buildings, in Fairbanks without the express prior children”. February 28th: authorization of the majority of the Board of Directors”. The open period in Article 5 / Section 5. The TCC President will have regular and foreseeable which a candidate may contact with Indian children and therefore must pass declare candidacy ends. “The President shall serve as the Chairman of the Board of an ICPA background check. Candidates must declare Directors. The Chairman of the Board shall preside at all their candidacy in writing. meetings of the member villages, the Board of Directors, State Law: Alaska Barrier Crimes and the Executive Board of Directors, and perform all other Statutes and Regulations TCC must provide a list duties provided in these bylaws.” Article 4 / Section 10. of eligible candidates to The Alaska barrier crimes statutes and regulations member tribes. Criteria: The TCC bylaws also state “Officers must be apply to all entities which are licensed, certified or members of a member village of the corporation and want to remain eligible to receive payment from the March 13th: eligible to be selected as a Director of a member village.” Department of Health and Social Services. Under TCC Presidential election Article 5 / Section 1. the implementing state regulations an administrator held at the TCC Full or officer of the entity is required to pass the state Board of Directors Annual “Must be residents of the State of Alaska and Alaska background check. AS 47.05.310. 7 AAC 10.900-7 Meeting Native members of member villages of the corporation.” AAC 10.990. TCC receives payment from the State Article 4 / Section 1. of Alaska Department of Health and Social Services and therefore the TCC President must pass a state Term: “The President, Vice-President, and Secretary/ background check. Treasurer shall serve three-year terms”. “No person elected President for two full successive terms shall be again eligible to hold that office until one full term has intervened”. Article 5 / Section 2.

Request for Stories about past New Tribal Development and AFN Conventions Planning Director The Alaska Federation of Natives annual Convention will be hosted in Fairbanks on October 24th – 26th. In preparing for the event we are Tiffany Sweetir recently joined Tanana requesting stories about your past visits to the convention. Chiefs Conference as the new Tribal Development and Planning Director. Tiffany Story ideas we are looking for include: was raised in Galena and is the daughter of Stories about your families experiences at AFN that support this Marie Simmons of Galena and the late James year’s theme, “Traditional Alaska Native Family Values” Walldow of California. Her grandparents are A profile about a person who is going to be attending this year’s Sidney and Angela Huntington, the late Jennie AFN, why it is important for them to attend and what they are Huntington, and the late Bert and Beatrice expecting this year. Fleming. Tiffany is married to Teekona “TK” Stories about multi-generations (Great-grandparents to children!) Sweetsir, who is also from Galena. Together whose family have all taken part in AFN conventions. they have two children and she has two Positive experiences from years AFN convention was hosted in stepsons. Fairbanks. She moved to Fairbanks in 1991 to attend Stories about the Arts & Crafts fair. UAF where she received her B.B.A in Management and Organization. She has worked with the tribes in the TCC region for eight years. We are also looking for older historic photos of AFN Conventions from Tiffany previously worked for Interior Regional Housing Authority as years past. the Chief Operating Officer. She enjoys working with the Tribes and Communities and is excited to be a part of the Tribal Development Stories may be published in The Council or in the Fairbanks Daily Department and begin working with the tribes. News-Miner. If you would like to submit a story or have any questions, please email [email protected]

The Council Newsletter Tanana Chiefs Conference Page 3 Removing the Shame of Getting Help From the TCC Community Health Outreach Program “I’d rather be thought drunk than crazy,” behaviors. How do we do this? That is a huge Balance out the risk factors, such is a quote that Dr. Spero Manson (Pembina question that there are many answers to. We as hopelessness, isolation or loss Chippewa) uses quite frequently in his can start by doing the following: of communication, by increasing presentations on reducing the stigma around Reduce negative comments about protective factors such as engaging suicide prevention and getting help for mental, mental illness, weight, substance abuse others in meaningful activity, respecting emotional and behavioral issues. It comes from struggles, gender and suicide. getting help, and beginning healthy a native veteran who was struggling with post- Not calling the Behavioral Health office conversation. traumatic stress disorder. He stated he would the place where “crazies” go. People go All of us at one time or another have needed rather be “thought drunk than crazy” meaning there for much needed help and making help. As Athabascan people, we have always he was not willing to enter into a Behavioral a comment can mean they do not get been resilient because we relied on each other Health Office, but willing to walk into a rehab that help. to keep our communities healthy and together. facility for alcohol and drugs. Start young with children, teaching them We need to continue to practice supporting We need to remove the stigma of getting healthy activities and promoting healthy each other. help and we need to promote healthy relationships.

SPICE: Just as Dangerous as Marijuana From the TCC Community Health Outreach Program What is Spice? mood, relaxation, and altered perception or to the heart, and in a few cases it was associ- Spice is a mixture of plant materials and hallucinations. In some cases, individuals have ated with a heart attack. chemical compounds that produce experiences reported experiencing effects stronger than similar to marijuana. The chemical compounds those of marijuana, including blackouts and What are the signs and symptoms that used in the mixture are responsible for the time lapses. someone is using? mind altering effects that users experience. Research done on spice has determined that According to Narconon International, spice Use of Spice, primarily by teen males, has the synthetic compounds in the drug act on the can be more difficult to identify than most risen to the second most popular drug, second same cell receptors in the brain as THC, the because of the many chemical compounds that only to marijuana. Easy access and false rep- principal drug in marijuana. Some Spice com- are used to make the drug. The drug has a fast resentation as a safe alternative to marijuana pounds bind more strongly to those receptors, acting and more intense impact on a user’s most likely contribute to the popularity of the causing more powerful and unpredicted effects, senses than marijuana. Individuals who are us- drug. such as blackouts. ing spice may experience the following: The Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) il- Spice is not only detrimental to the brain, but Panic and anxiety attacks legalized 5 of the chemical compounds used it also has health effects on the body. Since its Seizures and headaches to create spice, making spice that contains detection in the United States in 2008, Spice Paranoia those compounds Schedule 1 Drugs. Schedule has caused an increase in phone calls to the Vomiting 1 drugs are drugs that have a high chance of Poison Control Center. In 2011 alone, there Hallucinations abuse, no medical use, or lack of safety while were nearly 10,000 phone calls to Poison The drug makes individuals unpredictable using the drug. While the drug is marketed as a Control, more than double the number of calls in their reactions, causing some to become so safe alternative to marijuana, it is anything but. the previous year (2,906 calls in 2010). Callers paranoid, angry or confused that they have at- reported vomiting, agitation, rapid heart rate, tacked their loved ones. Extreme outburst and What are the effects on the Brain and Body? confusion, and hallucinations. The drug has personality changes can be first indicators that Many Spice users report effects and experi- also been found to cause an increase in blood someone is under the influence of drugs. ences similar to marijuana, including elevated pressure, tremors and seizures, reduced blood

TCC Advocates for Yukon River Flooding On June 24th, Jerry Isaac (TCC President), Victor Joseph (TCC Health Director), and Sarah Obed (Doyon Government Relations Direc- tor), travelled to Washington, D.C. to meet with federal representatives to discuss the recent flooding on the Yukon River. On June 25th, President Obama declared the situation a disaster, making funding available to those affected by the floods.

Page 4 The Council Newsletter Tanana Chiefs Conference Senator Begich Meets to Discuss Fisheries Challenges In July, Senator Begich and his staff visited with leaders from TCC and other regions of Alaska to discuss fisheries challenges and the reauthorization of the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act (MSA). The MSA is the federal law that governs fisheries management and fishing off coastal waters. During the meeting, TCC outlined several recommendations on how the act should be updated to protect subsistence fishing and increase sustainable returns for upcoming years.

Dust Reducing Elder From the TCC Community Health Outreach Program Falls at Home Dust is a problem that many of our rural air. From the TCC Community Health communities face every summer. Dust has Implement a speed limit measures such Outreach Program been around forever. Even though it is part of as speed bumps or drainages across our daily life, does not make it healthy for us. the road to get drivers to slow down Our Native Elders are central to our The Office of Environmental Protection If possible, water the roads. A single communities. They pass down information (EPA) health research reports that dust can watering to wet the roads can last generation to generation that is vital to our cause health problems. Road dust is made several hours to a couple of days. existence as Native people. The experience of very small particles that can be inhaled Make sure the roads are maintained as and wisdom they have gained throughout or breathed in. It can cause coughing and best as possible. When puddles form, their lifetime and historical knowledge of our irritation of the eyes, nose, and throat. For the water makes the heavier particles of communities is invaluable. individuals with chronic health issues, heart the dirt, such as rocks and clay sink to Each year Alaska Native Elders are injured and lung disease, it can make their health the bottom, leaving the fine particles at due to falls. These falls commonly occur problems worse. Even healthy people can the top, so when the water dries the fine inside their own homes or outside in the yard. have short term irritation when breathing dust. particles become dust. Falls cause the majority of hip fractures which In most of our rural communities, there are can result in long term impairment, nursing only dirt roads. The dust becomes airborne To protect yourself from dust, you can: home admissions and even death. Certain during dry and windy conditions, especially Wear a face mask on particularly dusty interventions can greatly reduce the risk of when the dust is disturbed by four-wheelers days falls: and other vehicles. Four-wheelers are the Close windows on cars and in the home Make the home a safe place – most common cause of road dust. They have to reduce dust coming inside Remove rugs, wires, and other trip knobby tires which tear up and disturb dirt Wipe your feet off outside the home to hazards; use non-slip mats in the roads. This increases the amount of dust that avoid bringing it indoors bathroom; Wear sturdy shoes with thin, becomes airborne. Wash foods exposed to dust, the non-slip soles indoors; avoid shoes with particles still make it into your body thick soles. Improve the lighting in your To reduce dust at a community, we can: Vacuum your home instead of using home. Use at least 60 watts for good Reducing our speed, whether on a four- a broom, dust particles tracked in can lighting. Paint doorsills a different color wheeler or driving a car, on dry days will still become airborne from the use of a to prevent tripping on them. reduce the amount of road dust in the broom Review Medications – Have your doctor or pharmacist look at all medicines you take, even any from the store. Some medicines make you sleepy FREE MILITARY SURPLUS CLOTHING or dizzy. Are you a homeless veteran? or a Veteran at-risk for homelessness? Come by Check Vision – Poor vision can Pioneer Park on August 16th to for Free Military Surplus Clothing. increase chances of a fall. Get your vision checked once a year. Friday, August 16th Check Hearing – problems with the Pioneer Park in Fairbanks inner ear, and hearing can affect 1000 - 1700 hours balance and equilibrium. Get your hearing checked once a year. Veterans ID required for Entry Exercise Regularly – Walk often to (DD214, Vet ID Card) increase your balance and coordination and it makes you stronger. Get up slowly after you sit or lie down

The Council Newsletter Tanana Chiefs Conference Page 5 Denakkanaaga Elders & Youth Conference Continued from Page1 - Photographs by Rachel Saylor

Page 6 The Council Newsletter Tanana Chiefs Conference 2013 Alaska Youth Academy Better choices, Brighter Futures This year Tanana Chiefs Conference communities throughout interior Alaska partnered with the Alaska State Troopers, attended the academy to learn hands-on Village Public Safety Officers, the U.S. Marshal lessons in a wide variety of topics including Service, and other public safety components to CPR, first aide, fire safety, crime scene hold the first Alaska Youth Academy in Interior investigation, defensive tactics, responsible Alaska. decision-making, and prevention of teen The Alaska Youth Academy is a week-long pregnancy. academy that teaches youth between the ages The Alaska Youth Academy programs of 15-18 about the skills needed to pursue encourage youth to make positive life choices careers in law enforcement and emergency that prepare them to enter the workforce in services. Public Safety and related fields that require This year nearly 50 students from background checks as adults.

Congratulations to the Graduates of the 2013 Alaska Youth Academy

Jordan Billy - Beaver Brianna Herbert - Chalkyitsik Raycheal Penn - Allakaket Ethan Cadzow - Fort Yukon Damien Jenson - Anvik Megan Roberts - Venetie Melvin Captain - Fairbanks Kjetil Jervsjo - Manley Hot Springs Thomas Roberts - Nikolai Jerry Carroll - Fort Yukon Jacen Jimerson - Tok Carolyn Sam - Galena Devon Deaton - Fairbanks Chiffon Joe - Tanacross Darrell Sam - Huslia Ross Demientieff - Holy Cross Colton Joe - Tanacross William Sam - Arctic Village Tyler Ekada - Nulato Cynthia Kruger - Anvik Salone Saunders - Allakaket Conrad Erick - Nulato Theodore Kruger - Anvik Romay Shayen - Galena Paige Farmer - Fairbanks Krystal Madros - Anatuvak Pass Elizabeth Stanley - Nulato Nathaniel Frank - Venetie Michael Maillelle - Anvik Brianna Stickman - Nulato Sloan Frank - Venetie Deanne Moses - Huslia Clayton Ticknor - Anvik Tiffany George - Galena Stephan Nathaniel - Allakaket Makayla Tritt - Venetie Daryl Gray - Allakaket Mariah Neglaska - Kaltag David Walker - Holy Cross Kaylen Gray - Allakaket Zachary Nicholi - Grayling Kayleen Ward-Peter - Venetie Brittany Henry - Chalkyitsik Corbin Oskolkoff - Nikolai Brandon Williams - Huslia Sarah Henzie - Allakaket Emily Penn - Huslia Cole Williams - Beaver

The Council Newsletter Tanana Chiefs Conference Page 7 Heavy Equipment Service & Maintenance Class On June 10-14, 2013 Minto Village Council and Gareth Baker from Minto. greased the equipment. in conjunction with Tanana Chiefs Conference, The class spent part of the day in classroom Minto Village Council would like to give Doyon Foundation and Novi Machinery held a setting followed by hands on experience. They special thanks to the following: Novi Machinery, 40 hour Heavy Equipment class on service and learned about maintaining a log that reflected Mickey Allen, Manley Tribal Council, Tanana maintenance in Minto. the condition of equipment, when it was in use Tribal Council, Tanana Chiefs Conference and There were twelve students in all, Chief Ray- last, identified any missing parts, date when Doyon Foundation. mond Woods and Will Bredeman from Manley, filters/oil were changed. Students worked Bob Winer and Clifford Edwin from Tanana, Jay in teams of two on a total of eight machines If anyone has questions about the class you David, Vincent Charlie, Kyle Titus, Craig Titus, such as Backhoe, Dozer, Grader, Case Dozer may contact Keith Charlie, Minto Tribal Trans- Noal Gutherie, and Nick Roberts, Parker Frank and Case Loader. They changed the oil and portation Planner at 798-7530.

2013 World Eskimo Indian Olympics Native Baby Contest Photos by Rachel Saylor, Communications Coordinator

Page 8 The Council Newsletter Tanana Chiefs Conference Chief Andrew Isaac Health Center Supporting Patient needs throughout Interior Alaska By Matt Rogers, Chief Andrew Isaac Health Center Clinic Director In December of 2012 Tanana Chiefs Conference assumed full clinic operations within the new state of the art facility on Cowles Street. Many changes have occurred in the past 10 months and are proving to not only handle more patients but also lead to an increase of quality throughout the services offered by TCC health services. Beyond a world-class structure, TCC is also improving on the quality of the care it performs and is well on its way to becoming a premier health care provider.

Expansion of Existing Services: New Services in the new clinic include:

3 new Women’s Health Providers which allows travel to villages Radiology Department serving over 800 patients per month throughout the TCC Region - First in the state to offer 3-dimensional digital mammography - Now serving villages throughout the interior - DEXA, Ultrasound, C-arm, and plain films 4 new primary care providers which now allows us to travel to each Lab Department processing over 3500 specimens sent in village on a quarterly basis (up from twice per year) throughout the entire TCC region - More than doubled village visits - Serves all villages throughout the interior of Alaska - Added capacity to reduce wait times for scheduled appointments Patient shuttle by > 50% - To provide free transportation on a scheduled basis for 3 complete primary care teams. Each team now has 2 physicians patients coming in from the villages and 3 Mid-Level providers New dental team Added 1 provider and expanded pediatrics to be open on Saturdays Patient Greeters - Pediatrics now making village visits Urgent Care expanded and is now open 7 days per week, 363 days per year from 8am-6pm Primary care expanded and is now open from 8am-6pm (open dur- ing the lunch hour and early evening)

With the addition of new services and providers CAIHC has positioned itself to better serve the villages and people of the Interior. Our patient visit numbers are up with an average of 350 patients walking through our doors on a daily basis. Despite the increase in volume we are also improving in our overall quality and patient satisfaction. In July of 2013 we received an all-time high of 94.7% rating in patient satisfaction and we also surpassed previous quality indicators from the decade past. Quality is also evident by achieving certification and accreditation in our Radiology department as well as a flawless inspection with our lab. CAIHC is also on track to achieve AAAHC accreditation this fall.

The Chief Andrew Isaac Health Center Hours of Operation

Urgent Care...... Monday-Sunday 8 a.m. - 6 p.m. Women’s Health & Family Medicine...... Monday-Friday 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Orthopedics...... Monday-Thursday 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Pediatrics...... Monday-Friday 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Pharmacy...... Monday-Friday 8 a.m. - 6 p.m. Dental Clinic...... Monday-Friday 7:45 a.m. - 5 p.m. Eye Clinic...... Monday-Friday 8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. Lab...... Monday-Friday 7:30 a.m. - 6 p.m. We are a tobacco-free campus!

Tanana Chiefs Conference supports healthy lifestyle choices and is dedicated to lowering tobacco use in Alaska. We are happy to announce our tobacco-free campus in Fairbanks

1717 West Cowles St. Fairbanks, AK 99701

The Council Newsletter Tanana Chiefs Conference Page 9 Youth Intern helps with construction on Ruby Clinic Alta Brown has been hired as a summer intern by RISE/ARCADIS to perform construction project management on the Altona Brown Health Clinic in Ruby, Alaska this summer. This internship was developed at the request of elder Edna Peters of Ruby and is crafted to develop skills in written communication and information management along with practical knowledge about building systems and architecture. Her responsibilities are to conduct daily construction site visits, monitor construction progress, participate in building inspections, and produce weekly and monthly written reports accompanied by photographs. She received a week of training at the RISE/ARCADIS office in Fairbanks at the beginning of her internship that included instruction in job site safety, site inspection, recordkeeping, and report preparation. The experience gained from this internship is applicable to professional careers in Architecture, Engineering, and Project Management.

First Alaskans Intern gets behind-the-scenes look at TCC Health Services Kimberly Greenway of Tanana recently had I’m getting a really well-rounded picture the opportunity to intern with Tanana Chiefs of how everything runs. If I didn’t take this Kimberly Greenway Conference’ Health Services Department internship and I just took my clinicals in Age: 21 through the First Alaskan Institute. Kimberly my classes, I wouldn’t know about how took the time to sit down with The Council everything works together. Hometown: Tanana, AK Newsletter to talk about her experience. Since I am going into the medical field, just School: UAF - Majoring in Medical How did the opportunity to intern with TCC knowing how each department works will help Assisting come about? me in the future. Family: I applied for an internship through First What was your favorite department to Alaskans Institute in the Spring. You have work with? Parents are Darrell Greenway and to be in college and you have to be Alaska Connie Sommer Native. This year there are 25 of us interning I really liked working with Nursing, because with First Alaskans. that’s in my field. I was able to get a lot of Grandparents are the late Henry hands-on experience that I couldn’t get and Maudrey Sommer First Alaskans partners with businesses otherwise. I met a lot of people that I could throughout Alaska, but we could not find an potentially be working with in the future, so Siblings are Scott Sommer, available business in my field. We called the networking is another big opportunity that Shavonn Greenway and Angel around to all of the big medical clinics, and I’ve received from this internship. Mayo. then we decided to outreach to TCC’s Health Director. What are your plans for after your Hobbies: Reading, Boating, and internship is over? taking walks with her 18-month- What has your experience interning with old. TCC been like? What have you been After my internship, I plan on going back to learning? UAF for the Fall Semester. I have 60 more hours of my externship and I am done with My internship with TCC is an 8-week my degree. Everyone who I met at TCC is difficult to get into the Nursing Program, so it’s internship and I am supervised by Dr. Dan hoping that I come back next spring to work really important to get good grades. I would Reynolds. with them. advise youth to volunteer at health fairs. This year I volunteered in Nenana and in Fairbanks I’ve pretty much worked with most of the What are your overall educational and which helped my make a lot of connections department directors. So I’ve done reception, career goals? with people. I think youth will just need to nursing, medical supply, radiology, and become familiar with the clinics in their area to coding. I also attended TCC’s Strategic After I get my Medical Assisting Degree, direct yourself into what type of medical field Planning Meeting with Deputy Health Director I would like to work in that for a while just to you want to go in. Jacoline Bergstrom. gain experience. Then I hope to go back to get my Bachelor’s. Any last remarks? What has been your favorite part of the internship? I will probably stay here in Alaska. I really When TCC first said that I would be able to liked working for TCC. work with them, I was so excited. Since this is Learning things that I couldn’t in my a leadership internship Dr. Reynolds has me Clinicals Courses. So in the first weeks of Do you have any advice for youth going work with all of the departments, which I’m glad my internship I learned how the whole clinic into the medical field? he did because I wouldn’t have had all these operated, even with the medical supply. I got amazing opportunities. to know each step in the patient relationship. If you want a Nursing Degree, its really

Page 10 The Council Newsletter Tanana Chiefs Conference Boating Safety Class Interior Teens take By Elizabeth Stanley, Tribal Youth Assistant, Nulato Tribal Council Office Leadership Role On Tuesday, June 17th, State of Alaska Of- four Tribal youth, William, James, Marvin, and fice of Boating, in collaboration with the Nulato me to present one topic to the community. in Boating Safety Tribal Council, Nulato Life Project, and the William and James presented on the different Tanana Chiefs Conference Community Health types of life jackets. Cimeon did a presenta- Education Outreach Program, held a boating peer educa- tion on floatation devices. I did a presenta- By Karen Eddy, Health and Safety Coordinator, tors class in Nulato. This was a two day event. tion about cold water and the effects. Before Community Health Outreach Program This class was instructed by Annie Grenier for the youth presentations, Annie worked with The TCC Community Health Outreach the State of Alaska Office of Boating Safety. the selected youth for an hour, to go over the Program has partnered with the State of Annie covered the following topics: risky and information and materials. The youth then Alaska Office of Boating Safety to bring safe behavior while on or near the water; three presented to the community, after Annie did an a new opportunity to our teens- the Kid’s stages of cold water immersion; explained the overview presentation. Don’t Float Peer Educator Program. The 1-10-1 steps, and how to survive in a cold After the community presentations, from both program is a fun, interactive approach that water immersion event; how to choose a life Annie and the youth, we walked over to the focuses on prevention, survival in cold jacket for its intended use; how to locate the Nulato Teen Rec Center to collect our free life water, importance of wearing a personal manufacturers label on a life jacket, making jackets which were purchased by the Nulato flotation device (PFD) that fits, and other sure it is US Coast Guard approved; explained Tribal Council. Each youth in our community safe water/boating practices. The focus is life jacket serviceability; demonstrated how to received one. on guiding teens to grow as leaders in their wear a life jacket properly and how to check communities. for proper fit; and identifying the legal age Be safe this summer, as you enjoy your During the 2-day training, peer educa- requirements for life jackets. time on the rivers and waterways across tors are trained on how to apply the Kid’s On Wednesday, June 18th, Annie selected Interior Alaska! Don’t Float Curriculum in developing their own lesson plans. The three primary mes- sages that teens promote in their presenta- tions to community youth and adults are the three stages of cold water immersion and the 1-10-1 principle, Alaska Law: Any person under age 13 must wear a type I, II, or III US Coast Guard Approved life jacket on the deck of a boat or in an open boat, and the best type of life jacket is the one you wear and the one that fits. Please take time to read what Elizabeth Stanley, Village of Nulato had to write about her recent experience as part of the peer edu- cators program.

For more information on the Kid’s Don’t Float Peer Educators Program, go to http://dnr.alaska.gov/parks/boating/kdfedu- page.htm or contact Kelli Toth at 269-6042 [email protected].

Jerry Isaac meets with TCC Fire Crew In June, After fighting a wild fire outside of Fairbanks, the TCC Fire Crew managed to visit the TCC Main Office before heading back home for some much needed rest. This summer has been a busy season for firefighters with unusually hot temperatures creating a high-risk environment for wild fires.

The Council Newsletter Tanana Chiefs Conference Page 11 Tanana Chiefs Conference Head Start and Early Head Start

Learn how you can prepare your child for success in school and a lifetime of learning. Tanana Chiefs Conference NOW ENROLLING FOR THE FALL! The Council Newsletter 122 First Avenue, Suite 600 Enrollment opportunities for pregnant Fairbanks, Alaska 99701 women, children ages birth to three, and children under the age of 5. Phone: (907) 452-8251 ext. 3570 Toll-free (Alaska): 800-478-6682 (Out-of-State) 800-770-8251 For additional Information or to request an Fax: (907) 459-3884 enrollment application contact: E-Mail: [email protected] Early Head Start & Head Start www.tananachiefs.org 122 first ave., Suit 600 www.facebook.com/TheCouncilNewsletter Fairbanks, AK 99701

1-800-478-6822 ext.3170 Letters to the Editor, other written contributions and 907-452-8251 ext.3170 photos submissions are welcome. However, space is limited and program-oriented news has priority. FAX: (907) 459-3952 We reserve the right to edit or reject material. Letters and opinions are not necessarily the opinions of Tanana Chiefs Conference. Material submitted anonymously [email protected] will not be printed.

Upcoming Events:

Public Hearing on the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program August 16th, 2013 2:00 - 4:00 P.M. Subsistence Fishing Photo Contest (See page 2 for more information) This contest is open to tribal members of ALL ages. Ceremonial Walk from Venetie to Arc- WHAT TO ENTER: tic Village (103 Miles) We are looking for images that represent the subsistence fishing of our people and its important connection to our August 17th - 23rd, 2013 culture. Your images could include people fishing, salmon hanging out to dry, fishwheels, people on boats, etc. 907-457-8265 If you choose to include people in your photographs, you will need to obtain media releases from those individuals www.ourarcticrefuge.org and send it in along with your photographs. (Media releases can be obtained by contacting The Council or by going (Walk willl conclude with a 2-day cel- to www.tananachiefs.org) ebration in Arctic Village) Photo captions must accompany all submissions, and should include the subject of the image, the locations the image was taken, and the name of the photographer. Suicide Prevention Week Please include your personal information such as; your name, your tribal affiliation, and valid contact information September 8th-14th (phone number, e-mail address and mailing address)

HOW TO ENTER: All photo submissions and media releases can be submitted to The Council Newsletter (e-mail and mailing ad- dresses are located above) For an updated list of events, go to: PRIZES: www.tananachiefs.org Grand Prize - $250 Gift Card to Fred Meyer (and have their photo published in The Council) 2nd Place - $100 Gift Card to Fred Meyer 3rd Place - $50 Gift Card to Fred Meyer

DEADLINE: August 30th, 2013

QUESTIONS: Questions and Inquiries can be \e-mailed to [email protected]

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