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HomeMy WebLinkAboutTribal News, Tlingit & Haida Central Council 2011WAZA \U lls. vhs April 2011 Central Council and State of Washington Enter into Tribal Child Support Agreement Submitted By: Tribal Child Support Unit In a historic move that will help strengthen tribal families, Edward K. Thomas, President of the Central Council of Tlingit and Haida Indian Tribes of Alaska (Central Council), and the State of Washington signed an Indian Nation Program Agreement for the Tribal Child Support Unit (TCSU) Program. Under the Agreement, the Washington State Department of Social & Health Services (DSHS) will provide federal tax offset services for child support orders issued by Central Council’s tribal court. To be eligible for the service, a case must meet specific criteria as outlined by federal regulations. This enforcement service will benefit tribal children whose parents are owed overdue child support. President Thomas commented that, “This agreement strengthens our goal, which is a community of healthy families invested in the future of the Tribe.” Central Council has been operating a federally-funded child support program since 2007. It is funded by the federal Office of Child Support Enforcement, the same federal source that funds Alaska’s Child Support Services Division. The tribal court has been issuing child support and paternity orders for over three years, but has encountered resistance from the State of Alaska. To provide federal tax offset services for child support cases, tribes that operate federally funded child support programs must enter into a written agreement with a state for the state to provide this service. Continued on page 18 Executive Council Edward K. Thomas President Will Micklin Ist Vice President Robert A. Sanderson, Ir. 2nd Vice President Yodean Armour 3rd Vice President Richard Peterson 4th Vice President Harold Houston 5th Vice President Lowell Halverson 6th Vice President Megan Gregory 2010-2011 Youth RépreSentative Shawn E by 2011-2012 Youth Representative Carolee Martin Promoted to Controller News from the Summer Youth E&T Program * NCAI Winter Session * Foster Care Announcement * — Sustain Angoon Demonstration Project * Travis Nashoanak Reaches Employment Goal | * Robert A. Sanderson Jr. Activities Update ° Energy Efficiency in the Office * A Single Mother * Energy Efficiency Grant N * Another Successful Sitka Family * — Child Care Providers Needed * — Congratulations Carl Marvin III * VPSO Program Welcomes Kake VPSO S * Ashley Stansell Patrick Morrison * — Honoring Elizabeth Peratrovich * VTRC Training Opportunities * Dr. Walter A. Soboleff Honored with Juneau * 15th Annual Spring King Salmon Derby I Lions Club Donation * Native Lands & Resources STRP Program * — Julie Chapman Promoted * Sea Otter Management Workshop D * Finance Welcomes Mike Halverson * — Sexuality & Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD) * — Kingfisher Fort Headdress Comes Home * President Thomas Speaks at U.S. National Science E * Upcoming Events from Native Lands & Resources Foundation Banquet . . Center for Native American Youth Launches Save the Date - SE Economic Development Summit NCAI Winter Session Submitted By: Melissa Kookesh On March 1, 2011 President Thomas was asked by the National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) to address the 2011 Tribal Nations Legislative Summit on the federal budget issues we are currently facing in Indian Country and across the nation. President Thomas graciously accepted this opportunity when it was discovered that the Associate Director of the General Government Programs of the Office of Management and Budget was not going to be able to break away from his prior commitment. Above: President Edward K. Thomas President Thomas spoke about the trust responsibility and federal funding that derives from the United States Constitution. He reminded the attendees that we ceded our land to the United States for promises of protection of Indian lands, self- governance, social, medical and educational services. Right: Senator Byron Dorgan He spoke about the FY 2011 Appropriations and the Continuing Resolution (CR). Currently the House is demanding large budget cuts, however, it was anticipated that the two week extension would have at least $4 billion in bi-partisan cuts. Most of the programs affecting Indian Country are funded at the FY 2010 levels. Currently on the cutting board are the United Tribes Technical College and Navajo Technical College for core funding; NCAI is currently working on getting these programs restored. He briefly discussed the current threats from a bill submitted by Senator Rand Paul (R-KY) to eliminate the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) and half of the Indian Health Service (IHS) funding, with GOP attempts to roll back funding to FY 2008 possibly even to FY 2006 levels. For the current FY 2011 Long Term CR, HR 1 is showing strong support from the House, and BIA and IHS are being held harmless compared to other agencies. Fortunately, there was overwhelming support for Congressman Don Young’s amendment to restore Alaska Native Education Equity, which was going to be cut in the first bill. This bill, if passed, proposes a 29% cut to the Native American Housing Assistance and Self Determination Act (NAHASDA) block grant totaling $200 million, which would put NAHASDA at the lowest funded level in history if enacted. In the current FY 2012 President’s Budget: ¢ IHS request is $4.6 billion, 14.1% increase * DOJ Indian program request is $424.4 million, 29% increase * BIA is level-funded with some increases for contract support costs and law enforcement, offset by decreases in construction * Indian Housing Block Grant request for $700 million and is level-funded Current trends in federal funding for Indian Country have left us as the lowest funded agencies for the past decade. Current requests for the FY 2012 President’s Budget are very promising for Indian Country based upon past funding levels. The key message President Thomas delivered to tribal leaders was the need to address Congress in not rolling back to FY 2008 funding levels and reminding them of the Constitution and the promises this has to Indian Country. The message to take to Congress is to try to restore the NAHASDA funding in HR 1 as well as education and other programs that are currently considered earmarks. In closing, President Thomas thanked the supporters of Indian Country in Congress and the Obama Administration for pledging to protect funding to Native Americans and all of the efforts revitalize the government-to-government relationships with the tribes. Sustain Angoon Demonstration Project Submitted By: Carrie Sykes Angoon community admires completed solar panel The Business and Economic Development Department (BEDD) completed the “Sustain Angoon Demonstration Project,” which retrofitted an Angoon home using affordable, energy efficient, renewable energy technologies. The goal was to demonstrate how homeowners could save money by reducing expensive electric heating costs and reduce dependence on expensive fossil fuel. A grant was obtained from the Alaska Native Tribal Health Consortium and additional funding was secured from a variety of sources before the project was initiated. Partnerships included Tlingit-Haida Regional Housing Authority (THRHA), Inside Passage Electric Cooperative, and the Southeast Alaska Conservation Council. To coordinate the project, a workgroup was created, planning meetings were held, and a home was selected. Installations included pre~ monitoring equipment, solar panels, solar hot water system, energy saving light fixtures and energy efficient appliances. Weatherization included replacing windows and installing additional insulation using the “outside insulation technique”. Benefits provided included: e Education and training opportunities on energy efficiency techniques; e Installing the first solar panels, solar hot water system, and small wind generator in Angoon; and e Producing a project documentary to educate local residents and other communities statewide about energy efficiency opportunities. A debut of the documentary was held in Angoon in January and an additional viewing was held at the Silverbow Inn for Alaska State legislative representatives and Juneau residents in February. To share the information, DVDs will be sent to tribes, schools and libraries in Southeast and can be viewed online at http://vimeo.com/19845038. Other project details are posted at www.sustainangoon.org. BEDD plans to develop further partnerships and pursue additional funding to expand the demonstration project in other Southeast Alaska communities. Robert A. Sanderson Jr. 2nd Vice President Activities Update I am pleased to report that I have attended numerous meetings over the last several months on behalf of Central Council. It’s very beneficial to the tribes to have representation at the table when decisions are being made that affect our people. I have touched on some of the issues that I have been involved with below. Indigenous People’s Council for Marine Mammals (IPCoMM) In March, I participated in the Indigenous People’s Council for Marine Mammals (IPCOMM) meeting in Anchorage. During the meeting, IPCOMM tribal members voiced their concerns to federal agencies in attendance. I raised the issue of the sea otter population explosion throughout Southeast Alaska and the havoc it has wreaked on our traditional way of life (subsistence) and the shellfish industry. There are many law enforcement issues and several tribal citizens are now in court over sea otter pelts. Their homes are being invaded by federal agents seeking evidence to use against them. This is wrong...it is an invasion of privacy. Another issue of discussion was “significantly altered” Native handicrafts. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service representatives were asked “What makes the Fish & Wildlife credible to judge Native art?” Our elders and Native artists need to determine this as it is handed down through the generations. I will continue to bring these issues to the table. Robert A. Sanderson Jr. Suicide Meetings Central Council has been very active at suicide meetings. I would like to commend Youth Representative Megan Gregory for all her efforts in this area. We will continue to take action to combat this most serious issue affecting ALL of our people. This has been one of the most difficult subjects I have ever had to deal with. Having said that, it gives me more determination and strength to continue to push hard to bring these numbers down and start turning the corner and seeing a better day for our people. Sometimes, all it takes is just to say, “Ii, How are you?”...that could mean the world to people dealing with depression and suicidal thoughts. Bullying in Schools On the local level, I have attended meetings regarding bullying in schools—an issue in all of our communities. I continue to push hard to see that our students will be educated in a safe and secure environment without this threat. This is one issue that I hope to represent Central Council on at the local, state, and federal levels. Salmon Bycatch Salmon bycatch is a serious issue. The pollock fishery in the Bering Sea is killing off our king and chum salmon by the tens of thousands each year, of which 15%-20% are destined for our Southeast waters. This negative impact significantly affects our subsistence and commercial fisheries. | have actively participated at meetings and will continue to testify to the North Pacific Fisheries Management Council on this issue. Other Important Issues I have participated in listening sessions with the USDA and the U.S. Forest Service on how best to protect our sacred sites. In order to have the best policies in place to protect these sites we need to involve our tribal leaders and elders. I am also concerned with the rising costs of fuel, food, shelter, and healthcare, and the impact that this has on our people. These are issues I will be bringing forward as I continue to listen to the concerns of our tribal citizens. In closing I would like to share that we are losing our esteemed elders at an alarming rate and with them the loss of our culture. We need to hold our elders in high regard and let them know that without them there is no future for our children. I would like to thank the Ketchikan Tlingit & Haida Community Council for their leadership and support. It has been a good year serving with this Executive Council and I look forward to serving another year. "Never lose your faith and hold hope close," ~ Rob Sanderson, Ir. A Single Mother Submitted By: George Jackson I work in the Sitka Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF) office and would like to share a story regarding a single mother of two, on her own and working her way to self- sufficiency. Like many others, it is difficult to make ends meet even in a two income household. Tanya Sam, a single mother, had the motivation and drive needed to become self-sufficient with the very little TANF benefits she received. Tanya, with limited resources, had the will and desire to provide Tanya Sam and daughter for her children. Tanya was first recruited to work in the Sitka TANF office and successfully completed our work experience program; she then completed the administrative clerk training which made her marketable in the administrative clerical field. After this Tanya applied for a part-time position as a Teacher Aide/Cook with Tlingit & Haida Head Start and was hired for the 2010-2011 school year. Tanya applied her work experience and training to her new Head Start position. Her supervisor was impressed with her work and offered her a permanent position shortly after she started. During the Fall of 2010, she accepted the full-time, benefited position and will be completing her first year of successful employment with Tlingit & Haida Head Start in Sitka. We are very proud of all the hard work Tanya does for our tribal citizens. Good Luck Tanya and. Congratulations! To learn more about the services offered through Central Council, visit our website at www.ccthita.org Contact Us Another Successful Sitka Family Submitted By: George Jackson Brandon Romane and Anna Speakman are brand new parents who moved to Sitka in November 2010. Their baby, Scarlett Romane, was born on September 9, 2010. As you can imagine, moving from Kotzebue can be expensive. This new family worked hard to keep up with the expenses from their relocation fees and new addition to their family. Living in a smaller community has its advantages, but it can mean families might need to work multiple jobs to make ends meet. When Brandon first applied for Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF), he had already secured a part-time job at West Marine as the assistant manager and Anna had a part-time job at AC Lakeside. Brandon did not stop at just one job; he obtained a second job working for the Hames Corporation in the meat department and was offered full- time employment! Brandon and Anna have achieved self-sufficiency in a short period of time; all this while they welcomed their new baby into the world. We would like to personally wish the Romane family the best of luck, but most of all congratulate both of them for working hard to become self-sufficient and welcomed members to the City of Sitka! Good Joh! Congratulations to Carl Marvin Ill. Submitted By: Barbara Taug In December 2010, Carl “Marv” Marvin III. applied for training with the Jobs Placement & Training Program in Central Council’s Employment & Training Division. Mr. Marvin was interested in Heavy Equipment Training, which he felt would enrich his future and make him marketable in the construction field. Mr. Marvin was eligible for services and successfully completed his Heavy Equipment Operations training and received his certificate at West Coast Training in January 2011. He also received training and completed his CDL Class A endorsement from All Training Services in Port Orchard, Washington. Mr. Marvin graduated with a 3.9 final field grade in February with 160 clock hours driving. Mr. Marvin has returned to Juneau and we are proud to announce he was hired by Channel Construction driving truck. He started his new job on March 17, 2011. Congratulations to Mr. Marvin for his great achievement! Ashley Stansell Submitted By: Sharon Parks Ashley Stansell became a Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF) client in July of 2007. After the birth of her son in August of that same year, she started raising him as a single mother. Ashley, like other TANF clients, had struggles along the way; these obstacles are present for many young parents struggling to become self- sufficient. One of the obstacles that Ashley faced was not having a high school diploma. She signed an agreement with Central Council to study and take the General Educational Development (GED) test. Ashley successfully passed her GED testing in November 2009 and received her diploma! Ashley Stansell Upon completing her GED, Ashley was referred to services with the State of Alaska, Department of Labor, Juneau Job Center (JJC), where she secured a scholarship from the JJC to pay for half of a training program through the Adult Vocational Institute (AVI) at the Southeast Regional Resource Center (SERRC). Ashley was very excited to attend and was ready to begin training in Combined Office and Computer Training Skills. Although she struggled to secure child care during training, she persevered. Ashley often recognized her barriers before they were pointed out to her, and accepted advice when offered to meet each obstacle head- on. As a result, due to her dedication and perseverance, she graduated with her AVI class on schedule, May 14, 2010. Services that were provided to Ashley by the TANF and Child Care programs included GED incentives, half of her tuition for computer training, work clothes, transportation/bus passes, and occasional food and sundries. Today, Ashley is using her training to seek and apply for work in the administrative assistance field. She hopes to secure a job in her field of training and work her way up the career ladder. Her goal is to become self-sufficient and raise her son comfortably. As her Case Manager I been impressed with her dedication and mind set about what she wants and her ability to go after it on her own. Ashley is a young mother who has faced many obstacles along the way, but remains positive and pro-active in her career/job search. Congratulations to Ashley! Keep up the good work! Honoring Elizabeth Peratrovich Submitted By: Melissa Kookesh On February 12, 2011, President Edward K. Thomas, Ist Vice President Will Micklin, 6th Vice President Lowell Halverson, and Assistant to the President Melissa Kookesh attended the Washington Chapter - Seattle T&H Community Council’s Elizabeth Peratrovich Day Celebration. The well-attended event was held at the North Seattle Community College in Seattle, Washington. ANB Grand President Richard Jackson and ANS Grand President Janice Jackson also traveled from Alaska to attend the event and pay their respect to the work of Roy and Elizabeth Peratrovich by giving the keynote address. The Jacksons are the first husband and wife to hold these two prominent positions concurrently since Roy & Elizabeth held them in 1945, President Thomas gave a wonderful piece of Tlingit and Haida history outlining the struggles endured at the time of the historic passage of the anti- discrimination act of 1945. President Thomas also had the honor to present the 2010 Tribal Assembly Host plaque to Frank O. Williams. Mr. Williams who was unable to attend the 2010 Tribal President Thomas presents Frank 0 Assembly, was very honored by the Williams with his 2010 Tribal Host plaque; gesture. Frank O. Williams also took Jay Cabuag is pictured on left a moment to share his remarks on the work of Roy & Elizabeth Peratrovich. Each year, during their Elizabeth Peratrovich Day celebration, the Washington Chapter ~ Seattle T<H Community Council honors women who “are outstanding in community involvement and who exemplify leadership qualities in the spirit of Elizabeth Peratrovich.” This year’s honorees were: Carolyn Heersema (Tlingit), Lisa Telford (Haida), and Donna Rae Roberts (Tsimshian). Each honoree was given an opportunity to share their work on behalf of the Tlingit, Haida and Tsimshian cultures — the words each shared were very moving. Another highlight of the event was a poem read by John B. Perkins on Elizabeth Peratrovich and her great work on behalf of all Alaska Native people. On February 16, 2011, the Office of the President staff attended a presentation honoring Elizabeth Wanamaker Peratrovich. This heart- warming event was sponsored by the Alaska Native Sisterhood Camps 2 and 70 along with the League of Women Voters. All who were in attendance were deeply moved by the Harborview Elementary School students in their presentation of traditional dance, language recital and powerful reenactment of the momentous speech given by Mrs. Peratrovich to the Alaska Territorial Senate on February 8, 1945. The Central Council is deeply appreciative to all of the organizations for their efforts in sharing and honoring the life work of Elizabeth Peratrovich. Dr. Walter A. Soboleff Honored with Juneau Lions Club Donation Submitted By: Allison Rhyner Dr. Walter A. Soboleff On March 21, 2011, 5th Vice President Harold Houston presented the Juneau Lions Club with a $1000 donation on behalf of Central Council. The donation was made in honor of Dr. Walter A. Soboleff to benefit the Juneau Lions Club Scholarship Fund. The presentation took place during the 65th Annual Gold Medal Basketball Tournament Welcoming Ceremony. Secretary to the President Allison Rhyner assisted Vice President Houston and had the honor of handing Lion Monarch Dr. Soboleff the donation. Central Council congratulates all Gold Medal participants and fans on their great sportsmanship as well as the 65th Annual Gold Medal Champions and Runner-ups. Masters Division Champions: Huna Masters Runner-up: Yakutat C Bracket Champions: Kake Tlingit Heat Runner-up: Huna Totem B Bracket Champions: Angoon Runner-up: Haines Merchants Julie Chapman Promoted Submitted By: Employment & Training Julie (Lane) Chapman has been promoted to the position of Supervisor to the Clerical Staff that are located at the 477/TANF Office in the Mendenhall Mall in Juneau. The Employment & Training (E&T) Division has been working on a departmental reorganization plan that will streamline the duties and responsibilities of key positions. Georgia Finau, Director of EXT, is excited that Julie has stepped up and is willing to take this position. Her experience, education and knowledge of the 477 Program will enhance the services we provide to our clients. Julie has demonstrated her commitment to Central Council and with her ability to talk with clients in a positive and reassuring way assures them that their concerns are heard and will be addressed in a timely manner. She will be working closely with the Case Manager Supervisor and the Training Coordinator to distribute the workload between three clerical staff members. This office handles the majority of the clients seen at Central Council. The 477/TANF staff have been working with approximately 610 clients/families, which includes services through Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF), Employment or General Assistance and Adult Vocational Training. Julie Chapman Julie was born in Angoon, Alaska where she was raised for several years until her family moved to Sitka. She is Raven Dog-Salmon. She moved back to Angoon as a teenager where she graduated from High School, started a family, and began working in the business field. Julie started off as a clerk-typist, which led to holding similar positions with tribal, municipal, and private organizations. In December 2009, Julie fulfilled a long-time goal of furthering her education when she received her Associate’s Degree in Business Administration through the University of Alaska Southeast. “T have always enjoyed the role of providing support and I still feel that way today, but the difference is, 1 now have an education that I feel has greatly enhanced my knowledge,” said Julie. Julie is married to Ned Chapman. She has three sons, Frank, Curtis and Michael. Julie will reach her one-year mark with the 477/TANF Department this month. Congratulations on your promotion Julie! Finance Welcomes Mike Halverson Submitted By: Finance Department The Finance Department is pleased to announce that Mike Halverson has accepted the position of Grant Administrator. In his new position, Mike will be primarily responsible for working with Program Managers in monitoring grant budgets and expenditures, assisting financial and program auditors with grant audits and preparing grant financial reports. Mike was born in Tacoma, Washington and moved to Juneau in 1972 while in the United States Coast Guard. Coincidentally, his family of origin moved to Juneau the same year when his father Ed Halverson took a job with Central Council for Mike Halverson Business and Economic Development. Following four years in the Coast Guard, including service as a Search and Rescue Controller on the Oregon Coast, he attended the University of Puget Sound in Tacoma before moving back to Juneau permanently in 1979. He retired from service with the State of Alaska and the University of Alaska in 2003. He held positions as manager of the Supplemental Benefits System and Active Employees Health Plan, Internal Auditor for the Public Employees and Teachers Retirement Systems, Grant Accountant for the Department of Education, and manager of the Federal Revenue Unit for the Department of Health and Social Services. While at the University of Alaska, he played a central role in implementing their new computing system, eventually being appointed as Project Director for the implementation of student related functions, such as accounts receivable and student records. Following retirement from public service, Mike worked at Greens Creek Mine as the general accountant and contracts manager. He comes to Central Council from the SouthEast Alaska Regional Health Consortium (SEARHC) where he was employed as a grant accountant. The Finance Department welcomes Mike and looks forward to utilizing his financial and budget management skills. We view this as an opportunity to put Mike’s knowledge to good use through mentoring other Finance staff. Kingfisher Fort Headdress Comes Home Submitted By: Native Lands & Resources The Virginia Museum of Fine Arts recently repatriated the Tlaxhaneis Noow Shakee.at (Kingfisher Fort Headdress) to the Raven House of the Lukaaxh. adi clan of Haines, Alaska. Central Council submitted the claim and received a grant from the National Park Service to take five clan leaders and staff to witness the transfer and bring home the headdress. Kingfisher Fort Headdress Ray Dennis, head of the Lukaaxh.adi clan and Raven House, accepted the headdress on behalf of the clan as the Wolf moiety (also called “Eagle” moiety) witnessed the transfer at a repatriation ceremony held at the Cultural Resource Center of the National Museum of the American Indian (NMAI) in Suitland, Maryland on March 2, 2011. During the ceremony, museum officials from the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts signed the headdress over to the clan. The headdress commemorates the peace between the Lukaaxh.adi done at the Kingfisher Fort between Haines and Klukwan. After this headdress was sold in the 1930’s the clan commissioned a replacement that is still in use. Upcoming Events from Native Lands & Resources The Native Lands & Resources Department is pleased to announce the following upcoming events that will take place in Juneau, Alaska: Earth Day Fair Date: April 23, 2011 Time: 11AM-— 3PM Location: Mendenhall Glacier Visitors Center The Earth Day Fair is open to the public and all ages are welcome. There will be speakers, activities and booths with information throughout the fair. Children may participate in recycling crafts and a scavenger hunt to discover ways to help the Earth. Trivia questions will be asked throughout the day with prizes awarded. Geographical Information System (GIS) Training Date: June 10— 12, 2011 Time: 8:30AM — 4:30PM Location: Vocational Training & Resource Center 3239 Hospital Drive The Southeast Environmental Conference and the 3rd Annual Culture Camp Date: June 27 —July 1, 2011 Time: 9AM — 4:30PM Location: Vocational Training & Resource Center 3239 Hospital Drive For more information on the these events, contact the Native Lands & Resources Department at 907.463.7184 or 463.7185. 10 Mark Your Calendars April Events 5: FASD and Sexuality Workshop — Juneau, AK Traditional Parenting Using the Public Educational System* — Juneau, AK 6-8: Child Maltreatment Conference — Juneau, AK 7: Native Issues Forum — Juneau, AK 12: Executive Council Meeting — Juneau, AK 12: Traditional Parenting Through the Native Educational System* — Juneau, AK gl 13-16: CCTHITA 76th Annual Tribal Assembly — Juneau, AK 17-20: NICWA 29th Annual “Protecting Our Children” National American Indian Conference on Child Abuse and Neglect — Anchorage, AK 19: Traditional Parenting Working in the Education System* — Juneau, AK 23: Earth Day Fair — Juneau, AK 26: Traditional Parenting Using Native Educational System* — Juneau, AK May Events 1-31: 15th Annual Spring King Salmon Derby 3: Love and Logic Parenting Video* — Juneau, AK 3-6: 2011 Advances in Indian Health Conference 5: NCAI 2011 Annual Tribal Exchange Network Tribal Users Conference — Palm Springs, CA 10: Learn about Tlingit Values and Culture* — Juneau, AK 12-13: Southeast Economic Development Summit — Juneau, AK 17: Learn about Haida Culture and Traditions* — Juneau, AK 24: Come Make Simple and Fun Projects* — Juneau, AK 24-25: BIA/TBAC 2011 — Washington, DC 30: Memorial Day 31: Learn about the WIC & “Kids on the Move” Car Seat Programs* — Juneau, AK _ June Events 7: Learn How Domestic Violence Impacts Children* — Juneau, AK 13-16: NCAI Mid Year Conference & Marketplace — Milwaukee, WI 13-16: 35th Annual National Indian Timber Symposium — Cloquet, MN 13-17: SAIGE 8th Annual National Training Conference — Tulsa, OK 14: The Importance of Having Dads Involved in a Child’s Life (last class until fall)* — Juneau, AK 18: Annual San Francisco Tlingit & Haida Community Council Picnic — Oakland, CA 25: Sealaska Annual Meeting — Haines, AK *Parenting Class offered by the TFYS Department trom 10-11AM on the 2nd floor of the Andrew Hope Building. Carolee Martin is Promoted to Controller Submitted By: Barbara Searls The Finance Department is pleased to announce that tribal citizen Carolee Martin was promoted from the position of Budget Accountant to Controller. In her new position, Carolee will be responsible for oversight of the day-to-day finance, accounting, budgeting and reporting activities of the Finance Department. She will provide valuable assistance to program managers and financial oversight of grants and contracts. Carolee Martin Carolee’s professional work history includes positions in accounts payable, procurement and Grant Administrator at Central Council’s Finance Department. During her six year break in service from Central Council, Carolee added to her professional work history by accepting a position at SouthEast Alaska Regional Health Consortium (SEARHC) as a Senior Grant Accountant and within a brief period of time was promoted to Senior Accountant. Carolee graduated from the University of Hawaii with a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration with an emphasis in Accounting. In addition to her extensive knowledge in grant, fund and budget accounting, Carolee brings years of supervisory experience, competent and proficient written and verbal communication skills, and strong interpersonal skills. Her education and professional work history has already proven to be an asset to the Finance Department. Carolee began her new position on March 8, 2011. Carolee is Deisheetaan, from Took’ka Hit (Needlefish House), originally Shisk7 Hit (Sapling Alder House) of the Ghaanaxh.ddi; Raven Beaver Clan of Angoon. Her parents are James Alfred Martin from Hoonah and Margaret [Albert] Martin of Angoon. Her grandparents are the late Johnny Albert (Skeendéi) of the Keet Ooxhu Hit (Killerwhale Tooth House) of the DakhIlaweidi and Hazel [Fred] Albert Bennett (Keinteen) of Angoon. “Tam excited to bring my knowledge and experience back to the Tribe in the role of controller,” said Carolee. “My goals are to mentor the Finance staff and provide quality customer service.” Congratulations on your promotion Carolee! Center for Native American Youth Launches Submitted By: Megan Gregory Senator Byron Dorgan, Megan Gregory and Senator Lisa Murkowski Youth Representative Megan Gregory had the opportunity to attend the launching of the Center for Native American Youth in February. Senator Byron Dorgan, who recently resigned from the senate, donated one million dollars of his campaign funds to found this center at the Aspen Institute. The center is committed to combating the challenges facing Native American youth across the United States in order to improve their overall health, safety and well- being, and reduce tragic suicide rates and premature death. Senator Dorgan is deeply passionate about Indian issues, especially those that relate to Native youth and youth suicide prevention, and he has held a number of Senate Committee on Indian Affairs hearings on these issues. In February 2011, Senator Dorgan invited me to serve as a Youth Board Member for the Center for Native American Youth. I am honored to have been asked to serve as a member of the board and I hope to help meet the many challenges facing our people today. 11 Foster Care -Important Announcement- Are you thinking about becoming a foster parent? To become a foster parent, you don’t need a fancy house, a spouse, or extensive parenting experience. You do need dedication, flexibility and patience. Most of all, you need a strong desire to provide a stable, loving and supportive home for a child or youth who needs one. Central Council’s Tribal Family & Youth Services Department is recruiting Alaska Natives and American Indians to become foster parents. There is a need in Southeast Alaska for culturally appropriate foster care for tribal children who are in the legal custody of the \ State. For more information on how to become a foster parent, contact: Geri Mata, Foster Care Recruiter In Juneau: 907.463.7350 Outlying Communities: 1.800.344.1432 #7350 Email: gmata@ccthita.org Alaska Center for Resource Families www.acrf.org Travis Nashoanak Reaches Employment Goal Submitted By: TVR Program Travis Nashoanak applied for vocational rehabilitation services in July 2009, in September of 2009 he received support for his disability and returned to Central Council’s Tribal Vocational Rehabilitation (TVR) program for assistance. Travis is a quiet reserved individual and was learning to work in an environment that was new to him, office work. Travis’ prior work history was in the construction field as a laborer, which he could no longer physically do. Travis knew he had to downsize because training in a new field meant he had to learn to live on a smaller income. He completed a financial literacy class with the 477 program and has used this resource to get organized, secure housing, and work on his daily living expenses. When Travis applied for services his ultimate goal was to work in the Information Technology (IT) field. He was very comfortable working with computers. Travis worked with TVR Counselor Eleanor Smith and Beau Kelly, State Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR) Program, on researching online computer training. Travis chose this type of training because he needed to work and support himself along the way. In 2010, TVR/DVR contacted the Sealaska Corporation Human Resources staff to set-up work experience (WE) for Travis in their IT Department. Travis completed 12 weeks of WE supported by both programs. It took time, but, eventually a position came open within Sealaska’s IT Department; to finalize the WE, he needed to complete an additional 12 weeks of On-the-Job Training (OJT), which ended December 2010. TVR/DVR again partnered to get Travis his final online computer training to receive his A+ Certification. Travis completed the course and received his A+ Certification in January 2011. This final course was needed to complete his OJT. Travis will continue online training to receive his N+ Certification. The A+ was the minimum pre-requisite for working in the IT field. We are very proud of Travis. He recognized his barriers and sought out services to help with his personal and professional life. We have noticed a definite positive change in Travis; he is confident, sure of himself and feels his choices and supports have helped him achieve his ultimate goal of working in the IT field. Travis is now employed full- time with Sealaska. Keep up the great work Travis! Energy Efficiency in the Office Submitted By: Raymond Paddock III. We can all help to be energy efficient, save money, and be environmentally responsible. How often do we rush out of the office leaving lights and computers on? Let’s face it, we do it often. We rush to get home, relax, and enjoy our time. We don’t worry about the office or energy being wasted. Below are a few facts that may trigger the energy efficient person in you. Did you know computers and other types of office equipment represent the fastest-growing use of electricity in commercial buildings and homes in the United States? Did you know two decades ago, office equipment accounted for only 1% of the total energy consumed in a typical office? Did you know it is now 20%? Here are a few ways for you to join Central Council’s “Green Team” energy saving efforts: e Replace incandescent lights with compact fluorescent lights (CFV’s) or light-emitting diodes (LED’s) for desk lamps and overhead lighting. Using CFLs instead of incandescent light bulbs can save about 50% on lighting costs. e Switch off unnecessary lights and turn off the computers, speakers, floor heaters, fans, radios, lights and anything else that doesn’t need to be on when you are not in the office. ¢ Use natural lighting when feasible. Easier said than done in the winter time in Alaska, but spring and summer is upon us and replacing your lamp or other lighting with natural light will save a lot of energy. Be one of the first 10 responders to committing to saving energy and win a prize----email Raymond Paddock at rpaddock@ccthita.org and state how you are committed to reducing energy or sign up to be on the Green Team. For more information on the Green Team call Raymond Paddock at 907.463.7184. Energy Efficiency Grant Submitted By: Elias Duran Central Council was awarded $191,000 from the U.S. Department of Energy to improve the energy efficiency of tribally owned facilities. The Tribe will utilize this funding to implement the recommendations by the consultant hired to audit the Tribe’s facilities. In order to maximize the impact of the limited funds, Central Council developed a twofold strategy to make certain the selected retrofits will yield the highest return on investment. The first part of this plan was to hire a certified energy audit contractor who specialized in commercial applications. After careful research, Partner Energy, a leader in the field of commercial energy audits, was selected to provide an on-site analysis of our facilities. The Partner Energy auditor arrived in Juneau last summer to perform the analysis. The audit was completed on our Juneau facilities: Andrew Hope Building, Edward K. Thomas Building, Vocational Training and Resource Center, Douglas Head Start Center, Tribal Court Building, and Records and Archive Storage Building. This portion of the project is now complete and our focus has shifted to phase two, retrofits. The analysis identified approximately $372,500 of recommended energy efficiency retrofits. The calculated cost savings after performing these upgrades will be approximately $52,500 per year. This translates to a simple payback of investment in just over seven years. We look forward to this incredible opportunity to reduce energy consumption, and in turn, the Tribe’s cost to operate our facilities. 13 e Providers Needed Child Care Assistance Program Southeast Alaska is experiencing, a shortage of infant and toddler care. The Child Care Assistance Program at Central Council would like to increase availability by recruiting individuals who are interested in becoming child care providers. Who should apply? * Age 18 or older * Tribally enrolled or interested in caring for tribally enrolled children * Must pass criminal background check Benefits: * Criminal background check provided at no charge * Business license * Training in Pediatric CPR/First Aid, Early Childhood classes, and Child Development Associate Certification * Health & safety equipment provided (fire extinguishers, safety gates, locks, etc.) * Age appropriate toys & books provided For information, please contact Central Council’s Child Care Assistance Program at 463.7140 or toll free at 800.344.1432 # 7140. VPSO Program Welcomes Kake VPSO Patrick Morrison Submitted By: VPSO Program Central Council’s Village Public Safety Officer (VPSO) Program is proud to announce the hire of Patrick Morrison Jr. as VPSO for the community of Kake, Alaska. Patrick, also known as “Paco” to family and friends, was born in Burlington, Vermont to Roberta and Patrick Morrison Sr. When he was just days old, his family moved to the Big Island of Hawaii where he and his siblings grew up. He is the second oldest and has four sisters whose names from oldest to youngest are Marilee, Melanie, Serena, and Melissa. Patrick Morrison While growing up in Hawaii, he developed a strong love for the ocean and sincere connection to the Hawaiian culture. He started surfing at the young age of eight and later began spear diving and competitive canoe racing. He graduated from Kea’au High School and later worked for the Volcanoes National Park where he spent many days working to protect and preserve Hawaii’s valuable indigenous ecosystems. In the summer of 2006, Patrick had the pleasure of visiting Kake, Alaska and was blown away by the beauty and people. During the couple of months that he spent in Kake, he explored the many outdoor activities Alaska has to offer. “ve always wanted a rewarding career that was meaningful and made a difference in people’s lives,” said Patrick. “Although I will miss Hawaii and am very fortunate to have been able to grow up there, I feel change plays an important role in life and presents new experiences and opportunities to better ourselves. I am very happy to be where I am and feel blessed to be a part of the Kake community.” Central Council’s Tribal Operations Department continues to recruit for the VPSO Program. If you are a tribal citizen interested in a career as a Village Public Safety Officer, please contact VPSO Coordinator Jason Wilson at 907.463.7738 or e-mail jwilson@ccthita.org. The Village Public Safety Officer (VPSO) Program trains and employs individuals residing in the village as tirst responders to public satety emergencies such as search and rescue, tire protection, emergency medical assistance, crime prevention and basic law enforcement. The presence of VPSOs has had a significant impact on improving the quality of life in participating villages. Ha Kaak Has Ka Hidi (Our Uncles’ House) Vocational Training & Resource Center Training Opportunities Are you looking to update your computer or vocational skills? Stop by the Vocational Training & Resource Center (VTRC) and register now for an upcoming class. APRIL .... Introduction to Access 2007 ... Advanced Access 2007 .. Microsoft PowerPoint 2007 Complete . Introduction to Visio Professional 2010 State Certified Drivers Education . Flagger Certification . Introduction to Adobe Photoshop CS5 new class! . Hazardous Waste Operations 8 Hour (Refresher) . CDL Class A Driver Training .. Introduction to Adobe InDesign CS5 new class! MAY .... Introduction to Computers . Introduction to Word 2007 . Introduction to Outlook 2007 . Oil Burner Maintenance and Troubleshooting . Advanced Outlook 2007 - QuickBooks 2010 - Beginner to Intermediate User .... National Oilheat Research Alliance ~ Silver Certification . Advanced Word 2007 .... State Certified Drivers Education ... QuickBooks 2010 ~- Beginner to Intermediate User .. Internet Search Techniques .... Introduction to Excel 2007 .. Advanced Excel 2007 .... Introduction to Access 2007 ... Advanced Access 2007 .... Adv. Oil Burner Troubleshooting: Boilers & Warm Air Units .. Introduction to Adobe Acrobat 9.0 Pro new class! 10-11 ... National Oilheat Research Alliance ~ Gold Certificate 13-July 27.. ... CDL Class A Driver Training 14-16.. .. Application Development with Access 2007 14-16 ZA ZS eesee ... QuickBooks 2010 - Beginner to Intermediate User .. Dreamweaver CS5 Complete .... Introduction to Excel 2007 30-July 1... Advanced Excel 2007 Vocational Training & Resource Center ¢ Training for your future Phone 907.463.7375 * 3239 Hospital Drive * www.vtrc.org 15 15th Annual Spring King Salmon Derby May 1-31, 2011 Get ‘your tickets early & save! APRIL 22nd ONLY: Join us for a live remote from 3 - 6PM at Western Auto-Marine. Listen to KINY, KSUP, KJNO or KTKU for a chance to win a free ticket during this remote. You can also stop by Western Auto-Marine between 3 - 6PM and save $5 on your ticket price. If you can’t make the live remote, you can purchase derby tickets at the regular price ($35) from the following locations beginning April 22nd: » Alaskan & Proud Market » DeHart’s Store » Harri Plumbing & Heating » Rayco Sales » Western Auto-Marine Get in gear...the derby here! Central Council’s Alumni Scholarship Assistance Program sponsors the annual Spring King Salmon Derby. For more information on the derby, contact Leslie Isturis at 907.463.7133 or visit the derby’s website: www-springkingderby.org 16 Native Lands & Resources STRP Program Submitted By: Native Lands & Resources Central Council has started a new program known as the State & Tribal Response Program (STRP) in its Native Lands & Resources (NLR) Department. STRP is designed to give tribes funding to identify, inventory, assess, and develop a plan responding to potentially contaminated sites (land or water) that are presently too unhealthy for safe usage, but may be used again through rehabilitation. In the initial implementation of STRP, we have worked to establish a team in the NLR Department to begin development of a plan to establish inventories of potentially contaminated sites immediately in or near Auk Kwaan and Taku Kwaan territories. While beginning this process, Central Council fully recognizes the cultural sensitivity, connection, and belonging that both the Auk Kwaan and Taku Kwaan have to Juneau and its surrounding lands, and is working closely with the Douglas Indian Association to make sure the steps we take to heal the lands in the area is done with the utmost respect. The Tribe’s STRP program has a unique vision and approach in comparison to other Environmental Protection Agency funded programs in that the Tribe will draw focus on traditional and cultural knowledge, history, and usage in establishing our inventory. The highlight of the program may very well be our commitment to involving the youth entirely in the STRP development process. Our youth will gain environmental awareness, value of culture, cooperative learning, work ethic, and public speaking just for starters. Central Council established a youth-led Environmental Youth Leadership Team (EYLT) in mid-November 2010. It is our hope to expand the program to other schools and communities throughout Southeast Alaska as we continue to establish a strong, positive, and healthy direction for our initial team. We are excited at the prospects of rehabilitation for lands so important and sacred to our people and to other citizens. Keep your eyes out for developments in the program as it progresses. Public records will be established very soon, so be sure to visit our website at www.ccthita.org. NLR Environmental staff with youth Sea Otter Management Workshop Sitka ANB Hall - March 22-23, 2011 Submitted By: Carrie Sykes Alaska Natives have harvested and utilized sea otter since time immemorial for use in traditional ceremonies and for trade. The Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA) provides for Native hunting for subsistence purposes in a non-wasteful manner. Sea otter populations have increased dramatically since reintroduction to Southeast Alaska in the 1960s by the Alaska Department of Fish and Game. Their numbers have grown at alarming rates (approximately 13% to 18%). There are reports of devastation to seafood resources such as abalone, clams, cockles, crabs, geoducks, and sea cucumbers. This is greatly impacting istence resources and access to our suk has reached a crisis situation! The purpose of the workshop was to educate participants on current sea otter issues, regulations affecting tribal members as qualified harvesters under the MMPA, and discuss possible management solutions. The event was funded by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) and all Southeast tribes were invited to participate in the planning meetings. There were over twenty participants daily with representatives including tribal council members, Native hunters, taggers, and artists. Carrie Sykes provides agenda overview Major issues discussed included enforcement actions related to MMPA definitions and interpretations including significantly altered, mass production, and qualified hunters/artists. Barriers to Native harvest include education about the MMPA, hunting expenses (gas, bullets), tanning costs, and learning opportunities for hunting and skin-sewing. Many possible solutions were discussed and included: * Request tribal consultation with the FWS Office of Law Enforcement to develop MMPA definitions with tribal input; * Provide suggestions for regulation changes for Representative Don Young’s proposed amendments to the MMPA (HR6394); * Negotiate tribal cooperative agreements for management; and * Develop an information exchange system, a tribal coalition, and more Southeast tanneries. For immediate action, participants have been provided a draft resolution for their tribal council consideration and a follow-up teleconference will be held. Meetings are being planned with the FWS Office of Law Enforcement while tribal representatives are in Juneau for Tribal Assembly. All agreed that the sea otter population has had catastrophic impacts to the seafood resources and tribal management measures must be taken immediately to minimize further impacts. 17 Tribal Child Support Agreement (Cont. from cover) When negotiations with the State of Alaska to provide federal tax offset services failed, the Tribe sought approval from the federal office of child support to begin negotiating with the State of Washington to provide the service. Discussions with Washington State DSHS officials resulted in a mutually acceptable agreement for Washington to provide this service to children and families that have tribal child support orders meeting the requirements for the offset. The agreement between Central Council and the State of Washington recognizes that both the State of Washington and the Central Council are sovereign governments. The mutual objective of the agreement is to further the government-to-government relationship and to ensure efficient and beneficial child support services to children and families. For additional information, contact Eddie Brakes, Tribal Child Support Unit Manager or Jessie Archibald, Tribal Child Support Unit Attorney. You may also go to the Washington State Child Support website to view a copy of the agreement at www.dshs.wa.gov/ des/tribal/csagreements.asp. 18 Sexuality and Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD) Submitted By: KJ Metcalfe No Charge - Open to All - Lunch Provided Date: April 5, 2011 Time: 8:30AM — 5:PM Location: Centennial Hall Plan to attend the free day-long FASD and Sexuality workshop on April 5th at the Juneau Centennial Hall. This is a rare opportunity to learn from national presenters how parents, care providers and justice workers can navigate this touchy but vital issue. Program registration and details can be accessed online at https://sites.google.com/site/juneaufasd/home. A healthy, loving and caring expression of our sexuality is truly one of God’s gifts. Yet, a safe model for expressions of sexuality for anyone growing up in today’s world is challenged by an avalanche of other models portrayed through the internet, films, peer pressure, ads and more. Imagine adding to this a brain disorder that makes everyday decisions with a disconnect between actions and consequences and forgetting one day what was learned the previous day. This is compounded with a maturing adult body with the social and cognitive abilities of a child. This is FASD - the reality of a developing fetus being exposed to alcohol. A young or older adult with an FASD and a brain that will forever have the executive functioning capability of an 8-14 year old often results in a strong attraction to younger children. When these interactions are of a sexual nature a great deal of trauma, grief and prison time can result. Once in prison the trauma can be compounded when those prisoners identified as being convicted of sexual abuse of minors are almost always targeted for sexual abuse and extortion. There is no one in prison who has a lower standing (among other prisoners, guards and administrators) than one who has abused children. This helps explain Alaska’s high rate of sexual abuse, incarceration and reoffending. The human tragedy and cost of this is hard to imagine. One obvious solution is to prevent the inappropriate sexual behavior from occurring. And, when it does occur, have a care system in place that supports both the abused and abuser. For prevention to be a reality, the entire FASD care system (parents, teachers, providers, justice system etc.) must understand the challenges of those with an FASD in achieving a safe and positive expression of their sexuality. This will require an understanding of FASD and sexuality, strategies for intervention and redirecting and reinforcing -~~ not once but, again, again and yet again. President Thomas Speaks at U.S. National Science Foundation Banquet Submitted By: Allison Rhyner President Thomas attended a U.S. National Science Foundation banquet on March 23, 2011, at the Juneau Arts and Cultural Center, where he was one of five panelists providing a Native perspective on environmental and climate change issues in Alaska. The audience included 80 Native and non-Native scientists and university students from the University of Kansas, Haskell Indian Nations University, Dartmouth University, and the University of Alaska. President Thomas enjoying the banquet with his niece Barbara Blake, a UAF Rural Development BA graduate The students traveled to Juneau to participate in a workshop on traditional knowledge and scientific research on environmental change in Alaska and the Arctic. Topics discussed were the Native Alaskan perspective on environmental and climate change in Alaska, subsistence issues and the declining economy. President Thomas spoke about the structure of Central Council Tlingit and Haida Indian Tribes of Alaska and the economic struggles Alaskans face in our rural communities. For additional information on the workshop, please visit: www.nsfepscor.ku.edu/hers/index-hers.html. The National Science Foundation (NSF) is an independent federal agency created by Congress in 1950 “to promote the progress of science; to advance the national health, prosperity, and welfare; to secure the national detense...” With an annual budget of about $6.9 billion (FY 2010), NSF is the funding source for approximately 20 percent of all federally supported basic research conducted by America’s colleges and universities. In many fields such as mathematics, computer science and the social sciences, NSF is the major source of federal backing. News from the Summer Youth Employment & Training Program Submitted By: Osce Robertson The Summer Youth Employment & Training Program (SYETP) staff are pleased to announce they are CURRENTLY RECRUITING EMPLOYERS interested in putting tribal youth to work. ¢ SYETP will pay the salary of the youth participant. * Employment will begin on June 6, 2011 and will run through the summer. * Full-time and part-time positions welcome. The purpose of the program is to enable youth participants to become active members in the community by providing them with employment and training while encouraging healthy families, education, and leadership. If you are interested in hiring a youth worker or would like to learn more about SYETP, contact: Osce Robertson Job Placement Specialist 907.463.7171 Toll Free at 1.800.344.1432 #7171 Central Council welcomes news from tribally enrolled citizens. If you have news to share, or would like to receive Tribal News, contact: Jodi Garrison, Office of the President/Publications Edward K. Thomas Building + 9097 Glacier Highway, Juneau, AK 99801 Direct: 907.463.7123 + Toll Free: 1.800.344.1432 #7123 Email: jgarrison@ccthita.org 19 Central Council Tlingit & Haida Indian Tribes of. Alaska 9097 Glacier Highway Juneau, Alaska 99801 www.ccthita.org RETURN SERVICE REQUESTED Preserving our sovereignty, en jancing our economic and cultural resources, and, promoting self-su ficiency and. self-governance for our citizens through collaboration, SErVICE, and. advocacy, a PRESORTED STANDARD PAID Juneau, AK Permit No. 139 May //C SAVE THE DATE Southeast Economic Development Summit May 12-13, 2011 Alaska Native Brotherhood Hall Juneau, AK With shrinking budgets and declining populations, community collaboration and, partnerships are essential for success! Co-Sponsored by Central Council Tlingit & Haida Indian Tribes of Alaska and Sealaska Corporation For more information contact Central Council’s Business & Economic Development Department at 907.463.7147 or toll free at 1.800.344.1432 #7147. Summit information is also available online at www.ccthita.org. a1 wr V