Alaska Federation of Natives Convention 2010

The voice of Interior Alaska since 1903 newsminer.com

Oct. 18-20

“Village Survival!”

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Alaska Federation of Natives Convention 2010

Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

Index Welcome.......................................... 4 Schedule.......................................... 5 Issues .............................................. 6 2010 Theme .................................... 8 AFN history ...................................... 10 Keynote speaker.............................. 12 Native peoples of Alaska ................ 13 Broadcast schedule ......................... 14 Fairbanks history ............................. 15 Public safety .................................... 16 Morris Thompson Center ................. 17 Volunteers........................................ 18 Transportation ................................. 20 Qyana .............................................. 21 Arts and Crafts ................................ 23 Village Survival! photographs .......... 25

Elders and youth.............................. 27 Elder of the Year .............................. 29 Alaska Native Language Center ...... 33 Common expressions ...................... 34 AFN Mission statement ................... 35 Fairbanks map ................................. 36-37 AFN Board ....................................... 39 Athabascan Words of the Week Intro ................................................. 40 Culture week.................................... 41 Extended learning............................ 42 Where is Dad? ................................. 44 Sled dog racing................................ 49 Trapping .......................................... 50 Beaver camp ................................... 51

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Potlatch............................................ 52 Sled making ..................................... 52 Coming home .................................. 53 Fishing ............................................. 53 Tanning moose skin ......................... 54 Making a paddle .............................. 56 Fish camp ........................................ 56 Trapping marten .............................. 57 Alaska Marketplace ......................... 58 AFN villages .................................... 59 ‘Fab Lab’ .......................................... 60 Howard Luke camp.......................... 63 Education program .......................... 64 Hannah Solomon ............................. 65 Gwitch’in stories .............................. 69

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Alaska Federation of Natives Convention 2010

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Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

Alaska Federation of Natives Convention 2010

Welcome Welcome, and welcome back.

The annual Alaska Federation of Natives convention returns to Fairbanks this week, along with the annual Elders and Youth Conference.

The two events, which always run in tandem, will give Fairbanks a different — and enjoyable — flavor. Alaska Natives from around the state will be in town to conduct important business, see old friends and spend some time in the Interior’s largest city.

Events will be held primarily at the Carlson Center.

Many people in Fairbanks have worked hard to prepare the city to be a good host. It has been three years since AFN delegates last gathered in Fairbanks, and the city hopes to have the group come to the city in the

years ahead.

So what is it all about? This special Fairbanks Daily News-Miner section marking the 2010 AFN convention in Fairbanks will explain all that as well as provide some basic info about what’s going on and where it’s happening.

How to get around Fairbanks North Star Borough’s MACS transit system will provide free bus rides for registered AFN delegates. For a ride, people will be asked to present their badges. The Yellow route travels downtown and to the Carlson Center regularly. All bus routes will stay the same during the convention. Schedules can be found inside buses and at the downtown bus

transit station.

For a map of Fairbanks, check out the center of this section, with bus routes and taxi phone numbers provided.

Public safety The non-emergency number for Fairbanks police is 459-6500, while Alaska State Troopers in Fairbanks can be contacted at 451-5100.

Dial 911 in an emergency.

AFN broadcast There will be live television coverage broadcast throughout the week available on GCI Channel 1, 360 North and Alaska Rural Communications Service. The same coverage will also be available by web-streaming on

firstalaskans.org and nativefederation. org.

Radio station KNBA will be plugged into the audio at the Carlson Center for clear listening. They will broadcast AFN from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Thursday and Friday, with a lunch break from noon to 1:30 p.m. On Saturday they will broadcast from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m., depending on how long the conference goes.

Arts and Crafts Fair More than 100 Alaska Native artisans from all regions of the state will be selling their handmade wares at the Alaska Native Arts and Crafts Fair held in conjunction with the Continued on Page 5

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Alaska Federation of Natives Convention 2010

John Wagner/News-Miner

Members of the Naqsrgmiut Dancers dance October 26, 2007, during the Alaska Federation of Natives Convention at the Carlson Center.

Continued from Page 4

Alaska Federation of Natives annual convention. The Arts and Crafts Fair will run all three days of the convention at the Carlson Center and is open

to the public.

Quyana The Arts and Crafts Fair will be Native dance groups from northern held Thursday and Friday from 8 a.m. and interior Alaska will have a chance to 7 p.m. and Saturday from 8 a.m. to to show off their skills at this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 4 p.m.

Quyana dance celebration during the

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Quyana runs from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. Thursday and Friday.

Twenty groups signed up this year.

Their performances will cover two days.

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Alaska Federation of Natives Convention 2010

Schedule MONDAY, Oct. 18 Elders and Youth Conference Carlson Center 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

Registration: $50, 7 a.m.-4 p.m.

“The Winter Bear” theater performance Pioneer Park, 2300 Airport Way 7 p.m. $12

TUESDAY, Oct. 19 Elders and Youth Conference Carlson Center 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

Registration: $50, 7 a.m.-1 p.m.

Fairbanks Dance to welcome convention attendees Chief David Salmon Tribal Hall, 111 Clay St.

C H E N A

Native Arts and Crafts Show Carlson Center 8 a.m.-7 p.m., 0pen to public

6 p.m., $5 per person; $20 for a family Youth dance/Elder bingo Pioneer Park 7-10 p.m.

Quyana Alaska I Carlson Center 7-11 p.m. $10 per person

WEDNESDAY, Oct. 20 Elders and Youth Conference Carlson Center 8 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

AFN Special Healing Catholic Mass Sacred Heart Cathedral, 2501 Airport Way, 3 p.m.

FRIDAY, Oct. 22

Traditional community welcoming potlatch Big Dipper Arena, 1920 Lathrop Street 5-9 p.m. Open to public

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Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

Sunday, October 17, 2010

Alaska Federation of Natives Convention 2010

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Issues Convention serves as policy platform

By CHRISTOPHER ESHLEMAN ceshleman@newsminer.com This year’s Alaska Federation of Natives convention could produce anything from a “children’s bill of rights” to a challenge to federal fishery managers.

Last year’s did. And, as they do every year, delegates will use the annual convention to set policy statements for the full federation.

The federation’s interest are broad, and its list of annual priorities reflects that. Forty-two resolutions emerged from the 2009 con-

vention, held in Anchorage.

Many dealt with subsistence hunting and fishing. Others focused on health and social welfare. One resolution, proposed by Koniag Inc., encouraged tribal groups to work with federal and state agencies to protect coastal habitat due to climate change’s “dramatic impact on the overall health of the Bering Sea and other oceanic systems” in Alaska.

Corporate members were still, as of early October, drafting a slate of proposed policy initiatives for this year’s convention. If last year’s list is any guide, many will focus on

subsistence rights, substance abuse or tax laws.

The 2009 convention resolutions included the following: • A request for statewide comprehensive strategies for helping the homeless Native homeless population; • Support of provisions within the federal 8(a) small business development program that benefit Alaska Native corporations; • A request that federal fishery managers create a 50-mile coastal buffer against bottom trawling to protect subsistence uses; • Condemnation of federal managers for failing to pro-

Eric Engman/News-Miner

vide for subsistence harvest needs; • A request that the governor, Congress and president to “address disastrous salmon declines” across the state; • Support for expanded rights to use sea otter pelts in handicrafts; • A request for funding for Alaska Native co-management of wildlife; • Support for federal legislation to give tribes authority

over domestic violence and alcohol and drug crimes; • A request for federal tax breaks for Native corporations that create conservation easements; • A review of ways to transfer Native allotment land to federally recognized tribal governments; • A request that federal agencies consult with tribes on all management of land and marine waters.

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Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

Alaska Federation of Natives Convention 2010

2010 theme Future of Alaska’s villages a major concern

By CHRISTOPHER ESHLEMAN ceshleman@newsminer.com The exclamation point on this year’s convention theme — “Village Survival!” — is no typo.

“This is a declaration that the villages will survive and thrive, and an invitation to discuss how,” said Erin Fogg, a spokeswoman for the Alaska Federation of Natives. She said the James Barker photo larger theme “reflects both an awareThe convention will focus on the chal- ness of the challenges that Native lenges of helping villages survive and communities face, and the innovation, thrive. strength and resilience of these com-

munities.”

The convention will include discussions and panel presentations about life today in villages, many of which predate Alaska’s population booms in the early 1900s. Fogg said delegates will hear about, and reflect on, lifestyles that work and traditions that may need to adapt to work better in urban and rural villages.

She said topics will range from technology to affordable energy, health and wellness to education.

The convention will debut a “Village Survival!” photography exhibit

with photographs submitted by Natives from across the state.

“The exhibit represents a celebration of their individual visions of village life and survival,” Fogg said.

The federation explained this year’s theme further on its website: “It’s about life, progress, and taking bold steps to preserve and grow our communities and traditions.”

A convention committee within the federation’s broader board of directors chose the theme, Fogg said.

Contact staff writer Christopher Eshleman at 459-7582.

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Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

Alaska Federation of Natives Convention 2010

A rich history Land claims, education helped propel formation of AFN

By SUZANNA CALDWELL scaldwell@newsminer.com In the late 1950s and early ’60s, Alaska Natives around the state and in the Interior were trying to deal with multiple issues.

In 1959, Alaska became a state.

While that brought benefits, it also brought serious questions. The largest for Alaska Natives: How would land be allocated?

The land, to them, was more than just land. It was their life. In his 1969 testimony to Congress, Alfred

Ketzler discussed what it would mean to have claims to the land.

“We believe our ownership and ties to our land far exceeds any deed,” he said. “We never did need any document to tell us the land is ours. This we have always known.”

But there were other issues, too.

For Mary Jane Fate, who would later serve as co-chair of the Alaska Federation of Natives, the main issue Interior Alaskans were facing was education.

It was so important that she and a handful of other dedicated Alaska

Native leaders formed the Fairbanks Native Association. Their goal was to increase awareness of Native education issues. It turned into many long nights, with families helping to stuff envelopes and stage bake sales to help raise funds for the organization. It was about getting organized and collectively coming together for a cause.

Many of these smaller groups from around the state got involved with AFN, which met for the first time in Anchorage in 1966. The goal of the conference was to find a way to obtain a fair

Please see HISTORY, Page 11

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land settlement for Alaska Natives.

Fate said the process was helped by graduates of Mt. Edgecumbe High School, who had created and maintained informal families while at the Bureau of Indian Affairs school near Sitka. Fate said many, like her, had “little sisters” who they helped feel comfortable in the new surroundings. Decades later, she would find those relationships invaluable.

“We had to pull together,” she said. “We had to become ‘basketball players.’”

Sunday, October 17, 2010

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Alaska Federation of Natives Convention 2010

HISTORY: Rampart dam, Project chariot galvanized organizers Continued from Page 10

the Rampart Controversial projects also helped to spur Native people to organize.

Dam project stirred The federal government proposed, for example, to use nuclear bombs to up interest, but the excavate a harbor near Point Hope.

Opposition to “Project Chariot” was underlying issue fierce, especially in the tiny village.

The Interior had its own equivawas unresolved lent in the Rampart Dam project.

The U.S. government proposed buildNative land claims. ing a dam on the Yukon River near the village of Rampart that would After statehood was have flooded an area the size of Lake Erie and in the process destroyed passed the issue nine villages. It was supported not only by Alaska Sen. Ernest Gruening was how to deal but also national politicians including Richard Nixon and John F. Kenwith Alaska Native nedy.

But Native people came out land holdings. strongly against the project. The statewide Native-oriented newspaper Tundra Times, which had been influential in opposing Project Chariot, also opposed the Rampart Dam. Native land claims. After statehood Ketzler said the Rampart Dam was passed the issue was how to deal project stirred up interest, but the with Alaska Native land holdings. underlying issue was unresolved

sure what to do them. So he sent them to then-President John F. Kennedy.

He received a letter from the president, who forwarded the petitions to then-Secretary of the Interior Stewart Udall. Those petitions later became part of the basis for land claims in Alaska, according to Ketzler, and influenced Udall’s decision to freeze the selection of Alaska state lands until Native claims issues could be resolved. That was in 1966, just a few months after the AFN meeting, and it gave Native leaders the chance to move forward and eventually win passage of the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act. Ketzler said that, by the end of He said that people came from all it, following the passage of ANCSA over the Interior, and they paid for in 1971, he took a break from the the travel and lodging themselves. At Tanana Chiefs Conference. one point, they received a grant from “After all the lobbying, I was tired the Association of American Indian and weary,” he said.

Affairs. They used the money to fly Still, he was proud of what they people from Fairbanks to Tanana. had accomplished.

After the meeting, Ketzler said, “I did things a little village guy they sent out pamphlets and petinever dreamed of doing,” he said. tions to rural villages. After they Contact features writer Suzanna Caldwell were signed returned, Ketzler wasn’t at 459-7504.

“People were worried about hunting, about losing their jobs,” Ketzler said.

In 1962, he and a group of people figured they needed to discuss what was happening with their lands in a way that could enact change.

“We thought it was better to create an organization that would do it legislatively,” Ketzler said.

They held a meeting that year and decided to call their group the Tanana Chiefs Conference. He said that several politicians, including Ernest Gruening, tried to get in. Ketzler said they tried to “show them how to do it” so the Native leaders banned them from participating.

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Alaska Federation of Natives Convention 2010

Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

Keynote speaker O’Neill sees wealth of potential in Alaska Native community

By TIM MOWRY tmowry@newsminer.com

ing as one.

“This is about how we lever our resources and connect history to a For Gloria O’Neill, it’s all about new dialogue of possibilities,” she tapping potential. It doesn’t matter said. “Where we are today in the whether it’s an individual, a commuNative community is really undernity or a culture. standing the resource base we have “It’s knowing who you are, what and where we want to be in the next you bring to the world and what 40 years. impact you can make,” O’Neill said.

“How do we leverage resources Those are questions that Alaska to create opportunity? How do we Natives, both individually and as a engage the state in dialogue? How do whole, must ask themselves during we frame the conversation and what what she said is a transition period are the questions we need to ask?” for Natives in Alaska. O’Neill is the It’s the same dilemma facing all keynote speaker at this year’s Alaska Alaskans, not just Natives, O’Neill Federation of Natives Convention in said.

Fairbanks.

“This is not just about the Native “This is not about rural Alaska and community,” she said. “This is really urban Alaska,” O’Neill said. “I’m talk- about Alaska and we’re a very big ing about the Native community mov- part of what happens in this state.”

Those are some of the points O’Neill will focus on during her keynote speech at the convention.

O’Neill has been trying to help Alaska Natives tap into their potential for the past 20 years working for the Cook Inlet Tribal Council Inc. The council is a nonprofit social services organization established in 1983 by Cook Inlet Region Inc., the for-profit regional Native corporation from Southcentral Alaska. The CITC offers more than 50 programs to help Alaska Natives with everything from education to job training to drug and alcohol addiction to child and family services.

“Wherever people can engage and make a choice in life to connect to their potential, that’s an environment we try to foster at CITC,” O’Neill

said. “Seeing others grow to their potential brings the brightest light to my heart. That’s what motivates me.”

O’Neill, 41, was born in Soldotna and split her time growing up between that community and Bristol Bay. Her father was a commercial fishermen who grew up in Levelock on the Kvichak River.

“I spent my winters in Soldotna and my summers in Bristol Bay,” said O’Neill, who worked on the slime line in the Bristol Bay canneries and as a deckhand on her father’s fishing boat.

After graduating from high school in Soldotna, O’Neill spent her freshman year of college at Clarion University in Pennsylvania before transferring to the University of Please see KEYNOTE, Page 13

Sunday, October 17, 2010

13

Alaska Federation of Natives Convention 2010

Native peoples of Alaska

KEYNOTE: O’Neill Authority, Chanlyut Inc. and the National CASA (Court Alaska Anchorage, where Appointed Special Advoshe majored in sociology and cate) Association. In 2004, minored in business. It was she received the Woman of while going to UAA in 1991 Achievement award from Britthat O’Neill first started ish Petroleum and Anchorage working for CITC as a sumYMCA. mer youth employment counOn the national level, selor.

O’Neill serves on the National “It gave me a lot of opporTribal Budget Advisory Countunity to check what I wanted cil of the Bureau of Indian to do with my life,” O’Neill Affairs, and on the American said. “I always had a pull to Indian, Alaska Native on work on behalf of issues that Race and Ethnicity Advisory impact the Native commuCommittee of the U.S. Census nity.”

Bureau.

O’Neill was just 28 when O’Neill is married and has she took over as president and a 16-year-old daughter.

CEO of CITC in 1998. Under While the theme of this her guidance, CITC’s budget year’s AFN convention is “Vilhas grown from $8 million to lage Survival,” O’Neill said, $45 million and the number of Natives across Alaska must support programs offered by band together as one if they the organization has doubled want their culture to survive from 25 to 50. and flourish. The AFN conAn AFN board member, vention fosters that kind of O’Neill also sits on the boards environment, she said. of the Anchorage Museum, “I think the power of AFN Anchorage Community Land is truly in the gathering of Trust, Cook Inlet Housing the convention,” O’Neill said.

Courtesy of the AFN

Continued from Page 12

Inupiaq The Inupiaq people are still a hunting and gathering society. They continue to subsist on the land and the sea of north and northwest Alaska hunting whale, walrus, seal, polar bear and caribou.

Athabascan The traditional homeland of the Athabascan people lies in the vast Interior of Alaska.

Giant forests of birch, spruce Dan Gair/Blind Dog Photo, Inc. and cottonwood trees domiGloria O’Neill keynote speaknate the landscape. The land er for the 2010 AFN confer- is rich with moose, birds and ence in Fairbanks other wild game. There are 11 linguistic groups.

“I think it’s a place where we blend individual knowledge into greater wisdom and we blend individual voice into a greater voice. That’s the power of AFN.”

Yup’ik/Cup’ik

The Yup’ik people believe that the land is the giver of life. The Yup’ik live in the harsh environment of the Yukon and Kuskokwim deltas in Southwest Alaska.

Contact staff writer Tim Mowry at Yup’ik people still depend 459-7587.

on subsistence fishing, hunting and gathering.

Alutiiq The Alutiiq traditionally inhabit Kodiak Island off the Southcentral mainland.

The Aleut and Alutiiq people encountered the Russians in the late 18th century, long before any other Alaska Native groups, consequently, these groups have been heavily influenced by the Russians, adopting elements of their language, food and religion.

Tlingit/Eyak/ Haida/Tsimshian The region from the Copper River Delta to the Alaska Panhandle is temperate rain forest. The Tlingit, Eyak, Haida and Tsimshian peoples share a common Southeast coast culture, but maintain distinct language and clan systems.

The people depend on water for food and travel.

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18372623-10-17-10AFN

Working with Tribes, honoring sovereignty and creating careers and opportunities for tribal members since 1946.

14

Alaska Federation of Natives Convention 2010

Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

Broadcast Can’t attend AFN? TV, radio, Internet technology bring events to you

By REBA LEAN rlean@newsminer.com

also be available by web-streaming on firstalaskans.org and nativefederation. org.

Airplane tickets and hotel costs and Blueberry Productions’ Jeff Silvergetting lost in the big city can all be man will be producing the broadcasts deterrents from attending this year’s at both the convention and Elders Elders and Youth Conference and and Youth Conference. He makes the Alaska Federation of Natives Conven- broadcasts available online and feels tion. But many people don’t really that people back home really appreciwant to miss out on the festivities ate it — especially Quyana Nights. or wisdom to be gleaned during the “People love the Quyana — the week. dance performances,” he said. “They Well, there are ways to soak up the don’t want to miss it.” atmosphere without really being there When watching on the Internet, a — especially if people have Internet, window with the broadcast will pop radio or television access. up, and on the side of the window will There will be live television coverbe a forum for viewers. People across age broadcast throughout the week the world can communicate with one available on GCI Channel 1, 360 another while watching what’s going North and Alaska Rural Communica- on in Fairbanks.

“You’d be surprised what they’re tions Service. The same coverage will

doing in the middle of the night,” Silverman said, referring to viewers from places like New Zealand. He expects the forum to be well attended, especially with the attention Alaska’s politics is receiving.

Joaqlin Estus will be attending the convention to broadcast the event via radio. The KNBA station will be plugged into the audio at the Carlson Center for clear listening. They will broadcast AFN from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Thursday and Friday, with a lunch break from noon to 1:30 p.m. On Saturday they will broadcast from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m., depending on how long the conference goes.

Antonia Gonzales will broadcast the Elders and Youth Conference for KNBA earlier in the week.

According to Loren Dixon of

KNBA, other stations throughout the state can pick up the KNBA signal.

At least 17 other stations including ones in Kotzebue, Nome, Bethel and Dillingham will broadcast all or some of the coverage. All public radios have free access to the feed.

KNBA offers five-minute language modules of the convention coverage in Inupiaq, Yupik, Athabascan Gwichin and Athabascan Koyukon.

“It’s been a fantastic service,” Dixon said. He said there have been many success stories.

With all the options for live coverage, anyone listening or watching should feel like they have a front row seat.

Contact reporter Reba Lean at 459-7523.

Sunday, October 17, 2010

Alaska Federation of Natives Convention 2010

15

Fairbanks How a gold rush town found its roots

By MOLLY RETTIG mrettig@newsminer.com Fairbanks exists because of gold, but derives its character from the people, businesses and branches of government that have flocked to the remote city over the past century.

Today it is home to the University of Alaska Fairbanks (the oldest college in Alaska), two U.S. military bases, government agencies,

resource developers, major tourism outfits, lovers of the outdoors and more.

The boom town started in 1901, when trader E.T. Barnette was cruising up the Tanana River to establish a trading post and got stuck in the shallows upstream from the Chena River. Soon after, Italian immigrant and prospector Felix Pedro discovered gold just a few miles away.

Barnette decided to start a town, which he named Fairbanks after a prominent Indi-

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ana senator and future vice president.

While there was no Alaska Native settlement in the immediate area, Athabascans had traveled through the land for thousands of years, hunting and fishing on the Tanana and Chena rivers.

By 1910, nearly $30 million in gold had been mined from creeks in Cleary, Ester and Fairbanks. But the growth had only begun. The Alaska Railroad was laid down in the 1920s, enabling large-scale

Eric Engman/News-Miner

The three-dimensional and painted backdrop seem to become one in the life-sized diorama displays on exhibit at the Morris Thompson Cultural and Visitors Center. mining by delivering coal to Fairbanks that could power giant floating gold dredges.

The Fairbanks Exploration Co. built power lines, mining camps and an industrial

complex that dominated the economy until World War II. The military arrived in the years leading up to World Please see FAIRBANKS, Page 16

Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

Alaska Federation of Natives Convention 2010

Public safety paramount for local officials

FAIRBANKS: Interior Continued from Page 15

When oil was discovered in Prudhoe Bay, sparking the War II, when a test station for construction of the transtraining pilots and mechanics Alaska pipeline in the midwas built in 1937. During the 1970s, thousands of construcwar, Fairbanks became the tion workers and others seektransfer point for nearly 8,000 ing new opportunities moved aircraft that were picked up to Fairbanks.

by Russian pilots under the Today, nearly 32,000 people Lend-Lease Act. live within Fairbanks city limAlaska became the 49th its and an estimated 97,000 state in 1959, to the delight of residents who wanted a voice people in the Fairbanks North in Congress and the status of Star Borough, which takes up 7,361 square miles. a state. After statehood, the The city is the regional long-neglected issue of Alaska hub for Interior Alaska and Native land rights surfaced. the second-largest city in the The Alaska Federation of state.

Natives formed, and groups from across the state began It is a hub for winter to negotiate land claims. The sports, including the 1,000Alaska Native Claims Settlemile Yukon Quest Internament Act was approved in tional Sled Dog Race. In 2010, 1971, which yielded 44 milthe Yukon Quest will start in lion acres of land, 13 regional Fairbanks on February 6. The corporations, more than 200 race alternates its starting village corporations and a and finishing points each year payment of $962.5 million. between Fairbanks, Alaska Doyon, Ltd. and Tanana and Whitehorse, Yukon.

Chiefs Conference are headContact staff writer Molly Rettig at quartered in Fairbanks.

459-7590.

Staff report newsroom@newsminer.com

Sam Harrel/News-Miner

Visitors stream into the Morris Thompson Cultural and Visitors Center on Aug. 12, 2008, during the dedication and blessing of the new building.

Fairbanks police will be ready for anything during this year’s Alaska Federation of Natives convention.

Fairbanks Police Chief Laren Zager said the department has not allowed officers to take time off during this year’s convention and that extra patrols will be available as needed.

While police are not expecting any major issues, they have contingency plans in place in case of events ranging from protests to poor weather, Zager said. Police were also instrumental in planning for this year’s convention.

“We kind of get excited about it,” he said.

“There’s a lot of neat things happening this year, and we feel pretty ready for this.”

Meanwhile, the Community Service Patrol is not planning any extra patrols for the festivities.

The non-emergency number for Fairbanks police is (907) 459-6500, while Alaska State Troopers in Fairbanks can be contacted at (907) 451-5100.

WELCOMES THE

Alaska Federation of Natives to Fairbanks and to the Museum Come see the Butterfly Pavilion in the Museum of the North Café: Get up close to learn about the behavior of a variety of North American butterflies.

In the Special Exhibits Gallery through December 31, 2010: Then & Now: The Changing Arctic Landscape

Special Admission Rate for AFN Delegates and Convention Participants Adults & Youth (7-17): $5 • Children (6 and under): Free Please show your registration badge at the admissions desk and ask for the AFN group rate.

Museum Hours Weekdays: 9 AM – 5 PM • Saturdays 9 AM – 5 PM The Butterfly Pavilion is proudly supported by the Fairbanks Daily News-Miner, Flint Hills Resources Alaska, Totem Ocean Trailer Express, Wells Fargo, Nadine Winters, Kiewit Building Group Inc., Fairbanks Memorial Hospital/Denali Center, Rotary Club of Fairbanks, and Mike and Sharon Cook. In-kind plant donation by Georgeson Botanical Garden.

An AA/EO employer and educational institution.

21371863-10-17-10AFN

16

Sunday, October 17, 2010

Alaska Federation of Natives Convention 2010

17

Morris Thompson Alaskans from across the state helped bring cultural center to life

By SUZANNA CALDWELL scaldwell@newsminer.com

mer AFN President Sam Kito to Willie Hensley — were instrumental in finding fundIn 2007, the Morris Thomp- ing and support. For many, son Cultural and Visitors cen- it wasn’t just about building ter was mostly a patch of dirt something to represent inte— and a whole lot of dream. rior cultures; it was a way But today it’s a dream that to honor their friend, Morris has come to fruition.

Thompson. Thompson was The center was built to a former president of Doyon promote Interior cultures. But, Ltd. and commissioner of the without the help of Alaska Bureau of Indian Affairs. He Federation of Natives memdied in a plane crash in 2000. bers and Alaska Native lead“We worked based on the ers from across the state, the type of person Morris was,” building wouldn’t have been Shumaker said. “And framed it possible, said Project Director around his work, his interests, Cindy Shumaker. his lifestyle.”

When AFN was last in FairMany leaders — from for-

banks in 2007, they held a special fundraiser called a blanket ceremony. After an introduction, audience members were asked come down and place money on a blanket. Shumaker wasn’t sure if people would come forward, so she suggested placing a few individuals in the audience who would start the giving. She needn’t have worried, she said.

“There was an amazing output of support,” she said.

She said that people from the audience donated with everything from small bills to large checks.

The building opened in

Eric Engman/News-Miner

spring 2008. Shumaker said it has become an appropriate legacy for Thompson, reflecting the history of the people, culture and economy of the Interior.

The building is now a onestop center for those looking for information on the Interior.

It’s home to a free exhibit gallery, the Alaska Public Lands Information Center, the Fairbanks Convention and Visitors Bureau and Tanana Chiefs Conference Cultural Programs, among others.

Shumaker said that the center will be “crazy busy” during AFN. It will host numerous meetings and events during the week. While the main exhibit showcasing the Interior is finished, not all of the building is.

But people can now see that the center is more than just a vision.

“They can see the dream — for a cultural center in Fairbanks — is now a reality,” Shumaker said.

18

Alaska Federation of Natives Convention 2010

Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

Helping out Volunteers are an integral part of AFN convention week

By REBA LEAN rlean@newsminer.com

Golden Heart GreetBehind the scenes of one of Alaska’s biggest productions — the First ers make up the largAlaskans Elders and Youth Conference and Alaska Federation of Natives est percentage of AFN Convention — are those who make sure all the pieces of the puzzle are in volunteers. They are the place. They hold up the pillars so the whole roof doesn’t tumble down. They ones that can be spotted are the volunteers.

Golden Heart Greeters make up all over in their yellow the largest percentage of AFN volunteers. They are the ones that can be vests. spotted all over in their yellow vests — at the airport, welcoming people to the convention, setting up and tearing down between events and filling in training for the week to “know your just about everywhere else. own backyard,” so they would be Greeters were encouraged in their

able to answer questions from visitors unfamiliar with the area. With 4,000 or so people coming for the week, there are bound to be questions.

Fairbanks Convention and Visitors Bureau’s Karen Lane wanted to make sure those 4,000 get a warm welcome.

Usually the convention’s small-citysized population meets in Anchorage, where there are more facilities and accommodations.

“We need to make up for that with our hospitality,” Lane said to volunteers.

In preparation, the Fairbanks Convention and Visitors Bureau also gave cross-cultural training sessions to volunteers. The training sessions taught some Golden Heart Greeters and other community members tips about talking with people whose first

language might not be English.

On top of the greeters, there are also volunteers from Tanana Chiefs Conference, Alyeska Pipeline Service Co. and Fort Wainwright expected.

“We rely on volunteers,” said Erin Fogg, AFN spokeswoman. “We really, really need them.”

Volunteers are what make everything tick. They help with conversions of the Carlson Center and Big Dipper Ice Arena. They help stuff bags and prepare pins and notebooks. This year, there is room for at least 200 volunteers to make the convention work, and Lane expected early this month that every spot would be filled.

Contact reporter Reba Lean at 459-7523.

Sunday, October 17, 2010

Alaska Federation of Natives Convention 2010

19

Joe and Kathleen Miller and family warmly welcome the delegates to Fairbanks for the 2010 Alaska Federation of Natives Conference AFN DELEGATES: Please join Joe Miller at a Host Luncheon to learn more about his views Friday, October 22, 2010 • 11:30 a.m.-2:00 p.m.

Fairbanks Curling Club • 1962 2nd Avenue • Next to Carlson Center GET THE FACTS @ www.JoeMiller.us “Joe Miller is a proven leader who believes in restoring our rights as Alaska Native Veterans. We stand together in support of U.S. Senate candidate Joe Miller.”

– Chris Kiana; Harold Rudolph “End of Earmarks, is that a bad thing? It’s really a thing of the past. We need to gain our pride and self respect back, eliminate our dependency on the government, develop our natural resources, train our people and create jobs. Nobody gave anything to our grandparents, why should we expect something for nothing!! WE’RE PRO LIFE, PRO FAMILY, PRO RURAL DEVELOPMENT AND PRO JOE!! Honored to associate our names with JOE MILLER!!!!”

– Dale and Cynthia Erickson, Tanana, Alaska “My grandparents taught me to believe in God, work hard, importance of family, respect my elders, respect education, honesty and integrity, respect for military service, love for my country, and love for the land. Because Joe Miller reflects my values I support and will vote for him as my US Senator.”

– Nellie Karmun “It’s clear that Joe has worked and earned his way to get where he’s at. Nobody gave it to him.

Working people can relate to that. Alaskans need jobs not government welfare programs. Access to our lands and developement of our resources is the key to job opportunities and our children’s future.

Pushing back the federal regulators will take leaders like Joe Miller. Our villages are starving on Washington DC Pork.”

– Jack Irwin, Fairbanks “We are children born of the government. We live in homes given to us, food provided on our table, and warmth over our heads, and we want MORE!! We look for a bail out, more pork to feed our children. We have given our children food for a day, and not taught them to fish for a lifetime. We need to develop our resources, create jobs, throw out the pork, and put real food on the table; for the future of our children. Enough is enough!! I believe Joe Miller is a positive change in the right direction for Alaska! He’s got my vote!! “ – Ginger DeLima, Ruby, Alaska 13376137-10-17-10AFN

Vote Joe Miller!

Paid for by Joe Miller for US Senate PO Box 72838, Fairbanks, AK 99707 www.joemiller.us

20

Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

Alaska Federation of Natives Convention 2010

Transportation How to get from point A to B in Fairbanks during AFN week

By REBA LEAN rlean@newsminer.com

provide four shuttle vans that will travel from 12 major hotels to the conference daily. The vans will also proFor people from Alaska remote cor- vide rides to the play “Winter Bear,” ners, getting to Fairbanks this week the community potlatch, arts and for the Alaska Federation of Natives crafts sessions and Quyana Nights. convention is one thing. Getting The shuttles are free. around Fairbanks is quite another.

This year, the community downRental cars answer the needs of sized to vans rather than buses, to some people, but other options offer provide better mobility and a closercheaper solutions. knit feel, according to Fairbanks ConBuses, shuttles and taxis can carry vention and Visitors Bureau’s Helen convention attendees to and from con- Renfrew. The shuttles are a “suppleferences and hotels, and everywhere ment for folks who don’t get rental in between. cars,” Renfrew said.

The community of Fairbanks will Bill Northrup, manager of Eagle

Cab in Fairbanks, said his company’s fleet is big enough to accommodate the week’s demand. However, he will add extra drivers.

“When AFN comes along, they seem to come out of the woodwork,” he said.

Even though all cabs will operate, his company won’t be the only one bustling. When the convention breaks for lunch and other events, everybody wants a cab at the same time.

“All the cab businesses are going to be busy,” he said. “There’s going to be some waiting.”

Eagle Cab is leasing one of their

vans to be a free shuttle for the convention. Northrup said a few other companies were doing the same thing to help out the visitor industry.

Fairbanks North Star Borough’s MACS transit system will provide free bus rides for registered AFN delegates. For a ride, people will be asked to present their badges. The Yellow route travels downtown and to the Carlson Center regularly. All bus routes will stay the same during the convention. Schedules can be found inside buses and at the downtown bus transit station. See the map on Pages 36-37.

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Alaska Federation of Natives Convention 2010

21

Quyana 20 groups to perform traditional dances

By SUZANNA CALDWELL scaldwell@newsminer.com Native dance groups from northern and interior Alaska will have a chance to show off their skills at this year’s Quyana dance celebration during the Alaska Federation of Natives convention in Fairbanks.

Marie Mead, who has coordinated the dance program since the early ’90s, said 20 groups signed up this year. Their performances will

cover two days.

The number of groups participating during the past decade has increased significantly, Mead said. The first Quyana was in 1982 and it has been a conference highlight ever since. The program was designed to restore traditional dances and ensure that they were passed on to future generations.

A few decades ago, Mead said, many village people had stopped dancing. For example, during her child-

Eric Engman/News-Miner

Nine-year-old Aaron Topkok performs with the rest of the Pavva Inupiat Dancers of Fairbanks at the Alaska Federation of Natives Elders and Youth Conference on Oct. 23, 2007. hood in the Yupik village of Nunapitchuk, near Bethel, no dance groups performed.

Now, she said, dance groups can be found at almost every high school in rural Alaska, and they’re all embraced by the community.

“They’re starting to embrace that culture,” she said. “We’re realizing that we can’t afford to lose that culture.”

The Quyana has become more than just dancing; it’s a time for people to come

WELCOME TO FAIRBANKS, AFN DELEGATES I look forward to spending time with you at the Convention this year and discussing issues important to all Alaskans.

Stop by the campaign office at 505 Old Steese Highway, Suite 124, in the Cornerstone Mall while you’re in town and have a cup of coffee and a doughnut! Call 451-6875 for more information or questions.

Your vote counts – NOW MORE THAN EVER. Let’s make history!

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together.

“It’s a time to celebrate, to reconnect, to support, to applaud,” she said.

Since AFN does not cover transportation costs for the Please see QYANA, Page 22

22

Alaska Federation of Natives Convention 2010

Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

QUYANA Continued from Page 21

groups, the convention’s location can affect which groups attend, according to Mead.

This year, some groups from Southcentral and Southeast couldn’t make the costly trip to Fairbanks.

Most groups participating are either from the Interior or northern Alaska, she said.

For example, groups attending this year include those from Wainwright, Anaktuvuk Pass, Minto and Galena, among several others.

Qyana begins at 7 p.m. on Oct. 21 and 22 at the Carlson Center. Tickets are $10.

James Barker photos

Contact features writer Suzanna Caldwell at 459-7504.

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Alaska Federation of Natives Convention 2010

Arts and Crafts Fair showcases one-of-a-kind wares

By MARY BETH SMETZER msmetzer@newsminer.com More than 100 Alaska Native artisans from all regions of the state will be selling their handmade wares at the Alaska Native Arts and Crafts Fair held in conjunction with the Alaska Federation of Natives annual convention.

The Arts and Crafts Fair will run all three days of the convention at the Carlson Center and is open to the public.

The annual fair is an

unique opportunity to purchase top quality Native arts and crafts, more often than not from the item’s maker, as well as witness a host of artisans at work. In short, it is a shopping experience unlike any other.

For more than 30 years, AFN has brought together Alaska Native artisans as well as lower 48 American Indian friends to showcase and sell their artwork.

If time allows, artisan sellers are more than willing to share a short history on the properties of materials used,

and/or the inspiration or traditional usage.

Between customers, many of the crafts people will resume working on their specialty, and answer questions to curious spectators. Hence free demonstrations often are the norm for beading, fur sewing, carving, polishing, weaving, etc.

The annual convention craft show is billed as the largest Native arts and crafts show in the state and the most diversified.

Many of the artists and crafts people travel from

Eric Engman/News-Miner

Two dolls made by Ursula Paniyak of Chevak depict best friends picking berries are seen during the arts and crafts fair at the 2007 Alaska Federation of Natives Convention. remote communities for the annual AFN fair which is the primary outlet for their work.

According to Nicole James, AFN show coordinator, the artisans’ offerings will rep-

resent all different cultures and a wide variety of artwork styles.

Shoppers can expect to find the creative work of five Please see CRAFTS, Page 24

Success

“A place where good thinking and working together would happen.”

discovered.

Chief Peter John describing the hill where the University of Alaska Fairbanks now stands.

CHANGE IS GOOD! Our name may have changed but our QUALITY programs, SUPPORTIVE student services & DEDICATED faculty & staff remain the same!

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welcomes the Alaska Federation of Natives Convention to Fairbanks.

24

Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

Alaska Federation of Natives Convention 2010

CRAFTS: Unique Continued from Page 23

John Wagner/News-Miner

Juneau-based artist Doug Chilton, left, laughs with Roberta Miller as he explains the Tlingit double eagle design on the silver bracelet Miller bought from him at the 2007 Alaska Federation of Natives Convention arts and crafts fair at the Carlson Center.

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ing up with extended family members and old friends. distinct Native cultures, some “A lot of them say (sellnot usually found in local gift ing at the fair) helps them shops or galleries. out financially in the winter The wide selection will months, and it’s also a chance include ivory carving, fur hats for them to socialize and and ruffs, sealskin and moose catch up with friends from all skin slippers, silver, copper over Alaska,” James said. and beaded jewelry, baleen When reservations are baskets, dolls, woven grass being taken for tables at the and birch bark baskets, bead- fair, James said, artisans work, trade beads, ceremonial often make special requests to masks, ceremonial regalia, sit next to specific people.

Eskimo kuspuks, yo-yos, and “Usually they are old more, including some unusual friends, and they help each traditional items such as Sele- other out when they need na Alexander’s bead-trimmed to go away from the table,” bags fashioned from moose James said. “There definitely bladders and moose hearts. is a lot of teamwork with The last time the AFN other artists going on.” was in Fairbanks, James said, The Arts and Crafts Fair the arts and crafts event was will be held Thursday, Oct. especially enjoyed by the arti- 21, and Friday, Oct. 22, from sans many who look forward 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.; and on Satto not only selling a year’s urday, Oct. 23, from 8 a.m. to worth of work but also meet4 p.m.

Sunday, October 17, 2010

25

Alaska Federation of Natives Convention 2010

Perspective ‘Village Survival!’ photo exhibit all about your point of view

By GLENN BURNSILVER gburnsilver@newsminer.com When it comes to village survival, it’s all a matter of perspective. And that’s exactly what the organizers of the Alaska Federation of Natives’ inaugural “Village Survival!” photo exhibit were hoping to see in the photos submitted by Native people in villages and cities across the state.

“Looking at this exhibit, we thought we’d give people a way to see what village survival means to

Alaska Native Knowledge Network

them,” explained AFN spokesperson Erin Fogg. “We were looking for ways that are not only inherent to village survival, but also the real beauty that goes along with these people, whether urban or rural, and what they experience every day.”

The 120 photos depict the most obvious aspects of village survival, such as hunting, fishing, berry picking and other aspects of subsistence living. But photos also captured people dancing, playing basketball in the snow, World Eskimo-Indian Olympic training, beautiful parkas,

UAF programs like the Alaska Native Knowledge Network share information about Alaska’s Native peoples with others of all ages and backgrounds.

sunsets, churches, family and relationships, children (lots of children) and other aspects of life that go beyond subsistence, yet are equally as important to survival.

“When you look at this year’s convention theme, Village Survival, it seems so simple. But as you start to think about it more you start to realize there is so much more inherent in that idea of village survival,” Fogg said.

“There is cultural survival, linguistic survival, subsistence — physical survival that’s part of subsis-

tence — and emotional survival. The really cool thing to me is that we also saw people thinking of it that way.”

The idea for the exhibit, which is free and can be viewed on the Carlson Center’s second floor concourse, came up rather late in the overall AFN planning process, Fogg said.

“We just said ‘Wow, how cool would it be to have people participate in this way and have their visions incorporated in the convenPlease see PHOTO, Page 26

The Fairbanks community is invited to the following events during the Alaska Federation of Natives Convention:

Quyana (Thank You)

Nights Quyana I, October 21 Quyana II, October 22 7pm-11pm, Carlson Center Photo by James Barker (AFN)

Alaska Native dancers, drummers and singers perform.

Tickets on sale now.

For ticket information visit www.carlson-center.com or call (907) 451-7800. $10 per person

Alaska Native Arts and Crafts Fair Alaska’s First Peoples

Alaska’s First University

www.ankn.uaf.edu

10373033-10-17-10AFN

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October 21-22, 8am-7pm & October 23, 8am-4pm Carlson Center Over 100 artisans from all over Alaska will be showcasing and selling their finest work.

Free Admission Photo courtesy of Doyon, Limited

UAF is an AA/EO employer and educational institution.

26

Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

Alaska Federation of Natives Convention 2010

PHOTO: Cameras capture life in rural Alaska, by Alaskans Continued from Page 25

tion?” she said, adding that a call for photos was placed on the AFN website, press

releases went out to some villages and word of mouth carried the request.

Still, she was surprised

by the rapid and strong response.

“We had a pretty short timeframe for people to turn

Est. 1923

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Welcome, AFN Delegates, to Fairbanks!

this around, so we were pretty excited to see all the response,” she said. “We didn’t know what to expect.

We could have received five photos or 500.”

Fogg noted to that despite Alaska’s vast size and many geological differences, the many actions depicted in the photos show a kinship that reaches across physical distance.

“You’re not only seeing what’s different about this vast area that is Alaska, but a lot of things that are the same,” she said. “The natural environment might be a little different, but many of the activities are similar.”

Fogg said the hope is that the exhibit can travel beyond the convention via composite

posters of the images. These posters could be hung in village libraries, stores, schools and town halls.

“We imagine this could grow into something much bigger for people to share among themselves,” she said.

And there is next year’s convention. With these posters and more time, Fogg said, she expects an even greater turnout.

“The camera is such a powerful tool for people to be able to show what their experience is,” she said.

“And that diversity of images — the visions of what village survival means to them — is really special.”

Contact features editor Glenn BurnSilver at 459-7510.

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Alaska Federation of Natives Convention 2010

Elders & youth Conference spans generations to foster understanding, wisdom

By MOLLY RETTIG mrettig@newsminer.com This year’s Elders and Youth Conference starts on Sunday and kicks off a week full of Alaska Native culture in Fairbanks.

The conference, part of the Alaska Federation of Natives Convention, dates back to 1984, when 54 Alaska Native high school students convened to address issues unique to them. Four years later, elders from across Alaska followed suit to form the first AFN

Elders Conference. The two groups merged in 1993 and the Elders and Youth Conference was born.

Today the conference draws more than 1,000 participants from villages and cities to foster the transmission of wisdom and leadership from elders to young people — between 13 and 18 years old. It runs the same week as the AFN convention and covers many of the same subjects. They talk about land, values, Please see CONFERENCE, Page 28

John Wagner/ News-Miner

Bert Boyer, CANHR’s acting director, will speak to the Alaska Federation of Natives at 1:30 p.m., Friday, Oct. 22.

Gulliver’s Books welcomes AFN and all its participants to Fairbanks!

We can help you with all your book needs, no matter where you are.

We welcome bush orders! $2.50 flat shipping fee!

Call us toll free: 800-390-8999 New and Used 1-800-390-8999 • www.gullivers-books.com • 474-9574 • 3525 College Road (near University Ave.)

Alaska’s First Peoples

UAF programs like the Center for Alaska Native Health Research are building relationships and research-based knowledge to improve Alaska Native health.

Alaska’s First University

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UAF is an AA/EO employer and educational institution. Photo courtesy of CANHR, UAF.

from the

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28

Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

Alaska Federation of Natives Convention 2010

CONFERENCE Continued from Page 27

John Wagner/News-Miner

Bessie Hausmann, second from right, motions her group’s willingness to present their findings after a group brainstorming activity as part of a youth workshop in 2007.

recording the Native names of places, kinships that lived language, drugs and alcohol, there and the types of subsiseducation and other topics tence activities that took place affecting Native communithere. ties. The conference includes “It gives you a feeling of speakers, panels and cultural belonging to know where your performances. Participants family comes from,” Jones represent all five Alaska said.

Native cultural groups.

In her speech, she will This year’s theme is “Indiencourage youth to mine this genize it! Culture. Language. information from elders, a Identity.” To keynote speaker practice that has faded fast Eliza Jones, an Athabascan among Alaska Native comelder, that means elders and munities. youth communicating.

“The kids are going in dif“That’s what my presentation is going to be, just giving ferent ways, so we need to tips on how to work together,” refocus all the attention,” she said. she said.

The Elders and Youth ConJones is a linguist who published the Koyukon Atha- ference is run by the First Alaskans Institute. Fairbanks bascan Dictionary in 2000.

She has traveled to many last hosted the conference in villages along the Yukon 2005.

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Sunday, October 17, 2010

29

Alaska Federation of Natives Convention 2010

Elder of the Year Chercasen has been active in Aleut community for decades

By SUZANNA CALDWELL scaldwell@newsminer.com Larry Chercasen said he was overwhelmed to be selected as the Aleut Corp.’s Elder of the Year. Many others were deserving, he said.

But Chercasen’s long involvement in the Aleut community of the Pacific Northwest made him also deserving of the award. A former Pacific Northwest Aleut Council president, Chercasen has been active in the organization for about 12 years and active in the community for longer than that.

Chercasen, who retired as an assistant

Alex Chercasen

Rural Alaska Honors Institute

maintenance superintendent of highways in Washington state in 1995, has been especially active in helping the Aleut community, entertaining people with music in nursing and retirement homes and serving as an Alaska Federation of Natives delegate.

He also has been able to share his culture and experiences with young Aleuts in the community.

Born in the Aleutian village of Nikolski, Chercasen was one of hundreds of Aleuts placed in internment camps by the U.S. government in 1942. Many were taken from their rocky, coastal lands and moved to the camps in woody and wet

Southeast Alaska.

He was 7 years old when he was taken from his small community 100 miles west of Dutch Harbor and placed in a camp in Ketchikan. For three years, he and his family lived there. Chercasen said his memories are a little blacked out, but he remembers it “being a rough time.” It caused them to completely change their day-to-day life.

“Daylight was 250 feet straight up,” he said.

Medical access was also limited in Ketchikan, and the transition from the wideopen islands of the Aleutians to the close Please see CHERCASEN, Page 31

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Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

Alaska Federation of Natives Convention 2010

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Alaska Federation of Natives Convention 2010

CHERCASEN: Mentors important to learn, he said. For the first 13 years of his life, though, it quarters in Southeast helped was his primary language. diseases like tuberculosis to “All my relatives spoke it,” proliferate. he said. “It’s in my DNA.” Chercasen lost four cousins He praised The Aleut Corp. from 1942-45. After that, he for working to teach the lanand his family returned to guage through culture camps.

Nikolski.

“They encourage people to Chercasen, a 1952 gradustudy the language,” he said. ate of Mt. Edgecumbe High “They do quite a bit for it.”

School, moved to Vancouver, Chercasen is active in his Wash., a few years after gradu- church and teaches Aleut culating and has remained there ture. In 2001, shortly after the ever since. He has been active Sept. 11 attacks, he was one of in Aleut issues in the Pacific 11 other people asked by the Northwest and is fluent in the city of Vancouver to deliver a Aleut language. He said that prayer in Aleut. the council, which consists of He also has been a particiof eight board members, has pant in the Alaska Federation about 500 people who particiof Natives for many years. pate in events.

He attends the conference to He said that he wasn’t sure see what is happening in the how many people still speak Alaska community.

Aleut. The language is difficult He thinks it’s important Continued from Page 29

James Barker photo

that young people have strong

“It’s important to know were you’re from to know where you’re going.” mentors. He thinks that by knowing the traditional ways they will be less likely to have problems with things like drugs and alcohol.

“It’s important to know were you’re from to know where you’re going,” he said.

“We’ve got to give them a base to start.”

Contact features writer Suzanna Caldwell at 459-7504.

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32

Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

Alaska Federation of Natives Convention 2010

Alaska Native Languages

Athabascan-Eyak-Tlingit: Inupiaq Gwich’in

Siberian Yupik

Han Tanana Tanacross

Koyukon

Holikachuk Upper Deg Hit’an Kuskokwim

Bering Sea Eskimo-Aleut:

Central Yup’ik

Aleut Alutiiq Central Yup’ik Naukanski Yupik Siberian Yupik Sirenikski Inupiaq

Upper Ahtna Tanana

Tlingit Eyak Ahtna Tanaina Deg Hit’an Holikachuck Upper Kuskokwim Koyukon Tanana Tanacross Upper Tanana Han Gwich’in

Tanaina

Haida Eyak

Tsimshian

G

Alutiiq

ul

fo

la fA

ska

Tlingit Tsimshian Haida

Aleut For more information go to http://www.uaf.edu/anlc/languages.html

Tanana Chiefs Conference Chief Andrew Isaac Health Center welcomes the 2010 AFN Convention to Fairbanks!

The following is helpful information for the AFN Delegates in case medical attention is required.

Non–Emergencies after clinic hours If you are unsure if your illness or injury is considered a Medical Emergency or if it occurs after TCC Health Services clinics are closed, please contact our Providence Triage Phone Nurse by dialing 1-800-478-6682 The Triage Nurse will evaluate your situation, recommend an appropriate care plan and answer any questions you may have.

Medical Emergency If you are having a Medical Emergency — please call 911 or go to the FMH Emergency Room located at 1650 Cowles Street.

Hours of Operation for CAIHC Monday, Tuesday & Thursday, 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Wednesday, 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Weekend Clinic Hours Saturday & Sunday, 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Pharmacy Hours of Operation Monday – Thursday – 8:15 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.

Friday – 8:15 to 4:30 p.m.

Closed for Lunch 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. Monday Friday Contact us at: 1408 19th Avenue (907) 451-6682 or 1-800-478-6682

11375414-10-17-10AFN

Unlike other regions in Alaska, the Interior does not have a tribally owned hospital and emergency room. Emergency Room services are provided by Fairbanks Memorial Hospital a non-tribal facility and paid for by Contract Health Services if all eligibility criteria are met. Non–emergent services and services that are available at TCC Health Services are not paid through TCC-CHS when rendered outside the tribal health system.

In other words–If you visit a non-tribal health care provider for non-emergent conditions– that visit can not be paid through TCC-CHS. What to do if you get sick or injured while in Fairbanks and the clinic is closed?

Sunday, October 17, 2010

33

Alaska Federation of Natives Convention 2010

What we speak Center aims to document, revitalize Alaska’s native languages

By MARY BETH SMETZER msmetzer@newsminer.com

The Alaska Native Language Center at the University of Alaska Fairbanks was established by the Legislature in 1972 to study and document Alaska’s 20 endangered Native languages and to support bilingual and community revitalization language programs. The work since then has been unceasing.

Over the years the center’s goals have expanded to the extent that today it is considered the major center and repository in the United States for the study of Eskimo and northern Athabascan languages.

The center boasts the largest and most comprehensive archival col-

All of Alaska’s Native languages are threatened with extinction in some way.

lection in the world of everything written in or about Alaska Native languages as well as more than 5,000 audio and video recordings.

According to center director Lawrence Kaplan, all of Alaska’s Native

languages are threatened with extinction in some way.

“Their continuation will be assured by people speaking and using them, writing and singing,” he said. “Whatever use the people put the language to is good.”

The center supports school programs with teacher training and material development and partners with community language programs to support revitalization efforts with the guidance of elders and teachers.

“We respond to community needs and work with communities in what they are interested in,” Kaplan said.

Alaska Native languages are taught on the UAF campus. Language center staff teach Siberian Yupik, Alutiiq, Aleut, Tlingit, and several Athabascan

languages on demand.

The center’s staff also teach linguistic and education classes at UAF and conduct workshops for teachers on campus and through distance delivery and locally around the state.

Much of the center’s research is available through a variety of language center publications, which include language dictionaries, grammars, story collections and narratives, maps and learning aids.

To request a catalog, call (907) 4747874 or e-mail rfschumacher@alaska. edu. A list of works in print can be had at http:anlc.uaf.edu/pubs/catalog.

Language center staff members will be at the AFN convention and have a table with a selection of the center’s publications for sale.

The Fairbanks North Star Borough welcomes you to Fairbanks.

17373109-10-17-10AFN

We’re so glad to celebrate with you again!

34

Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

Alaska Federation of Natives Convention 2010

Common expressions in Alaska Native languages Aleut

Gwich’in Athabascan

Alutiiq

hello ...................................... aang goodbye .................................. ukudigada thank you............................... qagaasakung Happy holiday. ....................... Kamgan Ukudigaa

hello (how are you?) .............. neenjit dôonch’yàa? thank you............................... mahsi’ welcome ................................. nakhwal’in shoo ih?ii my friend.......................shijyaa

hello ....................................... cama’i thank you............................... quyanaa

Haida hello (how are you?) .............. sán uu dáng giidang? thank you............................... háw’aa

Central Yup’ik hello (good to see you) .......... cama-i hi! what’s up? ........................ waqaa goodbye .................................. piura thank you............................... quyana welcomequyana .................... tailuci Merry Christmas ................... Alussistuaqegcikici how are you?.......................... cangacit?

Siberian Yupik how are you?.......................... natesiin? goodbye (I’ll see you) ............ esghaghlleqamken thank you............................... igamsiqanaghhalek welcome (thank you all for coming) .........................................quyanaghhalek tagilusi Merry Christmas.........Quyanaghhalek Kuusmemi

Inupiaq goodbye .................................. tautugniaqmigikpin thank you............................... quyanaq welcome ................................. qaimarutin Merry Christmas...................Nayaangamik piqagin hello, how are you? ............... qanuq itpich?

Hän Athabascan thank you.......................mahsi’ our friends.......................nijaa

Tsimshian thank you............................... way dankoo

Koyukon Athabascan

Tlingit hello (how are you?) .............. wa.é ák.wé? thank you............................... gunalchéesh Merry Christmas ................... Xristos Khuwdziti

hello.......................dzaanh nezoonh thank you.......................baasee’ welcome.......................enaa neenyo good luck friend.......................gganaa’

Tanana Athabascan

Eyak

hello (how are you?).......................do’eent’aa? thank you.......................maasee’ his friend.......................betlanh

thank you............................... ’awa’ahdah

Ahtna Athabascan thank you............................... tsin’aen Merry Christmas ................... C’ehwggelnen Dzaen my friend ............................... slatsiin

Deg Hit’an Athabascan thank you............................... dogedinh my friend ............................... sits’ida’on

Tanaina Athabascan thank you.......................chin’an my friend.......................shida

Tanacross Athabascan thank you.......................tsin’e e —From Alaska Native Language Center Web site — www. uaf.edu/anlc/expressions.html

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Sunday, October 17, 2010

Alaska Federation of Natives Convention 2010

Mission statement The Alaska Federation of Natives (AFN) is the largest statewide Native organization in Alaska. Its membership includes 178 villages (both federally-recognized tribes and village corporations), 13 regional Native corporations and 12 regional nonprofit and tribal consortiums that contract and run federal and state programs.

AFN is governed by a 37-member Board, which is elected by its membership at the annual convention held each October. The mission of AFN is to enhance and promote the cultural, economic and political voice of the entire Alaska Native community.

Alaska Native people began as members of full sovereign nations and continue to enjoy a unique political relationship with the federal government. We will survive and prosper as distinct ethnic and cultural groups and will participate fully as members of the overall society. The mission of AFN is to enhance and promote the cultural, economic and political voice of the entire Alaska Native community.

AFN’s major goals are to: * Advocate for Alaska Native people, their governments and organizations, with respect to federal, state and local laws; * Foster and encourage preservation of Alaska Native cultures; * Promote understanding of the economic needs of Alaska Natives and encourage development consistent with those needs; * Protect, retain and enhance all lands owned by Alaska Natives and their organizations; and * Promote and advocate for programs and systems which instill pride and confidence in individual Alaska Natives.

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35

36

Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

Doyon, Limited

N11 Morris Thompson Center

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Downtown Shoppers Forum Pioneer Park Carlson Center Fred Meyer West UAF Aurora Railroad depot Wedgewood Fred Meyer East

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Sunday, October 17, 2010

Alaska Bird Observatory Alaska Bird Observatory

Fairbanks Police Department For emergencies, dial

911 Da nb yS t

Public safety information center 459-1173 and 459-1185 24 hours a day during the convention

Safeway Plaza

Old Navy, Pet Stuff, Barnes & Noble, Sports Auth.

Denali Center

mation: 451-1801 DeeDee Hammond/News-Miner

38

Alaska Federation of Natives Convention 2010

Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

Eric Engman /News-Miner

AFN co-chairs Tim Towarak, left, and state Sen. Albert Kookesh, right, work together as Gov. Sarah Palin, back center, waits to speak to the audience during the Alaska Federation of Natives Convention on Oct. 25, 2007, at the Carlson Center.

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Alaska Federation of Natives Convention 2010

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AFN Board * Georgianna Lincoln, Doyon, Limited * Gloria O’Neill, Cook Inlet Tribal Council * Greg, Razo, Cook Inlet Region, Inc. • Julie Kitka, President * Herman Kingnak, Sr., Arctic Slope Native Associa* Albert Kookesh, Co-Chair of the Board, Sealaska tion Corporation * Jason Bourdukofsky, Aleut Villages * Andrew Teuber, Kodiak Area Native Association * Jerry Isaac, Tanana Chiefs Conference * Bert Adams, Northwest Villages * Joseph Chythlook, Bristol Bay Native Corporation * Bertha Franulovich, Southeast Villages * Ken Johns, Ahtna, Inc. * Brenda Rebne, Ahtna Villages * Loretta Bullard, Kawerak, Inc. * Christopher Gene, Copper River Native Associa* Marie Greene, NANA Regional Corporation, Inc. tion * Myron Naneng, Association of Village Council * Dimitri Philemonof, Aleutian/Pribilof Islands AsPresidents sociation * Nancy Barnes, Chugach Villages * Edward Thomas, Central Council of the Tlingit & * Orville Huntington, Interior Villages Haida Indian Tribes of Alaska * Rosita Worl, Sealaska Corporation * Felix Hess, Calista Corporation * Sheri Buretta, Chugach Alaska Corporation * Fenton Rexford, Arctic Slope Villages * Stephanie Thompson, CIRI Villages * Francis Norman, Chugachmiut * Steve Ivanoff, Bering Straits Villages * Fred Christensen, Kodiak Villages * Tara Sweeney, Arctic Slope Regional Corporation * Gail Schubert, Bering Straits Native Corporation AFN is governed by a 37-member Board, which is elected by its membership at the annual convention held each October.

* Ted Angasan, Bristol Bay Native Association * Thomas Mack, The Aleut Corporation * Tim Towarak, Co-Chair of the Board, Bering Straits Native Corporation * Tom Tilden, Bristol Bay Villages * Will Anderson, Koniag, Inc. * Willie Kasayulie, Yukon-Kuskokwim Delta Villages

Contact Us The Alaska Federation of Natives 1577 C Street, Suite 300 Anchorage, AK 99501 Phone 907.274.3611 Fax 907.276.7989 Email AFNInfo@NativeFederation.org

Wednesday, October 20, 2010 • 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Big Dipper Arena • 1920 Lathrop Street

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Alaska Federation of Natives Convention 2010

Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

Athabascan

words of the week

The Athabascan word of the week are provided by Susan “K’etsoo” Paskvan of Yukon-Koyukuk School District. She is originally from the village of Koyukuk on the Yukon River in Interior Alaska. She is Tleeyegge Hut’aane, which is Koyukon Athabascan.

She seeks stories and phrases from both Denaakk’e (Koyukon Athabascan) and Denak’a (Lower Tanana Athabascan), which are languages spoken in the Yukon-Koyukuk School District region. Yukon-Koyukuk School District serves the villages of Allakaket, Hughes, Huslia, Koyukuk, Nulato, Kaltag, Ruby, Manley Hot Springs and Minto. The Board of Education places a priority on teaching the Native languages within the district.

Some examples are shown in the pages that follow.

Selina Alexander made bags out of moose bladder, left, and moose heart, above. The bags were traditionally used to carry food or small items. The bags are on display at Doyon, Limited headquarters in Fairbanks.

The Community and City of North Pole Proudly Welcome the Delegates to the Alaska Federation of Natives 2010 Convention 16376157-10-17-10AFN

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Alaska Federation of Natives Convention 2010

Culture week The Ella B. Vernetti School in Koyukuk hosted a On Friday, Sept. 24, 91 students and staff across the Culture Week September 20-24, 2010. Students learned district participated in a Healthy Lifestyles run. This how to make dry meat from deneege ledle’ (moose fore was the final event after five weeks of cross country arm); make porcupine balls from ground meat; cut fish running. with Eliza Jones; bake bread; hear Tobaan Etseh “Crying on the Beach”, a traditional story; and take a nature hike up to Meneelghaadze.

Phrases from the culture week and cross country running: Photo by Susan Paskvan.

Detseege kk’e hoolaanh. ..................................There are moose calf tracks.

Deyozee kk’e hoolaanh. ...................................There are cow moose tracks.

Deneege nelaan est’o?. .....................................I am cutting moose meat.

GegeggUyhtl. ....................................................I am running.

Keel ees k’ee?ughe ghelggUyhtl. .....................The boy is running fast.

Denaanodoneyhtl deneege tloole’ et’o?.

Ashley Williams is cutting moose tongue.

Ashley Williams’ Denaakk’e name is Denaanodoneyhtl, which means ‘allaround helper’ because she likes to help people. Ashley said “I cut meat all day. I didn’t even play today.”

THE CITY OF FAIRBANKS WELCOMES The AFN Delegates to the Golden Heart City.

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Alaska Federation of Natives Convention 2010

Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

Extended learning Students at the Yukon-Koyukuk School District have had the opportunity to participate in several extended learning activities the last month.

In April seven students participated in the CloseUp program in Washington, DC. Students met with Sens. Lisa Murkowski and Mark Begich and staff from Rep. Don Young’s office.

Jimmy Huntington High School student, Barbie S. asked both senators about their stand on oil development in the Alaska National Wildlife Refuge and non-Alaskan hunters.

Andrew K. Demoski High School student, Gabriel P., asked Sen.Begich about what he is doing about off-shore bycatch of salmon. He then raised his hand and presented Sen. Begich with some king salmon strips.

Mr. Begich, said “That is not a question, that is a statement.”

This was the first time out of state for four of the students, so they learned how to take the Metro in D.C. during rush hour and greeted everyone with a smile and hello.

Phrases: yoonaane...................................outside of Alaska Yoonaan Denaak’edoyone’ .......President of the United States

Phrases:

In May six high school students participated in a Welding Academy in Nulato and eight in a Construction Academy in Minto. Students learned the safety skills, ten hours of Occupational Safety and Health Administration training, employability skills, and received hands-on instruction in welding, carpentry, and electrical skills.

Kohler, Schmitt & Hutchison, PC would like to welcome back the annual AFN Convention to our beautiful “Golden Heart City”.

Visit the University of Alaska Fairbanks School of Management table during the Elders & Youth Opportunities Expo!

We wish you a successful convention and hope you enjoy all the different amenities that Fairbanks has to offer.

Certified Public Accountants 714 4th Ave, Ste. 303 456-6676

Welcome AFN Delegates!

The Northern Leadership Center The Northern Leadership Center (NLC) embedded within the School of Management at UAF is dedicated to cultivating leadership among UAF students, community members, and Alaska Native groups by focusing on community engagement activities, leadership development programs, leadership research, and leadership policy. Every year the NLC hosts a Summer Leadership Institute for high school juniors and seniors which allows them to network with peers and develop leadership skills.

Neighborhood bar with neighborhood prices Pull Tabs • Award Winning Service

Steese & Trainor Gate • 456-6777

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UAF is an AA/EO employer and educational institution

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Degrees offered: Accounting - BBA Business Administration - BBA, MBA Economics - BA, BBA, MS Emergency Management - BEM Find out about the award-winning Native Alaska Business Leaders student organization.

Enter a scholarship drawing for the 2011 NLC Summer Leadership Institute.

This year the NLC and its sponsors are providing full and partial scholarships. At AFN 2010, NLC will be awarding additional scholarships.

Stop by our booth for more information.

The verb root den means to be skilled. k’eełdenenh ...............(noun) carpenter Welder UhUdeldeeh. .......................He is learning to use a welder.

Tl’eegho hUdaalden ent’aa nUghUnenh. ............ This man was remarkably skillful.

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Alaska Federation of Natives Convention 2010

Alaskaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Regional Corporations under ANCSA

Arctic Slope Regional Corp.

NANA Regional Corp.

Doyon Ltd.

Bering Straits Native Corp.

Calista Corp.

Cook Inlet Ahtna Inc. .Region Inc. Bristol Bay Native Corp.

Chugach Alaska Corp.

The Aleut Corp.

Sealaska Corp.

Koniag Inc.

Achieving great things for our community The Alaska Federation of Natives Convention and the First Alaskans Institute Elders & Youth Conference symbolize a legacy of strength, identity and heritage in our community. What is shared today will last for generations.

We proudly celebrate the great achievements of the Alaska Native people. wellsfargo.com

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Alaska Federation of Natives Convention 2010

Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

Where is Dad? Here is a photo of my dad, Benedict Jones, of Koyukuk holding a tl’eghes (burbot, loche) that he caught in his net. He set the net under the ice across the point, on the island

where the Koyukuk River enters the Yukon River. He said that he is still catching dog salmon, even though it is late in the year.

Bishop Donald J. Kettler and the Diocese of Fairbanks welcomes Elders, youth and delegates to Fairbanks to the 2010 Alaska Federation of Natives Conference.

Eetaa’e hodee? ............................ Where is Dad? Taameeł no’eenaadle’aan’. ........ He went to check the fishnet Taak’etlkooł. ............................... He/she has a fishnet in.

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Eetaa’ daahet’aanh?................... What Are Dad and them doing?

Kkun’ ghU kk’oheedeneeyh. ..... They are working on wood. tl’eghes........................................ loche, burbot ledlaaghe ..................................... sheefish noolaaghe .................................... dog salmon

In the mood for the best?

RE

FIN

SA LAD BAR

STAURANT

SEAFOOD

PR I ME RIB

E DINING

D ES SE R T

Welcome to Fairbanks AFN Conference Attendees!

It’s our pleasure to serve you.

Turtle Club

10 mile Old Steese Highway Fox, Alaska alaskanturtle.com

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK: Mon.-Sat. 6-10 • Sun. 5-9

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The

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Alaska Federation of Natives Convention 2010

HONOR • RESPECT • TRADITION • WELLNESS • TEACHING • HERITAGE

E

lders Shape Our Lives MATRONA JAVIER

MARGARET STEVENS-CARROLL

Mom, Thank you for all you have done for all of us over the years.

May God Bless you daily. Love, Patricia Carroll, Brenda Carroll, Dorothy Carroll, Deborah Hardy, Margaret Clark, Bonnie CarrollGinnis, Ernie Dear

Congratulations to BBNC 2010 Elder of the Year Matrona Javier of Dillingham! From Bristol Bay Native Corporation Board and Staff

IDA ROSS

We honor you for opening your home and church to everyone; for teaching the youth tradition and culture throughout Alaska.

In Memory of PAUL STARR

September 16,1939 June 17, 2010 Tanana, Alaska

CHRISTOPHER GUNDERSEN A long time resident of Sanak, Alaska was born in 1914. He owned and operated his own grocery/ liquor store and cows.

Friends say he is a great father, brother, fisherman and hunter.

There is never a dull moment around this family man.

In Memory of

ALFRED STARR, SR.

ELIZABETH (EVAN) STARR

Nenana, Alaska

Nenana, Alaska

Honoring Our Father

Honoring Our Mother

SARAH EVAK

In loving memory of our mother Sarah Evak. Well done, good and faithful servant. You’re now with your Savior forever.

In honor and memory of our founding Chiefs Front Row: Back Row:

CHIEF ALEXANDER of Tolovana, CHIEF THOMAS of Nenana, CHIEF EVAN of Koschakat, CHIEF ALEXANDER WILLIAM of

CHIEF WILLIAM of Tanana, PAUL WILLIAMS of Tanana, CHIEF CHARLIE of Minto

Tanana

Traditional Chief DONALD HONEA, SR. of Ruby 2nd Traditional Chief TRIMBLE GILBERT of Arctic Village Elder Advisor RICHARD FRANK of Minto

The World Eskimo Indian Olympics would like to express our deepest appreciation to all the elders that have participated in WEIO throughout the years. Your dedication and endless contributions have made it possible for all people to experience the heartbeat of Alaskan culture through the various traditional dances and cultural events.

Your continued guidance and support are greatly appreciated!

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Thank You

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–TANANA CHIEFS CONFERENCE –

19371869-10-17-10AFN ELDER PAGES

In Memory of

Rev. Traditional Chief DR. DAVID SALMON of Chalkyitsik 2nd Traditional Chief FRANKLIN MADROS of Kaltag Traditional Chief PETER JOHN of Minto Traditional Chief ANDREW ISAAC of Dot Lake/Tanacross

In honor of our founders: A. E. "Bud" Hagberg Bill English Frank Whaley Howard Rock Tom Richards Sr.

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Alaska Federation of Natives Convention 2010

Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

HONOR • RESPECT • TRADITION • WELLNESS • TEACHING • HERITAGE

E

lders Shape Our Lives The College of Rural and Community Development University of Alaska Fairbanks wishes to recognize our

Wisdom Bearers Forty-eight exemplary Alaska Natives who have been awarded Honorary Doctorates throughout the University of Alaska system since 1968.

Reverend Dr. Walter Soboleff (1968) Dr. Archie Demmert (1970) Dr. Frank Peratrovich (1973) Dr. Howard Rock (1974) Dr. Frank Degnan (1975) Dr. Nora Guinn (1978) Dr. Alfred Widmark (1979) Chief Dr. Andrew Isaac (1979) Dr. William Hensley (1980) Dr. Cyrus Peck, Sr. (1980) Dr. Mildred Sparks (1981) Dr. Emily Ivanoff Brown (1982) Dr. Della Keats (1983) Dr. Byron Mallott (1984) Dr. Joseph Kahklen (1985, not pictured) Dr. Mary Demientieff (1986) Dr. Harold Kaveolook (1987, not pictured) Dr. Sadie Brower Neakok (1987) Dr. Nathan Paul Jackson (1988) Dr. Sidney Huntington (1989) Dr. Austin Hammond, Sr. (1989) Dr. Eliza Jones (1990) Dr. Roy Huhndorf (1991) Dr. Delores Churchill (1991) Dr. Frank See (1991) Dr. Gilbert Truitt (1992) Dr. Mary Jane Fate (1992) Chief Dr. Peter John (1994) Dr. Esther Shea (1994) Dr. Howard Luke (1996) Dr. Ellen Hope Hays (1996) Dr. Katherine Peter (1999) Dr. Poldine Carlo (2001) Dr. Nora Dauenhauer (2001) Dr. Ethel Lund (2001) Reverend Chief Dr. David Salmon (2002) Dr. Kenneth Toovak (2003) Dr. Alfred Ketzler, Sr. (2004) Dr. Erma Lawrence (2004) Dr. Julie Kitka (2004) Dr. Jake Lestenkof (2005) Dr. John Pingayak (2006) Dr. Catherine Attla (2007) Dr. Herman Kitka, Sr. (2009, not pictured) Dr. Annie Cungauyar Blue (2009) Dr. Marlene Johnson (2009) Dr. Kangrilbnuq Paul John (2010) Dr. Oliver Leavitt (2010)

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HONOR • RESPECT • TRADITION • WELLNESS • TEACHING • HERITAGE

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lders Shape Our Lives

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Alaska Federation of Natives Convention 2010

Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

HONOR • RESPECT • TRADITION • WELLNESS • TEACHING • HERITAGE

E In Memory of

HELEN PETERS

MAGGIE NICHOLIA & JOSEPHINE ROBERTS

PAULINE M. PETER NULATO, AK

TANANA

“Chief” Dad, Thank you for all that you do for us!

We love and appreciate you.

The Honea Kids

RITA ALEXANDER

We all love and miss you very much. Anna Baasee’ for every moment of your life.

Love, your family & friends

You’ll always be living treasures to your children and grandchildren. You’ve inspired us to carry on your legacy! Quyana Cak’neq

Enaa Baasee' Setsoo Helen Peters!

Sek'eggeenhee', eenaa, setsoo, sebaats'e, hedok' uhde''l eeghenh eenlaanh.

Noochu loghoyet hut'aane kk'aa dent'aa.

Tanana is lucky to have these two wonderful grandmas loving and caring for us so long. We love you.

Enaa maasee’ to our: mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, friend…for all that you do - all your love, support, and guidance you have provided over the years. Debaa soo’ Denahuto’ hoozoonh ts’e neneeLaanh!

In Memory of EFFIE KOKRINE

Great-grandmother, Always busy with your yarn, happy for visitors, making yummy fish icecream.-Ray & Jade, Kate & Ev, Paxton

It is hard to believe that it has been almost ten years. You will never be forgotten!

We miss you!

UNCLE ROY FOLGER TANANA

STEVE & VALERIE MATTHEW

Thank you for willingly sharing your cultural knowledge and your continuing support to the children of Andy and Effie Kokrine

Thank you Grandpa and Grandma Matthew for taking us to fish camp.

We love you very much.

Love your grandchildren.

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To Our GrandparentsThanks for all your stories, patience, teaching us, & kindness. We love you!

Ray & Jade

DON HONEA, SR

MIKE ARNANCUAQ & SUSIE ULIIGAQ ANGAIAK

VIRGINIA JOHNSTON

SOPHIE & HENRY BEATUS

lders Shape Our Lives

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Alaska Federation of Natives Convention 2010

Sled dog racing Sled dogs are still a part of life in rural Alaska.

Yoodots’e łeekkaa ghedeł. ............................There’s a dog team coming from downriver.

Yooneets’e łeekkaa ghedeł. ..........................There’s a dog team coming from upriver.

Yoonots’e łeekkaa ghedeł .............................There’s a dog team coming from across the river. Łeekkaa kk’o’eelaa.......................................He/she is driving dogs. Łeekkaa yeł taadleggok................................He/she raced in a sprint race.

Photo by Thelma Nicholai

Grandmas Martha Oldman, Madeline Williams and Celia Beetus watch the races from inside a tent at the Valentines Day race in Hughes.

HONOR • RESPECT • TRADITION • WELLNESS • TEACHING • HERITAGE

E

lders Shape Our Lives In Memory of FLORA PANIYAK NEWLIN & EVANS AVLII KARMUN

Both of Deering, led a subsistence lifestyle, honored their elders, passed down their traditions, work ethics and cultural values.

LARRY CHERCASEN 2010 ALEUT CORPORATION ELDER OF THE YEAR

In recognition for being honored at the Aleut Corporation 38th Annual Meeting of Shareholders for exemplifying the highest of values and qualities important to the Aleut people.

PETE MELLICK

DORCAS & JAMES SEARS

Dorcas L. Sears Jan. 21, 1945 – Mar. 10, 1988 James D. Sears July 21, 1935 – July 14, 2003 We miss you!

In Memory of LILLY PITKA

Your words of wisdom teaching us traditions, language, and culture will not be forgotten. Your teachings will be with us forever.

Mimi is an awesome person. She has 7 grandchildren and teaches sixth grade! She takes care of grandpa. She does lots of chores around the house, but always has time to play. She is supportive.

Mimi is an excellent mentor. She spends a lot of time organizing for others and is very helpful. Love, Jacob and Tony.

STEVE GINNIS

Pete is the respected, sincere, strong and inspirational Tribal leader of the Holitna-Mid Kuskokwim River Region.

FNA PRESIDENT

CHIEF ROBERT CHARLIE

Thank you for all the hard work you do for our people. God bless you.

Your sister Margaret

Founder of CHEI, which preserves/ teaches Athabascan culture, 83 year old Chief Charlie continues his visionary work at UAF’s Geophysical Institute for UNITE US, bridging the gap between Indigenous & Western instruction.

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The Daily News-Miner is proud to dedicate these pages to all the Elders who enrich our lives with their traditions and knowledge

BARBARA SPERL

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Alaska Federation of Natives Convention 2010

Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

Trapping Robyn and William Chaney’s boys, Dillon and Triston are actively trapping with their father.

If they are lucky, they have to take care of their cawtch: bringing it home, treating the animal respectfully, skinning it, and stretching the fur. They make their own rabbit, fox, and lynx snares with the father (Ata) and grandfather (Appa).

They are responsible for checking their snares every dayafter school. baaluqtaq kaviak

beaver fox

The boys are still trapping rabbits and going ice fishing.

It’s their Grandma’s (maarulut) birthday tomorrow (aniiqanutiq irpanun).

Photos by Robyn Chaney

Above, Triston Chaney, Bob Nicholson and Dillon Chaney show their beaver and fox furs.

At left, the boys stretch beaver pelts.

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Alaska Federation of Natives Convention 2010

Beaver camp Yoo’oote hedaadletl’ee.

They are staying at camp.

Noye’e ghU haał heldlo.

They are trapping beaver.

Angela told this story aabout the photo: Sidney came home from trapping and caught 14 beaver. He had to take out the table to make room on the floor to work. That is why they are all on the bed — no room.

Daughters Betty and Agnes said they remembered this about living at the cabin: Betty: “One is that bed, it was actually raised up off the floor and was the only bed and everybody slept on it. It was like a big shelf and toward the back and fit from one end of the house to the other. Mom, Dad & little kids were on the one end, the rest of the kids were on the other.

“The ‘mattresses’ were all caribou skins, blankets were homemade down blankets and the feathers poked you sometimes. And you never took off

your ski pants and fur boots. (My ski pants I remember was homemade and I think the suspenders were always tied on.) Seems like if we were not outdoors, we were on the bed either watching what was going on and I’m sure playing, eating or sleeping wasn’t room for anything else.

“I later asked Mom and she was surprised I even remembered it.

Under the bed was like storage but, I don’t think there was much to store, because everything and everybody came in the sled. Roger and Carl probably walked on snow shoes at least part of the way as I remember trying once trying to keep up with Carl and having to get in the sled that was heaped with kids and gear.

Thinking about it now, it must have been like a puzzle putting everything and us in the sled for travel. Wish there was a picture of that.”

Agnes: “We were crowded but I don’t recall feeling so - I use to like

Photo by Pat Keller

Sidney and Angela Huntington’s family at beaver camp. On the bed: Angela holding Gilbert, Tommy, Betty, and Agnes. In front: Roger, Carl, Sidney.

getting under the bed, probably for some semblance of privacy. I mostly recall being outside sliding and piling in the sleigh to check the traps. In that small cabin, we piled on the bed while the beaver was skinned then (Probably just me) stretching the skin.

I think I was 7 when we last stayed

there. Life was sure different.”

Pat and Connie Keller sent their collection of photos to the people of Huslia. They lived there in the late 1950s and early 1960s as Episcopal missionaries. The stories that are surfacing about life in Huslia are absolutely fascinating.

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Alaska Federation of Natives Convention 2010

Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

Potlatch

By SARAH SILAS

Ellen, making the casket, cooking, and teaching songs.

My family was able to attend the funeral I sat with grandma Sarah Silas during services for late grandma Ellen Frank. the give-away. She told me that when the Her Denaakk’a name was Sets’eelno, an food is out there, the kids are instructed to old name, who’s meaning is unknown. sit down. The men worked hard to provide Grandma Ellen was a wonderful teacher of the food on the table, so respect is shown by her language and culture. She will truly be being quiet and staying seated. This is also missed. true during the give away.

The night before the funeral the people of She said kids are instructed “Don’t run Minto danced Dzaahtaah Ch’eleech (mourn- around, sit down cause ing songs) for Grandma Ellen. These are ggaaleeye noghutdenaakh. Ggaaleeye is old old songs that have been passed down good spirit, that look for who to go to. for generations. After that was the dancing They used to say that when it go to one songs. side that is the side that the ggaaleeye go.

After the funeral, a food potlatch was Certain parts of this community hall held with traditional foods served, especially people will get more gifts than different delicacies like ttroth (wild potato) and ggooł parts. That’s where the ggaaleeye go, they (rhubarb). The family then gathered gifts say. They used to say it’s good luck.” to thank the people who provided the labors After the gifts are handed out everyone of love such as taking care of Grandma dances with their gift to the Ggaaleeye song.

George Yaska, Sr. made a sled. Varnishing the sled are Christopher Moses, George Yaska on runners, Steve Swatling and Willie Vent with Dolly Simon interviewing on video.

Sled making George Yaska, Sr. hUtl etltseenh. ................... George Yaska, Sr. made a sled.

UAF SCHOOL OF EDUCATION

George “Butch” Yaska Sr. visited the Jimmy Huntington School in Huslia to teach them about local Denaakk’e place names with students. As he was telling the students about the place names he included historical information about villages in the area.

The history included places abandoned due to a widespread flu epidemic in 1918, floods, and conflicts between bands.

Butch is well known for making oyh ‘snowshoes’ and hUtl ‘sleds’. The type of snowshoes that he makes now are used for short sprints, such as racing or walking on trails. The other type, which is wider and longer, is for traveling through deep snow.

He talked to the students about selecting the right kind of birch tree, bending the wood, putting it together, tying the knots, and taking care of your tools. Respect for your tools and work area are just as important as making the sled or snowshoes.

Preparing culturally responsive, effective practitioners.

Programs offered on campus and by distance delivery across the state.

Bachelor’s Elementary K-8 Licensure Elementary K-8 Secondary 7-12 Art K-12 Counseling K-8, 7-12 !

W Special Ed K-12 NE Aaron Mrks, 2004 Graduaate. Photo by Don Peterson.

Master’s Counseling Cross Cultural Curriculum & Instruction Elementary Language and Literacy Secondary !

W Special Education E N

UAF is an AA/EO employer and educational institution.

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www.uaf.edu/educ/ or contact us at (907) 474-7341

Sunday, October 17, 2010

Alaska Federation of Natives Convention 2010

Coming home Paul Mountain of Nulato.

Since leaving in 1982, I have finally returned to my home. I came back March 1, 2010 to help the tribe as Tribal Administrator.

I have to say, in reference to Thomas Wolfe, you can go home again. It’s great to be back in the real Alaska. I was in Seattle for 10 years, and I’m so happy to be back in the Interior.

Here are some words and phrases for the Koyukon word of the week., in the Lower dialect of Nulato and Kaltag.

Koyukon Athabascan language Tl’eeyegge hUkk’e ...............the real language, way Denaakkenaage’ ...................Our language Tl’eeyegge hUkk’e henaayh He speaks the real language. maahaa needeneyee or maahaandeney ................................................Indian knife (ulu), literally ‘what we work with’

mets’eghe hoolaan ...............dance dress, Lit. ‘it has a hood’ de’aak ....................................dress, shirt, vest, jacket Noolaaghe Doh .....................Nulato, Lit. ‘camp [before] the dog salmon’ Tlaakeeyeet ..........................point of the rock [bluff] k’ekk’onaałtoyh ne................(Social) Workers, Lit. ‘they take care of people’ Noolaaghe doh k’ekk’onaałtoyh ne mets’eghe hoolaan nehegheedaalyo dUhoono tlaakeyeet ts’en ggaaL heyegheet’otl maahaa needeneyee aahaa.

The tribal staff were wearing dance dresses while they cut king salmon at the point of the bluff with their Indian knives: Noolaaghe doh k’ekk’onaałtoyh ne ........Tribal staff: ‘those who take care of Nulato people

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Fishing Phrases: Taak’etlk’ooł.: -He / she has a fish net in. A fish net is set.

Taameeł ts’e notaałekkaanh.: -He/she went to check the fishnet.

Tenh t’oh taabeeł hono’elkooł.

-She is pulling a fish net out (from under the ice.)

K’oolkkoye deyeeldo.

-A pike got caught in the net.

They might catch the following types of fish: k’oolkkoye......................... pike ledlaaghe ........................... sheefish taaseze .............................. broad white fish noolaaghe .......................... dog salmon (only caught sometimes)

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Alaska Federation of Natives Convention 2010

Tanning moose skin Our family has been tanning a moose skin under the tutelage of Marie Yaska and Nancy Butler. We started during spring break in March. We first scraped all of the membranes (begooL) off of the stomach side of the skin.

After that we cut the hair off, then shaved it off. Then we let it hang outside all spring so it will wind dry and become sun bleached.

This week we pre-smoked the skin with rotten cottonwood. This prevents the skin from being slimy. The next step is to soak it in the tanning solution.

After this we scrape the water out. It soaks for two more days in the solution then we scrape it again. We wring it out then scrape it again. We all stretch it to break the fibers down, then rub it.

If anyone is interested in learning how to tan, send an email to spaskvan@ yksd.com.

COUPON

COUPON

COUPON

Nancy Butler, Conrad Jones, Marie Yaska, Jason and Adam Paskvan stretching the moose skin to break down the fibers.

Here are some phrases for tanning a moose skin: deneege le? ......................................moose skin taagedle ...........................................moose brain tlaabaas ...........................................ulu, semi-circular knife Haa aahaa bets’eneyh. ...................Rub oil on the skin.

Betonok’ets’enghee?tlugh. .............We are scraping the water out.

Ts’eeten?ts’uyh?. ............................We are stretching it.

Ts’eeyes. ..........................................We are rubbing it.

Selo’ ebaa. .......................................My hands ache.

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Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

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Sunday, October 17, 2010

55

Alaska Federation of Natives Convention 2010

FLY NOW AND SAVE UP TO 50% LATER. An exclusive offer for Alaska residents.

It’s PFD Sale time again and this year Alaska Airlines has taken the sale to a whole new level. Not only will you find fantastic deals with our PFD

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* All fares are one way and do not require round-trip purchase. See below for travel requirements, other restrictions, and the fees and taxes that are not included in the above fares.

N alaskaair.com

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* PFD Fare Sale Information: Valid From: Fairbanks (FAI). Travel to Hawaii must be on the nonstop flight from Anchorage (ANC). Purchase By: 10/23/10. Travel Between: 10/7/10 and 8/18/11. Day/Time Availability: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday. Exception: Travel to/from Mexico and Hawaii is permitted daily, although service may not operate daily. See service exceptions for details on travel to Honolulu, Maui and Sun Valley. Advance Purchase: 14 days. Exceptions: No advance purchase needed for travel to/from Mexico and Hawaii. Blackout Dates: To Alaska: 11/28/10–12/2/10, 12/26/10–1/5/11, 3/10/11–3/15/11. From Alaska: 11/18/10–11/21/10, 11/24/10, 12/14/10– 12/24/10, 3/2/11–3/7/11. Service Exceptions: Travel must be nonstop between Anchorage (ANC) and Honolulu (HNL) and is valid between 10/7/10–12/15/10 and 3/16/11–6/9/11. Flights between Anchorage (ANC) and Honolulu (HNL) operate Friday, Saturday, Sunday between 10/7/10–11/4/10 and 5/2/11–6/9/11. Travel is daily other dates. Travel must be nonstop between Anchorage (ANC) and Maui (OGG) and is valid between 11/8/10–12/15/10 and 3/16/11–4/2/11. Flights between Anchorage (ANC) and Maui (OGG) operate Monday, Thursday and Saturday only. Travel to Sun Valley (SUN) is available between 12/18/10–3/20/11 and 6/5/11–8/18/11. Not Included In The Fares Shown: Fares do not include Airport Passenger Facility charges of up to $9 (amount depends on itinerary), Federal Segment Tax of $3.70 per segment (takeoff and landing), and September 11 Security Fee of $2.50 per enplanement. Additionally To Mexico: U.S. Immigration User Fee of $7, U.S. APHIS Fee of $5, U.S. International Transportation Tax of $16.10, Mexico International Departure Tax of up to $33, Mexico Tourism Tax of up to $24, Mexico Transportation Tax of 4% of the fare (all three fluctuate with dollar-peso exchange rate). Additional U.S. taxes may apply to itineraries involving a U.S. stopover of more than 12 hours duration. Additionally To Canada: U.S. Immigration User Fee of $7, U.S. APHIS Fee of $5, Canadian Airport Improvement Fee of up to $22 (varies by airport); Canadian Security Fee of $9 (fluctuates with exchange rate) and Canadian Goods and Services Tax (GST/HST) of less than $3. Other Important Information: Seats are limited and may not be available on all flights or all days. Some markets may not operate daily service. All taxes and fees shown are based on one-way travel and may be doubled if traveling round trip. Tickets are nonrefundable, but can be changed for a $75 fee when changes are made online at alaskaair.com ($100 when changes are made through our reservation call centers or ticket counters) and any applicable changes in fare. All fares, taxes and fees are in U.S. dollars and are subject to change without notice, and other restrictions apply. A ticket purchased at a Horizon Air or Alaska Airlines airport location or through one of our reservation call centers will cost $15 more per person than the advertised fare. Some flights may be operated by or in conjunction with Horizon Air or one of our alliance partners. Travel on Alaska flights 3200–3274 operated by PenAir or flights 4800–4999 operated by Era Aviation are not permitted. No travel to/from Prudhoe Bay. A $20 per bag charge will apply for up to three checked bags. Additional fees apply to check more than three bags or overweight or oversized items. See our checked baggage policy at alaskaair.com for more details. For travel solely within the state of Alaska, customers may check up to three bags free of charge.

Fly Now & Save Information: Registration by 10/23/10 is required in order to receive the discount code. Discount code is valid for one person for travel between 1/7/11 and 2/26/11. 10% Discount Code will be sent to the e-mail address listed in your Mileage Plan profile within 72 hours of registration. 20%, 30%, 40% or 50% Discount Codes will be sent around 12/15/10. You complete a qualifying segment every time you travel on those segments of your itinerary that are operated by Alaska Airlines to, from or within AK from 10/1/10–11/30/10 and have your travel credited to your Mileage Plan account. Residency and other eligibility rules apply. Promotion Terms and Conditions and Terms and Conditions applicable to discount code redemption are available at alaskaair.com.

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Alaska Federation of Natives Convention 2010

Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

Making a paddle Fish camp Chop, chop, chop went the axe as Bill Williams demonstrated how to make a boat paddle from a spruce tree. Using an axe and chainsaw, the axe took shape in a couple of hours.

This was one of the activities held during the Johnny Oldman School’s culture week, which was held at Bill and Madeline Williams fish camp, 20 miles downriver from Hughes.

Three of the boys were successful in getting their first moose during the camp.

They gave the kidneys and heart to their grandparents, as is the custom for a first moose. They watched then learned how to skin a moose with a skinning and jointing knives.

Additional activities included fishing, identifying plants, identifying cuts in butchering a moose, beading suncatchers, and evening storytelling around the campfire. A hilarious time was held by all when we played campfire games. It was pure joy to hear parents and kids laughing out loud.

Photo by Dianne Shirrell

Bill Williams tUgh’oye ełtsee. ...... Bill Williams is making a paddle.

Dekoye Keith Bifelt hedohudel’eeh. .......His grandchild Keith Bifelt is learning.

Along the Yukon River many families are busy cutting fish. In our family, my dad, Benedict Jones Sr., seines across from Koyukuk. If he is lucky, he will catch salmon that are Canadian-bound. They are silver, big and rich in oil. The Koyukuk bound salmon are smaller and not as rich. Also caught are jack kings, which are smaller.

Along with the kings, he catches chum salmon, which is cut for the dogs.

After my dad brings the fish to the cutting area in my parents’ back yard, my mom, sisters, Josie, Cindy, niece Charlene and ladies from Koyukuk all help in gutting, cleaning, filleting and cutting the fish into strips or k’eyoge’ laaghe (cut for half-dried fish).

My sister’s friend, Pat Madros, makes sure the tlaabaas (semi-circular knives, which is an ulu) are sharp and takes care of the smoke house wood, fire and poles.

Working together on fish is truly a blessing.

Here are some fishing terms: • ggaa? — king salmon • k’eyoge’ — half-dried salmon • nolt’olee — strips • k’enoyge’ — a fillet of salmon that is trimmed from the fillet so the k’eyoge’ laaghe (fish cut for k’eyoge’ won’t be too thick) • nots’ele — sun-dried fish (dog salmon)

Sunday, October 17, 2010

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Alaska Federation of Natives Convention 2010

Trapping marten k’olaalee ....... marten with four white paws. Considered to be good luck if you catch one.

Rodney Hildebrand II (7th grade) and Cameron Hildebrand (4th grade) of Koyukuk shared their adventures with me. They both live at the Last Chance homestead, which is located six miles downriver from Koyukuk on the Yukon River.

They drive their own snowmachine to and from school. Rodney said they sometimes see moose and wolves on the way to school. Earlier this year they saw a bull, a cow, and a calf.

After awhile the cow disappeared then the calf. The wolves must’ve gotten to them.

Rodney and Cameron learned how to go marten trapping from their dad, Rodney I. Cameron said they have three lines, two they walk and one they check on the snowmachine.

Cameron said it is a long walk.

They have to check them every two days.

So far, they caught 10 marten. One of them had four white socks. Grandma

Photo by Rodney Hildebrand I

Eliza Jones said that kind of marten is called “k’oleeyaa”, which means ‘good luck’.

Their dad taught them how to treat the animals with respect. They will save the money from the skins ‘sooge leL’ for a truck when he turns 16 years old.

Dalton Highway, photo by Meadow Bailey, DOT&PF

Above, Cameron and Rodney Hildebrand II of Koyukuk stand next to their pole set trap. The boys said the bait is hung from a willow at the end of the pole. The marten has to reach for it.

At left, Rodney Hildebrand II and Cameron Hildebrand with five marten (sooge) they recently caught.

Barrow Airport, photo by David A. Koester, DOT&PF

Keystone Canyon, photo by Mike Isaacs, DOT&PF

State of Alaska Department of Transportation & Public Facilities

Northern Region Transportation Forum Friday, October 22, 2010 • 8 a.m.– 4:30 p.m.

Fairbanks Princess Riverside Lodge • 4477 Pikeʼs Landing Road Complimentary luncheon featuring Tom Middendorf, DOWL HKM, speaking about the Western Alaska Access Study Event Schedule: • Future of Roads • Dust Control • The Evolution of a Project: The steps from planning to construction

FREE Registration! Online: http://dot.alaska.gov/nreg/forum/

Shuttles between the Princess Riverside Lodge and the Carlson Center provided by DOT&PF! Or call: 907-451-2388

Plan to attend this informative highway and aviation transportation forum!

14377021-10-17-10AFN

• Funding • Statewide Transportation Improvement Plan update • Airport Improvement Plan

Attending the Annual Alaska Federation of Natives Convention?

58

Alaska Federation of Natives Convention 2010

Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

Alaska Marketplace Courtesy Alaska Federation of Natives Remote rural Alaska has struggled for decades with challenging economic barriers. A host of different initiatives have attempted to help rural Alaskans overcome these barriers so that they are not forced to abandon their villages and migrate into Alaska’s urban areas.

The Alaska Marketplace is an innovative “ideas competition” that awards seed money and provides technical support to some of Rural Alaska’s most promising entrepreneurs, helping to fill the rural economic gap by funding new wage jobs that are critical to the survival of families living in remote rural Alaska.

Based on feedback AFN has received from the 63 previous winners of the Alaska Marketplace, it appears that 70 percent of them are still in business; 25 percent of the winners did not respond or provide an update; and only 5 percent (four total) indicated that they were no longer pursuing the business/idea they had entered into the competition.

Above and beyond the specific funding awarded to winners by the Alaska Marketplace, winners

Since 2006, our Alaska Marketplace winners have been handselected for their innovative offgrid business ideas to benefit rural communities in Alaska. have reported sizable amount of additional money they have been able to leverage for their projects, totaling millions of dollars.

A number of winners also touted the value of the Alaska Marketplace as an avenue that enabled them to share information and expertise with others.

For example, Raven Frog Fibers traveled from Sitka to Hoonah and taught 14 locals to spin yarn.

In return, those newly trained spinners can now produce supply that will generate revenue for them through the sale of their product to Raven Frog.

This is a perfect example of learning an art while learning a new skill and providing income to individuals in a rural community.

Since 2006, our Alaska Marketplace winners have been hand-selected for their innovative offgrid business ideas to benefit rural communities in Alaska. Each of their ideas demonstrates innovation, sustainability and profitability, revitalizing job creation, and exemplifies the strong cultural heritage of Native cultures in Alaska. With every successful Alaska Marketplace competition, we at AFN realize our goal of truly Investing in Alaska’s Best Ideas.

The Alaska Marketplace is a totally different kind of initiative -- one focused on providing opportunities to individuals who have a good idea and the genuine drive to make that idea a reality. We do not supply grants to non-profits or programs, we strive to support individual Alaskans, who in turn provide opportunities for economic growth and employment to other members of their rural communities.

Find out more about the competition by visiting the Alaska Marketplace website at www.alaskamarketplace.org, emailing info@AlaskaMarketplace.org or by calling 907-274-3611.

Free flu vaccination clinic at the 2010 annual Alaska Federation of Natives conference in Fairbanks.

When: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Thursday, Oct. 21 through Saturday, Oct. 23 (while supplies last) Where: The mezzanine level at Carlson Center.

The flu vaccination clinic is sponsored by:

40373204-10-17-10AFN

For more information, please contact 907-729-1972. See you there!

Sunday, October 17, 2010

AFN villages

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59

Alaska Federation of Natives Convention 2010

60

Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

Alaska Federation of Natives Convention 2010

Introducing the ‘Fab Lab’

where people can learn, experiment, develop and fabricate projects of their own design.

Fab Labs can be installed nearly anywhere and curUniversity of Illinois, and the rently operate in Europe, Lab is funded through a The Alaska Federation of grant from the National Sci- Champaign-Urbana Commu- India, Africa, the United Natives invites the public to States, Afghanistan and visit the first-in-Alaska “Fab ence Foundation and is being nity Fab Lab. approximately 45 other locaA Fab Lab is a “Fabricapresented in collaboration Lab” demonstration at the tions. The goal is to encourtion Laboratory,” a small2010 AFN Convention, Octo- with the Institute for Comscale workshop with an array age creativity as well as an puting in Humanities, Arts, ber 21-23 in Fairbanks. interest in architecture, art, of computer controlled tools and Social Science at the The AFN Convention Fab computing, design, engineering, mathematics, science, GO EACH SESS O T 0 and technical trades.

0 ION $50 Fab Labs are part of a web-based communication network that is unique and offers lab users an exciting and expanding window into digital fabrication, electronic arts, and entrepreneurial invention. Participants work $ in their own labs with the Monday, Tuesday & Wednesday SHEET network open and interact S with others who are also working in labs around the world. The upshot of this is Pull 92 that an inventor of any age Tabs #17 Friday it Perm • Non-S AS M working in a lab can ask the A R t m a S oking Area • Café •Fri & 634 5 world for advice, share ideas th Ave . m .

• 451-0433 and skills, and find inspirap 6 • • Open 7 Days A Week tion.

Welcome AFN $1000

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$750

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21371895-10-17-10AFN

“The Fab Lab demonstration will directly engage Native students in science and engineering,” said Julie Kitka, President of the Alaska Federation of Natives.

As part of the AFN demonstration Fab Lab, several students from Boston’s South End Technology Center Fab Lab will work collaboratively with students at the Effie Kokrine Charter School in Fairbanks on projects, illustrating how the worldwide network of Fab Lab bridges geography, culture, and age, while empowering creators to solve problems and have fun together.

AFN’s goal for the Fab Lab demonstration is to introduce its membership to potential applications of new technologies and to identify interested Fab Lab partners that would support and participate in deployment of Fab Labs to locations in Alaska.

Local. Stable. Ready to Lend.

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Sunday, October 17, 2010

Alaska Federation of Natives Convention 2010

RESPONSIBLE DEVELOPMENT Our people. Our land. Our companies.

Enriching our Native way of life.

£££Ê7°Ê£ÈÌ Ê Ûi Õi]Ê-Õ ÌiÊ{ää]Ê V À>}i]Ê Ê xä£ÊUÊ äÇ°ÓÇn°ÎÈäÓÊUÊÜÜÜ°LL V° iÌ

61

Alaska Federation of Natives Convention 2010

Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

We are proud to welcome the Alaska Federation of Natives Convention to our community.

We hope you enjoy your stay in the Golden Heart City!

200 North Cushman Street Fairbanks, Alaska

456-6661 www.newsminer.com

21371867-10-17-10AFN

62

Sunday, October 17, 2010

Camp combines culture, classroom learning

By MOLLY RETTIG mrettig@newsminer.com This story originally appeared July 20, 2010.

Welcome, AFN!

Wilson and Wilson CPAs (907) 456-8115 www.wwcpa.com

344 Minnie St. Fairbanks, AK 99701

is proud to be the host site for the

2010 AFN CONVENTION Welcome members and delegates.

We look forward to serving you!

21371854-10-17-10AFN

cation came from hands-on lessons with elders like Anna Frank, who helped students make frames and baskets out of birch bark and spruce twine.

Frank, who was the first Alaska Native woman to become an Episcopal priest, said she picked up these skills from watching her mom, grandmother and aunt when she was 6 years old. She participated in the program to pass the knowledge on to youths.

“They’re the torch bearers of all we’ve learned,” she said.

Carolyn Kozevnikoff will be a junior at Effie Kokrine this fall. Her favorite part about the program is the focus on college. Many young people from her hometown, Russian Mission, never go to college, she said.

“People graduate in villages, they’ll stay there doing nothing. I figured Upward Bound would help me go to college,” Kozevnikoff said.

While 90 percent of students are Alaska Native, the other youths benefit from the same values, said Ruerup.

Miranda Labrum, an incoming freshman at Effie Kokrine, is one of those.

“It makes you look at life a lot differently,” she said during a break between a talking circle and an Athabascan dance.

“I don’t get to do a lot of Native artwork and culture.”

Students began with one week at the Youth Elders Conference in Tanana, followed by three weeks at UAF filled with classroom sessions, where they earn one college credit. Then they took the riverboat to the Gaalee’ya camp.

Luke is an Athabascan elder who created the camp to host youths and other visitors, share Athabascan traditions and promote respect for the earth among young people.

“We all got problems. We all want to get it out or it gets bigger ‘til it explodes. I think that’s the problem with suicide and that stuff,” Luke said during a talking circle. “I want you to feel good about yourself and be proud of yourself.”

Howard Luke

13376154-10-17-10AFN

Salmon filets hung on a drying rack as teens crafted baskets from birch bark and purses from smoked moose hide and beads inside the log hall at Howard Luke’s Gaalee’ya Spirit Camp last week. Thirty students from Lathrop High School and Effie Kokrine Charter School spent two weeks camping at Luke’s home on the south bank of the Tanana River, across from Rosie Creek Road.

This was the fifth and final week of Upward Bound, a program through the Interior-Aleutians Campus of the University of Alaska Fairbanks’ College of Rural and Community Development. The federally funded program is designed to enhance academic and cultural education for high school students and steer them toward college. Activities range from collecting chum salmon with Luke’s fish wheel to drum-making and aquatic science.

“It’s much different the things we can teach them here, beyond the crafts, beyond the lessons,” said program manager Amelia Ruerup. “Having the right place just makes it so much more meaningful.”

The program, in its third year, melds Alaska Native traditions like fishing, talking circles, singing and dancing with technical skills like geology, mapping and measuring the volumetric flow of the Tanana River. Eleven students earned their emergency trauma technicians certification during the week. The instructors include teachers, elders and guest speakers like Jerry Isaac, president of Tanana Chiefs Conference.

“You need to know both sides, the education but also rounding yourself culturally, whether you’re Alaska Native or not,” Ruerup said.

Much of the cultural edu-

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Alaska Federation of Natives Convention 2010

Education

specialists, is presented twice daily.

The class is divided into three sections, and the small groups moved from station to station at the sound of a “magic nomadic bell,” intended to refer to nomadic Athabascan Indians who lived a subsistence lifestyle and moved from seasonal camp to seasonal camp to procure game, fish and furs, DeWilde

By MARY BETH SMETZER on the arctic ice. The girls msmetzer@newsminer.com were outfitted with traditional explained.

There was no time to be kuspuks (summer dresses) bored.

After a slide presentaThis story originally trimmed with ric rac. appeared Sept. 4, 2010 For the next two hours, the tion about the history and diversity of Alaska’s first youngsters were immersed inhabitants, the groups were The first item of busiin Native culture. There was on the go. ness for students visiting the storytelling, beading, basketManning the story station Alaska Room at Anne Wien making, dancing, singing and Elementary is getting dressed. a wealth of information about was retired teacher and Aleut elder Roy Roehl, who immeThursday afternoon, Ann the Native people of Alaska Pearson’s third-grade class, from their origins to the pres- diately engrosses each group arriving from Arctic Light ent day — Aleut, Athabascan, with stories of growing up in Elementary, did just that.

Inupiaq, Yupik and Southeast the Southwest community of Dillingham.

The boys donned white cot- Indians.

School was different during ton hunting jackets similar The fast-paced program, to traditional seal gut parkas led by teacher Lillian DeWilde Roehl’s growing-up years — worn by Native men hunting and assisted by three cultural No hot lunches, no school gym

Innovative project brings Native culture to thousands of students

and no school buses. Roehl mushed a dog team to class.

“At noon we gave them (dogs) a half of a fish and at the end of the day we gave them a whole one,” he explained.

“You mean they didn’t have dog food then?” asked one of the attentive listeners.

Roehl also explained a simple method used to catch ptarmigan.

“We’d set a gill net between two willows, and the next day we’d have ptarmigans and did not spend a (shotgun) shell,” he said.

Ears also perked up at Roehl’s telling of a dramatic encounter with a bear while he was berry picking one fine summer day. When he looked up from his berry pail into the face of a bear, the bear was just as startled as he was.

“I ran away in one direction, and he ran away in the other direction,” Roehl said.

Before he was done, Roehl

Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

talked about the variety of Alaska berries, the five salmon species and their various names.

At another station, children sat for a lesson in the basic steps of decorative beadwork.

Each child was given a plastic plate of colorful beads and, a small cutout felt picture frame, needle and thread.

“Now take a deep breath,” intoned Julia Kakaruk, “I want you to look and listen.”

In a short time, many hands were busily at work.

Gavin Browning, 8, selected red, white and blue beads to trim his picture frame.

“I chose red, white and blue because that’s American, and I love the Army,” he said.

Finishing her beadwork project before the magic nomadic bell rang again, Tishera Owens, 8, smiled. “I thought we were just going to learn stuff,” she said, delighted with the hands-on project.

/LVD LV RXU IULHQG Senator Lisa Murkowski has fought hard for us these past eight years, which is why so many Native groups have stepped forward to endorse her.

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Sunday, October 17, 2010

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Alaska Federation of Natives Convention 2010

Hannah Solomon Centenarian honored at celebration

By MARY BETH SMETZER msmetzer@newsminer.com

AW F AR

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ALASK

as she entered St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church hall for the afternoon party.

This story originally A stream of more than 300 appeared Oct. 2, 2010. people flowed in and out of the crowded church hall, extending Hannah Solomon’s lifelong their best wishes, love and hugs example of giving, caring and to “Grandma Hannah.” sharing, intertwined with love Seated at a white, clothand respect, was returned covered table accented with many times over at her 102nd a bouquet of salmon-colored birthday celebration Sunday. roses, Hannah’s apparel addThe Athabascan matriarch ed another spark of color. was greeted with a rousing A bright pink scarf encirversion of “Happy Birthday” cled her neck, and her vel-

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veteen jacket embossed with multi-colored flowers and leaves was reminiscent of her highly-prized beadwork.

Hannah excelled at that art form, which she learned as a girl, and examples of her beaded work can be found in museums and private collections.

Speeches were delayed until everyone was fed from a heaping buffet of food including moose, caribou, salmon, goose, rabbit, porcupine, side

John Wagner/News-Miner

Hannah Solomon kisses her great-grandson Dawson Engler, 6, on Saturday afternoon. dishes and desserts.

Tradition prevailed as Hannah and the many other Native elders at the gathering were served first; beginning with moose soup, followed by a wide selection of wild game and side dishes, and concluding with a variety of homemade desserts.

Hannah’s meal was pro-

longed by constant greetings from family members and friends. The centenarian looked into the face of each greeter, often asking, “Who are you?” followed by a smile of recognition.

Hannah’s table was covPlease see SOLOMON, Page 66

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Alaska Federation of Natives Convention 2010

Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

SOLOMON: Matriarch known for her exquisite beadwork Continued from Page 65

50 years, said, “We are very close and have always been “I am very glad I am here with you. ered in gift packages, including together whether it’s sad times a soft blanket made by the St. or happy times.”

Matthew’s Sunday School class When they open my door and there was “Would you believe she is and an elegant beaded cross 102? She looks like she’s 80,” from the Alaska Episcopal Dio- snow; next year when they see snow, people Carlo added, before launching cese staff. into a song, “My Older Sister,” The longtime St. Matthew’s are going to remember me. God bless you.” sung in Poldine’s Koyukon parishioner was among the Athabascan language.

— Hannah Solomon founders of the Fairbanks Hannah’s youngest son, Native Association. Later, she Peter Solomon, 59, said people worked as a social worker for can spend their lives reading the organization. the Bible, but “being the Bible Once everyone was served, is far better than reading the Which she did, reciting the traveling to Fairbanks now or Hannah led the speech making, Bible.”

“Lord’s Prayer” in Gwich’in. for the Alaska Federation of in English, interspersed with Referring to his mother, ••• Natives convention later this her Native Gwich’in.

Peter said, “She didn’t spend Many of those in attendance month.

“I am very glad I am here her life reading, she just did it.”

Sunday were directly related He chose to honor his grandwith you. When they open Daughter Daisy Stevens to the Athabascan matriarch mother, who took him in when commented, “I’ve learned a lot my door and there was snow; — down to the fifth generation. he was in fourth grade and saw from her. She taught me love next year when they see snow, Hannah raised 14 children him through his school years. people are going to remember and respect and how to treat in Fort Yukon before moving to “She made sure I was fed, me,” she said. each other.” and clean, and well-dressed, “God bless you. Such a long Fairbanks in the early 1960s.

Elder Mo Samuelson She also helped raise some and that I attended school,” life I have, but we are not here described Hannah as “the most Mardow said. “I can never alone. God is taking care of us. of her grandchildren. caring person I ever met.”

One grandson, Mardow thank her enough for what she “Be careful when you go He recalled an incident did for me.” home,” she concluded, referring Solomon Jr., traveled from many years ago, when a local Fort Yukon to attend the party, Elder Poldine Carlo, 89, a to the icy roads. “I’ll say my “sweet, homeless man” died saying it was a choice between friend of Hannah for more than Native prayer for you.”

and Hannah and three of her children were the only people beside himself who showed up at the funeral home for the man’s wake.

“That is how caring she is,” Samuelson said.

That caring attitude has been spread through the generations. Hannah continues to live at home, cared for by two sons, Frank and Ron. Daughter Regina Varner organized Sunday’s party, but she took no credit for feeding hundreds of people. “It just happens by itself,” she said referring to the multiple donations of food that flowed in and were served by volunteer helpers.

The party’s closing prayer, delivered by Hannah’s “favorite chaplain,” St. Matthew’s pastor Scott Fisher, encapsulated the crowd’s feelings.

“In one way or another, we are all Hannah’s children,” Fisher said.

Contact staff writer Mary Beth Smetzer at 459-7546.

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Sunday, October 17, 2010

67

Alaska Federation of Natives Convention 2010

Eric Engman/News-Miner

The Minto Dancers perform during Quyana Alaska at the Alaska Federation of Natives Convention, Oct. 24, 2007 at the Carlson Center.

Alaska Native Arts and Crafts Fair October 21-22, 8 am-7 pm October 23, 8 am-4 pm Carlson Center Over 100 artisans from all over Alaska will be showcasing and selling their finest work.

Free Admission.

Photo Courtesy of Doyon, Limited

Photo Courtesy of Doyon, Limited

Photo Courtesy of Doyon, Limited

The Fairbanks community is invited to the following events during the Alaska Federation of Natives Convention:

Quyana (Thank You) Nights

Photo by James Barker (AFN)

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Quyana I, October 21 Quyana II, October 22 7pm-11pm, Carlson Center Alaska Native dancers, drummers and singers perform.

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Alaska Federation of Natives Convention 2010

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Sunday, October 17, 2010

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Alaska Federation of Natives Convention 2010

Gwitch’in stories

Gilberts collaborate to preserve traditional tales, language

By MARY BETH SMETZER msmetzer@newsminer.com This story originally appeared Nov. 7, 2009 Two generations separate the Rev. Trimble Gilbert and his grandson Matthew Gilbert.

This summer, grandfather and grandson spent countless hours together translating and transcribing old Gwitch’in stories recorded on tapes and cached decades ago at the University of Alaska Fairbanks Rasmuson Library archives.

The tapes resound with stories of long ago times, preserving the voices, knowledge and Gwich’in tales of Arctic Village elders now gone — their Gwitch’in history, passed down orally from generation to generation throughout thousands of years.

With Trimble’s unique ability to translate the high Gwitch’in language and Matt’s desire to learn more about his heritage, the collaboration has been fruitful in many unexpected ways.

“It changed my life; I found out where I come from,” Matt said.

“In my 16 years of education, I didn’t learn anything about myself, and in the span

of two months, I’ve learned so much.”

Matt is calling the research project a “Gwich’in Renaissance.”

“I hope other people do this within their own cultures, particularly the Gwich’in. We are in a time when our culture is dying fast. Kids are forgetting who they are,” he said. *** The elder Gilbert, 74, is an ordained Episcopal minister. He lives with his wife, Mary, in Arctic Village, a remote Gwitch’in village tucked in the foothills of the Brooks Range, 290 air miles north of Fairbanks.

Matt, 29, is a graduate student at the University of Alaska Fairbanks. He

was born and raised in Arctic Village but left to travel and study when he was a teenager. He returned to Alaska to earn a bachelor’s degree at the University of Alaska Anchorage.

While an undergraduate, Matt first heard mention of the tape recordings.

They piqued his interest, and later he asked his grandfather about them.

“He told me little bits and pieces about them, but things kept dragging me away from doing anything, like internships and travel opportunities,” Matt said.

But every now and then the story Please see GILBERTS, Page 70

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Alaska Federation of Natives Convention 2010

Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

GILBERTS: Stories about woolly mammoths, deep freezes Continued from Page 69

lines would come back to haunt Matt — stories about woolly mammoths, rivers frozen to the bottom, the Ice Age, climate change and restoring peace between the Gwich’in and the Inupiat people.

“Years later, I thought I

have to do something with those,” Matt said.

Last year, while pursuing a master’s degree in rural development, Matt realized he could wait no longer. He wrote a grant to underwrite the project, which was funded by the Alaska Humanities Forum.

“My grandpa is getting

old, and he’s the only person alive who can translate the old Gwitch’in well,” Matt said.

Trimble explained that he understands the dialect because he grew up with elders.

“They talk to each other different than we talk today.

They talk fast, teasing and all

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that,” Trimble said.

Matt said he understands his parents when they speak Gwich’in but has a difficult time understanding his grandparents when they speak to each other in their Native language. As for the taped stories, he can’t understand them.

“They speak high Gwich’in; only my grandpa can understand them,” Matt said.

“He is the only elder alive that really knows the stories too. All the old storytellers are dead except my grandpa. They were the last elders of old. He is one of the last Gwich’in who knew the nomadic life.” *** During the many hours spent working together this summer, Trimble translated and Matt transcribed the stories recorded by two different women during the 1980s.

Fairbanks author Debbie Miller and her husband, Dennis, taught school in Arctic Village from 1975-1978, when

there was one emergency phone, “Trapline Chatter” on the radio and no TV or computers. Most evenings were spent visiting.

“It was a wonderful place to live and learn about one of the most remote cultures in North America,” Miller said. “I just loved hearing the stories.”

Miller was so fascinated by the many interesting tales that she went back in 1980 to record them with the assistance of Albert Gilbert, Trimble’s brother.

Seven years later, UAF librarian Rosemarie Speranza interviewed Arctic Village elders on tape as part of her graduate fieldwork in anthropology. When her master’s thesis topic didn’t fit with the fieldwork, she eventually abandoned it for a different topic.

“I thought my fieldwork was a failure,” Speranza said, “but Matt and other scholars have used it. I am Please see GILDBERT, Page 71

Sunday, October 17, 2010

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GILBERTS: Matt more understanding of his heritage Continued from Page 70

real happy for that. It is a great thing for him.”

Both the Gilberts are grateful for the women’s foresight.

“It was lucky the white ladies taped for us,” Trimble said. “I don’t want to lose a lot of good stories.” *** The summer’s work was long and arduous. Trimble was in Fairbanks playing the fiddle for tourists in the evenings at the Morris Thompson Cultural and Visitors Center and being called upon to minister or visit the sick. But Matt stayed on his grandfather’s trail, meeting with him daily wherever he was staying — a hotel or a dorm room.

“I followed him home for a week to Arctic Village because my grandmother was missing him,” Matt said.

The many hours together were spent with Trimble translating the

“He is the only elder alive that really knows the stories too. All the old storytellers are dead except my grandpa. They were the last elders of old. He is one of the last Gwich’in who knew the nomadic life.”

- Matt Gilbert tapes and Matt writing them out, asking questions and drawing pictures to clarify details.

Matt now understands his grandfather’s life experiences in greater detail.

It was a time when every bullet counted, and residents couldn’t run out of bullets because the closest store or airstrip was 120 miles away and transportation was via dog team. It was a time when burning birch fungus was carried from camp to camp as a fire starter.

I

N

G

Matt also learned about his greatgrandfather who smoked his family’s clothes outdoors over a fire every day during the flu epidemic to keep his family alive when many others in the village were dying.

After a particularly dramatic story about a man who overcame huge odds to save his starving family, Matt said his grandfather told him, “This is where you come from. This is the kind of work people put in so you are here today.”

“I was speechless all day. I was really humbled,” Matt said.

Whether the stories will be published, hasn’t yet been established.

“Some of these stories are sacred to us,” Matt said. “I think I’ll have to have them reviewed by a traditional advisory board before I publish them.”

Bill Schneider, who started the oral history program years ago at the UAF Archives and is one of Matt’s advisers for the Alaska Humanities Forum, is enthusiastic about the Gilberts’ cooperative effort translating the tapes.

“So often oral tapes will just sit on a shelf waiting to be discovered,” Schneider said.

“For those of us at the university seeking to reach out to rural Alaska, to have someone like Matt doing this is very exciting.”

For the foreseeable future, Matt is pursuing graduate studies in anthropology to concentrate on cultural and Native historical revitalization and archaeological work in his area.

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