RPC 2012 - Rural Alaska Community Action Program, Inc

Rural Alaska Community Action Program, Inc.Bristol Bay Native Association

29th Annual Rural Providers’

ConferenceDillingham, Alaska

May 28-June 1, 2012

Coral Woods, age 3, performs with Sophia Wood’s Dance Group during the RPC Opening Ceremonies.Photo by Angela Gonzalez

Wellness - Our Circle of Life 1

About the Rural Providers’ Conference (RPC) The RPC is an annual gathering designed by rural Alaskans to share information, gain skills and participate in training to address substance abuse in culturally significant ways. The RPC is conducted in a style compatible with Alaska Native lifestyles and ways of communicating and includes ceremonies, talking circles and cultural events. Participants include substance abuse service providers, youth, Elders and family members interested in gaining new energy and celebrating their own sobriety. The RPC rotates to different communities every two years.

The 2012 RPC was a resounding success with over 360 attendees including 45 youth. Dillingham’s leadership in the Bristol Bay family of organizations proved again the power of working together for a common cause creates success and how those commitments lead to breaking the cycles of despair and moving to a life of hope and resolve. Over the last 29 years, the RPC has become a leading force for the state’s growing sobriety movement.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Cover Photo:RPC Logo Artwork:

Photos:Design & Layout:

A mural by Apayo Moore, artist, located in DillinghamApayo MooreRurAL CAP and BBNA Staff and VolunteersAngela Gonzalez

IntroductionHistory of the Gathering

Staking CeremonyKeynote Speakers

Youth TrackYouth Track AttendeesConference Highlights

Workshop DescriptionsJustice Track

RPC PlannersAcknowledgements

Honor Guard Ceremony

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The conference theme and logo for 2011 and 2012. Logo design by Apayo Moore

CREDiTS

2012 Rural Providers’ Conference2

Over the last 29 years, the Rural Providers’ Conference (RPC) has become a leading force for the state’s growing sobriety movement.

The RPC, also called the Gathering, was started in response to the sobriety initiative among Alaska Native communities in the early 1980s. Those involved in the movement saw a need to create a partnership to share information and resources. The first Gathering was held in 1983 in Anchorage and was sponsored by the Alaska State Office of Alcohol and Drug Abuse (ADA) and was initially intended for staff in rural Alaska programs that were funded by ADA. It was at the end of the first meeting when Anna Frank of Fairbanks suggested that the people in rural Alaska who were served by the programs should be included in the design of RPC.

Since then conference participants have planned and facilitated each Gathering while RurAL CAP, the co-hosting Alaska Native regional organizations and other sponsors provide logistical support. The annual event has blossomed to include participants from across the state.

The Gathering serves as a forum where rural providers share resources that are culturally relevant to the Alaska Native way of life. The conference features traditional ways of celebrating and sharing this information, including talking circles, fiddle dancing, traditional storytelling and potlucks. Community representatives share approaches that are working well in their communities. The Gathering unifies and empowers. It serves as a networking center and as a training ground for community leaders. It encourages the creation of community-made solutions and collaboration of community efforts to reduce substance abuse and promote wellness.

RPC Stakeholders plan and facilitate the Staking Ceremony on the final day of the RPC. They hold prayer ceremonies throughout the year. They offer guidance and encouragement to people in recovery from substance abuse. Stakeholders make a commitment to sobriety and work toward it in personal and professional capacities. They often help people by counseling or listening to them. Stakeholders often serve on the RPC statewide planning committee, speak at the RPC, and serve as ambassadors in their region to promote the Sobriety Movement.

HiSTORy OF THE GATHERiNG

The 16th Annual Rural Providers’ Conference was held in Fairbanks in 1999. Jodi Potts (with microphone on left) speaks with other Youth Track attendees. Richard and Anna Frank (at right) listen to a presentation at the RPC.Photos by Shawne Albright

Anchorage

Tyonek

Copper Center/Glennallen

Tok/Tanacross

Kenai/Soldotna

Nenana

Bethel

Sitka

Fairbanks

Kotzebue

Seward

Bethel

Copper Center/Glennallen

Kodiak

Dillingham

1984

1985-86

1987-88

1989-90

1991-92

1993-94

1995-96

1997-98

1999-00

2001-02

2003-04

2005-06

2007-08

2009-10

2011-12

RPC Host Communities

The RPC Youth Track attendees participate in the Circle Talks at the 2012 RPC. The Youth Track has always been an integral part of the Gathering.Photo by Amy Modig


STAKiNG CEREmONy

The Staking Ceremony was introduced to the Rural Providers’ Conference (RPC) in 1986 to signify the commitment to sobriety. The involvement in the ceremony is a public declaration of one’s intention for sobriety, because it is made in public with those one respects or honors.

The Staking Ceremony’s roots lay in a battle between the Mandan Indians and the Lakota Sioux. According to the tale, a Mandan warrior “staked” himself to the earth during a battle with the Lakota. He believed so strongly in his cause that he refused to retreat. A Lakota Elder was so impressed by the Mandan warrior’s courage, honor and commitment to his people that he stopped the Sioux who were about to kill him, saying, “Even in an enemy, we must honor this example.” Instead, they nursed the warrior back to health and returned him to his people.

Since its symbolic reenactment years ago by a small group in Canada, the modern staking ceremony has grown tremendously with stakeholders all over the country. Phil Lane Jr. of Alberta, Canada introduced the ceremony to Alaska in 1986. In the RPC’s modern staking ceremony, participants declare their commitment to sobriety.

The small stakes in the ceremony symbolize the warrior’s spear. It is a way of “tying” oneself to the spear and facing the enemy – alcohol and drug abuse. The stakes are always decorated with black, white, yellow and red. Black represents the West and African American people; white is for the North and White people; Yellow is the East and Yellow People; and Red stands for the South and Red people. Each RPC participant is given a stake to take home that reminds them of their commitment to sobriety for themselves and their loved ones.

The first ceremony had one couple represent each Alaskan culture, and included an original bundle of stakes. The first holders of the bundle were Doug Modig of Ketchikan and Amy Lohr of Tanacross. They passed the bundle to John and Teresa Pingayak of Chevak in June 1991 at Kenai and to other Stakeholders since then. Ed and Priscilla Peele and Tom and Jennifer Young of Sitka held the bundle from 2003-2009. Fred and Irene Coyle of Kodiak carried the bundle from 2009-2011. In 2012, the bundle was passed to JD and DeeDee Bennis of Dillingham. Over the years, Shirley Holmberg, Carol Rose and Amanda Peele have represented single women. This year, Thomas Tilden joined the Stakeholders to represent single men.

Al Stevens (unofficial RPC Stakeholder), Doug & Amy Modig, Shirley Holmberg, Amanda Peele, Ed & Priscilla Peele, Thomas Tilden, Teresa & John Pingayak, and JD & DeeDee Bennis. Tilden and the Bennis’ became Stakeholders at the RPC closing ceremonies in 2012.

Participants prepare for the Staking Ceremony in Dillingham. Participants stick their stakes into gravel to make a commitment to sobriety for themselves or others they serve.Photos by Angela Gonzalez


KEyNOTE ADDRESSES

Doug and Amy Modig

Wassiliisia R. Bennis

Stories about personal and professional triumphs over substance abuse have a positive impact on attendees. The 2012 keynote presenters were Doug and Amy Modig, Wassiliisia R. Bennis, Sharon Clark, Thomas Tilden and AlexAnna Salmon. The Dillingham High School Gym was filled each day for the keynote addresses.

~ Our Future Can Heal Us ~ Doug and Amy modig

Doug Modig is a Tsimshian of the Eagle Clan. He was born and raised in Ketchikan, Alaska. Doug has worked with Native peoples since the early 70s, and is trained nationally in the drug courts initiatives and for Moral Reconation Therapy. Doug is a longtime advocate for people taking personal responsibility for their actions and this helped begin what has become known as the Alaska Sobriety Movement.

Amy Modig is a Deg Hi’tan Athabascan of Shageluk and Grayling by birth and Tanacross by adoption. She has worked in many fields of education, alcohol treatment and prevention, conference coordinating, newsletters, grant writing and program development. Amy now works for RurAL CAP as a Wellness Education Coordinator in tobacco projects for the AmeriCorps BIRCH Members and the Growing Up Tobacco-Free Project for RurAL CAP’s Child Development Division.

Doug and Amy are married and have two children at home – Doug Jr. and Charley. They are co-authors of Nation Building: An Alaska Native Guide to Personal and Community Empowerment and Elder Eyes 1 and 2 and are working on another for land stewardship. They have been RPC Stakeholders since 1986.

~ Wellness is in Our Stories ~Wassiliisia R. Bennis

Wassiliisia R. Bennis, better known as “DeeDee”, is the daughter of Jack and Kikono Savo. She has two brothers and two sisters. DeeDee has lived in Bristol Bay all of her life. She has been married to her high school sweetheart, John D. Bennis, for 35 years. They have three children, John, Jason and Jennifer, and four grandchildren. DeeDee is a commercial fisher at the family set net operation and a harvester of subsistence foods. You will find her busy at the smokehouse in the summer.

DeeDee and her husband operate Dillingham’s Board Room Bed & Breakfast. DeeDee has been the Chief Administrative Officer at the Bristol Bay Native Association since 1995, where she was the first employee to earn recognition for 25 continuous years of service. Along the way, she has taken leadership roles on countless committees and task groups as a parent, tribal member and employee. DeeDee has become a driving force behind Bristol Bay’s Wellness Initiative. Her hope and desire is to have our families find healing from within, to be able to speak from their heart openly and honestly, and be proud of who they are. DeeDee is a resilient and courageous advocate who leads by example. She has a passionate commitment to breaking the cycle of substance abuse and its impact on Alaska Native families.


Thomas Tilden

AlexAnna Salmon

AlexAnna Salmon receives a standing ovation after her keynote address.

Photos by Angela Gonzalez

Sharon Clark

Sharon ClarkSharon was born in Clarks Point and was delivered by her father, Joseph Clark. She grew up with her father and mother, Clara Clark and 11 siblings. Sharon has a son and two daughters and feels very blessed to be the grandmother of 13 beautiful grandchildren. She works hard in a professional and personal capacity. In her professional life, Sharon is the Village Administrator, wearing many hats. In her personal life, she is a Wellness Warrior, striving to become more loving and responsive to her needs and the needs of her children and her grandchildren to end domestic violence, emotional abuse and illegitimate shame in her community and region. Sharon’s goal is to continue on her journey and make a difference.

Sharon attended Beauty For Ashes training in 2005. Her interests in Wellness grew and she continued on to Advanced Leadership Training, and straight to Train the Trainer. Sharon has become a leader in this field on a regional level. She led Beauty for Ashes sessions in Ekwok in 2009 and Togiak in 2011. Sharon’s hopes and dreams are to have many people in Bristol Bay become involved in training and to become well so that the circle of oppression is not experienced in generations to come. She feels that without the tools she has gained she would not be the person she has grown to be.

Thomas TildenBorn in Dillingham in 1953 to Mary and Earl Tilden, Thomas moved with his family from Dillingham to Portage Creek along the Nushagak River when he was a young child. He learned how to hunt, fish, and gather berries, and plants to help sustain their lifestyle. He is the father of two sons and four daughters and is now an “Uppa” to nine grandchildren. Tom was sent to high school in Dillingham and went to the University of Nagoya Japan and the University of Alaska in his senior year of high school. He went on to school at the Seward Skill Center to learn professional cooking.

Tom is a Bristol Bay permit holder and commercial fishing boat captain. He has dedicated a great deal of his personal time advocating for protection of the sensitive salmon environment and helping people understand the relationship between Bristol Bay cultures and subsistence resources. His long list of public service includes being a Curyung Tribal Council Chief, former councilman and Mayor of Dillingham, a member of the Bristol Bay Native Association, Chair for the Indian Education at the Dillingham City School District, board member for Choggiung Ltd. and Nunamta Alukestai and a village representative on the Alaska Federation of Natives Board of Directors. His favorite time of the year is when his children come home on Father’s Day to help him put up fish. Tom will spoke of his journey toward wellness and helping others through the Bristol Bay Wellness Initiative.

~ Eskimo Girl ~AlexAnna Salmon

AlexAnna Salmon was raised in the Village of Igiugig. She is the granddaughter of Jon and Mary Olympic, and the second oldest of Dan and Julia Salmon. In 2008, she graduated from Dartmouth College with a dual Bachelor’s degree in Native American Studies and Anthropology and returned to work for the Igiugig Tribal Village Council as President and Acting Administrator. She also serves as a member of the Igiugig Native Corporation board, recently on the Lake and Peninsula Borough Planning Commission, and manages several family businesses. She loves spending time with her family, traveling, and the outdoors.


The RPC Youth Track was a collaboration with teens from the Bristol Bay villages and Dillingham. The action-packed agenda was created for meaningful engagement by youth for youth. Special thanks to the Bristol Bay Campus, Safe and Fear Free Environment (SAFE) and the Alaska Native Tribal Health Consortium for sponsoring the Youth Track.

The sessions and activities were chosen to address three key areas: • Wellness for Teens • Expression of Self • Substance Abuse and Prevention

Allison Warden kept youth enthralled during her rap presentation for the RPC Youth Track. There were 45 youth attendees from the Bristol Bay region and around the state.Photos by Amy Gorn

Allison Warden (also known as Alaska Native rapper “AKU-MATU”) taught youth how to rap and they rapped during the RPC Talent Share event. The chorus was: “We are who we are, no matter where we are. Say goodbye to the bar, so we can go far!”Photo by Angela Gonzalez

youth track


Ice Breakers & IntroductionsPresenters: Amy Gorn (RurAL CAP) and Allison WardenIntroductory time to get to know youth participants, where everyone lives, and why leading a healthy and active life is important.

Higher Education PlanningPresenters: Ramiro Espinoza (Bristol Bay Campus)Ramiro offered advice and discussed financial aid and planning for education beyond high school.

How to Start Your Own Youth Leadership GroupPresenter: SYLCThe Sitka Youth Leadership Committee is dedicated to respect, building bridges among youth in Sitka and Alaska. Youth learned about their activities and how to form their own leadership group.

Overcoming Teen StereotypesPresenter: Kate O’Brien (Spirit of Youth)Look out! Youth learned how negative stereotypes can be detrimental to their health and well-being. They discussed ways to combat toxic stereotypes surrounding teens. They learned how to use techniques such as fostering positive self-image, sharing successes, shifting the dialogue, and challenging the norm to overcome issues they face now and will continue to face in the future.

Prime for LifePresenters: Rene Anthony Rouzan, Linda McLaughlin (Alaska Native Justice Center)The Alaska Native Justice Center helped youth identify what they value and how to protect those things through the power of choice concerning alcohol and drug use.

Try ActPresenter: Allison WardenParticipants played a theatre game and learned how to perform in front of one another by becoming statues that tell a wellness story. Participants learned about story structure and what makes a good story through the course of the workshop.

Try RapPresenter: Allison WardenAllison is an Inupiat Eskimo performance artist. Allison performed a rap song as AKU-MATU and led an energetic and inspiring process to create a group rap song focused on ‘what is a healthy village.’

yOUTH TRACK WORKSHOPS

Trooper Jon Simeon performed with the youth.Photo by Amy Gorn

Warden practices rapping with the youth.Photo by Amy Gorn


Wellness StoryPresenters: Annie Fritze (Bristol Bay Campus), Jackie Nick (Dillingham high school graduate), Thomas Akelkok (Alaska Wildlife State Trooper) Annie (pictured in red at right) with Bristol Bay Campus and high school student Jackie led everyone to complete a powerful wellness story. Trooper Akelkok (at right) shared his suicide prevention journey.

Photo by Amy Gorn

Youth DanceSAFE hosted a dance for youth track attendees.

yOUTH TRACK WORKSHOPS

Youth Track attendees participated in Circle Talks during the main conference, facilitated by Allison Warden.Photo by Jennifer Bennis

Reflection from Allison Warden on Youth Participation in Circle TalksThe conference facilitators did something exciting, new and a bit radical. They put all the youth in the inner circle of the big gathering circle and let me facilitate the youth talking to one another about issues that they care about, about what they want to share from their perspective, of what they have to say about wellness and healthy communities. It was amazing to be in the center, quietly passing the microphone from youth to youth as they shared their youth wisdom with their Elders, Aunties and Uncles on the outside edges of their inner circle.

The youth were brave and bold in their sharing of words to each other and the adults. You could literally feel the adults reel from the truth that their youth were sharing. It was an impact that was felt deeply by the community. One youth shared that when he sees his relatives drinking it hurts him so much and he has thought about trying to start drinking just to hurt them back the way they are hurting him. Yet he doesn’t drink, he chooses to not try alcohol, because he forgives the adults around him and he knows that it is his responsibility to do something different.


yOUTH TRACK ATTENDEESGroup Photos

Alegnagik Youth Track attendees.Photo by Angela Gonzalez

Chevak Youth Track attendees.Photo by Angela Gonzalez

Tyonek Youth Track attendees.Photo by Angela Gonzalez

New Stuyahok Youth Track attendees.Photo by Angela Gonzalez

Togiak Youth Track attendees.Photo by Angela Gonzalez

Hughes Youth Track attendees with Governor Sean Parnell.Photo courtesy of Thelma Nicholia


CONFERENCE HiGHLiGHTSThere were many events held during the RPC, like Opening Ceremonies, a Community Potluck, Talent Show, a dance and a Kuspuk Show. Healthy activities provide a strong foundation in the quest for sobriety.

RPC Stakeholders, like Doug Modig, led Circle Talks after each keynote address.Photo by Angela Gonzalez

Above: Governor Sean Parnell gave opening remarks at the RPC.

Left: Sophia Wood’s Dance Group charms the crowd for the second year during the Opening Ceremonies. Photos by Joie Brown

Left: There were 45 attendees in the RPC Youth track.Photo courtesy of Allison Warden

Right: Hjalmer E. (Ofi) Olson was honored and recognized as the BBNC Elder of Year at the RPC Opening Ceremonies.Photo by Angela Gonzalez


Attendees and local residents enjoyed dancing with New Stuyahok’s Upriver Band for the second year in a row.Photo by Angela Gonzalez

Clint McArthur Jr. and Matrona Javier of Dillingham, and Aurora George of Clark’s Point enjoyed visiting during the RPC Dance.Photo by Jennifer Bennis

A group of ladies (at left) are excited to be finalists in one of the RPC Kuspuk contests for “most colorful” held during the dance. Jasmine Kritz (at right) of Dillingham also participated in the contest.Photos by Angela Gonzalez

Troopers Darrell Hildebrand, Jon Simeon and Tom Akelkok visited with RPC attendees. They presented during the main RPC and the Youth Track on suicide prevention and awareness.Photos by Angela Gonzalez


Addressing the Root Causes of SuicidePresenter: Patrick Anderson (Chugachmiut)Unresolved childhood trauma, often referred to in scientific literature as adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), guide individuals to adopt a variety of negative behaviors, including suicide, that have very serious consequences for the individual. ACEs are quite common among the U.S. population with multiple ACEs contributing to increased potential for adopting negative behaviors. Integrating primary health care with behavioral health care; utilizing a 1- page assessment tool based on the ACE Study; and restoring our Tribal culture to the respectful relationships we once had, can help reduce our suicide rates as well as other health care and behavioral issues.

Bristol Bay Native Association Family Services Dept. FocusPresenters: AnnaMae Bartholomew, Thomas Gardiner, Eva LeVeque, Crystal Nixon-Luckhurst, Golda Weiland, Peter Andrew, Courtenay Gomez (Bristol Bay Native Association)BBNA’s Family Services Department (formerly Social Services Department) is restructuring, adding a new division, programs and staff. This presentation discussed the programs and services offered within the department and the three divisions of Elderly Services, Family Violence Prevention and Children’s Services.

Culture Camps: Promoting Community Resiliency Subsistence Harvest CyclePresenter: Courtenay Gomez (BBNA Family Services)This workshop demonstrated the achievements of the Curyung Culture Camp in Dillingham, and presented participants with ideas and tools to pursue development of similar subsistence harvest culture camps in their communities.

RPC WORKSHOPS

The workshops were chosen by the RPC Local Planning Committee with support and suggestions from the RPC Statewide Planning Committee. They began with a review of the past year’s RPC evaluations where participants list the topics they would like to learn more about. A request for workshop proposals was then circulated to potential presenters. There were four concurrent workshops during the afternoons of the RPC, and some were extended into two parts.

Continuing Education CreditsRurAL CAP recognizes the need for attendees seeking professional development in the provider field. Professionals and paraprofessionals had the opportunity to receive credit through the Alaska Commission for Behavioral Health Certification. Continuing Education Units (CEUs) for licensed social workers and counselors were available, as well as a university credit from Bristol Bay Campus.

Circle Talks were held each day before workshops began. Photo by Jennifer Bennis


Eliminating Tobacco in Alaska – Part 1 & 2Presenters: Dana Diehl (Alaska Tobacco Prevention & Control Program), Cheryl Dalena (Alaska Native Tribal Health Consortium)This session was a talking circle style discussion where guided questions were used to start a community conversation. Guided questions reflected the three conference principles: 1. (Self-empowerment) How can behavioral health providers, community health aides, and other health professionals feel empowered to address the issue of tobacco use? 2. (Building capacity within communities) What resources already exist in the state and in rural communities to help reduce the burden of tobacco, and what additional resources are needed? 3. (Changing attitudes, behaviors, and belief systems) What key values are important to changing the norm of tobacco use in rural communities and within the behavioral health population?

Everyday Wellness for the Caring ProfessionalPresenters: Lara Collis (Bristol Bay Area Health Corp., Behavioral Health Center), Rachel Muir (State of Alaska, Dept. of Health & Social Services)This experiential workshop offered individuals the confidentiality and safety to explore their self-care issues as it relates to personal health, professional goals and work relationships. Stress management concepts and promotion of self-growth through the introduction of brain science research and mind/body therapies was addressed.

Exploring SpiritualityPresenter: Shirley Holmberg (Yendaadleno)Exploring spirituality is an interactive, participatory workshop. They discussed spirituality and what it means to each of individual. They explored what Native spirituality is. A few topics included were: the energy in each individual, the most powerful way to heal, and “creating atmosphere.”


Family Wellness Warriors Initiative: Breaking the SilencePresenters: Maggie Napoleon, Kyle Newman, Ronda Pokupec (Southcentral Foundation)Southcentral Foundation’s award winning Family Wellness Warriors Initiative, thoroughly grounded in Alaska Native traditional values and strengths, recognized internationally for its innovative approach, is ending domestic violence, child abuse and child neglect in Alaska. For every person who has been harmed there is a person who caused that harm. The reality of that is staggering when you consider Alaska ranks the highest in a variety of sexual and violent crimes. This workshop demonstrated how helpers can come alongside both those who have been harmed and those who have caused harm in a way that offers hope and healing in conjunction with safety and boundaries. This workshop also explored using the power of “story” as a means to identify the root cause of behaviors and discuss the importance of spirituality as a cultural resiliency factor, inseparable from traditional belief systems that played an important role in historical survival.

Gender Lives: The Impact of Gender on RecoveryPresenters: Ginger Baim, EJ Essic (SAFE)This workshop focused on the impact of gender on chemical dependency, substance abuse and recovery, especially as it affects Alaska Native women and men in rural Alaska. The workshop also explored how gender affects the risk factors for and recovery from adverse childhood experiences (ACE).

Heart of a Grizzly Part 1 & 2Presenters: EJ Essic, Christine King (SAFE)This workshop focused on sexual abuse, intimate partner violence and substance abuse in rural Alaska - particularly as it affects Alaska Native women - with an emphasis on the special challenges associated with prevention, intervention and effective advocacy for women who experience multiple challenges including battering, chemical dependency, sexual and physical abuse, and the impact of fetal alcohol exposure.

Heroic Journey: Reframing Trauma into TriumphPresenters: DorothyShepardDunne(AlaskaPacificUniversity),LoisLaw(SouthcentralFoundation)Participants learned about how every person’s most difficult times help transform them into heroic helpers. The “heroic journey” is a story told by every culture in many ways. Participants created a story in pictures which represented their own personal heroic journeys. Stories were shared to look inside to find out what gifts we have been given in surviving and overcoming challenges of life.

Historical TraumaPresenter: Doug Modig (Gathering of Eagles)Historical Trauma is thought to be the cause of a vast array of social ills suffered by many Alaskan Natives which has resulted in extremely high rates of suicide, alcoholism, and other forms of destructive behavior. Participants examined history and the impacts it had on Alaska Natives. Ongoing outcomes and possible remedies were also discussed.

RPC WORKSHOPS


Increasing Youth Resiliency: A Strategy to Prevent Substance Abuse and SuicidePresenter: Becky Judd (State of Alaska Division of Behavioral Health)What does resiliency have to do with youth substance use and suicide? What does it mean to be resilient? How do we nurture resiliency in our self and others? Attendees discussed these questions in this interactive workshop.

Knowing Who You ArePresenters: Lou Johnson, Crystal Nixon-Luckhurst (BBNA Family Services)Presenters discussed what “Knowing Who You Are” (KWYA) is about and how it came to be in Alaska and the Bristol Bay. They also completed a KWYA activity with participants.

Planning While Aging in Rural AlaskaPresenters: Lacey Peterson, Tina Reigh (Alaska Legal Services)As we age, we all need to make certain arrangements and decisions. Participants learned about estate planning options such as wills, living wills and powers of attorney. In addition, eligibility and services of Medicaid and Medicare was discussed.

Preventing BurnoutPresenter: Sarah Lu Bradley (Retired Counselor, formerly of SAFE)This workshop explored symptoms of burnout. A discussion was held on identifying areas of burnout, particularly in the helping professions, and some techniques for coping with burnout.

Protecting the Welfare of Our ChildrenPresenter: Deanna Baier (Bristol Bay Native Association)The presenter shared resources for the prevention of child abuse.

Suicide Prevention and AwarenessPresenters: Trooper Thomas Akelkok, Trooper Jon Simeon, Trooper Darrel HildebrandAlaska State Troopers Akelkok, Simeon, and Hildebrand are three Alaska Native men who have found a unique way to connect with youth on matters of suicide prevention. Youth are excited to see them pull into their village on snowmobiles, as they travel from village to village. Their connection to youth is open and honest. The message they delivered comes from knowing what damages result when someone takes their own life.

Troopers Tom Akelkok, Darrell Hildebrand and Jon Simeon (standing) drew a large audience for their presentation on Suicide Prevention and Awareness.Photo by Angela Gonzalez


Store Outside Your Door: The Importance of Nutrition in RecoveryPresenters: Dr. Gary Ferguson, Diseree Simeon (Alaska Native Tribal Health Consortium)Nutrition has a profound influence in the process of recovery and in achieving wellness. Our traditional foods are rich in nutrients that are often deficient in people who are in recovery. This workshop highlighted local foods that can assist in wellness. The workshop was experiential, with the tasting of nutrient-dense foods. The Healthy Foods Buying Guide was presented. The workshop was held in two sessions: one where ideas/teaching were presented, followed by a breakout session that allowed for sharing by incorporating healthy, traditional foods in their programs. Digital stories were shared and ways ANTHC is incorporating them into their social media outreach.

Storytelling: Binding the GenerationsPresenter: Deanna Baier (Bristol Bay Native Association)This workshop explored the techniques of storytelling and provided ways to practice storytelling in your own homes and communities. For generations, culture, history and tradition have been passed on through the practice of storytelling. Storytelling teaches about the past, the culture, values, and dreams. Through storytelling, youth of all ages are learning how to listen, communicate and reach out to others who will listen to them. Through reciprocation, storytelling helps the older generation to hear the youth, strengthening relationships between the generations, and builds resiliency.

Talking Circles and Traditional Healing Methods for Rural Health ProvidersPresenters: Gary Ferguson, Margaret Hoffman David, Meda DeWitt Schleifman, Desiree Simeon, Lily UyurikaraqUlran(AlaskaNativeTribalHealthConsortium)This workshop presented Traditional Healing methods such as Talking Circles, Food as Medicine, Alaska Native World View, and local plants, as tools for rural health providers to add to their programs. These are complementary to the training they have and may assist them in helping clients that prefer a more traditional approach.

Trauma, Attachment and Early Brain Development - Part 1 & 2Presenters: Jim Neumann, Akila Osakwe (Bristol Bay Area Health Corporation)The presentation included the effect of violence on fetal and early childhood brain development and attachment. This included the metabolic activation of hormones and steroids produced by the body when under stress. In addition there was information regarding how stress can affect different parts of the brain that are centered on cognition and learning. Children at an early age can be affected by trauma such as physical or sexual abuse or the witnessing of domestic violence. The presentation provided information on the long term psychological and physiological effects of childhood trauma as a person reaches adulthood.

What’s Your Green Dot – Part 1 & 2Presenters: Ginger Baim, Bernina Venua (SAFE)This workshop presented the basics of the Green Dot Initiative and focused on engaging bystanders to intervene to prevent “red dot” situations such as substance abuse, suicide, domestic violence, sexual assault, bullying, racist or sexist language or actions, and other behaviors that put people at risk of harm.

RPC WORKSHOPS

Samples of traditional foods from the Bristol Bay region were displayed.


For the first time ever, the RPC offered a Tribal Justice Track to raise awareness regarding the unique healing and therapeutic needs of communities, families, adults, youth, and children impacted by the justice system. The Justice Track included five workshops on how tribal court and therapeutic practitioners are collaborating together to build culture-based healing and wellness initiatives throughout rural Alaska.

How Diversion Panels Can Strengthen Tribal CourtsPresenters: Linnea Mario, Linda McLaughlin, Rene Rouzan (Alaska Native Justice Center)This presentation examined the State Statute concerning Minor consuming laws and how local communities can use those laws to impact substance abuse among their teens.

KnowYourRights“DisproportionateMinorityConfinement”Presenters: Catherine Boruff (State of Alaska, Public Defender Agency), Linda McLaughlin, Rene Rouzan (Alaska Native Justice Center)This workshop helped the layman understand their rights as U.S. citizens when engaging law enforcement.

Overview of Alaska Tribal Justice ProgramsPresenters: Kimberly Martus (BBNA Community Services), Beckie Murdock (Criminal Justice Center for Innovation, Fox Valley Technical College), Rene Rouzan (Alaska Native Justice Center), April January (Association of Village Council Presidents)Facilitated by Beckie Murdock, this session provided an opportunity to learn about how Alaska tribal communities implement justice programs. There was time for everyone to share their successes and challenges. The session reviewed what is working and how to move forward with justice programs even when funding may not be available to support your efforts.

Traditional Native JusticePresenters: Pete Abraham (Togiak Tribal Elder Judge), Kimberly Martus (BBNA), Tina Reigh (Alaska Legal Services Corp.), Lisa Jaeger (Tanana Chiefs Conference), April January (AVCP)The workshop focused on how disputes were traditionally resolved in Alaska Native communities. Participants were encouraged to share their own experiences and understandings of traditional justice systems. Participants left the workshop with ideas on how to implement traditional dispute resolution strategies in their home communities and tribal courts.

Tribal Healing To Wellness CourtsPresenters: Kimberly Martus (BBNA Community Services), Carol Brown (AVCP)This workshop provided an overview of Tribal Healing To Wellness Courts movement and how this therapeutic court model can be incorporated into Alaska Tribal Courts. Therapeutic Courts are designed to intervene with and supervise court-ordered offenders struggling with alcohol or drug addiction and provide them access to rehabilitation and recovery services, and court-monitoring and supervision as an alternative to prison. Information on the ten key components required to create a therapeutic court and the role of the inter-disciplinary Wellness Court Team was emphasized.

RPC TRiBAL JUSTiCE TRACK


Dillingham Local Committee Co-ChairsDeeDee Bennis, BBNARose Fisher, BBNA

Local Conference AssistanceJoyce “Pinky” Armstrong, BBNAKristina A. Ramirez

Local Planning Committee membersSerena Aikens-McArthur, BBNAJoe Chythlook, BBNCGinger Baim, SAFESharon Fox, BBAHCAnnie Fritze, Univ. of Alaska Bristol Bay CampusTed Krieg, Alano ClubLucille Johnson, BBNAEva LeVeque, BBNARose Loera, BBAHCGregory MarxMiller, SAFEDebbie McLean-Nelson, Univ. of Alaska Bristol Bay CampusDavid Nicholson, Alano ClubMelina Shade, Alano ClubTom Tilden, Curyung Tribal CouncilBernina Venua, SAFE

Statewide Conference CoordinatorBridget McCleskey, Owner, Conference Coordinators, LLC

Statewide Planning Committee membersJoseph Cantil, Alaska Native Tribal Health ConsortiumMargaret David, Alaska Native Tribal Health ConsortiumAnna Frank, Episcopal DioceseNick Gonzales, Akeela, Inc.Shirley Holmberg, YendaadlenoDoug and Amy Modig, Gathering of EaglesPriscilla PeeleRonda Pokupec, Southcentral FoundationMichael Powell, State of Alaska, Div. of Behavioral Health

RPC ArtworkApayo Moore

RPC Stakeholders (Present)JD & DeeDee BennisDoug and Amy ModigEd and Priscilla PeeleShirley HolmbergAmanda PeeleJohn and Teresa PingayakThomas Tilden

youth Track PlannersBrandie Bocatch, DillinghamTravis Chunak, New StuyahokBrian Clark, DillinghamValerie Eason, DillinghamEli Hunt, DillinghamConnor Ito, DillinghamCody Lehrman, DillinghamQuentin Martin, DillinghamTrevor Nielson, DillinghamTommy Pauling, DillinghamAnna Rae Petla, DillinghamCourtney Rau, KoliganekMichelle Roehl, DillinghamDacoda Thomas, Dillingham

RurAL CAP StaffJoie BrownCathie ClementsSandra EricksonAmy GornAngela GonzalezAmy Modig

RPC PLANNERS

Rose Fisher, DeeDee Bennis and Joe Chythlook (emcee) of the Bristol Bay Native Association recognize sponsors, supporters and partners at the RPC.Photo by Jennifer Bennis


These fish are comprised of the organizations, businesses and individuals who helped to make the 29th Annual RPC a resounding success. Thank you!

Exhibitors gave out information and also sold Alaska Native artwork, clothing and food.

QUyANA CAQNEQ!

Dillingham area

Photos by Angela Gonzalez


HONOR GUARD CEREmONy

Governor Sean Parnell honored four surviving Guardsmen (three in the center and one not pictured). Photo by Angela Gonzalez Photo by Jennifer Bennis

Family members of deceased Honor Guard members were given discharge papers and an American Flag. Below (at right), the Dillingham High School gym is filled during the ceremony. Photos by Jennifer Bennis

At left, Shanna Ann Schroeder receives a flag in honor of her late grandfather Herman Schroeder Sr. Photo by Angela Gonzalez

With the opening ceremony for the RPC falling on Memorial Day, Dillingham chose to honor those who have served in the Alaska Territorial Guard (ATG) and recognized the surviving four Guardsmen. It was a moving ceremony that also honored the memory of the local ATG veterans who passed away. In a solemn and memorable ceremony, more than 40 next of kin proudly received the US flag and official discharge papers for veterans’ status in their loved ones’ behalf. Alaska Governor Sean Parnell participated in the ceremony. We would like to give a special thanks to Sgt. Wayne Kapotak for the 1st Memorial Honor Guard Presentation for Alaska Territorial Guard in Bristol Bay.

Arriana Woods, age 7, performs with Sophia Wood’s Dance Group during the RPC Opening Ceremonies.Photo by Angela Gonzalez

“Smokehouse” $5000 or higherBristol Bay Native Corporation

Safe and Fear Free EnvironmentDillingham City School District

Peter Pan SeafoodsGCI Communication Corp.

Staples

“King” $2,500-$4,999American Seafoods

Bristol Bay Housing AuthorityBristol Bay Area Health Corporation –

Suicide Prevention ProgramBristol Bay Economic Development Corporation

“Sockeye” $1,000-$2,499Univ. of Alaska Fairbanks - Bristol Bay Campus

Alaska Native Tribal Health Consortium - Health Promotion/Disease Prevention

Wells Fargo

“Silver” $500 - $999Icicle Seafoods

Traditional Council of Togiak & Copper River Seafoods

Grant AviationAlaska Net & Supply Inc.

L&M SuppliesNapa Auto Parts

Nushagak CooperativesAlaska Native Tribal Health Consortium – Injury

Prevention Program

“Corks” $250 - $499N&N Market

Alaska Commercial CompanyDillingham Refuse

Curyung Tribal CouncilBristol Bay Air

Togiak Native Ltd.Little House Bed and Breakfast

Alaska West Supply / Beaver Creek B&B

“Ulu” $150 - $249Board Room Bed and Breakfast

DBA Home RepairSquaw Creek Boat Mover and Storage

Aleknagik Native Ltd.Agli Air Haul

LFS Inc.Bristol Alliance Fuels

Southcentral FoundationArctic ChiropracticDillingham Hotel

“Net-Hangers” $100 - $149Bristol ExpressChoggiung Ltd.

Stay Cool RefrigerationDiamond Center Hotel

E&J McArthur Enterprises

“Deckhands” $50 - $99Everts Air CargoFireweed FabricsPete’taq LodgeA & S Fish Inc.

Jane Sifsof Crafts

“Believers” $1 - $49Bristol Bay Eagle

Celena’s Mexican FoodTeddy’s Convenience Store

Neqleq VarietyCrafts by Judy Butler

Quyana Cakneq to the RPC Sponsors and Partners!We would like to express appreciation to the following organizations, businesses, individuals and community members that supported the RPC. This event was co-hosted by the Bristol Bay Native Association (BBNA) and the Rural Alaska Community Action Program, Inc. (RurAL CAP). Core funding for this conference was provided by the State of Alaska Department of Commerce, Community and Economic Development and the State of Alaska Department of Health & Social Services, Division of Behavioral Health.

Rural Alaska Community Action Program, Inc.731 E. 8th Ave. | Anchorage, AK 99501

Phone (907) 279-2511 l www.ruralcap.comJoin us at the next RPC in Fairbanks, Alaska in 2013!

Documents

RPC 2012 - Rural Alaska Community Action Program, Inc