1. family and parenting

VOLUME 21 NUMBER 27
The
SPRING 2013
Quinault Hosts 2013 Canoe Journey . . . 1, 5, 12
WIC and Food Distribution Dates . . . 2
Welcome New Employees . . . 2, 3, 4
Congratulations to Two Graduates . . . . 6, 7, 8
13th Annual Native Art Auction & Dinner. . . . . 8
Tribal Bear Trainings , Conference. . . 9
Annual Medical Update Conference. . 10
Comprehensive Cancer Control Overview . .11
Intertribal News
Quinault Nation Hosts 2013 Canoe Journey: ‘Honoring Our Warriors’
This photo was taken by Quinault Indian Nation (QIN) photographer Larry Workman. Larry currently manages the Centralized Communications
Program at the Quinault Indian Nation. The canoes will be landing near Pt. Grenville. This is how Larry describes this photo: “This was a dress rehearsal for
the first week in August 2013 when nearly 100 ocean canoes from coastal Indian tribes in Washington, Canada and other locations will gather for a potlatch.”
W
Return Service Requested
South Puget Intertribal Planning Agency
3104 S.E. Old Olympic Hwy.,
Shelton, WA 98584
Non-Profit
Organization
U.S. Postage Paid
Centralia, WA 98531
Permit #80
ithout noted Quinault educator and Elder
Emmett Oliver there might be no modern
canoe journey. Hard to imagine when Canoe Journey
has evolved into a cultural celebration of national
prominence. But grandparents, perhaps even parents,
may remember when laws forbid cultural gatherings,
the potlatch, and some forms of dancing. All illegal in
the U.S. and Canada from about 1943-1970.
But thanks
to Emmett Oliver,
considered by many
to be the ‘Father of
the Modern Canoe
Journey,’ there’s
been a resurgence
in gatherings,
dancing, songs,
and languages.
Emmett Oliver sat
on the Washington
State Centennial
Commission, along
with then First Lady
Jean Gardener and
then Secretary of
State Ralph Munro.
Emmett was in
charge of the Native
Emmett Oliver took the microphone when
American Canoe
Muckleshoot hosted the Journey in 2006.
ITN PAGE 1
Project for the Maritime Committee. As a committee
member he had envisioned the return of the canoes
as early as 1985.
Without Emmett Oliver the famed 1989
‘Paddle to Seattle’ may never have happened. The
Centennial Celebration initially included only Navy
and tall ships. No canoes. The State was convinced
that carving dugout canoes was a lost art. That
such canoes could only be found in museums.
Emmett prevailed and overcame each barrier.
He got permits for the giant logs from the U.S.
Forest Service (two for each participating tribe,
each properly blessed before going to the tribes
and their carvers). The trees, harvested under
the 1978 Religious Freedom Act because of the
canoe’s religious and ceremonial nature, went to the
Swinomish, Upper Skagit, Nooksack, and Lummi
Tribes. In the end Suquamish and Duwamish hosted
13 tribes and 18 canoes.
Emmett hoped for 100 canoes on the water. In
2012, when Squaxin Island so proudly hosted, there
were 104. The canoes are coming home to honor the
‘Father of the Modern Canoe Journey.’ Our hands
are up to Emmett and all the canoe families! x
Related photos, articles pages 5, 12.
SPRING 2013
Cassie Morley Joins SPIPA’s Healthy Families As A Home Visitor in Pierce County
She says, “I am the busy parent of a wonderful
12-year-old girl. I greatly enjoy live music and the
company of good friends and family.” Cassie and her
daughter have lived in the Olympia area for the past
eight years. “I originally grew up in rural Oregon. I
moved to Tacoma in 1994 to attend college.”
Cassie’s hobbies include spending time
outdoors, hiking, camping, or working in the garden.
Her extensive experience working with the families of
special needs children is a great asset to the Healthy
Families Project.
Home Visitors undergo several trainings:
Parents as Teachers (PAT), Positive Indian Parenting
(PIP), and the Ages and Stages of Fetal Alcohol
Spectrum Disorder Series.
Healthy Families Project Coordinator Pam
James describes their ‘Auntie/Grandma’ approach
to develop parenting skills,
allowing parents the opportunity
USDA Food Distribution Dates
to combine their traditional
cultural parenting practices
July 2013
August 2013
with the education models and
Squaxin Island July 8
Squaxin Island August 5
technologies of today.
Pt. Gamble S’Klallam July 11
Pt. Gamble S’Klallam August 8
The Healthy Families
Skokomish
July 16
Skokomish
August 13
Chehalis July 19
Chehalis August 16
Project shares these culturally
Cassie Morley joined the SPIPA Healthy
Families Program as a Home Visitor, April 15,
2013. “I love working with families and helping
parents to be successful.” She is primarily serving
families in Pierce County.
Her education and career has emphasized
the family. She says, “I attended the University
of Puget Sound in Tacoma and graduated with
a bachelor of arts in comparative religion and
philosophy. I then went on to the Seattle Midwifery
School where I fell in love with the work of
supporting families.”
“I have worked with expectant mothers
and parents of infants and toddlers for the last
13-years. I have been a student midwife, taught
child development, and offered parenting support
to many families. I have also worked extensively
with special needs children and their families.”
Nisqually July 25
September
Nisqually August 22
October
Squaxin Island September 9
Pt. Gamble S’Klallam September 5
Skokomish
September 12
Chehalis September 17
Nisqually September 20
Squaxin Island October 7
Pt. Gamble S’Klallam October 3
Skokomish
October 10
Chehalis October 17
Nisqually October 24
November
December
Squaxin Island November 5
Pt. Gamble S’Klallam November 7
Skokomish
November 12
Chehalis November 15
Nisqually November 21
Squaxin Island December 9
Pt. Gamble S’Klallam December 5
Skokomish
December 12
Chehalis December 20
Nisqually R-e-m-i-n-d-e-r: Please stick to the monthly schedule for the
USDA Food (Commodity) Program. Food distribution staff have|
other duties that they are responsible for on the days they are not issuing
commodities. If you’re unable to make the date, please call and schedule
an appointment with appropriate staff.
For USDA Food, call the Warehouse at Nisqually (360) 438-4216.
Chehalis Tribe
Nisqually Tribe
Cassie Morley, is the new Healthy Families
Home Visitor for the Pierce County site.
sensitive child development methods with
parents and caregivers, from prenatal to
age five. Coordinator Pam James says, “We
embrace our shared values – our children are
our future.” Cassie’s career truly reflects
that belief. x
WIC Dates for July-November 2013
Chehalis
July 11, 2013*
August 8, 2013
September 5, 2013
October 3, 2013
November 7, 2013
*Thursdays, 9:30-3:30
Nisqually
July 10, 2013*
August 14, 2013
September, 2013 - No WIC
October 9, 2013
November 13, 2013*
*Wednesdays, 9:00-3:00
Shoalwater Bay
July, 2013 - No WIC
August 6, 2013*
September, 2013 - No WIC
October 1, 2013
November, 2013 - No WIC
*Tuesdays, 10:00-1:00
Skokomish
July 17, 2013
August 21, 2013
September 25, 2013*
October 16, 2013
November 20, 2013
*4th Wednesday, 9:00-3:00
Squaxin Island
July 9, 2013*
August 13, 2013
September, 2013 - No WIC
October 8, 2013
November 12, 2013
*Tuesdays, 9-3:00
For missed WIC please contact Debbie Gardipee-Reyes at (360) 462-3227.
Note: these dates are future projections. While we strive to keep these dates
and times, they may be subject to change. This program is not always able
to accommodate walk-ins due to their other duties.
Skokomish Tribe
Shoalwater Bay Tribe
Squaxin Island Tribe
Kathirine Horne, Delegate
Arnold Cooper, Delegate
Joseph Pavel, Delegate
Lynn Clark, Alternate
Kathy Block, Alternate
Celeste Vigil, Alternate
Letters to the Editor: SPIPA Board Members and staff encourage all Tribal
SPIPA Intertribal News is published quarterly by the South Puget Intertribal Communities to submit letters for publication. After verification, letters with
Planning Agency (SPIPA). Amadeo Tiam, Executive Director
a return address and/or phone number, signed in ink by an individual or in3104 SE Old Olympic Hwy., Shelton, WA 98584 (360) 426-3990
dividuals, will be considered for publication. Call Marilee Bittner-Fawcett,
Editor (360) 462-3209 to submit article or event.
or toll-free at (800) 924-3984.
Dave Burnett, Delegate
Dan Gleason, Chairman
Jean Sanders, Delegate
Joe Cushman, Alternate
ITN PAGE 2www.spipa.org
SPRING 2013
The SPIPA Intertribal Professional Center (IPC) Welcomes Allen Poitra
Allen Poitra joined SPIPA January 28,
2013, as our Facilities Maintenance Worker.
Previously Allen worked for nearly five years at
Fir Tree Park Apartments in Shelton (an apartment
complex for those 62 and older).
Allen has strong family ties to Spencer
Lake where he currently resides. His brother and
sister live near Kamilche. Allen was born and
raised in Seattle where he attended Lindbergh
High School.
You could say Allen started accumulating
his skills at his father’s knee. Literally. His father
was a government maintenance worker and he
often accompanied his Dad to work sites.
Allen says, “I’m really good at hands-on
repairs . . . when something doesn’t work you
learn to fix it.” That may have something to do
with two of his hobbies: restoring classic cars and
maintaining a hobby stock car for a friend.
He likes to go to dirt track races and
National Hot Rod Association (NHRA) races. He
helps a friend maintain a hobby stock car that races
at Elma. Allen is currently working on a 1957 Ford
Courier delivery sedan, a two-door panel wagon.
Allen’s other hobbies include going to sweat
lodges, camping, and Sundance Ceremonies. He is a
descendent of the Chippewa Tribe.
Allen was attracted to SPIPA because he
has friends in the Squaxin Island Tribal community.
With friends and families ties here, he wanted to
stay within the area. x
Lynn Bowlen Joins Food Distribution Program (FDP)
The FDP Warehouse welcomes Lynn
Bowlen as Administrative/Certifier Assistant. If
you look at a list of employees you will see she’s
listed as Loretta. “Loretta is my first name, but
Lynn is what my family and friends have always
called me so I prefer it but will respond to either
one.” She was hired June 5, 2013. She is an
enrolled member of the Choctaw Nation
of Oklahoma.
Asked what interested her in this
position she answers, “My husband works for
Community Action Council in a similar position
so I was already familiar with food distribution
and the pleasure that comes from assisting
people. Being able to do a similar job with the
Native community was very exciting to me.”
Lynn has 30-plus years of office experience
(largely supervisory) as well as seven-plus years as a
real estate agent. That comes in handy since she and
her husband Rick have bought, lived in, and flipped
13 houses during their 27-year marriage. She laughs,
“Home Depot has been almost like a second home
at times.” Her other passion is travelling and she’s
lived in quite a few places.
While she was born in Southern Oregon,
she currently lives in the Tenino area. “I moved to
Washington 28 years ago from Montana. I’ve lived
in a variety of places including Oregon, Northern
Lynn’s picture taken by her
California, Wyoming, Montana, and Alaska.”
husband Rick Bowlen.
Lynn and Rick have two sons Jacob (24) and
apprentice with the Electricians Union and
Jared (23). She also has one granddaughter, Jaylee
(21 months old) who is Jared’s daughter. Jacob is an Jared is employed at Red Wind Casino. x
Food Distribution Program Welcomes John Oliveros
John Oliveros stopped travelling the world
long enough to join the Food Distribution
Program Warehouse team as the Warehouseman
and Truck Driver, June 4, 2013.
John says, “I am from Ilocano Pangasinan,
Philippines. I grew up on the island of Guam.”
In fact, he lived on Guam for 24 years. “I was
born in Okinawa, Japan. I am three-quarters
Filipino and a quarter Japanese.”
“Warehouse/truck driving attracted me
to this position. I love to drive commercial
vehicles. I have over eight-years of commercial
driving experience. I was a Navy contractor in
Guam. I hauled various cargo from bombs to
small ammunitions. My title was the explosive
driver/ordinance handler. I also stowed and
inventoried the ordinance in the magazines.
Pretty dangerous stuff.” He also transported
Navy personnel.
“My family lives with me. My wife’s
name is Crystal and my son, Aadon, will be
four-years-old on the Fourth of July. My wife is
enrolled in the Yavapai-Apache Nation, Camp
Verde, Arizona.”
John’s hobbies? “I am a musician, I love to
cook and hang out with family. I am easy going
and an attentive listener.” x
SPRING 2013www.spipa.org
ITN PAGE 3
SPIPA Welcomes Adrian Jalo as the New TANF/IT Support Technician Position
Adrian Jalo joined SPIPA May 8, 2013, as the
TANF IT Support Technician based at the Intertribal
Professional Center (IPC).
Adrian is taking on a new position approved by
the SPIPA Board of Directors. He provides technical
support to all TANF sites and SPIPA. Adrian is very
approachable. He says, “Feel free to call or email me
if you have any issues ([email protected]).”
He was previously employed by the Secretary
of State’s office, but says, “More recently I was in
school. I got my AAS in Computer Networking from
South Puget Sound Community College (SPSCC). I
have plans on pursuing my Bachelors of Science.”
When asked what attracted him to working
at SPIPA he says, “It seemed like a really fun and
relaxed environment with wonderful people.”
Ask him about his hobbies and he’ll tell you,
“I enjoy hiking, camping, kayaking, reading and
learning new things, fixing and playing on computers,
going to concerts, hanging out with friends.”
He says he has lots of family, then adds, “Most
notably my mother Sara Doran.” Sara is a long-time
SPIPA employee.
Adrian currently lives in Olympia, but was
originally from the Aberdeen/Hoquiam area. x
Richard LaRue Joins SPIPA as IPC/IT Support Specialist
Richard ‘Rick’ LaRue joined SPIPA June 4, 2013,
as the IT Support Technician, a position previously
held by Andre Champion.
Before coming to SPIPA Rick worked at Joint
Base Lewis McChord (JBLM). “I was assigned
administratively to 627 Communications Squadron on
McChord Field and worked operationally as a ‘Joint
Base IT Project Manager’ at the JBLM Lewis Main
Network Enterprise Center (NEC) planning IT for all
of McChord and customers on Lewis. I retired from the
USAF after nearly 24 years. I was assigned to JBLM
from Feb. 2010 to Dec. 2012 (2 years, 11 months.)
Rick, as he likes to be called, attended the
University of Maryland for three years seeking a
Bachelor of Science Information Systems degree
and earned an Associates Applied Science - Electronics
Technology degree from the Air University. He also
attended Telecommunications Specialist technical training
at Sheppard Air Force Base Texas.
He currently lives in Olympia with his “wonderful
wife and two awesome kids.” He attended high school
and a community college in Walla Walla, WA. He enjoys
sports, the outdoors, hiking, fishing, biking, mechanics,
and woodworking.
“My mentor as a young man was Philip Lane
Sr. from the Sioux Indian Lakota tribe; my great
Asked what he likes to do, he lets you
grandfather Leon and Phil lived near one another in
know quickly he likes to help people. “I
Hot Springs, South Dakota. My father was born in
volunteer weekends helping a paraplegic
Custer South Dakota while living on the Pine Ridge on his farm in Olalla, WA. I also help some
Indian Reservation.”
disabled families in Eatonville, WA.”x
DeeAnn White TANF Employment/Training Specialist at Pierce County Site
On June 3, 2013, DeeAnn White joined
SPIPA TANF as the Employment and Training
Specialist for the Pierce County
TANF site.
“I was attracted to this position
because of my experience working with
Native families, primarily in workforce
development and social services. I have
experience working with individuals
from the Flathead, Blackfeet, Crow,
Fort Peck, Rocky Boy’s, and Fort
Belknap Reservations in Montana.
“I believe my work and understanding of current job search strategies
and working with families with diverse
backgrounds will allow me to help our
families with addressing employment
and educational barriers while bringing
understanding, compassion and a desire
to serve.”
She has worked at other non-profits. “I
have worked for non-profit and government
agencies focused on
helping individuals
address employment
and education barriers.
“I have seven years
experience working
with individuals going
through crisis as a
domestic violence and
transitional housing
case manager with
YWCA at Missoula
and Spokane.”
“For the past fourplus years I worked
under the Workforce
Investment Act with
Low-Income Adults,
ITN PAGE 4 www.spipa.org
Dislocated Workers, and Youth while employed
with Goodwill and Employment Security.” In
December, 2010, she moved to a newly created
position at the Lakewood WorkSource Office to
assist the long-term unemployed.
She has a Bachelors in Social Work from
the University of Montana (2004). She grew up
in the Missoula, Montana area. She relocated
to Tacoma (the city of her birth) in 2010 to be
closer to her family.
She has two sons (19 and 15) and is
engaged. “We recently (this past March)
purchased a home in Tacoma off the 512 and I-5
area.” Her mother, two uncles, two aunts, and
eight cousins live in Tacoma, while one brother
lives in Post Falls, Idaho.
DeeAnn loves to be outdoors, working in
her yard, and enjoys the water – lakes, river, and
ocean. “Thank you for welcoming me to SPIPA. I
look forward to meeting you!” x
SPRING 2013
Some History from the 1989 ‘Paddle To Seattle,’ the Birth of the Modern Journey
F
or some 8,000 years (or more) the dugout canoe was
an economic necessity, like a railroad or highway, for
Pacific Northwest and North Coast tribes.
In 1985 Emmett Oliver (Quinault), a prominent
educator and retired Coast Guard commander, conceived the
idea of bringing Native canoes to the shores of Puget Sound
to celebrate the 1989 Washington State Centennial.
Thirteen tribes showed interest and canoes came from
Washington and Canada to Suquamish, to make the historic
journey to the shores of Shilshole Bay.
But in 1985 dugout canoes were nearly a lost art.
Emmett’s idea was to have the tribes carve their own
canoes, assemble at a rendezvous, and paddle across Puget
Sound to Seattle. The actual work began in 1987. Some
tribes had not carved a canoe for over 50 years; some tribes
had never done so.
Carving workshops were formed and finally, framed by This photograph was taken July 21, 1989 as the Quileute and Hoh Tribes paddled across Elliott
the rising skyline of the Seattle, and according to Emmett’s Bay toward Alki, with a final destination of Golden Garden. This photo was shared by Fred Poyner
daughter Marilyn Bard, 18 canoes paddled across the Sound. IV, Digital Collections Curator, Washington State Historical Society, who attributed the photo to
Emmett followed aboard a Coast Guard command vessel. A
Seattle Times photographer Nancy Bartley.
crowd of about 5,000 people lined the shore for the July 21,
1989 ‘Paddle to Seattle.’ A roar of encouragement arose from the beach in a
great surge of pride for the carvers, the canoes, and the paddlers who performed
as though they had carved and paddled canoes forever. It was the birth of the
modern canoe journey we all enjoy today as well as a cultural resurgence.
Compare that early crowd of 5,000 to the 40,000 people who attended
when the Squaxin Island Tribe hosted the 2012 Canoe Journey. This year the
Quinault Nation has been working toward the goal of raising $1 million to
host as many as 15,000 people a day. It’s a huge financial obligation using no
government funds.
Each year a different tribe hosts the journey. In 2014 the Heiltsuk Nation
will host Canoe Journeys at Bella Bella, British Columbia. x
Thanks to author, speaker, and cultural leader Philip H. Red Eagle
(Salish/Dakota ancestry) for this ‘Paddle to Seattle’ photo taken by
Robin Patterson. Phil has been involved in the canoe resurgence since
1993. There wasn’t enough room to include all the photos he tracked
down. Please check SPIPA’s Facebook page to see the 1989 photos so
generously shared by Robin Patterson and Susan Holland.
2013 Draft Route Dates
This aerial shot was taken by the Squaxin Island Tribe when they hosted in 2012. Bud Bay Inlet
filled with canoe – 104 to be exact. So many they won’t all fit in this picture. The Squaxin Island
Tribe did an impressive job of hosting the 2012 Canoe Journey. If you visit paddletosquaxin.org
you can link to the Tribe’s Picasa Photo Gallery. Squaxin Island did an amazing job
of preserving the 2012 Journey in their photo gallery.
• July 14 Nooksack/Skokomish
• July 15 Lummi/Squaxin
• July 16 Samish/Nisqually
• July 17 Swinomish/Puyallup
• July 18 Tulalip/Muckleshoot
• July 19 Suquamish
• July 20 Little Boston
• July 21 Port Townsend
• July 22 Jamestown
• July 23-24 Elwha
• July 25 Pillar Point
• July 26 Neah Bay • July 27 Ozette
• July 28-29 La Push
• July 30 Hoh River
• July 31 Queets
• August 1 Quinault
SPRING 2013 www.spipa.org
ITN PAGE 5
Congratulations to SPIPA’s 2013 Graduate Robin Gibbs for earning her degree
M
any people still hold onto the stereotype of a
college student that leaves high school and
moves off to live at college. Today that “typical”
college student is the exception, not the rule. In fact
just 15% of college students attend college while
living on campus.
Such students have quickly been replaced by
pioneering colleges (and students) such was WGU
Washington, the only state-endorsed all-online
nonprofit university.
WGU (Western Governors University),
established in 2011, held its second commencement
ceremony May 18, 2013, in Benaroya Hall. More
than 500 students received their degrees this year,
nearly double last year’s class of 270. SPIPA’s
Robin Gibbs was among those graduates.
“I decided to return to get my bachelor’s
degree done. I was frustrated I hadn’t finished it the
first time.” She had received her Associate’s Degree
from Pierce College, then made it to the half-way
point while studying for her B.A. in Business
Administration through University of Phoenix.
“I moved out of the Kent area to go to Grays
February 2013 at WGU. It took a little less than
ten months to finish.” She did an extensive online
search and found that WGU was not only the most
affordable, but it best fit her needs.
Asked how she balanced working full time with
her course work, she laughs and says “No free time.
I got home from work then studied two to six hours a
day.” Once she pays down her students loans she may
consider pursuing an advanced accounting degree.
Education Secretary Arne Duncan praised
WGU as a lower-cost online nonprofit institution
whose students earn degrees not by putting in a set
number of hours but through demonstrated mastery
of their field. He noted that such programs are
now the exception, then added. “I want them to be
the norm.”
A recent Harris Interactive Study shows nearly
Robin Gibbs provided this graduation picture.
100% of employers who hire a WGU graduate would
Harbor. At the time there were no strictly online hire another, 98% agree WGU graduates meet or
schools and I couldn’t afford to drive to Kent for exceed their expectations, and 98% consider WGU
classes. So I stopped going to school.”
graduates better prepared than graduates from other
Robin received her Bachelor of Science in universities. Congratulations Robin! x
Accounting. “I started April 2012 and finished
See Robin? She’s in the front row. Looked through a lot of WGU alum photos before finding this one. Robin’s arm is in her sling so she ia easy to spot.
ITN PAGE 6
www.spipa.org
SPRING 2013
Will Marchant Earns Degree from TESC, Praises VR Program for His Success
Y
ou may remember Will Marchant from the Summer/Fall 2012 edition
of The Intertribal News. He shared how, as a Squaxin Island Vocational
Rehabilitation (VR) consumer, he got the help and encouragement he needed to
return to college and finish his degree.
Will dropped by the SPIPA office to share his excitement. He left three color
pictures and a two-page “thank-you” to Skokomish, Squaxin Island, SPIPA, and
all his outreach workers. “At this time, I would like to fully acknowledge the
support, privilege, and opportunity the Squaxin Island Tribe, Skokomish
Tribe, and SPIPA program has given me. Without this support I would not
be writing this!”
“On June 27, 2010, I found the providence within myself to make
the biggest life altering decision of my life. I had to make a commitment
and rationalize my thinking and behavioral strategies. My inclination and
determination to stop drinking alcohol was one of my prolific discoveries that I
acquired. I am not kidding when I say this was the hardest adversity that I would
challenge. Going through the initial ‘hump’ of abstinence, I did alone, and was so
very difficult.
“On December 22, 2010 I entered the Northwest Indian Treatment center.
At this point I took every opportunity to comprehend the disease of alcoholism
and learn effective strategies to subside my irrational tendencies. (I had to literally
start over.) With the help of outreach I decided to try something new. I entered the
Shelton Oxford House. The Oxford house is different from a “half way” house
in terms that residents control the structure and stability of the house. It is run
democratically and certain members are elected into office positions to regulate
an effective house. Oxford house offers longevity without the anxiety of getting
kicked out after six months as opposed to a “half way” house. There are three
rules at Oxford: 1) No drinking or drug use; 2) Pay your E.E.S (Equal Expense
Shared); 3) No disruptive behavior.
“During outpatient treatment, I met a gentlemen who worked for (National
Geographic (in Post Production). He gave me the opportunity to work part time. I
continue working with him today in order to pay my bills.”
Will Marchant’s friends gather around him to celebrate his graduation from TESC.
Will provided these photos and this article. Thanks Will.
“During my first year of recovery it was a significant emblem of my recovery
and myself! I realized how the ‘Man in the Mirror’ really looked at himself. I saw a
man who lost his pride, his dignity, his integrity, his self-assurance and most of all his
faith. To re-invent myself others in recovery encouraged me to: always ask questions,
learn by example, treat others as you would be treated, take risks, do not put yourself
in vulnerable situations, don’t be afraid to ask for help and most important just don’t
drink. You are not cured.
“After graduating from the outpatient program I was elected as the Shelton
Oxford House President, was re-elected four times, and Treasurer three. I am
a very proficient advocate
of the sustainability and
effectiveness of a well
democratically run house.
“I started volunteering my
time with the Chapter Regional
Oxford houses as the elected
Chapter 4, Chair Person for
Thurston and Mason County
Re-entry.
“I am also a member of
the MCRC (Mason Country
Re-entry Coalition), and
recently volunteered for the
Skokomish Tribe Adult Basic
Education as a facilitator, for
tribal members, and non-tribal
members, pursuing their
GED certificate.
“In November 2011 I was
in a conference with June Krise
of the Squaxin Island Vocational
Rehabilitation Program. June
asked me what I wanted to
The red cedar box contains an ‘elk bone’ which represents the Elk Valley
accomplish in my life.
Sundance. The bone represents commitment to men’s wellness. Raymond
Will Marchant was also gifted a walking stick with
‘Cooney’ Johns and David Lopeman presented the box to Will who will pass
Continued
on
page
eight.
a white eagle feather.
the box on to the next recipient at the next Sundance.
SPRING 2013 www.spipa.org
ITN PAGE 7
Will Marchant
Earns Degree from TESC, Praises VR Program for His Success
Continued from page seven.
“Knowing that I had a default on my Stafford
loan from my previous higher educational
experience, I told her that there was absolutely no
way that I could return to further my education. The
Squaxin Tribe and the SPIPA program gave me that
opportunity . . . What!
“January 9, 2012, I began class as a registered
senior! I had to take additional classes which by all
means I was up for this challenge. I had to make an
important decision to emphasize a study of interest.
(major) I chose ‘Laws and Policies of Indian Child
Welfare and Tribal Governance.’ I chose this because
I was adopted before the Indian Child Welfare Act of
1978, and I was not a recipient of Title IV-E program
which subsidizes cost of care for eligible youth and
reunification of foster children.
“I was very much involved with the assimilation
and oppression that Native Americans face even today.My
Professor[s] Gary Peterson (Skokomish Tribe) and Yvonne
Peterson (Chehalis Tribe) were genuinely concerned
about the systematic oppression in today’s society while
reminding us to never forget how to express oneself, as an
individual, or with the conformity of a powerful alliance.
“Be proud of who you are! No matter what race,
ethnic or cultural background that influences you. To
stand and have “Our voices heard.” We, as students
had to implement strategies and use effective critical
thinking skills.
“I want to thank Yvonne and Gary for sponsoring
my trip to the Thirty-First Annual “Protecting Our
Children” Indian Child Welfare Conference in Tulsa,
Oklahoma. April 7-10, 2013. I was never more proud
to be a Native American surrounded by professionals and
colleagues that sounded the impact of an Alliance
and Cohort!
“Today, I write with more poise, vigor and
self-assurance. I have slowly gained some of the
most important characteristics in which makes
me a better person. I would also like to thank the
hundreds of beautiful people I have met in the three
years of my recovery and growth. I would also
like to emphasis to the individual who feels lost or
alone. Believe in yourself! Make things happen!
“Do not wait until tomorrow, for tomorrow
may never come. On June 14, 2103 I had the
privilege to walk with nearly one thousand college
graduates to receive my “Miracle Degree.” I say
this with a prayer, or as my professors would say
a “POEM.” x
AHO! William Marchant,
(Nez Perce/Wenatchi)
Tribe’s Eagles Landing. Little Creek Casino Resort
offered an event night package that included tickets for
two to the show plus dinner and an overnight stay while
Alderbrook Resort and Spa also offered a one-night stay.
Great Wolf Lodge offered a one night stay in a suite.
Squaxin Island Elder Paula Henry donated a
woven cedar hat. Chholing Taha (Cree) donated an
original painting. Other faithful donors included Andy
Peterson (Skokomish), Odin Lonning (Tlingit), and
Roger Fernandes (Lower Elwha S’Klallam). First time
contributors included Jennifer Johns (Squaxin
Island), Terry Torres (Tlingit), and Glenn Sutt.
Pawnee Brown (Cherokee/Choctaw) carved a flute.
Squaxin Island’s Matthew Bell contributed an original
as did Robert Upham (Gros Ventre/Assiniboine
[Nakota]/Dakota/Salish/Pend O’Reille Tribes).
You may notice a theme here – this event is
supported by Native Artists and businesses. Revenue
raised at this event feeds an endowment fund that
helps to assure Elder and youth programs are not so
subject to grant fluctuation. x
Thirteenth Annual SPIPA Native Art Auction and Dinner Well Attended!
T
he thirteenth annual SPIPA Native Art Auction
and Dinner offered art, ambience, and the
opportunity to support the Elders and youth of the
five SPIPA tribes: Chehalis, Nisqually, Shoalwater
Bay, Squaxin Island, and Skokomish.
This year’s event took place at the Lucky Eagle
Casino and attendance remained stable around 200
or more.
There were 35 items in the live auction, ranging
from a couple of Pendleton blankets to a drum to
entertainment packages such as a round of golf for four
at Salish Cliffs and a getaway for two at the Chehalis
Auction attendance held strong at 200 or more people. This was encouraging considering that a
scheduling conflict caused the auction to be shifted from November, 2012, to April, 2013.
ITN PAGE 8
www.spipa.org
SPIPA Executive Director, left, greets Chehalis Elder
Curtis DuPuis.
SPRING 2013
Skokomish
Tribal BEAR Training One of Seven Provided to Tribal Clinic Staff
by Pawnee Brown, Tribal BEAR
Training Coordinator
On May 8,2013, twenty healthcare
professionals from the Skokomish Health
clinic spent the morning attending a tribal
BEAR Project training. The topic for the
training was Primary HIV Infection along with
substance use and HIV.
The instructor for the presentation was
Dr. Hillary Liss, Associate Professor from
University of Washington. Dr. Liss (pictured
at right) has provided training in the past for
the Skokomish Nation and is well received as
a premier trainer providing infectious disease
training and education for many of the tribal
clinics here in the Pacific Northwest.
This year the SPIPA Tribal BEAR
Project has provided seven trainings to
clinic staff at the Squaxin Island, Chehalis,
Nisqually, Shoalwater Bay, Skokomish, Quileute and
Port Gamble Nations.
Dr. Hillary Liss provided infection disease training.
Tribal BEAR provided two regional
training sessions (one in Canyonville,
Oregon, one in Spokane, Washington), as
well as our Annual HIV/Hep C Medical
Update Conference held at the Little
Creek Casino.
This is the 11th year the Tribal BEAR
Project has provided training to Indian
Country. The trainings always provide
the most updated information connected
to HIV, hepatitis and other sexually
transmitted diseases to tribal clinic staff.
Tribal BEAR is looking forward to
a twelfth and another successful year of
regional training sessions, collaborating
with public health departments,
community health organizations, service
providers and tribal clinicians throughout
the Pacific Northwest. x
SPIPA Tribal BEAR’s Regional Trainings, Yearly Conference Successful
by Pawnee Brown, Tribal BEAR
Training Coordinator
he first Tribal BEAR regional training in
Southern Oregon (Canyonville), March 14,
2013 was a great success. After a slow start in
registration we had 42 participants and six Tribes
from the region represented: Burns, Coquille, Cow
Creek, Cowlitz, Klamath, and Warm Springs.
The topics covered by our physician trainer
Dr. Brian Wood were HIV, sexually transmitted
infections (STI), and Hepatitis C, in which the
participating staff showed the greatest interest.
T
We also offered a session on Risk
from the local health department that work
Assessment for Native Americans, developed
with the Tribes and from the HIV Care
by Dr. Fransing Daisy (Cree) who is a licensed
Alliance in Umpqua, Oregon. Both agencies
clinical psychologist.
offered an overview of their services.
The training was
The evaluations were very
hosted in collaboration with
positive with lots of appreciation
the Portland Indian Health
for our willingness to come to
Services and the Northwest
Southern Oregon and work with
Portland Area Indian Health
these rural, isolated Tribes. Board. Three staff members
The annual Tribal BEAR
from these agencies joined
Medical Update Conference was
us for this training. Two
held on Friday, May 3, 2013, at
of them spoke at lunch
Little Creek Resort. This annual
about the importance of
conference is designed for tribal
electronic record reminders
clinic staff and allied health care
for annual HIV testing and
providers.
Hep C screening. The CDC
The popular medical
recommends that all persons
conference was free and offered
between the ages of 13 and
an update on HIV, as well as two
64 be tested at least once for
important sessions on Mental
HIV and that all persons born
Health, Drugs, and HIV. The
Licensed clinical psychologist Dr. afternoon was dedicated to
between 1945 and 1965 be
Fransing Daisy (Cree), presented Hepatitis C, beginning with an
screened for Hepatitis C.
a session on Risk Assessment for overview of the new screening
Also participating
Native Americans. This session
were a number of nursing
was developed by ‘Dr. Daisy’ as guidelines and medication
students who are doing their
regimens, followed by two panels:
she is affectionately known.
internship in local area tribal
one on patient issues and the other
clinics. The training was very interactive with
on compassionate care and other service
great questions asked by the participants.
programs to assist those who have Hep C. x
Other participants included representatives
Dr. Brian Wood, SPIPA’s Tribal Bear
physician trainer, covered HIV, sexually
transmitted infections (STI), and Hepatitis C.
SPRING 2013 www.spipa.org
ITN PAGE 9
2013
Annual Medical Update Conference on HIV
and Hepatitis C
recommendations. Tattoo parlors are not federally or
by Pawnee Brown, Tribal BEAR Training Coordinator
virus is blood to blood contact from an infected person.
he Tribal BEAR Project hosted its annual Medical The virus is commonly transmitted through illicit drug use state regulated, and standards vary by tattoo artist.
The Alliance for Professional Tattooists
Update on HIV and hepatitis on May 3, 2013, at the either by snorting drugs an by injection drug use through
recommends
finding a tattoo artist who always wears
the sharing of contaminated equipment.
Little Creek Conference Center.
disposable
gloves,
has a clean workspace washed down
Sharing straws or snorting drugs was a common
The South Puget Intertribal Planning Agency
with either bleach or a viral killing solution, and uses
(SPIPA) Tribal BEAR Project offers an annual Medical practice in the 1960s, 1970s, and early 1980s. Many
people who experimented with drugs do not think they are single-use disposable needle and ink kits. It’s your
Update Conference. Trainers include practicing
at risk. Another risk was if you had a blood transfusion or responsibility to ask these important questions before
physicians from the University of Washington, tribal
getting a tattoo or piercing.
received any blood
clinicians, non-profit organizations, and
Get tested and know your status for HIV or Hep
products before
public health representatives. These
C. Both are simple, anonymous, and confidential tests
1992. Before 1992
clinicians, and community members,
blood products were you can request from any healthcare provider. If you’re
come together to learn more about
afraid of your confidentiality at your local clinic, home
not screened for
HIV and Hepatitis C, as well as other
testing is available at your local pharmacy or online.
infectious disease
infectious diseases important to tribal
Many communities provide free anonymous HIV
such as Hep C and
communities. It also offers a chance to
testing but Hep C testing is not as common – except
HIV. Hep C testing
exchange ideas and best practices.
through a clinic or medical provider. Remember you
is vital because the
The presentations and information
chance for getting rid have to request a test for HIV or Hepatitis C.
shared by providers from around
The Tribal BEAR Project is looking forward
of the virus is better
Washington and Oregon made for a
to
another
year of upcoming conferences throughout
at the early stage
thought-provoking and educational
Washington
and Oregon. We want to bring the most
than the later stage,
event. Attendees received the most
or what is called the current information available on the prevention and
updated information on prevention and
treatment of HIV, hepatitis and sexually transmitted
chronic stage.
treatment to share with our tribal and
diseases to tribal clinicians and through them to the
Both diseases
community members. Dr. Karina Uldall
(HIV and Hep C) are community members.
spoke on Mental Health issues often
This coming year the Tribal BEAR Project and
preventable, but there
connected with infectious diseases such
Dr. Karina Uldall spoke on Mental Health
SPIPA will be collaborating with several organizations
is
new
information
as HIV or hepatitis.
issues often connected with HIV and Hep. C.
showing Hep C can and agencies and will provides local training sessions
There was a lot of emphasis on
(one for each SPIPA Tribe), two regional training
HCV (better known as Hep C) at this year’s conference. also be spread through having unprotected sex with an
Dr. Brian Wood, Associate Professor at the University infected person, the same route of transmission as for HIV. sessions (Spokane and Warm Springs) and one Medical
The trainers and Pawnee wanted everyone to know Update Conference. Collaborations include, but are not
of Washington – who specializes in HIV and hepatitis
that Hepatitis C is the leading cause of liver cancer and the limited to, Indian Health Services, Northwest Portland
at Harborview Medical Center – presented updated
Area Indian Health Board, local county health districts,
information on prevention, transmission and treatment most common reason for liver transplants in the United
along with Oregon and Washington state public health
States. About 70 percent of people infected will develop
in the afternoon session.
departments and our funder, the Northwest AIDS
chronic liver disease, and many will die from cirrhosis
Hep C is sometimes called the ‘Silent Killer’
Education and Training Center (NWAETC).
and/or liver cancer.
or the ‘Silent Epidemic.’ Pawnee Brown, Training
We also collaborate with community based
Liver transplants are expensive ($250,000 to
Coordinator for the Tribal BEAR Project, told the
$500,000) and hard to get. Many people die while on the organizations such as the Hepatitis C Education Project
audience that it is estimated that five
and the Caring Ambassador Project for Hepatitis C.
transplant list. The trainers
million Americans are now infected and
For more information on HIV or hepatitis please
also said many will have
living with the Hep C virus.
contact
the Tribal BEAR Project at (360) 462-3225.
antibodies for hepatitis and
“Many of our Tribal Members do
will have cleared the virus. It To attend one of our upcoming Tribal BEAR Project
not know they are even infected,” said
is good prevention to get your conferences and trainings (in Washington or Oregon)
Pawnee. In August, 2012, the Centers
hepatitis A and B vaccinations please visit the South Puget Intertribal Planning
for Disease Control and Prevention
Agency web
if you haven’t had
(CDC) recommended all baby boomers
site at www.
them. But one thing you
be tested. Many tribal members born
spipa.org.
should know is there is
between 1945 thru 1965 are coming up
You may also
no vaccination for Hep
HCV positive when given the antibody
call Pawnee
C, which is why it is
test for Hepatitis C after presenting
at (360) 462important to get tested
symptoms.
3225; contact
for HCV.
You ask, what are the symptoms?
Jutta Riediger,
Pawnee recomSame symptoms as are common with
Tribal BEAR
mends people have
many other viruses, such as a cold
Project Coorditattoos or piercings done
or the flu. It is very common to have
nator, at (360)
by trained professionals.
reoccurring symptoms for many years
462-3244, or
There have been no
and not know you have any virus. The
email her at
known reports of hepatitis
most common reoccurring symptom for
riediger@spipa.
C outbreaks linked
Hep C is very extreme fatigue.
to professional tattoo
Hep C is also infecting our
Pawnee Brown (left), assisted by Joseph org. x
Harborview Medical Center’s Dr.
parlors in the U.S. if they
Reyes (right), robe SPIPA employee
younger people who are getting tattoos
Brian Wood, presented updated
and long-time conference volunteer
and piercings, also known as body art.
information on the prevention and follow the Alliance for
Debbie Gardipee-Reyes.
Professional Tattooists
The most common way to transmit the
treatment of HIV and Hep C.
ITN PAGE 10www.spipa.org
SPRING 2013
T
SPIPA Comprehensive Cancer Control Program Has Busy Spring!
by Kathryn Akeah, Outreach Specialist
PIPA’s Comprehensive Cancer Control Program
(CCCP) had a busy spring putting on three
conferences in three months. The CCCP focuses
on prevention, early detection, and survivorship
support to lessen the burden of cancer on the five
SPIPA tribes.
When looking at prevention, a large portion of
cancer risk is related to unhealthy diets, obesity and
commercial tobacco abuse. These are the factors
most under our control. Focusing on wellness can’t
eliminate cancer risk, but it certainly can reduce it.
S
Native Men’s Wellness Workshop
The first spring conference was the Native
Men’s Wellness Workshop. Contrary to stereotypes,
men do talk.
Saturday closed with a prioritizing session
on key focus groups ideas. Even with this intense
workshop session, more work needs to be done
to reduce the focus further and involve more key
players and community members.
Youth were able to learn public speaking
skills through performing Shabub3sh
traditional plays, graphic design and campaign
messaging through a poster making class
and they practiced their interview skills in a
Cancer Survivor/Caregiver Conference wellness video.
This year also focused on mental wellness
The next conference began on April 5, 2013,
with
morning
speakers on historical trauma,
at the Eagle’s Landing Hotel. It was a tight squeeze
social
identity,
and two craft activities: one on
Friday night as participants gathered for the opening
letting
go
of
trauma
and one on remembrance.
Mocktails and Massages social hour of the SPIPA
It
was
a
lot
of
information
packed into a very
Cancer Survivor and Caregiver Conference.
short
time.
The conference room overflowed as over
This was spring in CCCP, look for us at
90 registered participants enjoyed crafts, snacks,
our summer events! x
beverages, and chair and table massages.
The Cancer Survivor and Caregiver Conference included workshops, such as the one
shown above. – Photo by CCCP Volunteer, courtesy of Kathryn Akeah
Early Saturday morning participants
headed to the Gathering Room where they
attended workshops, had a question
and answer (Q & A) session with
an oncologist, learned nutrition tips,
SPIPA CCCP Outreach Specialist was one of the presenters and laughed through ‘chairoebics.’ A
at the Men’s Wellness Workshop. – Photo by Fred Shortman favorite was the Q & A session with
Dr. Jay Zatzkin, MD, an internist with
This year’s workshop, held at the Great Wolf 35-years specializing in oncology.
Lodge March 15-16, focused on just that: talking.
Dr. Jay was vibrant and approachable as
Sixty-eight men registered for this year’s workshop, he answered difficult questions. The audience
coming from all five SPIPA tribal communities.
asked about types of cancer, bad treatment at
Friday evening started with a presentation
the doctor’s office, and why sometimes cancer
on cancer and men’s wellness. Men are leading
comes back. Dr. Jay was an advocate for
our tribes in many healthy habits: they smoke less
patients’ rights with his rally cry of “get up, get
and exercise more. However, participants were
out” if a doctor doesn’t treat you right.
shocked to find out that only 15% of men are
Thanks, Don Secena, for cooking salmon
getting the recommended daily servings of fruits
for our lunch!
and vegetables. The presentation was followed
Native Youth POWER Conference
by several of our key elders who talked about the
Eighty-five youth and their chaperones
importance of health and traditional ways.
came to the 2013 Native Youth POWER
Saturday’s focus groups made numerous
Conference, May 24-25, 2013, at the Great
comments about eating healthy and incorporating
Wolf Lodge. POWER stands for Promoting
more traditional foods into daily life, smoking,
The Youth POWER Conference participants gathered
substance abuse, mental wellness, involving more Outreach and Wellness Empowerment at the for a group shot. – Photo by CCCP Volunteer, courtesy
of Kathryn Akeah
Reservations.
youth and more.
SPRING 2013
www.spipa.org
ITN PAGE 11
Quinault Nation Hosts 2013 Journey – A ‘Homecoming,’ A Dream Fulfilled
Marvin Oliver’s ‘100 Canoes’ A Tribute To His Father’s Vision
as read by Marilyn Bard*
“As the spirits of the past and those of the present ascend from the sky, we join
and become one.
“Spirit canoes in the clouds are of the past, present and those of the future.
As the Salish canoe drifts down through the mist, it represents the essence of our
traditional canoe heritage.
“The “new” canoe reminds us of our commitment to succeed in our Journeys.
Our determination to pursue new and creative ideas is founded in tradition. To
ensure that our canoes are and will always be the best we can offer. Share your
knowledge with others as they did in past.
“The Raven canoe above them represents our kinship with our neighbors from
the north. Canoe Journey has no boundaries.
The village flames near the beach remind us that our traditional Native values
are burning bright. Keep stoking the fire and never let it burn out. Share and pass
on your traditions for future generations to enjoy.
“The petroglyphs in the sky are symbolic of the Squaxin people. It belongs to
them for others to appreciate and admire. It looks upon us as one. We are of one
family. A canoe family.
“Mount Rainier behind our Salish ‘village of the past’ represents our majestic
world. Take care of it.
“The raven among the clouds is our messenger. He carries our stories our
songs around the world for all to hear.
“A Salish welcome figure near the beach invites his guests to their village with
pride and open arms. Respect your welcome.
“Emmett's canoe, the Willapa Spirit, views the 102 invited canoes with pride
and respect. Etched in the surrounding waters of the Northwest, his spirited vision,
once only a delightful dream, is now fulfilled.” x
*Renowned Quinault artist Marvin Oliver gave permission to use
this image. He created and gifted this to the Squaxin Island Tribe,
hosts of the 2012 Canoe Journey. This image marks a milestone
as Emmett Oliver was able to see his vision of 100 canoes on the
water fulfilled. At the 2012 Journey 104 canoes were counted.
Marilyn Bard, daughter of Emmett Oliver and sister to the artist
Marvin, read what her brother wrote about the image and its
meaning at the gifting. (See the statement, top left.)
For more information about the 2013 Journey
please visit www.paddletoquinault.org. There are
informational maps and a video.
You can also visit their Facebook page.
Just before press time for this newspaper, Larry Workman (Quinault
Indian Nation photographer) emailed a color version of the photo
shown at right. Previously, the editor had only seen a black and
white archival photo of Emmett Oliver speaking to media and
bystanders at the 1989 ‘Paddle to Seattle.’ We appreciate Larry
sending us this color photo!
ITN PAGE 12
www.spipa.org
SPRING 2013