Tanana Chiefs Conference: TCC Weekly Episode 71

Welcome to TCC Weekly, where each week we bring you the latest news from Tanana Chiefs Conference.

Welcome to TCC Weekly. I'm Sharon Hildebrand, Chief Chairman of Tanana Chiefs Conference. There are several important updates from the region, so let's get into the details. Tomorrow is Election Day. If you haven't already voted, make your plan.

You can find out where to vote and learn more about the candidates and ballot measures in this year's election by visiting elections.alaska.gov.

Over the past month, we've shared why the Tanana Chiefs Conference Executive Board has urged Alaskans to vote no on Ballot Measure 2. The measure would repeal Alaska's open primary system. Rank choice voting and campaign finance disclosures protections. The decisions made by our elected leaders have a real impact on our villages, families, and way of life. TCC believes every Alaskan should have the opportunity to participate in the election process and help choose the leaders who make decisions affecting communities across our state.

Exercise your right to vote, make your voice heard, and join TCC in voting no on Ballot Measure 2 on November 3rd. Last week at the First Alaskans Institute Elders and Youth Conference, TCC's Victor Joseph honored Kykuk elder Emil Nadi for his decades of contributions and sacrifices made to the people of our region. Emil was presented with a Chief's Necklace and recognized for being a true leader. Following the recognition, a Dinaka Koykon panel highlighted the importance of preserving Native languages and passing cultural knowledge onto future generations. The panel served as a meaningful reminder of the dedication of our elders language speakers, and community members whose efforts continue to preserve our languages, honor our history, and ensure our traditions are carried forward for generations to come.

At last week's Alaska Federation of Natives annual convention, TCC's Chief Administrative Officer Victor Joseph was elected to a 2-year term as co-chair of AFN. We also want to congratulate Pearl Shanar for being reelected as our village rep for the Interior, who is also a Mentow tribal member. We proudly congratulate Victor and Pearl on this well-deserved achievement. A dedicated and respected advocate for Alaska Native people across our state, Victor brings a strong voice and a deep commitment to advancing the priorities of our tribes, Alaska Native corporations, and organizations. In other news, the TCC Public Safety Department was well represented at the 2026 VPSO Awards Luncheon in Anchorage.

First Sergeant David Atterbury was recognized as the 2026 VPSO Program Coordinator of the Year. While Nathan Becker, Mark Hagelin, and Emir Dubose each received Director's Commendation for Honorable Service awards. These statewide recognitions reflect the professionalism, leadership, and commitment to service demonstrated by TCC's public safety personnel. Together, the awards highlight the strength of TCC's public safety department and its ongoing commitment to supporting safe, healthy, and resilient tribal communities. Do you know an elder whose freezer needs fish?

The Urban Elder Fish Distribution is coming up on November 24th and 25th. This is for elder beneficiaries age 65 and older who live in Fairbanks and North Pole. You can register the eligible elders in your life by by visiting our website at www.tananacheefs.org.

If you have questions, reach out to Holly Edwards, Executive Admin Assistant, at 907-452-8251, extension 3032. TCC's Fall Summit is just a few weeks away, taking place November 12th and 13th. The summit will bring tribal leaders and participants from across the region together for 2 days of discussion, collaboration, and information sharing. This year's event will feature main panel discussions and breakout sessions covering important issues and priorities affecting our tribes and communities. Participants will have the opportunity to hear from subject matter experts ask questions, and exchange ideas.

Additional details, including registration information and breakout session options, will be shared soon. Be sure to follow TCC on Facebook and Instagram for the latest updates as we get closer to the summit. Did you know that TCC Wellness and Prevention has many resources available to help prevent and and stop tobacco use in your community. We offer education and awareness presentations, support for policy development, and activities for youth. If you are interested in any of these services, contact Tori Campbell by email at [email protected] or by phone 907- 452-8251, extension 3089.

Finally, want access to more information about what's happening across Interior Alaska? Sign up for TCC's news and updates. You'll receive your monthly council newsletter, press releases, important announcements, and more straight to your inbox. Stay informed about TCC services, tribal priorities, and the work happening to support our tribes and communities. Sign up today at tananacheefs.org/the-council-signup!

That's all for this week's TCC Weekly. Thank you for joining us, and we'll see you next time. Tune in Monday mornings at 9:00 AM on KRFF 89.1 FM, or listen anytime on Spotify or YouTube. Merci.