Honoring Our Elders, Strengthening Our Communities

By Aleisha Singh, TCC Learning & Development Coordinator The Make a Card for an Elder activity, created by the Tanana Chiefs Conference Leadership for Results Program, is a simple way to support wellness through connection. When families gather to make cards for Elders, they are doing more than art. They are sharing time, stories, and respect across generations. We encourage …

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Interior Voices Drive Change in State and Federal Fisheries Management

February was an important month for the future of Yukon River salmon. Tribal leaders, Elders, fishermen, and advocates from across the Tanana Chiefs Conference (TCC) region traveled and testified at both the Alaska Board of Fisheries and the North Pacific Fishery Management Council meetings, sharing a unified message: salmon must be protected and the responsibility for conservation must be shared. …

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In Loving Memory of Nick Alexia Sr. of Nikolai

We at Tanana Chiefs Conference (TCC) are saddened to learn of the passing of Nick Alexia Sr. of Nikolai. Nick previously served on the TCC Executive Board of directors for many years as the Upper Kuskokwim representative and had previously served as First Chief of Nikolai. We are grateful for his leadership, guidance, and dedication to our people and communities. …

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Standing Strong Together: Preventing Bullying in Our Rural Communities

By David Atteberry, TCC Public Safety Manager Bullying is not always loud. Sometimes it shows up quietly in a harsh comment, in someone being excluded, or in repeated teasing that goes too far. In our rural communities, where everyone knows one another and our connections run deep, bullying can have lasting impacts on a person’s wellbeing, safety, and sense of …

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FAFSA: More Than Just Student Loans

Many families believe that completing the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) automatically means taking out student loans. This is a common misconception — and it’s important to know that FAFSA is not just for loans. While some students may not qualify for the Federal Pell Grant due to household income, submitting the FAFSA is still strongly encouraged. The …

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Public Notice Regarding Filming, Photography, and Media Presence at Heeyo (Stickdance)

By The 2026 Heeyo Committee / Elders / Cultural Leaders We respectfully inform the public that no filming, photography, or recording of any kind is permitted during our sacred Heeyo (Stickdance). This Heeyo (Stickdance) holds deep cultural, spiritual, and ancestral significance. The power and sacredness surrounding it should be acknowledged and respected. Recording or documenting the ceremony disrupts its spiritual …

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Colon Cancer: Preventable, Treatable and Beatable

By Dr. Jenny Lessner, TCC Physician Let’s talk about something we all have in common… poop. Yep. Butts, bowels, bathroom habits—the whole glamorous package. If you’re already cringing, stay with me, because this conversation can literally save lives. Colon cancer is cancer of the large intestine (also called the colon). Your colon is about 6 feet long, and its job …

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Project Winter Connect Brought Community Resources Together in Fairbanks

On January 27, 2026, Tanana Chiefs Conference (TCC) partnered with service providers from across Fairbanks for Project Winter Connect to support individuals and families needing extra assistance during the harsh winter months. By bringing multiple organizations into one central, accessible location, Project Winter Connect reduced barriers and made it easier for residents to connect with the help they needed. Attendees …

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Federal Subsistence Review Comment Period Extended to March 30, 2026

The federal government has extended the public comment period for the review of the Federal Subsistence Management Program (FSMP) to March 30, 2026. This review will help determine how subsistence hunting and fishing are managed on federal public lands in Alaska and may affect long-standing protections for rural subsistence users. The review was opened following a petition requesting significant changes …

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