Smoke signals., September 01, 2005, Page 5, Image 5

SEPTEMBER 1, 2005
Smoke Signals 5
Native Youth From Around The Country Learn "Words Of Wisdom"
A thunderbird sits on the Longhouse
at Evergreen State College.
By Jack Ham,
Smoke Signals Intern
Around 100 Skokomish youth
spent a year setting up "Words of
Wisdom," the Native Youth Leader
ship Academy. As Tribal youth
from as far as Massachusetts and
Arizona arrived, their Skokomish
hosts welcomed them with smiles
and friendly directions to dorms and
other facilities.
On Sunday, July 17, the Native
Wellness Institute together with the
Skokomish Tribe, its Youth Coun
cil and Tuwaduq Family Services
sponsored a three-day conference
at Evergreen State College in
Olympia, Washington.
On the first day, the sponsors
treated youth to a traditional
Skokomish dinner at a traditional
longhouse on their reservation.
Visitors were also introduced to the
traditional songs and dances of the
Skokomish Tribe.
On the second day, Native Youth
Leadership Academy Training
Team members Robert Johnston,
Jillene Joseph and Maria Trevizo
motivated the youth. They talked
about goal setting in order to de
velop a personal vision. The way to
success, they said, requires youth to
take healthy risks.
On the third day, the youth gath
ered in "clans." Clan members took
turns practicing speeches in front of
each other.
"This is where it starts, learning
how to speak," said Johnston on
how to become a youth leader. The
rest of the night, chaperones re
warded the youth with a dance for
their good behavior.
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Talent Tribal member Fausten Wheeler (center) makes Native necklaces.
Other activities throughout the
three days included a basketball
tournament; rock wall climbing, a
talent show and a ropes course that
helped the youth increase their self
esteem and learn trust.
"You are brilliant and talented
beyond all measure," said Trevizo.
Her final words for the new youth
leaders of tomorrow: "I want to
thank you for showing me a lot of
respect," she said.
Summer Of Buffalo Indian Education
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" Youth Talent Tribal member TenishaRios plays a traditional NaLve
Performance Students from all different age groups came together to American song on a flute at the showcase of the Summer of the Buffalo Indian
learn a traditional Navajo song taught to them by Chet Clark. They spent all Education, a summer school program that helps Native American youth connect
summer learning the song and were eager to play for friends and family in Salem. with their cultural heritage. The event was held on Thursday, August 1 1 .
2005 HeadStart Graduation
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Look Out World. . . On Thursday, August 18, 20 students graduated from pre-school and the
HeadStart Program. Some of the graduates included Raven Harmon, (AthabascanYupikColville)
(above, right) Chinook Tribal member Tahoma Aleck and Grand Ronde Tribal member Hunter Latham.
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