10th Native Women & Men's Wellness .pdf - American Indian Institute

"Eyes #1" By Thomas Poolaw (Kiowa) 2007 

10th Annual 

Native Women & Men’s 

Wellness Conference 

March 27 – 31, 2011 · Hotel Albuquerque at Old Town · Albuquerque, New Mexico

Table of Contents 

1 About the American Indian Institute 

2 Welcome 

3 Conference Map 

4 Conference Agenda 

6 Master of Ceremony 

7 Opening Ceremony Keynote Address 

8 Closing Ceremony Keynote Address 

Workshop Descriptions 

9 Session 1 

11 Session 2 

13 Session 3 

15 Session 4 

17 Session 5 

19 Session 6 

21 Session 7 

23 Session 8 

25 Session 9 

27 Sweat Lodge Information 

28 Exhibitors & Vendors (at time of printing) 

29 Upcoming Events & 2011 Conference Information 

31 Notes 

35 Heart Healthy Recipes

About the American Indian Institute 

American Indian Institute 

The American Indian Institute (Aii) was established at the University of Oklahoma in 1951 as a non-profit 

American Indian service, training and research organization. The Institute is a department within the Division 

of Public and Community Services within University Outreach, the College of Continuing Education. Aii 

has entered the 21st Century with renewed commitment to providing needed culturally-sensitive training, 

technical assistance, and materials to American Indian, Alaska Native, and Canadian First Nations peoples. 

The Institute's new vision for community outreach efforts include: 

American Indian Center for Common and Higher Education 

American Indian Center for Healthy Living 

American Indian Center for Culture / Language / Historical Preservation 

American Indian Center for Leadership 

American Indian Center for Research and Evaluation 

The Institute offers workshops, seminars, conferences, on-site trainings, and consultation on tribal, state, 

regional and international levels on a variety of topics and issues that affect the Indigenous peoples of North 

America and First Nations of Canada. 

For more information, please visit our web site: www.aii.ou.edu 

Upcoming Events 

Native Fitness Training 

1.6 CEUs (16 hours) 

June 12 – 14, 2011 

Eldorado Hotel & Spa 

Santa Fe, NM 

Register Online: www.aii.ou.edu 

14th Annual Native Diabetes 

Prevention Conference 

2.0 CEUs (20 hours) 

June 13 – 17, 2011 

Eldorado Hotel & Spa 

Santa Fe, NM 

Register Online: www.aii.ou.edu 

Introduction to Social Marketing 

July 2011 

TBA 

1

Welcome to the Conference 

Letter from the Director 

Welcome! 

On behalf of the American Indian Institute and the University of Oklahoma, it is my privilege 

to welcome you to the 10th Annual Native Women & Men’s Wellness Conference. We are honored by your 

presence this year as we celebrate our 60th anniversary! Our presenters and speakers have developed 

unique health promotion strategies, featuring research and practice-based programs, as well as a wide 

range of substantive topics and levels of expertise. 

This year, look for a special emphasis on the areas of the MIND (behavioral health), BODY (men and women’s 

health), SPIRIT (traditional healing and ceremony) and COMMUNITY (public health wellness), which are 

woven throughout the conference. Look for other exciting events and information in your conference program 

guide (daily wellness activities, daily sweat lodge, special documentary sessions, social dance, fun walk/run 

through Old Town, heart healthy recipes, etc). 

As we come together this year in Albuquerque to share the most current information from experienced tribal 

members, researchers and practitioners, we encourage you to reflect upon this year’s conference theme, 

“Healing Connections: Mind, Body, Spirit & Community”. 

The American Indian Institute and the University of Oklahoma want you to feel comfortable throughout the 

entire conference, and we encourage engagement and discussion among all participants, presenters, exhibitors 

and conference planners. It is our intent to make this a professional meeting that you will want to attend 

annually. We will do our best to make this conference meaningful to all who attend, and hope your visit to 

Albuquerque is enjoyable! 

Thank you for participating in our 10th Annual Native Women & Men’s Wellness Conference. 

Sincerely, 

Belinda Biscoe, Ph.D., CPS 

Vice President - Public & Community Services Division, College of Continuing Education, 

University of Oklahoma 

Interim Director - American Indian Institute, University of Oklahoma 

2

3 

Conference Map

Conference Agenda 

Sunday, March 27, 2011 

2:00 - 6:00 p.m. Registration North Atrium 

4:00 - 5:00 p.m. Orientation Meeting for Volunteers Alvarado B 

5:00 - 6:00 p.m. Orientation Meeting for Presenters Alvarado B 

6:00 - 7:30 p.m. Welcome Gathering Alvarado Ballroom D & E 

Monday, March 28, 2011 

7:30 - 8:30 a.m. Continental Breakfast Alvarado Ballroom D & E 

8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Elders' Room Alvarado A 

8:30 - 10:00 a.m. Opening Ceremony Alvarado Ballroom D & E 

9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Exhibits/Arts & Crafts Vendors East Atrium/Exhibit Hall 

10:00 - 10:30 a.m. Break: Refreshments Alvarado Ballroom D & E 

10:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Session 1 – Workshops (see page 9 for abstracts) Alvarado B, C, F, G, H 

12:00 - 1:30 p.m. Lunch – on your own 

1:30 - 3:00 p.m. Session 2 – Workshops (see page 11 for abstracts) Alvarado B, C, F, G, H 

3:00 - 3:30 p.m. Break: Refreshments Alvarado Ballroom D & E 

3:30 - 5:00 p.m. Session 3 – Workshops (see page 13 for abstracts) Alvarado A, B, C, F, G, H 

5:30 - 6:30 p.m. Wellness Activity: Co-ed Sweat Lodge TBA 

5:30 - 6:30 p.m. Wellness Activity: Talking Circle with Robert Cross Alvarado B 

Special Evening Session 

8:00 - 9:00 p.m. Processed People: A Documentary (Facilitated by Alvarado Ballroom D & E 

Keynoter, Caroline Trapp) 

Tuesday, March 29, 2011 

6:30 - 7:30 a.m. Men's Sweat Lodge TBA 

6:30 - 7:30 a.m. Fun Run/Walk Through Old Town: Hosts – Starting and ending at 

American Indian Institute, Joe Law, Theresa Clay & Hotel ABQ 

Alberta Becenti 




9:30 - 10:00 a.m. General Session Alvarado Ballroom D & E 





3:00 - 3:30 p.m. Break: Refreshments Alvarado Ballroom D & E 

4

Conference Agenda (cont.) 


5:30 - 6:30 p.m. Wellness Activity: Women's Sweat Lodge TBA 

5:30 - 6:30 p.m. Wellness Activity: Autonomic Body Therapy (ABT) Alvarado B 

with Dr. Michael Austin, D.C. 

5:30 - 6:30 p.m. Wellness Activity: Support Group with Walker Alvarado C 

Evening Event 

7:00 - 9:00 p.m. Social Dance Alvarado Ballroom D & E 

Wednesday, March 30, 2011 

6:30 - 7:30 a.m. Wellness Activity: Co-ed Sweat Lodge TBA 




8:30 - 10:00 a.m. Session 7 – Workshops (see page 21 for abstracts) Alvarado B, C, F, G, H 





3:30 - 4:30 p.m. Co-ed Sweat Lodge TBA 

Evening Event 

5:30 - 8:30 p.m. Closing Ceremony & Banquet Alvarado Ballroom D & E 

Thursday, March 31, 2011 

8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Departure & Travel Day 

5

Master of Ceremony 

Gregory Analla (Isleta/Laguna Pueblos) 

A member of the Isleta and Laguna Pueblos found in the high desert of New Mexico, artist and musician, 

Gregg Analla, has always strived to imbue the rich culture that comprises the modern Pueblo Native 

American. 

“We are a complex people rich in spirituality and strength,” states Analla, “…and I feel that my role as 

an artist on this earth is to convey these strengths in a light that not only emphasizes our survivance but 

also illuminates the important issues and struggles that need to be addressed in order to keep our culture 

growing into a more prosperous future.” 

These ideals are woven seamlessly into each piece of art that Analla produces whether utilizing organic 

materials directly from our mother earth such as stone and wood, fabricating effigies from plasma cut steel 

and bronze, or paintings comprised of intense colors and textures. The results speak for themselves; works 

of art that educate through symbolism and form. 

Working in conjunction with the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center in Albuquerque, New Mexico, Gregg has 

found his role as a cultural arts educator quite fulfilling on many different levels. “We are unique in this world 

and I find that my purpose in presenting our culture has multiple benefits. “I not only can inform the first 

time visitor as to the overall concepts behind our ideals, but also hopefully inspire our Native youth through 

examples and activities that emphasize the ancestral teachings of our elders.” 

Gregory continues to teach in central New Mexico and abroad through art shows, artist workshops, and 

lectures utilizing his talents in both fine art and traditional and contemporary Native music. 

Fun Run/Walk Through Old Town 

Tuesday, March 29 • 6:30 - 7:30 am • Hotel Albuquerque Lobby 

Please join us on Tuesday, March 29, from 6:30 am – 7:30 am for a morning walk through 

Albuquerque’s historic Old Town! This 2 mile round-trip route starts at the Hotel Albuquerque’s 

front lobby, takes you through a city park, through Old Town’s beautiful plaza and ends at the 

Hotel Albuquerque’s front lobby just in time for a hot breakfast. Volunteers and staff will lead 

the walking group, and runners may proceed at their own pace. We encourage you to bring 

along your conference water bottle, and fill up at the water station before and after the walk. 

If you have any questions, please stop by the registration desk at any time! **You may run or 

walk at your own pace** 

Special thanks to our ‘Fun Run/Walk Through Old Town’ volunteers: 

Ms. Theresa Clay, Health Promotion & Disease Prevention Coordinator 

Albuquerque Area Indian Health Service – Albuquerque, NM 

Mr. Joe Law, Health Promotion & Disease Prevention Coordinator 

Portland Area Indian Health Service – Portland, OR 

Ms. Alberta Becenti, Health Promotion/Disease Prevention Consultant 

Indian Health Service, National Programs – Albuquerque, NM 

6

Opening Ceremony Keynote Address 

Monday, March 28, 2011–8:30 am 

Alvarado D & E • Opening Ceremony Keynoter 

Caroline Trapp, MSN, CNP, BC-ADM, CDE 

Director of Diabetes Education and Care – Physicians 

Committee for Responsible Medicine & Diabetes Nurse 

Practitioner 

Caroline Trapp, MSN, CNP, BC-ADM, CDE, is a nurse practitioner 

specializing in the care of people with diabetes with Premier 

Internists, P.C., of Southfield, MI. She is also the director of 

diabetes education and care of Physicians Committee for 

Responsible Medicine (PCRM), a Washington, D.C.-based nonprofit 

organization that does clinical research, nutrition education 

and public policy advocacy. She obtained her master’s degree in 

Community Health Nursing from the University of Pennsylvania 

and her BSN and post-master’s certification in Adult Primary Care 

from the University of Michigan, where she is now an adjunct faculty member. Ms. Trapp has 25 years of 

experience in the care of people with diabetes, the past 13 as a nurse practitioner. She is board certified 

in diabetes education, adult primary care and advanced diabetes management. She is the coauthor of two 

recent articles in peer-reviewed journals on plant-based nutrition and diabetes. 

Since joining PCRM in 2007, Ms. Trapp coproduced and was featured in the DVD, A New Approach to 

Nutrition for Diabetes, which received the “Favorably Reviewed” seal from the American Association of 

Diabetes Educators (AADE). She was a finalist for the 2009 AADE Diabetes Educator of the Year Award. 

Ms. Trapp has lectured at professional meetings across the U.S. and in Canada, China and Micronesia on 

the scientific and practical aspects of plant-based nutrition for diabetes, and created and implemented many 

innovative educational programs for people with diabetes and health care professionals. 

The current project Ms. Trapp is the most excited about is a collaborative effort to create and implement 

a pilot program of cooking and nutrition classes for Native Americans with diabetes in New Mexico and 

Arizona. The Food for Life series of classes was launched in October of 2010. 

“When I wrote my first prescription thirteen years ago, I thought, now I can really make a difference for 

people with diabetes. I was so wrong! Prescribing medicines is like giving out band-aids, or worse, as 

sometimes they do more harm then good. Fortunately, there is an effective treatment and way to prevent 

diabetes. Food is powerful medicine, and surprise; the most healthful diets look a lot like Native American 

ancestral diets. Diabetes should be no one’s tradition, and science suggests, it does not need to be.” 

Ms. Trapp may be reached at PCRM, 5100 Wisconsin Ave., N.W., Suite 400, Washington, D.C., 20016, or by 

e-mail at ctrapp@pcrm.org. 

7

Closing Ceremony Keynote Address 

Wednesday, March 30, 2011–5:30 pm 

Alvarado D & E • Closing Ceremony Keynoter 

Majick RavenHawk, Ph.D., CCHt, LMT 

Founder & Owner – RavenHawk International, Engage Life 

Institute, RavenHawk Talk Radio & Native Business Network 

Dr. RavenHawk is a Radio Personality and New Thought Leader. 

She is the creator of MindShift Therapy®, a unique model for 

personal growth and development. Dr. RavenHawk has been 

in business for over 30 years. She is founder of Engage Life 

(employee assistance program), The Native Leadership Academy, 

RavenHawk Talk Radio, RavenHawk International and Engage 

Life Institute a 501c3 organization. 

A Board Certified Master Success Coach, Business Coach, 

Board Certified Clinical Hypnotherapist Trainer, Certified Pain 

Management Hypnotherapist, Board Certified NLP Practitioner, Metaphysician, Creative Soul Therapist, 

and Board Certified Holistic Health Practitioner. She is also an Ordained Minister of The Sacred Hoop New 

Thought Center in Tulsa Oklahoma. She holds various degrees in counseling psychology, religious studies 

and metaphysics. Dr. RavenHawk has spent many years learning and interviewing from Tribal Elders, 

Healers and Spiritual Teachers. 

She has been a Zen teacher for over 20 years. Dr. RavenHawk facilitates monthly Drumming Circles and 

holds yearly Mindful Retreats. She spent years developing a unique Awakening and Personal Development 

model, MindShift Therapy®, that teaches you how to remove the destructive neural pathways that have 

held you back from achieving success in life by building new and stronger thought forms that will allow new 

positives habits to form allowing you to succeed in every area of your life. Merging Science and the Spiritual, 

Traditional and Progressive. 

Dr. RavenHawk has lectured at various universities and conferences around the country on Native 

Studies, Business Entrepreneurship and Spiritual Issues. She has conducted workshops and presented 

on MindShift® Therapy. She facilitates you on your journey to find your purpose in life and find peace and 

happiness. She is an author and has been published in various business, wellness and spiritual magazines. 

Dr. RavenHawk has been interviewed on various radio shows on Life Balance Issues, The Collective 

Consciousness, Native Prophesies, Cultural Protocols, Letting Go of Toxic Relationships, Mindful Practices, 

Awakening to Your Purpose and Success Coaching. Dr. RavenHawk is a Radio Personality on Seattle's 

106.9HD-3 with her own show...RavenHawk Talk Radio. Her show can also be heard streaming on the 

internet. Dr. RavenHawk hosts "Minding Your Business: Prosperity Success Coaching" that airs on Monday 

nights 9:00 pm - 10:00 pm Central Time. 

Dr. RavenHawk is available for personal appearances and lectures. Visit our site at 

www.ravenhawkinternational.com. 

8

Session 1 – Monday, March 28, 2011 

10:30 am – 12:00 pm 

Alvarado B • Cooking with Ancestral Foods to Heal Diabetes ** 

Chef Lois Ellen Frank, Ph.D. Candidate (Kiowa/Sephardic) 

Native Foods Culinary Historian, Author, and Chef - Red Mesa Cuisine 

In this session, participants will learn about the history of Native American plant based ancestral foods. This 

session will focus on how health can be restored with the use of these foods and steps that can be taken 

to reclaim health and wellness preventing contemporary health problems, such as obesity and diabetes. 

Traditional knowledge of these ancestral foods are an important component towards a healthy lifestyle. 

Vegetables, fruits, legumes (beans, nuts, and seeds) and grains, both cultivated and wild harvested, have 

always been a part of the traditional indigenous knowledge system and a part of the Native American diet. 

With the revitalization of these foods, all of the cultural traditions associated with them including agricultural 

practices, planting techniques, food preparation, recipes, stories, dance, and language to name a few 

are also revitalized at the same time. Using knowledge from the past, Native communities can define and 

practice a new Native American cuisine focused on traditional health for the future. Chef Lois Ellen Frank 

will present several dishes, and provides samples and recipes. 

*Repeated: Session 4, Alvarado B 

**Limited to 70 participants 

Alvarado C • Addressing Intervention and Prevention of Alcohol Exposed 

Pregnancies in Native Communities 

Dan Dubovsky, M.S.W. 

FASD Specialist - SAMHSA FASD Center for Excellence 

Candace Shelton, M.S., LISAC (Osage) 

Senior Native Specialist – SAMHSA FASD Center for Excellence 

American Indian/Alaska Natives have some of the highest rates of fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD) in 

the nation yet it is one of the few birth defects that is 100% preventable. FASD can occur in any community 

where women drink while pregnant. Many American Indian/Alaska Native communities are recognizing that 

this is a significant issue for them and must be addressed directly. For too long, this has not been done, and 

individuals, families, and entire communities have been seriously affected. This workshop will present three 

evidence-based practices for the prevention of FASD by working with women at risk. How these practices 

can be implemented into existing service systems that interact with women is examined. The notion that 

appropriate treatment of women at risk is an effective prevention technique is discussed, and methods 

of recognizing individuals who themselves may have an FASD so that appropriate interventions can be 

implemented are described. Questions and discussion are encouraged. 

Alvarado F • The Four Elements to Change Your Life 

Rogelio Sanchez, M.S.W. (Huasteca) 

CEO - Asi Counseling & Professional Services 

Anita Jackson, M.S.W. (Cree) 

Assistant Director - Asi Counseling & Professional Services 

The Four Elements provides the framework for the "Asi Way", a method developed by Rogelio Sanchez, 

MSW. The Four Elements causes immediate acknowledgement for the person-in-situation to make positive 

changes in their life. Thus begins the process of discovery of the self. The Four Elements provide the 

framework for moving from dysfunction to function, from inaction to action, from being stuck to moving 

forward in life. 

9

Alvarado G • The Native Flute: An Introduction to Its Healing Properties** 

Paula Conlon, Ph.D. 

Patricia Deisenroth Presidential Professor – University of Oklahoma 

Easy to pick up and play, the Native flute enables even a first-timer to improvise haunting melodies that offer 

a welcome respite from modern-day stress and busyness. This hands-on workshop will introduce the Native 

flute, including cultural background and information on Native artists; instruction on how to produce a good 

sound and learn the five-tone scale; tips on producing effects such as flutter, trills, note bending, and vibrato; 

and suggestions on getting started with improvising and creating your own melodies on the Native flute. 

Flutes will be available for use during the workshop, and handouts with finger patterns and guidelines on 

producing effects will be provided. All are welcome to come and experience the Native flute. 

*Limited to 40 participants 

**Repeated: Session 2 – Alvarado G 

Alvarado H • Addictions and Family Violence: A Collaborative Approach 

for Native Americans 

Brad Patterson, M.B.A., CDABP (Descendent, Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa) 

Keystone Treatment Center 

The purpose of this presentation is to present an overview of the impact and significance of domestic 

violence from the perspective of both the perpetrator and the victims of domestic violence. This workshop 

will provide substance abuse providers with a working understanding of the dynamics of domestic violence 

and how substance abuse impacts this issue. This workshop will also address how domestic violence and 

addictions intersect within families and will show the contrast between families in addiction versus families in 

recovery. This workshop will also show the necessity of collaboration between the substance abuse provider 

and the domestic abuse services provider for the ultimate good of the client. Finally, the workshop will show 

how children are affected by addictions in the family and the roles that they often assume to deal with the 

issues. 

10


1:30 pm – 3:00 pm 

Alvarado B • Cooking with Children* 

Robert S. Kirk, Ph.D., RN 

Volunteer Nurse - Native American Community Clinic 

Cooking with children is a simple way to improve their nutrition; almost any kind of cooking produced in 

a kitchen is healthier than fast or prepared food. The Native American Community Clinic in Minneapolis, 

Minnesota has written two cookbooks and teaching guides to help caregivers cook with their children. In 

addition to a number of simple and fun foods, the cookbooks have several traditional Ojibwe or Sioux recipes 

modified to be both healthy and appealing to today's children. Workshop participants will prepare and 

sample several of the recipes. The cookbooks and teaching guides will be distributed at the workshop, and 

the books and guides will be available online at no cost. 


Alvarado C • Open 

Alvarado F • Traditional Healing in HIV/AIDS Prevention and Treatment* 

Hannabah Blue, B.A. (Navajo) 

Capacity Building Assistance Specialist - National Native American AIDS Prevention Center 

Robert Cross (Lakota) 

Lakota Spiritual Advisor - National Native American AIDS Prevention Center 

Native Hawaiians/Other Pacific Islanders and American Indians/Alaska Natives have the 3rd and 4th highest 

rate of new HIV infections, respectively. This workshop will give an update on how the epidemic affects 

Native communities, including available statistical data and anecdotal experiences. It will also discuss how 

the effects are unique for Natives, due to the stigma that often surrounds sexual and sexuality topics, lack of 

access to HIV services and information, and inadequate surveillance data. The workshop will also discuss 

how Native people have unique traditional values related to health and wellness; this includes the ability to 

utilize a holistic approach to health, which often includes Traditional Healing. 

Alvarado G • The Native Flute: An Introduction to Its Healing Properties* 

Paula Conlon, Ph.D. 

Patricia Deisenroth Presidential Professor – University of Oklahoma 

Easy to pick up and play, the Native flute enables even a first-timer to improvise haunting melodies that offer 

a welcome respite from modern-day stress and busyness. This hands-on workshop will introduce the Native 

flute, including cultural background and information on Native artists; instruction on how to produce a good 

sound and learn the five-tone scale; tips on producing effects such as flutter, trills, note bending, and vibrato; 

and suggestions on getting started with improvising and creating your own melodies on the Native flute. 

Flutes will be available for use during the workshop, and handouts with finger patterns and guidelines on 

producing effects will be provided. All are welcome to come and experience the Native flute. 


11

Alvarado H • Construction of a Medicine Wheel Organic Garden (MWOG): 

Healthy Learning on Campus 

Joe Bohanon, Ph.D., M.S.W., B.S.W. (Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma) 

Chair of American Indian Studies Division & Assistant Professor – Bacone College 

The MWOG is a tool for education with academic disciplines such as Agriculture Science, Math, Biology, 

American Indian Religion, American Indian programs such as the American Indian Studies, American Indian 

Students of Promise, and American Indian Work & Learning Community. The garden provides vegetables, 

fruits, nuts, healing plants, such as tobacco, cedar, sage, Echinacea, and other plants important to the local 

tribal communities. It is used for education, ceremonies, relaxation and eating healthy organic foods. We 

found that gardening can be a form of meditation, as well as healthy outdoor exercise. 

Special Evening Session 

Movie Night 

Monday, March 28 • 8:00 - 9:00 pm • Alvarado D & E 

Processed People – Directed by Jeff Nelson 

A documentary about the food we eat. Discussion following the film, 

facilitated by Caroline Trapp, APRN, MSN, BC-ADM, CDE 

12


3:30 pm – 5:00 pm 

Alvarado A • Special Session for Elders' Room 

Autonomic Body Therapy (ABT): Rediscover the Power of Touch* 

Michael Austin, D.C., FIAMA 

Doctor of Chiropractic - Rainbow Bridge Healing Arts Center 

Contract Health Care Provider - Pascua Yaqui Nation & 

Tohono O'odham Nation 

Before vaccinations and pills, plants were medicine. Before scanners and computers, we looked and listened 

to our patients. In this technology driven society, traditional medicine has been placed behind the back 

burner. Even the simple act of human touch is scoffed at as being, at best, placebo. Dr. Michael Austin has 

spent the past eight years developing his therapy called Autonomic Body Therapy (ABT). ABT is a touchbased 

therapy. It is the synthesis of Meridian, Bowen, and Mind Body Therapies. Please join Dr. Austin in a 

discussion of these therapies and their merger into the single treatment modality, Autonomic Body Therapy. 

*If you can't make the presentation, come to the ABT Wellness Activity (Tuesday, March 29, 2011, Alvarado 

C, from 5:30 PM – 6:30 PM) *repeated: Session 4, Alvarado G 

Alvarado B • Information on the 21 Service to Science (STS) Intervention 

Programs 

Rose David (Ojibway) 

Training and Technical Assistance Program Manager - Kauffman & Associates, Native American 

Center for Excellence 

The Center for Substance Abuse Prevention (CSAP) Native American Center for Excellence (NACE) Native 

American Service to Science approach recognizes the science in many American Indian/Alaska Native (AI/ 

AN) traditional practices. This workshop will provide insight into this collaborative approach and describe 

how AI/AN prevention programs have been able to enhance their evaluation capacity and document their 

effectiveness. 

Alvarado C • From the Badlands to Alcatraz Revisited - A Documentary 

and Discussion* 

Nancy Iverson, M.D. 

Executive Director - PATHSTAR 

Chrystal White Eyes (Oglala Lakota) 

PATHSTAR Swimmer & Retail/Gathering Tribes 

During the 2004 Native Women & Men's Wellness Conference, Richard Iron Cloud (Pine Ridge Reservation) 

and Dr. Nancy Iverson (San Francisco) presented a pilot project, developed through PATHSTAR, encouraging 

healthy lifestyle and nutrition practices among Native Americans. Including a whole-foods based diet, 

daily exercise, and exploration of San Francisco community programs, the PATHSTAR San Francisco week 

culminated in September 2003 in an Alcatraz swim, an impressive feat with spiritual, historical, and cultural 

relevance, requiring conditioning, teamwork, bravery, fortitude, and commitment. Now an annual event, the 

program is chronicled in the documentary "From the Badlands to Alcatraz". Following the showing of the 

film, 2010 Lakota Alcatraz swimmers will share learnings, challenges, and triumphs they experienced as they 

participated in the PATHSTAR Alcatraz swim program. 

*Repeated: Session 6, Alvarado H & Session 9, Alvarado C 

13

Alvarado F • A Cooperative Community Providing New Plans for Healthier 

Nutrition* 

Virginia J. Sutter, Ph.D., M.S.W. (Northern Arapaho) 

Executive Director & CEO - Blue Mountain Associates, Inc. 

Rita Gilliam 

Health Educator & Program Coordinator – Blue Mountain Associates, Inc. 

Blue Mountain Associates, Inc. is an American Indian owned and operated 501 (C) 3 corporation devoted 

to developing and implementing health and social service programs for American Indians in Indian Country. 

This workshop will provide an overview of several community nutrition projects, and demonstrate new and 

innovative ways to bring healthier nutrition to low-income, Native families. Nutrition projects discussed during 

this workshop include recent collaboration with the tribal Arapaho Ranch to commercially produce and sell 

organic grass-fed beef, as well as the development of fresh fruit orchards and a raspberry farm. American 

Indians have historically looked after one another, with emphasis on the very old and very young. Join us as 

we discover better ways to serve our people, using traditional ways of healthy food for a healthy mind and 

body. 

*Repeated: Session 8, Alvarado H 

Alvarado G • Finding Culturally Appropriate Health Information for Those 

Working with Native Americans 

Patricia Bradley, M.L.S., AHIP (Navajo) 

Native Services Librarian - University of New Mexico Health Science Library 

Yamila El-Khayat, M.L.S. 

Outreach Services Librarian - Arizona Health Sciences Library 

Tribal Connections Four Corners (TC4C) is a partnership of health sciences libraries in the four corner 

states, helping to develop, implement, and evaluate programs to improve access to reliable health information 

in the region. Health sciences librarians from the libraries in each state will be presenting. The goal of 

this workshop is to provide an application class that will cover databases with links to culturally appropriate 

health and medical information such as MedlinePlus, SIS Tribal Resource, National Library of Medicine’s 

American Indian Health website, the Native Health Database from the University of New Mexico (UNM), and 

a wiki for sharing health information outreach projects servicing Native Americans. The ‘basics’ of finding 

and searching for health information will also be covered. 

Alvarado H • ‘Health Is Life in Balance’ (Curriculum) 

Dawn Plumer, CHES 

DETS Recruitment Coordinator - Leech Lake Tribal College 

Health Is Life in Balance Curriculum presentation offers a look at our Diabetes Education in Tribal Schools 

(DETS) curriculum for K-12th grade. It is a health, science and social studies based curriculum. The DETS 

Project is part of a national effort to decrease the incidence and improve the care of type 2 diabetes among 

American Indians/Alaska Natives (AI/AN). In addition, DETS is a K-12 Curriculum that was developed using 

a multidisciplinary approach, and consists of units that incorporate National Science Education Standards, 

Inquiry-Learning (SE model), and AI/AN cultural and community knowledge. The workshop starts with an 

interactive activity that gets the audience thinking about the facts, myths and importance of learning about 

diabetes. After some discussion we have a PowerPoint presentation that outlines the history, theory and reasoning 

behind creating the curriculum, and end with an example of a lesson unit within the curriculum. 

14

Session 4 – Tuesday, March 29, 2011 

10:30 am – 12:00 pm 

Alvarado B • Cooking with Ancestral Foods to Heal Diabetes * 

Chef Lois Ellen Frank, Ph.D. Candidate (Kiowa/Sephardic) 

Native Foods Culinary Historian, Author, and Chef - Red Mesa Cuisine 

In this session, participants will learn about the history of Native American plant based ancestral foods. This 

session will focus on how health can be restored with the use of these foods and steps that can be taken 

to reclaim health and wellness preventing contemporary health problems, such as obesity and diabetes. 

Traditional knowledge of these ancestral foods are an important component towards a healthy lifestyle. 

Vegetables, fruits, legumes (beans, nuts, and seeds) and grains, both cultivated and wild harvested, have 

always been a part of the traditional indigenous knowledge system and a part of the Native American diet. 

With the revitalization of these foods, all of the cultural traditions associated with them including agricultural 

practices, planting techniques, food preparation, recipes, stories, dance, and language to name a few 

are also revitalized at the same time. Using knowledge from the past, Native communities can define and 

practice a new Native American cuisine focused on traditional health for the future. Chef Lois Ellen Frank 

will present several dishes, and provides samples and recipes. 


Alvarado C • Medicine Horse Therapy: It’s Different – It Works! * 

Darla Delver 

President – Medicine Horse Therapy 

Ron Delver, B.Ed., B.A. 

Program Development – Medicine Horse Therapy 

Presenters will describe the Medicine Horse Therapy program (a results-oriented program), its underlying 

theories and principles and also how its innovative techniques make it stand out and differ from other 

programs. Delegates will see how Medicine Horse can be integrated into their existing equine and other 

programs, to facilitate the work of Elders, social workers, psychologists and other professionals. Medicine 

Horse is also extremely effective as a stand-alone program. Medicine Horse has been proven to be an 

effective component in the healing process of both victims and perpetrators of: violence, bullying, gang 

recruitment, aggression, substance abuse, sexual abuse and has succeeded in reducing suicides. It has 

successfully reached and facilitated the treatment of persons where other programs have failed. Most 

importantly, Medicine Horse connects with the disenfranchised and allows them to reconnect with their 

culture and existing supportive agencies. At all times, participants, horses and facilitators are all treated 

with the respect and dignity they deserve. The Department of Psychology at the University of Calgary has 

just begun a study of Medicine Horse and hopes to have preliminary results published and presented at 

international conferences by early next year. A discussion of this and other research, a sharing of case 

histories and success of past programs will be provided. 

This presentation consists of two 40-minute segments separated by a short break. Questions and comments 

from the floor will be encouraged. *repeated: Session 6, Alvarado B 

15

Alvarado F • Eagle Books: Diabetes Education Has Never Been Such Fun 

Liz Henry, B.A. (Omaha/Nez Perce) 

Project Manager - Eagle Books, Kauffman Associates, Inc. 

Kelly Bundy, B.A. 

Project Manager - Eagle Books, Kauffman Associates, Inc. 

In an effort to reduce the incidence of type 2 diabetes among American Indians and Alaska Natives (Al/AN), 

the Center for Disease Control and Prevention's (CDC) Native Diabetes Wellness Program (NDWP) has 

focused its efforts on children in grades K through 4 by utilizing the Eagle Books series to encourage healthy 

eating habits and physical activity. Since children in this age group have little control over their environment, 

the target audience also includes parents, school personnel, and other caregivers. See how schools and 

communities have used the Al/AN culturally appropriate Eagle Books to boost science learning and promote 

healthy lifestyles. Explore the possibilities the books offer your community, tribal program or classrooms. 

The workshop will feature the Eagle Books and the Eagle Books toolkit materials, which are available at 

no cost to schools and programs serving Al/AN children. The developing Eagle Books website will also be 

discussed. 

Alvarado G • Autonomic Body Therapy (ABT): Rediscover the Power of 

Touch* 

Michael Austin, D.C., FIAMA 

Doctor of Chiropractic - Rainbow Bridge Healing Arts Center 

Contract Health Care Provider - Pascua Yaqui Nation & Tohono O'odham Nation 

Before vaccinations and pills, plants were medicine. Before scanners and computers, we looked and listened 

to our patients. In this technology driven society, traditional medicine has been placed behind the back 

burner. Even the simple act of human touch is scoffed at as being, at best, placebo. Dr. Michael Austin has 

spent the past eight years developing his therapy called Autonomic Body Therapy (ABT). ABT is a touchbased 

therapy. It is the synthesis of Meridian, Bowen, and Mind Body Therapies. Please join Dr. Austin in a 

discussion of these therapies and their merger into the single treatment modality, Autonomic Body Therapy. 

*If you can't make the presentation, come to the ABT Wellness Activity (Tuesday, March 29, 2011, Alvarado 

C, from 5:30 PM – 6:30 PM 

Alvarado H • Staying on the Active Path in Native Communities…a 

Lifespan Approach: Physical Activity Kit (PAK)* 

Theresa Clay, M.S. (Navajo) 

Health Promotion and Disease Prevention Coordinator - Albuquerque Area IHS 

Joe Law, B.S. (Klamath/Siletz/Northern Cheyenne) 

Health Promotion and Disease Prevention Coordinator - Portland Area IHS 

The epidemic of obesity impacts our country as a whole; American Indians of all ages have a higher 

prevalence of obesity than the general U.S. population. The PAK strategy refines an effective and efficient 

method to implement, evaluate and disseminate culturally appropriate physical activities with American 

Indian and Alaska Native communities. This workshop will provide an overview of the PAK and a discussion 

of its program evaluation and effectiveness. 

*There will be physical activity/movement during this workshop. 

16

17 


1:30 pm – 3:00 pm 

Alvarado B • How to Provide HIV Prevention Services to Youth in Areas or 

Communities with Limited Resources 

Kayla Walker (Choctaw) 

Founder & HIV Instructor/Educator – Mama Knows, Inc. 

This workshop will demonstrate how to engage youth in HIV prevention, and ways to help them become 

more aware of consequences related to high risk behaviors. Participants will learn how to identify a problem 

associated with HIV/AIDS (e.g. teen pregnancy or substance abuse), and then facilitate a discussion regarding 

knowledge gaps, misconceptions, and health disparities in American Indian/Alaska Native populations. After 

gaining a basic understanding of HIV/AIDS, participants will learn how to incorporate the medicine wheel goal 

setting technique, and how to create a fun atmosphere free of judgment and discrimination. This planning 

model may be used to address any health disparity, and participants can change it to fit the needs of their 

organization or entity. 

Alvarado C • The Path to Accessibility: Tips for Helping Deaf, Hard of 

Hearing, Late-Deafened and Deaf-Blind Tribal Members Obtain Spiritual 

and Physical Wellness* 

Mark Azure (Chippewa-Cree/Dakota/Tsimshian) 

Consultant & Spiritual Nourishment Provider – Sacred Circle 

Tribal members who experience hearing loss are just like any other tribal member; they need spiritual, 

medical, traditional and historical information in order to feed their mind, body and spirit. Communication is 

vital to continue important bonds between family and tribal members. Often tribal members who are deaf 

and are not able to participate in community events such as pow wows, traditional ceremonies or prayers 

find themselves isolated and eventually stray into non-tribal communities or unhealthy environments to 

search the fulfillment they need. Losing tribal members in this way breaks important bonds, and the tribe 

loses another member to the outside world. For example, an elder who has important lifelong history about 

tradition, medicine or family information, and loses their hearing later in life, may find that they are unable to 

share vital information with the tribe. A solution to this situation would be to provide note takers, captioners or 

have the elder work with tribal members in a 1 to 1, rather than group environment. This workshop will provide 

the audience with information on the different communication needs of tribal members who are born deaf, 

experience both blindness and deafness, or lose their hearing later in life. Different scenarios will be presented 

with methods for ensuring that information is shared in the best way to match a communication type. 


Alvarado F • Healing from Within 

Marilynn Jones-Parker, Ph.D. (Absentee Shawnee) 

Director of Behavioral Health - Absentee Shawnee Tribe of Oklahoma 

The presentation will focus on the use of bio-feedback in the behavioral health unit to address multiple 

symptoms related to mental health. These techniques help focus on a wellness approach, opposed to an 

illness model. The use of bio-feedback has many components that are utilized in our facility; however we 

will be demonstrating “healing rhythms” as one of the techniques that are used. This program incorporates 

creative visualization in the relaxation process. Most of the programs that are used in our clinic are based on 

breathing techniques that enhance the ability to cope with stressors. We utilize a holistic health approach, 

utilizing our sensory systems to address healthy lifestyles to induce relaxation and decrease stress. In 

essence, we will introduce how we can use our five senses, teaching alternative ways to decrease stress and 

promote wellness.

Alvarado G • Sacred Beginnings Project: Utilizing Community-Based 

Participatory (CBPR) Methods in the Design and Implementation of 

a Preconception Health Research Project on the Pine Ridge Indian 

Reservation 

Jennifer Richards, M.P.H. (Oglala/Lakota/Navajo/Taos) 

Sacred Beginnings/Otokahe Wakan Project Coordinator - Oglala Sioux Tribe Health Administration 

Lisa Schrader-Dillon, M.S.W. (Oglala Lakota) 

OST Health Administrator/NARCH Program Director – Oglala Sioux Tribe 

The Sacred Beginnings preconception health research project interventions are designed to increase 

knowledge of preconception health and its benefits at the community, provider, and individual level, through 

community-engaged and multi-level knowledge dissemination processes. The project follows a Tribal 

Participatory Process model that includes collaboration with a Tribal Working Group and cultural advisors, 

as well as reporting to a Tribal Research Review Board. Methods: A Tribal Working Group was developed 

to serve in an advisory role with an emphasis on incorporating the Lakota culture into project activities and 

materials. The working group has been vital in the development of a culturally relevant middle/high school 

preconception health curriculum and media awareness campaign. Approximately 350 community members 

completed a baseline community needs assessment to assist our working group and project staff in designing 

project interventions. Results: Results of the assessment indicate what community members may consider 

to be important in preparing for a healthy pregnancy. Reported priorities include: being tobacco free, not 

drinking alcohol, taking vitamins, staying a healthy weight, and learning about Lakota culture and traditions. 

This sample also gauged community perception on the best age for a woman to have her first baby, as well 

as what services are important prior to pregnancy. Conclusions: By collaborating with a Tribal Working Group 

and cultural advisors in the interpretation of data, such as our baseline community needs assessment, and 

designing interventions based on their input, this study demonstrates a unique model of CBPR that may be 

adapted to other indigenous and minority populations. 

Alvarado H • 6 Successful Strategies to Youth Suicide Prevention in Indian 

Country 

Julie Jimenez, M.S.W. 

Prevention Administrator – Gila River Healthcare Corporation 

Gila River Indian community in Sacaton, AZ, provides innovative approaches in youth suicide prevention, 

using the risk and protective factor theory for prevention, Learn how a current SAMHSA (Substance Abuse 

and Mental Health Services Administration) and US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) grant 

recipient has developed and initiated a suicide prevention program in this rural Native American community. 

Participants will gain information on 6 successful strategies used with Native youth, families, service providers 

as well as community partners in making this Indian community more suicide safe. The 6 strategies for suicide 

prevention will be discussed at length with the help of a Power Point and video. Participants will also discuss 

best practices in prevention, to include life skills building, suicide assessment and referral, gatekeeper training 

and social marketing. Participants will be able to explain how the risk and protective factors of prevention 

are key in the prevention of suicide among youth. The relevance of the risk and protective factors and the 

importance of connecting youth to hope will be explored as well providing the participants with resources for 

them to gain further information and knowledge. 

18


3:30 pm – 5:00 pm 

Alvarado B • Medicine Horse Therapy: It’s Different – It Works! 

Darla Delver 

President – Medicine Horse Therapy 

Ron Delver, B.Ed., B.A. 

Program Development – Medicine Horse Therapy 

Presenters will describe the Medicine Horse Therapy program (a results-oriented program), its underlying 

theories and principles and also how its innovative techniques make it stand out and differ from other 

programs. Delegates will see how Medicine Horse can be integrated into their existing equine and other 

programs, to facilitate the work of Elders, social workers, psychologists and other professionals. Medicine 

Horse is also extremely effective as a stand-alone program. Medicine Horse has been proven to be an 

effective component in the healing process of both victims and perpetrators of: violence, bullying, gang 

recruitment, aggression, substance abuse, sexual abuse and has succeeded in reducing suicides. It has 

successfully reached and facilitated the treatment of persons where other programs have failed. Most 

importantly, Medicine Horse connects with the disenfranchised and allows them to reconnect with their 

culture and existing supportive agencies. At all times, participants, horses and facilitators are all treated 

with the respect and dignity they deserve. The Department of Psychology at the University of Calgary has 

just begun a study of Medicine Horse and hopes to have preliminary results published and presented at 

international conferences by early next year. A discussion of this and other research, a sharing of case 

histories and success of past programs will be provided. 

This presentation consists of two 40-minute segments separated by a short break. Questions and comments 

from the floor will be encouraged. 

Alvarado C • Ten 10-Minute Meals and Other Skills to Heal Diabetes with 

Food 

Sally Fisher, M.D., M.S. 

Physician & Clinical Assistant Professor – University of New Mexico School of Medicine 

Caroline Trapp, APRN, M.S.N., BC-ADM, CDE 

Director of Diabetes Education and Care - Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine 

In October of 2010, an 8-week series of unique nutrition and cooking classes were held in three sites, jointly 

sponsored by the Navajo Nation Special Diabetes Projects in Window Rock, AZ, the Indian Pueblo Cultural 

Center in Albuquerque, NM, and the Center for Lifelong Learning at the Institute for American Indian Arts 

in Santa Fe, NM. Using a curriculum developed by the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine 

(PCRM), based on research that has shown the effectiveness of plant-based diet for diabetes, weight control 

and other health concerns, the program presented cooking and nutrition lessons that focused on a return 

to ancestral foods. This presentation will feature the key lessons of this 8-week program, including fun, 

interactive activities that anyone can use to teach groups how to turn diabetes around with food. 

19

Alvarado F • Circles of Life 

Will Fox, CADC (Hidatsa-Three Affiliated Tribes) 

Adult Program Coordinator - Gerald 'Tex' Fox Justice Center 

This presentation will focus mostly on the Spiritual and Mental aspects of sobriety (body and mind or heart 

and soul). Most North American Natives are more than likely to be visually oriented learners using the 

medicine wheel to guide the individual through the phases of sobriety, recovery and healing is a beneficial 

practice. Using the medicine wheel as a tool to guide or provide direction in the sobriety/recovery/healing 

process will assist the individual in gaining some understanding into their dependency issues. Additionally it 

to helps identify how to move from an external focus to an internal focus and helps to alleviate some of the 

fear of the unknown and misunderstanding. 

Alvarado G • Fun & Games: Up Close and Personal** 

Hiawatha Bouldin, Jr., CPS (Iroquois) 

Prevention Specialist - Eagle Ridge Institute, Inc. 

This workshop will address cultural barriers and human relationships essential in working with multiple 

populations and varied communities. Challenging the participant’s “comfort zones”, it allows them to become 

more confident in working with diverse (unfamiliar) groups, and helps them discover human interactions 

that create barriers to building real relationships. Interactive games and activities during the workshop are 

designed to reinforce youth academic skills, as well as social skills for youth and adults. Participants will learn 

techniques for establishing expectations, consistent consequences, and building relationships outside of their 

normal human circle. These skills are useful for children, youth and adults of all populations. Note: Attendees 

will perform some physical movements and participants will share “feelings” during out-briefs. 


**Limited to 35 participants 

Alvarado H • From the Badlands to Alcatraz Revisited: A Documentary and 

Discussion* 

Carmen Fourd (Oglala Lakota) 

PATHSTAR Swimmer & Retail Assistant 

Steve Yankton, CCHT (Oglala Lakota/Navajo) 

PATHSTAR Swimmer & Certified Clinical Hemodialysis Technician 


and Dr. Nancy Iverson (San Francisco) presented a pilot project, developed through PATHSTAR, encouraging 

healthy lifestyle and nutrition practices among Native Americans. Including a whole-foods based diet, daily 

exercise, and exploration of San Francisco community programs, the PATHSTAR San Francisco week 

culminated in September 2003 in an Alcatraz swim, an impressive feat with spiritual, historical, and cultural 

relevance, requiring conditioning, teamwork, bravery, fortitude, and commitment. Now an annual event, the 

program is chronicled in the documentary "From the Badlands to Alcatraz". Following the showing of the 

film, 2010 Lakota Alcatraz swimmers will share learnings, challenges, and triumphs they experienced as they 

participated in the PATHSTAR Alcatraz swim program. 

*Repeated: Session 9, Alvarado C 

20

Session 7 – Wednesday, March 30, 2011 

8:30 am – 10:00 am 

Alvarado B • Historical Trauma as a Foundation for Lateral Violence in 

Native American Communities 

Joan Chalifoux, TTT-C (Ojibway) 

Kanawayhitowin Programme Support Worker - Ontario Federation of Indian Friendship Centers 

Sara Johnson, M.Ed., M.A. (Pine Hill Tutelo Saponi of Choctaw Creek Descent) 

Life Long Care Programme Trainer - Ontario Federation of Indian Friendship Centers 

This hands-on and participatory workshop has a two-fold purpose. The first purpose is to examine the 

connection between historical trauma and lateral violence within Aboriginal communities and organizations. 

The second purpose is to enhance knowledge of techniques used in assisting Native American communities 

in healing from the effects of historical trauma. Workshop facilitators will guide the participants on a journey 

of reflection and healing from the effects of historical trauma. Workshop participants will develop and 

share positive cultural examples that can be easily replicated and adapted within other Native American 

communities. These Native American/Aboriginal cultural resources are currently in use throughout the 

Province of Ontario, within Friendship Centers, and urban Aboriginal organizations. 

Alvarado C • Social Marketing for Health 

Yvette Biggs, M.B.A. 

President – Focus Consulting 

Health Marketing Facilitator – Alberta Health Services 

Health care professionals and program planners have a unique opportunity for influencing social behaviors 

in relation to health issues. This presentation will provide an overview of key concepts that will enable health 

professionals and program planners to develop and effectively communicate a social marketing strategy. 

Increasing resource utilization, reducing program costs through community partnerships, and evaluating the 

impact of social marketing will also be discussed. The key components of this presentation include: 

• Social marketing key concepts 

• Setting objectives and identifying barriers 

• Know your product 

• Alberta Health Services – Tsuu T’ina Nation FASD “Circle of Friends” 

Social Marketing case study 

Alvarado F • Benefits of Adhering to Physical Activity, Fitness and Healthy 

Nutrition 

Thomas Yazzie, MFS, TSAC (Navajo) 

Master Fitness Specialist/Tactical Strength & Conditioning Specialist - Ak-Chin 

Health Education, Ak-Chin Indian Community 

This presentation discusses the process of designing a tribal wellness center and/or fitness facility to 

reduce morbidity and mortality rates, and to improve social and psychological benefits among tribal 

members. At the individual level, the process of developing a comprehensive wellness program is outlined 

through a discussion of the role of a certified personal trainer. Finally, the presentation demonstrates how 

physical activity and nutrition education may enhance behavior modification, thus improving self-esteem, 

cardiovascular health, peer relationships, and a healthier outlook on life. 

21

Alvarado G • Modifying Your Recipes: Improving the Health, Keeping the 

Taste 

Gail Gardner, M.S., RD (White Earth Ojibwe) 

Nutritionist/Diabetes Educator - White Earth Diabetes Project 

Trying to make your recipes lower fat and lower sugar can be a frustrating experience. All too often you end 

up with a dish that is tasteless, and visually not appealing. Gail Gardner has almost 20 years experience 

in modifying the sugar and fat, and keeping the taste and appearance of the original recipe. Gail will teach 

participants what each ingredient contributes to the overall dish (structure, flavor, sweetness, browning) and 

how to make successful substitutions. 

Alvarado H • Healing War Exposure: Integrative Care and Native 

Connections 

Victoria Bruner, LCSW, RN, BCETS (Cherokee) 

Director of Clinical Education - Department of Defense Deployment Health Clinical Center 

Thomas Wagner 

Director of Field Operations - New Mexico Department of Veterans' Services 

James Reede (San Carlos Apache) 

Iraq Combat Veteran 

Faced with pervasive loss, life threat, and moral conflict in the field of battle, the human body and brain 

adapt to extraordinary circumstances in extraordinary ways. These adaptations come at a high price, and 

many native and non-native men and women returning from Iraq and Afghanistan are paying that price 

every day. For the clinician who seeks to help, an understanding of the physiology of war-zone stress 

and resilience is an essential foundation, both for recovery from post-traumatic stress disorder and other 

conditions, and for addressing the stigma and shame that keep many service members and veterans from 

seeking and accepting the help and support they need. Additionally, the Native warrior ethos is a protective 

factor for the body, mind and spirit. Creating an integrative model of warrior care that is community based, 

intensive and using Native ritual enables natural resilience. Efforts to engage San Carlos war veterans will 

be discussed. 

Learning Objectives: 

• Explain the physiological roots of combat/operational stress effects in understandable, 

non-stigmatizing terms 

• Describe an integrative intensive modality of culturally sensitive healing 

• Create a space for discussion of the needs of Native American veterans 

22


10:30 am – 12:00 pm 

Alvarado B • The Path to Accessibility: Tips for Helping Deaf, Hard of 

Hearing, Late-Deafened and Deaf-Blind Tribal Members Obtain Spiritual 

and Physical Wellness 

Mark Azure (Chippewa-Cree/Dakota/Tsimshian) 

Consultant & Spiritual Nourishment Provider – Sacred Circle 

Tribal members who experience hearing loss are just like any other tribal member; they need spiritual, 

medical, traditional and historical information in order to feed their mind, body and spirit. Communication is 

vital to continue important bonds between family and tribal members. Often tribal members who are deaf 

and are not able to participate in community events such as pow wows, traditional ceremonies or prayers 

find themselves isolated and eventually stray into non-tribal communities or unhealthy environments to 

search the fulfillment they need. Losing tribal members in this way breaks important bonds, and the tribe 

loses another member to the outside world. For example, an elder who has important lifelong history about 

tradition, medicine or family information, and loses their hearing later in life, may find that they are unable to 

share vital information with the tribe. A solution to this situation would be to provide note takers, captioners 

or have the elder work with tribal members in a 1 to 1, rather than group environment. This workshop will 

provide the audience with information on the different communication needs of tribal members who are born 

deaf, experience both blindness and deafness, or lose their hearing later in life. Different scenarios will be 

presented with methods for ensuring that information is shared in the best way to match a communication 

type. 

Alvarado C • So You Think I’m Lazy and My Education Is Free?!! 

Julie Dorton Clark, Ph.D. (Kiowa/Absentee Shawnee) 

Assistant Professor & Associate Director – Oklahoma State University, Counseling Psychology Clinic 

Racism and discrimination exist in various forms. In this workshop participants will learn about nine beliefs 

or stereotypes people may hold about Native Americans and the subtle ways in which these beliefs may 

be communicated in daily interactions. These experiences, known as microaggressions, may be harmful 

due to their subtle and covert nature, as it leaves the recipient doubting their perception of the experience, 

which may result in feelings of frustration, self-doubt and isolation. Participants in this workshop will learn 

about three forms of microaggressions and more specifically about the nine themes that emerged as being 

the underlying messages four small groups of Native Americans reported experiencing on the job, in the 

community, or within their tribe. For example, one form of discrimination seems to be an overwhelming idea 

that Native Americans, “live off the government”, e.g. food, healthcare, and education are free, “…Indians are 

just handed all this money and they just sit on their butts all day long and do nothing.” The ‘aggressor’ gives 

little thought to what was taken away or what was sacrificed during the imposed process of assimilation 

yet attributes certain perceived lifestyles to laziness. These nine areas of subtle forms of discrimination will 

serve as topics of discussion, examining how they influence the overall well-being of Native people and 

ideas may be generated as to how to prevent these messages from being harmful to our health. 

23

Alvarado F • Honoring Tribal Wisdom: Honoring the Gift of Tobacco 

Natalie Thomas, B.S.W. (Laguna Pueblo/Otoe Missouria) 

Healthy Heart Coordinator - Pueblo of Laguna Community Health & Wellness 

This presentation provides participants with the opportunity to learn an effective, culturally sensitive, and 

respectful way of providing tobacco cessation to their tribal community members. Two primary goals are 

accomplished during this process: cultural traditions are strengthened, and mind, body and spiritual health 

are improved. Participants will 

• Learn the difference between traditional and commercial tobacco 

• Learn there is an origin and purpose of traditional tobacco use for tribes 

• Understand the dilemma created by emergence of commercial tobacco 

• Understand barriers to health education surrounding commercial tobacco 

• Understand respectful tribal use 

• Partner and support full circle 

• Develop an effective tobacco cessation program 

Alvarado G • White Earth Diabetes Bingo* 

Paulie Neisen (White Earth) 

Nutrition Assistant - White Earth Tribal Diabetes Project 

Mickey Hodges (White Earth) 

Transportation Aid for CHR Program - White Earth Tribal Health 

This workshop is an interactive presentation designed to show you how easy it can be to deliver health 

education through playing BINGO! Diabetes Education Bingo teaches participants how to stay healthy while 

living with diabetes, and Healthy Living Bingo teaches diabetes prevention. Participants will have a chance to 

play both games and learn how easy it is to teach their own communities about diabetes prevention, healthy 

eating and the importance of physical activity. Come join this crew and have fun playing BINGO! 

*White Earth Healthy Living Bingo to follow: Session 9, Alvarado G 

Alvarado H • A Cooperative Community Providing New Plans for Healthier 

Nutrition 

Virginia J. Sutter, Ph.D., M.S.W. (Northern Arapaho) 

Executive Director & CEO - Blue Mountain Associates, Inc. 

Rita Gilliam 

Health Educator & Program Coordinator – Blue Mountain Associates, Inc. 

Blue Mountain Associates, Inc. is an American Indian owned and operated 501 (C) 3 corporation devoted 

to developing and implementing health and social service programs for American Indians in Indian Country. 

This workshop will provide an overview of several community nutrition projects, and demonstrate new and 

innovative ways to bring healthier nutrition to low-income, Native families. Nutrition projects discussed during 

this workshop include recent collaboration with the tribal Arapaho Ranch to commercially produce and sell 

organic grass-fed beef, as well as the development of fresh fruit orchards and a raspberry farm. American 

Indians have historically looked after one another, with emphasis on the very old and very young. Join us as 

we discover better ways to serve our people, using traditional ways of healthy food for a healthy mind and 

body. 

24

25 


1:30 pm – 3:00 pm 

Alvarado B • Fun & Games: Up Close and Personal* 

Hiawatha Bouldin, Jr., CPS (Iroquois) 

Prevention Specialist - Eagle Ridge Institute, Inc. 

This workshop will address cultural barriers and human relationships essential in working with multiple 

populations and varied communities. Challenging the participant’s “comfort zones”, it allows them to become 

more confident in working with diverse (unfamiliar) groups, and helps them discover human interactions 

that create barriers to building real relationships. Interactive games and activities during the workshop are 

designed to reinforce youth academic skills, as well as social skills for youth and adults. Participants will 

learn techniques for establishing expectations, consistent consequences, and building relationships outside 

of their normal human circle. These skills are useful for children, youth and adults of all populations. Note: 

Attendees will perform some physical movements and participants will share “feelings” during out-briefs. 


Alvarado C • From the Badlands to Alcatraz Revisited: A Documentary and 

Discussion* 

David Tobacco (Oglala Lakota) 

PATHSTAR Swimmer & Retail Assistant 

Tate Locust, EMT (Oglala Lakota/Cherokee) 

PATHSTAR Swimmer & Emergency Medical Technician 


and Dr. Nancy Iverson (San Francisco) presented a pilot project, developed through PATHSTAR, 

encouraging healthy lifestyle and nutrition practices among Native Americans. Including a whole-foods 

based diet, daily exercise, and exploration of San Francisco community programs, the PATHSTAR San 

Francisco week culminated in September 2003 in an Alcatraz swim, an impressive feat with spiritual, 

historical, and cultural relevance, requiring conditioning, teamwork, bravery, fortitude, and commitment. Now 

an annual event, the program is chronicled in the documentary "From the Badlands to Alcatraz". Following 

the showing of the film, 2010 Lakota Alcatraz swimmers will share learnings, challenges, and triumphs they 

experienced as they participated in the PATHSTAR Alcatraz swim program. 

Alvarado F • State Support for Addressing Tobacco Use Among American 

Indians 

Kerry D. Bird, M.S.W. (Sisseton-Wahpeton Oyote/Lumbee) 

Program Coordinator - North Carolina Commission of Indian Affairs 

April Bryant (Lumbee) 

Tobacco Cessation Coordinator – Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina 

North Carolina is the country’s leading tobacco producing state and the corporate headquarters of many 

major tobacco companies. It is also home to eight tribes and has the largest American Indian population 

of any state east of the Mississippi. Tobacco was not only a sacred cultural plant; it was also the economic 

livelihood of many tribal communities. Smoking rates and the use of commercial tobacco products by 

American Indians in North Carolina exceeds that of all other ethnic groups in the state. The North Carolina 

Commission of Indian Affairs has worked successfully with the Health and Wellness Trust Fund and the 

Tobacco Control Branch to address these health disparities. 

Participants will learn how tribes have successfully developed relationships with state agencies and received 

funding to address health issues impacting American Indians. From faith-based initiatives to the formation

of an American Indian Health Board, a holistic multi-tribal approach is being implemented. An overview on 

program activities, resources developed, coalitions formed, and policies implemented will be given. While 

progress is being made, more work needs to be done. By working collaboratively, scarce funding is being 

used to maximize its effectiveness. 

Alvarado G • White Earth Healthy Living Bingo 

Paulie Neisen (White Earth) 

Nutrition Assistant - White Earth Tribal Diabetes Project 

Mickey Hodges (White Earth) 

Transportation Aid for CHR Program - White Earth Tribal Health 

This workshop is an interactive presentation designed to show you how easy it can be to deliver health 

education through playing BINGO! Diabetes Education Bingo teaches participants how to stay healthy while 

living with diabetes, and Healthy Living Bingo teaches diabetes prevention. Participants will have a chance to 

play both games and learn how easy it is to teach their own communities about diabetes prevention, healthy 

eating and the importance of physical activity. Come join this crew and have fun playing BINGO! 

Alvarado H • ‘The Super-Man/Woman Drama Triangle’: a Relationship 

Triangle of Abuse and Addictions (© Rogelio Sanchez, September 2007) 

Rogelio Sanchez, M.S.W. (Huasteca) 

CEO - Asi Counseling & Professional Services 

Anita Jackson, M.S.W. (Cree) 

Assistant Director - Asi Counseling & Professional Services 

This model is a dialectic interactive approach that gives counselors a way to work with their clients 

individually or in a group. Counselors will be able to immediately use this method to explore issues 

and concerns relating to victimization, rescuing, and persecuting in the client's life situations. Clients 

are then able to reflect on the labels they have recognized as their own and are then able to make 

positive changes. This is a unique approach that is not taught anywhere but has been found to be 

effective with domestic violence clients. 

26

Native American Sweat Lodge 

About the Sweat Lodge 

The sweat lodge is a sacred purification ceremony 

used to heal and restore the mind, body and spirit. 

This traditional ceremony is practiced among many 

different tribal groups throughout North America. 

Preparation and participation requires sincerity and 

positive attitude to ensure a meaningful outcome. 

The sweat lodge represents our mother, the earth. 

To begin, the rocks are heated or cooked outside 

the sweat lodge in the sacred fire pit. Inside the 

sweat lodge a depression is dug in the center to 

cradle rocks brought in with forked sticks. The hot 

rocks or cooked lava rocks are called ‘grandfather’ 

because they are the oldest things on earth. Rocks 

represent ancestors, elders and the long history 

of Native peoples. Although simple to build, every 

detail is symbolic. 

The sweat bath and its variation is a popular method 

used among North American Indians. Tribes in 

the Central Plains, the Southwest, the Great Basin 

and the Eastern Woodlands use this cleansing 

ceremony. 

Next, sprinkling the hot rocks with water from a 

straw broom or a hollowed buffalo horn produces 

steam. Steam fills the entire space of the sweat 

lodge symbolizing the breath of life. The steam 

creates a heightened and balanced relationship with 

the earth, the Creator and spirit beings. The door 

faces east, welcoming a new day from the Creator. 

After a sweat lodge experience, participants are 

refreshed and reborn into the world. This form of 

Native healing is a natural treatment used to cleanse 

negative impurities and toxins. It is a place to pray, 

meditate and heal. 

Individuals who have been under the influence 

of drugs or alcohol in the 24 hours preceding the 

ceremony do not enter the ceremonial area or the 

sweat lodge. 

Women and men usually participate in the ceremony 

together. Following Native American tradition, 

moon time (menstruating) women do not enter the 

ceremonial area, as well as pregnant or nursing 

women. Please honor these traditions. 

If you have any questions and are not sure what 

is appropriate for you or your condition at the 

time, be sure to ask the ceremonial leader or a 

knowledgeable staff person before entering any 

ceremony. 

Special thanks to our Sweat Leader & Assistants: 

Sweat Leader – Mr. Glen Juste (Pima/Tohono O’odham) 

Assistant – Mr. Wayne Juste (Pima/Tohono O’odham) 

Assistant – Ms. Guadalupe Ibarra (Apache/Mexican) 

Assistant – Mr. Lorenzo Harrison (Pima) 

Monday – March 28 

Co-ed (Men & Women): 

5:30 - 6:30 pm 

Sweat Lodge Schedule 

Tuesday – March 29 

Men’s Ceremony: 

6:30 - 7:30 am 

Women’s Ceremony: 

5:30 - 6:30 pm 

Wednesday – March 30 


6:30 - 7:30 am 


3:30 - 4:30 pm 

Location: Hotel Albuquerque (southeast of Grand Pool Area, exit North Atrium) 

****Please wear comfortable clothing and footwear**** 

27

Exhibitors & Vendors 

Ann Yazzie Jewelry 

Contact: Maryann Yazzie 

654 S. Banning 

Mesa, AZ 85206 

Phone: (928) 660-3576 

Maryann_w_yazzie@hotmail. 

com 

Avalon Counseling and 

Consultation 

Contact: Joanna Johnson 

602 N Adams St. 

Tallahassee, FL 32301 

Phone: (850) 727-8728 

Joannajohnson@ 

therecoverycenter.new 

www.avaloncounseling.net 

Eagle Books – Kauffman 

and Associates, Inc. 

Contact: Kelly Bundy 

165 S. Howard Street, Ste. 200 

Spokane, WA 99201 

Kelly.bundy@kauffmaninc.com 

www.kauffmaninc.com 

IHS – Division of 

Epidemiology & Disease 

Prevention 

Contact: Roberta Paisano 

5300 Homestead Rd. NE 

Albuquerque, NM 87110 

Phone: (505) 248-4132 

Roberta.paisano@ihs.gov 

www.ihs.gov/epi 

Indian Arts & Crafts 

Vendor 

Contact: Arlene Salt 

8674 S. 4830 W. 

West Jordan, UT 84081 

Phone: (801) 792-6350 

swmorenci@yahoo.com 

JT Mountain Jewelry 

Contact: Mary Tenorio 

PO Box 534 

Santo Domingo Pueblo, NM 

87052 

Mf_tenorio@msn.com 

Diabetes Education in 

Tribal Schools Curriculum 

Contact: Dawn Plumer 

PO Box 180 

Cass Lake, MN 56633 

Phone: (218) 335-4252 

dawn.plumer@lltc.edu 

www.lltc.edu 

MindShift Holistic 

Wellness Center 

Contact: Majick RavenHawk 

5272 S. Lewis Ave., Suite 220 

Tulsa, OK 74105 

Phone: (918) 712-8886 

Dr.ravenhawk@mindshifttherapy. 

com 

www.mindshifttherapy.com 

Navajo Emergency 

Medical Service 

Contact: Twila Curtis 

PO Box 3360 

Window Rock, AZ 86515 

Kmaria.usmc@gmail.com 

PATHSTAR 

Contact: Chrystal White Eyes 

601 Van Ness Suite E 711 

San Francisco, CA 94102 

Phone: (415) 626-5426 

chrystalsioux@yahoo.com 

www.pathstar.org 

Physicians Committee 

for Responsible Medicine 

(PCRM) 

Contact: Caroline Trapp 

5100 Wisconsin Ave. NW St. 400 

Washington, DC, 20016 

Phone: (202) 686-2210 

ctrapp@pcrm.org 

www.pcrm.org 

Tribal Connections 4 

Corners – National Library 

of Medicine 

Contact: John Bramble 

10 North 1900 East 

Salt Lake City, UT 

Phone: (801) 587-3650 

Fax: (801) 581-3632 

jbramble@rml4.utah.edu 

www.tribalconnections.org 

National Resource Center 

on Native American Aging 

Contact: Jacob Davis 

Center for Rural Health, 

Room 4535 

UND School of Medicine and 

Health Sciences 

501 N Columbia Road Stop 9037 

Grand Forks, ND 58202-9037 

Phone: (701) 777-6780 

jacob.davis2@med.und.edu 

www.ruralhealth.und.edu/ 

projects/nrcnaa 

College of Liberal Studies 

- University of Oklahoma 

Contact: Jeff Roby 

1610 Asp Ave, Suite 108 

Norman, OK 73072 

Phone: (405) 325-1061 

jeffroby@ou.edu 

www.cls.ou.edu 

28

Upcoming Events 

14th Annual Native Diabetes Prevention Conference 

June 13 - 17, 2011 

Eldorado Hotel & Spa • Santa Fe, New Mexico 

2.0 CEUs (20 hours) • Register Online: www.aii.ou.edu 

'Protecting the Generations: A Lifespan Approach to Healing, 

Managing & Preventing Diabetes' 

Overview 

The conference brings together individuals representing academia, tribal health systems, public health 

researchers, practitioners, behavioral health, and tribal members from AI/AN and Canadian First Nation 

communities. General sessions, workshops and wellness activities will focus on diabetes prevention, 

methods of healing for individuals living with diabetes and self-management practices. Conference sessions 

include evidence and practice-based programs, AI/AN and First Nations diabetes research and experiential 

learning. 

Registration 

Regular (January 1, 2011 - May 15, 2011) = $350 

Late/On site (After May 15, 2011) = $450 

Conference combined with Native Fitness Training = $500 

2011 Native Fitness Training 

June 12 - 14, 2011 

Eldorado Hotel & Spa • Santa Fe, New Mexico 

1.6 CEUs (16 hours) • Register Online: www.aii.ou.edu 

Overview 

Join us for an informative training on planning health promotion and fitness programs in Native communities. 

Topics covered during the training include anatomy and physiology, biomechanics, nutrition, exercise 

and weight management, instructional skills, class development, marketing, injury prevention and safety, 

special populations, choreography, and legal considerations. In addition to building a strong knowledge 

base, participants will learn how to organize, instruct, and market a Native-specific fitness program in tribal 

communities. Training is limited to 50 participants. 

Registration 

Regular registration (ends on April 30, 2011): $250 

Late/On site registration fee (May 1, 2011 - June 12, 2011): $350 

Native Fitness Training combined with Native Diabetes Conference: $500 

29

31 

Notes

33 

Notes

Heart Healthy Recipes 

© Lois Ellen Frank 

Indian No Fry Bread or Tortilla 

Bread 

This recipe makes Indian tortilla breads that can be 

cooked on an open flame grill or open flame instead 

of fried. 

4 cups organic unbleached or whole-wheat flour 

2 tablespoons baking powder 

1 teaspoon kosher salt 

1½ cups warm water 

In a medium-size mixing bowl combine flour, baking 

powder and kosher salt. Gradually stir in the water 

until the dough becomes soft and pliable without 

sticking to the bowl. 

Knead the dough on a lightly floured cutting board 

or surface for 4 minutes, folding the outer edges of 

the dough towards the center. 

Return the dough to the bowl, cover with plastic 

wrap, and let rest for at least 30 minutes to allow it 

to rise. 

Shape the dough into small-sized balls and roll 

out using a rolling pin or with your hands to ¼-inch 

in width on a lightly floured surface. I always use 

my hands, which makes for slightly uneven round 

breads but everyone will know they were hand 

made and I think it gives each bread a little more 

character. Stretch or roll the dough out so that it is 

approximately 8 to 10 inches in diameter. 

Heat a cast iron skillet or open flame grill until 

very hot. Place your shaped dough circle onto 

the hot pan or open flame grill, and let it cook for 

approximately for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until it 

browns then turn the bread over and cook another 2 

to 3 minutes until bread is completely done. 

If you are cooking these breads over an open flame 

or on a grill, cook until the dough starts to turn 

golden brown and puffs a little. Turn over and cook 

until both sides have brown spots and the dough is 

completely cooked. 

Repeat this process with each piece of dough. 

Keep warm between two clean kitchen towels. 

Serve immediately with your favorite taco topping. 

35

These breads can be used with any taco recipes or 

served as bread with any meal. 

Makes 12 no fry or grilled tortilla breads. 

By © Lois Ellen Frank 

Green Chile Stew 

This recipe is a plant-based no meat version of a 

traditional Native green chile stew. It is delicious 

and hearty, perfect for a cold winter meal. 

½ cup water 

1 large organic onion, diced 

2 teaspoons garlic, finely chopped 

2 cups roasted, seeded and chopped mild New 

Mexico green chiles 

½ 28 oz. can plum tomatoes with basil, no salt 

added (chopped) 

3 cups water 

1½ pounds Dutch yellow potatoes, or about 20 

small potatoes, wash and diced with skins 

1 cup organic frozen corn kernels 

Salt and pepper to taste 


In a cast iron skillet over medium to high heat, heat 

½ cup water until hot then add onion. Sauté the 

onion for 4 minutes until clear. Add garlic and sauté 

for 1 minute. Add the chopped green chiles and 

cook for 2 minutes. Add the chopped tomatoes and 

cook for another 2 minutes. Add the water and the 

potatoes and bring to a boil. 

Reduce heat and simmer on medium for 35 

minutes or until the potatoes are soft. Add the corn 

kernels, then the salt and pepper to taste. Serve 

immediately. 

Serves 6 to 8 


Tortillas de Maís, Corn Tortillas, 

from the Taco Table Cookbook 

Corn tortillas are available in all supermarkets 

today and are certainly an option when making taco 

dishes, but I would really encourage all of you to 

make your own homemade corn tortillas, even if 

only once. 

I can almost guarantee, however, that once you’ve 

held the dough in your hands, and placed it onto a 

cooking comal or skillet and made into fresh warm, 

moist, corn tortillas you are sure to be a convert. I 

didn’t grow up making corn tortillas on a daily basis 

so when I started to make them from scratch it 

seemed a little bit foreign to me. But once I realized 

how easy it was to do, how delicious the tortillas 

were to eat, and how much I enjoyed the process, I 

now make corn tortillas all of the time. 

Both Alma Aguirre-Loya and Noe Cano grew up with 

mothers that made tortillas every day. Alma, who 

is from Northern Mexico, had either corn or flour 

tortillas on a daily basis, while Noe always only had 

corn tortillas. Alma continues today to make tortillas 

every day for her children, while Noe teaches how to 

make tortillas at the Santa Fe School of Cooking in 

Santa Fe, New Mexico in their cooking classes. 

Below is the recipe as I was taught how to make 

corn tortillas from both Alma and Noe. 

2 cups Fresh Corn Masa Flour or Maseca brand 

corn masa flour 

1 teaspoon kosher salt 

2 cups water 

In a medium-size mixing bowl, combine the corn 

flour and water and mix together until you have 

formed a dough. You can do this with a spoon, but I 

always use my hands. 

36

Heart Healthy Recipes (cont.) 

After the corn flour and water is completely mixed, 

using your hands form balls just smaller than a gold 

ball and set aside. 

Preheat your comal or cast iron skillet so that it is 

hot. 

In a tortilla press, place one ball in the center of the 

tortilla press and press together to make one corn 

tortilla. I use a plastic bag that I cut in half leaving a 

seam on one side so that I can place the corn masa 

ball inside the plastic so that it doesn’t stick to the 

tortilla press. 

Remove the tortilla and place on the comal and 

cook the first side of the tortilla for 10 to 15 seconds, 

then turn over and cook for approximately 30to 40 

seconds, then turn over again and cook until it puffs 

and the tortilla is done. 

stir. Cook for another 2 minutes, stirring constantly. 

Remove from heat. Serve. 

Serves 6 or 8 as a side dish. 

NOTE: For the roasted sweet corn, wet each ear 

of corn and place on a sheet tray. Add enough 

water to cover the bottom of the tray, about ½ inch 

of water. Place in a 350-degree oven and roast for 

approximately 10 minutes, remove from oven, turn 

over the ears of corn and cook for an additional 10 

minutes. Remove from the oven, peel the husks and 

cut the kernels from the cob. Discard the husks and 

cob. Use as instructed from the recipe. 


Place the cooked tortilla in a kitchen towel inside a 

basket or bowl and prepare the next tortilla following 

the same steps. Stack the tortilla on top of each 

other to keep them warm inside the towel. 

Serve warm with your favorite taco recipe. 

Makes 16 corn tortillas. 


37 

Three Sister’s Sauté 

Olive oil cooking spray 

½ white onion, diced 

2 cloves garlic, finely chopped 

2 cups organic zucchini, cut into ¼ inch cubes 

1½ cups cooked organic cranberry or pinto beans 

or (1) 15oz can organic pinto beans 

1 cup corn kernels, cut from the cobs of 2 ears 

oven roasted corn 

½ teaspoon kosher salt 

1/8 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper 

Spray olive oil onto cast iron skillet to prevent 

sticking. Heat skillet over medium to high heat until 

hot but not smoking. Sauté onions for 2 minutes until 

clear. Add garlic and zucchini and sauté for another 

2 minutes. Add the cooked beans and corn kernels, 

Blue Corn Posole Mush 

For the Blue Corn Posole: 

1 15-oz bag dried Blue Corn Posole 

1 Quart Water 


Wash the dried blue corn posole in cold water and 

remove any dirt or stones. Drain and Rinse. 

Place the entire contents into a Slow Cooker or 

Crock Pot and cover with one-quart water. Bring 

to a boil, reduce heat and simmer over night or for 

approximately 8 hours. Turn off heat and set aside.

For the Blue Corn Mush: 

1 cup finely ground blue corn meal 

2 cups water 

Recipe adapted from Foods That Fight Pain by Neal 

Barnard, MD; recipe by Jennifer Raymond. Revised 

by Lois Ellen Frank 

In a small saucepan over medium to high heat, 

heat the water until it boils. Place the cup of finely 

ground blue corn meal into a small saucepan and 

slowly add the boiling water mixing the corn meal to 

prevent any lumps from forming. Using a whisk mix 

together completely. Return to the stove and heat 

slowly over low to medium heat, stirring constantly. 

Cook, slowly, continuing to stir, for about five 

minutes, or until it turns smooth and is thick. 

Add gruel to the posole and reheat slowly over 

low to medium heat stirring to thicken entire pot of 

posole and to prevent burning. 


Serve hot topped with homemade New Mexico Red 

Chile. 

Serves 6 


Mixed Berry and Apple Fruit 

Compote 

2 cups peeled, cored and chopped apples 

½ cup frozen juice concentrate 

2 cups Mixed Berry Medley, strawberries, 

blueberries, blackberries and raspberries, fresh 

or frozen, unsweetened 

1 cup unsweetened applesauce 

½ teaspoon ground cinnamon or to taste 

In a medium-sized saucepan combine chopped 

apples and apple juice concentrate. Bring to a boil, 

stir then add the mixed berry medley. Bring to a 

boil again, then reduce the heat and simmer on low 

heat, covered and for about 25 minutes, or until fruit 

is tender when pierced with a fork. Mash lightly. 

Add the applesauce, heat until the dessert is hot. 

Sprinkle with cinnamon to and serve immediately. 

Note: if the only applesauce available is sweetened, 

adding the berries is a good way to dilute and make 

it a healthier dish. 

38

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