Meet Ms. Tabrum
Photo By: Royce B.
By: Megan B.
Posted: February 6, 2012
Growing up between New Zealand and California was hard for her. “My accent was so thick. No one could understand me,” Tabrum said, she attended high school in California, where her favorite subject was history, including world and social movements, because her teachers were passionate about what they taught. When asked about favorite memories from high school, she laughed and mentioned her sophomore year as class president with her sister as vice president. She enjoyed being involved in different activities and school events, which is evident now in her teaching.
Ms. Tabrum had a hard time entering college, but she worked and earned multiple scholarships for Atlanta Georgia, majoring in political science and women’s studies. She explained that it was hard to keep up with classes and scholarships, but she loved college. Her favorite memory about college was when she was working at the Carter Center as an intern and was given the opportunity to present a speech to President Jimmy Carter. After giving her speech she reached for a handshake and was taken by surprised when she was kissed on the cheek. Laughing Ms. Tabrum stated, “who gets a kiss on the cheek by the President?”
Tabrum chose to work in New Mexico because she wanted to work with Native American students and live in a more rural area. She explained that she thought the Kirtland community was closely knit with plentiful parent-student involvement. She opened up more about what she loved about KCHS: friendly, supportive, lots of energy, lots of sass on the student’s part, and more. What she loves most is it’s students. “When they really let themselves for it, they dream big,” she said without hesitation.
She went on to discuss why she chose New Mexico Gear Up. Tabrum was originally applying for another job but learned of a different position. A day before her interview she discovered that she would be helping students get into college and changed her job course to pursue Gear Up. She understood that it’s hard getting into college and wanted to be able to contribute to students.
Tabrum stands out to the students as unique and interesting. She’s a teacher that students go to, asking for advice about college and more.
Posted: February 6, 2012
Growing up between New Zealand and California was hard for her. “My accent was so thick. No one could understand me,” Tabrum said, she attended high school in California, where her favorite subject was history, including world and social movements, because her teachers were passionate about what they taught. When asked about favorite memories from high school, she laughed and mentioned her sophomore year as class president with her sister as vice president. She enjoyed being involved in different activities and school events, which is evident now in her teaching.
Ms. Tabrum had a hard time entering college, but she worked and earned multiple scholarships for Atlanta Georgia, majoring in political science and women’s studies. She explained that it was hard to keep up with classes and scholarships, but she loved college. Her favorite memory about college was when she was working at the Carter Center as an intern and was given the opportunity to present a speech to President Jimmy Carter. After giving her speech she reached for a handshake and was taken by surprised when she was kissed on the cheek. Laughing Ms. Tabrum stated, “who gets a kiss on the cheek by the President?”
Tabrum chose to work in New Mexico because she wanted to work with Native American students and live in a more rural area. She explained that she thought the Kirtland community was closely knit with plentiful parent-student involvement. She opened up more about what she loved about KCHS: friendly, supportive, lots of energy, lots of sass on the student’s part, and more. What she loves most is it’s students. “When they really let themselves for it, they dream big,” she said without hesitation.
She went on to discuss why she chose New Mexico Gear Up. Tabrum was originally applying for another job but learned of a different position. A day before her interview she discovered that she would be helping students get into college and changed her job course to pursue Gear Up. She understood that it’s hard getting into college and wanted to be able to contribute to students.
Tabrum stands out to the students as unique and interesting. She’s a teacher that students go to, asking for advice about college and more.
Winter Pep Rally
Photos By: Kyler S.
By: Megan B.
Posted: February 10, 2012
A wave of students crashed into the Bronco Arena within minutes of 1st hour for a winter sport Pep Rally. Students were welcomed in as the KC Soundforce drumline played. A very nerdy Ms. Webb began the pep rally with the recognition of the winter sports athletes: wrestling, girls basketball, boys basketball, and the cheerleaders.
Student Council then called out 1 representative for each grade to come out to the floor of the Arena for a game. 8 gummy worms were hidden at the bottom of a pan covered with whipped cream. The objective was a race to pull out all 8 gummy worms first without using their hands. As the reps threw their faces into the whipped cream filled pan, the crowd roared with class spirit. It was the sophomore class that screamed the loudest as their rep, Sadie Charlie, won the challenge.
The next game was the Cheetos Toss. 2 reps from each class were chosen and paired up. One was told to lay on the floor to have their face covered in whipped cream. The other student would throw Cheeto Puffs at his or her partner’s face, trying to make it stick. The team with the most Cheetos wins. Laughter filled the gym as the game began. Freshman representatives Star Kester and Raydell Chee won with a total of 9 Cheetos.
Nerdy Ms. Webb took up the mic again and called down the nominees for Winter Royalty, which was made up to two representatives were selected to represent KC’s clubs, including: BPA, FFA, FCCLA, NHS, Art, Student Council, Choir, Guitar, Band, NHS, And JROTC. "What I really like about the Winter Royalty is that the nominees come from the clubs. I think it's good that they get recognition," replied Principle, Mrs. Becenti when asked of her thoughts of the royalty nominees.
After being introduced individually Stu.Co began preparation for another game, Blind Free Throws. 1 representative was picked from each class and was required to spin around 15 times before attempting to throw a free throw. Freshman, Bertarm Yazzie entertained the whole student body as he shot in opposite directions, while a battle went on between the senior and junior reps. It was senior Isiah Raymond who was able to shoot both free throws.
The real competition began as students chanted their class names and years to win the spirit stick. Judges were Mr. Adair, Mr. Walker, and Mrs. Becenti. Freshmen and sophomores were elimited in the first round. Rivalry sparked as the fight for the spirit stick came down to the juniors and seniors. The seniors and juniors cheered back and forth until finally it was the seniors who won the spirit stick. The seniors erupted with cheers, chanting 2012 over and over.
Attention went to the drumline, who had prepared a special performance. The drummers hadn't touched a marching drum since early November. Determined to give a good preformance, they called two emergency practices, resulting in over 4 hours of practice in 12 hours. KC drumline is made up of, Jerrod Noble, Addias Begay, Kanani Tapaha, Marino Vigil, Zachary Quintero, Lanea Alfred, Coeburn Palmer, Shaylin Johnson, and Sherrie Silversmith. "I'll tell you, the most great and amazing people of the pep rally is the drumline. They’re awesome," commented Ms. Webb. Students filed out of the arena after their performance buzzing with energy.
By: Megan B.
Posted: February 10, 2012
A wave of students crashed into the Bronco Arena within minutes of 1st hour for a winter sport Pep Rally. Students were welcomed in as the KC Soundforce drumline played. A very nerdy Ms. Webb began the pep rally with the recognition of the winter sports athletes: wrestling, girls basketball, boys basketball, and the cheerleaders.
Student Council then called out 1 representative for each grade to come out to the floor of the Arena for a game. 8 gummy worms were hidden at the bottom of a pan covered with whipped cream. The objective was a race to pull out all 8 gummy worms first without using their hands. As the reps threw their faces into the whipped cream filled pan, the crowd roared with class spirit. It was the sophomore class that screamed the loudest as their rep, Sadie Charlie, won the challenge.
The next game was the Cheetos Toss. 2 reps from each class were chosen and paired up. One was told to lay on the floor to have their face covered in whipped cream. The other student would throw Cheeto Puffs at his or her partner’s face, trying to make it stick. The team with the most Cheetos wins. Laughter filled the gym as the game began. Freshman representatives Star Kester and Raydell Chee won with a total of 9 Cheetos.
Nerdy Ms. Webb took up the mic again and called down the nominees for Winter Royalty, which was made up to two representatives were selected to represent KC’s clubs, including: BPA, FFA, FCCLA, NHS, Art, Student Council, Choir, Guitar, Band, NHS, And JROTC. "What I really like about the Winter Royalty is that the nominees come from the clubs. I think it's good that they get recognition," replied Principle, Mrs. Becenti when asked of her thoughts of the royalty nominees.
After being introduced individually Stu.Co began preparation for another game, Blind Free Throws. 1 representative was picked from each class and was required to spin around 15 times before attempting to throw a free throw. Freshman, Bertarm Yazzie entertained the whole student body as he shot in opposite directions, while a battle went on between the senior and junior reps. It was senior Isiah Raymond who was able to shoot both free throws.
The real competition began as students chanted their class names and years to win the spirit stick. Judges were Mr. Adair, Mr. Walker, and Mrs. Becenti. Freshmen and sophomores were elimited in the first round. Rivalry sparked as the fight for the spirit stick came down to the juniors and seniors. The seniors and juniors cheered back and forth until finally it was the seniors who won the spirit stick. The seniors erupted with cheers, chanting 2012 over and over.
Attention went to the drumline, who had prepared a special performance. The drummers hadn't touched a marching drum since early November. Determined to give a good preformance, they called two emergency practices, resulting in over 4 hours of practice in 12 hours. KC drumline is made up of, Jerrod Noble, Addias Begay, Kanani Tapaha, Marino Vigil, Zachary Quintero, Lanea Alfred, Coeburn Palmer, Shaylin Johnson, and Sherrie Silversmith. "I'll tell you, the most great and amazing people of the pep rally is the drumline. They’re awesome," commented Ms. Webb. Students filed out of the arena after their performance buzzing with energy.
KYA Grand Opening
By: Megan B.
Posted: February 9, 2012
Saturday, January 21st, around 10:50 a.m representatives from, BHP Southwest Financial, San Juan County, Conoco Phillips, ORE systems, and Western Refinery cut the ribbon to a new playground for the grand opening of the new Kirtland Youth Association building. After a few pictures were taken the crowd moved towards the flag that overlooked the Riverview Golf Course. Sung by KCHS junior, Lisette Truitt, the National Anthem rang clear through the whipping wind. The United States flag was raised by Rodney and Susan Guillory.
All 12 board members lined up with scissors to cut the ribbon to the gymnasium. Each grasped hold of the yellow ribbon and with one smooth cut, the new building was officially open. Guests were welcomed in by Jessica Hamblin, Thijs Thomas, Marissa Thompson, Karl Long, Mark Frazzini, Matthew Collard, and Darien Kamae, students who work at KYA and go to KCHS. "I like it at KYA because it’s great after school work and I get to really know the kids," stated senior, Karl Long. These students from the Kirtland community represented the workers at KYA. "They do it out of the goodness in their hearts," Mr.Walker stated.
Scott Micklin began the opening ceremony by recognizing San Juan County board members, San Juan United Way Vice President and others. Guest speakers talked about the value of KYA to their families, to the community, to San Juan County, and the process of how the new building came to be. Each speech had something in common: if it was not for former KCHS girls basketball coach Charles Kromer, the new KYA building would not exist.
It was years ago when Kromer proposed the idea of a new KYA building. Numerous said, it couldn’t be done, but Kromer, known for his fighting spirit, didn't give up. He spoke to companies, the San Juan County board, and more. He continued to push until he was given approval. It took 8 years to get the building approved, built, and opened. "I pushed this approval plan because it brings something to the community. It's not just about sports, but it's going to make the Kirtland community a better place," explained Kromer. After all the speakers were done, lunch was provided and soon began the awards ceremony for the members that make up the KYA board. Kramer ended the ceremony by stating, "KYA will become a place, a haven for the youth, away from the bad influnces, and becoming better individuals.”
Posted: February 9, 2012
Saturday, January 21st, around 10:50 a.m representatives from, BHP Southwest Financial, San Juan County, Conoco Phillips, ORE systems, and Western Refinery cut the ribbon to a new playground for the grand opening of the new Kirtland Youth Association building. After a few pictures were taken the crowd moved towards the flag that overlooked the Riverview Golf Course. Sung by KCHS junior, Lisette Truitt, the National Anthem rang clear through the whipping wind. The United States flag was raised by Rodney and Susan Guillory.
All 12 board members lined up with scissors to cut the ribbon to the gymnasium. Each grasped hold of the yellow ribbon and with one smooth cut, the new building was officially open. Guests were welcomed in by Jessica Hamblin, Thijs Thomas, Marissa Thompson, Karl Long, Mark Frazzini, Matthew Collard, and Darien Kamae, students who work at KYA and go to KCHS. "I like it at KYA because it’s great after school work and I get to really know the kids," stated senior, Karl Long. These students from the Kirtland community represented the workers at KYA. "They do it out of the goodness in their hearts," Mr.Walker stated.
Scott Micklin began the opening ceremony by recognizing San Juan County board members, San Juan United Way Vice President and others. Guest speakers talked about the value of KYA to their families, to the community, to San Juan County, and the process of how the new building came to be. Each speech had something in common: if it was not for former KCHS girls basketball coach Charles Kromer, the new KYA building would not exist.
It was years ago when Kromer proposed the idea of a new KYA building. Numerous said, it couldn’t be done, but Kromer, known for his fighting spirit, didn't give up. He spoke to companies, the San Juan County board, and more. He continued to push until he was given approval. It took 8 years to get the building approved, built, and opened. "I pushed this approval plan because it brings something to the community. It's not just about sports, but it's going to make the Kirtland community a better place," explained Kromer. After all the speakers were done, lunch was provided and soon began the awards ceremony for the members that make up the KYA board. Kramer ended the ceremony by stating, "KYA will become a place, a haven for the youth, away from the bad influnces, and becoming better individuals.”
New Parking Policy
By: Kyler S.
Posted: February 10, 2012
At the beginning of the new school year a new parking policy was put in place. In this refined version of the parking policy the back parking lot is restricted to seniors. Any lower classmen that drive to school must park in front of the gym.
The policy hasn’t changed much. The fee is still ten dollars. The policy on towing vehicles is the same. The only difference is that the seniors have the back to themselves. The changes are not so devastating.
There have been complaints though. Paying a fee was a big problem among students, although administration offered a package deal with a permit, a t-shirt, and a season sports pass. Lower classmen also had issues seniors only able to park in back.
“There are two sides to this story,” said Mr. Walker. “The students don’t like paying fees. The lower classmen don’t like being restricted to the front. The administration is tired of the complaining too.”
Posted: February 10, 2012
At the beginning of the new school year a new parking policy was put in place. In this refined version of the parking policy the back parking lot is restricted to seniors. Any lower classmen that drive to school must park in front of the gym.
The policy hasn’t changed much. The fee is still ten dollars. The policy on towing vehicles is the same. The only difference is that the seniors have the back to themselves. The changes are not so devastating.
There have been complaints though. Paying a fee was a big problem among students, although administration offered a package deal with a permit, a t-shirt, and a season sports pass. Lower classmen also had issues seniors only able to park in back.
“There are two sides to this story,” said Mr. Walker. “The students don’t like paying fees. The lower classmen don’t like being restricted to the front. The administration is tired of the complaining too.”
Winter Formal
Photo By: Thomas B.
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Photo By: Thomas B.
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By: Thomas B.
Posted: January 27, 2012
Students gathered on Saturday for the annual KCHS Winter Formal dance. The event took place in its usual location, the cafeteria. Themed “Winter Dream,” the room was decorated with paper evergreen trees, a large white paper tree, and a white, shiny arch in the center of the floor.
The DJ played a wide variety of music, ranging from Skrillex to country ballads. People were slow dancing, fast dancing, fist pumping, and energetically jumping. There was hardly a quiet moment until Mrs. Webb announced the winners of Winter Royalty.
The nominees were:
Boys: Matthew Todacheeny, Tyler Flack, Andrew Begay, Anfernee Wood, Elias Gold, Lavin Jackson, Thomas Buoy, Matt Tracy, Skyler Manzanares, Cody Arviso, and Matt Collard.
Girls: Quinn Martinez, Kat Placencio, Taylor Billey, Shaycie Atene, Chera Jake, Kristie Hubbell, Mesha Jefferson, Myacah Sampson, Faith Tsosie, and Kalen Henderson.
Winter Royalty Prince and Princess were Lavin Jackson and Chera Jake. Winter Royalty King and Queen were Matt Tracy and Faith Tsosie. Matt had previously won the title of Homecoming King earlier in the school year. When asked how she felt about winning the title of Winter Royalty Princess, senior Chera Jake replied “It was most dope, obvi. And the dance was fun.”
Posted: January 27, 2012
Students gathered on Saturday for the annual KCHS Winter Formal dance. The event took place in its usual location, the cafeteria. Themed “Winter Dream,” the room was decorated with paper evergreen trees, a large white paper tree, and a white, shiny arch in the center of the floor.
The DJ played a wide variety of music, ranging from Skrillex to country ballads. People were slow dancing, fast dancing, fist pumping, and energetically jumping. There was hardly a quiet moment until Mrs. Webb announced the winners of Winter Royalty.
The nominees were:
Boys: Matthew Todacheeny, Tyler Flack, Andrew Begay, Anfernee Wood, Elias Gold, Lavin Jackson, Thomas Buoy, Matt Tracy, Skyler Manzanares, Cody Arviso, and Matt Collard.
Girls: Quinn Martinez, Kat Placencio, Taylor Billey, Shaycie Atene, Chera Jake, Kristie Hubbell, Mesha Jefferson, Myacah Sampson, Faith Tsosie, and Kalen Henderson.
Winter Royalty Prince and Princess were Lavin Jackson and Chera Jake. Winter Royalty King and Queen were Matt Tracy and Faith Tsosie. Matt had previously won the title of Homecoming King earlier in the school year. When asked how she felt about winning the title of Winter Royalty Princess, senior Chera Jake replied “It was most dope, obvi. And the dance was fun.”
Shave-Off for the Cause
Photos by Jessica W.
By: Chera J.
Posted: January 12, 2012
On Wednesday, October 26th during 7th hour, Timothy Wright, a math teacher at Kirtland Central High School, kept his promise and got both his beard and head shaved off by Dee John, of Dee’s Barber Shop, in the Bronco Arena.
At the beginning of the month, the student body of KCHS was challenged to raise $1,000 in exchange for Mr. Wright’s hair and beard. The fundraiser was one of numerous activities held by the high school to raise both awareness and money for breast cancer research. Other activities included Peach Fuzz, Powder Puff, and the Cupcake War. Student council members also sold pink items such as bracelets and key chains. Athletes also joined in by wearing pink socks, pink jerseys, pink gloves, and pink hair accessories.
The total amount raised was $1,600 after students paid a dollar each to witness the shearing of Mr. Wright. During the buy-out, the students also got the chance to cut a lock of Mr. Wright’s hair if they donated more money. All the money collected went to the Cathy Lincoln Memorial fund which is a San Juan County community-based, independent, non-profit organization to benefit uninsured and underinsured women with necessary cancer-related diagnostics test and treatments.
The shearing of Wright was both an epic moment and emotional event considering that many of his close family and friends, even his wife and kids, have not seen his entire face. The motivation behind Wright’s big fundraising idea comes from his mother’s survival of breast cancer. “It was a very noble thing. I’m glad to be associated with such a noble person,” Jim Belveal, a history teacher at KCHS, stated when asked about the event. The sacrifice of Mr. Wright’s hair and beard show how important breast cancer awareness is to him. “Hyrum Fuller, a student at KCHS, said, “Pink Week was a great thing this school did and we should do it again next year.”
By: Chera J.
Posted: January 12, 2012
On Wednesday, October 26th during 7th hour, Timothy Wright, a math teacher at Kirtland Central High School, kept his promise and got both his beard and head shaved off by Dee John, of Dee’s Barber Shop, in the Bronco Arena.
At the beginning of the month, the student body of KCHS was challenged to raise $1,000 in exchange for Mr. Wright’s hair and beard. The fundraiser was one of numerous activities held by the high school to raise both awareness and money for breast cancer research. Other activities included Peach Fuzz, Powder Puff, and the Cupcake War. Student council members also sold pink items such as bracelets and key chains. Athletes also joined in by wearing pink socks, pink jerseys, pink gloves, and pink hair accessories.
The total amount raised was $1,600 after students paid a dollar each to witness the shearing of Mr. Wright. During the buy-out, the students also got the chance to cut a lock of Mr. Wright’s hair if they donated more money. All the money collected went to the Cathy Lincoln Memorial fund which is a San Juan County community-based, independent, non-profit organization to benefit uninsured and underinsured women with necessary cancer-related diagnostics test and treatments.
The shearing of Wright was both an epic moment and emotional event considering that many of his close family and friends, even his wife and kids, have not seen his entire face. The motivation behind Wright’s big fundraising idea comes from his mother’s survival of breast cancer. “It was a very noble thing. I’m glad to be associated with such a noble person,” Jim Belveal, a history teacher at KCHS, stated when asked about the event. The sacrifice of Mr. Wright’s hair and beard show how important breast cancer awareness is to him. “Hyrum Fuller, a student at KCHS, said, “Pink Week was a great thing this school did and we should do it again next year.”
DYC Sponsors Evolvement Campaign
By: Megan B.
Posted: January 12, 2012
Last year, the Diné Youth Council partnered with the tobacco-free campaign Evolvement, as a way to expand is campaign to student leaders throughout New Mexico and the San Juan County. This campaign is lead by student advocates to raise awareness about their mission to reduce tobacco by educating peers, family, and community members.
The Dine Youth Council organized the annual event called Diné Protection Day. This event incorporates motivational speakers and workshops to raise awareness on key issues such as the tobacco free campaign. Along with, different organizations were allowed to set up informational booths in the lobby of the Brooks Isham Performing Arts Center. This year Evolvement sponsored a face painting booth with designs of anti-tobacco to help raise awareness.
Guests who wanted to have their face painted had to fill out an “In the Clear,” survey first. The In the Clear campaign branches from Evolvement to try to eliminate secondhand smoke in cars and homes. The survey contained questions about the common knowledge of tobacco use and tobacco products.
With the turnout at Diné Protection Day, many walked away with more knowledge about the effects of tobacco, tobacco safety, while spreading the word with face paintings.
Posted: January 12, 2012
Last year, the Diné Youth Council partnered with the tobacco-free campaign Evolvement, as a way to expand is campaign to student leaders throughout New Mexico and the San Juan County. This campaign is lead by student advocates to raise awareness about their mission to reduce tobacco by educating peers, family, and community members.
The Dine Youth Council organized the annual event called Diné Protection Day. This event incorporates motivational speakers and workshops to raise awareness on key issues such as the tobacco free campaign. Along with, different organizations were allowed to set up informational booths in the lobby of the Brooks Isham Performing Arts Center. This year Evolvement sponsored a face painting booth with designs of anti-tobacco to help raise awareness.
Guests who wanted to have their face painted had to fill out an “In the Clear,” survey first. The In the Clear campaign branches from Evolvement to try to eliminate secondhand smoke in cars and homes. The survey contained questions about the common knowledge of tobacco use and tobacco products.
With the turnout at Diné Protection Day, many walked away with more knowledge about the effects of tobacco, tobacco safety, while spreading the word with face paintings.
Intertribal Agricultural Conference
By: Megan B.
Posted: January 12, 2012
Kirtland Central High School student, Megan Badonie, senior and Leondra Begay, freshmen were selected as scholarship recipients to attend the 2011 Intertribal Agricultural Conference held in Las Vegas, Nevada. Not only did they represent the Kirtland FFA but also their individual 4-H clubs. Badonie represented the Hogback Blue Sky 4-H club and Begay represented the Hanaadli 4-H club. Both girls represented the Navajo Nation at this Native American conference, and Badonie represented the Northern Agency of the Navajo Nation as Miss Northern Navajo Teen.
The Intertribal Agriculture Council, or I.A.C, holds a national convention each year that beings in native ranchers, farmers, youth leaders, and more. Representatives from native tribes all over North America come to the annual conference to discuss agriculture on their native lands. The conference was held at the sponsor hotel, the Flamingo, on December 5-9.
The first day of the conference started right at 7 a.m. with a grand entry song led by high school powwow singers in an honor song. One representative from each tribe brought forth their nation’s flag as each tribe, the youth, and the conference attendees were honored. The conference began soon after warm words were given of welcome from the I.A.C board of directors.
Youth representatives started each day with general sessions starting at 7 a.m. and finished around 8-9 p.m., depending on the number of guest speakers per day. These sessions covered topics such as: cattle prices, land rights, tax cuts, and the importance of native food production, and native business. In the afternoon, breakout sessions began and the final general session started around 6 p.m.
The keynote speaker for the entire conference was Thomas Vilsack, Secretary of Agriculture from the Washington D.C Office of Agriculture. Youth were encouraged to arrive before Vilsack arrived. Once Vilsack took to the platform an honor song was sung on his behalf, dressed in Navajo regalia Badonie was chosen to say a short prayer and the session began. Vilsack discussed the importance of the youth to native agriculture, “for native youth life is tough, the youth need to tie back to the earth,” Vilsack stated. Vilsack spoke to youth about leadership, confidence, and taking on impossible tasks. “Accept life’s challenge and take Native American to greatness, “Vilsack said, challenging the youth to make a difference in their communities and reservations.
After the morning session was done the student representatives were pulled into their own separate conclave. In the official youth conference student representatives took notes on: college degrees, college choices, agriculture scholarships, college financial aid, and farming and ranching.; in the youth conclave Janie Hipp, Head Official in the Tribal Affairs at the USDA spoke to student representatives about the importance of agriculture, the preservation of their heritage and culture, and the importance of education. “Education will take you to places you would never have dreamed of,” Hipp expressed.
As the conference came to a close Tribal representatives, the board of directors, U.S.D.A and I.A.C officials challenged each attendee to take something back from what they learned there and help make their reservations, schools, and nations a better place. Both Badonie and Begay picked up experiences they won’t ever forget, and will take on the challenge.
Posted: January 12, 2012
Kirtland Central High School student, Megan Badonie, senior and Leondra Begay, freshmen were selected as scholarship recipients to attend the 2011 Intertribal Agricultural Conference held in Las Vegas, Nevada. Not only did they represent the Kirtland FFA but also their individual 4-H clubs. Badonie represented the Hogback Blue Sky 4-H club and Begay represented the Hanaadli 4-H club. Both girls represented the Navajo Nation at this Native American conference, and Badonie represented the Northern Agency of the Navajo Nation as Miss Northern Navajo Teen.
The Intertribal Agriculture Council, or I.A.C, holds a national convention each year that beings in native ranchers, farmers, youth leaders, and more. Representatives from native tribes all over North America come to the annual conference to discuss agriculture on their native lands. The conference was held at the sponsor hotel, the Flamingo, on December 5-9.
The first day of the conference started right at 7 a.m. with a grand entry song led by high school powwow singers in an honor song. One representative from each tribe brought forth their nation’s flag as each tribe, the youth, and the conference attendees were honored. The conference began soon after warm words were given of welcome from the I.A.C board of directors.
Youth representatives started each day with general sessions starting at 7 a.m. and finished around 8-9 p.m., depending on the number of guest speakers per day. These sessions covered topics such as: cattle prices, land rights, tax cuts, and the importance of native food production, and native business. In the afternoon, breakout sessions began and the final general session started around 6 p.m.
The keynote speaker for the entire conference was Thomas Vilsack, Secretary of Agriculture from the Washington D.C Office of Agriculture. Youth were encouraged to arrive before Vilsack arrived. Once Vilsack took to the platform an honor song was sung on his behalf, dressed in Navajo regalia Badonie was chosen to say a short prayer and the session began. Vilsack discussed the importance of the youth to native agriculture, “for native youth life is tough, the youth need to tie back to the earth,” Vilsack stated. Vilsack spoke to youth about leadership, confidence, and taking on impossible tasks. “Accept life’s challenge and take Native American to greatness, “Vilsack said, challenging the youth to make a difference in their communities and reservations.
After the morning session was done the student representatives were pulled into their own separate conclave. In the official youth conference student representatives took notes on: college degrees, college choices, agriculture scholarships, college financial aid, and farming and ranching.; in the youth conclave Janie Hipp, Head Official in the Tribal Affairs at the USDA spoke to student representatives about the importance of agriculture, the preservation of their heritage and culture, and the importance of education. “Education will take you to places you would never have dreamed of,” Hipp expressed.
As the conference came to a close Tribal representatives, the board of directors, U.S.D.A and I.A.C officials challenged each attendee to take something back from what they learned there and help make their reservations, schools, and nations a better place. Both Badonie and Begay picked up experiences they won’t ever forget, and will take on the challenge.
