Can you believe it? Its the last quarter of 2012 and just think 2013 is just over the horizon. However, before all the holiday madness starts up, there's some electing to come this November 6. Of course you haven't forgot about that little task which will give us the leader of the free world. Unfortunately, I had hoped to early vote, but my damn schedule sometimes just doesn't allow for me to do some life's simple things. But as we arrive at Election Day 2012, I guess I will make my way to my near by polling station to cast my ballot. As a history buff, I'm well aware of the price that so many paid as well as those who bled and died for me to be able to freely make my political statement. Its something that we all should be proud of and certainly take note to be apart of the democratic process to elect our leaders. However, even as I fully understand this process, I've been bewildered that so many folks simply have no clue. I'm finding that many don't exactly know who their "Representative actually is and some really don't understand that even though theirs a popular vote of the people, its actually the "Electoral College" that cast the final ballots. Talk about a lack of "Civics 101!" Anyway, as all the mayhem of electing the next President of the United States rolls to an end for this cycle, I believe that before the next outing, we might need to some more educating on just how all this works and why. Go vote and make it count!
This year’s theme, “Native Families Moving Ahead: Together We Strengthen Our Nations,” speaks to the importance of continuing on the path to a healthier future for all American families.
I had the opportunity this summer to see this theme in action in South Dakota, as I toured the new Indian Health Service (IHS) Cheyenne River Health Center, which along with enhanced medical services includes a Spiritual Room where patients and families can practice their traditions.
We are committed to ensuring the health and well-being of all Americans, which is why we are working to reduce the health disparities that have burdened American Indians and Alaska Natives. Historically, for example, American Indians and Alaska Natives have been more likely to die from diabetes than other racial and ethnic groups.
The Affordable Care Act includes the permanent authorization of the Indian Health Care Improvement Act, which makes it possible for IHS to update and expand health care services. An IHS report to Congress this year showed how the Special Diabetes Program for Indians has done a tremendous job of fighting this disease by increasing preventive services and access to treatment in Tribal communities.
The Affordable Care Act also helps all Americans by requiring insurers to allow young adults to stay on their parents’ health plans and requiring coverage with no out-of-pocket costs for certain preventive services. In 2014, there will be more affordable options for insurance coverage through new health insurance exchanges, or marketplaces.
Health care is just one area in which we are working to increase support for Indian Country. The Administration for Children and Families is working with the Native American Fatherhood and Families Association on a national campaign to promote the importance of fatherhood in Tribal communities. We’re also investing in Head Start and child care programs, innovative substance abuse and mental health initiatives, suicide prevention efforts, job training, and economic development campaigns.
Please join me in celebrating National Native American Heritage Month and bolstering our commitment to ensuring that all American Indian and Alaska Native people have the opportunity for a stronger and healthier future.( photo: fine art america collection)
CAR/DYSC Needs a Van!
Tobacco Funding Announced
Statement from HHS Secretary Kathleen Sebelius on National Native American Heritage Month
Each November we celebrate National Native American Heritage Month – the history, culture, and character of American Indian and Alaska Native people.
This year’s theme, “Native Families Moving Ahead: Together We Strengthen Our Nations,” speaks to the importance of continuing on the path to a healthier future for all American families.I had the opportunity this summer to see this theme in action in South Dakota, as I toured the new Indian Health Service (IHS) Cheyenne River Health Center, which along with enhanced medical services includes a Spiritual Room where patients and families can practice their traditions.
We are committed to ensuring the health and well-being of all Americans, which is why we are working to reduce the health disparities that have burdened American Indians and Alaska Natives. Historically, for example, American Indians and Alaska Natives have been more likely to die from diabetes than other racial and ethnic groups.
The Affordable Care Act includes the permanent authorization of the Indian Health Care Improvement Act, which makes it possible for IHS to update and expand health care services. An IHS report to Congress this year showed how the Special Diabetes Program for Indians has done a tremendous job of fighting this disease by increasing preventive services and access to treatment in Tribal communities.
The Affordable Care Act also helps all Americans by requiring insurers to allow young adults to stay on their parents’ health plans and requiring coverage with no out-of-pocket costs for certain preventive services. In 2014, there will be more affordable options for insurance coverage through new health insurance exchanges, or marketplaces.
Health care is just one area in which we are working to increase support for Indian Country. The Administration for Children and Families is working with the Native American Fatherhood and Families Association on a national campaign to promote the importance of fatherhood in Tribal communities. We’re also investing in Head Start and child care programs, innovative substance abuse and mental health initiatives, suicide prevention efforts, job training, and economic development campaigns.
Please join me in celebrating National Native American Heritage Month and bolstering our commitment to ensuring that all American Indian and Alaska Native people have the opportunity for a stronger and healthier future.( photo: fine art america collection)
CAR/DYSC Needs a Van!
Due to the steady increase of our efforts across the state as well as the
increase in youth participating in DYSC every week, we have come to truly
realize that we need a van. Having a dedicated van for our organization would
mean that we can continue to have constant support for our extensions in
Jonesboro, Conway, Fort Smith, and wherever else they grow. Having a van would
also mean that we could transport the many youth who have expressed their desire
to be a part of DYSC but do not have the necessary transportation. Talk about a NICE tax write off!!
If you are interested, or know a way to help, please contact us at:
(501)244-9690 or email us at artchangesu@yahoo.com
Tobacco Funding Announced
The Arkansas Tobacco Prevention and Cessation Program
recently announced two Request for Applications (RFAs) to select organizations
that will carry out local tobacco prevention and education programs in their
communities. One will focus on community-based programs and the other on
programs targeted to youth in kindergarten through college. For more
information on these RFAs click http://www.healthy.arkansas.gov/aboutADH/Pages/GrantBidOpportunities.aspx
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