Kahtnuht’ana Dena’ina
Tribal Narratives and Kenaitze News
The Kenaitze Indian Tribe is seeking public comment on its Child Care Development Fund grant plan. A virtual public meeting to discuss the plan is scheduled for July 22 at 3 p.m.
To access the meeting via Zoom, go to https://bit.ly/CCDF2026. The meeting ID is 859 3904 0992 and the passcode is f9w7zs.
Comments may be submitted by email to kpitsch@kenaitze.org, or in person at 130 North Willow Street, Kenai. The comment period closes July 31. A copy of the plan is available upon request.
Kenaitze Administration • (907) 335-7200
Dena'ina Wellness Center • (907) 335-7500
Education and College and Career Support • (907) 335-7667
Tyotkas Elder Services • (907) 335-7280
Na’ini Family and Social Services • (907) 335-7600
Kenaitze Tribal Court • (907) 335-7219
Carrie provides personal training sessions and fitness consultations in the Wellness gym at the Dena’ina Wellness Center. She leads group fitness classes with a focus on improving function, strength, stamina and balance.
Suzanne J. Jackson was sworn in as a Qiz’unch’ Tribal Court Judge in July 2025.
Judge Jackson became interested in serving on the Court because she wanted to be more involved with her Tribe. She has a desire to serve the community and give back. She was also inspired by her mother, Rita Smagge, who served as a Tribal Court Judge.
Judge Jackson has also served on the Tribe’s Elders committee.
Judge Jackson strives to administer justice in a compassionate way that strengthens our community. She is a team player and works to collaborate with all involved to come to a sound decision. She understands that each decision deeply affects people’s lives and is committed to doing what is just and fair.
Krista Holloway was sworn in as a Qiz’unch’ Tribal Court Judge in September 2025.
Dr. Larsen provides comprehensive eye exams for un’ina of all ages. His services include eyewear prescriptions and contact lens fittings, with experience in specialty and RGP contacts. Dr. Larsen also handles medical visits from diabetic high-risk exams to foreign body removal.
Dr. Larsen earned his doctorate in Optometry at the University of Houston and a bachelor’s degree in Biology from Brigham Young University. He is certified by the American Board of Optometry and has been practicing primarily in private practice settings since 1998.
Dr. Larsen started wearing glasses at age 4, leading to his interest in eye care. He finds it rewarding to use his skills to help people see their world better. He appreciates the opportunity to help in diagnosing and preventing systemic health conditions.
Dr. Larsen and his wife have six children and two grandchildren. When he’s not serving un’ina, he enjoys photography, riding motorcycles, road and mountain biking, hiking, and video games.
Gary Corder was sworn in as a Qiz’unch’ Tribal Court Judge in May 2025.
Alyssa provides integrated assessments, crisis intervention and psychotherapy sessions to un’ina. She is grateful for the opportunity to make a positive change in her community. She finds it rewarding to build trust and meaningful connections with people seeking support.
Alyssa has a master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling and a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice with a minor in psychology. Prior to her work in mental health counseling, Alyssa worked as a chemical dependency counselor providing services to un’ina seeking recovery from substance abuse.
A passion for social justice and advocacy inspired Alyssa to pursue a career in behavioral health. Alyssa’s approach to counseling is rooted in person-centered care, social justice and empowerment. Alyssa is a Kenaitze Tribal Member and is honored to be able to work with Alaska Native and American Indian people and to give back to her community.
When not serving un’ina, Alyssa enjoys reading, gardening, ice skating, traveling and spending quality time with friends and family.
Russell J. Wilson was sworn in as a Qiz’unch Tribal Court Judge in September 2018.
