14th Annual Taking A Stand Against Elder Abuse Conference underway
Participants at the 14th Annual Taking A Stand Against Elder Abuse Conference on Wednesday, May 13.
By LIZZIE BOYD
Sho-Ban News
FORT HALL — The Shoshone-Bannock Tribes Adult Protection Services program is hosting the 14th Annual Taking a Stand Against Elder Abuse Conference May 13 and 14, at the Shoshone-Bannock Casino Hotel.
It features numerous presenters and events throughout the conference. There are over 330 pre registrants, not including those who register at the door including 43 tribes in attendance.
FHBC Chairwoman Donna Thompson speaks.
Robert “Bob” Johnson is the event emcee. He opened the event, welcomed everyone and encouraged them to have a good time. Nelson Racehorse and Burdett Osborne sang the flag song as the Shoshone-Bannock Casino Hotel Flag detail team brought in the flags while
Anthony “Pete” Broncho gave the opening prayer.
Donna Thompson, Fort Hall Business Council Chairwoman welcomed everyone and said, “I would like to acknowledge the many partners who are here today, from the Tribal departments and state agencies, law enforcement, health professionals’, advocates and community members. I encourage you to listen and take back what would benefit your community.”
Taking A Stand Against Elder Abuse Conference banner and awards at the event.
Miss Sho-Ban Myke Moore did an introduction and welcomed all participants to the event.
Adult Protection Services' Marcia Hall, event organizer, said, “By hosting this conference, we hope to educate people about elder abuse and reporting, and over the years they have started to trust us.” “We want to network and get the message out there, and make at least ten new contacts.”
Marcia Hall
Hall thanked the presenters, and mentioned a few topics that will be discussed, “animal hoarding, homelessness.”
There will be elder awards presented during the lunch hour. She thanked local business Native Flair for the awards that were created. Wednesday evening there was an elder fashion show. She also thanked Jared Mangum who reached out to Lava Hot Springs and got 100 tickets donated for the elders that signed up to soak at Lava Hot Springs.
