# FROM THE OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR (2013)

> Briefs, arguments, decisions, and more.

URL: https://www.frixlaw.com/law-library/documents/tribal%3Apueblo_isleta%3A016deddacda73fa6

## Record

- **Collection:** Tribal code
- **Document type:** Tribal code

## Text

Isleta Pueblo News

Volume 8 Issue 11

FROM THE OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR
New Mexico Architectural Foundation
Tour

October 5, 2013, Ms. Shawna Ballay, Director
of the Pueblo of Isleta Public Services
Department, helped coordinate a tour for
the New Mexico Architectural Foundation
(NMAF) of architectural projects on the
Isleta Pueblo. The featured sites for the
tour included the Headstart Building, St.
Augustine Church, CCD Building, Elderly
Center & Assisted Living Facility and the
Old Elementary School.
The New Mexico Architectural Foundation
promotes architectural excellence in New
Mexico by stimulating public understanding
and appreciation of architecture and our
architectural traditions. The Foundation
participants applauded the Pueblo of Isleta
for their creativity and personal obligation
to promote and preserve cultural activities
and artifacts for all to enjoy.
New Mexico Indian Council on Aging,
Inc.
On October 9, 2013, the Pueblo of Isleta,
Isleta Casino and Resort hosted the
Quarterly Meeting of the New Mexico
Indian Council on Aging (NMICOA).
Governor Eddie P. Torres opened the
conference with an opening traditional
prayer and welcome to all attendees. In
addition to NMICOA Board business, the
following presenters provided information
on Aging and Long Term Services by Gino
Rinaldi, Cabinet Secretary, Creating a
Will by Vern Teller, Isleta Tribal Council
Secretary, Cultural Affairs Department
presentation by Valentino Jaramillo,
Pueblo of Isleta Cultural Affairs Director,
Evolution of Traditional Native Dress/
Show by Rita Jojola, Isleta Elder Center
Director, Status Report of Health Grant by
Erick Lujan, Health Board Representative
and POI Language Program Presentation
by Paul Lujan, Program Coordinator. The
meeting serves as an excellent venue for the
elderly to interact and stay informed about
essential services available to them.
Elderly and Assisted Living Center:
Ground Breaking Ceremony
October 16, 2013, the Pueblo of Isleta
commemorated the ground breaking
ceremony for our new Elderly and Assisted
Living Center. The event was attended by
community members, NM State Senators
and Representatives, and Isleta Tribal
Council members. The agenda for the event
included a traditional prayer offered by
Mr. Joe D. Lucero with a welcome by 1st
Lieutenant Antonio Chewiwi. A project
overview was provided by Ms. Shawna
Ballay, POI Public Service Department,
with an overview of services by Ms. Rita
Jojola, Elderly Care Director and Ms.
Natalie Abeita, Assisted Living Center,
Administrator.

As expressed by the Planning Committee,
of all the construction projects the tribe
has undertaken, building the Assisted
Living Facility is probably the one project
that gives our community a heartwarming
feeling. This new venture will provide
an opportunity for all of our elders living
in long-term care facilities outside our
community to return home to Isleta. The
opportunity to care for our elders, giving
to them love, tenderness and respect which
they deserve is the primary goal.
Construction of the Center is scheduled
to commence in November 2013, and
completed within one year.
NM 314 and NM 45 Improvement
Project
October 17, 2013, Pueblo of Isleta
Public Service Department held a public
meeting at the Isleta Elderly Center to
provide information and to solicit public
comments on the proposed realignment and
reconstruction of 314/NM 45 Intersection.
The Pueblo of Isleta, in coordination
with the New Mexico Department of
Transportation (NMDOT), is planning a
highway project to correct safety lanes
and improve transportation along an
approximate one mile stretch of roadway
beginning at NM 314 at the north end of
the BNSF Railroad Overpass and extending
north to approximately milepost 0.7 NM
45. The proposed project will include
the realignment and reconstruction of
the 314/NM 45 intersection; geometric
improvements north and south along project
points and at NM 317, Tribal road 74 and
the future Moonlight Dr. intersection and
an access modification to adjacent business/
residences; drainage improvements and
miscellaneous safety improvements.
The initial public meeting was well attended
by approximately 50 concerned residents.
Governor Eddie P. Torres encouraged all
participants to express their concerns
emphasizing this project which is for the
betterment of our community.
2013 POI Social Services & Indian Child
Welfare (ICWA) Program Review
The bureau of Indian Affairs, Southern
Pueblos Agency completed the Isleta
Social Services and Indian Child Welfare
Act (ICWA) program reviews for Calendar
Year 2013. The ICWA Program Review
was conducted on July 30, 2013 and the
Social Services Program Review was
conducted on September 17-18, 2013. The
purpose of program reviews is to assess
both the administrative and direct service
operations of the program. The goal of the
reviews are to identify both consistencies
and inconsistencies of program operation,
i.e., regulatory and statutory compliance
issues, as well as day to day program

November 2013

operations, to determine opportunities for
technical assistance and policy guidance
between the Southern Pueblos Agency and
the tribal program, to identify and share
best practices with other programs with the
intent of improving the quality of services
to Indian tribes and Indian people.
Entrance and exit meetings took place
for both reviews at the onset and at the
conclusion of the reviews. The Pueblo
of Isleta is pleased to report that both
programs received excellent ratings with no
federal review finding errors or compliance
issues. The Isleta Social Services and ICWA
staff were commended by the Southern
Pueblos Agency for their dedication,
commitment and level of professionalism
that is demonstrated in all aspects of
their work with individuals, families,
organizations and community. The staff
were also commended for their excellent
work with regard to case management,
client file organization, and the utilization
of best and promising practices as well as
ongoing client contact and coordination,
and collaboration with other partners in
the field of Child and Family Welfare.
The Pueblo of Isleta is very pleased with
the outcome of both program reviews. The
staff of Isleta Social Services and ICWA
Programs are to be commended for their
continued commitment to the community
and the services that are provided to the
most vulnerable of our community: the
children, elders and our families.
Third Annual Washington, DC Policy
Conference
September 17-20, 2013, Governor Eddie
Paul Torres and Tribal Council President
Michael A. Lente traveled to Washington DC
to meet with congressional representatives
regarding water resource management to
water scarcity. The theme of the meeting
was on the Pueblo’s water crisis and needed
coordinated actions to protect our supply
of irrigation water currently and into the
future. Part of the strategy is to participate
in water management and water planning
through the state engineer’s process in
protesting water release of prior and
paramount water during non-irrigation
months. Governor Torres reemphasized in
his meeting that the Pueblo’s relationship
to the water and the river is an integral
part of our identity and culture.
National Congress of American Indian
(NCAI) 70th Annual Convention
October 14-17, 2013, 2nd Lieutenant
Governor Isidor Abeita attended NCAI 70th
Annual Convention in Tulsa, Oklahoma
representing the Pueblo of Isleta. The
Pueblo of Isleta, as a voting member of
NCAI, elected a new Executive Committee.
The Executive Committee is charged with

( continued next page )

advancing the mission of NCAI to protect and
advance tribal sovereignty by representing
the issues and priorities of tribal nations
throughout the country. The newly elected
Executive Committee consists of:
•

President: Brian Cladoosby,
Chairman, Swinomish Indian
Tribal Community
• Recording Secretary: Michael
Finley, Chairman, Colville Tribe
• Recording
• Secretary: Robert Shepard,
Sisseton Wahpeton Oyate
• Treasurer: Dennis Welsh Jr,
Tribal Council Member,
Colorado River Indian Tribes.
The NCAI agenda included:
• Economic, Finance, and Community
Development
• National American Indian Housing
• Technology & Telecommunications
• Transportation & Infrastructure
• Human Resources
• Education
• Elders & Disabilities
• Health
• Indian Child and Family Welfare
• Land & Natural Resources
• Energy & Mineral Policy
• Environmental Protection and
Land Use
• Trust Lands, Natural Resources, &
Agriculture
• Litigation & Governance
• Human, Religious & Culture
• Jurisdiction & Tribal Governance
• Taxation
• Tribal Gaming

•

Veterans Issues

2013 White House Tribal Nations
Conference, Washington, D.C.
Governor Eddie Paul Torres received an
invitation on behalf of President Obama
and the White House Council on Native
American Affairs to participate in the 2013
White House Tribal Nations Conference in
Washington, D.C., on Wednesday, November
13, 2013. The Pueblo of Isleta is among the
566 federally recognized tribes who will
be attending the conference which will be
held at the Department of Interior, Sidney
R. Yates Auditorium. President Obama is
expected to deliver remarks and interact
with tribal leaders to further strengthen
the government to government relationship
between federally recognized tribes and the
Obama Administration.
Governor Torres will be prepared to discuss
policy/issues on community and culture,
economic development and commerce,
education, health & and human services,
land & natural resources and tribal
governance.
2013 Albuquerque First Top CEO
Honorees
On October 17, 2013, in Albuquerque,
the Albuquerque Business First held a
Networking Reception and Awards luncheon
at the Crown Plaza to honor twenty-two
of New Mexico’s top local executives. We
are proud to announce that our very own
PAMELA GALLEGOS, CEO, Isleta Resort

November 2013

Isleta Pueblo News

Page 2

& Casino was honored and recognized for
her contributions as Chief Executive Officer
to tribal businesses within the New Mexico
Community. The prestige award goes
to those who have done an outstanding
job in their roles as corporate executive
stewards and are evaluated on professional
achievement, leadership and community
involvement. Congratulations! To Ms.
Pamela Gallegos for a job well done.
Pueblo of Isleta Community Meeting
Governor Eddie Paul Torres has scheduled
a Community Meeting at the Isleta Resort
& Casino-Ballroom for November 23, 2013,
9:00 am to noon. The agenda for the meeting
will include the following topics and issues:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•

Update on Isleta Resort and Casino
transition — Pamela Gallegos, CEO
Project Initiatives for 2014 —
Governor Eddie Paul Torres
Community development projects
update — Shawna Ballay
Affordable Care Act Facts — David
Antle, CEO Health Center
Assisted Living Services — Natalie
Abeita
UNMH Native American Health
Services — Brandon Smith, Health
Liaison
Tribal Court Process — Lawrence
Lucero, Chief Judge
Law Enforcement Crime Report —

•
•

Kevin Mariano, Chief of Police
Update on Tribal Constitution
reform- Tribal Council Constitution
Committee
Update on enacted Tribal Laws/
Ordinances- Tribal Council Law &
Order Committee

Pueblo of Isleta Turkey Distribution
Governor Eddie Paul Torres has scheduled
November 12 &13, 2013, 8:00 am to 6:00 pm
for Thanksgiving Turkey Distribution at the
Isleta Elderly Center. The distribution will
be made to enrolled Isleta Tribal members
residing in Isleta Pueblo, Los Lunas, Belen,
Bosque Farms, Albuquerque, Rio Rancho
and Bernalillo. Please provide proof of
Isleta tribal membership. Distribution will
be restricted to one turkey per household.
Thank you for your cooperation. I wish you
a caring and sharing thanksgiving.
Message from Governor
Eddie Paul Torres
As we give thanks as a Community, let us
all pray to our Great Spirits, our Heavenly
Father, and give heartfelt thanks for all
the blessings of Life they’ve bestowed upon
us. For the beauty of Mother Earth, for
the joy and health, friends and family we
graciously share. I pray for a joyous and
safe Thanksgiving to all.

November 2013

PREVENT
FROZEN PIPES
The winter months mean freezing outdoor
temperatures which can cause water lines
to freeze. Frozen pipes can burst and cause
extensive water damage. An eighth-inch (three
millimeter) crack in a pipe can emit up to 250
gallons (946 liters) of water a day. Both plastic
(PVC) and copper pipes can burst. By taking a
few simple precautions, you can save yourself
the mess, money and aggravation frozen pipes
cause.
Before the cold hits
Insulate pipes in your home's crawl spaces,
garage, unfinished basement and attic. These
exposed pipes are most susceptible to freezing.
Remember - the more insulation you use, the
better protected your pipes will be.
Disconnect garden hoses and insulate all
outdoor faucets (hose bibs). This reduces the
chance of freezing in the short span of pipe
just inside the house.
Heat tape or thermostatically-controlled heat
cables can be used to wrap pipes. Be sure
to use products approved only for the use
intended (exterior or interior). Closely follow
all manufacturers' installation and operation
instructions.
Seal leaks that allow cold air inside near where
pipes are located. Look for air leaks around
electrical wiring, dryer vents and pipes. Use
caulk or insulation to keep the cold out and
the heat in. With severe cold, even a tiny
opening can let in enough cold air to cause a
pipe to freeze.
When the temperature drops
A trickle of hot and cold water might be all
it takes to keep your pipes from freezing. Let
warm water drip overnight, preferably from a
faucet on an outside wall.
Open cabinet doors to allow heat to get to uninsulated pipes under sinks and appliances
near exterior walls.
Before you go away
Set the thermostat in your house no lower than
55°F (12°C).
Ask a friend or neighbor to check your house
daily to make sure it’s warm enough to prevent
freezing or shut off and drain the water
system.
Be aware that if you have a fire protection
sprinkler system in your house, it will be
deactivated when you shut off the water.
If your pipes freeze
Don’t take chances. If you turn on your faucets
and nothing comes out, leave a faucet turned on
for water to drain from, and so you can see when
the water starts to flow again.
If you have any further questions or
concerns, please contact the Public
Services/Utility division @ 869-9782. After
hour emergencies, please call 505-869-3030.

Isleta Pueblo News

Page 3

PUEBLO OF ISLETA DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION
We are looking for Isleta Tribal Members to serve on the Pueblo of Isleta Board of
Education. Please submit a letter of interest to Beverly L. Piro at the Department
of Education. If you prefer you may email your letter of interest to poi08101@
isletapueblo.com. For more information, please contact Beverly at 869-9790.
Tentative scheduled meetings for the DOE Board of Education will be as follows:
November 13, 2013
December 11, 2013
January 08, 2014
The meetings will start at 6:00pm at the Tribal Complex conference room.

Language Program
On August 30, 2013 the
Department of Education along
with Governor Torres met with
Bureau of Indian Education
(BIE) to sign a Memorandum of
Agreement allowing the Isleta
tribal Language Program access
to the Isleta Elementary School.
The Language Program will
take over the school’s bilingual
program for Tiwa Language
lessons.

Signing of the Memorandum of Agreement

This is a great accomplishment. This process has been a long and vigorous and
took 7 years to complete. We at the Language Program are excited and work with
our children as we attempt to have our children engage in the Isleta language.
Building update: Our portable buildings that were once located at the Old
Elementary School are now located between the Library Education Complex and
the Isleta Elementary School. Buildings are currently 70% complete. The buildings
need electrical power, computer and phone, and some minor repairs and they
will be ready for occupancy. Once buildings are complete we will continue with
community based services and afterschool programs.

Irrigation Water Outlook for the Remainder
of the 2013 Irrigation Season
The record breaking rains during the month of September were a blessing for the
Pueblo of Isleta. The irrigation system was full and the farmlands were saturated.
Several of the northern Pueblos suffered extensive damage to their irrigation
infrastructure and some were without water for three weeks while repairs were
implemented. The rain event of September 13 formed a sediment plug at Peralta
Arroyo on Cochiti Pueblo that completely blocked the Rio Grande! A temporary
channel was constructed through the plug by the Bureau of Reclamation the second
week of October and stormwater stored in Cochiti Reservoir was released in late
October resulting in higher than normal flows through the Isleta reach of the Rio
Grande.
Irrigation deliveries to the Six Middle Rio Grande Pueblos including Isleta will be
available through November 15, 2013. There have been no releases of Prior and
Paramount water from El Vado reservoir since late July. As of October 3, there was
12,700 ac/ft. of P&P water left in storage in El Vado Reservoir. This water will be
released to Elephant Butte Reservoir beginning November 16, 2013.
Water deliveries to the Acequia Madre and Butte Lateral have been fairly consistent
and there have been no shortages experienced by Isleta farmers on this canal. The
water to charge these canals is diverted at the Angostura Diversion Dam near
Algodones and then flows through the north and south valleys of Albuquerque
before entering Isleta on the north boundary.
Water deliveries to the Chical, Cacique, and Los Charcos areas will be diverted
at the Isleta Diversion dam. Irrigation deliveries to the Six Middle Rio Grande
Pueblos including Isleta will be available through November 15, 2013.
Finally, the long range weather forecast for the coming winter is for above average
temperatures and below average precipitation. This means New Mexico will remain
in moderate to severe drought conditions for the foreseeable future.

Page 4

Isleta Pueblo News
Traffic Division - Isleta Police Department - November 2013

GREETINGS! We have been absent in our publications for a few
months but we are back! We will be providing information, concerns,
and remedies for many situations encountered on the roadways of
the Pueblo. We also invite any questions, concerns, etc. that you, the
members of the Pueblo, may have about traffic situations.
We are hoping that all had a fun but safe Halloween. It is hard to
believe that we are just around the corner from the main holiday
season, starting with the Thanksgiving Holiday and then into the
Christmas season! Where does the time go?!

The Traffic Division is sponsored by the Indian Highway Safety
Program and funded through a grant. It is statistically driven which
is derived from citations issued (speed, seatbelt, childseat restraints,
to name a few), crash investigations, impaired drivers arrested,
etc. This, however, is not the only function of this division. We also
are involved in community activities presenting information to the
community at our Traffic Safety Booths. We have participated in
the "Child Abuse Awareness" activities during the month of April,
the Health Fair in early summer, among other community events.
We have also been visible at the New Mexico State Fair, the Metro
Teen Court Law Enforcement Appreciation Day and most recently
participated in the Big Brothers and Big Sisters Community
Outreach Event in Los Lunas. The Traffic Division is also active
in many of the Childseat Safety Clinics both on the Pueblo and
throughout Bernalillo and Valencia Counties. The Department
currently has three (3) active carseat technicians, two of whom are
members of the Traffic Division. The newest member of the division
will be attending a carseat technician course in the future and all
will be utilizing their skills. Not only will we be out in an effort to
detect and cite those not utilizing or incorrectly using carseats for
their young passengers, but we are in planning stages of having
presentations in the future. Adults, you too will be cited if not in
compliance with the seatbelt law — remember safety is a main
priority for this division and seatbelt safety is of great importance.
Distracted driving has been a problem for quite some time, but has
become much more evident with the introduction of the cell phone.
Initially just taking or making a phone call presented a distraction
leading to crashes. However, TEXTING is even more serious. The
following is presented by the National Highway Traffic Safety
Administration on texting.
With the U.S government pushing awareness, many U.S. states
have also followed suit and passed various laws either banning or
limiting distracted driving practices in the state. Oftentimes, the
main culprit in distracted driving incidents is driving while texting,
so that practice has received much focus from state legislators across
the country.
As of September 2013, only three states remain with no ban at all in
place regarding texting while driving. Arizona, Montana and South
Carolina each has no ban in place for texting while driving.
A total of 41 states — plus the District of Columbia — have complete
bans in place (all drivers) for texting while driving, while the
remaining six states (Missouri, Mississippi, New Mexico, Oklahoma,
South Dakota and Texas) has partial texting-while-driving bans in
place.
There is much variation between specific laws in individual states
regarding texting-while-driving and other distracted driving
practices, but it appears that the American public in general is taking
notice of the dangers of distracted driving. If and when the final three
states adopt either partial or complete bans, the entire country will be
connected in its effort to curb dangerous driving habits.

Source: CarinsurancePedia

Please remember our purpose is not solely the enforcement of traffic
laws by issuing citations but also encompasses educating the public
about traffic laws so we obtain a greater percentage of compliance.
With more drivers aware and in compliance with traffic laws, our
roadways become much safer places to travel. All it takes is one
intoxicated person, one person texting, one road rage incident, etc.
to turn someone’s life upside down. We don’t want to have to respond
to that one crash where someone is seriously injured or killed but we
have had to do this in the past and it is disheartening when we learn
the crash was preventable had the driver complied with traffic laws.

November 2013

Proactive enforcement for speed, erratic driving, impaired drivers is
imperative in prevention but education is equally important.
So we ask you, the community, to help us to make the roadways in
our community safe places on which to travel for all. Don’t become a
statistic. Additionally, if any of you have questions or concerns about
traffic laws or areas of concern, please do not hesitate to contact any
member of the Traffic Division.
Buckle Up!
Don’t Text & Drive!

REMEMBER
Don’t Drink & Drive!
Don’t Exceed the Speed Limit!

Submitted by: TSO Sharon K. Mitamura
(505) 869-9722 or (505) 382-1518
poi06056@isletapueblo.com
ONE TEXT OR CALL
COULD WRECK IT ALL
Distracted driving is a dangerous epidemic on America’s roadways.
In 2011 alone, over 3,000 people were killed in distracted driving
crashes.
The U.S. Department of Transportation is leading the effort to stop
texting and cell phone use behind the wheel. Since 2009, we have held
two national distracted driving summits, banned texting and cell phone
use for commercial drivers, encouraged states to adopt tough laws,
and launched several campaigns to raise public awareness about the
issue.
Distraction.gov is your resource for learning more about distracted
driving. Get the facts, get involved, and help us keep America’s
roadways safe.
Just three states left with no ban on texting while driving

By e-wisdom news service September 25th, 2013
Texting while driving, and more broadly distracted driving, has received
increasing attention over the past few years.
The spotlight has been on distracted driving for some time now, with the
U.S. government launching Distraction.qov back at the start of 2010 as
statistics started to pile up about the danger involved with driving while
distracted.
The statistics are astounding. For example, 10 percent of all crashes
that involved injury also involved distracted driving. And, unfortunately,
the percentages push even higher when the demographic changes to
younger drivers.
With the U.S government pushing awareness, many U.S. states have
also followed suit and passed various laws either banning or limiting
distracted driving practices in the state. Oftentimes, the main culprit in
distracted driving incidents is driving while texting, so that practice has
received much focus from state legislators across the country.
As of September 2013, only three states remain with no ban at all in
place regarding texting while driving. Arizona, Montana and South
Carolina each has no ban in place for texting while driving.

Isleta Pueblo News

November 2013

Page 5

Community Based Policing
Hello, the holidays are fast approaching and we would like to offer some safety tips. A thief will
always try to locate the easiest prey and by utilizing these tips, they tend to burglarize the homes
that are easier to enter.
To Do List:
•
Lock all outside doors and windows
before you leave the house or go to bed.
Even if it is for a short time, lock your
doors.
•
Leave lights on when you go out. If
you are going to be away for a length of
time, connect some lamps to automatic
timers to turn them on in the evening and
off during the day and ask your neighbors
to keep an eye on your home.
•
Keep your garage door closed and
locked.
•
Don't allow daily deliveries of mail,
newspapers or flyers build up while you
are away. Arrange with the Post Office to
hold your mail, or arrange for a friend or
neighbor to take them regularly.
•
Check your locks on doors and
windows and replace them with secure
devices as necessary.
•
Pushbutton locks on doorknobs are
easy for burglars to open. Install deadbolt
locks on all your outside doors.
•
Sliding glass doors are vulnerable.
Special locks are available for better
security.
•
Other windows may need better
locks. Check with a locksmith or hardware
store for alternatives.
Don't Tempt a Thief:
•
Lawn mowers, barbecues and
bicycles are best stored out of sight
•
Always lock your garden sheds and
garages.
•
Use curtains on garage and basement
windows.
•
Never leave notes on your door such
as "Gone shopping."
Locks...Get the Best:
•
No lock, regardless of its quality,
can be truly effective. Key-in dead bolt
locks provide minimum security. Ask a
locksmith for advice on your situation.
•
Change locks immediately if your
keys are lost or stolen.
•
When moving into a new home, have
all locks changed.
Targeting the Outside:
•
Have adequate exterior lighting. A
motion-sensitive light is recommended for
backyards.
•
Trim trees and shrubs so that
they cannot be used as hiding places for
intruders.
•
Make sure your door hinges are on
the inside.
Windows:
•
Most windows can be pinned for
security.
•
Drill a 3/16" hole on a slight downward
slant through the inside window frame

and halfway into the outside frame - place
a nail in the hole to secure the window.
Alarms:
•
An alarm system is excellent for
home security. It provides peace of mind to
homeowners, especially while on vacation.
There is a wide variety of alarm systems
on the market.
•
Make several inquiries to different
companies for the best security system
available to you.
•
If you have a home alarm system,
use it! Activate your alarm system —
Alarm systems are only useful when you
remember to activate them.
•
Many individuals have alarm
systems but do not arm them because
it is inconvenient. Many burglars know
this and will not be deterred by a window
sticker or sign indicating that the home
has an alarm system.
If Your Home Is Broken Into:
If you come home to find an unexplained
open/broken window or door:
•
Do not enter - the perpetrator may
still be inside.
•
Use a neighbor's phone to call
police.
•
Do not touch anything or clean
up until the police have inspected for
evidence.
•
Write down the license plate
numbers of any suspicious vehicles.
•
Note the descriptions of any
suspicious persons.
Other precautions you should take:
•
Never leave keys under doormats,
flowerpots, mailboxes or other "secret"
hiding places - burglars know where to
look for hidden keys.
•
Keep a detailed inventory of
your valuable possessions, including a
description of the items, date of purchase
and original value, and serial numbers,
and keep a copy in a safe place away
from home — this is a good precaution
in case of fires or other disasters. Make a
photographic or video record of valuable
objects, heirlooms and antiques. Your
insurance company can provide assistance
in making and keeping your inventory.
•
Trim your shrubbery around your
home to reduce cover for burglars. Be a
good neighbor. If you notice anything
suspicious in your neighborhood, call
9-1-1 immediately.
•
Mark your valuables with your
driver’s license number with an engraver
you can borrow from your precinct.
Marked items are harder for a burglar to
dispose of and easier for police to recover.
•
Form a Neighborhood Watch Group.
We can help you work with your neighbors
to improve security and reduce risk of

burglary.
•
Consider installing a burglar alarm
system.
Burglaries increase during the holidays
because burglars believe new items may be
under the tree and these items are easier to
sell. If you see something out of the ordinary,
Do Not Hesitate to call police. We are here
to help make the community a safer place
to call home, but we have to work as a team
(Community & Police.)
We are also working diligently with the
courts and roads in accomplishing are task
of addressing the residences that have no
markings. This is occurring on Fridays
and the courts have assigned community
service workers to assist with this task. We
are going to try and complete this task by
year end.
There will be a community meeting held on
Thursday, November 21, 2013, from 5:307:00 p.m. at the Old Court House in the
village. I would like to invite everyone to
attend and provide us with your ideas and
concerns affecting the community. Social
Services will conduct a brief presentation
on Domestic Violence and how the
community can help combat this problem.
Come out and join us to express your ideas
and concerns, “Together, we can make
this community a safer place to call
home.”
In closing, we have received a rise in calls
regarding the “Anonymous Hotline.”
Remember, this is your hotline to remain
anonymous and report any gang, drug,
vandalism, or illegal activity. The telephone
number is 505-264-7258, this number
should not be used if police are needed
immediately. When a person calls to report
the activity, leave as much information
so we can investigate the activity. I can
promise you that no information of the
reporting person will be dissimenated.
If there are any suggestions, feel free to
contact me at 505-869-9707.
Respectfully,
Gerald S. Maestas/Captain
Isleta Police Department

Isleta Pueblo
News

Editor: Ulysses Abeita
Asst. Editor: Beverly Piro
Published By:
Valencia Express

Page 6

Isleta Pueblo News

November 2013

IMPORTANT information from Solid Waste:
Your household thermostats

As temperatures drop and winter comes near, the time to service
your heaters is here. Many times thermostats are replaced when
performing winter service. If your thermostat is being replaced,
please, do NOT throw it in the trash!
Most thermostats manufactured before 2005 contain mercury.
Mercury is an extremely toxic heavy metal. Even though it is a
metal, in household thermostats, mercury is liquid. Mercury is
one of the most toxic and environmentally damaging elements we
encounter in day-to-day use. Disposal of mercury is regulated by
Federal, State, and Local government because it can cause serious
damage to human health and the environment.
When thrown into the garbage, the mercury in thermostats can
leach into the soil and contaminate community water sources,
including the groundwater we depend on for our drinking water.
Thermostats and other products that contain mercury are
categorized as hazardous waste. In many states, it is illegal to
throw away a mercury thermostat.
Are there other products in my home that may contain
mercury? YES!
Thermometers, fluorescent light tubes, and even the new spiral
type fluorescent lights known as CFLs contain mercury.
Here is some additional information about mercury.
If you break a mercury thermometer, thermostat, or fluorescent
bulb, here are some precautions you need to be aware of and steps
to follow as you need to be a lot more careful cleaning up after
a breakage at home or elsewhere where there has been a small
mercury release or spill.
• Don't vacuum up the spill or breakage. This will release
mercury into the air and greatly increase the level of
contamination.
• Don't sweep up the mercury or broken glass with a broom.
This breaks up the mercury into smaller drops, increasing its
surface area so that more mercury gets into the air or becomes
spread around.
• Don't pour mercury down the drain. It can clog your
plumbing and seriously pollute your septic system or the sewer
system into which your plumbing drains.

• Don't wash mercury-contaminated clothing. This
contaminates your washing machine, all of the other clothes in
the load, and the water that is washed down the drain. If you
use a clothes dryer afterwards you would be releasing mercury
into the air and essentially poisoning yourself.
• Don't do anything that would spread the mercury or cause
it to become airborne.
• Don't track it around on your shoes, and
• Never ever re-use any cloth or sponge that came into contact
with the mercury.
Now that you have an idea of what to avoid, here are some steps
to take: Fluorescent bulbs and compact fluorescent bulbs or CFLs
contain small amounts of mercury. Here's what to do if you break
a bulb:
1. Clear the room of people, especially children, and pets. Do
not allow children to help you clean up.
2. Shut off the heater or air conditioner, if applicable. Open a
window and allow the room to air out at least 15 minutes.
3. Wearing protective gloves on both hands (such as latex or
rubber), use a sheet of paper or cardboard to scoop up glass
fragments and metal pieces. Deposit the breakage into a glass
jar with a lid or into a sealable plastic bag.
4. Use sticky tape to pick up the smaller pieces of debris. Drop
the used tape into the jar or bag.
5. While paper and tape should be sufficient to clean up
breakage on a hard surface, you might need to vacuum a carpet
or rug. Vacuum only after all visible remains have been cleaned
up and then label the bag with "Danger — Mercury inside".
Please place all items including the gloves in the sealed bag.
Call the Solid Waste division of Pubic Services to schedule pick
up at 869-9782.
6. If your vacuum has a canister, wipe it clean with damp
paper towels and dispose of the used towels.
7. Remember, do not throw any mercury contaminated items
in your trash containers.
REFERENCE: Anne Marie Helmenstine, Ph.D
About.com Chemistry

November 2013

Isleta Pueblo News

Isleta Elder Center - Activities Calendar
November, 2013
November 1:

Shuffleboard @ Recreation Center - 9 am - 12 noon

November 4:

Bowling - Fun Connection - 10 am - 12 noon

November 5:

Line Dancing - Elder Center - 10 am - 11:30 am

November 6:

Bingo @ Hard Rock

November 7:

Country Western Dance Instruction - 10 am - 11:30 am

November 7:

Catholic Mass - 11:30 am

November 8:

Shuffleboard @ Recreation Center - 9 am - 12 noon

November 8:

Wal-Mart (Shopping Asst. /Lunch) -10 am - 2 pm

November 11:

Center Closed - Veteran's Day Holiday

November 12-13: Turkey Distribution - Elder Center - 8 am - 6 pm
November 14:

Breakfast at Barelas Coffee House, S. Broadway
Cultural Center (Dia de los Muertos Exhibit) - 9 am-2pm

November 14:

Country Western Dance Instruction - 10 am - 11:30 am

November 15:

Shuffleboard @ Recreation Center - 9 am - 12 noon

November 17:

Arts & Crafts Fair - Isleta Resort & Casino - 9 am - 4 pm

November 18:

Bowling - Fun Connection - 10 am - 12 noon

November 19:

Line Dancing - Elder Center - 10 am - 11:30 am

November 19:

Shuffleboard @ Manzano Mesa /Lunch-10:30am-4:30pm

November 20:

Friendship Breakfast -Elder Center - 9 am - 9:30 am

November 20:

General Meeting - Elder Center - 10 am - 12 noon
•

POI - Planning Dept. - Transportation

•

POI - Behavioral Health - Program/Events

•

Back by Request- Health Reform Fair/Centennial
Care Presentations (questions/answer session).
Prizes, Health record filing tips & file box
for everyone, goodies...

November 21:

Santa Ana Casino "Play Day" - 9 am - 2 pm

November 21:

Country Western Dance Instruction - 10 am - 11:30 am

November 22:

Shuffleboard @ Recreation Center - 9 am - 12 noon

November 22:

Thanksgiving Dinner & Bingo - 12 noon - 3 pm

November 25:

Bowling - Fun Connection - 10 am - 12 noon

November 25:

Advisory Committee Meeting - 10 am - 12 noon (Open to
the Public)

November 26:

Line Dancing -Elder Center - 10 am - 11:30 am

November 28-29: Center Closed - Happy Thanksgiving!
Other Important Meeting Dates - Events are not
affiliated with the POI Elder Center
November 16: 2nd Annual Isleta Cancer Education Conference, Isleta

Eagle Golf Course
November 16: POI Behavior Health - Moccasin Fun Run/Walk
November 19-20: 3rd Annual Caregivers Conference; Pueblo of Jemez

Senior Center
November 20: Healthy Aging Collaborative Fall Symposium — Dept. of

Health Topic: Alzheimer Disease and Related Health Care

Issues
November 23: POI Community Meeting — Isleta Resort & Casino — 9 am

The Isleta Elder Center by Request will hold
another Centennial Care / Health Care Reform
Event: November 20, 2013 10 am
We held a Fair on October 23rd and unfortunately not all confirmed health
vendors were able to attend. For that reason, many attendees did not get to
ask questions related to their individual needs. Therefore, we are holding
another event on November 20th. If you have questions about health care
change, please come to this event. We will be providing a "Health Record
Keeping Filing Box," and other goodies.

Page 7

Thank You from the family of
Eulalia J. Zuni

We, the family of
Eulalia J. Zuni, would
like to express our
heartfelt thankfulness
and gratitude to the
Elderly Center Staff,
Isleta Health Clinic
Staff, Dr. Nelson, CHR/
EMT Staff for all your
services & assistance
that was given to our
Mother/Grandmother/
Great-Grandmother. A
Very Special "Thank You" to all of the Caregivers that
gave their "Unconditional Love & Patience" during
Chee-ee Lia's needs. We would also like to extend our
sincere appreciation to the community of Isleta, Father
George, Bernadette Cotton & Frances Abeita, The
Church Choir and Celeste Lucero for all your support,
prayers and condolences during the time of our loss.
May God bless each and every one of you and your
families. We were very blessed for her to have lived to
be 102 1/2 years old.

CONGRATULATIONS TO
FRANCES Z. ABEITA
Congratulations to
Frances Z. Abeita from
our Isleta St. Augustine
Parish. She is one of
the recipients of the St.
Francis of Assisi Awards
which are awarded to lay
volunteers who are role
models in their service to
their communities. The
award ceremony took
place on October 4th,
2013 at the St. Francis
Basilica in Santa Fe. The
persons who were selected
are from various parishes in the archdiocese of Santa Fe.
These volunteers are following the long tradition started
by past generations who give unsparingly of their time
and talents.
She was nominated by Fr. George Pavamkott O. Praem:
"Frances is one among the very devoted volunteers
of St. Augustine. She is one of our Finance Committee
members and was its Chair for many years. She is the
coordinator and counter for the collections. For more
than 10 years she has been an extraordinary Eucharistic
minister and visits the homebound along with the Pastor.
She provides special gifts to the homebound during
Thanksgiving, Christmas and Easter. She is a member
of the Bereavement Committee. She can be counted upon
for wherever the need is; she never says no. During the
Pueblo Feast days and traditional activities, Frances
opens her home to many people to share a meal, provides
fellowship and great hospitality. She is generous in finding
time for those who need help and by providing food and
financial support to them, and even helps them to find
jobs. St. Augustine Church in our community is grateful
to her. I am proud to have recommended her for the 2013
Archbishop's St. Francis of Assisi Award."

Page 8

Isleta Pueblo News

November 2013

Pueblo of Isleta Public Library
Happy Daylight Savings Time, People of the Island! How many of you used the excuse
that you forgot to change your clock back for being late to work. I bet that was an
awkward conversation because then you should have been in an hour early. Like the
Veterans say, if you are not five minutes early then you are LATE! On that note, Happy
Veterans Day and be sure to buy your local Veteran that next round of beverage.

NEWS:
On Tuesday, November 5 the Library
will be participating in a simulated
“lock down” exercise with the Isleta
Elementary. The library staff will be
expected to lock the doors, close the blinds,
shut off the lights, and usher patrons to our
designated safe room for training purposes.
After the exercise is complete, business will
return to normal for the Library. However,
the roads and parking lot may be occupied
by the Isleta Police Department while the
Elementary conducts their “lock down”
exercise. We have been informed by I.P.D.
that the exercise should start after the 9
AM hour.
Wednesday, November 6 the Library
will OPEN at 11 AM due to our monthly
staff meeting which is the first Wednesday
of each month. Please understand the
importance of these meetings as this is
when we discuss the issues brought to our
attention by you the community members,
collaborate to improve our library services,
and brainstorm with hopes of new and
innovative programs.
Thursday, November 7 the Library will
OPEN at 1 PM due to our third Fire Drill
Training with the Isleta Fire Department.
After our Fire Drill exercise, the library
staff will be undergoing Fire Extinguisher
Training. We understand that many of you
rely on the Library for your daily tasks;
however to create a safer environment for
you, your children, extended family, and
your fellow community members we need
to undergo this training. So, Thank You for
being understanding.
Monday, November 11 the Library will
be CLOSED in observance to Veterans Day.
Be sure to give Thanks to all your Veterans
as it is their day when we all should show
our appreciation for their sacrifices and
hardships which they endured.
Thursday, November 28; Friday,
November 29; & Saturday November
30 the Library will be CLOSED due to
Thanksgiving and Thanksgiving Break
(aka Black Friday and Small Business
Saturday). Many of the Library staff have
family outside the Pueblo of Isleta and
therefore this is their opportunity to spend
time with their family whom they rarely get
to visit.
UPCOMING PROGRAMS:
The Library, in collaboration with Myra
Garro (Isleta Human Resources) and
Ulysses Abeita (Adult Education), will be
conducting Resume Workshops at the
Library on November 5, 6, & 7 from 1
PM to 2:30 PM. Participants will learn
how to create a professional resume, update
resumes, save resumes, undergo a “mock

interview”, receive feedback on their “mock
interview”, given insight to theory of Job/
Career Fair, and will be escorted to two Job/
Career Fairs. The first job fair will be on
Wednesday, November 13 at the Embassy
Suites (9 AM to 12:30 PM) and the second
will be on Thursday, November 14 at Hotel
Cascada (11 AM to 2 PM). To sign up for
this program, please call the library and
speak to Tara or Diane Abeita. Space is
limited so call and reserve your spot today.
On Thursday, November 14, starting
at 4:30 PM, Emmy Award Winning
Storyteller Indiana Bones will be
gracing our Library for an evening of
stories from his many “excursions”. This is
to help us celebrate the month of November
aka “Native American Heritage Month”.
Every one of all ages is welcome to attend
this first ever storytelling event. As a bit
of advice be sure to come early so you are
not in the front seats in the path of his
bullwhip.
WIA workers Anadine and Christino will
be hosting two Thanksgiving Craft projects
for the community. These will be their first
programs which they created and will be
responsible for conducting with the general
public. Our goal is teach them skills that
will transfer over to which ever profession
they should choose in life while giving back
to the Pueblo of Isleta.
The first Thanksgiving Craft will
take place on Wednesday, November
20 at 4:30 PM and will be of a Turkey
Center Piece conducted Anadine. This
program is open to everyone but is
limited to the first thirty people or while
supplies last. Family will be given first
priority.

The second Thanksgiving Craft will
take place on Thursday, November
21 at 4:30 PM and will be of a edible
Turkey dessert conducted by Christino
H. This program is also open to everyone
but is limited to the first thirty people
or while supplies last. Family will be
given first priority.
Once again the Library will be taking a
van of students and interested adults to
Astro-Zombies Comics to select additional
graphic novels to help update our graphic
novel collection at the Library. As a sign of
gratitude for helping us update our collection,
we will purchase each participant a graphic
novel or two. The field trip to AstroZombies Comics will on Wednesday,
November 27 with the van leaving the
library at 1:30 PM. We can only fit twelve
into a van comfortably so be sure to call the
library to let us know that you would like to
take advantage of this opportunity.

RECAP:

We made an appearance at the Isleta Head
start with all our library information and
upcoming events for the new students. It
was great to see all the little smiling faces as
they showed there family their classrooms
and projects. The Head Start students were
excited to know that they can get their
own library card! So if your child is a new
student at the Head start they can come to
the library and sign up.
The Library staff has been going through
Fire Drill training and learning all there
is to know about safety and escape plans
when such unexpected events occur. All this
training is a MUST and is to the benefit of

November 2013

Isleta Pueblo News

the community, so please be patient with us
with our closures pertaining to this.

told and caught orbs floating around. It was
a great tour and hope to do this again next
year and the next year, we might just make
it an annual event! We would like to thank
the ghost tour guides of Old Town Ghost
Tour for the scary stories of true events
that happened there. And also a thank you
to those that participated on this trip and
got the full GHOST experience. And just so
everyone knows, old town is one big haunted
house with many stories to be told!

Patrons joined us as we took a creepy walk
during Old Town’s Ghost Tour special
full moon event on October 18th at 10pm.
The tour last a little after midnight. This
night was also a partial full moon eclipse,
which we did not find out until one of our
after school students informed us and
made the anticipation of the tour all that
more creepy to look forward to. We took
13 adult patrons that earned their way on
this trip by reading one of our ghost books
and writing 4 synopsis in order to secure
there spot. The tour guide led us around old
town, first mentioning that this tour is our
own risk and shared many stories of guests
being touched by spirits. Thankfully, none
of us had such an experience and only the
concern haunted us throughout the tour.
We all took pictures after each story was

Once again we participated at the Annual
Halloween Carnival held at the Recreation
Center, which was a load of fun! As you all
know the library always likes to keep our
theme for the carnival a secret and this year
we decided on Despicable Me. This movie
is a big hit at the library and always gets
checked out so we wanted to showcase it at
the Halloween Carnival. Nate was Gru and
Tara, Diane, and Dawn were minions! We

Page 9

also had Anadine as one of the characters
from Despicable Me 2 and Christino as the
carnival man as seen on the first movie.
Our game was based on the game featured
on Despicable Me when Anges tries to win
a pink and fluffy unicorn. A big thank you
to the recreation center for always having
this event for the community and making
the library staff excited each year we
participate!
Pueblo of Isleta Hours &
Business Info:
Monday – Thursday: 8am to 6:30pm
Friday: 8am to 4:30pm
Saturday: 9am to 1pm
Sunday: CLOSED
Phone: 505.869.9808
Fax: 505.869.8119
Email: poi02002@isletapueblo.com

Page 10

Isleta Pueblo News

A Message from Isleta Tribal Court
Probate Matters

The Court would like to inform the community that it has overturned
previous rulings that placed a five-year statute of limitation in probate
matters. The Court believes that the five-year statute of limitation in
civil cases should not apply to probate matters because it puts parties
in a situation that prevents them from probating the estates of loved
ones and therefore unable to transfer property and resolve probate
matters.
Unpaid Fines, Fees and Obligations
Court records indicate that there are 97 individuals who have
outstanding fines and fees, and restitution that have not been paid. In
addition, there are 41 individuals who owe child support in amounts
ranging from $5,000 to $45,000, the balances of which continue to
increase as payments are not being made. On June 26, 2013, the
Tribal Council passed Resolution No. 2013-060A, which allowed the
withholding of per capita for unpaid housing payments, court fines, child
support, ditch dues, or incarceration bills for the first distribution held
in August. However, the Resolution does not allow any withholdings
from the second distribution in December. Therefore, the Court is not
ordering that distribution checks be withheld in December. But the
Court strongly urges individuals to use their per capita check to pay
their delinquent balances for fines or fees owed to the Court, especially
child support payments. Note: Please be advised that the Court will
continue to issue bench warrants for individuals who are past due in
paying fines, fees, child support and restitution.
Information Regarding Bonds and Refunds
When an individual is arrested the bond amount is set by the arresting
police officer based on the Pueblo of Isleta Bond Schedule. Bond
must be posted in order for the defendant to be released from jail.
The purpose of a bond is to ensure that the individual appears in court

PUBLIC NOTICE

SECOND NOTICE. A petition to Probate the
Estates of Ambrosio Abeita, deceased
on January 26, 1990, and Anita L. Abeita,
deceased on October 1, 1998, Case No. CV
– PR – 0068 – 2008, has been filed in the
Pueblo of Tribal Courts. Any person claiming
an interest in the Estate is hereby requested
to notify the Pueblo of Isleta Tribal Courts
within thirty (30) days from the date of this
notice being posted.
Claims must be filed in writing with the Isleta
Tribal Courts. If you have any questions,
please call the Tribal Court Clerk at (505) 869
– 9699.
A Petition to Probate the Estate of John Paul
Abeita, deceased on April 17, 1995, Case
No. CV – PR – 0509-2012, has been filed in
the Pueblo of Isleta Tribal Courts. Any person
claiming an interest in the Estate is hereby
requested to notify the Pueblo of Isleta Tribal
Court Clerk within thirty (30) days from the date
of this notice being posted. A hearing in this
matter has been scheduled for Wednesday,
January 15, 2014 at 11:00 AM.
Claims must be filed in writing with the Isleta
Tribal Courts. If you have any questions,
please contact the Tribal Court Clerk at (505)
869-9699.
A Petition to Probate the Estate of Rosalind
Montoya Cata, deceased on January 16,
2007, has been filed in the Pueblo of Isleta
Tribal Courts. Any person claiming an interest
in the Estate is hereby requested to notify
the Isleta Tribal Court Clerk. Within thirty
(30) days from the date of this notice being
posted.

November 2013

to address his/her charges. When bond is posted it is held until the
end of the case, which is usually when the defendant enters a plea
agreement or has a trial. If the bond is not posted immediately, the
defendant is arraigned in Court within forty-eight (48) hours.
At the time of arraignment the presiding Judge may keep the bond
at the same amount, lower the bond, or raise it depending on the
defendant's criminal history and the seriousness of the charge(s).
The bond is set as either a cash only bond or cash/surety. If it is
cash only, the total amount must be posted with the Tribal Court. If
the bond is cash/surety, 10% of the amount may be posted with a
bonding company or the Valencia County Detention Center (VCDC).
When bond is posted through a bonding company, a service fee is
imposed and the bonding company does not refund the bond at the
end of the case. If bond is posted with VCDC, the VCDC remits that
amount to the Court. Bond posted with either the Court or VCDC may
be refunded at the end of the case so long as the defendant appears
for all hearings. Fines, fees and court costs are deducted from the
bond and the balance is refunded to the individual who posted the
bond (not to the defendant) in the form of a check issued by the Tribal
Treasurer's Office. It takes approximately five to seven business days
for the Treasurer's Office to issue a bond refund check.
It is important to note that the individual who posts the bond risks
losing their bond money if the defendant fails to appear for a court
hearing. When a defendant does not appear in court the Judge issues
a bench warrant and forfeits the bond, which means the Court retains
the bond money. Then the Judge sets a new bond that must be posted
when the defendant is arrested on the bench warrant.
Tribal Court staff is available from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. to answer
any questions regarding court matters. Please call the Court at (505)
869-9699 or come to the front window for assistance.

Claims must be filed in writing with the Isleta
Tribal Courts. If you have any questions,
please call the Tribal Court Clerk at (505) 869
– 9699.
A Petition to Probate the Estate of Nick
Jaramillo, deceased on July 11, 1999, Case
No. CV – PR – 0818 – 2013, has been filed in
the Pueblo of Isleta Tribal Courts. Any person
claiming an interest in the Estate is hereby
requested to notify the Pueblo of Isleta Tribal
Court Clerk within thirty (30) thirty days from
the date of this notice being posted.
Claims must be filed in writing with the Isleta
Tribal Courts. If you have any questions,
please call the Tribal Court Clerk at (505) –
869 – 9699.
A Petition to Probate the Estate of Jose A.
Lente, deceased on April 19, 2005, Case
No. CV-PR-0630-2012, has been filed in the
Pueblo of Isleta Tribal Courts. Any Person
claiming an interest in the Estate is hereby
requested to notify the Pueblo of Isleta Tribal
Court Clerk within thirty (30) days from the
date of this posting. A hearing in this matter
has been scheduled for Wednesday, January
15, 2014, at 3:00 PM.
Claims must be filed in writing with the Isleta
Tribal Courts. If you have any questions,
please contact the Tribal Court Clerk at (505)
869-9699.
A Petition to Probate the Estate of Eva
Lucero, deceased on September 1, 2010,
Case No. CV-PR-0893-2013, has been filed
in the Pueblo of Isleta Tribal Courts. Any
person claiming an interest in the Estate
is hereby requested to notify the Pueblo of

Isleta Tribal Court Clerk within thirty (30) days
of this posting. A hearing on this matter has
been scheduled for, Wednesday, November
13, 2013
Claims must be filed in writing with the Isleta
Tribal Courts. If you have any questions,
please call the Tribal Court Clerk at (505)
869-9699.
A Petition to Probate the Estate of Miguel
(Mack) Lucero, deceased on July 9, 2003
Case No. PT-107-2007, has been filed in the
Pueblo of Isleta Tribal Courts. Any person
claiming an interest in the Estate is hereby
requested to notify the Pueblo of Isleta Tribal
Court Clerk within thirty (30) days from the
date this notice being posted. A hearing in this
matter has been scheduled for Wednesday,
February 5, 2014 at 9:00 AM.
Claims must be filed in writing with the Isleta
Tribal Courts. If you have any questions,
please call the Tribal Court Clerk at (505)
869-9699.
A Petition to Probate the Estate of Alvina
David Lucero, deceased on June 21, 2001,
Case No. PT-107-2007, has been filed in the
Pueblo of Isleta Tribal Courts. Any person
claiming an interest in the Estate is hereby
requested to notify the Pueblo of Isleta Tribal
Court Clerk within thirty (30) days from the date
of this notice being posted. A hearing on this
matter has been scheduled for Wednesday,
February 5, 2014 at 9:00 AM.
Claims must be filed in writing with the Isleta
Tribal Courts. If you have any questions,
please call the Tribal Court Clerk at (505)
869-9699.

November 2013
A Petition to Probate the Estate of Juana
Basista Marcum (Jiron), deceased on
September 20, 1993, Case No. PT – 004
- 09, has been filed in the Pueblo of Isleta
Tribal Courts. Any person claiming an interest
in the Estate is hereby requested to notify the
Pueblo of Isleta Tribal Court Clerk within thirty
(30) days from the date of this notice being
posted. A hearing on this matter has been
scheduled for Wednesday, January 15, 2014
at 10:00 AM.
Claims must be filed in writing with the Isleta
Tribal Courts. If you have any questions,
please call the Tribal Court Clerk at (505)
869-9699.
A Petition to Probate the Estate of Francis
P. Montoya, deceased May 8, 2011, Case
No. CV-PR-0862-2013, has been filed in the
Pueblo of Isleta Tribal Courts. Any person
claiming an interest in the Estate is hereby
requested to notify the Pueblo of Isleta Tribal
Court Clerk within thirty (30) days from the
date of this notice being posted. A hearing in
this matter has been scheduled for Monday,
February 3, 2014 at 2:30 PM.

Pueblo of Isleta
Veterans’ Association
It’s a slow continuous journey….and so
the POI Veterans Association (POIVA) is
“slowly, continuous to make progress”.
As you read this article, there should be in
Los Charcos, at the Richard Baker Field,
a portable building, which will be a part
of the Richard Baker Memorial Veterans’
Center….after the Association collects $2.5
million dollars…and plus the $188,000
capital outlay funds sitting somewhere in
Santa Fe….
And while we sit around waiting for “that
bird to fly in with the care package”, we will
continue to provide services to our fellow
veterans and their families.
If you are an honorably discharged veteran,
you may join the POIVA for a mere annual
fee of $10.00 per year… that’s less than
$0.85 per month. The next meeting is on
20 November 2013 at 6:00 PM. This time
we will be meeting at the Elderly Center,
where Rita Lujan, Elderly Center Director,
and her staff will provide information on a
grant that the Elderly Center received that
is for the purpose of providing assistance
to elderly veterans….and are you like 85%
(the other 15% don’t understand either)
of Americans, confused about all the new
health care insurance, or whatever it is
termed? Be at the next meeting, where
we will have special guest, Dr. Ron Lujan,
(Taos Pueblo), who will make a sincere
attempt to de-confuse you…and how all
this affects veterans.
Dr. Lujan will also provide info on another
confusing health issue that directly affects
veterans…the MOU between IHS and VA
Medical Centers.
For any questions, call Ulysses at 3071582.

Isleta Pueblo News
Claims must be submitted in writing with the
Pueblo of Isleta Tribal Courts. If you have any
questions, please call the Tribal Court Clerk
at (505) 869-9699.
A Petition to Probate the Estate of Jose F.
Montoya, deceased January 24, 1991, has
been filed with the Pueblo of Isleta Tribal
Courts. Any person claiming an interest in
the Estate is hereby requested to notify the
Pueblo of Isleta Tribal Court Clerk within thirty
(30) days from the date of this notice being
posted. A hearing in this matter has been
scheduled for Monday, February 3, 2014 at
1:30 PM.
Claims must be submitted in writing with the
Pueblo of Isleta Tribal Courts. If you have any
questions, please call the Tribal Court Clerk
at (505) 869 – 9699.
A Petition to Probate the Estate of Eileen
C. Trujillo, deceased October 16, 2010,
Case No. CV – PR – 0184 – 2010, has been
filed with the Pueblo of Isleta Tribal Courts.

Page 11

Any person claiming an interest in the Estate
is hereby requested to notify the Isleta Tribal
Court. Within thirty (30) days from the date
of this notice being posted. A hearing for this
matter has been scheduled for January 15,
2014 at 3:45 PM.
Claims must be submitted in writing with the
Pueblo of Isleta Tribal Courts. If you have any
questions, please contact the Isleta Tribal
Court Clerk at (505) 869 – 9699.
SECOND NOTICE. A Petition to Probate
the Estate of Emily Jojola, deceased on
January 2, 2008, Case No. CV – PR – 0065
– 2009, has been filed with the Pueblo of
Isleta Tribal Courts. Any person claiming an
interest in the Estate is hereby requested to
notify the Pueblo of Isleta Tribal Court Clerk
within thirty (30) days from the date this notice
being posted. A hearing on this matter has
been scheduled for Wednesday, December
22, 2013 at 9:30 AM.
Claims must be filed in writing with the Isleta
Tribal Courts. If you have any questions,
please call the Tribal Court Clerk at (505)
869-9699.

15th Annual VA/IHS Native American Veterans Symposium
Friday, November 8, 2013 ● 7:30am - 4:30pm ● Route 66 Casino Hotel
6:00 am - Cadence Run/Walk 1.5miles, meet in hotel lobby
Sponsored by the Albuquerque Area Indian Health Service, NM Veterans
Administration Healthcare System - hosted by the Pueblo of Laguna.
Purpose: To recognize and Honor the Military Service of Native Americans; and to orient
Veterans and their families on the benefits and programs available from the
Indian Health Service and the NMVA Healthcare system.
Thursday, November 7, 2013

6:00pm -7:00pm Presenters/Exhibitors briefing, Main Street Cafe
7:00-8:00pm Special Presentation “Laguna Marmon Brigade and the Protection of
the New Mexico Territory” Paguate Ballroom

For Registration contact Grace Baca at (505) 248-4600/4714
or by email: Grace.Baca@ihs.gov

Isleta Pueblo News

Page 12

November 2013

Parks & Recreation

As October 2013 comes to an end and we head toward the final two months of the year, we can honestly say that October was not only
very busy, but memorable as well. We started off the month with a Swim Meet for ages 6 years old on up that was very well attended.
We had a number of special events that took the children to places like McCall's Pumpkin Patch, Golf Lessons both at Isleta and
Albuquerque, It'z Family Fun Center, along with the Cross Country Team going to several different Pueblos for their competitive meets.
On a bitter sweet note, we had Eugene (Shoobie) Jojola leave our program after 13 years of working at Old Rec. Fitness facility. The
adults were also involved with Co-Ed Volleyball and several of our Tribal members represented the Pueblo of Isleta in the Albuquerque
Duke City Marathon. Also, we culminated the month with our Halloween Extravaganza which was once again very well attended by all
ages young and old.

Swim Meet

Shoobie Leaves the Rec. Program

Once again the Pueblo of Isleta was the host
site for a Developmental Swim Meet for ages
6 years old and up, which many of our tribal
members compete for the Tidal Wave Swim
Team, Los Lunas or Valencia High Schools. The
meet had a total of a 170 swimmers compete
and everybody really enjoyed our facilities and
the hard work the staff put on to ensure a very
well organized and safe event. As mentioned
earlier, the meet was very well attended by
many visitors and spectators as well. We have
our own Lifeguards (Kaitlyn Chavez, Kaitlin
Jaramillo, and Lindred Onsae) who are the
coaches of the TWST Club. Our very own
Fitness Specialist, Derrick Jiron has also been
assisting with training by putting the SWST
Team through some Cross Fitness training
that Coach Lindred Onsae says has helped the
team grow stronger in arm and leg strength
that helps a swimmer tremendously.

After thirteen (13) years of working
with the Old Rec. Program, running the
Summer Program for 4 & 5 year olds
and the afterschool program at Old Rec.,
Eugene (Shoobie) Jojola decided it was
time to leave the program and pursue
another avenue of working for the Pueblo
of Isleta Diabetes Prevention Program.
As he mentioned: "I hate to leave the
children's program, but I now have an
opportunity to make a little more money
and I have to think about trying to make
life easier on my family". He also added that he will miss all the little kids growing up
but he will stay involved wherever possible. On the bitter sweet note: "as the Director
for the Parks & Recreation Department, I have seen Shoobie grow as an individual
to the outstanding person he is today and we will sorely miss him. I do however
understand that he must continue to grow his base and do better for himself and
family. Congratulations Shoobie with your new job and new surroundings. Pictured
is Shoobie on the last day of his tenure with us as he spent his last day with several
of the kids in the program.

Golf Lessons
As of this month (October) the after school
children's program has begun taking Golf
Lessons with Professional Golfer, Marcus
Molina from the N.M. Golf Now Program.
The children have really taken to him and his
program's approach to teaching the children.
When we were first approached about this
program, which he teaches to the Bernalillo
County and Albuquerque Parks & Recreation
Programs, his goal is to teach children who
are interested in golf, and who may want to
pursue golf in High School and quite possibly
in College. He explained, especially to the
young girls, that so many of the College Scholarships go unfilled because not enough women
are pursuing golf as a sport. Pictured is Marcus Molina working with the children as he
explains the game of golf and proper etiquette prior to children learning proper grips and
swinging of the golf club.

Pumpkin Picking/Halloween Extravaganza
Once again the Pueblo of Isleta Parks and Recreation Department, through
the assistance of Pueblo descendent Dan Abeita, we the Pueblo of Isleta were
afforded the opportunity to pick approximately 5000 pumpkins from the John
Aday Ranch in Estancia, New Mexico free of charge. All the pumpkins picked
were given out on a first come first serve basis to our Pueblo residents. Several
of our residents used them for the pumpkin carving contest at the Halloween
Extravaganza.
Speaking of the Halloween Extravaganza, it was once again a huge success.
As Kimberly Chiwewe, Coordinator for the event put it, "as big as this event
has become, there is no way we could do what we did without the cooperation
of all the departments that actually got involved and came through with some
amazing booths and costumes. My hat goes out to all of them, (Department
of Education, Elderly-Assisted Living, MIS, Public Service Dept., Governor's
Office, Cultural Affairs, Human Services Departmeny, Social Services,
Library, Police Dept., Isleta Business Corporation, Treasury, and our Parks &
Recreation Dept.) and I thank them from the bottom of my heart because they
all came out unselfishly of themselves, especially on a Friday night and enjoyed
the evening with the whole community. A special evaluation and thank-you
luncheon will be held in honor of their participation. Pictured is a collage of
pictures from the Pumpkin Picking and the Halloween Extravaganza.

November 2013

Isleta Pueblo News

Page 13

Parks Division
As we now get into the fall season, the grass at our parks is no longer being cut twice
per week as in the busy summer growing season. This however has not diminished
the work that must be done to insure that we keep a top notch program in place.
Fertilization schedules are a must prior to winter setting in, basketball courts are
being patched and repainted and the over-all maintenance schedule is at a high point
removing dead leaves and branches along with
cleaning up all the weeds after a late rainy season.
Incidentally, the Parks and Recreation Department
has taken on a new responsibility in maintaining
the Roadways along our Pueblo of Isleta as well
as the new landscaping that was most recently
finished in front of the Tribal Complex but went
into disarray because of no one available to do the
daily maintenance which is a must, if it is to stay
healthy and looking good. Additionally, we will also
take over the maintenance of the whole Highway
47 landscaping project and the New Elderly Center
landscaping projects once they are both complete.
Pictured are three pictures: the first being of the
patch and paint work that is being done at the
Jose Lawrence Jojola/Celso Montoya Park in the
Village/Church Neighborhood. The 2nd is of the
park staff cleaning the weeds and erosion caused
by the recent flooding rains at the Highway 47
Streetscape in front of the Tribal Complex, and the
last is of a beautiful picture of the Robert David /
Fred Zuni Park in the Chical neighborhood after it
was fertilized and cleaned.

Duke City Marathon
The Albuquerque Duke City Marathon had several of our tribal members representing the Pueblo of Isleta Parks and Recreation
Department. Tribal Members Phillip Abeita ran the Full Marathon and came in 3nd place in his age category along with Alyssa
Jojola who came in 5th place in her age category. Other Tribal Members who competed and made us very proud representing us, were
Kendra Lente in the 10-K Run, Ashley Zuni in the 1/2 Marathon, Justine Aragon in the 10-K Run, Zerrick Ponder in the 10-K Run, and
Marcelina Anderson Zuni, Ryan Zuni, Ruben Lucero, Krystal Lucero, and Angela Zuni in the Co-ed Marathon Relay. Congrats. To all
of you for your dedicated service to your training. Great Job. Hopefully next year we can double our enrollment in the race. I
was hoping that we would have had a picture of all participants but due to time constraints we were not able to have one.

Page 14

WIC NOTES

Isleta Pueblo News

November 2013

Is Caffeine Safe during Pregnancy and Breastfeeding?

Many pregnant and breastfeeding women
are concerned about consuming too much
caffeine. Caffeine is found in coffee, tea,
some soft drinks, chocolate and some overthe-counter medications. Most research
shows that it is safe for both pregnant and
breastfeeding women to consume moderate
amounts of caffeine. Moderate caffeine
intake is considered to be about 300 mg/day.
This is typically about the same amount
that is found in two or three 8-ounce cups
of coffee or six cups of tea. Pregnant and
breastfeeding women don't have to give up
their morning cup of coffee, tea or soft drink.
However, if their usual coffee consumption
is more than two to three cups per day, it
would be wise to cut back.
Moderate caffeine consumption throughout
the entire pregnancy has not been shown to
increase the risk of birth defects. Although
the topic remains controversial, most
scientific research organizations conclude
that moderate caffeine consumption during
pregnancy does not increase the risk of
miscarriage. The March of Dimes takes a
more conservative approach, recommending
pregnant women limit caffeine consumption
to less than 200 mg/day.
Caffeine from foods and beverages becomes
part of a mother's breastmilk, but nursing
moms usually can consume small to
moderate amounts (200-300 mg/day, the
amount in two or three 8-ounce cups of
coffee) of caffeine without affecting their
baby. That said, every baby is different.
If your baby seems to become irritable,
jittery, or agitated when you have even a
small amount of caffeine you may want to
cut it out of your diet and see if it makes a

difference in your baby's behavior. Preterm
and younger newborn infants metabolize
caffeine very slowly so you may want to
consider keeping your caffeine intake to a
minimum during the early weeks of your
baby's life. After about 3 months of age
your baby will be better able to process
caffeine and excrete it from her system
more readily.
Is Alcohol Safe during Pregnancy

There is no data to support how much alcohol
is safe to during pregnancy, therefore, most
health care providers recommend drinking
no alcohol during pregnancy. Alcohol
consumption during pregnancy can cause
birth defects ranging from mild to severe.
Babies born to mothers who consumed
alcohol during pregnancy may suffer from
mental retardation, emotional, learning,
and behavior problems; and defects
involving the heart, face, and other organs.
Also women who may be pregnant or trying
to get pregnant should not drink alcohol.
Some women worry about having
consumed alcohol soon after conception,
before becoming aware of their pregnancy.
Generally, women should not worry if they
consumed small amount of alcohol during
this time. However, they should stop
drinking alcohol as soon as they find out
they are pregnant.
Is Alcohol Safe during Breastfeed
Breast-feeding and alcohol don't mix well.
There's no level of alcohol in breast milk
that's considered safe for a baby.
When you drink alcohol, it passes into your
breast milk. Although a breast-fed baby is
exposed to just a fraction of the alcohol his

or her mother drinks, a newborn eliminates
alcohol from his or her body at only half the
rate of an adult.
Research suggests that breast-fed babies
who are exposed to one drink a day might
have impaired motor development and that
alcohol can cause changes in sleep patterns.
Also, while folklore says that drinking
alcohol improves milk production; studies
show that alcohol actually decreases milk
production.
If you choose to drink, avoid breast-feeding
until alcohol has completely cleared your
breast milk. This typically takes two to
three hours for 12 ounces of 5 percent
beer, 5 ounces of 11 percent wine or 1.5 of
40 percent liquor, depending on your body
weight. If you plan to drink alcohol, consider
having a drink just after breast-feeding so
that the alcohol begins to clear your breast
milk during the natural interval between
breast-feeding sessions.
Pumping and dumping breast milk doesn't
speed the elimination of alcohol from your
body. However, if you'll be missing a breastfeeding session, pumping and dumping will
help you maintain your milk supply and
avoid engorgement.
Remember, breast-feeding is the optimal
way to feed a newborn and is recommended
until a baby is at least age 1. If you choose
to drink, plan carefully to avoid exposing
your baby to alcohol.
If you have questions on these or other
topics please contact our office.
Heidi Lanes, WIC Nutrition Coordinator

Pueblo of Isleta Johnson-O'Malley Program
Greetings! We hope that you all are doing
well and that you are enjoying the beautiful
colors of the fall leaves. We have been so
busy with everything that is occurring with
the JOM Program. We have a couple of new
JOM staff members on board as of today
and are awaiting the third member to join
us, hopefully soon! We would like to take
this time to introduce the newest additions
to the JOM family. We have Ms. Alena
Garcia who is the new Academic Coach and
Ms. Mellerie Abeita who is the new JOM
Administrative Assistant I:
My name is Alena "Shay-Pof" Garcia,
I am from Isleta. I am a graduate of
the University of New Mexico where I
received my undergraduate degree in
Finance. Upon graduation I moved to
Scottsdale, Arizona to work for a financial
firm. I obtained my Master's Degree in
Marketing from the University of Phoenix.
I moved back to New Mexico and decided
to pursue my Psychology degree with a
minor in family studies at the University
of New Mexico. I worked closely with
children and families as a Family
Advocate at a domestic violence shelter.
While working as a Family Advocate, I

was more determined to pursue a career
that allowed me to work with families.
I am currently enrolled at New Mexico
Highlands University pursuing my
Master's Degree in Counseling.
When I am not busy with school and in
pursuit of a fulfilling career you can often
find me participating in the fun runs
offered here in Isleta. Do not hesitate
to stop me to say, "hello"! I am happy to
answer any questions you may have.
And next we have Ms. Abeita:
Hello everyone, my name is Mellerie
Abeita and I am the new Administrative
Assistant for the JOM program. I am
known for previously working with
the Isleta Pueblo Census Department
as well as Isleta Pueblo Public Works
Department. I am a very driven individual
and I plan to build great success with all
events present and future. I am super
excited and look forward to working with
all of the students, parents, as well as
the school administrators. If there are
any questions I am always available so
please don't hesitate to give me a call or
come into see me.

These two ladies have done an exceptional
job familiarizing themselves with the ins
and outs of JOM. Now that we have the
Academic Coach with us we will begin
offering Tutorial services November 5.
Please remember this is not "homework"
help. Students will be required to attend
their scheduled tutorial times. Tutorial
services will be provided at the Department
of Education. Tutoring is offered:
TUESDAY & THURSDAY:
3:30 pm — 4:30 pm
4:30 pm — 5:30 pm
WEDNESDAY & FRIDAY:
3:30 pm — 4:30 pm
4:30 pm — 5:30 pm
Please contact Elena to sign your student
up for tutoring. You may contact her at
505-869-9810. We are working on the even
calendar for November and will be sending
notices out to our JOM families soon. If
you have a JOM eligible student and are
interested in services, please contact us for
more information.

November 2013

Isleta Pueblo News

Page 15

Page 16

Isleta Pueblo News

November 2013

---

Source: Frix Law Library, https://www.frixlaw.com/law-library/documents/tribal%3Apueblo_isleta%3A016deddacda73fa6. Public record. Not legal advice.
